Hastings Whats On Listings - Alphabetically ordered Hastings events

An Acoustic Round

Critically acclaimed singer-songwriters Jamie Lawson, Gemma Hayes, Richard Walters and Laura Zocca join forces for a special acoustic round show, unlike any other gig you will go to next year. Each artist will perform a song, followed by the next act, the show will move around from artist to artist, like a tag team of traditional signing troubadours! The show will feature well known folk & acoustic pop songs to sing along to plus original brand new music from each of the acts.

Jamie Lawson was the first signing to Ed Sheeran’s label Gingerbread Man Records in 2015. That same year he released his self-titled third album, featuring the international hit Wasn’t Expecting That, which has to this day been streamed over 250 million times. The album hit #1 in 26 countries. Since then, Jamie has won an Ivor Novello Award for ‘Best Song Musically and Lyrically’, gone on a stadium tour with Ed Sheeran playing 52 dates throughout Europe and continued to tour extensively, most recently as support on the critically acclaimed Deacon Blue UK Tour.

Gemma Hayes is a highly respected Irish singer songwriter. Her debut album, Night On My Side, was released in 2002, for which she won Best Female Artist at the Hot Press Awards and a Mercury Prize nomination. Since then she has released 4 studio albums and a limited-edition live album. Gemma is constantly in demand for film and tv placements – her version of Chris Isaak’s Wicked Game, recorded for the US TV series Pretty Little Liars, is now close to 18 million streams on Spotify alone. Gemma is currently working on a new album and will be showcasing some of her brilliant new songs on the Acoustic Round Tour.

Richard Walters has released five critically acclaimed albums and four EP's since 2007. His music has featured on a number of hit TV shows including; Grey's Anatomy, Tin Star and CSI: Miami. As a songwriter and collaborator Richard has worked with Grammy winner Joe Henry, British icon Alison Moyet & Oscar nominated actress and singer Florence Pugh. Richard is also one third of the Decca/ Mercury KX signed band LYR, often compared to the mighty Sigur Ros, with current poet Laureate Simon Armitage and Patrick Pearson. Collectively, his work has amassed over 100 million streams.

Laura Zocca is a 26 year old singer songwriter originally from London. She began making music at the age of 14 and started gathering a following via YouTube and Soundcloud. Posting both covers and original songs she has since accumulated a phenomenal 40+ million combined streams.

24 May at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Al Murray: Landlord of Hope and Glory

A brand new show from everyone's favourite bigoted landlord, Al Murray, star of Happy Hour. Please only cheer at the irony and stay in your house if you actually hate the French.

5 Nov at The White Rock Theatre, Hastings

Al Stewart

The Glasgow-born singer-songwriter performs acoustic versions of his back catalogue.

25 Oct at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Alabaster dePlume

London and Manchester-based spoken word artist, writer and saxophonist Angus Fairbairn, who goes by the name Alabaster dePlume.

15 Sep at Marina Fountain Pub, St Leonards

Aladdin

After a long time away from the theatre, students from HSCD lower school are stepping back on stage to present to you their own version of 'Aladdin'. Dances will be based on their own interoperation of characters, songs and scenes in the film Aladdin. Music will be a mix from both the live action film and other artists in keeping with the theme. Students aged 3-10 will be performing in contemporary, acrobatic arts and ballet.

21 May at The Izzard Theatre, Bexhill-on-Sea

Christmas with Aled Jones & Russell Watson

Two of the world’s greatest classical voices, Aled Jones and Russell Watson, reunite for Christmas 2022 with a brand-new album. Performing together again following a three-year hiatus, the powerhouse duo will also embark on a colossal UK tour this November and December.

The duo will record the album later this year and will be produced by long term collaborator Ian Tilley. The album is also set to feature a very special rendition of Walking In The Air - released by then boy soprano Aled in 1985 - the duo will record this iconic track together, especially for the album.

Aled Jones comments, “After a crazy couple of years for us all, I can’t wait to be reunited with my mate Russell again for our third album together! I’ll always be associated with Christmas, so it’s an honour to be working with him. We always have a blast on tour, so getting to sing our favourite Christmas songs together in so many stunning venues later this year will be a real treat! You never know, Traffic Cone might even make an appearance…and hopefully Chicago has given Russ the chance to brush up on his dancing skills!”

Russell Watson adds, “Aled and I had a great time recording our first two albums, so I’m immensely excited to be back in the studio together working on our third. We had a really tough time choosing from so many magnificent Christmas songs, but we’ve whittled it down to a fabulous selection of tracks which truly mean something to us both. And to get to share a stage again during our UK tour later this year will be such a special experience after three years apart. I hope Christmas With Aled and Russell is on all of your Christmas lists, and I can’t wait to see you all on tour throughout November and December!”

Christmas With Aled and Russell succeeds their first two albums, 2018’s In Harmony and 2019’s Back In Harmony, both of which shot straight to #1 on the UK Classical Album Chart and the top 10 of the UK Official Album Charts upon release.

Two of the nation's most treasured artists, Aled and Russell have achieved tremendous successes between them, from prestigious awards to record-breaking chart sales.

27 Nov at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Amelia White and Robbie Cavanagh

As a songwriter, I feel obliged to tell the stories that are coming through in the air to me in my world, whether it's personal or political or both. The antenna is always on. Amelia White

The East Nashville legend returns to the UK with stunning songs from her new Kim Richey-produced record Love I Swore. A critically acclaimed favourite of Bob Harris, BBC, NPR, Rolling Stone and others, White's previous honours include a year-end Top 10 record pick by the Daily Telegraph. There's some great songwriting on this. Check it out, you will NOT be disappointed Ralph McLean BBC Radio Ulster.
This is the real deal, full of juicy tunes the woman just oozes cool. With an album as good as this, it's truly an appointment not to be missed, a chance to see East Nashville's finest at the top of her game. Take it Americana UK

Though his latest record To Leave/To Be Left has received high praise, it's Robbie Cavanagh's live performance that has really turned heads and attracted much deserved attention. Stepping out on stage with a guitar over his shoulder and a well-earned confidence in his chest, Robbie can hardly open his mouth without also opening his heart. Sincere and wonderful Bob Harris BBC Radio 2

8 Jul at Kino-Teatr, St. Leonards-on-Sea

Antony & Cleopatra

Antony & Cleopatra was first shortlisted as the Bowler Crab autumn production for 2015 and then was postponed during the pandemic in both 2020 and 2021! Now, finally, at long last, we present this historical tragedy which combines the story of a tragic romance with the hard hitting reality of war. This defiant love story reshaped the Roman Empire as one of history's most shocking couples deliver a satisfying mix of relatable comedy and gut-wrenching pathos. Whilst not the most performed of Shakespeare's Tragedies, this powerful play boasts a glance into the true state of the human condition regardless of the era. A full tour indoors and open air across the 1066 area summer 2022.

3 Jun–19 Jun at Half House Farm, Three Oaks

Antony & Cleopatra

Antony & Cleopatra was first shortlisted as the autumn production for 2015 and then was postponed during the pandemic in both 2020 and 2021! Now, finally, at long last, we present this historical tragedy which combines the story of a tragic romance with the hard hitting reality of war. This defiant love story reshaped the Roman Empire as one of history's most shocking couples deliver a satisfying mix of relatable comedy and gut-wrenching pathos. Whilst not the most performed of Shakespeare's Tragedies, this powerful play boasts a glance into the true state of the human condition regardless of the era. A full tour indoors and open air across the 1066 area summer 2022.

1 Jun at Battle Abbey Senior School, Battle

Antony & Cleopatra

12 Jun at Manor Barn, Bexhill-on-Sea

Antony and Cleopatra

The Bowler Crab Theatre Company has soared leaps and bounds since its founding 7 years ago, producing 20 Shakespeare projects touring across the UK!

Eagerly anticipated by fans, Antony & Cleopatra has been on BC’s shortlist since designs were drawn up back in 2014! BC is the resident theatre company of Half House Farm (C16th performance venue in Three Oaks) and The Mermaid Inn (600 year old inn situated in Rye, historically famous for a visit from Shakespeare’s company in 1597).

Ten years after the assassination of Julius Caesar, Marcus Antony rules a third of the empire alongside Octavian Caesar and Lepidus; but how long can the peace last when Antony leaves Rome for his lover Cleopatra, the enigmatic Queen of Egypt and widow of Julius? Entangled in a web of responsibilities, Antony ignores his duties, the call of Rome and the ever-increasing gossip in this dark romantic Tragedy. Chiefly concerned with the relationship between the titular characters, this epic historical love story takes a good hard look at romance under pressure, as the lovers’ gritty relationship is laced with lust, manipulation and betrayals that spell war for Rome and Egypt…

On their mission to complete the Shakespeare Canon, BC are proud to produce one of The Bard’s most renowned pieces; one that blends the thrill of romance, the rush of comedy, the truth of history and, ultimately, the horror of tragedy. This production has been cut down to approximately 2 ½ hrs (excluding the interval) and features Shakespeare’s original Jacobean writing style and language with a ‘heightened-historical’ costume concept.

3 Jun, 4 Jun, 5 Jun, 10 Jun, 11 Jun, 17 Jun, 18 Jun, 19 Jun at Bowler Crab Theatre Company, Hastings

12 Jun at Manor Barn, Bexhill-on-Sea

1 Jun at Battle Abbey, Battle

Are You Being Served?

Lovers of innuendo and British humor, Flying Circus fans and seekers of laughs - look no further than this uproarious play.

To the delight of fans everywhere, this popular British television comedy is now a stage show that revels in nonstop double entendres. When the motley crew of the Grace Brothers department store prepare for a sale of German goods and then depart for a staff holiday in Spain, they survive their stay in the tropics at a one star establishment and their encounters with everything from a Spanish crumpet to randy revolutionaries with everything intact but their modesty.

3 Aug, 4 Aug, 5 Aug, 6 Aug, 9 Aug, 10 Aug, 11 Aug, 12 Aug, 6 Aug at The Blods Little Theatre, Bexhill-on-sea

As You Like It

As You Like It is a delightful Comedy with poetry, song, dance and mistaken identity as a young woman, Rosalind, must hide from the law and does so in the Forest of Arden disguised as a man named Ganymede; but what befuddlement will occur when the man of her dreams, Orlando, begins to ask Ganymede for advice on how to woo Rosalind? Throw in three other problematic pairs of lovers and you end up with quite the visit to the woods! Laughter and wit lace this passionate comedy which questions gender roles, argues the importance of happiness and explores the pursuits of love. A full tour indoors and open air across the 1066 area along with festivals summer 2022.

31 Jul at Manor Barn, Bexhill-on-Sea

As You Like It

24 Jul–14 Aug at Half House Farm, Three Oaks

As You Like It

7 Aug at Battle Abbey, Battle

Austerity All-dayer 2

Following the success of the austerity all-dayer last year, austerity records return to The Piper in St. Leonards with their second all-day event on Saturday, May 28th. Featuring eight of the best new bands around, including Office for Personal Development, Winter Gardens, SNAYX, LibraLibra. This is an 18+ event .

28 May at The Piper, Saint Leonards

Awesome Alfie's Jubilee Kids Disco

Facepainting, Disco Dancing, Sweets, Ice Cream & Slush at the biggest kids event in town!! Join Awesome Alfie & his 'Wriggles & Giggles' sidekick Fran! for some Jubilee Celebration FUN!! Prizes for the best Fancy Dress Princess & Super Hero!!

1 Jun at Hastings Pier, Hastings

babyballet® Show - Twinkle & Teddys Dream

babyballet® stars return to The Izzard Theatre for their stage!

Be ready to be dazzled and entertained by our adorable 3 & 4 years olds who have danced so beautifully in classes learning their show numbers. The show promises to be a wonderfully entertaining day for not only the children that will be performing on stage, but for family and friends that come to watch.

For a lot of our little stars this will be their first performance so we want to make it one you and they will never forget!

12 Jun at The Izzard Theatre, Bexhill-on-Sea

babyballet® Show - Twinkles Dream

babyballet® stars return to The Izzard Theatre for their stage!

For a lot of our little stars this will be their first performance so we want to make it one you and they will never forget!

12 Jun at The Izzard Theatre, Bexhill-on-Sea

The Battle of Hastings

The one and only Battle of Hastings re-enactment returns for 2022. Taking place on the very spot where King Harold and Duke William fought in 1066, don’t miss over 500 reenactors recreating the drama and intensity of this legendary conflict.

15 Oct–16 Oct at English Heritage: 1066 Battle Of Hastings, Abbey And Battlefield, Battle

Ben Portsmouth: Elvis – The King is Back

Ben Portsmouth -The World’s Number One Elvis Tribute Artist.

Ben, a multi-talented musician, singer and songwriter had Elvis's DNA in his blood from an early age. His father was an avid Elvis fan and Ben grew up on a diet of Elvis songs. He looks like Elvis, sings like Elvis and has an on-stage charisma that has audiences believing at times they are watching the King himself.

In August 2012, Ben made history when he won the Elvis Presley Enterprises “Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest which took place in Memphis, crowning Ben as the “Worldwide Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist”, the first artist from outside the USA to ever win this prestigious title.

Internationally renowned as one, if not The Best Elvis Tribute in the world today, Ben Portsmouth will bring his unique style and charisma and will show audiences why he is regarded as the best in the business.

25 Jun at The White Rock Theatre, Hastings

Beth Nielsen Chapman

Highly rated Americana singer/songwriter who has penned hits for the likes of Trisha Yearwood and Willie Nelson.

29 Oct at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

The Blues Band

The Blues Band line-up of Paul Jones, Dave Kelly, Rob Townsend, Gary Fletcher and Tom McGuiness continues to pay tribute to the blues and R&B boom which inspired them to pick up their instruments in the first place.

17 Jun at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

The Bug Club

The Bug Club’s name does a good job of introducing the band and their music: a tight-knit, collaborative effort focussed on telling tales of the everyday that we often take for granted, shot through with humour and riffs-a-plenty.

29 Oct at The Piper, Saint Leonards

Coffee Concert: Adrien Brandeis - Parisien Jazz

19 Jun at Kino-Teatr, St. Leonards-on-Sea

Coffee Concert: Alexander Metcalfe

24 Jul at Kino-Teatr, St. Leonards-on-Sea

Coffee Concert: Jane Gordon & Anna Smith

26 Jun at Kino-Teatr, St. Leonards-on-Sea

Coffee Concert: Tomás Matos

3 Jul at Kino-Teatr, St. Leonards-on-Sea

Crypt Hastings

The Biggest Nightlife Reunion in Hastings Combined all the Nightlife of the 60s 70s 80s 90s under one roof SCALLIWAGS - SATURDAY’S - JR’S - RENNIES - DENNIES - FLAMINGOS - CRYPT Just a few as so many to list back in the good old day’s

23 Sep at Grand Elektra, Hastings

Dave Gorman: Powerpoint to the People

Dave Gorman, the man behind Dave TV’s hit show Modern Life Is Goodish as well as Are You Dave Gorman? and Googlewhack Adventure, is back on the road with a brand new live show, Powerpoint To The People

The ‘high priest of the comedy Powerpoint talk’ (The Times) is touring again – as much as anything to demonstrate that a powerpoint presentation doesn’t have to involve a man in a grey suit standing behind a lectern and saying ‘next slide please’. We’ve all had enough of that, so let’s put it all behind us and never speak of it again – there are far more important things to analyse. Well… they’re more important in Dave’s head anyway.

24 Sep at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

David Bramwell - The Haunted Moustache

1 Jun at Kino-Teatr, St. Leonards-on-Sea

David Ford And Annie Dressner - The Summer Holiday Tour

David Ford and Annie Dressner started their musical collaboration in early 2022. But listening to the blend of their voices and their timeless songwriting, youd be forgiven for thinking they had been making music together forever. This summer they take to the road in support of debut release, 48 hours, a record named after the two-day burst of creativity that was its origin.

Annie Dressner was born and raised in New York City where she recorded the first of three acclaimed albums. Annie's heartfelt, confessional writing style and honest vocal delivery have won her supporters at BBC Radio 2 and 6Music and secured numerous festival appearances.

David Ford is an award-winning songwriter and has been hailed by The Guardian as one of Britain's finest live performers. His 2022 solo album May You Live in Interesting Times was album of the week in both The Daily Telegraph and The Sunday Times.

Annie and David decided their first tour together should be something entirely different to the well-worn track beaten by troubadours down the motorways of Britain to the dark and pungent back-rooms of major cities. Drawn to the atmosphere and intimacy of small theatres and the romance of seaside towns, David Ford and Annie Dressner present a unique evening of song. A collection of tender musical moments arranged for the stage.

9 Jul at Electric Palace, Hastings

Dead Kennedys

The Dead Kennedys have always merged revolutionary politics with hardcore punk and, in the process, became one of the defining hardcore bands. Often, they were more notable for their politics than their music, but that was part of their impact. More inspired by British punk and the fiery, revolutionary power of the S*x Pistols than the artier tendencies of New York punk rockers. Now they're back and spreading their own message in 2019. This is a 14+ event.

17 May at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Dirty DC: AC/DC Tribute

Tribute band who have been playing throughout the UK and Europe since 1998.

19 Aug at The White Rock Theatre, Hastings

The Doors Alive

Tribute to Jim Morrison's seminal LA rock crew. Expect renditions of classic hits such as 'Light My Fire', 'When the Music's Over' and 'Riders on the Storm'. The band recreate the sounds of the 60s using the same instruments that the Doors used in their heyday, including a Gibson G101, the Fender Rhodes Bass and a vintage Gibson S.G Guitar.

20 May at The White Rock Theatre, Hastings

Dr Hook

Dr Hook were on the international charts, whether it was in the pop, rock or country categories, for the fifteen years the band was together and continue to top the charts today with releases such as their latest double disc set, Timeless from Universal Music.

After years out of the limelight, Dr Hook is now back on the road, fronted once again by Dennis Locorriere, the man who originally sang all the songs you remember and still love, presented in an evening of not only great music, but one that also brings to audiences all the fun and humour that was synonymous with the band.

Locorriere is the voice of such classics as 'Sylvia's Mother', 'Only 16', 'A Little Bit More', 'If Not You', 'Sharing The Night Together', 'Sexy Eyes', 'When You're In Love With A Beautiful Woman', 'Years From Now' and so many more.

28 Oct at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Ed Byrne: If I'm Honest

Join Ed as he takes a long hard look at himself and tries to decide if he has any traits that are worth passing on to his children.

Ed Byrne presents his brand-new masterclass in observational comedy hot on the heels of his 17/18 Touring hit, Spoiler Alert!

A TV household name, in the past year Ed has appeared on Live At The Apollo (Host, BBC), Mock The Week (BBC), The Pilgrimage (BBC), Top Gear (BBC) and QI (BBC).

18 May at The White Rock Theatre, Hastings

Eternal Triangle: Trevor Watts, Veryan Weston & Jamie Harris

20 May at Kino-Teatr, St. Leonards-on-Sea

An Evening with David Sedaris

Writer, humorist and wit, brimming with sardonic social observations.

19 Jul at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

An Evening With Simon & Oscar (Ocean Colour Scene)

In 2015 Ocean Colour Scene celebrated their 25th Anniversary with a sell-out acoustic tour of some of the most prestigious UK Concert Halls,  it was not only their most successful for 15 years, but also their best received, with ecstatic audience reactions every night.

Simon and Oscar are continuing the theme in 2022 with a tour of intimate seated venues, the perfect stages for their acoustic performances of all the big hits and anthems, including The Riverboat Song, The Circle, Traveller’s Tune, Hundred Mile High City and The Day We Caught The Train. These shows are the latest chapter in a remarkable career that’s seen OCS rise from Breton shirt-wearing Stone Roses disciples to one of Britpop’s biggest bands (their 1998 arena tour was the biggest by any UK group that year). In their 30 years together, they’ve enjoyed five Top 10 albums, six Top 10 singles and a mantelpiece full of awards. But behind all the swagger and the style were great songs, with words and melodies that found their way into your head and heart. It’s time to hear these songs again, stripped back but every bit as brilliant.

26 May at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Fabio & Grooverider & The Outlook Orchestra

After the unbelievable show at London's Southbank Centre earlier this year the Godfather’s of the scene Fabio & Grooverider re-join The Outlook Orchestra to celebrate a History of Jungle and Drum & Bass, featuring some of the scenes most iconic and well loved tracks!

28 Aug at Hastings Pier, Hastings

Falling For Figaro

25 May, 25 May at Kino-Teatr, St. Leonards-on-Sea

The Feeling

Unfairly maligned 'soft rock archaeologists' doing a sterling pop job of resurrecting the extreme tunefulness of ELO, 10cc and the like.

30 Oct at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Fisherman's Friends

A nine-man shanty folk group drawing on 200 years of traditional vocal repertoire.

2 Dec at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Flaming Lips

The Flaming Lips bring their cosmic eccentric live show, furry animals and fake blood back to the UK.

1 Jun at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Forever Sabbath: Black Sabbath Tribute

Tribute act performing the best-known numbers of the heavy metal pioneers.

3 Sep at The Crypt, Hastings

From Gold To Rio - The Best Of Spandau Ballet & Duran Duran

From Gold To Rio – The Greatest Hits Of Spandau Ballet & Duran Duarn Two Of The Uk's Most Iconic Bands Will Be Brought To Life In One Power Packed Show! From Gold To Rio Will Take You On A Nostalgic Journey Back To The New Romantic Era Which Ruled The Charts For Over A Decade. For The Very First Time The Music From Two Of The Uk's Most Iconic Bands Will Be Celebrated In One Power Packed Show! With Over 20 Top 10 Hits, The Show Will Feature 2 Hours Of Non-Stop, Classics Including Gold, Rio, True, The Reflex, Through The Barricades, Save A Prayer, Lifeline, Girls On Film, To Name A Few, Guaranteed To Leave The Audience Shouting For More! Performed By A Full 8 Piece Live Band With Over 30 Years Professional Experience, This Show Features Excellent Vocals, Tight Harmonies, A Powerhouse Rhythm Section And An Infectious Sense Of Fun. Chris Clark Who Portrays Simon Le Bon Has Been A Professional Musician For Nearly 20 Years. Bearing A Striking Likeness To Simon He Is Also A Fabulous 'sound-Alike'. Lee James Is Widely Recognised As The Most Authentic Performer To Tony Hadley, Playing Across The Uk And Europe For Over 10 Years. Lee Has Performed With Tony On Various Occasions, Including Bbc's The One Show And Is Endorsed By Gary Kemp And Tony Himself. Martin Kemp When Seeing A Picture Of Lee On Facebook Commented 'you Got It Dude!' High Praise Indeed!!

27 Jan at The White Rock Theatre, Hastings

From the Jam

The Jam exploded onto the punk scene in 1977 and became the sound of the British youth and one of the greatest and biggest selling bands in British history. From The Jam have gained a reputation for the kind of incendiary live performances that sealed the reputation of The Jam all those years ago. Expect to hear classic The Jam hits such as 'Down In The Tube Station At Midnight', 'Going Underground', 'Town Called Malice' and 'The Modern World' as well as some live favourites and songs from Bruce’s solo career.

17 Jun at The White Rock Theatre, Hastings

Gary Delaney: Gary In Punderland

Get ready to dive into a rabbit hole of the best jokes in the world - star of Live at the Apollo and sell-out sensation Gary Delaney is back! One of the most sought after joke writers in the country and longstanding Mock the Week special guest, Gary has been through the laughing glass and he's ready to bring you a brand new show with hit after hit of the kind of one-liners only a master could craft. If you're hunting for snark, Gary's got it covered!

29 Jul at The White Rock Theatre, Hastings

Geno Washington and The Ram Jam Band

The 60s soul legend and trained hypnotist is back, with his trusty Ram Jam Band.

25 Jun • Cancelled at St Mary in the Castle, Hastings

Go West & Paul Young

Hitting the road on a double bill tour, these two heavyweight chart toppers will be performing all their hits on a bumper bill of nostalgic pop!

Celebrating 35 years, Go West were one of the most successful singer/songwriter duos of the 80’s. Formed in 1982 by Peter Cox and Richard Drummie, With Cox as lead singer and Drummie on guitar and backing vocals they produced hits such as ‘We Close Our Eyes’, ‘Call Me’ and “Don’t Look Down’ . Go West were voted ‘Best Newcomer’ at the 1986 Brit Awards. In 1990 their track ‘King of Wishful Thinking’ featured on the hugely successful soundtrack for the blockbuster smash Pretty Woman, starring Julia Roberts & Richard Gere.

Originally in the band Q-Tips, Paul Young went solo in the 80’s and his career took off with the seminal album ‘No Parlez’ and so many subsequent top 10 hits such as “Wherever I Lay My Hat”, which hit the number 1 slot in 1983 ‘Love of The Common People’ a current austerity anthem, ‘Everytime You Go Away’ & ‘Everything Must Change’. He is also a Brit Award winner for Best Male vocalist, sings the opening lines on the original Band Aid Single ‘Feed The World’ and performed at Live Aid in 1984. Paul is a keen chef, biker and fan of all things Mexicana! A family man, always happy to be touring his classic hits as a solo artist or with his Tex Mex/ Americana band ‘Los Pacaminos’

19 May at The White Rock Theatre, Hastings

The Gold Rush with live piano accompaniment by Mike Hatchard

12 Jun at Kino-Teatr, St. Leonards-on-Sea

Grant-Lee Phillips

Folk-rock from the former Grant Lee Buffalo singer and multi-instrumentalist.

8 Dec at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Gretchen Peters

Americana from the Nashville singer-songwriter.

21 May at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Halloween Half Term

Gather your little monsters for a ghoulishly good day out at Battle Abbey this half term.

22 Oct–30 Oct at English Heritage: 1066 Battle Of Hastings, Abbey And Battlefield, Battle

Harry Hill: Pedigree Fun!

Harry is back with brand-new amazing jokes in an all-singing, all-dancing one-man spectacular. “I hadn’t realised how much I missed performing live until lockdown stopped me from doing it,” says Harry, “It’s great to be going back on stage and the good news is I am planning a very silly show.”

Audiences will meet Harry’s new baby elephant, Sarah, and Ian, The Information Worm.

7 Oct at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Hastings Reggae Festival 2022

The biggest family-friendly Reggae Festival returns this Summer at The Oval, Hastings on 30th July 2022. Sunshine, an incredible line up, good vibes, great food and perfect for the family. Does that sound too good to believe? Well, maybe we can’t promise sunshine but the rest, we’ve got you sorted. Hastings Reggae Festival returns this Summer on 30th July 2022 for the biggest family fun show in town, guaranteed to get the whole family smiling! Our show last year sold out and for good reason. You can expect an abundance of authentic Caribbean food stalls, plenty of bars and a truly magical fairground for the kids (and one for the adults!). Situated in Hasting’s The Oval, this is the largest outdoor event space in the area and is a short walk from Hastings mainline station, with direct links to London and Brighton. The Oval is within the vicinity of the award-winning Pier, the Seafront, and the Old Town. Gracing the stage, are the mighty UB40 featuring Ali Campbell. The Birmingham born reggae pop band formed in 1978, rising to meteoric levels in the 80s with the legendary tracks Red Red Wine, Kingston Town and Can’t Help Falling in Love. UB40 are a global powerhouse, winning the 1985 NME Award for Best Reggae Act, being nominated for the Grammy Award four times, and releasing over 50 singles in the UK charts. All weaved together by UB40’s incredible lead singer Ali Campbell, performing live at the festival. UB40’s show will be in memory of former member Astro, who sadly passed away in November 2021. South-East London reggae band, The Dualers will be bring those feel-good reggae beats to the show. Formed in the mid-90s, the group are known for their tunes Don’t Go and Kiss On the Lips and have gone on to produce solid releases Red Light The renowned Collie Buddz, Bermudian reggae and dancehall singer, songwriter and producer joins us on 30th July, known for his hit tunes Love & Reggae, Come Around and Mamacita, Collie Buddz is guaranteed to get you jammin’ all day long. All joined by Sister Nancy, Hollie Cook, Reggae Roast and The Marley Revival, bringing you a soulful reggae and roots experience. We can’t wait to welcome you and the family to Hasting Reggae Festival on 30th July 2022 All ticket holders under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

30 Jul at The Oval, Hastings

Holiday Ghosts

Acid Box Promotions are pleased to bring you rock and roll kids Holiday Ghosts.

Holiday Ghosts / PNKSLM Recordings
Holiday Ghosts is a 4 piece Rock 'n' Roll group, from the small town of Falmouth and now based in Brighton.
Starting as a solo project of Sam Stacpoole, of the The Black Tambourines, it has existed and evolved in the space between that band and running his studio since 2012. It is now a full collaboration between Sam, his girlfriend Katja Rackin, Ryan Cleave and Charlie Fairbairn. Not just another product of the burgeoning DIY and garage rock scene in Falmouth, Holiday Ghosts have self recorded all their own material, set up D.I.Y gigs and developed a sound of their own rooted in their love of bands such as The Velvet Underground, Modern Lovers, The Clean e.t.c.

Their debut album was released by the Swedish label PNKSLM records in September 2017 and another is in the works already.

Wax Machine
From an explosive 7-piece into a refined 4-piece, Wax Machine have once again morphed into a new force. With quiet skill, the Wax Machine vibe will engulf the venue and wrap us all in an other-worldly cocoon of elegance and mysticism.

B. Spanks
Brighton via Falmouth, Jangly garage rock.

26 Aug at The Piper, Saint Leonards

The House Of House Presents: Bushwacka

A stalwart on the House and Tech House scene since 1988, The House Of House are delighted to bring the legend that is Bushwacka! down to the rather amazing Marina Fountain! Following sold out gigs with Ashley Beedle and Mr.C at the same venue, the HOH crew bring you yet another sure fire winner of a night in an intimate 150 Capacaity venue with an incredible soundsystem that belies its size! Support from Shrunken Shadows, DanM and Altitude 360 B2B2B. Friday 17th June, 8pm - 1am.

17 Jun at Marina Fountain Pub, St Leonards

House'd Hastings Weekender - Night

House'D is back in Hastings and once again we start the weekend off at The Crypt on Friday 24th June from 10pm - 4am As usual a fully loaded line up bringing you the best upfront Tech , deep and vocal House , we know how to throw a party The Lads from the incredible Londance Parties - AnDD & Jake Power will be going B2B as we welcome them back to the Crypt , Ex Ministry of Sound Resident and insanely talented DJ and Producer Rubedo Walker will also be joining the party with Local legends Grant James , DJ Birdy and Lee Piper completing the crew Not one to miss , last time we were here it went off , dont suffer FOMO Early Bird Tickets only £4 plus BF Then if one event isn't enough we are throwing the Day Party at the Comet on Saturday 25th June from 12pm , check out the separate event

24 Jun–25 Jun at Grand Elektra, Hastings

Jah Shaka

Jah Shaka is one of the most important roots reggae and dub artists. He's a composer, musician, singer, mixing engineer, producer, record label owner, and the operator of the heaviest roots/dub sound system in the world!

25 Jun at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Jamie Lawson

The English singer-songwriter performs his pop originals.

24 May • Cancelled at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Jason Manford: Like Me

He’s back! It’s been a busy few years for Jason Manford since his last smash-hit stand up show but fans of his Absolute Radio show will know this nationally acclaimed comedian hasn’t changed a bit. Like Me is Jason’s latest comic offering set to hit road, and is sure to be ‘expert observational comedy’ (The Guardian) mixed with ‘comic gold’ (Mail on Sunday).

‘First & Last’ (BBC One), ‘The Masked Singer’ (ITV1), ‘What Would Your Kid Do?’ (ITV1), ‘Olivier Awards’ (ITV1), ‘Scarborough’ (BBC One), ‘8 out of 10 Cats’ (Channel 4), ‘The Nightly Show’ (ITV1), ‘Sunday Night at the Palladium’ (ITV1), ‘Live at the Apollo’ (BBC One), ‘Have I Got News For You’, (BBC One), QI (BBC Two) and ‘The Royal Variety Performance’ (ITV1) have all helped establish Jason Manford as a nationally known comic.

5 Oct at The White Rock Theatre, Hastings

29 Jun at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Jimeoin: Result!

Jimeoin presents his new show, fresh from a smash-hit New York off-Broadway season.

2 Nov at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Jimmy Carr: Terribly Funny

Famed for his award-winning stand-up and TV presenting roles, comedian Jimmy Carr celebrates an illustrious career spanning more than two decades.

29 Aug at The White Rock Theatre, Hastings

Jo Whiley's 90s Anthems

DJ Jo Whiley spins the best songs from the decades.

18 Jun at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Joe Satriani

World-renowned American guitar virtuoso.

16 May at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

John Cale

The founding member of Velvet Underground performs The Velvet Underground And Nico in its entirety to celebrate the iconic album's 50th anniversary.

21 Jul at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

John Francis Flynn

John Francis Flynn is a singer and multi-instrumentalist whose work centres around traditional and folk material from Ireland.

14 Aug at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Jools Holland and His Rhythm & Blues Orchestra

King of boogie-woogie, Jools Holland brings his energy-fueled show. Jools dazzles audiences across the UK with his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra and their exuberant live performances. The show will feature Gilson Lavis, special guest Eddi Reader, and guest vocalists Ruby Turner and Louise Marshall.

A composer, pianist, bandleader and broadcaster, Jools’ passion for music has made him a doyen of the music scene. His phenomenal success has seen him sell millions of records throughout his career, and he was awarded an OBE in 2003 for his services to the British music industry. With his show ‘Later with…Jools Holland’ now in its 54th series, and Jools’ Annual Hootenanny in its 27th, Jools’ name has become synonymous with quality music.

10 Jun at The White Rock Theatre, Hastings

Just Dance

2 Jul at The Hastings Centre, Hastings

Just Dance Studios 2022 Showcase

Just Dance Studios returns to The Hastings Centre with a performance of glitz, glam and entertainment. The showcase will be presented across a range of mediums and genres and all the students from our minis all the way through to our senior students who will share their hard work and commitment from the past term.

2 Jul, 2 Jul, 2 Jul • Cancelled at The Hastings Centre, Hastings

Justin Hayward

Legendary voice of The Moody Blues

23 Sep at The White Rock Theatre, Hastings

The Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band

Blues and blues-rock singer-guitarist from Shreveport.

16 Oct at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Kids Rule! @ May Half Term

Get ready for a right royal knees-up at our Kids Rule events this May half-term.

28 May–5 Jun at English Heritage: 1066 Battle Of Hastings, Abbey And Battlefield, Battle

Knights Tournament

Go back in time and get closer to the action as rival knights compete in the ultimate test of strength and skill at the Battle Abbey Knights’ Tournament.

25 Jun–26 Jun at English Heritage: 1066 Battle Of Hastings, Abbey And Battlefield, Battle

Ladysmith Black Mambazo

The moving a capella ensemble who first came to international prominence on Paul Simon's Graceland album and have remained at the forefront of South African music for more than 30 years.

20 Oct at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Laura Mvula

The singer-songwriter from Birmingham performs soulful R&B, which takes influences from free-jazz, gospel and psychedelic rock.

8 Sep at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Level 42

Eighties funk pop band back on the road again, singing old favourites including 'Running in the Family' and 'Lessons in Love' as well as newer tracks.

4 Nov at The White Rock Theatre, Hastings

Lou Sanders: One Word: Wow

It's me again, your old internet friend Dr Giggles.

It's time for a little get together; so pull up a chair, get all cosy and let me tell you about the time I gave this horse a boner. I'll bring my skates, you bring your wallet and we'll all take some piccies.

Maybe this show is the real vaccine?

As seen on The Late Late Show with James Corden (CBS), Taskmaster (Channel 4), QI (BBC Two), Travel Man (Channel 4) and co-host of Mel Giedroyc's Unforgivable (Dave).

'A comedian who leaves you wanting more'Times 'She's terrific'Guardian 'Thank the comedy Gods'Chortle

29 May at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

LoudNLive - ADELE Tribute

Join us at the uniquely beautiful Hastings Pier, On our OPEN AIR STAGE ON SEA (!!) This Friday we play host to ONE NIGHT WITH ADELE!!

29 Jul at Hastings Pier, Hastings

LoudNLive - BOB MARLEY & THE WAILERS Tribute

Join us at the uniquely beautiful Hastings Pier, On our OPEN AIR STAGE ON SEA (!!) This Friday we play host to THE MARLEY EXPERIENCE!!

19 Aug at Hastings Pier, Hastings

LoudNLive - BON JOVI Tribute

Join us at the uniquely beautiful Hastings Pier, On our OPEN AIR STAGE ON SEA (!!) This Friday we play host to Wrong Jovi playing ALL BON JOVIs finest moments!!!

1 Jul at Hastings Pier, Hastings

LoudNLive - BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN Tribute

Join us at the uniquely beautiful Hastings Pier, On our OPEN AIR STAGE ON SEA (!!) This Friday we play host to Bootleg Boss playing BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN's finest moments!!!

15 Jul at Hastings Pier, Hastings

LoudNLive - COLDPLAY Tribute

Join us at the uniquely beautiful Hastings Pier, On our OPEN AIR STAGE ON SEA (!!) This Friday we play host to ULTIMATE COLDPLAY!!

23 Sep at Hastings Pier, Hastings

LoudNLive - DAFT PUNK Tribute

Join us at the uniquely beautiful Hastings Pier, On our OPEN AIR STAGE ON SEA (!!) This Friday we play host to Daft Funk throwing down with all the DAFT PUNK classics!!!

17 Jun at Hastings Pier, Hastings

LoudNLive - DURAN DURAN Tribute

Join us at the uniquely beautiful Hastings Pier, On our OPEN AIR STAGE ON SEA (!!) This Friday we play host to the DURAN DURAN EXPERIENCE!

27 May at Hastings Pier, Hastings

LoudNLive - ED SHEERAN vs LEWIS CAPALDI Tribute

Join us at the uniquely beautiful Hastings Pier, On our OPEN AIR STAGE ON SEA (!!) This Friday we play host to Tom White as ED SHEERAN & LEWIS CAPALDI!!

20 May at Hastings Pier, Hastings

LoudNLive - FLEETWOOD MAC Tribute

Join us at the uniquely beautiful Hastings Pier, On our OPEN AIR STAGE ON SEA (!!) This Friday we play host to Fleetingwood Mac performing ALL the greatest hits of FLEETWOOD MAC!!!

10 Jun at Hastings Pier, Hastings

LoudNLive - KINGS OF LEON Tribute

Join us at the uniquely beautiful Hastings Pier, On our OPEN AIR STAGE ON SEA (!!) This Friday we play host to KINGS OF LYON!!

5 Aug at Hastings Pier, Hastings

LoudNLive - LITTLE MIX Tribute

Join us at the uniquely beautiful Hastings Pier, On our OPEN AIR STAGE ON SEA (!!) This Friday we play host to the LITTLE MIX EXPERIENCE!!!

22 Jul at Hastings Pier, Hastings

LoudNLive - MADNESS Tribute

Join us at the uniquely beautiful Hastings Pier, On our OPEN AIR STAGE ON SEA (!!) This Friday we play host to Badness performing all your favourite MADNESS music!!!

24 Jun at Hastings Pier, Hastings

LoudNLive - MICHAEL JACKSON Tribute

Join us at the uniquely beautiful Hastings Pier, On our OPEN AIR STAGE ON SEA (!!) This Friday we play host to Ben as MICHAEL JACKSON!!

12 Aug at Hastings Pier, Hastings

LoudNLive - OASIS Tribute

Join us at the uniquely beautiful Hastings Pier, On our OPEN AIR STAGE ON SEA (!!) This Friday we play host to the OASIS MAYBE!!

9 Sep at Hastings Pier, Hastings

LoudNLive - PULP FRICTION Tribute

Join us at the uniquely beautiful Hastings Pier, On our OPEN AIR STAGE ON SEA (!!) This Friday we play host to PULP FRICTION who perorm and act out The Music from Tarrentino Movies !!!

2 Sep at Hastings Pier, Hastings

LoudNLive - QUEEN Tribute

Join us at the uniquely beautiful Hastings Pier, On our OPEN AIR STAGE ON SEA (!!) This Friday we play host to Flash playing QUEENS finest moments!!!

8 Jul at Hastings Pier, Hastings

LoudNLive - TAKE THAT Tribute

Join us at the uniquely beautiful Hastings Pier, On our OPEN AIR STAGE ON SEA (!!) This Friday we play host to the TAKE THAT EXPERIENCE!!

26 Aug at Hastings Pier, Hastings

LoudNLive - THE BEATLES Tribute

Join us at the uniquely beautiful Hastings Pier, On our OPEN AIR STAGE ON SEA (!!) This Friday we play host to the THE COUNTERFIT BEATLES!!

16 Sep at Hastings Pier, Hastings

LoudNLive - THE BLUES BROTHERS Tribute - Season Finale

Join us at the uniquely beautiful Hastings Pier, On our OPEN AIR STAGE ON SEA (!!) This Friday we play host to the THE AMAZING BLUES BROTHERS for our Summer 2022 Season Finale!!

30 Sep at Hastings Pier, Hastings

Loudon Wainwright III: All in a Family

An evening of song, music and funny stories from Grammy award winner Loudon Wainwright III, his former partner Suzzy Roche and their daughter, Lucy Wainwright Roche.

21 Sep at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Macy Gray

The American singer, born Natalie Renee McIntyre, performs stripped back soul and R&B with a notable jazz influence.

3 Jun at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Madeleine Peyroux

Crossover jazz vocalist with a cool swinging take on tracks by Hank Williams, Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen.

1 Oct at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Marc Almond

The former Soft Cell singer turned successful solo artist supports his latest release.

24 Oct at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Marty Stuart

With legends like George Jones, Johnny Cash and Merle Haggard all passed on, country music purists often echo the question Jones himself asked: “Who’s going to fill their shoes?” The answer, in part, is Marty Stuart.

While he’s too gracious to admit it himself, the Grammy-winning singer, songwriter and musician is living, breathing country-music history. He’s played alongside the masters, from Cash to Lester Flatt, who discovered him; been a worldwide ambassador for Nashville, Bakersfield and points in between; and safeguarded country’s most valuable traditions and physical artifacts. Including its literal shoes: Stuart counts the brogan of Carter Family patriarch A.P. Carter and an assortment of Cash’s black boots among his vast collection of memorabilia.

But most importantly, Stuart continues to record and release keenly relevant music, records that honor country’s rich legacy while advancing it into the future. Way Out West, his 18th studio album, hits both of those marks. Produced by Mike Campbell (of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers), the album is a cinematic tour-de-force, an exhilarating musical journey through the California desert that solidifies Stuart as a truly visionary artist.

Opening with a Native American prayer, a nod to Stuart’s affinity for the indigenous people, particularly the Lakota, Way Out West transports the listener to the lonely but magical American West. It is, in its own way, musical peyote.

“If you go and sit by yourself in the middle of the Mojave Desert at sundown and you’re still the same person the next morning when the sun comes up, I’d be greatly surprised,” says Stuart. “It is that spirit world of the West that enchants me.”

Specifically the promised land of California. Growing up in Philadelphia, Mississippi, Stuart was taken by the mystique of the Golden State: the culture, the movies and especially the music. “Everything that came out of California captivated my kid mind in Mississippi,” he says. “It seemed like a fantasy land. Way Out West is a love letter to that.”

As such, the album could only be recorded there, and Stuart, with his longtime backing band the Fabulous Superlatives, decamped for California. They recorded half of the album at Capitol Records and the rest at Campbell’s M.C. Studio, a gritty space with a vibe all its own. Much of the early Heartbreakers music was recorded at Campbell’s and that primal rock & roll energy is palpable throughout Way Out West, reinforced by Capitol’s own rock history: the Hollywood studio birthed iconic records like the Beach Boys’ Pet Sounds and the country-rock of Glen Campbell’s Wichita Lineman. Way Out West, with its atmospheric production, evokes those classics, as well as cowboy records like Marty Robbins’ Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs and Cash’s The Fabulous Johnny Cash, one of the first albums Stuart ever owned.

“This is a California record, and I knew that when I emerged from the studio at night, I wanted to see palm trees and breathe that desert air,” says Stuart.

Listeners too can feel the warmth of those Santa Ana winds over the album’s 15 tracks, a collection of newly written originals, instrumentals and rare covers like the Benny Goodman-penned “Air Mail Special,” and “Lost on the Desert,” once recorded by Johnny Cash.

“I asked Johnny about that song when I was in his band, and he said the only thing he remembered about it was changing some words,” laughs Stuart. “But Way Out West just as easily could have been titled Lost on the Desert.”

The idea of losing oneself runs through Way Out West, with the title track both a spiritual adventure and a cautionary tale – Stuart wraps up the travel ballad with a spoken aside about his own bad trips with pills.

“I researched that for 30 years,” he jokes, self-deprecatingly. “There’s a lot of truth in that song.”

The rollicking standout “Time Don’t Wait” also offers a warning: to not let life race by. “As the dirt fell through my fingers / the wind it seemed to say / don’t put off until tomorrow, what you can today,” sings Stuart. “That’s just country wisdom. I can’t claim that. But I like when you can talk about the simple things that are around us. That makes country music come to life for me,” he says.

When it comes to transforming country songs into tangible experience, Stuart has a secret weapon: the Fabulous Superlatives. Made up of guitarist Kenny Vaughan, drummer Harry Stinson and new member, bassist Chris Scruggs, the Superlatives are an extension of Stuart himself.

“The Superlatives are missionaries, they’re fighting partners. They’re my Buckaroos, my Tennessee Three, my Strangers. They’re my legacy band and have been since Day One,” says Stuart.

Along with the playing of Mike Campbell, who contributed guitar, B-3 organ and piano, the Fabulous Superlatives are all over Way Out West and ensure that the mystical detours Stuart explores always remain of the moment.

As Stuart himself will tell you, he often ventures off the reservation – in a way, his entire career has been “way out west.” While other artists chased popular trends in the name of radio play, he formed complete bodies of work, not unlike the greats he idolized. Way Out West is just the latest embodiment of that creative mission.

“I would play this record for Hank Williams, Merle Haggard or Ernest Hemingway and never bat an eye,” says Stuart. “There’s something in there that would entertain each of them.”

But Stuart also made Way Out West for those who come after. As he sees it, there is no greater responsibility in music than to share what you’ve learned.

“Lester Flatt saw something in me and gave me his wisdom, wit and music. Johnny Cash was my best friend. But all of that doesn’t come for free. The job is to pass it along,” says Stuart, stretching out his arms. “That’s the way it’s supposed to be in country music.”

With Way Out West, Stuart holds up his end of the deal.

30 Aug at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives

If you were to give country music an address, you might say it's at the corner of sacred and profane, two doors up from the blues and folk, and just across the street from gospel, R&B and rock 'n' roll. And on a deeper emotional and spiritual level, it resides where Saturday night meets Sunday morning.

No one understands these coordinates better than Marty Stuart. For over forty years, the five-time Grammy winning multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter, photographer and historian has been building a rich legacy at this very crossroads. On his latest release with his band The Fabulous Superlatives, the double-disc Saturday Night & Sunday Morning, Stuart captures all the authentic neon and stained-glass hues of country music – from love and sex to heartache and hardship to family and God – in twenty-three tracks.

“I've always thought that country music had a really unique relationship with gospel music,” Stuart says. “It is interesting to me that country stars can sing drinking and cheating songs authentically, then at some point during the evening or the broadcast, take their hats off and say, 'Friends, here's our gospel song.' If it’s the right messenger it seamlessly flows. That's a time-honored tradition, from Jimmie Rodgers to Hank Williams to Johnny Cash. Rogue prophets and rogue preachers. That is my world.

“Another part of my world, while growing up in Mississippi, was listening to our local radio station, WHOC. 'One thousands watts of pure pleasure.' In the morning, they signed on with country music and farm reports. At noon they played gospel music for an hour. Then afternoon was rock 'n' roll and top 40. Late afternoon was soul. And they signed off with easy

listening. I thought everybody's radio station was like that. It was kind of a reflection of how Mississippi is. The birthplace of America's music. The church house is the common denominator, and every form of music has a touch of the blues. So I come from that perspective. Traditional country touched me the deepest, but all of these other styles were relevant to me. It felt like just another day at the office.”

That day at the office on Saturday Night and Sunday Morning offers a rousing blend of Stuart originals, classic covers and traditional hymns and that throw their arms around the whole history of not only country but modern American music. Kicking off with the revved-up rockabilly rush of “Jailhouse” and “Geraldine,” disc one winds through Stuart’s grand “When It Comes To Loving You” and the honky tonker “Talking To The Wall” through deeply soulful covers of Charlie Rich's “Life Has Its Little Ups And Downs” and George Jones' “Old Old House” before wrapping up with the positively frantic blues rocket ride of “Streamline.” Disc two trades sawdust for sermons, and goes right to the river with the gorgeous “Uncloudy Day,” featuring not only the legendary Mavis Staples on lead vocals, but Marty playing a guitar that the Staples family bequeathed him that once belonged to Pops Staples. The Fabulous Superlatives shine with their celebratory group harmony singing on standouts like “That Gospel Music,” “Angels Rock Me To Sleep” and “Mercy #1,” while uptempo rockers like “Keep On the Firing Line” and “Good News” build the service to a big hands-to-heaven call and response finish with “Cathedral,” featuring the mighty soul shouts of Pastor Evelyn Hubbard.

“There are a few twists and turns in the record,” Stuart says with a smile, “so I hope it all feels like it's part of the same thing. As a band, that's where we are. It's natural.”

Born in the small town of Philadelphia, Mississippi, Marty Stuart caught the music bug early, displaying prodigious talent on every stringed instrument he picked up. At an age when most kids are running bases in little league, 13-year old Stuart was logging cross-country interstate miles as a mandolinist with the legendary Lester Flatt's road band. In his twenties, Stuart toured with Johnny Cash, and also played with other legends such as Bill Monroe, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins. By the late 1980s, Stuart was a solo artist, rising faster than mercury in the heat of a hillbilly fever. But amidst the hits and hoopla, the bright lights eventually revealed a deeper truth.

“I had such a great run, playing butt-wigglin' songs in coliseums, and it was just wearing thin,” he admits. “I remember spinning around one day at Foxwoods, up in Massachusetts, there was a full house, the band was really loud, we were doing good, the crowd was screaming and hollering, and I thought, 'I am not enjoying this music.' And then I told myself, 'Well get back to enjoying it, because you’re on top of the world right now. Platinum records, Grammys, it was all coming. But I did not like the way my legacy was shaping up. So I took the better part of a year to unwind it. Another issue that fueled that decision was that radio was starting to cool on my records. I was beginning to chase after hits, and it was tearing me apart. I had one record left on my contract with MCA, and I vowed to get back to the music I’ve always loved the most, and let my heart be the chart.'”

To get some clarity, Stuart consulted his friend and mentor, Johnny Cash. “I went to his house and said, 'J.R., I've got a record in my mind called The Pilgrim. I laid it out to him, and he said, 'Well, just know you're stepping up for rejection. Potentially.' I said, 'I understand, but I've got to do this.' He said, 'If you've got to do it, that's all the reason you need.' So I made the record. It was a great critical success, and it was a line-in-the-dirt artistic moment of reconnecting with my true self, a piece of myself that I had hidden away years before, to go exploring. From that moment forward, I realized that there's a different way to live a life as a musical citizen.”

Stuart knew he didn't want to travel this new path alone, so he recruited fellow musical missionaries Kenny Vaughan, Harry Stinson and Paul Martin.

“From the Superlatives' first rehearsal, I knew this was the band of a lifetime,” Stuart says. “I knew this was my Buckaroos, my Strangers, my Texas Troubadours - my legacy band. Kenny Vaughan, Harry Stinson and Paul Martin are not only musical geniuses, but statesmen. The Fabulous Superlatives are without question one of the greatest bands of our time. We have played ourselves out of the woods and Saturday Night and Sunday Morning is one of those milestone projects in the band’s legacy that truly brings the spunk and fire of the bandstand to the studio. The other person that should be mentioned is the invisible Superlative, Mick Conley. His engineering brings a touch of class and a spark to our music that any band would long for. We are a much better band because of Mick’s presence.

With acclaimed albums like Ghost Train: The Studio B Sessions and Souls’ Chapel, as well as The Marty Stuart Show, a musical variety program on RFD-TV, Stuart says “I’ve found my place to drive a stake in the dirt, and proclaim, this is what I believe in.”

“I think traditional country music should be regarded alongside jazz and ballet and classical music in the pantheon of the arts,” he says. “I thought, 'As a band, that's our mission. Putting our arms around what's left of the culture. Making sure the old timers get loved on and shown dignity.' And then it became, let's show young musicians that traditional country music

is alive and well. The message is, C'mon, over here and play it if it's in your heart. RFD-TV gave me a stage and a broadcast to put country music and Saturday night back together. Those two entities were made for each other. We’ve just finished our 156th episode of The Marty Stuart Show. It’s been pure magic.”

All of Stuart's immersion in authentic country music has also found creative expression through the lens of a camera. Inspired by the photographs of jazz drummer Milt Hinton of his fellow musicians, Stuart realized in the early 1970s that he could fill a similar role as a chronicler. And for decades, he's been capturing strikingly beautiful images of performers and fans that feel like little windows into the soul of our country.

A collection of his most resonant photos is currently on display in an exhibit called American Ballads at Nashville's Frist Museum (also a new coffee table book published by Vanderbilt University Press), and later this year, a second exhibit of his work called The Art of Country Music will open at the Sheldon Gallery in St. Louis.

Of his photography, Stuart says, “Whether it was the doorman at the Opry, or Ernest Tubb's bus driver, or stars or songwriters or musicians, everybody stood still for me and let me take pictures. I'd aim to capture what they all meant to me. It was basically like taking pictures of my family. It takes a tribe to raise a kid, and they were my tribe. All of those people invested something in me when I was a kid, and I wanted to remember that kindness. The thing about that era of those old masters is that most of them were really country people. They were down to earth. Basically, farm people who'd come to town and got a job singing songs. That's what I related to, coming from Mississippi. The other side of it, I wanted to take pictures of my life on the road to send home to my family and they could see what I what I was up to. It was basically documenting family.

"Songwriting, photography, guitar playing, entertaining, singing, designing TV shows - it's all the same thing to me,” Stuart continues. “If I take a good photograph, it absolutely makes me do everything else better. If I play a good guitar solo, it absolutely affects how I take the next picture. It's all interwoven.”

With Saturday Night and Sunday Morning set for an autumn release, and more touring ahead for the Superlatives, Stuart says his expectations are high, but grounded in reality.

“I heard Aretha Franklin say something one time that I never forgot - 'When I do something new, I always wonder if people will like it, but I step forward, present it, close my eyes and stick out my hand and hope somebody takes it.' I thought that was a beautiful way to put it. I hope the new album is accepted. Starting with The Pilgrim forward, I chose a very different path, an unthinkable path, to tear down such a huge wall of success and go, 'That was wonderful, but I'm gonna do something different now.' And basically start over. I look back at what we've done with the Superlatives over the last twelve years, and I'm very proud of it. That legacy that I didn't see forming right that day at Foxwoods, I have a better feeling about it now. And as the old song says, ‘I do believe everything’s gonna be alright.’”

30 Aug at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Medieval Season

Join us at Battle every day of the summer holidays to learn what life was like in medieval times.

23 Jul–4 Sep at English Heritage: 1066 Battle Of Hastings, Abbey And Battlefield, Battle

Midge Ure: Voice and Visions Tour

Midge Ure & Band Electronica celebrate 40 years since the release of Ultravox's Rage In Eden and Quartet albums.

27 Sep at The White Rock Theatre, Hastings

Modest Mouse

Modest Mouse formed in 1993 in Issaquah, Washington and has become, over the past two decades, the indie rock gold standard: One of the few bands capable of achieving massive popularity without sacrificing their longtime fans.

17 Jul at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

My Mountain Life by'Touching the Void's'Simon Yates

One of the most accomplished exploratory mountaineers of all time. Simon Yates is best known for his role in the harrowing expedition to the Andes documented in Joe Simpson's bestseller 'Touching the Void'. Following that experience in Peru, Simon has been increasingly drawn to places where few others have trod. This talk features spectacular images and film from some of the most remote and rarely visited mountain ranges of the world. From the Arctic to the Antarctic and Alaska to Central Asia - there is hardly a significant range that Simon has not visited.

"Simon is a totally engaging speaker, who both entertains and inspires."

7 Oct at St Mary in the Castle, Hastings

Natalie Imbruglia

14 Oct at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Newton Faulkner

Dreadlocked, laidback surfer dude troubadour doing tricksy stuff with acoustic guitars.

13 Oct at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Omid Djalili: The Good Times Tour

After experimenting with a Zoom gig where he got muted by 639 people and a Drive‐in gig where Omid witnessed an audience member get out his car, attach a hose pipe to his exhaust and feed it through the window; multi award‐winning comedian and actor Omid Djalili is now where he belongs, on a stage and bringing back the Good Times.

Intelligent, always provocative, entertaining, Omid’s legendary stand‐up performances is a captivating comedy masterclass. His credits range from Hollywood films to television and the West End stage. Earning praise across the world for his performances, Omid is seen hosting his own ITV quiz show The Winning Combination. He appeared in the smash hit Mama Mia 2: Here We Go Again, His Dark Materials for BBC1 & HBO, and Letter For The King on Netflix. Omid also gained rave reviews for his leading role of Tevvye in the Chichester Festival Theatre production of “Fiddler On The Roof”.

29 Oct at The White Rock Theatre, Hastings

On The Pier - Shy FX, Bou, Clipz, Randall b2b Benny L + more.

The On The Pier series brings world class acts from across the bass spectrum to Hastings's iconic and 150 year old pleasure pier. It reaches out over the English Channel as the waves break below, the beach stretches out either side and the classic seaside town of Hastings acts as a beautiful backdrop. When soaked in summer sun there is no better place to party, and as afternoon turns to evening and that sun begins to set, it makes for a real shivers down your spine musical experience. The stage itself boasts immersive lights and lasers while the sound system is world class to ensure every kick drum hits like intended.

9 Jul at Hastings Pier, Hastings

Orchestra Baobab

West Africa's most iconic dance-band are back! Recently celebrating their 50th anniversary, Orchestra Baobab, are one of Africa's greatest bands. Adored both at home in Senegal and across the world, Baobab occupy a special place in the history of African music. Their epic story begins in the heart of Dakar's Medina in the 1960s and extends across the world and into the 21st century, featuring a brilliant assembly of diverse musical personalities and encompassing a unique blend of Afro-Latin styles, international pop, West African griot music, and an after-dark West African nightclub ambience of lilting, mellifluous rhythms. This is an 18+ event (Photo I.D. required) .

6 Aug at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

The Overtones

Doo-wop vocal harmony man band doing it for the mums.

27 May at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Pick Your Poison

The extremists of Extreme World Wrestling are back and after the ground breaking shake up at Revelations the landscape of EWW could be changed forever!

It's time to pick a side, battle lines have been drawn it truly is time to pick your poison!

16 Jul at Summerfields Leisure Centre, Hastings

Refugee Week: Limbo

25 Jun, 25 Jun at Kino-Teatr, St. Leonards-on-Sea

Richard Durrant: Music For Midsummer

At this concert Richard will play his Sussex downland inspired 'The Crest, The Coombe, The Twitten' and the richly melodic 'Book of Spells' on a concert guitar made from a 5,000 year old English oak. You will also hear unaccompanied Bach played on a ukulele made from cedar rescued from the Oregon 'Biscuit Fire'. Now in it's eighth year, Richard's 2022 musical pilgrimage takes him from the magnificent St magnus Cathedral on Orkney, through the UK to Brighton open Air Theatre for midsummer and further concerts in Sussex and Kent. Once again , to reduce his carbon footprint, Richard will be travelling between venues by bicycle carrying his instruments on a trailer. To coincide with the tour a new album 'The Sleep of a King' will be launched. Like much of Richard's music this collection of guitar solos is inspired by the landscape of The British Isles. ' My new favourite guitaruist..Richard Durrant sits completely outside the accepted genres. he has a peculiar and wonderful mind.' Tom Robinson, BBC 6 Music

29 Jun at St Peter's Church, Bexhill

The Rink

23 Jun, 24 Jun, 25 Jun, 25 Jun at St Mary in the Castle, Hastings

Rob Beckett: Wallop

Observational and high-energy new material from the award-winning stand-up whose TV appearances include All Together Now, 8 Out of 10 Cats and Live at the Apollo.

8 Jun at The White Rock Theatre, Hastings

Rosalie Cunningham

English singer-songwriter formerly of the band Ipso Facto.

5 Nov at The Piper, Saint Leonards

Royal Ballet: Swan Lake

19 May at Kino-Teatr, St. Leonards-on-Sea

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac, the world’s finest tribute to Fleetwood Mac, returns to the stage in 2021 with a brand new show celebrating the very best of Fleetwood Mac, including a very special blues set paying tribute to Fleetwood Mac's legendary Peter Green era.

Channelling the spirit of Fleetwood Mac at their very best, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac offers a unique opportunity for fans, both old and new, to rediscover the songs and performances that have ensured Fleetwood Mac’s place as one of the most loved groups of all time.

Personally endorsed by Fleetwood Mac founding member, Mick Fleetwood, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac is the ultimate tribute to one of rock and roll’s most remarkable groups.

19 Jun at The White Rock Theatre, Hastings

Sara Pascoe: LadsLadsLads

The award-winning comedian returns with her new show.

18 Nov at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Sarah Jane Morris, Tony Remy & Henry Thomas. Special Guest: Otis Coulter

17 Jun at Kino-Teatr, St. Leonards-on-Sea

Saxon

One of old school metal's most fondly regarded combos, Yorkshire lads who's chugging riffs and love of 'Denim and Leather' helped spearhead NWOBHM.

13 Nov at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Scott Matthews

Solo artist from Wolverhampton whose folk/blues influenced sound can be heard on albums Passing Stranger and Elsewhere, the latter of which featured a duet with Robert Plant.

25 Sep at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Shalamar with Special Guest Phil Fearon & Galaxy

Wednesday 10 June

Front Doors Open: 6.15pmAuditorium: 7.15pmShow Starts: 7.45pm

To alleviate large queues we ask that you arrive in good time as there are bag searches in place. Where possible please bring small bags with you.

Tickets: £36.50, £34.50 & 32.50*

*A transaction fee of £1.25 per ticket is charged for online purchases

As Shalamar, Howard Hewitt and Jeffrey Daniel sold over 25 million records worldwide and collected no less than 100 gold, silver and platinum awards. Their live show includes multi- million selling hits, such as 'A Night To Remember', 'I Can Make You Feel Good', 'Make That Move', 'There It Is', 'Dead Giveaway', 'I Owe You One', 'The Second Time Around' and many more.

“A Shalamar concert is a giant party,” says Jeffrey Daniel. “From the moment we step on stage to the moment we finish the audience becomes part of the show, they’re up on their feet dancing and singing along!”

As noted in the publication British Hit Singles & Albums, Shalamar were regarded as fashion icons and trendsetters, and helped to introduce 'body-popping' to the United Kingdom. Jeffrey Daniel is noted as the dance mentor for Michael Jackson and the man that taught him the moonwalk. Howard Hewett is a one of the most iconic US soul artistes of all time. Carolyn Griffey is the daughter of Solar Records creator Dick Griffey and heir to the label dynasty.

Special Guest - Phil Fearon

Special guest for the show will be fellow 80’s star, Phil Fearon & Galaxy—instantly recognisable for his hit singles ‘''Dancing Tight’ , "What Do I Do?", "Everybody’s Laughing" "I Can Prove It"& ‘This Kind of Love’.

25 May at The White Rock Theatre, Hastings

Shiver Me Timbers Cabaret

Captin Windsor and his crew invite you to an evening of singing, dancing, and Piratical debauchery to help raise funds for our maiden voyage and keep Hastings pirate day a fantastic free event for all to enjoy… so dig out your tricorns, stockings and boots and walk the plank to the Shiver Me Timbers Pirate Cabaret!

16 Jul at Hastings Pier, Hastings

The Soul Train

A night of soul music.

28 Jul at The White Rock Theatre, Hastings

Southcoast Reggae Festival

We are proud to announce the very first South Coast Reggae Festival at Hastings Pier on Saturday June 11th 2022!!

11 Jun at Hastings Pier, Hastings

Southern Sunset Festival

Get ready for the return of the immense sunshine-filled Southern Sunset Festival this Summer. Blue skies, warm sunsets, top line-up, we’ve got it all. The only thing missing? You, and your mates! Last year saw Southern Sunset sell-out and we can’t wait to bring you all back to Hastings. Located in The Oval, the largest outdoor event space in the area, you’ll be a short walk from Hastings mainline station with direct links to London and Brighton. This line-up is the biggest The Oval has seen to date and is not one to miss. First up, the mighty Pendulum. These guys are legends in the electronic music scene bringing DnB, dubstep and rock-inspired elements into their thumping electronic sound. Propane Nightmares, their iconic 2008 track, smashed the charts for 29 weeks in the UK and they’ve gone from success to success. UK Drill and Hip-hop artist, Tion Wayne, is leading the way in the scene and his tune with Russ Millions Keisha & Becky had a well deserved place in the top 10 UK charts. This followed on from Body with Russ Millions, the first drill ever to chart at number 1. Enough said… Widely regarded as one of the world’s top UK garage and house DJs, we can’t wait to welcome DJ EZ. As one of the earliest proponents of UK garage music, EZ cut his teeth in London’s pirate radio scene and went on to become a global name. His energy and enthusiasm for mixing produces some of the best live performances around. Garage legend, DJ Luck joins us on 6th August. DJ Luck (and MC Neat) were seminal in launching the garage scene in the UK. Their track ‘A Little Bit of Luck’ needs no introduction, it speaks for itself. One for all the garage heads! Katy B launched onto the stage in 2011 with her album On A Mission. Since then, she’s gone to collaborate with Kaytranada, Craig David, Tinie Tempah and plenty more. 2022 sees her touring the globe and we’re super excited welcome her. XOYO resident, Mike Skinner also joins us. Mike Skinner had an eclectic career stemming from his youth, writing hip hop and garage music at an early age and going on to release his seminal music project The Streets in 1994. With thoughtful and gritty wordplay, you’d be mad to miss him perform live. Bassline titan Darkzy joins us, mixing the best in bassline, dubstep and DnB. He’s joined by fellow Crucast member Window Kid, who is tearing up the MC scene. Rising up the ranks through years of grime and dubstep, Window Kid and Darkzy performing together will be a set unlike any other. Luude has quickly risen to prominence in the DnB scene, with his remixes of classic tunes such as Men At Work as well as creating fresh summer belters such as Down Under (feat. Colin Hay). Ragga veteran and jungle lord, General Levy joins us this Summer. If anyone knows how to whip a crowd up, it’s him! Expect amen breaks, rolling basslines and the General to give his usual high-energy performance. Emily Nash is one to watch out for. She’s smashing it with her thumping house tracks laced with feel-good euphoric vocals. Her latest track Garden is a dancefloor shaker, and we can’t wait to have her join us. 6th August – put the date in your calendar. Let’s make it happen people!

6 Aug at The Oval, Hastings

St. Vincent

Sublime sounds from the Kate Bush-like St Vincent, aka former Polyphonic Spree/Sufjan Stevens guitarist Annie Clark.

30 Jun at De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Steps Live in Concert

Steps To Perform Live In Hastings! Steps - Louise Redknapp - Liberty X - Gareth Gates - Dean Mccullough Jbm Music Brings You Steps Live, The Iconic British Five-Piece, On Sunday 31St July 2022. Hailing From 1997, This Well-Loved Pop Group Produced Their Line Dancing Classic 5, 6, 7, 8 Along With Tragedy And Stomp And Sky-Rocketed Through The Charts With 10 Uk Top Singles And Three Multi-Platinum Albums. Having Officially Reformed In 2017, Steps Graced The Country With Their Latest Album ‘What The Future Holds’ In 2020 With Immense Success. Join Us On 31St July 2022, For A Concert Like No Other; Prepare To Transport Yourself Back To Simpler Times, That Much Missed Noughties Era! Steps Live Will Promise To Bring You Those All Too Familiar Matching Outfits, Dazzling Stage Presence And Catchy Dance Routines. But That’S Not All, Steps Worked Hard To Craft Its Latest Songs And You Cannot Miss This Opportunity To See The Pop Group Back In Action. “We Will Never Forget The Past With Steps, It’S What Made Us, But We’Ve Got To Look To The Future Too,” Said The Band In A Statement. “We Were So Thrilled That The Last Album Was A Success, And It Gave Us A New Lease Of Life.” Get You And Your Closest To Hastings For What Is Set To Be A Magical, High-Energy Performance Like No Other. All Ticket Holders Under The Age Of 16 Must Be Accompanied By An Adult.

31 Jul at The Oval, Hastings

Steve Furst: In Character

Actor, comedian, musician Steve Furst (Matilda - West End, Little Britain, Holby City The Wright Stuff, Lenny Beige) presents 10 darkly comic creations in this 2 act/2 hour show which is unlike anything you will have seen.

There is a huge diversity of character from a Royal butler to a waltzer owner, to an inner-city Mayor to a former stuntman, to a modern day druid. Steve doesn't leave the stage at all during the show allowing the audience a glimpse into the process of 'getting into character'. ‘Furst’s attention to writing and acting is truly astounding’ The Stage

28 Jul at Kino-Teatr, St. Leonards-on-Sea

Hastings What's On Listings

Alphabetical list of up and coming events in the Hastings area