This April we have another big month coming up in the Otley events calendar. First of all, of course, it’s Easter, which means it’s a four-day weekend with plenty of chance to get out and about (let’s hope the weather holds), but then we also have a range of gigs and other events around town…. And one (or more) of them definitely has your name on it.
Bridget’s back!
If you’re a big fan of Bridget, get Sunday April 6in your diary. Renée Zellweger and pals are back with Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy, and it’s one of the three films being shown for the April Film Club at popular bar The Rookery on Kirkgate. The other two films are Dog Man (U) and Flow (U). Entry is from just £3 with things kicking off at noon – there’ll be drinks and snacks available at the bar.
Magnificent Megson
Friday April 11 sees fab folksters Megson at the Courthouse with John Parker as their guest. Megson combine an infectious mix of heavenly vocals, lush harmonies and driving rhythmic guitars, and have gained a reputation not only for their arresting and intelligent songwriting, but also for their exquisite musicianship and northern humour. As Froots Magazine puts it “if you don’t like the music here then you have a problem”
Swing when you’re winning
Tapas and Tunes has another dine-with-music night also on Friday April 11 as the Big Easy Band bring an evening of classic swing to have as a side with your tapas. The music starts at 7pm and there’s no charge – except for what you order off the menu of course.
Bridging the gap to Cuba
If you like Cuban music you’re in for a treat on Friday April 18 when The Bridge: A Cuban Guitar Journey take to the Courthouse stage. Known as Cuba’s most internationally acclaimed guitar duo, Eduardo Martín and Ahmed Dickinson transform their concerts into spiritual and soothing performances. This is one you don’t want to miss.
Sold out comedy
It’s sold out but you may be able to grab a return if you’re lucky to see TV stand-up Geoff Norcott try out some of his new material on Friday April 25 at the Courthouse. As a rare right-winger, Geoff Norcott is a unique voice in British comedy. Having appeared on Live at the Apollo, Mash Report, Mock the Week and Question Time, he’s built up a significant live following with sell-out Edinburgh runs and two national tours.
Brass from the Bridge
Saturday April 26 sees a concert by Hebden Bridge Brass Band in aid of the Hollybush Project for Adults with Learning Disability. It’s taking place at the Bridge Church from 7pm and tickets cost £10 each.
Find your yoga sanctuary
Get a full day of holistic healing on Saturday April 26th at Sancta Bookshop and Café with their Spring yoga day hosted by Yoga With Danya. Starting at 10am and finishing at 3.45pm, the event includes three hours of yoga, lunch, and a meditative walk by the Wharfe.
Celebrated psychic medium
With over 30 years of experience, Peter Dykes is a celebrated psychic medium, who’ll be bringing a wealth of knowledge and deep insight to the stage of The Rookery on Tuesday April 29. Will he have a connection for you? The only way to find out is to head to the performance and find out!
This month’s farmers’ markets
As ever we have two Farmers’ Markets this month – one on Sunday April 13, the other on Sunday April 27. Head down for local produce from 9am to 1pm. The second date also sees the ever-popular Craft Fair return to the Courthouse. It starts an hour later and finishes at the same time!
For details of these and other events, see https://www.visitotley.co.uk/whats-on/calendar/