The Warehouse Theatre
Ilminster
Glorious!
2nd to 5th September
'Glorious!' by Peter Quilter is the true story of American socialite Florence Foster Jenkins, dubbed "the worst singer in the world," known for her flamboyant costumes, enigmatic performances and decidedly off-key voice.
Set in 1940s New York, the performer who everyone wanted to see live was Florence Foster Jenkins. Known as "the first lady of the sliding scale," she warbled and screeched her way through the evening to an audience who mostly fell about with laughter.
But this delusional and joyously happy woman paid little attention to her critics. Instead, she was surrounded by a circle of devoted friends who were almost as eccentric as she was.
Based upon a true story, the play follows Florence's journey as she prepares for her concerts, builds an unlikely friendship with her accompanist Cosme and defies her critics to follow her dreams. This is an hilarious and heartwarming comedy.
Ilminster Ukulele Club in Concert
Ilminster Ukulele Club Concert – Saturday 19th September at The Warehouse Theatre For one night only, Ilminster Ukulele Club presents an evening of foot-tapping, sing-along tunes, packed full of golden oldies, rock, modern pop and country music. If you have ever wondered what a song by George Ezra would sound like played on the ukulele – come and find out! All proceeds from this event will be donated to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and The Warehouse Theatre.
It's no wonder the instrument has become a favourite in schools. It is relatively easy to learn, encourages team work and above all is great fun. The club meets every Wednesday at 7pm in the hall at the rear of Sweet Surprise in Silver Street. New members are always welcome. If you don't play (yet), we provide tuition for complete beginners. If the idea appeals to you, come along and have a go.
J.Sivell Breeze Dance Company are thrilled to be returning to the Warehouse Theatre to present our latest show.
This promises to be an exciting evening of song and dance from our talented performers of all ages. With performances in Ballet, Tap, Musical Theatre and Freestyle we invite you to join us to 'Let's Go Round Again!'
The Welkin
28th to 31st October
Set in rural England in 1759, The Welkin places us in a small, crowded room where twelve ordinary women are asked to make an extraordinary decision.
Sally Poppy, a young woman convicted of murder, claims she is
pregnant — an assertion that, if true, would spare her from execution under the law of the time. A jury of matrons is hastily assembled to determine whether she is telling the truth.
Blending dark humour with moments of intense drama, The Welkin shines a light on a forgotten corner of history, revealing how limited knowledge of women's bodies and entrenched social hierarchies could determine life or death.
At its heart, The Welkin asks a timeless question: Who has the authority to decide the truth — and at what cost?
Age recommendation 16+
MC – Ian Murphy - Ian is a fresh face in the comedy world, bringing a unique mix of 80's cynicism and contemporary confusion to the stage. Originally from Liverpool, Ian's transition from a failed football career and a loss of £1M live on TV to stand-up comedy has provided him with a wealth of material that resonates with audiences.
Now living away from his hometown for over half his life, Ian humorously reflects on his recovering "scouseness" and the cultural shifts he's witnessed.
Since starting his comedy career, Ian has quickly gained recognition, winning the title of Devon Comedian of the Year 2023. His performances at the Altitude Comedy Festival 2024 and the renowned Hot Water Comedy Club, as well as providing tour support for Emmanuel Sonubi, showcase his rapid rise in the comedy circuit.
Ian's humor is inspired by early childhood comedy heroes such as Morecambe and Wise, Tommy Cooper, and Billy Connolly, blending nostalgic wit with his unique perspective on life.
Opening Act – Jacob Nussey - Jacob Nussey unassumingly draws in audiences with his deadpan style, sharp jokes, and ill-fated anecdotes with clever punchlines.
Jacob quickly established himself on the comedy circuit, performing tour support for Jason Manford, Russell Kane, and Jack Carroll.
He was named by Chortle as one to watch in 2023. After winning Bury Met Comedian of the Year, and West Didsbury Comedy Festival New Act of the Year. As well as being a finalist Leicester Square Theatre Comedian of the year.
Jacob was also featured in The Times, The Telegraph, and Dave joke of the fringe lists 2025. And previously reached the semi-finals of British Comedian of the Year and So You Think You’re Funny in 2021.
He’s seriously funny and well worth seeing in person!
Middle Act – Jo Frank - Funny Women Semi-finalist 2017 Stand Up For Cider Finalist 2017 & 2018 'A delicious treat' Edinburgh Evening News. 'Dynamite performance, had the crowd in stitches' Genius Events & PR.
Headline Act – Bennett Arron - Ian is a fresh face in the comedy world, bringing a unique mix of 80's cynicism and contemporary confusion to the stage. Originally from Liverpool, Ian's transition from a failed football career and a loss of £1M live on TV to stand-up comedy has provided him with a wealth of material that resonates with audiences.
Now living away from his hometown for over half his life, Ian humorously reflects on his recovering "scouseness" and the cultural shifts he's witnessed.
Since starting his comedy career, Ian has quickly gained recognition, winning the title of Devon Comedian of the Year 2023. His performances at the Altitude Comedy Festival 2024 and the renowned Hot Water Comedy Club, as well as providing tour support for Emmanuel Sonubi, showcase his rapid rise in the comedy circuit.
Ian's humor is inspired by early childhood comedy heroes such as Morecambe and Wise, Tommy Cooper, and Billy Connolly, blending nostalgic wit with his unique perspective on life.
