Legends & Fresh Voices – Folk Like Never Before in 2025!

Folk at Newhampton Arts Centre this spring: From Legendary Names to Fresh New Voices – Folk Like You’ve Never Heard Before!

Newhampton Arts Centre (NAC) invites you to experience the heart and soul of folk music in 2025. This season is packed with spellbinding performances from legendary figures, rising stars, and one-off collaborations you’ll be talking about for years. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in stories, songs, and sounds that resonate across generations.

Whether you’re after intimate duets, foot-stomping jams, or breathtaking instrumentals, NAC’s folk programme is your gateway to an unforgettable evening of live music. Here’s a taste of what’s in store.

Hannah Read, Vera Van Heeringen & Michael Starkey – Folk at NAC
Date: 22 February 2025
Location: NAC Theatre
Time: Event starts at 8:00 pm
Prices: Advance £16 | On the Door £18

Three extraordinary musical talents come together for an evening of Appalachian old-time songs and stunning original compositions. Hannah Read (fiddle, vocals), Vera Van Heeringen (multi-instrumentalist), and Michael Starkey (banjo) create an unforgettable blend of rich harmonies, soulful ballads, and intricate instrumental interplay.

With roots in both traditional and contemporary folk, this trio delivers a sound that’s fresh yet familiar. Their dynamic synergy on stage makes for a captivating performance filled with warmth, humour, and exceptional musicianship.

The Rosie Hood Band – Folk at NAC
Date: 15 March 2025
Location: NAC Theatre
Time: Doors open at 7:30 pm, Event starts at 8:00 pm
Prices: Advance £16

Known for her powerful vocals and poetic storytelling, Rosie Hood is one of the most compelling voices in folk music today. Joined by the talented Nicola Beazley (melodeon) and Robyn Wallace (percussion), The Rosie Hood Band blends the beauty of traditional English songs with fresh, original compositions. Expect powerful themes of nature, women’s voices, and untold stories, all wrapped in gorgeous harmonies and dynamic arrangements.

With an authentic and contemporary take on the folk tradition, The Rosie Hood Band’s performance will leave you moved, inspired, and humming their melodies long after the music fades.

Tom McConville & Michael Biggins – Folk at NAC
Date: 12 April 2025
Location: NAC Theatre
Time: Doors open at 7:30 pm, Event starts at 8:00 pm
Prices: Advance £16 | On the Door £18

Two powerhouse performers come together for a night of music, energy, and sheer musical brilliance. Tom McConville’s legendary fiddle playing, combined with the vibrant keys and accordion mastery of Michael Biggins, promises an evening of pure folk magic. Both have been recognised with prestigious awards, including BBC Folk Musician of the Year and BBC Scottish Trad Musician of the Year.

Their setlist spans Irish, Scottish, Bluegrass, and Jazz influences, performed with style, verve, and infectious humour. It’s a show guaranteed to leave you grinning from ear to ear.

Ashley Hutchings & Becky Mills – Folk at NAC
Date: 17 May 2025
Location: NAC Theatre
Time: Event starts at 8:00 pm
Prices: Advance £18 | On the Door £20

The Guv’nor of Folk-Rock, Ashley Hutchings, returns with singer-songwriter Becky Mills for a performance unlike any other. The duo will present their acclaimed show “100 Not Out,” a celebration of Ashley’s monumental 100th album release, More Songs From The Shows (2022). Featuring classic hits from “Crazy Man Michael” to “Bird on a Wire,” and a selection of Bob Dylan’s songbook, this is a concert packed with stories, humour, and timeless songs.

Accompanied by Becky Mills’ stunning vocals and guitar, the pair’s unique chemistry on stage creates an intimate and poignant folk experience. Fans of Fairport Convention, Steeleye Span, and folk-rock’s golden era should not miss this one.

Paul Downes & Phil Beer – Folk at NAC
Date: 19 July 2025
Location: NAC Theatre
Time: Event starts at 8:00 pm
Prices: Advance £18 | On the Door £20

Folk fans, mark your calendars! This is a rare and exclusive reunion you won’t want to miss. Paul Downes and Phil Beer’s musical partnership has spanned decades, most notably as part of Bill Zorn’s Arizona Smoke Review. Their unforgettable appearance at Sidmouth Folk Festival’s 70th anniversary sparked widespread demand for more performances, but NAC is one of the only venues to secure this legendary duo.

Expect a night of nostalgic folk, virtuoso instrumentals, and soulful storytelling as Paul’s warm guitar and Phil’s iconic fiddle fill the room. This one-off performance is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Why Choose Folk at NAC?

1. Timeless Music, Fresh Energy – Experience traditional folk infused with modern influences, brought to life by legendary and emerging performers.
2. Intimate Setting – Enjoy live music in a cosy, friendly theatre where every note and every lyric feels personal.
3. Exclusive Events – Rare one-off performances like Paul Downes & Phil Beer’s reunion are truly unmissable.
4. Community Vibes – Folk at NAC is more than a gig; it’s a shared experience filled with warmth, connection, and stories.

Don’t Miss Out!

Secure your tickets now to experience the best of folk at NAC in 2025. These captivating concerts will have you clapping, singing, and tapping your toes to the rhythm of the past and present. From fresh new voices to folk legends, every show is a celebration of music, community, and unforgettable live performance.

Book Your Tickets Today!

Don’t miss a beat. Book your tickets early to secure your spot at these highly anticipated folk events. Whether it’s a night of Appalachian ballads, a celebration of English folk classics, or a rare reunion gig, the NAC Theatre is where the magic happens.