An evening of stories, songs and a little bit of showbiz.
Hay Festival After Hours takes you from the larger-than-life world of pantomime with Craig Revel Horwood, through the stories behind Britain’s most memorable Christmas number ones with Bob Stanley, to live music from one of Wales’ most exciting emerging talents, Betsan.
Craig Revel Horwood pulls back the curtain on the wonderful world of panto. The Strictly Come Dancing judge and Olivier-nominated choreographer explores the colourful history of the art form in The Book of Panto, from its ancient international roots to the much-loved British tradition we know today. A seasoned pantomime performer for twenty years, Craig traces the moments that turned him from a sceptic into a whole-hearted fan and advocate for panto. Expect backstage tales, larger-than-life characters and, naturally, plenty of “oh yes he does”.
Award-winning writer, musician, DJ and founding member of Saint Etienne, Bob Stanley takes us on a nostalgic journey through Britain’s enduring obsession with the Christmas number one. In The Twelve Songs of Christmas, he charts seven decades of festive chart battles, from Gene Autry and the Beatles to Slade, Band Aid, the Spice Girls and Wham!, revealing the stories behind the songs that have become part of our collective Christmas soundtrack.
Adding a live musical spark to the evening is Betsan, the Welsh soul and jazz-influenced singer-songwriter making waves across the UK’s emerging pop scene. Drawing on influences including Olivia Dean and RAYE, Betsan blends indie-folk with jazz harmony. Her Welsh-language single Awst, a poignant reflection on grief, friendship and showing up for the people who matter, was named BBC Radio Wales’ A-List ‘Track of the Week’.
Three brilliant performers, one unforgettable evening. It promises to be Fab-u-lous! Join us for After Hours.
