Punch and Judy
2024-07-07 12:00 - 12:20, 2024-07-07 13:15 - 13:35, 2024-07-07 14:15 - 14:35 UTC | Ripon Spa Gardens, Park Street, Ripon, HG4 2AX, United Kingdom
Beautiful, hand-carved wooden puppets come to life in a fast-moving and funny show that has lots of good old-fashioned knock-about fun, with loads of audience participation.
Each show lasts 20 minutes
FREE EVENT
Ripon Spa Gardens
11:00 – 11:20
12:00 – 12:20
13:15 – 13:35
14:15 – 14:35

Trinity Singers
2024-07-07 12:00 - 12:30 | Ripon Marketplace, Market Place, Ripon, HG41BP, United Kingdom
Ripon Trinity Singers is a local community chamber choir rehearsing at St. Wilfrid’s Community Hall every Thursday evening during term time. We sing a wide range of a cappella repertoire from medieval to contemporary in many different genres: classical, folk, world music, pop….. and are happy to sing at any community event. We are currently almost at full capacity but do have a few vacancies for Sopranos. Please contact Nicky Brierley-Woods for more information: nicky_woods@btinternet.com
FREE EVENT
10.30-11am Ripon Spa Gardens
12-12.30pm Little Bird Market

Ripon Walled Garden Performers
2024-07-07 12:00 - 12:30 | Ripon Spa Gardens, Park Street, Ripon, HG4 2AX, United Kingdom
We can’t wait to welcome these performers back to the festival. Here’s what they told us about their group:
“At Ripon Walled garden, members attend the day service and take part in different activities such as dance, drama and singing with Makaton signs. Through singing, they learn Makaton sign language which improves communication. Dance and drama promote a sense of well-being and confidence. All our members are now well-rehearsed and have performed many times, both at the garden and at community events. Our theatre performers will be bringing you a selection of numbers from their recent show, Mary Poppins which was a huge hit”
FREE EVENT
12-12.30pm Ripon Spa Gardens

The Bombardiers
2024-07-07 12:30 - 13:00 | Ripon Spa Gardens, Park Street, Ripon, HG4 2AX, United Kingdom
Tally Ho! and Chocks Away! Three courageous airmen, Roger, Reggie and Rupert are returning from battle when their trusty aeroplane is caught in a freak storm. The daring heroes bravely leap from the craft and find themselves hurled far and wide.
Armed only with their wits and extremely good looks, who knows where they’ll end up, what adventures they’ll find and if they’ll ever be reunited…
Giggles Galore from Rhubarb Theatre.
FREE EVENT
12.30 – 1pm Ripon Spa Gardens

The U3A Ukulele Group
2024-07-07 12:30 - 13:00 | Ripon Spa Gardens, Park Street, Ripon, HG4 2AX, United Kingdom
FREE EVENT
12.30-1pm Ripon Spa Gardens

Let Them Eat Cake
2024-07-07 12:30 - 13:00, 2024-07-07 14:00 - 14:30 | Ripon Marketplace, Market Place, Ripon, HG41BP, United Kingdom
Our three Mary Antoinettes take to the street to feed the public their tasty treats!
These comedy pompous poodle-haired queens will cause a right royal ruckus wherever they go! Choose a cake from the tray to reveal a joke, funny foodie fact, truth or dare…if you resist temptation or refuse to entertain the queens they might just chop off your head!
FREE EVENT
12.30-1pm Little Bird Market
2-2.30pm Little Bird Market

Passion for Movement
2024-07-07 12:30 - 13:00 | Ripon Marketplace, Market Place, Ripon, HG41BP, United Kingdom
FREE EVENT
12.30-1pm Little Bird Market

The Story of Daniel
2024-07-07 13:00 - 13:30 | Ripon Spa Gardens, Park Street, Ripon, HG4 2AX, United Kingdom
The story of Daniel in around 20 minutes. All the best bits including dreams and of course the lions! Performed by Open the Book.
Open the Book say: “We are a group of Christians from a number of churches in Ripon who go into schools to act out Bible Stories. If you ask a Primary aged school child from Ripon they will know about us! We aim to make these stories accessible to young people and adults alike, with opportunities for audience participation! We’d love to hear from people who would like to get involved. Contact John 01765 690930 or office@holytrinityripon.org.uk ”
FREE EVENT
1 – 1.30pm Ripon Spa Gardens

Ripon Goes to Bollywood
2024-07-07 13:00 - 13:30 | Ripon Marketplace, Market Place, Ripon, HG41BP, United Kingdom
Ripon goes to Bollywood is an inclusive dance group led by Sarita McDermott. The group started dancing together after the last lockdown and meet weekly. They perform at events and festivals in Ripon throughout the year.
This style of dancing is Indian Kathak dancing. It expresses emotions through story telling, and connects the body to the mind. Great for exercise and wellbeing. The group is very excited to perform in the festival.
FREE EVENT
1-1.30pm Little Bird Market

The Fireman Dave – Circus Skills Drop-In
2024-07-07 13:00 - 14:30 | Ripon Spa Gardens, Park Street, Ripon, HG4 2AX, United Kingdom
Have a go with juggling, plate-spinning, diabolo, hula hooping and more. Practice your skills before the next show begins!
FREE EVENT
Drop in from 1-2.30pm Ripon Spa Gardens

Struzzo and Maxim
2024-07-07 13:30 - 14:00 | Ripon Spa Gardens, Park Street, Ripon, HG4 2AX, United Kingdom
Struzzo (Pete Baynes) and Maxim (Mike Bettison) have been performing feats of derring-do on the streets for many decades. In 2019 a video clip of a performance on the streets of Goole went mega-viral, much to everyone’s surprise!
There will be music and magic. Look out for the Ostrich!
FREE EVENT
10 – 10.30am Ripon Spa Gardens
11 – 11.30pm Little Bird Market
1.30 – 2pm Ripon Spa Gardens
2.30 – 3pm The Ripon INN

Lily Worth
2024-07-07 13:30 - 14:00 | Ripon Marketplace, Market Place, Ripon, HG41BP, United Kingdom
FREE EVENT
1.30-2pm Little Bird Market

The Golden Tree
2024-07-07 14:00 - 14:30 | Ripon Spa Gardens, Park Street, Ripon, HG4 2AX, United Kingdom
A Henshaws Arts and Crafts Centre Performing Arts Workshop production.
Join us for a whimsical journey with The Golden Tree brought to life by the talented performers of Knaresborough’s Henshaws Arts and Crafts Centre. Catch the performance at 2pm and dive into the original fairy tale of Bernard the Fool, filled with kings, queens, heroes, and villains, ensuring fun and laughter for the whole family.
Don’t miss the post-show workshop at 3.30pm, where participants of all ages can explore the magic behind the scenes through engaging theatre games.
Henshaws Arts and Crafts Centre Performing Arts Group collaboratively creates and produces original works.
They say: “This year, our focus has been a comedy fairy tale, developed through improvisation and scene work. Our participants, who often attend multiple drama sessions each week, have previously engaged in a wide range of projects, including pantomimes, adaptations of Shakespeare, and collaborations with groups like Moondust Theatre Company.
Laughter is central to our workshops, arising from the fun of improvisation and our collaborative approach. We also embed sign language into our performances, promoting inclusivity and allowing everyone to participate fully.
Our workshops at the Henshaws Arts and Crafts Centre in Knaresborough are led by skilled theatre workshop leaders. They provide a secure, supportive environment where individuals with disabilities and special needs can engage with the performing arts. Using techniques from music, movement, and theatre, we empower our participants. Projects like “The Golden Tree” showcase our commitment to creativity, community involvement, and individual expression.
Participants in our workshops not only rehearse for “The Golden Tree” but also explore new artistic challenges, experiencing the thrill of creation and the rewards of collective effort. To discover more about our drama workshops and how to participate, visit our website at https://www.henshaws.org.uk/arts-crafts-centre/our-workshops/”
FREE EVENT
2 – 2.30pm Ripon Spa Gardens (performance)
3.30 – 4.15pm The Ripon INN Garden Marquee (workshop)

Freddie Cleary
2024-07-07 14:00 - 14:30 | Ripon Marketplace, Market Place, Ripon, HG41BP, United Kingdom
Freddie performs as a solo acoustic act (guitar/vocals) playing well-known Indie Rock/Pop/Folk covers such as Oasis, Stone Roses, Plain White T’s and Ed Sheeran as well as his own original songs.

As a busker Freddie can often be found entertaining crowds in Ripon, Harrogate, Leeds, York, Robin Hoods Bay and as far a field as Edinburgh!
Set lists can be tailored for private events and weddings.
If you want to discuss the requirements for your event, please email freddieclearymusic@outlook.com or telephone 07966484338
FREE EVENT
2-2.30pm Little Bird Market

Struzzo and Maxim
2024-07-07 14:30 - 15:00 | The Ripon Inn, Park Street, Ripon, HG4 2BU

The Three Suitcases
2024-07-07 14:30 - 15:00 | Ripon Spa Gardens, Park Street, Ripon, HG4 2AX, United Kingdom
Three quirky characters that meet by chance at a train station. Where is the train? Will it arrive? As time tick-tocks onwards the three accidental companions become more and more playful, passing the time in adventurous and exciting ways – who knows what might happen next?
Full of mime, physical theatre, music and fun, this is a slapstick Rhubarb Theatre street-treat for all the family!
FREE EVENT
10.15 – 10.45am Little Bird Market
2.30 – 3pm Ripon Spa Gardens

Kit and Caboodle
2024-07-07 14:30 - 15:00 | Ripon Marketplace, Market Place, Ripon, HG41BP, United Kingdom
With miniature puppet shows inside a big, rolling mule puppet, the timeless theme of migration is packaged up in Thingumajig’s latest street act, KIT AND CABOODLE.
A pack mule with its beautiful burden of tales is joined by two well-travelled companions. Bags and cases open to reveal stories and songs of remarkable journeys from the staggering sojourn of a butterfly to people past and present who set out in search of a better life.
“It was such an emotional and beautiful piece it actually made me cry!” Charlotte, Shipley Street Arts Festival
FREE EVENT
11.30 – 12noon Ripon Spa Gardens
2.30 – 3pm Little Bird Market

The Not So Big Bad Wolf
2024-07-07 15:00 - 16:00 | Ripon Spa Gardens, Park Street, Ripon, HG4 2AX, United Kingdom
“Welcome back Listeners – Little Red Riding Hood here! Stay tuned as I go undercover to reveal the truth behind fairytales’ most infamous villain – The Big Bad Wolf”
Meet Little Red; adventurer, heroine and world-renowned “True Grimm” podcaster. She’s on a mission to debunk the myths around her so called nemesis, with the help of a few storybook favourites, her red cloak, and a basket full of music, mayhem and magic tricks! But the truth is no Fairytale… Behold as your favourite tales are re-spun and woven together in an epic new adventure from Wrongsemble.
https://video.wixstatic.com/video/fc2b2d_55be174c14ad4bf1ab27dec1e0e6ab90/720p/mp4/file.mp4
Age guide 4+
FREE EVENT
10.30 – 11.30am Ripon Spa Gardens
3 – 4pm Ripon Spa Gardens

Fate and the Warrior
2024-07-07 15:00 - 16:30 | Workhouse Museum, Sharow View, Allhallowgate, Ripon, HG4 1LE, United Kingdom
In the atmospheric surroundings of the Guardians’ Room at Ripon Workhouse, Fell-Foss Theatre presents the first read through of a new play detailing the last years of Edgar Mittelholzer, credited as the first English speaking novelist from the Caribbean. He had a prolific output, gaining much success, though his work took an increasingly darker tone over time ostracizing many former publishers.‘Here we go gathering blood and bones!
Blood and Bones! Blood and Bones!
Here We go gathering blood and bones
This dark and foggy morning’
A Pay What You Can Event – recommended price £6

Family Theatre Workshop with Henshaws
2024-07-07 15:30 - 16:15 | The Ripon Inn, Park Street, Ripon, HG4 2BU
After you’ve enjoyed the whimsical world of The Golden Tree in the Spa Gardens (2.30pm) brought to life by the talented performers of Knaresborough’s Henshaws Arts and Crafts Centre, join in 45 minutes of fun and accessible theatre games. The session is for all ages and abilities and will be co-led by three of Henshaws participants – Hannah, Kezzy and Ollie, alongside Douglas Thompson, theatre-maker and multidisciplinary artist.
Douglas Thompson says:
“Join us to explore the creative process behind the fairy tale as we play theatre games, mime, and body language techniques. In this workshop, participants will journey through colourful characters and storytelling. Experience the magic of mime with games like ‘Mime Slime,’ where you bring invisible objects to life. Discover the comedic chaos between characters with fun servant-master games. Whether you’re experienced or new to theatre, this workshop offers a chance to unleash your creativity and explore storytelling.”
About Henshaws Arts and Crafts Centre:
Henshaws Arts and Crafts Centre supports people with a range of disabilities. Our centre is a place where artmakers can explore their talents, develop new skills, and connect with the community. Through workshops, performances, and events, we highlight the abilities of our participants and promote inclusivity in the arts.
This workshop is free ​but please book your places to avoid disappointment and so we know you are coming!
Workshop takes place in the Ripon Inn Garden Marquee to the rear of the hotel (access through Spa Gardens or via the hotel on Park Street)
Refreshments served for participants courtesy of The Ripon Inn
FREE EVENT
2 – 2.30pm Ripon Spa Gardens (performance)
3.30 – 4.15pm The Ripon Inn Garden Marquee (workshop)

As You Like It
2024-07-07 19:00 - 21:30 | The Old Deanery, Minster Road,, Ripon, HG4 1QS, United Kingdom
Shakespeare’s leafy tale of banishment, love and disguise is given a light-hearted and musical treatment by Folksy Theatre.
Rosalind, the daughter of a banished duke, falls in love with Orlando. Banished from the court by her usurping uncle, Rosalind takes on the appearance of a boy, calling herself Ganymede. She, her cousin Celia and jester Touchstone, travel to the Forest of Arden, where her father and his friends live in exile. Meeting Orlando again in the forest, she devises an elaborate scheme to test his love and capture his heart, through the witty and mischievous façade of her disguise.
“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players…”
This popular Shakespearian comedy about life and love, faith and death is filled with Folksy’s touch of live music, bold characters, audience interaction and plenty of laughs. Bring along friends and family to enjoy this fun-filled production!
Sponsored by Specsavers, Ripon
Suitable for ages 7+
Please bring your own rug or folding chairs (but no umbrellas!).
Picnics welcome but please respect our hosts by purchasing all drinks at the bar.
Dogs are NOT allowed at the performance.
Performance continues regardless of weather.
Sunday 7 July, 7pm
Tickets: £18 adults, £11 children

Nana Funk: Tough Old Bird
2025-03-20 19:00 - 22:00 | Ripon Arts Hub, 49 Allhallowgate, Ripon, HG4 1LQ, United Kingdom
A heartfelt musical journey of exploration, inspired by real life events. Presented by Nana Funk, the great-great-grandmother of good times.
Tough Old Bird explores how women are viewed in society as they have the absolute gall to get older! Have you ever noticed those adverts promising to ‘defy the effects of ageing’? Ooh Nana hates them. What about when we get old? Where’s the instruction manual? Who deems what is ‘acceptable behaviour’? What happens when your voice isn’t listened to, or you become slowly invisible?
“The moments of poignant clarity were matched with joyous hilarity” Opening Nights
“Evokes the warm-hearted but deadly-sharp observational style of Victoria Wood” North West End
Presented to launch the 2025 Ripon Theatre Festival. Tickets include a glass of bubbly, information about forthcoming festival events and refreshments courtesy of Valentino’s Ristorante.
Thursday 20 March. Doors and refreshments from 7pm, event starts 7.30pm.
Tickets £15

Bomb Happy
2025-05-11 14:30 - 16:00 | Lister House, Southgate, Ripon, HG4 1PG, United Kingdom
“Bomb Happy is a slang phrase we use for being under fire for many days at a time… it does describe the condition you become.” D Day Veteran, Ken “Smudger” Smith
Two new works telling the stories of Yorkshire Normandy Veterans in their own words. This poignant and lyrical double-bill includes:
A Walk in the Park – a short film in the footsteps of Hank Haydock. Filmed on location at former WWII training camp in Duncombe Park, it tells the story of Coldstream Guardsman Dennis Haydock. Beautifully shot, it captures the hidden remains of nissen huts, tank standings and tank maintenance pits amongst the now peaceful woodland.
Sleep/Re-Live/Wake/Repeat – writer Helena Fox and vocalist Natasha Jones bring to life the first-hand experiences of D-Day Veteran, Ken “Smudger” Smith and the lifelong impact of PTSD and sleep trauma through spoken first hand accounts and haunting acapella vocals. With never been seen before black and white images from Ken’s personal photo collection following his traumatic journey in the Middle East following victory in Europe.
Two stories of two ordinary Yorkshire lads who find themselves in extraordinary circumstances. At times humorous, at times harrowing, both film and spoken word performance allow a close up insight into life on the frontline and give a rare glimpse into life for someone beset by memories of war.
Presented as part of Ripon’s VE Day 80th Anniversary Commemorations in partnership with Ripon Community Poppy Project.
Sunday 11 May, 2.30pm Doors open 2pm.
Refreshments will be served after the event with donations to Lister House.
Tickets £10

Peelers, Poachers & Paupers
2025-06-28 13:30 - 16:30, 2025-06-28 17:00 - 20:00, 2025-06-29 13:30 - 16:30, 2025-06-29 17:00 - 20:00 | Workhouse Museum, Sharow View, Allhallowgate, Ripon, HG4 1LE, United Kingdom
A tale of resistance, survival and defiance in Victorian Yorkshire
Experience an unmissable theatrical journey across Ripon’s historic museums. Ripon Workhouse Theatre Ensemble and Fell Foss Theatre join forces to present a brand-new production staged across all three sites: the Workhouse Museum, the Police and Prison Museum, and the Courthouse.
Step into the gripping true story of Elisha and John Sinkler, Yorkshire brothers born into a gamekeeping family who turned to poaching and paid the ultimate price. Follow their journey across the moors of Nidderdale, their clashes with the law, and their brutal punishment: transportation to Australia. Witness their desperate fight to return home not once, but twice.
This powerful performance also brings to light the struggles of those left behind the women who endured hardship and a fight for survival in their absence. This immersive promenade theatre experience breathes life into the forgotten voices of 19th-century Yorkshire.
Don’t miss this extraordinary story told in extraordinary spaces.
Due to the nature of the venues, ticketing will be used to manage numbers at each stage of the story.
All ticket purchasers end up at the Workhouse Museum for refreshments after the show.

1.30-4.30pm – Rotation #1 – Prison & Police Museum, Courthouse, Workhouse Museum Book Now
2-4.30pm – Rotation #2 – Courthouse, Prison & Police Museum, Workhouse Museum Book Now
5-8pm – Rotation #3 – Prison & Police Museum, Courthouse, Workhouse Museum Book Now
5.30-8pm – Rotation #4 – Prison & Police Museum, Courthouse, Workhouse Museum Book Now

Age guide 10+
