The “Westival”, Taunton’s festival of music, theatre and visual arts, is taking place from 21-29 July. Many of this year’s events are being staged in the courtyard of Taunton Castle.
On 23 July, people can enjoy “An Audience with Henry VIII” starring Mike Farley, one of the UK’s leading impersonators of the famous King. A sell-out when he has appeared at the Castle before, Mike uses his imposing figure, booming voice, wicked humour and musical skills to show what life was like during Tudor times, while the audience are treated to a feast of authentic medieval nibbles.
Then on 25 July, “Blood and Glory: Tales of Taunton and its Castle” will recount Taunton’s colourful past. Tom Mayberry, Somerset historian and County Heritage Officer, reveals the history of Taunton’s medieval castle including stories of the luckless Perkin Warbeck, the bitterly fought sieges that helped to change the outcome of the English Civil War and how prisoners sang psalms and hymns while awaiting execution after the Bloody Assizes in 1685.
The money raised through both events will go towards Somerset County Council’s Museum of Somerset fundraising appeal. Recently launched by Mick Aston of television’s “Time Team”, the campaign aims to secure £250,000 of the total £6.5M required to restore Taunton Castle and create a modern museum within.
Full details and tickets for all Westival events are available from www.westival.co.uk or by telephoning the Brewhouse Theatre on 01823 283244.