Movema Schools Workshops - Image Credit: Ted Stargatt

As part of our children and young people’s programme we are working with Bristol-based dance company, Movema to deliver a year long activity of dance in local schools and at Trinity.

“It's been incredible to see individuals participate and have a positive attitude” - Teacher feedback

For the first part of the project, delivered in the autumn/winter term, Movema connected with Hannah More, St Nicolas of Tolentine and Evergreen primary schools to deliver their ‘World in a Box’ dance programme. Children who attend these schools have higher levels of protected characteristics including Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND).

In collaboration with teachers, the company identified children whose access to the arts may be limited by opportunity to take part in weekly workshops at their school. Across eight weeks, 174 children aged 5yrs-10yrs took part in the programme which included workshops exploring Indian, Caribbean and African dance, games and confidence-building activities and elements of arts and crafts.

The workshops had a positive impact on the children who took part; 80% of the children taking part said they had learned more about different cultures, 73% agreed they had learned new dance skills and 86% said they now wanted to do more dance as a result of taking part in the programme.

During the next stage of the programme in the winter and spring terms, children will be invited to take part in World Dance workshops during school holidays which will culminate in sharing what they've learned with their families and friends. Following this,  Carnival Dance Workshops will take place at Trinity. In these workshops, children will have the opportunity to celebrate celebrate St. Pauls Carnival.

Click here to read the announcement of our partnership with Movema.

In Memoriam: Andre ‘Onj’ Sparkfield, 1958-2025: Rest in the light

We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Andre ‘Onj’ Sparkfield, a true legend of the festivals scene.

Onj lit up the night sky at countless gatherings and events; not least through his many incredible free fireworks displays over the years at Trinity. These spectacular shows captured the spirit of creativity, joy and community. Displays that stopped traffic, attracted thousands and served as a cornerstone of what makes a city like Bristol sparkle.

His passion for bringing people together to witness something truly awesome, his DIY ethos and his unwavering energy embodied everything that makes grassroots culture so wonderful to be part of. Onj’s contributions over this time have been truly unforgettable and have provided so many of us with such magical memories.

Generosity, warmth, artistry and love. What a privilege it was to witness such a thing, just for a moment.

Scottish avant-folk foursome Trembling Bells will be joined by American singer songwriter and cult hero, Bonnie Prince Billy (aka Will Oldham) at Bristol Trinity on May 3. The south west section of this UK tour is supported by Routes Southwest.

Trembling Bells' fresh approach to folk has been garnering praise from fans and critics. Stuart Maconie describes their music as "wild and romantic, witty and heartbreaking. It has both the charm of folk music and the power of rock".

Bonnie Prince Billy is a legendary figure who has produced more than 20 albums. He was a pioneer of Americana and has carved himself a reputation as an unpredictable genius. He has worked under the name Bonnie Prince Billy, Will Oldham, the Palace Brothers and Palace Music.

In this most recent collaboration, Bonnie Prince Billy will join Bells' lead vocalist Lavinia Blackwall to sing a set featuring new songs, most of which will appear on their collaborative, forthcoming album, The Marble Downs.

With Lavinia and Bonnie Prince Billy at the helm, the duo will be supported by Trembling Bells songwriter Alex Neilson on drums, Simon Shaw on bass and Mick Hastings on guitar to perform a mix of originals, covers and traditional songs.

For more information on both artists, head to www.myspace.com/tremblingbells and www.bonnieprincebilly.com.