Ropetackle Arts Centre

Ropetackle is an award-winning arts venue on the banks of the River Adur in Shoreham-by-Sea. With music, comedy, theatre, talks, family events, exhibitions, and films on their calendar, there really is something for everyone. As a charitable trust staffed almost entirely by volunteers, nothing comes close to the friendly atmosphere, intimate performance space and first-class programming that makes Ropetackle loved by audiences and performers alike.

Where else could you find The Blockheads, Zoe Lyons, a ukulele celebration, puppet shows, book launches, jazz, blues, soul and rock artists, blockbuster films and a Canadian Maritime Folk Festival all in one season?!

Often described as unique by visitors, the Ropetackle energy is felt as soon as you step inside the door. The bright and airy café selling healthy homemade soups, sandwiches and light lunches (and lovely cakes!) becomes a fully-licensed bar for concert-goers at night. They stock local and international ales and ciders and excellent wines at highly competitive prices and there are pre-show suppers available from local caterers Lesley’s Kitchen at many of the live music events.

Ropetackle has long been a supporter of acoustic and roots-based music, and in recent years, Canadian folk artists have been a feature on their programme. As a result, one of their trustees, Anne Hodgson, was invited to Prince Edward Island on the eastern side of Canada to participate in Showcase PEI 2017, which celebrates the very best of the area’s music. She has curated a dedicated festival this summer to bring these musicians to the south coast.

As Michael Hughes of foremost British folk group The Young ‘Uns says: “Over the past few years, audiences across the UK have been treated to the delightful and innovative music emerging from PEI. These musicians span all genres, from bluegrass to Americana, and blues to electro-pop. They are making waves across key music markets outside of North America and come highly recommended!”

Often described as unique by visitors, the Ropetackle energy is felt as soon as you step inside the door

The festival runs from July 31 to August 11. Check out the Ropetackles website for the full details and information about Canadian films. On the bill:

Vishten (with support from Hickory Signals) – Tues 31 July | 8pm | £14
The Canadian trio continues to dazzle audiences with their fiery blend of traditional French songs and original instruments, fusing Celtic and Acadian genres with a modern sensibility and rock influence. Their tight harmonies, layer foot percussion, virtuoso acoustics and electric instrumentation create an expansive sound.

Gordie MacKeeman & His Rhythm Boys (with support from Purple Shoes Duo) – Weds 1 August | 8pm | £14
Gordie exemplifies the term ‘natural showman’. An ace fiddle-player, nicknamed ‘Crazy Legs’ because of his frenetic, loose-limbed step-dancing, he just loves to perform. Combine that exuberance and onstage dynamism with the stellar musicianship of comrades His Rhythm Boys and you have an unstoppable roots music force.

The East Pointers – Thurs 2 August | 8pm | £14
Beyond their dazzling musicianship and wildly entertaining live shows, there is a reason The East Pointers have connected with audiences right across the globe, making new original roots music the hippest and most vibrant thing going.

Irish Mythen – Friday 10 August | 8pm | £12
Mythen is a globe-trotting troubadour: an Irish-born, contemporary Canadian folk artist who has been amassing accolades and achievements across several continents over the years. A sonic and emotional experience.

Saturday sessions: Celebrating Folk – Saturday 11 August | 12pm to 4pm FREE
Come and experience the joy of folk music in our foyer with local musicians. Be inspired, sing along and tap those feet.
Bar and café open.

Le Vent du Nord – Saturday 11 August | 8pm | £15 standing, £17 seated.
A glorious mix of fiddle, guitar, accordion, piano, bass, hurdygurdy and wonderful four-part harmonies.
Little High Street, Shoreham by Sea, West Sussex BN43 5EG

www.ropetacklecentre.co.uk | Box Office: 01273 464440