Summer of exciting entertainment promised at Town Gardens Bowl

By Barrie Hudson - 22 April 2024

Arts and CultureAttractionsCommunity
  • The My Dad's Bigger Than Your Dad Festival is one of this summer's events at the historic Bowl

    The My Dad's Bigger Than Your Dad Festival is one of this summer's events at the historic Bowl

One of the UK’s most unique performing arts venues will host a variety of exciting events throughout the Summer.

Events have been held at Swindon’s Town Gardens Bowl, which is run by South Swindon Parish Council, for the last few years, and with this year’s schedule includes comedy, theatre and music.

The summer events kick off on Friday 3 May with a performance by the Old Time Sailors, a shanty group known for their lively and authentic renditions of traditional sea songs. Fancy dress is encouraged, and there is a licenced bar on site. 

This is followed by "Music for Miniatures" on Sunday 26 May, a delightful concert featuring classical music specifically curated for young audiences.

On Saturday, 1 June, the Town Gardens Bowl will host "Comedy at the Bowl," featuring some of the region's top stand-up comedians. The fun continues on Friday 7 June with "Supersonic Queen," a tribute band which pays homage to the legendary rock group fronted by Freddie Mercury.

The My Dad’s Bigger Than Your Dad Festival returns on Saturday 20 July for its fourth edition. Run by Swindon Shuffle, the festival raises funds for local charity Prospect Hospice, in memory of pub landlord and key Swindon music scene figre Dave Young. 

Other highlights of the summer schedule include:

• "Sherlock and Watson: A Murder in the Garden" on Sunday 9 June
• "La Boheme" on Sunday 20 June
• "A Midsummer Night's Dream" on Saturday 27 July
• "Rock the Tots" on Wednesday 31 July 31
• "Pygmalion" on Saturday 3 August
• "Jeeves and Wooster: Stiff Upper Lip, Jeeves" on Sunday 11 August
• "Forging Fantastical" on Saturday 17 August

Tickets can be booked online at: www.towngardens-swindon.co.uk/events/

The 1936 art-deco-style Bowl opened in 1936 and is one of only a handful of its kind in the country, and provides a unique backdrop to a spectacular range of events throughout the year.

South Swindon Parish Council is exploring options to restore the historic structure into an attractive modern venue for concerts, theatre, private events, and weddings. The Bowl obtained its wedding license earlier this year.

Neil Hopkins, Chair of South Swindon Parish Council, said: "We are thrilled to bring such a diverse and engaging lineup of events to the Town Gardens Bowl this summer. 

"This historic venue is the perfect setting for the community to come together and enjoy the arts, music, and the great outdoors. We encourage everyone to mark their calendars and join us for these fantastic summer events."

More information about the Parish Council and its initiatives can be found at www.southswindon-pc.gov.uk

 

 

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