Talk: The History of Greek Mythology: From Mount Olympus to modern mystery
2026-04-29 19:00 - 21:30 UTC | Hen & Chicken Studio
From Mount Olympus to Medusa, discover the fascinating history of Greek mythology and its echoes through the ages. Followed by Q&A.

For over two thousand years, Greek mythology has shaped Western imagination. Stories of Olympian gods, epic heroes, and fearsome monsters have inspired philosophers and poets, painters and playwrights, filmmakers and fans alike. We’ve seen Homeric epics to the spectacle of Troy and the bold reinvention of myth in Netflix’s Kaos. Every retelling places us in an unbroken chain of storytellers stretching back to antiquity, keeping ancient voices alive in the modern world. But how well do we really know the origins of these tales?
In this talk, Dr Shelby Judge explores the great mythic ages of ancient Greece – the Golden and Silver Ages, the Bronze Age, and the Age of Heroes – bringing to life the defining stories and figures of each era. Along the way, the talk asks a deeper question: why have these myths endured? By examining their archetypes, moral tensions, and enduring insights into the human condition, this talk reveals why Greek mythology continues to fascinate, challenge, and enchant us today.
Doors open at 7pm, talk starts at 7.30pm – come down early to grab a good seat!
Speaker Bio:
Dr Shelby Judge is a Lecturer in Creative and Cultural Industries at the University of Derby, where she researches digital feminist and popular feminist responses to Incels and the Manosphere. She recently completed her PhD in English Literature at the University of Glasgow, producing the thesis Contemporary Feminist Adaptations of Greek Myth, and her work in this field is ongoing due to the genre’s proliferating nature. Shelby has published on topics including #MeToo and the Trojan War, 21st-century adaptations of Helen of Troy, transgender adaptations of Frankenstein, and transgender readings of Ovid.
She has delivered public lectures on toxic masculinity in Greek myth and sea monsters in Scottish folklore, and is a regular contributor to the Literary Encyclopedia, where she has written on the poetry of Carol Ann Duffy and Margaret Atwood, as well as entries on Laura Bates and Janice Hallett. She also serves as a committee member for the Transatlantic Literary Women network, funded by the US Embassy and BAAS.

Talk: Getting Away with Murder: Why some murders stay unsolved
2026-04-30 19:00 - 22:00 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Every crime tells a story. But not every story ends with justice.

Behind every closed case and every cold file lies a question we can’t quite let go of… how did they get away with it?
In this series, we’ll uncover the truth behind the world’s most baffling crimes… where evidence was missed, witnesses were silenced, and the guilty walked free. We’ll explore the psychology of deception, the flaws in forensic science, and the fragile line between guilt and innocence. Because when the system breaks, it’s not just the victims who suffer — it’s our faith in justice itself.
Join Dr. Friday, as we go beyond the headlines… and into the minds of those who got away with murder.

Dr Friday earned his PhD at the University of Greenwich and went on to lead their forensic psychology course for the Criminology Department.
His experimental research earned him the ‘doctor’ title and several academic awards, but he’s very much just Ross when bringing the darker edges of human behaviour to the public. With pitch-black humour and personal stories, he makes complex forensic psychology accessible, entertaining — and sometimes even hilarious. He’s created live shows, a book, and even an immersive crime scene experience that lets guests step into the macabre world of the serial killer.

Jazz: Nils Kavanagh Trio
2026-04-30 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Award-winning Irish/Danish pianist Nils Kavanagh launches his highly anticipated debut album, “No Expectations”. Winner of the Young Irish Jazz Musician of the Year Award 2022-2024 and finalist in the BBC Young Jazz Musician 2024, Nils is already making his mark on contemporary improvised music. Audiences will journey through Nils’ unique upbringing, rooted in the north-west of Ireland’s mystic landscapes and joyous fellowship, while also inviting listeners to explore the sense of unity and introspection present in Denmark and broader Scandinavia. Home, joy, family, mythology, folk music, loss and longing are all key to the music, with an overarching focus on warm melody and musical storytelling.
The trio has an energetic and explorative sound, with a taste for strong melodies, bright harmonies and explosive rhythms influenced by Kavanagh’s Irish and Danish roots. With Ursula Harrison (BBC Young Jazz Musician winner 2024) on bass and Sam Green on drums, the group brings a new flavour to the classic piano trio format, presenting a diverse mix of music ranging from compositions inspired by Celtic traditional music and contemporary jazz from Scandinavia and the UK, to modern interpretations of jazz repertoire and other popular music.
“There is beauty, there is communication, there is space, and there is energy” – Daniel Rorke, Jazz Ireland album review
“A strikingly mature debut. Kavanagh and his colleagues give the compositions room to breathe and grow and the interplay between the three instruments is highly developed and richly detailed” – The JazzMann

Comedy: Signing Funny - An evening of comedy performed in sign language
2026-05-01 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Join us for an evening of signing funny – acclaimed deaf comedian Gavin Lilley (John Bishop tour support, Leicester Comedy Festival) is joined by international deaf comedy superstar from Sweden, Florian Tirnovan (Flow TV) and local comedian Adrian Bailey for an evening of irreverent and sharp comedy – all performed in sign language – interpreted into English for the signing impaired.

Live Music: Juliet Lloyd
2026-05-01 20:00 - 23:00 | Chicken Shed
We are thrilled to welcome back singer-songwriter Juliet Lloyd for an intimate performance in The Chicken Shed.

After a decade-long hiatus, Juliet Lloyd returned to music in 2020 and Carnival (2024) was her fouth album – it reflects her folk-rooted storytelling with pop sensibilities and melodies.
Juliet Lloyd is an acclaimed singer/songwriter who splits her time between the DC region and Nashville and has garnered comparisons to Brandi Carlile, Aimee Mann, and Tori Amos for her signature blend of soulful, roots-infused folk/pop. Across her 20-year career as a writer and artist, Juliet has released four studio albums, garnering placements on television shows on MTV and VH1 and airplay on more than 175 radio stations across the country. Her 2024 full-length album Carnival has been hailed by reviewers for its “evocative storytelling and raw honesty” and “powerfully emotive performance from start to finish.” It features nine songs that “movingly and poetically tell of broken hearts and loneliness yet finds brightness in its melodies and in the luster of Lloyd’s voice.” Juliet’s songwriting and performance chops have earned her top honors in the 2022 Bernard/Ebb Songwriting Awards and Mid-Atlantic Song Contest, four “Wammie” finalist nods, and multiple prestigious national songwriter awards across the past several years. Both solo and with her band, Juliet has performed 150+ shows a year since 2020, including festivals and listening rooms across the US and UK.
Her shows are described by audiences as being both intimate and electrifying.

Music: Never The Bride
2026-05-02 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
At the heart of Never The Bride are two trailblazing women: powerhouse vocalist Nikki Lamborn — hailed by Roger Daltrey as “the best female rock voice since Janis Joplin” — and Catherine “Been” Feeney, the band’s primary composer, keyboardist, and occasional guitarist. Together, they craft music with grit, grace, and passion, supported by a world-class lineup of musicians.
Their career reads like a rock and roll hall of fame — sharing stages with legends such as The Who, Robert Plant, Elton John, Paul Rodgers, Eric Clapton, and Beth Hart. Their unforgettable rendition of Going to California on Encomium: A Tribute to Led Zeppelin earned them a gold disc, further cementing their place in music history.
BBC’s Bob Harris, a long-time supporter, introduced their live album Long Live Live with these words: “I was absolutely struck by their brilliant musicianship, their passion, their commitment — they really, mean it. They are one of the best live bands in Britain today.

Music: Riff Raff Daytime Choir
2026-05-06 11:00 - 13:00 | Hen & Chicken Studio
A daytime a cappella choir, perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy music, connection, and creativity without the late nights.

Why daytime singing works:
Boost your mood & energy for the rest of the day
Great for mental wellbeing — singing reduces stress and lifts your mindset
Fits around school runs, shift work, or flexible schedules
Easier travel — no rushing in the dark or battling evening traffic
A social highlight — meet like-minded people and still have your evenings free
Wake up your voice — your vocals are fresh and ready to go!
And of course…
What you’ll get:
Rock & pop hits (all a cappella — no instruments!)
A relaxed, no-pressure environment
No auditions — just bring your voice
A chance to learn harmonies, improve confidence, and have fun
When: Wednesday 11am-1pm
Where: Hen and Chicken

Whether you’re carving out “you time,” looking for a creative outlet, or simply want to start your day on a high note – this choir is for you.

Music: Open Mic Night
2026-05-06 20:00 - 23:30 | Chicken Shed
Our monthly open mic night is hosted by Larkham & Hall in our friendly, welcoming, intimate music space, The Chicken Shed.
If you wish to play, please get in touch via our dedicated Facebook page The Hen & Chicken Open Mic. (linked in the ‘Book Now’ button)
Come and join the fun, soak up the vibes, and enjoy the music. Free entry.

Comedy:Simon Evans - Staring at the Sun
2026-05-07 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Simon Evans is Back! Waaaay back…

With growing evidence that we are living in a Computer Simulation – and a pretty glitchy, off-brand simulation at that – and the approaching watershed of the AI Singularity looming like a weirdly pixelated cumulo-nimbus on the horizon, BBC Radio 4 stalwart and veteran of a quarter century of highly acclaimed stand-up comedy Simon Evans is squinting at an uncertain future, and revisiting the blue remembered hills of his youth.

The analogue world of hitch-hiking, pub bets and hedge porn. Of being able to get properly lost. And also pondering the great thinkers and mystics of the past who had, it seems, the same doubts and misgivings about “reality”, back when an adjustable sandal passed for cutting-edge tech.

Jazz: Walrws - 60s Pop Classics with a Jazz Twist
2026-05-07 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
The band consists of 4 musicians with many accolades and performances throughout Britain and abroad.
With a recording soon to be released the band are performing with their new Welsh spelling name, and will play a selection of their pad which will take you through tunes by artists ranging from The Beach Boys, The Monkees, Bob Dylan, Simon and Garfunkel and of course The Beatles. The essence of the originals is maintained but the quartet have added in the spontaneous and care free approach which is also attached to this great era.
Pembrokeshire Online live review by Nigel Summerley from Aber Jazz Festival:
Guitarist James Chadwick led the band through a series of inspired improvisations on tunes familiar to those of a certain age, but taking them into unfamiliar territory. Bob Dylan’s Mr Tambourine Man, Paul Simon’s Sound Of Silence, the Beatles’ Blackbird and the Brian Wilson’s God Only Knows were revealed as fertile ground for jazz – perhaps not surprising, given the genius of their composers. But even the Monkees’ Daydream Believer became a fascinating musical exploration.
Mark Sambell on piano and Aidan Thorne on bass proved to be masters of invention, but it was the fierce and focused drumming of Liz Exell that kept the musical fire burning throughout and made this a very special gig.
[Nigel Summerley retired from The Oldie magazine to return to freelance journalism. He previously held executive staff jobs at the London Evening Standard amongst others.]

Comedy: NATALIE CUOMO LIVE
2026-05-08 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Natalie Cuomo is an internationally touring stand-up comedian. Her debut album, Shut Up You Loved It released by The Stand Comedy Club Records, debuted at #1 on the iTunes comedy charts.

Natalie can be seen on Ink Master: No More Ink! Season 16 on Paramount Plus. Natalie was named a Finalist in New York Comedy Festival’s “New York’s Funniest” Competition in 2024, and one of the festival’s “Comics To Watch” in 2023. Natalie has amassed millions of followers across social media. She has been featured in Inked Magazine, New York Magazine, Time Out NY, Metal Injection, and LA Times.

Follow her @nataliecuomo_ on instagram and @nataliecuomo on TikTok, Twitch, and Twitter.

Talk: The History of Punk, Goth & Alternative Fashion
2026-05-11 19:30 - 21:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Explore how punk, goth and alternative fashion turned clothing into protest and whether style still has the power to rebel today. With Q&A.

Have you ever been judged for what you’re wearing? Ever dressed a certain way to belong, to provoke, or to push back? Can an outfit really be an act of rebellion?
From the 1950s onwards, British youth culture turned clothing into protest. Teddy Boys shocked post-war Britain with Edwardian revival suits and rock ‘n’ roll attitude. Mods and Rockers clashed on seaside promenades. Then punk exploded out of economic crisis and political disillusionment – ripped fabrics, safety pins and DIY slogans all exuded anti-establishment energy. By the 80s, goth and alternative subcultures emerged and continued to captivate young and old alike.
In this talk, we’ll explore the history and politics of fashion through punk, goth and alternative style: how subcultures form and why they’re labelled rebellious. Together, we’ll trace how clothing became the language of resistance and ask whether dressing differently still has the power to disrupt.
Doors open at 7pm, talk starts at 7:30pm – come down early to grab a good seat!
Dr Nathaniel Weiner is a Senior Lecturer in Cultural Studies at Central Saint Martins (University of the Arts London). He holds a PhD in Communication & Culture from York University and Ryerson University’s joint program. His research interests include consumption, digital cultures, masculinity, menswear and style subcultures. He is currently researching subcultural style in heritage menswear branded content, Japanese vintage reproduction subcultures, and the Blitz Club. Nathaniel has published in The European Journal of Cultural Studies, The International Journal of Fashion Studies, Men and Masculinities and Punk and Post-Punk. His monograph Sharp Dressed Men: Menswear, Masculinity and Consumption Online is forthcoming from Palgrave Macmillan.

Comedy: Ashley Gavin - Big Momma
2026-05-12 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
After a smash hit sellout debut UK tour in 2024, Ashley Gavin returns with her brand new show, Big Momma.

Ashley has been featured on Comedy Central, Netflix, Just For Laughs, and more. Her critically acclaimed YouTube special has amassed over 1 million views. She’s best known for her viral social media clips, where her bold, raw audience interactions, authenticity, and relentless energy set her apart. Her latest hour, “Big Momma” focuses on her fertility journey and getting pregnant as a masculine lesbian.

Ashley’s Edinburgh Fringe debut made the British Comedy Guide’s list of Best Reviewed shows in 2024. Deadline praised her show My Therapist Is Dying as “a hilarious yet arresting hour… one of the hottest tickets at the Fringe”, while Broadway Baby described it as “a performance that is nothing short of extraordinary”. EdFest Magazine deemed it “a raw, hilarious, and emotionally charged journey”.

Theatre: Wednesday Night Improv - Anniversary Special!
2026-05-13 19:30 - 21:45 | Chicken Shed
Wednesday Night Improv’s monthly show celebrates one year with a special containing your favourite performers from some of the best shows appearing at WNI over the past year.
Expect quick wit, bold characters, games and stories made up on the spot. All inspired by your suggestions.
## YOUR PERFORMERS FOR THE EVENING ##
– Alex (representing What’s Your Starsign?)
– Anna (representing Birdwatchers)
– Gemma (representing G&T)
– Holly (representing The Bish Bosh Bash)
– Jack (representing The Groundhogs)
– Katie (representing Beansville)
– Marie (representing Pressure Cooker)
– Ros (representing Real Positive Poles)
– Theo (representing Last Day on Earth)
– Tim (representing Jazz Police)
And your host, Ste Brown (representing himself… and bald men from Derby).
—
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.
—

Comedy: Ashley Gavin- Big Momma
2026-05-13 20:00 - 22:00 | Hen & Chicken Studio

Jazz: Ray D'Inverno's Quintessential Groove
2026-05-14 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
We’re pleased to welcome back veteran pianist Ray D’Inverno who last visited in Oct 2024. The previous year 2023 was a milestone for Ray as he reached 80 years of age, and celebrated his birthday with a sell-out gala concert at Southampton’s Turner Sims concert hall featuring Quintessential Groove with special guests including his son Mark D’Inverno [also a pianist] and tenor sax star Ed Jones.
Quintessential Groove has been booked for Swanage Jazz Festival in July 26, so this is something of a warm-up gig for that prestigious event.
Ray is based near Dorchester, but for many years ran Southampton Jazz Club alongside his career as a Professor of Mathematics and General Relativity at Southampton University. Ray has performed alongside many of the UK’s greatest players, and has released recordings featuring Jim Mullen, Stan Sulzmann, Tony Roberts and many more. He has been leading his current band Quintessential Groove for the past decade. Tonight they will be playing music from their recent CD release All In The Same Boat, which features eleven of Ray’s melodic but rhythmically varied compositions.
The band consists of highly rated Canadian saxophonist Terry Quinney [Sound of BlueNote], Andy Hague – trumpet, Ray D’Inverno – piano, with Bristol’s Will Harris stepping in on bass. We’re also very pleased to have local legend Tony Orrell guesting on drums, who whilst a regular fixture up at Bristol Music Club in Clifton has not played at the Be-Bop for many years.
You can listen to Ray’s extensive back catalogue on Bandcamp.

Live Music: Robert Vincent.
2026-05-14 20:00 - 23:00 | Hen & Chicken Studio
We are excited to welcome Robert Vincent to the Hen & Chicken for an intimate performance, as a trio.
Announced as winner of the 2025 UK Song Of The Year – UK Americana Association Awards for his song, Follow What You Love & Love Will Follow. There is considerable excitement surrounding Robert Vincent – his captivating live performances and his recent album, Barriers.
Music critics have declared that this album removes the constraints of category.
It is Vincent’s powerful and soulful voice that has continually attracted acolytes such as Bob Harris, Paul Carrack, Robert Plant and Mary Chapin Carpenter.
Announced as winner of UK Song of The Year at the UK Americana Music Association Awards 2025 for his track ‘Follow What You Love & Love Will Follow’ alongside a highly coveted nomination for UK Artist of The Year, Robert Vincent continues to enthral audiences and critics alike, showing his versatility as both a solo performer and with a full band.
Most recently receiving the invitation to support Robert Plant & band Saving Grace across their UK and European Tour dates, there is an ever-growing excitement surrounding Robert Vincent, his captivating live performances and his new album.
The Liverpool singer/songwriter released his fourth studio album ‘Barriers’ in June 2024 to critical acclaim spending multiple weeks in the Country Music Charts nestled between Beyonce and Taylor Swift – but it was reaching the top 10 of both the Independent Album Chart and Record Store Chart that really gave Vincent reason to celebrate, with critics removing the constraints of category, declaring:
“Barriers’ is a masterful album that blends introspection with musical sophistication, cementing Robert Vincent’s place as one of the UK’s finest songwriters. His music, deeply rooted in personal and social narratives, continues to resonate widely, securing his place in the pantheon of great Liverpudlian artists” Entertainment Focus

Comedy: SOPHIE GARRAD POOR LITTLE RICH GIRL
2026-05-15 20:00 - 22:00 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Poor Little Rich Girl is a tongue and cheek love letter to Sophie Garrad’s chaotic childhood. Think nannies, ski slopes, outrageous diary entries, even more outrageous pets, oh – and the day she was driven to private school in a police car. This high-energy, razor-sharp stand-up hour sees Sophie satirize her own experiences of class, identity, privilege and the prison system.

Sophie is best known for her ‘Private School Mum’ and ‘London Girlies’ sketches – which have generated over 100 million views online.
“Garrad is a truly gossipy storyteller, amused and amusing, engaging impishly with the crowd, airily witty in her constant asides” ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ The Scotsman

Comedy: Stand Up For The Weekend with Jeremy Flynn
2026-05-16 20:00 - 22:00 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Stand Up For The Weekend with Jeremy Flynn featuring Andrew White & Tom Toal

Headliner: JEREMY FLYNN
Jeremy Flynn is a naturally funny comedian who after starting comedy in 2015 quickly made a name for himself as one of the best acts on the lively Bristol comedy scene. Since then he has gone on to delight audiences around the country with his unique mix of idiosyncratic observations and hilarious anecdotes leaving audiences in metaphorical stitches. He is now in high demand at some of the best and most prestigious comedy clubs in the UK.

“Routines written with ruthless efficiency, delivered in a punchy relaxed style with sparkling payoffs” Farcical Comedy

“Detailed, illustrated, and very funny indeed” From the Margins

Featuring ANDREW WHITE

With “charisma to burn and an eye for sharp punchlines” (British Comedy Guide), Andrew White is an in-demand comedian, writer and radio host who has built a strong reputation as a name to look out for.

Andrew performs year-round on all of the country’s top comedy stages, from famous clubs to packed out festival tents, and even picked up a 2025 Best Show Nomination for his last Fringe show at the Leicester Comedy Festival! Away from live work, he has written for projects like Mock the Week (BBC2) & Julian Clary’s new radio show (BBC R4); and has amassed an online following with over 2m likes and 12m views on platforms like TikTok.
​​”A plethora of memorable gags” Chortle
“Rampantly engaging” The List

Music: Xpress Fest Grand Finale
2026-05-17 14:00 - 23:00 | Chicken Shed
Seven days… Seven events giving back… It was all building up to this. Come join Xpress Fest for our grand finale of exceptional local music talent, all to raise funds for vital mental health charities, one of which is Mind Your Music whose founders you may also know as Sarah and Elliott, hosts of our open mic night.
Express Fest is Bristol’s newest grassroots music and comedy festival running from 11 May to 17 May. The line-up at the Hen is:
Paul Antony Brookshaw AKA Tall Paul
The man who puts himself into self-expression.
Watch Paul on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DWzGYqMDN6p/
Feud
This funky, fun 5-piece is part of the Bristol Youth Studios project created by Bristol Beacon for 13 – 18-year-old singers and musicians.Watch Feud on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DWtGNYniCbt/
Band of Buggers
A chaotic affair of silliness, slapstick and singing accompanied by a uniquely bluesy whisky sound.
Watch Band of Buggers on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DEHp5NquZzU/
Pilot Scheme
Earworms and mind treats from the Bristol story-song guy and a nice line in audience participation.
Listen on Bandcamp: https://thebighowever.bandcamp.com/track/static-caravan-single
Odessa Steps
The West Country’s observant tunesmiths that blend catchy folk with other flavours.
Watch on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reel/4362095210672714
Bethany Jane
Bethany is Bethany: a singer-songwriter of immense emotional power with a gorgeous voice.
Watch on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reel/3989176168037509
The Open Mic Surgeons
Pilot Scheme and buddies become The Open Mic Surgeons in a brassy voiced romp from New Orleans of the 30s to the Talking Heads era of New York.
Sam Elliott
We’re privileged to host the debut performance by very talented Bristol songwriter Sam Elliott. Expect beautifully melodic, poetic song in the mould of Waterboys, Doves and Prefab Sprouts.

Comedy: Mel Moon & Tal Davies BYOB (Bing Your Own Bestie) - WORK-IN-PROGRESS
2026-05-17 19:30 - 21:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
When viral online sensation Mel Moon (over 300 million views) asked her bestie, comedian Tal Davies (BBC Three/Radio 4) if she fancied a girl’s night out, Tal was well up for it.

What Mel didn’t fully explain was that she was inviting all of you out with them. Bring your bestie and prepare to sing, dance, drink, and most importantly LAUGH with two of the UK’s most relatable, frazzled middle aged (yes Tal 35 is middle aged) women. If nothing else, you’ll feel better about your own life.
“[Mel is] Victoria Wood with ATTITUDE” – The Telegraph

Talk: Horror Movies, Sexuality & Power
2026-05-18 19:30 - 21:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Discover how horror movies reveal hidden stories of sexuality, fear and identity across classic and modern cinema. Followed by Q&A.

Sex and horror have always been intertwined. While the genre has often been criticised as exploitative or moralising – particularly toward women – it has also created a powerful space for audiences to explore their own stories of desire, fear and identity.
In this thought-provoking talk, Katie Evans draws on psychoanalysis, queer theory and film history to uncover the hidden narratives within some of our most beloved horror films. From classic monsters like Dracula and The Bride of Frankenstein to Psycho, Hellraiser and It Follows, we’ll examine how themes of shame, pleasure and survival play out on screen.
Whether you’re drawn to horror, fascinated by identity, or curious about sexuality, this talk invites you to consider what horror narratives really represent. Together, we’ll explore ideas on sexual development, kink and queerness – and how horror films can reflect the parts of ourselves we’re taught to hide, revealing our complex relationship with otherness and what we can fear is the “monstrous” within.
Doors open at 7pm, talk starts at 7:30pm – come down early to grab a good seat!
Speaker Bio:
Katie Evans is a BACP-accredited therapist and self-confessed horror nerd. Her passion for all things spooky began in childhood and continued through her studies in music, film, and media at Liverpool University, before moving into the field of mental health. She holds advanced accreditation in GSRD Therapy (Gender, Sexuality, and Relationship Diversity). In addition, Katie has presented at conferences across Europe and has spoken for organisations including The Maudsley, the British Psychological Society, The NHS, LGBT Foundation, and HMPPS, among others. She is also a registered guest lecturer at Liverpool John Moores University. An advocate for using pop culture in psychotherapy, Katie previously hosted The Mental Health Monsters Podcast and continues to explore how fictional narratives – especially those from the horror genre – can help us better understand ourselves.
This talk is 18+

Film: In Our Hands: Film & Panel on Food Futures
2026-05-19 19:00 - 21:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
The MAZI Project is very excited to be celebrating the 10 year anniversary of ‘In Our Hands’.
In Our Hands (2017) is a feature length documentary that tells the story behind the blood, sweat and tears of the farmers who are outgrowing the industrial food system in the wake of Brexit. At the heart of all change lies a story and In Our Hands is the story of a new kind of farm, a new kind of food and a new kind of society.
Followed by a panel discussion focusing on the power of growing food in an increasingly unstable landscape. Using the 10th anniversary since Brexit’s as our start point, we will be asking our speakers “Has the instability throughout the last 10 years and today’s geo-politics
created an opportunity for local food systems to be taken seriously at a national policy level?”
This panel discussion will draw into focus how the unstable global, social and political landscapes of the past 10 years is making it more and more difficult for our government to ignore the importance of addressing food security. We will be bringing The MAZI Project lens, representing food justice, reinforcing successful food security exists when all people have consistent access to nutritious and culturally appropriate food, not just those on a high income.
We will be hosting experienced speakers from farming, policy and community backgrounds to curate a robust and reflective conversation.
Doors open at 6:30
Film screen 7:00 – 8:10
Pannel discussion 8:10-9:15
Q&A 9:15-9:30
This experience is part of The MAZI Project’s series of events marking World Hunger Day, under the theme “Together for Joyful Resilience.”
By coming together around the table, sharing stories, and celebrating nourishing food, we are asking Bristol to join us in solidarity with support young people affected by poverty and exclusion feel love and care through the power of food and community.
Together, we can make joy an act of resilience and create a community where no young person is left behind!
Film Credits:
Directors: Joanne Barker and Sylvie Planel
Producers: Humphrey Lloyd and Holly Black
Editor: Jo Barker
Camera: Jason Brooks
Additional Camera: Nick Street, Matthias Ashford
Illustrations: Rosanna Morris
Animations: Tashina Alam
Grade: Jason Brooks
Original Score: Ben Osborn
Sound mix and design: Gary Fawle
Narration recorded at Ape Studios, Bristol
Archive: Shutterstock, La Via Campesina, The Landworkers’ Alliance

Comedy: Stuart McPherson - Crisps And A Lie Down
2026-05-21 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Join Scottish comedy powerhouse Stuart McPherson for his critically-acclaimed new show about settling down, growing up and how he’s being controlled by his step-dog.

In this sensational hour, the host of smash-hit podcast Some Laugh and star of BBC Scotland’s Scot Squad pokes fun at 30-something relationships, generational divides and why he doesn’t want to die surrounded by loved ones.
“Hilarious” Comedy.co.uk
“Remarkable hit-rate” Rolling Stone.

Jazz: Emile Hinton Trio
2026-05-21 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Emile Hinton is an award-winning jazz pianist and composer emerging from the heart of the London jazz scene. A mentee of renowned UK pianist Julian Joseph, he graduated with first-class honours from Trinity Laban Conservatoire and recently spent three months at the Tribeca Jazz Institute in NYC, studying with some of New York’s top musicians. In 2023, Emile was honoured with the Tina May Musician’s Company Young Jazz Musician of the Year.
As the pianist for jazz legends Ricky Ford (Charles Mingus, Ellington Orchestra) and Jazz Messenger Jean Toussaint (Art Blakey, McCoy Tyner), Emile has performed at top venues across the UK and Europe, including Ronnie Scott’s, The Jazz Café, The Barbican and Pizza Express, working with their ensembles and leading his own diverse projects across multiple genres. He has just released his debut album which features contemporary and swinging original compositions.
Bassist Toby Yapp was a student at Bristol Cathedral School and attended Bristol Pre-Conservatoire before gaining a place on the Royal Academy jazz course. Having graduated a few years back he is now a regular fixture on the London scene, so lovely to welcome him back to Bristol as an established professional.
Kai MacRae is one of London’s leading young drummers who has performed with Joe Webb, Rachel Cohen, Sultan Stevenson and many more.

Comedy: Joe List - Live On Tour
2026-05-24 20:00 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
Joe List is a stand-up comedian, writer and actor whose movie FOURTH OF JULY (which he co-wrote and starred in) played in theatres all over North America. Joe has released his last 3 specials on YouTube, where they’ve totalled nearly 14 million views. List is a regular on Rogan and The Tonight Show and he’s performed on THE LATE SHOW WITH DAVID LETTERMAN and CONAN.

He was a finalist on NBC’s LAST COMIC STANDING, has his own half-hour special on Comedy Central, and he also stars in season 2 of Netflix’s THE STAND UPS. His albums ‘So Far No Good’ and ‘Are You Mad at Me?’ (through Comedy Central Records) can be heard all the time on Sirius Radio. List is also the co-host of the popular weekly podcast ‘Tuesdays with Stories’ w/ Mark Normand. He can be seen regularly at the Comedy Cellar in New York City.

Joe is a new dad. He lives in Manhattan with his wife, Sarah Tollemache and their son.

Comedy: Ed Byrne & Friends
2026-05-26 20:00 - 22:00 | Hen & Chicken Studio
This very special night of stand up is headlined by a certified comedy superstar!

With a TV career now in its third decade, ED BYRNE – seen on the likes of QI, Mock The Week, The Pilgrimage, Dara and Ed’s Road to Mandalay, The Graham Norton Show and Have I Got News For You, as well as hosting Live At The Apollo and Comic Relief Bake Off – brings an extended headline set to Bristol’s Hen & Chicken. Ed’s latest tour, Tragedy Plus Time, won British Comedy Guide’s Best Comedy Show Of The Year and sold out venues nationwide, becoming his most critically and commercially successful yet. With legions of fans both in the UK and abroad, Ed remains the observational stand-up to see. Ed will have two brilliant guest comedians with him on the night – names to be announced soon!

Music: Dirk Powell, Amelia Powell and Cedric Watson.
2026-05-26 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Infectious mountain music and Zydeco rhythms where Appalachia meets the Louisiana bayou …
Dirk Powell, renowned fiddle, banjo and cajun accordion player, with his daughter, Amelia Powell – guitar and vocals, have teamed up with Cedric Watson – creole fiddle, accordion and francophone vocals.
This promises to be an evening when the mountains of Kentucky meet the Louisiana bayous.

Theatre: MIDNIGHT JOANNA – THE ‘PIANO BAR MUSICAL’
2026-05-27 20:30 - 22:30 | Hen & Chicken Studio
The original, immersive, ‘piano bar musical’ making its UK DEBUT at Hen & Chicken, Bristol, over two special nights!
Hot on the heels of a sold-out opening run, Jerseyman songwriter & piano-vocalist, Ant Noel, brings his swingin’ new production Midnight Joanna to the mainland.
Featuring a 14-strong company of professional musicians & actors, Midnight Joanna is a thrilling night of rollicking rock ‘n’ roll, jivin’ jazz, blistering blues & colourful cabaret.
Come & soak up the atmosphere as we bring to life the neon characters of our late-night piano bar!
It’s open mic at The Dive, a bustling piano bar.
The Host sits at a tune-worn Joanna, ready to play into the night.
Starry-eyed singers and weary waitresses,
Best-friend bartenders and lairy locals,
Troubled troubadours and a life-of-the-party landlord.
Reputations are made… or ruined
Dreams are realised… or forgotten
By midnight, they will all be in for the ride!
Dates: 27th & 28th May 2026
Time: Doors open 7:30pm, show starts at 8:30pm
Tickets £20 in adv / £24 otd (cash only)
(Under 18s permitted with a responsible adult. Some mild pub-related adult humour)
A professional songwriter & performer of over 20 years, Jerseyman Ant Noel forged his career in the creative heartlands of Bristol & Somerset, before returning to his home island in 2019.
Between 2010 – 2018, Ant released four solo albums – with backing band The Peabody Drakes – performing perform at festivals & venues across the South West, including several appearances for the BBC. In 2014, Musician Magazine picked Ant’s third album The Water’s Line as one of their “stand out” releases.
In 2019, Ant began writing Midnight Joanna, an immersive show inspired by experiences hosting open mics and playing in pubs & piano bars (including the fondly-remembered Illusions Magic Bar where Ant held residency for over 5 years). With a large ensemble of professional musicians & actors – supported by arts organisations ArtHouse Jersey & Creative Island Partnership – Midnight Joanna premiered to three sell-out audiences in October 2024. Ant is excited to bring his show to the UK for the first time, especially his beloved second home of Bristol, where it will be performed by Ant & fantastic Bristolian talent!

www.facebook.com/midnightjoannajersey

Jazz: John Donegan Quartet
2026-05-28 20:00 - 22:30 | Chicken Shed
Pianist John Donegan has visited annually to promote his series of sextet albums, but this year has returned to quartet format for his latest CD Interfuse, recorded in Dublin, May 2025. The recording features the cream of Ireland’s jazz scene including former Van Morrison saxophonist Richie Buckley, but as on previous occasions tonight we present John’s music with a specially formed Bristol version.
For the first time John will be joined by Dan Newberry on sax duties – Dan is a firebrand player whose musical maturity belies his relative youth and his playing never fails to impress. The rock solid rhythm team of Chris Jones and Ryan Thrupp have played for John’s previous sextet visits.
Originally from Cork in Ireland, John Donegan lived in Bristol during the 90s and was a mainstay of the jazz scene here before work took him to London. Now retired from his day job, over the past few years John has been able to dedicate his time exclusively to music and has released several recordings demonstrating his compositional skills including his three sextet albums Shadows Linger [2022], Light Streams [2023] and We Will Meet Again, Sometime [2024].
Once again John has gained a hard to achieve four star review in Jazzwise Magazine “In short, superb music; and brilliant production” alongside other excellent reviews you will find in Jazz Journal, UK Jazz News and All About Jazz.
