It’s a summer of science and technology across the borough, with the tech-themed Summer Reading Challenge in the libraries, and a goldmine of free public events about science, gimmicks and gadgets.
Appearing last Wednesday in the Upper Atrium of the Amelia Scott building, next to the teen and adult library section, award-winning children’s author Vashti Hardy explained the importance of science and engineering to her work.
The world-building in her children’s fantasy novels depends heavily on science and technology, while science and engineering also drive her create logical, scientifically minded characters.
Meanwhile, at the Assembly Hall, an afternoon session the same day introduced primary school children and their families to the ways in which STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematic) elements are used to create theatrical special effects.
Meanwhile, a combination of circuits and chemistry can be combined to create stage pyrotechnics.
The Council-sponsored events supplement the free Cabaret Mechanical Marvels exhibition, also at the Amelia Scott building in the exhibition space.
The exhibition, produced by Cabaret Mechanical Theatre, features contemporary mechanical automata, part of a modern revival of the 17th century golden age of mechanical gadgets.
The theme of the Summer Reading Challenge this year is science and technology, with characters created specially for the holiday library programme by children’s author and illustrator Julian Beresford, in association with the Science Museums Group.
‘Gadgeteers’ Aisha, Eddie, Leo, Maggie, James and Ajay all use technology to experience the world around them – even tackling problems like waste, for example through Maggie’s sustainability-minded approach to food and nutrition.
The Reading Agency’s Summer Reading Challenge is on in local libraries. The Cabaret Mechanical Marvels exhibition is on at the Amelia Scott Exhibition Space until October 2.
On Stage & Screen
Michael Hackett and Mat Wills take Pembury Village Hall by storm tomorrow night (August 11) in this one-off special bringing side-splittingly funny stand-up comedy. Joined by two mystery guests, the pair promise a knee-slapper of a show with a selection of craft beers, ciders, top wines, and more on offer throughout the night. Tickets start at £18.90, from Eventbrite.
Laugh out loud as Changeling Theatre bluff and bluster their way through Oscar Wilde’s satirical masterpiece, The Importance of Being Earnest at Penshurst Place on August 12. Robert Forknall directs a tale of deception, disguise, and hysterical misadventure. Bring a blanket to take your place in the outdoor theatre.
In the name of comedy, drama, and a whole lot of theft, Rusthall Community Cinema takes you back to the 1960s in ‘The Duke’, in which Goya’s portrait of the Duke of Wellington is stolen from the National Gallery by an unlikely thief. Described as a ‘simple but charming cup of Northern goodness’, this infamously true story is a must-see this weekend. (August 13)
Going Live
Jazz on The Pantiles takes place on the bandstand in the centre of The Pantiles every Thursday night throughout summer and tomorrow night (August 11) is no exception. So far this year, performers have included The Skatonics, Spice Fusion, and Derek Nash, so don’t miss out – make an evening of it by booking a table at one of the participating restaurants including La Casa Vecchia and The Kirthon.
Both Sides Now, a band dedicated to the iconic songs of Joni Mitchell, comes to Hever Castle this Friday. (August 12) Not so much a tribute band as an evening exploring Joni’s amazing songwriting legacy, the five-piece group of musicians journey through three decades of Joni’s song writing career including ‘Blue’, ‘Woodstock’, ‘A Case of You’ and ‘Big Yellow Taxi’.
For something a little more classical, visit Hever Castle on August 13 for an extravagant medley of operatic greats, including the Habañera and The Toreador’s Song from Carmen, by Opera Brava.
After a night of disco, house, and dance classics? Join the legendary Tunbridge Wells Forum on August 13 for a night of old school bangers. Best known for his work with Fatboy Slim as well as his own massive 2000 UK No.1 chart hit ‘Because Of You’, DJ Richard Scanty joins international DJ Markus Holler for a fantastic night fit for enthusiastic clubbers of all ages. (18+ only)
Family Fun
Let your inner artist flourish as you create beautiful works of art using natural materials at Ightham Mote this Thursday (August 11). This family-friendly event gives adults and children of all ages the opportunity to explore their creativity with like-minded people this summer. Activities run from 11.00am until 3.00pm and whilst bookings are not needed, admission still applies.
Mineral enthusiasts are set to be wowed by the amazing array of crystals and precious stones on sale at the Rock, Gem ‘n’ Bead Show on August 13 and 14 at The Hop Farm. Exhibitors from across Europe will show off and sell precious ornaments including fossils and beads ranging from pocket money prices to thousands of pounds, meaning there’s a gift to suit all budgets.
From a fruity red to a dry white, you might think you’ve got the world of wine down, but The Green Duck Coffee House and Bar is here to prove you wrong. With a selection of new vintage wines soon to be hitting their shelves, a visit on August 17 is an absolute must. Get ready to indulge in the good stuff at this Southern Hemisphere wine tasting evening where you’ll enjoy New Zealand Pinot Gris and Argentinian Bonarda, amongst other familiar favourites.
