Madhouse Promotions Presents

Marisa And The Moths

Since the release of their debut-titled album in 2019 the band has gone from strenght to strength!

Saturday 22nd March
The Ferret, Preston

Tickets:

Marisa And The Moths are turning heads with their unique alternative rock sound and powerhouse female vocals. Marisa’s lyrics delve into heavy topics such as mental health, toxic relationships, trauma and sexuality, resonating deeply with her fellow misfits and anyone that has ever dealt with similar hardships.

Madhouse Promotions Presents

Marisa And The Moths

Support TBA

Saturday 22nd March

The Ferret, Preston

Tickets: skiddle.com/e/40372045

HOUSE Of ALL

with [slab]

The Ferret, Preston
Thurs 20th March 2025

Tickets on sale now!

No one was expecting the arrival of HOUSE Of ALL, a group comprised entirely of former members of The Fall: Martin Bramah (vocals, guitar), Pete Greenway (guitar), Paul Hanley (drums, vocals), Stephen Hanley (bass) and ‘Funky’ Si Wolstencroft (drums), Indeed, the first news of the group for most was an article in The Guardian about a ‘scandal’ caused by Martin’s (technically accurate) use of the phrase ‘a Fall family continuum’ to describe the band and its work, a piece which arrived in tandem with news of the group’s HOUSE Of ALL album, which sold by the bucketload and received tremendous praise from all corners. 

A year later, CONTINUUM arrived, a long-player every bit as good as its predecessor. The boys toured behind each record, as well as enjoying the odd one-off gig here and there to satiate fan demand. After each studio albums, they released new fan-only compact disc / booklet packages loaded with live tracks, remixes and radio sessions.

The group’s original pledge to open to other members of The Fall family has been kept with the recent news of a third drummer, Karl Burns, who plays on their forthcoming third album, HOUSE Of ALL SOULS, as well as Phil Lewis filling in live for Pete on live dates and playing on the new album, too.

In perverse keeping with the band’s dark impulses, HOUSE Of ALL SOULS will be released on Valentine’s Day, 2025 . . . precisely a month before the band sets off on a series of live dates designed to surprise and inspire.

A valentine for black hearts! An electric array of magic sounds!

[slab]

"A thrilling slice of post-punk/post-hardcore, full of dynamics"

HOUSE Of ALL with [slab]

The Ferret, Preston
Thurs 20th March 2025

TICKETS: skiddle.com/e/40395051

Doors 7pm

Ages 14+ (under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult)

Accessible ground floor venue & facilities.

Dog-friendly venue.

Enjoy The Show Presents:

SCRATCH NIGHT

Tickets: https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Preston/The-Ferret/Rose-Condo-How-To-Starve-An-Artist-spoken-word/40479733/

Weds Apr 09
The Ferret, Preston

Tickets £6 from Skiddle

Come and see a diverse collection of performances, ranging from theatre and comedy, to spoken word and performance art – literally anything goes.

Scratch Nights are exciting for audiences – they get to see a number of performers and performances from different genres. Expect new work, experimental work, excerpts from longer shows.

Expect performance to be between five mines and 30mins long. Performances will be selected via a call out (deadline February 16, 2025). Expect between four and eight different pieces. Full details of the works being performed will be published after the call out deadline.

Scratch Nights offer an evening dedicated to the development of brand-new work. A chance for artists to put early ideas in front of a live audience to see what sticks. You might be seeing the early beginnings of ideas that will one day turn into fully formed shows.

These informal nights bring new live work to audiences and create a supportive platform for artists to experiment, take risks, test ideas on stage and share new work with peers and wider public. The audience will be offered the opportunity to provide feedback for the performers.

Please note earlier start time of 7.30pm.

What is a Scratch Night?

A Scratch Night is an informal event where artists, playwrights, directors and performers present works in progress, usually in front of an audience.

The ‘scratch’ term comes from the idea of showing something that’s in its early, raw, or rough stage, like a scratch of an idea, as opposed to a fully polished production.

These events are often used as a testing ground for new ideas, and they might feature short performances, excerpts from larger works, or experimental pieces.

Scratch nights are popular in theater and performance arts but can also apply to other creative fields, like dance, music, and film. The audience’s feedback can be an important part of the process, helping creators refine and develop their work further.

They are often more casual, with minimal staging and a focus on the concept or performance rather than elaborate production values.

“Make The Ferret Mad Again” -  Stand Up Comedy in the Heart of Preston! 🤣🎤

Make the Ferret Mad Again is riding high off its own fumes once again at #TheFerret bringing stand-up comedy to the heart of Preston with a lineup to blow your little socks off This month we have another amazing line-up that looks something like this!

Danielle Frances (MC)
Jake Breeze
Amir Bux
Samee Anibaba
Kelly McAteer
Sunny Shine
Gill Gee
Monty Wilson
Fil Milton

—
MTFMA: A monthly comedy night for Preston, and we’ve got the privilege of hosting the laughs at our gaff.

Curated by Fil Milton and featuring guest hosts each month, Make The Ferret Mad Again will land at The Ferret every 3rd Tuesday of each month.

These hilarious nights are FREE ENTRY and the laughs will kick off from 7:30pm (doors at 7pm).
Come and enjoy some Ferret funnies, and Make The Ferret Mad Again!

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Tuesday 18th March 2025
Free entry
7pm Doors / 7:30pm Showtime
Every 3rd Tuesday of the month

The Ferret presents:

Oliver Beardmore

+ Stil Life + Rae Charlea

The Ferret, Preston
Sunday 16th March 2025

Tickets on sale now:

skiddle.com/e/40548537

Following the release of his sophomore EP in 2023 which saw debut BBC Radio One play and a UK Tour, ‘Swimming in the Light of a Cold Star’ sees Oliver return with his signature blend of shoegaze drenched sonic textures and evergreen songwriting. 

Delving into impermanence, emotional disorientation and limerence, Oliver’s sound creates ‘the kind of storm that places a listener within a vacuum trapped between ethereal and existential' (Dylan Grinker, New Sounds).

A regular among London’s premier curated lineups at the George Tavern and Old Blue Last, and now sharing the stage with the likes of White Flowers, Swim School and Junodream, Oliver is a key agent of originality in the post-pandemic shoegaze revival.

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Stil Life - Alternative five-piece band from North West England, crafting dreamy, melodic soundscapes with a blend of guitars and synthesisers.

https://www.instagram.com/stil_lifeuk/

Rae Charlea - (pronounced kar-lee-ah) is a British-Australian singer/songwriter/musician from Melbourne, Australia based in Liverpool, UK.

Inspired by Arctic Monkeys, Sam Fender, Holly Humberstone, Mazzy Star & Lana Del Rey to name a few; Charlea blends lively guitars with soft & ethereal Clairo-esque vocals creating her self-described sound of 'pixie dust infused indie rock'.

Cataloguing the most intimate parts of her life, Charlea leads fans through feelings of being an outsider, fangirl culture and obsession with problematic rockstars, broken homes, and unrequited love/infatuation.

https://www.instagram.com/raecharlea/

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Oliver Beardmore + Stil Life + Rae Charlea

Sunday, 16th March

The Ferret, Preston

£8 ADV, more on the door!

 https://skiddle.com/e/40548537

Ages 14+ (under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult)

Accessible ground floor venue & facilities.

Dog-friendly venue.

Notorious for casting convention aside, Red Snapper embrace dark funk, hip-hop, dub, psychedelic surf, afro-jazz & beautiful, fragile soundscapes.

red snapper - live march 21

+ Barry Gammon + Friends Play DJs: Outpost & Mr Breen

Saturday, 15th March 2024

The Ferret, Preston

7PM - 11PM, + Free After Party 11pm - 2am

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Red Snapper:

Notorious for casting convention aside, and remaining one of the UK’s most forward-thinking and rule breaking live bands, Red Snapper embrace a unique blend of live, euphoric instrumental Afro-Jazz, Future Funk, Dub, Dark Hip-Hop, and fragile soundscapes. 

Red Snapper are proud to announce 13 UK live dates in March 2025, celebrating new releases on Lo Recordings and also 30 years of ‘Reeled and Skinned’, their first album on the legendary Warp Records.

This is an increasingly rare opportunity to catch the legendary musical force in these intimate gig venues. Could be one for the history books…!

Live line up:

Ali Friend – Bass, Vocals, Gato Drum.
Rich Thair – Drums.
Tara Cunningham – Guitar and vocals.
Tom Challenger – Saxophone, Clarinet and Keyboards.

“The only unsurprising thing about Red Snappers creative journey is their unswerving commitment to progression and innovation”.

In November 2024 Red Snapper release the ‘Tight Chest’ EP featuring LA producer David Harrow via Lo Recordings.

A follow up EP featuring the current live line up will be released in 2025 which, combined with the tracks from 'Tight Chest', will form the full vinyl album ‘Barb and Feather’.

Warp records will also be concurrently releasing a unique limited vinyl version of ‘Reeled and Skinned’, the band's acclaimed first outing for the label from back in 1995.

Following the success of their album ‘Everybody Is Somebody’ in 2022, Red Snapper released ‘Live at The Moth Club' (2023), which was a celebration of the band’s famed, worldwide live performances, spanning 3 decades, and recorded at a sell-out show at the end of their 2022 live tour.

The album demonstrates the band’s ability to constantly rework and update new and classic tracks, keeping them impassioned, experimental and as relevant as ever.

With another busy year on the horizon, Red Snapper will be taking their explosive and passionate live set on the road once again in 2025.

Barry Gammon (live):

Barry Gammon are one of the North West's hardest working #electrofunkateers bringing a blend of electronic beats & live instrumentation to get your knees bending & your feet moving. So pull up your best dancing socks & get ready for some daft bangers.

Outpost & Mr Breen (Friends Play DJs):

As an eclectic, genre-hopper of electronic music, Robert Henthorn has been producing tracks for the past 15 years under the name of Outpost and DJing around the country as part of the One Five Eight collective.

Luke Breen (aka MrBreen / Luke Out) began his DJ journey in the early 2000s with Herbal Sessions Soundsystem, playing at venues like Preston’s iconic Caribbean Club. As a visual artist, he led the OneFiveEight collective (2008-2018), which gained recognition for underground exhibitions, workshops, and publications, all driven by a DIY ethos and a commitment to supporting underrepresented artists in both visual arts and music. After moving to Manchester, Luke became a regular DJ at club nights, free parties, and festivals like Beat Herder, Kendal Calling, and Sounds From The Other City.

Now settled back in Preston with his family, Luke regularly DJs at local bars and clubs, delivering eclectic sets that could span anything from Jazz, Latin and Hip-Hop to Afrobeat, Funk, Deep House, and Jungle—always infused with Soul.

- - -

The Ferret presents:

RED SNAPPER (live)
+ Barry Gammon + Friends Play DJs: Outpost & Mr Breen

The Ferret | Preston
Sat 15th March 2025
7pm - 11pm

+ Free After Party 11pm - 2am

Ages 14+ (under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult).
Accessible ground floor venue & facilities.
Dog-friendly venue.

Lady Lazarus (Australia) + Listen Twice + Body Lice

Thu 13th March

Doors 7pm

FREE ENTRY

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Lady Lazarus: "HERE. QUEER. READY FOR A BEER." Australian punk legends on European tour. FOUR PIECE FEMALE PUNK from Sydney, Australia.

Lady Lazarus is a Sydney-born, Berlin-bound punk band combining brash energy, sharp political messaging, and a DIY ethos that refuses to compromise. 

Fronted by Caroline Parks (vocals), with Eva Lozanovska (guitar), Isabel Rakuljic (bass), and Julia Nienhaus (drums). Lady Lazarus channels the raw spirit of punk legends that came before them, described by critics as “a reawakening of our punk ancestors” (Happy Mag , 2024.) 

Known for their unapologetic activism, Lady Lazarus doesn’t just play music—they spark movements. From handcrafting political zines to wearing DIY shirts emblazoned with bold, defiant messages, their art is a rallying cry for marginalized voices. Their inclusive approach to music has seen them champion diverse lineups and organize impactful events like LOUD WOMEN AUSTRALIA to showcase non-male voices in the scene.

Listen Twice: Music needs to move you, both physically and mentally. From heavy guitar, banging drum beats and bass that makes you move; Listen Twice take inspiration from rock, indie and punk (as well as some ska for fun).

Listen Twice offer style of songs that you can love in an instance. Add in the rather fantastic vocals of Kate and you have got a band that can fill any room and get people into the music. After all. Music is what makes the world go round.

Body Lice: Post grunge. FFO The Smashing Pumpkins, Body Lice are looking to bring a strange aesthetic to The Ferret. 

- - -

Lady Lazarus (Australia) + Listen Twice + Body Lice

Thu 13th March

Doors 7pm

FREE ENTRY

Ages 14+ (under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult).

Accessible ground-floor venue & facilities.

Dog-friendly venue.

Madhouse Promotions in associaton with Echelon Talent Agency presents

Party Cannon

Stupefying The UK Tour

The Ferret, Preston

Wednesday 12th March 2025

Tickets & more info: skiddle.com/e/40418524

PARTY CANNON are here to do three things; lower your IQ, get you hench, and raise your sex drive.

Formed in 2010 and hailing from Dunfermline, Scotland, PARTY CANNON have subjected most of the planet to a partying with their own unique brand of slamming brutal death metal they have coined as Party Slam. While infamous for their colourful logo and fun image, PARTY CANNON have proved they are no novelty act and have become well known for their wild inflatable-filled live shows and crowd antics (including the often imitated push-up pit) having played all over the UK, Europe, USA and Asia and on festivals such as SUMMER BREEZE, BAY AREA DEATH FEST, DAMNATION FESTIVAL and BRUTAL ASSAULT.

While the live show may be a party atmosphere, the band back it up with absolutely punishing music – crushing slam riffs, insane blastbeats and inhuman gutturals; music that is comparable to bands such as DEVOURMENT, GORGASM, DYING FETUS and GUTALAX.

The band's 2013 debut EP PARTIED IN HALF cemented their position as a leader of the UK metal scene is widely considered an iconic release in the slam death metal genre. PARTY CANNON's third and most recent album INJURIES ARE INEVITABLE was released in March 2024 via UNIQUE LEADER RECORDS and has been met with great acclaim from fans and critics, many considering it their best and most IQ lowering release to date. With new music on the horizon and a slew of live shows confirmed for 2025, there are no signs of the party stopping any time soon. 

Get ready to experience the IQ lowering campaign and we'll see you in that slow moving circle pit.

Tickets & more info: skiddle.com/e/40418524

Lazuli (France) + support from Jones & Son

Monday, 10th March

The Ferret, Preston

7PM

TICKETS: https://skiddle.com/e/40713640

Formed in 1998, Lazuli has carved a distinctive niche in the global music scene with their innovative sound and eclectic instrumentation which includes the marimba, French horn, and the one-of-a-kind Léode—an instrument invented by the band’s own Claude Leonetti.

Drawing inspiration from a myriad of musical traditions, Lazuli’s performances are more than just concerts, they are immersive experiences that transport audiences into new sonic territories. Their music is a vibrant tapestry of poetry and melody, woven together with a masterful command of unusual instruments. Fronted by Dominique Leonetti’s ethereal vocals and 12- and 6-string guitars, the band also features Arnaud Beyney on guitar, Romain Thorel on keyboards and French horn, Vincent Barnavol on drums, percussion, and marimba, and Claude Leonetti on the Léode.

Lazuli’s upcoming tour promises to be a captivating journey, with the band bringing their signature sound to some of the UK’s most renowned venues.

Supporting Lazuli for most of the dates will be Jones & Son who played an outstanding set at The Cavern Club during their 2023 UK tour. Many will know John Dexter Jones as the front man of the British rock band, Jump. Jones, along with his son, Tal will be performing a mix of classic Jump tunes as well as some original compositions.

https://lazuli-music.com/

Monday, 10th March

The Ferret, Preston

7PM

TICKETS: https://skiddle.com/e/40713640

All ages welcome (under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult).

Accessible ground floor venue & facilities.

Dog-friendly venue.

THURSDAY LIVE, keeping it simple:

Live Music.
Every Thursday.
At The Ferret.

We’re back on Thursday 6th March with:

Pre-Empted - Loud immersive Punk & Metal 3 piece from Blackburn.

Sausage Company - 3 piece alt rock/grunge/punk band from Burnley.

Born On A Monday - Grunge, Punk and Emo from Blackpool.

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🗓️ Thursday 6th March 2025

📍 The Ferret, Preston

⏰ Doors 7PM

👉 FREE ENTRY!

All ages welcome. Under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Accessible ground floor venue, stage, bar & facilities.

Dog friendly venue.

🎤Open Mic Night at The Ferret🎤

1st Tuesday of EVERY month, with host Jamie Brewer!

Our iconic Open Mic Night is happening on the first Tuesday of every month! This month, we’re kicking things off on Tuesday, 4th March, with host Jamie Brewer.

Join us as we welcome local bands and musicians to The Ferret stage to showcase fresh new material and hidden gems. Expect an exciting mix of emerging talent and seasoned performers!

🕖 Open Mic Slots from 7PM
All performers are welcome - Arrive early to secure your spot! Bring your acoustic or electric guitars, backing tracks, keyboards, or whatever you need to show us what you’ve got.

🎶 Basic Backline Provided
We’ve got a drumkit, bass amp, and guitar amp ready for you. Drummers, please bring your breakables. For specific requirements, just get in touch beforehand.

💡 First-Come, First-Served Slots
Make sure to arrive early to grab your moment in the spotlight!

Don’t miss this chance to be part of another amazing year of live music at The Ferret!

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📅 Tuesday, 4th March
🚪 Doors Open at 7 PM
📍 The Ferret, Preston
🎟 FREE ENTRY

Chris Hawkins, F-10 & The Ferret present:

CHRIS HAWKINS AWESOME FRIENDS

ft fantastic up & coming acts:

Déjà Vega
Martial Arts
Holly Head
frederick

Plus your host & DJ on the night: CHRIS HAWKINS (BBC 6 Music).

The Ferret, Preston

Fri 28th Feb 2025

7pm - late

Awesome Friends is curated and hosted by 6 Music's Chris Hawkins, championing the best new and breaking artists and bands at events and festivals across the country, including SXSW, Kendal Calling, and Band On The Wall in Manchester.

Chris Hawkins has a standout show on BBC 6 Music championing alternative anthems and fresh sounds. Chris was an early supporter of emerging acts Sam Fender, Wet Leg and The Lathums, now all headline performers. Awesome Friends serves as a platform for the same emerging, grassroots acts and those destined to be our future musical heavyweights.

Awesome Friends is a dynamic, vibrant live club night that features the most exhilarating up and coming acts and those next in line to dominate headline spots across the world. This could be the next Manchester Lesser Free Trade Hall in 76, Glasgow’s King Tuts Wah Wah Hut in 93 or The Grapes Pub Sheffield in 03 and you will have the distinction of saying ‘you were there’.

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Déjà Vega:

Déjà Vega are vocalist and guitarist Jack Fearon, drummer Tom Webster and bassist Mike Newton. After forming in Cheshire, they made the short journey to Manchester, a fitting backdrop to their gritty, guitar led psychedelia.

Rhythmic and rage-fuelled and boasting surging riffs, Fearon's hypnotic slurring lyrics lurch in and out of poetic chants, battling over chaotic drums and the razor-sharp bass lines underneath. Live, Déjà Vega demonstrate that they're a force to be reckoned with.

They weave together creating a pulsating, driving behemoth of original, powerful, psych rock. The guys have created a notoriety for their incredible, energetic, unrivalled live show.

“There are debut albums that come along once in a while that get you straight away. This is one of them.” - Louder Than War Magazine

“If you’ve never seen them live I implore you to” - Urbanista Magazine UK

https://linktr.ee/dejavegaband

/////

Martial Arts:

“Martial Arts are the best new band in Manchester. It isn’t up for debate. They now just need to conquer everywhere else.” - Aah Magazine

Their intense live performances quickly caught the eyes and ear of a key few. With shows for Akoustik Anarkhy, So Young Magazine, Speedy Wunderground, Now Wave & Beyond The Music Festival achieved through word of mouth alone, the 5 piece have emerged as a must see band from the Manchester underground.

https://www.facebook.com/martialartsband

https://www.instagram.com/martialartsband

https://linktr.ee/martialartsband

/////

Holly Head:

Committed and controversial, Manchester’s rising, kinetic, beat-powered punk four-piece, Holly Head, return for 2025 with their scuffed and confrontational, two-and-a-half-minute blast of incisive social commentary, Whatever Drags You Through It. 

Taking notoriety as a signal of connected audience sympathies and riding on the right side of history, last year’s debut release of the band’s unrelenting debut, No Gain, rushed Holly Head to the front of a proactive, politically-motivated creative community. Written in a police cell following arrest due to Britain’s protest laws, the song provided the key to their first BBC 6 Music live session last November, with the performance used to further cementing their uncompromising conviction and use Holly Head’s music to profile urgent causes.

https://www.instagram.com/hollyhead.band/

linktr.ee/hollyhead

BBC 6 MUSIC NEW MUSIC FIX SESSION

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m00245b3

/////

frederick:

frederick your supper is ready. lee hazlewood in a bath full of gravel and tears. art garfunkels favourite knife is dirty. it's sunset all day because frederick is coming home, dear lady. 

Jack & Arthur from Autocamper bring us a new project: frederick.

/////

CHRIS HAWKINS AWESOME FRIENDS

The Ferret, Preston

Fri 28th Feb 2025

7pm - late

Déjà Vega

Martial Arts

Holly Head

frederick

+ CHRIS HAWKINS DJ SET

Tickets £10 advance.

Tickets: https://skiddle.com/e/40620384

Ages 14+ (under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult)

Accessible ground floor venue & facilities.

Dog-friendly venue.

THURSDAY LIVE, keeping it simple:

Live Music.
Every Thursday.
At The Ferret.

We’re back on Thursday 27th February with:

Defined By: Defined by are the new sound of the northern working classes. What started as the solo project of Lee Egerton, has evolved into a formidable 5 piece band that are ready to storm the stages and put on a live show full of guitar driven indie anthems. Lyrically, they tell the story of ‘real life’ combined with soaring Melodie’s and driving rhythms. Their latest release ‘God’s No Help’ is an example of everything that this band has to offer, and has so far has gripped the hearts of the Uk and European listeners.

Coherent: Hailing from Blackpool, Coherent is music for the people. Check them out here:

www.instagram.com/coherent_official

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🗓️ Thursday 27th February 2025

📍 The Ferret, Preston

⏰ Doors 7PM

👉 FREE ENTRY!

All ages welcome. Under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Accessible ground floor venue, stage, bar & facilities.

Dog friendly venue.

THE FERRET electronic music OPEN MIC

Tuesday, 25th February 2025

The Ferret | Preston

Doors 7PM

Preston's Electronic Music Open Mic (EMOM) returns to The Ferret this Tuesday 25th February.

Slots are up to 20 minutes. Some pre-booked slots have gone but we do have a few left - so email emompreston@gmail.com to grab one. Additional walk-in slots will be available on the night. First come first served.

This is an open stage night for electronic and experimental musicians, aimed at giving local artists a supportive space in which to play live and experiment. Open to all forms of electronic/experimental music including: ambient, chiptune, drone, drum & bass, dub, electronica, electropop, experimental hip-hop, field recordings, glitch, house, industrial, looping, noise, soundscape, synthwave, techno, trance & more!

Get out of your home studio or bedroom, and come out to a fun, supportive night with other enthusiastic tech heads, dabblers and music fans. You don’t need to be an established artist with a full repertoire. This is for anyone who wants to try their hand at playing live in a safe, motivating environment.

Computers, digital boxes, DJ controllers, drum machines, gadgets, groove boxes, keyboard synths, loop stations, modular synths, phone apps, samplers, sequencers… and everything in between. All welcome!

Come out and meet other music makers, producers and creative types from all walks of music making. There should be plenty of time to talk gear, production techniques and a whole range of inspiring ideas.

The event will run from roughly 7pm-11.00pm with wiggle room depending on interest.

Slots are up to 20 minutes. Some pre-booked slots have gone but we do have a few left - so email emompreston@gmail.com to grab one. Additional walk-in slots will be available on the night. First come first served.

Take to The Ferret stage with full live-music PA & sound engineer. We will have a table for you to setup on, and another one to the side, for the next performer to prep their gear. In order for the event to run smoothly, we ask that you prepare a mono or stereo mix of your setup before handing your outputs over to us; we will not be able to mix your outputs for you in the given time. Vocal mics & mic stands available.

Sorry - no acoustic guitars – unless they are being used to generate soundscapes or some other style of music in keeping with the night (e.g. through pedals, FX units etc.)

Additionally, feel free to bring a USB stick containing visuals you'd like to be projected during your set.

Entrance is FREE for both performers and spectators, so gather your friends and fellow electronic music enthusiasts to join us for an incredible night of creativity and musical exploration!

The Ferret, Preston
Tuesday 25th February
7pm - 11pm
Free Entry

All ages welcome (under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult).
Accessible ground floor venue & facilities.
Dog friendly venue.

Slots are up to 20 minutes. Some pre-booked slots have gone but we do have a few left - so email emompreston@gmail.com to grab one. Additional walk-in slots will be available on the night. First come first served.

POPKIDS presents: THE greatest show

The Ferret |Preston

Sunday, 23rd February 2025

1PM-3PM

What to expect...

Each event includes a fully hosted 90-minute show with our resident Popkids Party Host who will take you through the event including meeting our special guest, teaching party dances and playing fun games that the whole family can enjoy. Prizes will be awarded during the games so make sure that you give maximum effort!

We also love bringing along special guests and live performers to every event with us. You will not only get to see them perform live but get up close and personal with them at the meet and greet photo wall to take some photos that will last a lifetime. Previous Special guests include Pikachu, Stitch, Buzz Lightyear, Bluey, Rapunzel, Elsa, Ariel, Moana and many more. For more information of who is at this event please drop us an email on the contact form below.

Our Resident Popkids DJS playing a range of the biggest Chart, Disney classics, Throwback Hits and Party dances to get all the family involved. We even give him his own 20 minute take over during the show where things tend to get a bit crazy!

We also bring the Highest Level Festival Production at the show which may include Confetti, Foam, Lasers, CO2 Jets, Balloons plus much more to help get the party started.

Are there any extra costs whilst inside the event?

Amazing Face painter & Glitter Tattoo Artist - perfect for children or adults to add that extra sparkle to their look for a small cost. Subject to Availability.

Tuck Shop - Why not check out our tuck shop at events which will be selling a range of freshly made Popcorn & Candy Floss, Along with Sweet Bags, Light Up Foam Sticks.

Popkids Merchandise – Subject to availability, Merchandise will now be sold at all Popkids Shows. Why not remember your time with us by purchasing Limited Edition T-Shirts, Beanies, Baby Grows, Wristbands plus more. By purchasing Merchandise, you are helping to support our ever-growing Children’s Entertainment Brand. Pre-Orders can be purchased using the following link (www.popkids.uk) and collected at your specified Event.

Now for some boring but important bits -

We understand that some children have sensitive ears, to help make sure all guests are happy we will always monitor the music level to keep it at a safe Volume of under 80DB, We would always recommend if you are unsure to bring ear defenders to make sure you have the best experience.

Popkids are proud to use venues with enhanced club/live lighting systems and lasers, normally this will be used with a haze machine in a darkened environment to help make the best possible experience and atmosphere. Please note we DO NOT USE STROBE LIGHTING at any of our events.

The bar will be open during the event selling a range of children’s drinks/Juice along with a selection of drinks for adults. Prices will dependant on the venue. No U18’s will no be allowed to purchase drinks from the venues and will need to be accompanied by an adult.

All Popkids events at any venue we are performing at is assumed as standing events. Some venues may provide seating however this is first come, first serve and cannot be reserved under any circumstance by members of the team. Most venues are all ground level however in some situation there in may be stairs involved to gain access to the venue. If you are unsure if this affects yourself, please contact us today for more information regarding accessibility.

Buggy’s and prams are permitted inside the venues, however we do also offer a buggy park where you can safely collapse and leave your buggy during the event. You can access this should you need to at any time during the show. We cannot be held liable for any loss of damage to your possession’s whist in the venue.

You must be responsible for your own children whist in the venue, and they must always remain under your supervision. Any Children left unattended will not be able to stay in the venue once reunited with adults and there will be no refunds if you are asked to leave due to safety.

By attending our Popkids event, you agree for any photos or videos taken during the event to be used by Popkids for promotional purpose, including use on social media. If you do not wish for your photo or your children’s photo to be taken, then please contact one of the staff on the day so that they can inform the resident Photographer.

Head here to see all info on the event and to book! https://book.events/popkids/2025-02-23/45153

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Sunday, 23rd February 2025
The Ferret | Preston
1pm - 3pm

Preston Scratch Band

Saturday 22nd February

The Ferret, Preston

Doors 12.30pm, session runs until 2.30pm

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Communal music-making! Bring an instrument or just bring yourself and we will all sing and play some songs together using provided lyrics and chords. No preparation is required but for this session we will be having a go at a selection of Christmas carols and Christmas pop songs.

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£6 per person, cash or card.

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Drinks available from the bar.

The Ferret, 55 Fylde Road, PR1 2XQ.

Doors 12.30pm, session runs until 2.30pm.

Contact session leader Jon on JonAveyard1@gmail.com.

www.PrestonMusicWorkshops.com

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A new home for Preston Scratch Band

The communal music-making session known as Preston Scratch Band will soon be meeting in its new home at The Ferret. 

The group gathers on occasional Saturdays to sing and play pop songs using provided music books. Led from the keyboard by Jon Aveyard of Preston Music Workshops, participants borrow hand percussion or bring along their ukuleles, guitars, violins and whatever other instruments they would like to play. Some of the participants instead sing along and can make use of the wireless microphones if they want to make sure they are heard.

The group first met in the UCLan Media Factory but for the past two years had been gathering in The Larder. Now that The Larder has closed its doors for the final time, the group is moving to The Ferret following a successful one-off visit as part of last year’s Lancashire Encounter festival.

“We are grateful to The Larder for hosting us these past few years but now we’re looking forward to the next stage in the life of the Preston Scratch Band,” says Jon. “The Ferret is undoubtedly one of Preston’s most important music venues and it’s a privilege to meet there to play.”

Unlike most groups that perform at The Ferret, there is no expectation of being at a professional standard. “There’s no audience at a Preston Scratch Band session. Everyone who attends takes part in every song even if they’re just quietly singing along or shaking a tambourine. It’s a gathering of people willing to throw themselves into singing and playing and accepting whatever is brought to the session by the other participants.”

Visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fmkVNPrwNcfor a short film by Chris Davis about the Preston Scratch Band.

“Ghana’s finest” – Jools Holland, Later with Jools Holland

The Ferret presents

K.O.G. (Kweku of Ghana)

with guests:

DESIGN REWIND

DURBRAIN (Wisdom Binbags)

Jazzin The Park DJs

North Fiyah Sound

& special guests TBA

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Friday 21st Feb

The Ferret, Preston

Doors 7pm

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Tickets on sale now: https://skiddle.com/e/40481020

“I view MUSIC as a major WEAPON in the BATTLEFIELD for PEACE of MIND in the world” – K.O.G

Kweku Sackey aka K.O.G (Kweku of Ghana) is a multi-dimensional creative force, combining exquisite writing skills with shamanistic live performance, fierce raps, perfectly on pitch singing across a massive vocal range and some absolutely wicked dance moves. Not to mention his skills as a percussionist, arranger, bandleader and art director. A true poet and storyteller, he uses a mix of English, Pidgin and Ga to paint sonic pictures that reach deep into the souls of everyone ready to listen.

“I love to make music that CONNECTS, REVIVES, EDUCATES and ENTERTAINS, drawing on the spiritual, physical, emotional and mental well being of us as individuals and our quest to maintain balance with the universe.”

Born in Accra, Ghana, to a nurse mother and marine engineer father who had studied in England, he grew up with a diverse range of international influences alongside Ghanaian styles: Tom Waits, Quincy Jones, Bob Marley, Sizzla, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Ebo Taylor, Gyedu Blay Ambolley, Atongo Simba, George Clinton, Pavarotti, Warsaw Village Band.

Resident for over 10 years in Sheffield, UK, music has taken him to perform on huge stages all over the world, from Glastonbury’s legendary West Holts stage to Fusion (Germany), Sauti Za Busara (Zanzibar), Kabardock (Reunion) and the Commonwealth Games (Gold Cost, Australia), winning the 2018 Young Commonwealth Performer and performing for Nelson Mandela’s family.

A prolific writer and collaborator, he needs a range of projects to showcase the different sides of his unique talent. He is the lead vocalist for afro-futurist project Onipa (Strut Records, Wormfood) and hi-life/hiphop/funk band K.O.G (Heavenly Sweetness), as well as collaborating extensively with Nubiyan Twist; his song ‘If I know’ off the Freedom Fables album (Strut) was performed live on Later with Jools Holland and A-playlisted on BBC6 Music.

Kweku is deeply aware of his heritage and of his role as an ambassador both through space and time, negotiating culturally both between African and Western influences and between the traditional and the modern: always open to new innovations and ideas while firmly rooted in a deep lineage. 

This openness has informed recent collaborations with a wide wide range of producers and writers, including Léon Phal, Jembaa Groove, Zed Bias, iZem, Afriquoi, Congo Natty, Scrimshire, Dark Sky, Dizraeli, Chiminyo, Umoja and many more in the pipeline. Third album on French label Heavenly Sweetness, produced by master French producer Guts (Alliance Ethnik) and longtime friend and collaborator Tom Excell (Nubiyan Twist, Onipa), will drop September 2024.

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DESIGN REWIND <<

Design Rewind is Billy Strahan & Jonathan Towers, a recording artist duo from the good ol' North West of England. With influences that include Hall & Oates, Steely Dan & Toto, Design Rewind have been described as a “modern throwback” drawing from a cherished era in songwriting to create a fresh sound.

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with guest DJs from Jazzin The Park Productions & North Fiyah Soundsystem bringing the vibes, with a spiritual mix of Afrobeat, Hi-Life, Jazz, Soul, Hip Hop, House, Boogie, Disco, Jazz-Funk, Broken Beat, Electronica & more.

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The Ferret presents

K.O.G. (Kweku of Ghana)

with guests:

DESIGN REWIND

DURBRAIN (Wisdom Binbags)

Jazzin The Park DJs

North Fiyah Sound

& special guests TBA

Friday 21st Feb

The Ferret, Preston

Doors 7pm

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Tickets on sale now: https://skiddle.com/e/40481020

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All ages welcome (under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult).
Accessible ground floor venue & facilities.

Presented by IndigoBravo Promotions & The Ferret:

ALICIA F! (France)

+ ENUMA ELISH

Thursday 20th Feb

Doors 7pm

FREE ENTRY

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ALICIA F!

A native of Lorraine (North East France), Alicia Fiorucci started her artistic journey very early with the violin and classical dance. At 12, she has a revelation with Aerosmith, it's a cataclysm that plunges her into rock. Soon, she's taking electric guitar lessons at the Villerupt School of Music.

At 19, she meets the Kingstone, a rock group with whom she first stepped on the boards as a lead singer. Between 20 and 27 years old, she is a radio host on Radio Aria Longwy and X-move in Mont-Saint-Martin, then takes singing lessons for 2 years at the Blues School of Differdange in Luxembourg. 2017 marks a turning point in her life when she meets Tony Marlow (ex- Rockin' Rebels, Betty & The Bops) at Marc Zermati (Open Market, Skydog Records) in Paris. Tony then invites her to participate in a Chuck Berry Tribute that he organizes in Balajo (Paris), so she begins to sing with him and participate in his concerts before founding her own project, ALICIA F! with Tony on guitar in September 2019.

In May 2020 a first single "My No-Generation" is released, which is now sold out. In November 2021, the debut album "Welcome to my F World" features 11 tracks and 1 cover "Cherry Bomb" by the Runaways and receives a very good media reception (Rock & Folk, Best, Vinyl & Audio and many more.)

…Second album coming in 2025!

ENUMA ELISH

Esoteric Genre-hopping Psychedelic Progressive Blues Rock from Wigan, and stand out band in Last Band Standing, our semi-regular battle of the bands!

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Presented by IndigoBravo Promotions & The Ferret:

ALICIA F! (France)

+ ENUMA ELISH

Thursday 20th Feb

Doors 7pm

FREE ENTRY

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Ages 14+ (under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult)

Accessible ground floor venue & facilities.

Dog-friendly venue.

“Make The Ferret Mad Again” -  Stand Up Comedy in the Heart of Preston! 🤣🎤

Make the Ferret Mad Again is BACK once again at #TheFerret bringing stand-up comedy to the heart of Preston with a lineup to blow your little socks off 🤣🎤 This month we have another amazing line-up that looks something like this!

Fil Milton (MC)

Stephen Catling

Roland Gent

Tim Biglowe

Jamie Sillifant

James Murray

Rheanon Lee

Zoe Cussen

Bella Cagnoli

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MTFMA: A monthly comedy night for Preston, and we’ve got the privilege of hosting the laughs at our gaff.

Curated by Fil Milton and featuring guest hosts each month, Make The Ferret Mad Again will land at The Ferret every 3rd Tuesday of each month.

These hilarious nights are FREE ENTRY and the laughs will kick off from 7:30pm (doors at 7pm).
Come and enjoy some Ferret funnies, and Make The Ferret Mad Again!

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Tuesday 18th Feb 2025
Free entry
7pm Doors / 7:30pm Showtime
Every 3rd Tuesday of the month

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#standupcomedy #comedynight #comedygigs #northwestcomedy #prestoncomedy #northwest #theferret #preston #whatsoninpreston #whatsoninlancashire #grassrootsvenue #gigvenue #livemusicnearme #gigsnearme

The Ferret presents:

ALBERTA CROSS

The Thief & The Heartbreaker - Solo Tour Pt.2

With support from Seamus Mcloughlin

The Ferret, Preston
Monday 17th Feb 2025
Doors 7pm
Tickets on sale now:

Alberta Cross were formed by Swedish-born lead singer and guitarist Petter Ericson Stakee and his London pal Terry Wolfers in the mid-00s. Their anthemic Americana-tinged songs possess a vulnerability and earthiness, and it soon showed in how hugely their debut record ‘The Thief & The Heartbreaker’ began to connect.

What followed was success on both sides of the Atlantic, and high-profile jaunts with Mumford & Sons, Portugal. The Man, Neil Young, Them Crooked Vultures (Dave Grohl, Josh Homme and John Paul Jones) and Rag N’ Bone Man.

2024 will see a reworked re-release of this album which will feature of wealth of musical collobarations such as Katie Melua, Jack Savoretti and Band of Skulls. Re-recorded in Frome, Somerset, at Ethan John and Dom Monks (Big Thief) Bert Jansch studio, the forthcoming release was self-produced by Alberta Cross vocalist Petter Ericson Stakee, and mastered at the hallowed Abbey Road Studios.

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with special guest:
Seamus Mcloughlin

Seamus has cemented himself into local folklore with his excellent guitar play, immense vocal range and genuine on-stage charm. Live highlights include playing a set at SXSW festival in Texas and over the years he has gigged long and hard across the UK and USA.

The Ferret presents:

ALBERTA CROSS (solo)
The Thief & The Heartbreaker Tour Pt.2

with special guest:
Seamus Mcloughlin

The Ferret, Preston
Monday 17th Feb 2025
Doors 7pm
Tickets: skiddle.com/e/40418856

All ages welcome (under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult).
Accessible ground floor venue & facilities.
Dog-friendly venue.

An unmissable lycanthropic garage rock spectacular at The Ferret!

The Primevals James King and the Lonewolves, Bhajan Bhoy

plus Walter Mitty's Head and Palace Thieves

The Ferret, Preston

Saturday 15th February, 2025

Doors 6PM

Tickets & more info: skiddle.com/e/40548515

The Primevals: Stewart Lee has commissioned Glasgow's garage punk veterans to write a suitably haunting song for his new stand-up show 'Stewart Lee Vs The Man Wulf', which is currently on a long U.K tour. The band formed in 1983. Influenced by the MC5, The Stooges, Captain Beefheart, Pharoah Sanders, The Gun Club, The Cramps etc etc , and 1960s American garage rock, they continue to improve with age, like a fine single malt, and remain a resiliently brilliant live act.

The single features the A side "I'm The Man-Wulf" with an edited long version on the flip. The Primevals have always been a lot more than a bang it out garage rock band. Sure, they hit hard but behind the noise (of which there is a lot) is a fine and dare we say it cultured understanding of all the other great love sounds-of funk, soul, free jazz and a plain goddam groove!!

https://primevals.bandcamp.com/

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James King and the Lonewolves: Well known by those who know in Scotland, but criminally undiscovered almost everywhere else, James King and the Lonewolves combine classic Blues and Velvets tropes with a steely Television/Pere Ubu 70s proto punk vibe.

After the band had created a stir in early 80s Glasgow, Postcard supremo Alan Horne called upon The Lonewolves for his major label funded Swamplands imprint in the mid 80s. But due to a mix of bad luck and bad decisions the band did not get any further than one more flawless single.

They remained an enigma for the next 30 years until their debut LP 'Lost Songs of the Confederacy' finally landed in 2014. A second album 'The Mortality Arcade' appeared last year and the Lonewolves are currently firing on all cylinders. Do not miss this super rare opportunity to catch them south of the border.

https://www.facebook.com/JamesKingLonewolves

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Bhajan Bhoy: Ajay Saggar, who local and international gig goers will know from a string of previous successes in outfits such as Dandelion Adventure, Donkey, The Bent Moustache, King Champion Sounds and The Common Cold.

Now flying solo but with a massive box of effects pedals, Ajay creates psychedelic kosmiche raga electronic soundscapes. His recent LPs have been bucolic and blissed out, but live he is just as likely to stun you with improvised guitar heaviness.

https://bhajanbhoy.bandcamp.com/

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Walter Mitty's Head: Another legendary outfit who were minted in the 1980s, Walter Mitty's Head rarely emerge from their East Lancashire garage, other than to accept the plaudits from their regular spot at the annual Colne Rhythm and Blues Festival. But when they do venture out, their fearsome frantic, full-sounding psychobilly with a punk/blues edge always makes new converts.

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Palace Thieves: Post-punkers from Huddersfield and Leeds just about to unleash their debut album 'This is a True Story'

https://palacethieves.bandcamp.com/

Lancashire legends Fenny and Lez will be manning the Ferret DJ booth and spinning 60's r'n'b in between the acts.

Advance tickets only £10, more on the door!

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Saturday, 15th February

The Ferret, Preston

Doors 6PM

TICKETS: skiddle.com/e/40548515

Ages 14+ (under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult)

Accessible ground floor venue & facilities.

Dog-friendly venue.

Head down to The Ferret this Valentines Day for Cupid's Rave 4 All, brought to you by none other than Glitchgirl who will be headlining the multi genre event with support from DJs, local and from afar 👀

Expect Techno, 4x4, Garage, Drum and Bass, Jungle, Hardcore + More 🎶

Suggested donation of £3 which will go to mental health charity Mind 🩵

DJs on the night:

Glitchgirl

Paul Bradley

Spliffy B

Tyramyx

RAZE

Subskrybr

STU.0

7PM - LATE ⏰️

NOT TO BE MISSED! 🔥

If you can't make it but still want to make a donation, pop over to the JustGiving page 👇

https://www.justgiving.com/page/cupidsrave4all?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL

“Articulate, edgy, blistering and self-assured” – BBC Introducing

Rook and the Ravens, Ben & The Believers & The Remingtones (france)

Thursday, 13th February 2025

The Ferret, Preston

Tickets £4 - More on the door!

ROOK & THE RAVENS - Rook & The Ravens have toured far and wide, from Dublin in Ireland to Dublin in California, from Nashville Tennessee to Saltburn-by-the-Sea. Doing so they've kept a loyal fan base and remained proudly independent. "Their three-part harmonies are on par with Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. Newer songs rival Bends-era Radiohead and rock harder than early Queen. What other band can do all that and still sound at least as contemporary as Alt-J and Fleet Foxes?"

Corralled around the three-part harmony triumvirate of brothers Joe (guitar) and James Fay (lead guitar) with Tom Cartledge (keys, guitars), the quintet is completed by rhythm section David Brodie (bass guitar, keys, harmonica) and John Bernard Major (drums, percussion, keys).

For fans of melodic, hook-laden & Americana-laced indie rock, the band mould these sonic touchstones into a sound definably their own.

“Articulate, edgy, blistering and self-assured” – BBC Introducing

BEN & THE BELIEVERS - Led by singer-songwriter Ben Titley, Ben & The Believers craft introspective, heartfelt songs that resonate with listeners.

Their sound, a blend of indie rock with a personal edge, has made them a standout act in the live scene. Whether playing intimate shows or festival stages, Ben & The Believers always bring an emotional connection and a raw energy that captivates. Having steadily built a loyal following through their original sound and energetic performances, Ben & The Believers are poised to deliver an unforgettable live experience.

“A standout tuneful performance showcasing their original sound and rock ‘n’ roll energy” – Local Music Review

THE REMINGTONES (France) - The Remingtones est un groupe de rock de Rennes. A Ferret debut for this psychedelic rock band from Rennes, France.

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Thursday, 13th February 2025

The Ferret, Preston

Tickets £4 - More on the door!

skiddle.com/e/40576897

Join Liverpool's art-house witch and drag shapeshifter Pretentious Dross for an unforgettable evening of dark and decadent cabaret-theatre.

Enjoy The Show Presents:

An Evening with Dross

Tickets:https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Preston/The-Ferret/An-Evening-with-Dross-cabaret-theatre/40509841/

Weds, Feb 12, 2025
The Ferret, Preston

8PM

Tickets £6 from Skiddle

In a world divided, what might happen when we allow ourselves to dream? This is the question at the heart of Dross' first one-queen theatrical show. 

Having cut her teeth on the cabaret circuit across the UK, developing a unique performance style that blends spectacle with deep vulnerability, Dross brings her unique show to The ferret, Preston.

What are the stories that we choose to tell to and about ourselves? How do the ghosts of the past shape our future? And how can we mould the world around us? An Evening with Dross charts a course across a constellation of contradictions - weaving a thread that is equal parts biography and fantasy. 

An Evening with Dross is a kaleidoscopic, multimedia patchwork of a life.  

“An intelligent and thoughtful reflection on LGBTQ+ identity and community. This is Queer Church!” ★★★★★ Audience review, Shakespeare North Playhouse

“Beautiful, smart and hilarious in waves” Audience review, QUARRY Liverpool. 

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Written and performed by Pretentious Dross.

Dramaturgy: Alice Holland.

With animation from Laura Spark and music from Vicemöth. 

An Evening with Dross was developed with the kind support of FACT, Bidston Artistic Research Centre and Homotopia QueerCore.

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Tickets: https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Preston/The-Ferret/An-Evening-with-Dross-cabaret-theatre/40509841/