Melville Centre Abergavenny

Poetry Upstairs -Graham Harthill & Clare e Potter
2025-10-21 19:00 - 21:00 (Europe/London) | Melville Centre Cafe-Bar, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom
Graham Hartill moved to the Black Mountains in 1992.
He has published seven co-translations with Wu Fusheng (of the University of Utah) from classical Chinese.
Graham teaches post-graduate students Creative Writing for Therapeutic Purposes for the Metanoia Institute in London
and was a writer-in-residence at HMP Parc, Bridgend.

clare e. potter is a poet and radio presenter who studied and taught in The Deep South (USA). She has had poetry residencies
with the Landmark Trust, performed at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington DC and was a Hay Festival Writer at Work.
Healing the Pack (Verve Poetry Press) her second poetry collection was published in 2024.

It helps to know in advance the number of attendees in order to arrange the seating,
so please register with Nicky Hassett (Melville Events Manager) Phone: 01873 853167
Then pay on the door as usual

Iago Banet, ‘The Galician King of Acoustic Guitar’
2025-10-25 19:30 - 21:30 | The Melville Theatre, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom
Described as ‘a master of the guitar’ by Sean Rafferty, BBC Radio 3 In Tune; as ‘nothing short of phenomenal’ in a recent review, and as a ‘highly recommended artist’ by Celtic Connections, Iago creates stories without words, enthralling audiences as he does so.

Iago Banet, ‘The Galician King of Acoustic Guitar’ launched his third album, TRES, in 2023, with a tour which has included multiple sell-out shows and sensational receptions from audiences across the UK. He has showcased his immense talent at festivals including Brecon Jazz, Hellys International Guitar Festival and Aberjazz, displaying new levels of skill, complexity and versatility, whilst fusing styles, ranging from gypsy jazz, blues, Americana, country and dixieland, to swing, pop and folk

Since 2018, Banet has been building an impressive career as a solo fingerstyle acoustic guitarist, displaying his exceptional abilities and receiving rave reviews along the way. He has performed with artists, including Josh Smith (Joe Bonamassa), Mark Flanagan (Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra), Jack Broadbent and Clive Carroll, amongst others.
Iago’s technique and approach to performance have captivated crowds across the UK and Spain. He is a one-man-band on acoustic guitar not to be missed.
Video 1: https://youtu.be/vTFkiwyVp8s
Video 2: https://youtu.be/QUgpfSbbPEU

Chris Cobbson Quartet - From Dixie to Smooth: The History of Jazz Guitar
2025-10-26 20:00 - 22:00 | The Melville Theatre, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom
Chris ‘Santo’ Cobbson is one of the most exciting and in-demand
guitarists in the UK. He has performed with Osibisa, Courtney Pine, The
JBs (Maceo Parker, Pee Wee Ellis, Fred Wesley), Monty Alexander, Andy
Sheppard, Clifford Jarvis, Jean Toussaint, the Ronnie Scott’s Big Band,
Sheila Ferguson, S.E. Rogie, Gasper Lawal, Dick Heckstall-Smith, Jim
Mullen, Ray Gelato, David Newton, Omar, Curtis Stigers, Imelda May,
the Ebony Steel Band, Jay Rayner, and many other artists across a wide
range of musical genres. He is also a prolific composer and arranger.

In this captivating project, Chris traces the history of jazz guitar, from its
early roots in Africa to the present day. With a masterful command of
guitar styles from every jazz era, he delivers a performance rich in
historical insight, musicality, and humour – sure to engage and entertain
any audience.

“Swinging”-James Moody
“Wonderful musician, beautiful music”- Russell Malone
“Sweet textures”- Music Republic Magazine
“Intriguing voicings”- Sounds of Surprise
“Beautiful fluid guitar grooves”- Courtney Pine
“Impressive variety of musical styles”- the Jazz Mann
“Wonderful guitar solo”- the Funk and Soul Review

 Chris Cobbson (guitar)
 Andrew Hooley (saxophone and clarinet)
 Paul Jefferies (acoustic and electric bass)
 Mike Cypher (drums)

Third man, Plant Species & Meg Wassell
2025-11-08 19:00 - 22:00 | The Melville Theatre, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom
Join us for a night of live music that includes:
Indie Rock
Rock Pop Psychedelia
Jazz/Blues/Soul

Thrifty
2025-11-14 19:00 - 21:30, 2025-11-15 19:00 - 21:30 | The Melville Theatre, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom
Step into a world where bargain bins brim with secrets, and second-hand treasures spark unforgettable tales—Thrifty, the dazzling new comedy by Cecilia Bawler, transforms a humble charity shop into a riotous stage for laughter, love, and a few surprising revelations. With every actor shape-shifting into a cast of quirky staff and eccentric customers, this heartwarming romp invites you to discover how far people will go to support a cause unlike any other. Come for the comedy, stay for the compassion—Thrifty is not just a play, it’s a feel-good frenzy of human connection, priced to make your heart sing.

The Remi Harris Hot Club Trio
2025-11-21 19:30 - 21:30 | The Melville Theatre, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom
The Remi Harris Hot Club Trio – on tour across the UK in 2025

One of the UK’s most exciting guitarists, Remi Harris is joined by double bassist Tom Moore and rhythm guitarist Chris Nesbitt to present an enthralling evening of Gypsy Jazz and Blues. Combining musical virtuosity with passion and flair, this dynamic trio deliver a mesmerising show inspired by Django Reinhardt, Peter Green, Wes Montgomery, Jimi Hendrix and Joe Pass.

Since the age of seven, Remi has dedicated himself to a life of guitar. His playing has taken him from busking on the streets of his local towns to performing at many prestigious events and venues including Buckingham Palace, Montreal Jazz Festival, BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall with Jamie Cullum, and on national radio and television.

Remi has been performing with Tom Moore for over ten years, during which time they have developed a remarkable musical affinity. Since graduating from The Royal Birmingham Conservatoire in 2011 where he is currently based, Tom has performed around the UK with a variety of bands and musical projects. Starting at a young age on guitar and quickly moving to bass, he has appeared at high profile venues including the Royal Albert Hall and The North Sea Jazz Festival, and more recently supporting Jools Holland.

Chris Nesbitt is a jazz and blues guitarist and teacher from Northern Ireland, currently based in the South West. Since graduating from Bath Spa University – where he now lectures – Chris has performed with various groups across the UK, playing gypsy jazz, blues, rock and RnB.

In 2025 Remi will also be touring with his blues rock project Man of the World: the Music of Peter Green, performing at venues selling out months in advance. He has recently released his third book Gypsy Jazz Soloing Etudes, a follow-up to his previous book 100 Gypsy Jazz Guitar Licks, which made it into the Top 10 in the Amazon Charts, as well as working on a keenly anticipated new album.

Remi’s unique style continues to win him fans from around the world and he has an enthusiastic following on social media that is growing exponentially. His output has also been attracting attention from increasingly renowned quarters, receiving rave reviews from the likes of Dr Martin Taylor MBE who recently said, ‘Remi is a phenomenal player specialising in both gypsy jazz, and blues guitar. He’s a true master of both genres’. With a formidable technique and a genuine passion for the guitar, the ease and warmth of Remi’s stage presence, together with his virtuoso talent, will have concert goers captivated.

Owl Light Trio and Rholben
2025-11-22 19:30 - 21:30 | The Melville Theatre, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom
An evening of exquisite folk music from two Oxfordshire-based bands.

Owl Light Trio are Jim Penny on concertina, Jane Griffiths on fiddle and viola and Colin Fletcher on guitar.
All three musicians have deep roots in traditional music, share a passion for tunes from Ireland, the UK and Brittany, and draw upon their combined influences to create complex, compelling and heartfelt arrangements. Between them they have performed and recorded with Maddy Prior, Nancy Kerr, Tim van Eyken, Red Dog Green Dog and Duotone.
The trio released their second album ‘Sound into Light’ last year to glowing reviews.
“Beautifully played, full of tunes to dance to and brimming with charm” – Tradfolk.

Rholben’s interpretations of the traditional music of Wales are full of tenderness, wit, and deep emotion. The sublime voice of Siriol Davies is backed by thoughtful guitar, melodic bass, sweeping strings, and lush vocal harmony to create a sound that feels light and current whilst also feeling as weighty and old as the hill from which they take their name.
They are Siriol Davies (vocals, oboe), John Ruddock (Guitar), Colin Fletcher (Double Bass), Jane Griffiths (Viola, Fiddle) and Giles Lewin (Fiddle).

A BIG CHRISTMAS COMEDY JAM
2025-12-05 19:30 - 21:30 | The Melville Theatre, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom
It was the night before Christmas… and the house was filled with JAM.
The Meliville Theatre and Alec Crane (a man of jam) are proud to bring you A BIG CHRISTMAS COMEDY JAM. An evening dedicated to all things comedy that isn’t just stand-up. There will be comedy, music, clowning, a harpist, and JAM. Christmas games, prizes, and, we can’t stress this enough… JAM.
Your lineup includes
Anna Soden!
Anna is a comedian, actor and award-nominated pantomime cow. Her work has been featured on Absolute Radio, BBC, and has millions of views on social media. “Very funny”-Harry Hill, “Supurb with a real gift for comedy”-British Theatre Guide.

John James Davies is Alister Henceforth!
Character comedian and all-around human man.Reb Day!
Reb is a comedian known for her “razor-sharp storytelling and dry charm”. She came second in this year’s So You Think You’re Funny? Competition, making her one of the top up-and-coming comics in the country. She is currently opening for Ria Lina on her nationwide tour “Riabellion” and appeared on Dave’s Go 8 Bit: DLC, where she was a series regular.
And your headliner, Sam Hickman!
‘Transatlantic singer/harpist/comedian, dubbed ‘The Sensational Sam Hickman’ by The British Comedy Guide, ‘Tom Lehrer of the comedy Harp’ by FringeReview and like ‘Michelle Visage with the musician and comedic ability of Victoria Wood’ by BroadwayBaby. She’s been treading the boards all over the place! Most notably at Wales Millennium Centre, Komedia Brighton, and Kings Head theatre London, just to name a few. She considers herself at home in her adopted home, like every Cardiff resident she has had a cameo on BBC’s Casualty.Plus… Father Christmas!We can’t wait to share all our Christmas joy with you. ”

Experience the Beatles
2025-12-06 19:30 - 22:30 | The Melville Theatre, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom
Experience The Beatles Wales’ premiere Beatles tribute show takes you back in time to relive the height of Beatlemania from the Mop-tops to the Rooftops they do it all from ‘Love Me Do to Let It Be’ with authentic equipment and costume changes it is the ultimate experience. With over 30 greatest hits in a 2 hour spectacular their cheeky wit this young group of musicians channels the spirit, the charm and the sound of The Beatles when they first burst onto the scene so get ready to ‘Come Together’ and Twist and Shout’ and fall in love all over again!

Ring Round The Moon
2025-12-11 19:30 - 2025-12-13 14:30 | The Melville Theatre, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom
RING ROUND THE MOON
Step into a glittering winter-garden ball where mischief, mistaken identity, and matters of the heart collide. Twin brothers — the scheming Hugo and the hopelessly romantic Frédéric — find themselves entangled in a whirl of love, money, and masquerade. With a poor ballet dancer posing as a society belle, a rich heiress in pursuit, and a host of eccentric guests, everyone’s going “round the moon” — in love with the wrong person, clinging to old dreams, and stumbling into farce.
Suitcase Theatre brings Jean Anouilh’s elegant, witty comedy (translated by Christopher Fry) to life with a festive twist — sparkling, romantic, and full of mischief. Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Tickets available at www.suitcasetheatrecompany.com

Nutcrackers - Family Show
2025-12-18 18:30 - 20:00, 2025-12-19 18:30 - 20:00, 2025-12-20 14:00 - 16:30, 2025-12-23 18:30 - 20:00 | The Melville Theatre, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom
NUTCRACKERS!
Nutcrackers is an utterly magical and playful take on the festive fairytale by E.T.A. Hoffmann – sharing this familiar story in a way you’ve never seen before! Follow Clara as she is transported through imaginative lands where she’ll meet some familiar…and unfamiliar characters! From the Sugar Plum Fairy to the King of Chaos – Nutcrackers is an unforgettable theatrical experience where anything is possible!
A cracking way to start your family’s Christmas celebrations! Suitable for all ages.

Nutcrackers - Nursery show (ages 6 & Under)
2025-12-19 11:00 - 12:30 | The Melville Theatre, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom

Nutcrackers - Adult show (16+)
2025-12-20 19:30 - 21:00 | The Melville Theatre, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom
NUTCRACKERS!
Nutcrackers is an utterly magical and playful take on the festive fairytale by E.T.A. Hoffmann – sharing this familiar story in a way you’ve never seen before! Follow Clara as she is transported through imaginative lands where she’ll meet some familiar…and unfamiliar characters! From the Sugar Plum Fairy to the King of Chaos – Nutcrackers is an unforgettable theatrical experience where anything is possible!
A cracking way to start your family’s Christmas celebrations!

Santa's ultimate Christmas party
2025-12-21 16:30 - 18:00, 2025-12-23 16:30 - 18:00 | The Melville Theatre, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom
Meet Santa and our festive fairytale characters at the ultimate Christmas party!
Ice a gingerbread man,
play silly games,
pose with the Sugar Plum Fairy and enjoy yummy delights from our cafe!
Suitable for all ages.
Booking required & adults free! Ho ho ho!!

Nutcrackers - Relaxed Performance
2025-12-21 18:30 - 21:00 | The Melville Theatre, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom

Some Miraculous Promised Land
2026-01-13 19:00 - 21:00 | Melville Centre Cafe-Bar, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom
Richard Gwyn will be in conversation with poet and broadcaster Clare Potter. Tuesday 13th January @ 7pm Melville Theatre Cafe/bar.
Some Miraculous Promised Land is the story of James Dickson Innes (1887-1914) — one of the most original and outstanding of British artists, whose star shone briefly in the years before World War One.
Richard Gwyn’s new book follows in the footsteps of the young painter across Wales, London and Paris to the French Pyrenees, southern Spain and Morocco, and chronicles Dick Innes’ love affair with Euphemia Lamb and his losing battle with tuberculosis.

Youth Theatre
2026-01-18 10:30 - 2026-06-28 13:30 | The Melville Theatre, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom
We are excited to let you know that the Savoy Youth Theatre is now running regular sessions on a Sunday at the Melville Theatre Abergavenny and we currently have spaces available in both the Junior and Senior groups. The sessions are a fun, supportive way for young people to build confidence, creativity, and performance skills through drama and theatre.

If you would like more information about the Savoy Youth Theatre, or would like your child to come along and try a session for free, please contact us by email at – savoyyt@gmail.com

Scenic Arts Workshops
2026-01-18 14:00 - 2026-03-21 17:00 | The Melville Theatre, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom
Start your career in Theatre Production.

Scenery
Props
Puppets
Masks
Costume making

Elijah Jeffery & Eddie Gripper
2026-01-25 20:00 - 22:30 | The Melville Theatre, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom
Black Mountain Jazz Club is delighted to welcome back two Cardiff-based musicians well known to BMJ audiences.

Vocalist–songwriter Elijah Jeffery and award-winning pianist Eddie Gripper join forces to present their acclaimed new CD (self-entitled, ‘Elijah Jeffery & Eddie Gripper’ ) currently on a UK wide tour, with a striking blend of original songs and a bold reimagining of Purcell’s 17th-century aria, praised for its imaginative, genre-defying approach.

Their live performance weaves together progressive pop, indie folk, and alternative jazz, taking audiences on a captivating musical journey. From the folk-inspired ‘Shifting Seasons’ to the introspective jazz ballad ‘Because of You’, the art-pop energy of ‘Close Your Eyes’ and a fresh take on ‘Dido’s Lament’, Elijah and Eddie showcase their flair for storytelling and innovative composition.
With a shared passion for pushing musical boundaries, their performance promises an intimate yet adventurous experience that resonates across genres, making this a must-see evening for lovers of inventive, genre-defying music.

Hampshire-born vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Elijah Jeffery brings influences ranging from the Great American Songbook to contemporary folk, whilst English pianist Eddie Gripper – hailed for his melodic charm and already compared with the greats – adds a distinctive blend of jazz, folk and modern classical colour.

“These are songs that convince both musically and lyrically, there is real musical and emotional intelligence at work here” – Ian Mann, TheJazzMann

“Both halves of the duo excel on this recording, both in their quality and restraint, but it is their joint passion for song writing that shines brightest.” – Neil Duggan, All About Jazz

Abergavenny Day Rave
2026-02-07 15:00 - 17:00 | The Melville Theatre, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom
Need to cut some shapes, but not found a dancefloor? Want to get the family moving, but don’t know how? NP BEATS presents a day rave for all the family, playing the best in disco, funk, pop, dnb, house, techno and much more. Why not shimmy into town for a Saturday afternoon shindig with real life vinyl DJ’s, disco light show and a live MC. With a craft area for the kids and an open bar & café to keep you hydrated, be sure to don your ravewear and bring along your friends!
This is a family event, and all under 12’s will need to be accompanied by an adult. Teens age 13 – 16 may attend with a consent form signed by parents – Please click here to complete.

BMJ Collective with guest John Crawford
2026-02-08 19:00 - 21:30 | The Melville Theatre, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom
BMJ Collective welcome pianist John Crawford back to Black Mountain Jazz Club for an exciting
evening of contemporary jazz. John has previously performed at the Club alongside the extraordinary
cellist Shirley Smart, and we’re thrilled to have him return as a featured guest.
John Crawford blends jazz sophistication with the fire of Latin rhythm. With English and Spanish
roots, he was raised on blues and immersed in salsa, flamenco, and Afro-Cuban traditions – a fusion
that defines his sound.
He has performed at world-renowned festivals like Montreal, North Sea and San Sebastián,. He is no
stranger to iconic venues – including Ronnie Scott’s, the Royal Albert Hall, and the 606 Club.
An Independent Music Award nominee, John’s albums Ulia River of Time, Times and Tides and his
latest Room for Dancing have earned critical praise for their vibrant energy and heartfelt lyricism.
A passionate educator and rhythm fanatic, John’s books on Latin piano (published by Schott and
OUP) have become go-to resources worldwide. Whether on stage or in the studio, his music is always
alive with groove, emotion, and an infectious love of dance.
Renowned for their dynamic interplay and adventurous improvisation, the BMJ Collective blend
strong grooves with expressive modern arrangements. Together with John Crawford, the group
promises a vibrant, engaging performance, delivered in the club’s intimate, up-close setting at The
Melville Centre in Abergavenny.
Website
www.johncrawfordpiano.com

Half Term Acting workshops
2026-02-16 10:00 - 2026-02-20 15:00 | The Melville Theatre, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom
5-DAY ACTING WORKSHOP
February Half Term
Ages 11–17
10am–3pm
Book now: www.improvstarsacademy.com

Jack & the Beanstalk
2026-02-16 11:00 - 12:00 | The Melville Theatre, The Melville Centre, Pen-y-Pound, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5UD, United Kingdom
And we’re kicking things off with our own version of Jack & the Beanstalk this February half term. ‘With the Giant’s away on their holiday, Fairy Flora has been tasked to look after their castle and protect their precious gold. With a series of beanstalks recently sprouting as high as the clouds, it’s only a matter of time before someone climbs to Giant’s land in search of treasure. Could you lend our fairy friend a helping hand in this exciting, storytelling adventure?’ We’ll be performing at the following venues… Mon 16th Feb: Melville Theatre AbergavennyThere will be both morning & afternoon shows available.

Teddy Bear's Picnic - Sugar Paste workshop
2026-02-17 10:00 - 2026-02-19 11:00 | Monmouthshire
Stimulate young imaginations with the use of sugar paste as an art material! We’ll
learn fun and delightful modelling skills which are suitable for all abilities.
Make your own special teddy bear and their own miniature picnic to take to the
woods with his friends.
We’ll also make up our own stories about the adventures the bears will have on
their day out. All materials provided!
Workshop led by Deborah Blake, Cake Artist and Author.

Storytelling & Sugar paste Creative Workshop Age 10+
2026-02-17 11:30 - 2026-02-19 13:00 | Monmouthshire
The storytelling through sugar paste workshop is a delightful and fun way of
stimulating the imagination with the use of sugar paste, cutters, and moulds. We
also use 2D and 3D modelling skills to create a picture collage that will tell a story,
uncover a legend or inspire an adventure.
All materials will be provided, come along and have some fun!!
Workshop led by Deborah Blake, Cake Artist and Author.
