What happens when theatre meets art? And why should life-drawing be all about a nude on a box?

Join us for a unique take on the traditional life-drawing class. Alive & Drawing events feature varied and sometimes surprising set-ups, using props, music, lights, costumes, movement, narrative, masks and more to inspire you and awaken the artist’s sense of adventure.

Suitable for all abilities and any age over 10yrs. Beginners very welcome!

Tatterdemalion play folk tunes which were being used in Dorset in the 19th Century, now brought to the modern day with verve and energy. The Big Dorset Midwinter Ceilidh is a great way to work meet up with friends again after the busy festive period.

This year there is an early evening 'Kiddies' Keilidh' for young families to enjoy an hour of dances more suited to shorter legs. Then later, the bar will be open to quench the thirst of the grown-ups who stay or come for the evening. A treat for those who enjoy the simpler things in life, such as fine company, good music, and energetic dancing!

Join Dorchester-based band Tatterdemalion at this ceilidh for all the family. Traditional tunes from Dorset, taught by experienced dance caller Angela Laycock, and played with energy and verve by this colourful group of musicians. No experience necessary.

The afternoon session is especially for families with younger children, while the evening is for everyone. No partner necessary, as you can always find someone there!

Calling all aspiring performers! Dorchester Arts and Dorchester Youth Theatre present a weeklong musical theatre course which gives young people aged 10 – 18 the opportunity to work together to create and perform a full length performance of ‘Seussical JR’. To be involved you must be available for all dates, including the performance which will take place on the Friday night. A full commitment is required for all sessions. For further details about the sessions and performance contact dyt@dorchesterarts.org.uk.

Our Summer MT gives young people aged 10 – 18 years the opportunity to work together, for a week of acting, singing and movement, leading to full-length performance.

To be involved you must be available from 22 July – 26 July. Performance will take place on the Friday night. Full commitment required for all sessions.

The participant fee for the week is £125. An optional hot meal can be purchased at £6 per day (all dietary requirements will be catered for)

The incredible story of a cycling legend to celebrate the Tour Of Britain passing through Dorchester.

In 1998 Marco Pantani, the most flamboyant and popular cyclist of his era, won both the Tour de France and Giro d’Italia, a titanic feat of physical and mental endurance that no rider has repeated since. He was a hero to millions, the saviour of cycling following the doping scandals which threatened to destroy the sport. However, less than six years later, aged just 34, he died alone, in a cheap hotel room, from acute cocaine poisoning. He had been an addict for five years. This is the story of the tragic battles fought by the most important Italian cyclist of his generation; man versus mountain, athlete versus addiction, Marco Pantani versus himself.

The film is a must for all cycling fans, as it captures all the drama and thrilling spectacle of the sport, but is equally fascinating as a human-interest story.

Age Guidance: 15+

‘…a fitting tribute to a worthy ‘King of the Mountains’ (CineVue)

‘Essential watching, even for anyone who can’t stand the sport’ (Total Film)