Hen & Chicken

Talk: The Psychology of Psychopaths with Forensic Psychologist Dee Anand
2025-07-30 19:30 - 21:30 UTC | Hen & Chicken Studio
Do psychopaths live amongst us?
“Psychopath” is a term often thrown around in popular culture, but how many of us truly understand what it means? Psychopathy is a complex and often misunderstood condition that has fascinated forensic psychologists, criminologists, and the public for decades.In this talk, we’ll examine the defining traits and behaviours of psychopathy. Diving into genetic roots, emotional detachment and socio-environmental influences, Chartered Forensic Psychologist Dee Anand will unravel the science behind the condition. We’ll also tackle the big questions: Are psychopaths born or made? And can a psychopath ever be cured?
Dee Anand is a Chartered Forensic Psychologist and has been practising in the field for over 20 years. He has led Forensic Psychology with an unprecedented two terms as Chair of the National Division of Forensic Psychology, and has held the position of Chair of every professional board in Forensic Psychology at the British Psychological Society. He is currently Head of Qualification in Forensic Psychology at the British Psychological Society. His research on psychopathy was conducted at Broadmoor Hospital, a high-security psychiatric institution, where he investigated the PCL-R model of psychopathy. As a practitioner, Dee has worked extensively with violent offenders and other complex offenders in creating and leading intervention and reform programmes. In academia, he was the Programme Director for the Professional Doctorate in Forensic Psychology at the University of Portsmouth.
This is a 16+ event.

Music: The Alan Fletcher Band - Back To School Album Tour
2025-07-31 19:30 - 22:00 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Alan Fletcher is a household name in the UK because of his portrayal of Dr Karl Kennedy in the popular Australian drama Neighbours. Thousands of people also know Alan’s work as a successful musician, first as a Rock artist with his band Waiting Room and lately as a fine Americana and Alt/Country singer-songwriter.
In 2024 Alan and his five-piece band promoted his album The Point on a sold-out 22 date UK tour
In 2025 Alan and the band return to the UK for a 32-date tour promoting his upcoming album Back to School.
Alan’s songs are a blend of humour (For the Love of Lager, How Good is Bed, I’ve Got a Crush on Susie K) and poignant reflections on love and life (Hey You, The Point, Back to School)
Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy Alan’s songs and meet a TV legend up close and personal.
What they say about Alan’s gigs.
Engaging, delightful, wistful and original, The Point is classically crafted whilst contemporarily composed. It’s an album that covers a wide spectrum of emotions, that shakes and stirs with infectious honesty. – The Manc Review (mancreview.com)
Overall, Alan Fletcher delivered a show that surprised in the best possible way. He had a fantastic vocal quality throughout as well as some solid guitar playing, but what elevated the evening for me was the balance he struck between thoughtfulness and fun and the strength of his connection with the crowd. It’s safe to say he’s going to appeal to music fans way beyond just those who know him from ‘Neighbours’.
Entertainment-focus.com – Laura Cooney
Although the essence of the show is the great Americana of Alan’s songs and delivery, Jen added some lovely, polished vocals and the whole band was exceptional … it is always great to see such a high-quality band having such a ball on stage … and the audience rightly loving every second. Five hugely talented musicians and singers delivering a truly outstanding set of Americana … up there with the finest gigs ever … loved every second … richly entertaining show … doesn’t get much better!!
Rich Wakefield Leicester Musician review 2024

GAMES - North Street GAmes Night
2025-08-04 19:30 - 23:00
Hosted by North Street Games Our games nights are great for individuals, couples and groups alike as we curate things at the start of the event, getting you playing as soon as possible with like-minded folks.
Just £3 to play, which includes an exclusive 10% off drinks and food!

Comedy: Dom Joly TRIGGER HAPPY TV LIVE (WORK-IN-PROGRESS)
2025-08-05 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
It’s been twenty-five years since Trigger Happy TV burst onto our screens, transforming the hidden camera format with its surreal universe of characters and unforgettable pranks. Now, to celebrate a quarter-century of chaos, Dom Joly is bringing his most iconic characters and sketches to The Hen & Chicken in this Trigger Happy TV Live: 25th Anniversary Work In Progress show.

Fans will experience beloved moments from the show,as well as behind-the-scenes stories and insights on how these unforgettable moments came to life. But the surprises don’t stop there – this is a live work-in-progress show, and fans can expect the unexpected.

And, as it wouldn’t be Trigger Happy TV without a little chaos, audiences are warned to stay on the lookout for pranks, unexpected events, and a chance to find themselves starring in their very own Trigger Happy TV sketch. It’s all part of the madness, and you definitely don’t want to miss it.

Comedy: Jenny Tian - JENNY'S TRAVELS
2025-08-06 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Jenny’s had one of the most original experiences ever: moving to the UK as an Australian. She’s frozen her eggs, re-downloaded Hinge and is ready for an adventure. Join her as she shares her stories of phone snatching, failing to understand the Scottish accent and “finding herself”.
Jenny Tian is an Australian comedian whose sharp wit has seen her sell out shows internationally, most recently at the Edinburgh Fringe 2024. If you’re wondering why she looks familiar, you’ve probably seen her on Taskmaster Australia, Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee or from a scroll through her online content.
Directed by Justin Hamilton.
“Excitable hour of comedy.” ★★★★★ The Wee Review
Biography:
A regular on the Sydney comedy circuit, Jenny Tian exploded onto the scene during the pandemic notching up millions of likes and amassing a collective online audience of 1M+.
Her debut solo show Picture This sold out to audiences up and down the east coast of Australia and was released as a YouTube special where it has clocked up over 750k views.
Her second hour Chinese Australian: A Tale of Internet Fame sold out across Australia and took her to her first ever runs at the Edinburgh Fringe and west end Boulevard Theatre, also selling out both.
Off the back of her stand up success, Jenny secured a spot on the lineup for the 2024 Melbourne International Comedy Festival Gala and as a cast member in season 2 of Taskmaster AU.
Recently announced as a recipient of Screen Aus and YouTube’s funding initiative, Skip Ahead, Jenny continues her mastery of online content creation, often using it as material for her stand up shows.

Wednesday Night Improv: Triple Bill
2025-08-13 19:30 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Wednesday Night Improv is back with a triple bill packed with quick wit, bold characters, and stories made up on the spot.
Join us for a midweek comedy boost featuring three of Bristol’s sharpest improv acts – each one creating a brand-new show right before your eyes, all inspired by audience suggestions.
** BEANSVILLE: THE IMPROVISED WORKPLACE PILOT **
Beansville presents: The Workplace. It’s another day at the office… the shop… the factory… or maybe even that weird place you once worked. You know the one. With all of the romances, rivalries, politics and performance issues you’d expect, all made up on the spot in this improvised workplace comedy.
Watch the pilot episode of a wholly improvised workplace comedy based on your suggestions.
** THE GRUMPKINS: THE ANYTHING-GOES TWO-PERSON IMPROV SHOW **
Emma T and Pete Leaman make up the two-person myth that is The Grumpkins. They will create a brand new self-contained story from nothing but their imaginations and sheer determination.
This anything-goes show may feature adventure, romance, aliens, demons, drama, intrigue or a gritty limited series about a mismatched pair of detectives. All we know for sure is it will feature The Grumpkins.
** PRESSURE COOKER: THE IMPROVISED RESTAURANT SHOW **
Pressure Cooker whisks you into the chaos of a fictional restaurant where chefs, customers, and kitchen staff are all played by a dynamic ensemble. Using YOUR stories as ingredients, our performers cook up hilarious, unpredictable scenes every night. From meltdowns to menu mayhem, it’s comedy served hot and fast.
“Pure Comedic Alchemy” – Bristol 24/7
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Whether you’re a seasoned comedy fan or just curious about what happens when performers make it all up as they go, this is a perfect night to dive into Bristol’s thriving improv scene. Expect laughter, surprises, and something completely different – every single time.
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Part of the Wednesday Night Improv series – We’re on the second Wednesday of every month!

Music: Endorfiends Release Gig
2025-08-16 21:00 - 23:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Hanztheman, a Nigerian born independent artist, shares his life’s experiences with love, dr*gs and emotions, with his unique blending of genres.
But first, the show will be opened by an art sale/exhibition by artists from his home country (VOFO, BERKINWARI) and Bristol (Sebcolorsin), and then the music is opened up by the amazing Alexa Sibson.
Entry requirements: 18+

Talk: The Art History of Howl’s Moving Castle with Helen McCarthy
2025-08-21 19:30 - 21:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
What do a Welsh children’s book, the Iraq War, and a master of Japanese animation have in common? They collide in Howl’s Moving Castle—the dazzling follow-up to Hayao Miyazaki’s Academy Award-winning Spirited Away. Though now beloved by audiences worldwide, the film almost wasn’t Miyazaki’s. Originally intended for another director, this spellbinding story only came under his care after global events reshaped its destiny.
Howl’s Moving Castle, like many other Ghibli films, finds its roots in a European children’s book, in this case Diana Wynne Jones’ 1986 book of the same name. It was an important book for the New Mythology movement, which is defined by the emergence of a new heroic archetype that transcends old cultural concepts and confronts them with modern ideals. The central character, Sophie Hatter, with her courage and determination in the face of difficulty, is an ideal New Mythology hero. Sophie also fits neatly into the Miyazaki canon of brave, capable female leads – with a unique and interesting twist. Miyazaki’s adaptation, however, adds his signature touch: a poignant anti-war message, breathtaking artistry, and one of Studio Ghibli’s rare adult romances.
Discover the twists, turns, and heart of Howl’s Moving Castle, a film that redefined bravery and love for generations.
Helen McCarthy is a writer and speaker on anime and manga. She’s been studying anime since 1981, writing over a dozen books, over a hundred articles and essays, and giving talks all over the world. Her talk on the Art History of Studio Ghibli has wowed audiences all over the UK for Seed Talks. Exploring Howl’s Moving Castle dives deep into the studio’s inspirations with new ideas and information for even the most dedicated Ghibli fan, but even a complete Ghibli beginner will enjoy this exploration of the film’s art, story, legacy and the people who made it.

Games: North Street Games Day
2025-08-25 12:00 - 23:00
Hosted by North Street Games – Bank Holiday Special Our games nights are great for individuals, couples and groups alike as we curate things at the start of the event, getting you playing as soon as possible with like-minded folks.
Just £3 to play, which includes an exclusive 10% off drinks and food!

Music: Phoenix River Band
2025-09-05 20:00 - 22:00 | Hen & Chicken Studio
The Phoenix Band return to Bristol, playing their accomplished brand of Americana rock and delving into songs from their extensive back catalogue. PRB’s very special guest support is the fabulous Harri Mason.
The Phoenix River Band play all original music merging Rock, R&B, Blues, Country Rock and Americana. Composing and playing songs with driving beats and soulful melodies, in a style associated with the likes of Fleetwood Mac, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Dire Straits, Tom Petty, The Allman Brothers, The Eagles and Chris Rea, the band successfully mixes roots and rock from both sides of the ‘Pond’. Phoenix River Band’s roots stretch back over 15 years, comprising a large back catalogue of original and varied songs stretching over five albums. The band has performed with many classic artists including Wishbone Ash, Love Revisited, 10cc, The Blockheads, The Yardbirds, Focus and Walter Trout.
Special guest Harri Mason is a Bristol-born singer-songwriter and she released three albums with all the music written, recorded and produced by her at home. With influences like Bruce Springsteen and Fleetwood Mac, Harri is able to curate a niche within Soft Rock and Folk that speaks to various audiences. She has been releasing new music this year, which has been well received and has been played on various radio stations, including BBC Bristol and Amazing Radio. http://www.harrimason.com/#Home

Comedy: FINLAY CHRISTIE
2025-09-06 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Stand Up For The Weekend with Finlay Christie featuring Jenny Collier plus compere Meryl O’Rourke
Stand Up For The Weekend is our flagship weekly comedy show from The Comedy Box, featuring top circuit headliners and guest acts plus incredibly funny and engaging comperes who host the show. A choice of table seats, reserved row seats and unreserved row seats are available to book online.

At 19, Finlay Christie became one of the youngest ever winners of the prestigious So You Think You’re Funny competition, following in the footsteps of Peter Kay, Lee Mack and Sarah Millican. 3 years later, his debut Edinburgh show “OK Zoomer” was nominated for NextUp’s “Best Show” award and was released as a special in October 2023, with over 365,000 views. His material, based around his experience as a Gen Z, led Chortle to describe him as “the voice of his generation”.

His 2024 Fringe show “I Deserve This” received multiple 5 star reviews, won the Entertainment Now “WoW” award and was nominated for the ISH “Best Show” award. The Guardian described it as “Comedy gold” and Edinburgh Festivals Magazine stated there was “Barely a single joke that wasn’t a fresh zinger.”

So what we are saying is, if you want to see a future stand up star in the making you’d better come along before he moves up to the enormo-rooms!

“Comedy gold… Pleasingly black-hearted wit.” The Guardian

Comedy: Olga Koch - OLGA KOCH COMES FROM MONEY
2025-09-08 20:00 - 22:00 | Hen & Chicken Studio
From the maker of Succession and White Lotus, Money™ brings you yet another little white b*tch you will love to hate: Olga Koch. The star of Live At The Apollo, Mock The Week and QI finally addresses the elephant in the room.
NOMINEE: Most Outstanding Show, Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2025
Directed by Jet Vevers

TALK: The Science of Trauma & The Body: The Psychosomatic Nature of Trauma
2025-09-09 19:30 - 21:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Discover how and why trauma manifests as physical symptoms and what we can do about it. Followed by Q&A.
Trauma is not just in your head! In fact, trauma can impact our whole bodies. We will explore what happens in our bodies during the survival response, how our nervous system responds and coordinates physiological responses throughout our body. We need these responses to survive, but what happens when we get ‘stuck’?
Discover what the implications are for our bodies, and crucially, what we can all do to help ourselves and those around us. When we understand how trauma and the body are intrinsically interconnected, we can understand how to heal, and reconnect to ourselves, those around us and to our environment.

Dr Susanna Petche is redefining trauma care and leading a movement for change. Founder of Trauma-Sense and creator of the C-Sense methodology, she blends neuroscience, functional medicine, and coaching to address the hidden effects of trauma. With 25+ years as a GP, she saw how unresolved trauma fuels many health issues, inspiring her to create training and resources for professionals, workplaces, and individuals. In October 2025, she will deliver a TEDx talk on the importance of acknowledging trauma. A sought-after speaker, she has shared stages with Dr Gabor Maté and Dr Rangan Chatterjee, challenging outdated approaches to health and healing.

Wednesday Night Improv: Triple Bill
2025-09-10 19:30 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Wednesday Night Improv’s monthly show continues with a triple bill packed with quick wit, bold characters, and stories made up on the spot.
Join us for a midweek comedy boost featuring three of Bristol’s sharpest improv acts – each one creating a brand-new show right before your eyes, all inspired by audience suggestions.
[1] THE GROUNDHOGS: THE IMPROVISED TIME-LOOPY SHOW
The Groundhogs are an improv-sketch group that will take a recent conversation you had with a loved one and show you every single way it could have gone. Hilarious, unpredictable, often cartoonish, and occasionally poignant, The Groundhogs are staples of the Bristol Improv scene for a reason.
[2] JAZZ POLICE: THE IMPROVISED SKETCH SHOW
American-style longform improv comedy troupe from Bristol. Having performed at the Edinburgh International Improv Festival and the Birmingham Comedy Festival, explore the world of improv through a hilarious compilation of scenes and bits as these masters of wit take one word and turn it into a show.
“Damn near perfect improv” – The Glasgow Improv Theatre
[3] PRESSURE COOKER: THE IMPROVISED RESTAURANT SHOW
Pressure Cooker whisks you into the chaos of a fictional restaurant where chefs, customers, and kitchen staff are all played by a dynamic ensemble. Using YOUR stories as ingredients, our performers cook up hilarious, unpredictable scenes every night. From meltdowns to menu mayhem, it’s comedy served hot and fast.
“Pure Comedic Alchemy” – Bristol 24/7
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Whether you’re a seasoned comedy fan or just curious about what happens when performers make it all up as they go, this is a perfect night to dive into Bristol’s thriving improv scene. Expect laughter, surprises, and something completely different – every single time.
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Part of the Wednesday Night Improv series – We’re on the second Wednesday of every month!

Comedy: Rob Mulholland - ALLEGATIONS
2025-09-10 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
“Allegations” is the debut tour from Rob Mulholland; seasoned stand-up comedian, podcaster (Dead Men Talking) and one of the kings of the North’s burgeoning DIY comedy scene. A wild, high-energy barrage of belly laughs covering all the topics you’re not really meant to talk about.

Not for the easily offended.
“Mulholland’s language and content may be a tad startling to some, but don’t be fooled into assuming that he’s some one-dimensional shock-comic looking to offend for notoriety’s sake. His material is clever, layered and acutely observed.” Joe.co.uk

Discovery Talk: Changing the Soundtrack of the Ocean
2025-09-11 19:00 - 23:00 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Marine biologist Steve Simpson, Professor of Marine Biology & Global Change at the University of Bristol, will take us on an adventure into the world of underwater acoustics in this fascinating talk. Tuning into the sounds of the ocean reveals amazing habitats and behaviours, but also highlights environments at risk. Discover how sound itself may hold the key to reversing some of the issues facing marine life, such as the ravages of climate change, overfishing and pollution.
Steve and his team use cutting edge acoustic technology to listen to the ocean and gain new insights into the extraordinary abundance of life beneath the waves. Tens of thousands of species of fish, marine mammals, crustaceans, mussels opening and closing, sea urchins and snapping clams all contribute to an incredible aquatic soundscape. But we are adding to this cheerful cacophony with human-made noise pollution.
Steve and his team have gained worrying insights into the changing health of precious habitats by listening to the ocean’s symphony in places as far flung as Indonesia, and Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Overfishing, climate change and pollution are all taking a toll on habitats and biodiversity. But all is not lost – through the use of sound, Steve’s team have found ways to encourage the restoration of habitats and measure their recovery. Steve’s message is one of optimism and active hope – through the use of technology, and also art, film and music, we can bring people together to rewrite the soundtrack of the ocean and create a better future.
“Listening to the ocean connects us to marine life, highlights the severity of human impacts, and gives us tools and stories to underpin active hope and build a better future.” Steve Simpson, Professor of Marine Biology & Global Change, University of Bristol
About the speaker
Prof. Steve Simpson teaches marine biology to hundreds of undergraduates and masters students, and leads a thriving research group consisting of 15 postdoc, PhD and Masters students, with active projects in the UK, Maldives, Egypt, Caribbean and Australia. He runs the MSc in Science Communication for a Better Planet at the University of Bristol. He was Series Academic Advisor to the BBC’s Blue Planet II and Netflix’s Our Oceans, and recently featured in the BBC’s Our Changing Planet. He gives public lectures and media interviews on marine biology, global impacts and potential solutions, and remains optimistic that we can work together to restore the oceans for a better future.
The event will be chaired by Miranda Krestovnikoff, TV presenter, diver and author.
Pre-show dining is available in the bar/restaurant downstairs at the Hen & Chicken, including a pizza/burger & drink offer for ticket holders. Please contact the Hen & Chicken direct to reserve your table for pre-show dining. Pre-Events Restaurant Offer – Hen & Chicken

Jazz: Andy Hague Quintet
2025-09-11 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Andy Hague – trumpet, Ben Waghorn – tenor sax, Jim Blomfield – piano, Riaan Vosloo – bass, Mark Whitlam – drums
Trumpeter Andy Hague returns from his summer break with the quintet to open the Be-Bop Club’s 25/26 season. The music will be a mixture of tunes from quintet album Coming of Age [2018], Andy’s 2021 quartet album Release and a few tunes from other current jazz composers.
“So impressed with this record, wow, it’s current, it’s hip” – Linley Hamilton, BBC Radio Ulster’s Jazz World. “it’s the variety of the musical structures deployed, as well as the sheer spirit and fire in these performances that makes this a significant milestone for Hague and his chums” – Peter Vacher, four star review in Jazzwise March 2019.
Well known in Bristol’s jazz scene, in 2019 Andy Hague played for the first time with legendary UK jazz composer Mike Westbrook as part of his Uncommon Orchestra, and post-Covid the band has appeared at Cheltenham and Cambridge Jazz Festivals, the Rossini Festival in Lugo, Italy and Ronnie Scott’s 2022 and 2023.
Long term associate saxophonist Ben Waghorn is a versatile musician who has worked in London’s West End and on many pop, TV and film recordings. He has been involved in a range of projects with Keith Tippett, including ‘Tapestry’, a piece written by Keith for two saxophone quartets and the BBC singers, the quartet ‘Work in Progress’ and The Keith Tippett Octet. He can also be heard on recordings with Geoff Eales and Dave Stapleton [Slowly Rolling Camera]. Ben has also recently performed with the BBC Big Band and played in Singapore with the London Concert Orchestra. Pianist Jim Blomfield has been a vital part of Bristol’s jazz scene for many years and has accompanied many of the UK’s best known players. He has released two trio CDs of his own compositions. “Jim Blomfield is the best British pianist you’ve never heard of and is an absolute marvel” – Independent on Sunday. Bassist Riaan Vosloo works regularly with saxophonist Ed Jones and runs the post-grad programme at BIMM Bristol music college. Drummer Mark Whitlam is head of the drum department at BIMM college and has played with big names such as Andy Sheppard and Iain Ballamy besides composing for his own projects.

Theatre: Murder 'Round Midnight
2025-09-12 19:00 - 20:00 | Hen & Chicken Studio
After a sell-out debut show, Murder ‘Round Midnight returns to Bristol this Autumn.
An original and immersive crime thriller set in the heart of the Bristol jazz scene, Murder ‘Round Midnight promises a totally unique and unforgettable evening.
When a musician is murdered in cold blood, an up-and-coming trumpet player sets out to find the truth. Could this be the work of the Dorian Collective, a group of shady musicians who run the jazz scene in the city? Or is there something more sinister at work?
Narrated live with a jazz quartet playing thematic music that follows every twist and turn of the story, Murder ‘Round Midnight promises an evening of music, mystery, and murder.
Please note, this performance contains descriptions of violence and may not be suitable for younger audiences.
The performance is approximately 70 minutes with no interval. Seating is unallocated.

Theatre: Murder ‘Round Midnight
2025-09-12 21:00 - 22:00 | Hen & Chicken Studio

Comedy: JACOB HAWLEY
2025-09-13 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Stand Up For The Weekend with Jacob Hawley Featuring Barnaby Slater, Jessie Nixon & compere Clint Edwards

Stand Up For The Weekend is our flagship weekly comedy show featuring top circuit headliners and guest acts plus incredibly funny and engaging comperes who host the show. A choice of table seats, reserved row seats and unreserved row seats are available to book online.

Headliner: JACOB HAWLEY
The versatile Jacob Hawley is an actor, writer and a comedian who has appeared in numerous TV shows including BBC sitcom Ladhood, ITV’s The Stand Up Sketch Show and Sky’s The Russell Howard Hour. He is intelligent, self-aware and explores themes of class and identity in the modern world expertly.

He has also written for The Sunday Times, The BBC, and is a regular columnist for The Metro.

​Plus, if that wasn’t enough, Jacob has two hit podcasts, Jacob Hawley: On Drugs, and Jacob Hawley: On Love, both on BBC Sounds. The series have had over half a million downloads and earned Jacob a SILVER ARIA AWARD FOR BEST NEW PRESENTER. Jacob also co-hosts the hugely popular Screen Rot Podcast with Jake Farrell.

​He has also created two Radio Four stand-up specials, Welcome To Britain, and Class Act, which broadcast to rave reviews.​
“Intelligent and important, his self-aware set sees him explore themes of class and identity in the modern world expertly.” The Sunday Post

Music: St Catherine's Child
2025-09-16 20:30 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
ST CATHERINE’S CHILD: “Softly stunning, mesmerising country-tinged indie” Holler
Transatlantic singer-songwriter Ilana Zsigmond AKA St Catherine’s Child is one of the rising stars of the Indie-Folk/Americana scene. She was invited into the Recording Academy as one of their ‘Class of 2024”.
Having signed to TRO Essex Music and Shamus Records in New York in late 2024, her debut album is This Might Affect You. The album’s songs tell the deeply personal and chronological story of enduring and recovering from the illness and death of her father. The A side chronicles the time leading up to his death, and the B side explores the aftermath of his passing and how she processed it.
Zsigmond decided to reach out to others who also had recently experienced loss and ask them to collaborate, and as a result, 10 of the 12 songs on the album are co-written with other songwriters. The songs on the album defy traditional genre classification and range from gun ballad to sea shanty to punk and beyond. The album’s title, This Might Affect You, is a reference to a construction planning notice Zsigmond saw during her father’s illness that encapsulated everything she was experiencing and processing, and how it affected her and everyone around her.

Jazz: Kevin Figes Ad Hoc Quartet
2025-09-18 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Kevin Figes – alto sax/flute, Dale Hambridge – piano, Matthew Read – bass, Andy Hague – drums
Due to illness, poor Brigitte Beraha has had to cancel the first part of her tour, so many thanks for the musicians above for stepping in at short notice. The great thing about the Bristol scene is that it is often possible to put a really strong line-up together at short notice.
Kevin Figes is of course a stalwart of the scene, endlessly creative and productive with his many projects, Pig Records label and now short film ventures. The band will probably mainly play standard material, but perhaps a couple of Kevin’s original tunes if a quick rehearsal is managed beforehand – just to be clear this line-up has been assembled especially for tonight’s gig and is not one of Kevin’s regular projects.

Comedy: Chris Kent OFFLINE
2025-09-19 20:00 - 23:00 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Cork’s own Chris Kent returns with a brand new show ‘Offline’.
He tries to give up the internet and navigate life without asking his phone what to eat, where to go or how to get home. He longs for a simpler time of playing ‘Snake’ and constructing emojis himself. Now that he has hit 40 years of age, he wonders if he can ever go back to thinking for himself. Join him on a journey that will either make him or break him.

Comedy: Dane Baptiste
2025-09-20 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Stand Up For The Weekend with Dane Baptiste featuring Jarred Christmas & Clint Edwards

Stand Up For The Weekend is our weekly flagship comedy show featuring top circuit headliners and guest acts plus incredibly funny and engaging comperes who host the show. A choice of table seats, reserved row seats and unreserved row seats are available to book online.
Headliner: DANE BAPTISTE

Original and provocative, Dane Baptiste is hailed as one of the most exciting acts to break in years. The London born stand up made comedy history in 2014 as the first Black British act to be nominated for a comedy award at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival for his debut stand up show Citizen Dane. Following this nomination, the show enjoyed incredible success at London’s Soho Theatre completing two sold out runs with additional dates added due to phenomenal demand. His second stand up show Reasonable Doubts was again met with huge critical acclaim and performed to sold out audiences at the 2015 Edinburgh Fringe, with his first nationwide solo tour following in 2016. In 2018 Dane set out on a massive world tour, covering numerous territories, with his smash hit third stand up hour G.O.D. (Gold. Oil. Drugs).

His extensive TV credits include Live at the Apollo (BBC Two), Mock the Week (BBC Two), 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown (Channel 4), The Stand Up Sketch Show (ITV2), Black, British and Funny (Channel 4), Frankie Boyle’s New World Order (BBC Two), Roast Battle (Comedy Central), Comedians Giving Lectures (Dave), Hypothetical (Dave), Tonight at the London Palladium (ITV1), Live from the BBC (BBC Three), Alan Davies: As Yet Untitled (Dave), Comedians Solve World Problems (Comedy Central) and more.
“A comical genius” Edinburgh Festivals Magazine

Music: Nigel Wearne
2025-09-22 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Solo performance
CRH Music invites you to a unique opportunity to experience a solo performance by Australian singer-songwriter / guitarist, Nigel Wearne.
Marking a return to his roots as a folk songwriter, he launches his latest album, ‘The Lone Reckoning’. A raw, emotive, stripped-back rendition of his 2023 award-nominated album ‘The Reckoning’.
Self-produced by Wearne, ‘The Lone Reckoning’ features the same 11 songs as the full band album with 3 additional bonus tracks, all recorded in their original form; solo and acoustic.
Nigel’s had a huge couple of years touring internationally, performing at some of the world’s most prestigious music festivals including Hardly Strictly Bluegrass (USA), Cambridge Folk Festival (UK), MerleFest (USA), Philadelphia Folk Festival (USA) and Adelaide Guitar Festival (Australia).
Hailing from Gunditjmara Country in the deep south of Australia, Nigel Wearne saunters after dark in the music of the night, blending blues, folk and Americana-noir. A deep thinker and truth seeker with a penchant for all things peculiar, he sings of human frailty, grace and the cosmos; songwriting that cuts to the bone.
“Tailor made for fans of Tom Waits… with fire and brimstone lyrics that recall Nick Cave” – Rhythms Magazine
“Poignant and mysterious” – Maverick Magazine UK
“Vocal swagger of Van Morrison and dark spirituality and intelligence of Nick Cave” 4 STARS – The Australian

Nigel blends his influences, creating music that weaves its way through blues. jazz and Ameriana-noir.

Heading

Jazz: James Borland Quartet
2025-09-25 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
James Borland – trumpet, Nick Manz – piano, Ben Love – bass, Kai Chareunsy – drums.
Trumpeter James Borland first visited the club in Nov 23 as part of the Birmingham based sextet Abacus led by Liam Brennan, and impressed greatly with his warm sound and inventive phrasing. James was recently seen in national media performing with Bostin Brass, the band picked to lead the funeral cortège for Ozzy Osbourne.
One of the most in-demand young musicians of the vibrant Birmingham jazz scene, his characterful improvising speaks both of his love of the jazz tradition and also the forward-thinking melodicism of contemporary NY figureheads such as Ambrose Akinmusire and Immanuel Wilkins. His quartet brings together an impressive young rhythm section who share his love of free-flowing, exciting jazz music, featuring sought-after bass and drum team Ben Love and Kai Chareunsy, and BBC Young Jazz Musician finalist Nick Manz on piano. The quartet play James’ original music, alongside carefully selected favourites from jazz pioneers.

Comedy: Stephen Bailey TART
2025-09-26 20:00 - 23:00 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Star of BBC’s Live at the Apollo, Would I Lie To You? and Channel 5’s The Madame Blanc Mysteries, comedian and TV’s Stephen Bailey makes a very welcome return to the stage with his brand new live show, TART, touring in 2025.

Comedy: STUART GOLDSMITH
2025-09-27 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Stand Up For The Weekend with Stuart Goldsmith featuring Joe Sutherland & compere Adam Beardsmore.

Stand Up For The Weekend is our weekly flagship comedy show featuring top circuit headliners and guest acts plus incredibly funny and engaging comperes who host the show. A choice of table seats, reserved row seats and unreserved row seats are available to book online.
Headliner: STUART GOLDSMITH

Stuart Goldsmith is an internationally award-winning comedian, writer, podcaster and host. With a reputation for smart, accessible stand-up, Stuart’s enthusiasm and natural charm conceal a quick wit and fearlessness honed by his early career as a street performer. Surprisingly candid about his exploits, sexploits and textploits, Stuart likes to get his teeth into love, romance and the downside of getting what you want.

“A charming, expert stand-up” Sunday Times
In recent years, Stuart is probably better known as the “climate change comedian” where he exposes the inevitable hyprocrisies in confronting the challenges facing all humans living in a more sustainable society. Recycling stories have never been funnier – that’s stories about recycling not Stuart digging out the old routines, by the way! So whether you’re frozen in fear or glued to the road, come and get unstuck as Stuart explores how to hold hope in your heart despite absolutely everything.
“He infuses the material with a sly wit and underplayed sharpness, not to mention eloquent writing. This is smooth, smart and absorbing stand-up.” Chortle

Talk: The Psychology of EMDR Therapy: Rewiring memories
2025-09-29 19:00 - 21:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Have you ever wondered how our brains process and heal from life’s toughest moments? Many of us carry unresolved experiences—whether it’s a difficult breakup, childhood criticism, or a lingering fear—that can quietly block our confidence, relationships, or success.
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a groundbreaking therapeutic approach designed to help people move past trauma, anxiety, and other emotional hurdles.
In this talk, you’ll discover how EMDR works—by using a combination of focused attention and guided eye movements to “unblock” the trauma stored in the brain and release emotional pain. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR taps into the brain’s natural ability to heal, offering relief often in a shorter timeframe.
Trauma expert Shelly Bradley-Scholey will explore real-world success stories and explain why EMDR has become a trusted tool for millions worldwide. Whether you’re curious about new ways to heal or want to understand how the mind can overcome its deepest struggles, this talk will open your eyes to the possibilities of modern therapy.
About your host:
Shelley Bradley-Scholey is a UK-based trauma expert, accredited EMDR Consultant, BABCP-certified CBT therapist, and Registered Mental Health Nurse with over 20 years of experience in mental health, including 13 years in Defence Mental Health Services. She holds a MSc in CBT Research from the University of Oxford and is the founder of Fortitude Psychological Therapy, offering trauma-focused therapy, supervision, and teaching. A guest lecturer at Oxford and Exeter Universities, published author, and public speaker, Shelley integrates EMDR, Beckian CBT, and Compassion-Focused Therapy into her survivor-centered, compassionate approach to healing.

CANCELLED : ELENA GABRIELLE DISTURB - THE VIBE
2025-10-01 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Elena Gabrielle, international comedy queen, chaos merchant, and all-around vibe saboteur—is back with her vibey-iest show yet: “Disturb the Vibe”

Get ready for vibe checks, vibe confessions, and vibe revelations as Elena Gabrielle flips the script, disturbs the vibe, and leaves you questioning everything you thought you knew about relationships, stereotypes, and the legacies we leave behind.

It’s time to embrace the chaos.

Elena Gabrielle’s satirical look on modern relationships teamed with her uproarious musicality has seen her steal the show from Canada to South Africa.

This Australian born European based comedian appeals to sold out audiences across the globe with her witty, no-holds barred approach to stand-up comedy and because of this, has seen her go viral with 40 million plus views on YouTube to date.

Her embarrassing date stories are delivered in an intuitive storytelling style which cuts through cultural divides and is enjoyed globally. After touring non-stop for 3 years with ‘Story Party Tour’ (which saw her perform over 700 shows in that time and in 65 countries) and sold-out runs with her 2 solo tours “DIRRTY” in 2021/22 and “Addickted” in 2023, Elena is back on tour in 2024 with her new show “OK!?”

“Elena Gabrielle captured the audience with her dynamic stage presence” – Pop Culture-y
