For most of 2020, and for the longest period in its 90-year history except during World War II, Cecil Sharp House has been shut to the general public.
Behind the scenes though, the English Folk Dance and Song Society has employed innovative means to ensure its national activities – including National Youth Folk Ensemble residentials and numerous projects in research, education and professional development – have continued behind closed doors.
But the wide range of events which give the House its life – gigs, talks and classes and much before besides – have been sorely missed. So, while some courses will remain accessible online for national and international audiences to enjoy, we are delighted to announce the (partial) re-opening of this much loved venue in early 2021.
Cecil Sharp House is certified Covid-secure, with detailed procedures for the safety and peace of mind of all visitors, artists and staff. Gigs will be socially distanced: each household bubble will be separated by at least 1m. But we are making every effort to preserve that special communal feeling of being in the room, live with the performers. For example, you will still be able to take refreshments into Kennedy Hall for the gig, which you will be asked to book in advance.
Book with confidence: if you can no longer attend the event, please let us know in advance. We can offer vouchers towards a future purchase, or a full refund.
Gigs in 2021 will include
- The Bass Wanderers
Thursday 4th February: the very first gig for nearly a year at Cecil Sharp House! Bassoon, guitar, cello and djembe combine in this new folk band.
- Tom Moore & Archie Churchill-Moss
Thursday 11th February: two of the best young players and innovators from a precociously gifted generation in folk.
- Ben Savage & Hannah Sanders
Thursday 18th February: a remarkable acoustic duo with a highly distinctive sound.
- Show of Hands with Michael Wood
Saturday 17th April: our limited Covid-secure capacity is already SOLD OUT.
- Oysterband
Thursday 6th May (5pm and 8pm): the international folk-rock legends return with not one but TWO live performances – each of them a full 90-minute set.
- Lau
Thursday 13th May: the pioneering Scottish folk trio unplugged the first time in over a decade.
- Peggy Seeger and Calum MacColl
Thursday 27th May: the charismatic and truly legendary singer, songwriter, feminist and icon is joined by her son Calum for a glorious up-close performance.
- With more gigs to be announced – watch this space!
And more...
In addition to these live performances, a wide range of other activities is being reinstated for 2021.
- The Vaughan Williams Memorial Library is reopening (by appointment only), initially on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
- We are planning to bring Folk Unlimited back into the venue for disabled 12–30 year olds, their friends, parents and carers.
- Cecil Sharp House Choir is expected to return to the building from 20 January, with a blended solution throughout the spring so that singers who are not yet able to return in person can continue to attend online.
- Various spaces around the venue are also available to hire for meetings, rehearsals, filming and more.
Continuing online activities
We hope to welcome you back to Cecil Sharp House before too long!
