The Festival may be over, but there’s still a chance to experience world class music at the Merlin this week.
On Thursday 17th July at 7.45pm Aliou Gassama and Adam Doughty present Kora: Music, Tradition and Craft. Originating in West Africa, the Kora is also known as the ‘West African harp’ and described as a ‘harp lute’.
Aliou Gassama and Adam Doughty are long standing collaborators both as musicians and master kora makers. This exquisite performance will combine traditional kora music with stories around the traditions of West African music and kora making.
Aliou is from a traditional Jali family (hereditary musician’s caste) based in Ziguinchor, Senegal. He makes kora bodies which are shipped to the UK where Adam completes the instruments and sells them worldwide through his company, The Kora Workshop.
Kora: Music, Tradition & Craft is a WOMAD Foundation initiative to widen experiences of the kora. Adam and Aliou will be travelling around Wiltshire, Somerset and Dorset for workshops and performances.
Tickets for their performance at the Merlin on 17th July are Adults £10, Students £8. Suitable for all ages. Running time: two hours including interval – Box office: 01373 465949 – www.merlinthe atre.co.uk
Illyria at the Merlin
Great theatre doesn’t end with the Festival!
Outdoor touring company Illyria have won international awards and are renowned for their clarity, quality and ingenuity. This summer they are touring Shakespeare’s famous ‘Scottish play’ (Macbeth to the less superstitious!) with a performance at the Merlin on Sunday 27th July at 7.00 pm.
Macbeth is a military hero, a noble and devoted subject, respected by fellow Thanes and trusted by King Duncan: a man with a bright future. But he meets three witches who foretell more than just a rise in fortunes – they say he will become king himself. The seed of ambition sown by this prophesy incites a chain of treachery, murder and destruction which destroys this once great man.
Tickets are £13.50, students £11 and ‘under 16s’ £9. Bring cushions, picnics etc (performance will move inside if weather bad). Contact 01373 465949 or www.merlintheatre.co.uk to book.