Manningtree Arts

A truly, extraordinary one for the books.

joins us at Manningtree Arts for a one night only performance for an extremely limited audience, Sunday 24 March.

Experience the captivating talent of Gwenifer Raymond, a guitarist whose musical odyssey began amidst the raw energy of punk and grunge at just eight years old. From the Welsh valleys to international acclaim, Gwenifer’s evolution from punk outfits to the soulful depths of pre-war blues and Appalachian folk is nothing short of mesmerising.

Signed to the prestigious American label ‘Tompkins Square’ in 2018, her debut album ‘You Never Were Much of a Dancer’ garnered widespread critical praise. Now, with her sophomore release ‘Strange Lights Over Garth Mountain,’ Gwenifer delves deeper into her Welsh roots, weaving a tapestry of haunting melodies inspired by the mystical landscapes of her homeland.

Embark on a musical pilgrimage with Gwenifer Raymond as she channels the spirit of ‘Welsh Primitive’ guitar playing. Having mesmerized audiences across the UK and Europe, she stands as a beacon of innovation in the music scene.

Don’t miss the chance to witness her spellbinding performance live – it’s an experience not to be missed under any circumstances.

Tickets now live on our website ✨

✨ MA Writes ✨
Thursday 22 Feb • 7-9.30pm

Step into a world of literary inspiration in our little bookshop! Join us for an enchanting Writing Night, where local wordsmiths gather to immerse themselves in a serene and creative atmosphere. Picture yourself nestled in a cozy corner, surrounded by shelves of literary wonders, with the soft hum of fellow writers weaving through the air. Whether you’re penning the next bestseller or refining your craft, MA Writes provides the perfect backdrop for your creative journey.

Savour the camaraderie of kindred spirits, share ideas, and bask in the collective energy of creativity. As you delve into your work-in-progress, enjoy a glass of organic wine or locally brewed beer, adding a touch of inspiration to your evening. Let the ambiance of MA fuel your imagination, turning your Thursday night into a cherished haven for local literary talents.

Tickets are free. Limited spaces so book fast 💜

✨THURSDAY 15 FEB ✨

Immerse Yourself in a Sonic Tapestry: Radiohead’s Kid A Listening Party at Manningtree Arts.

Have the wonderful opportunity to listen to Kid A all the way through, an album that redefined the boundaries of alternative rock. Grab a beer, coffee or glass of delicious organic wine, and contemplate the profound effect of this seminal piece of work. We’ll be playing the who record on vinyl using the Sonos Era 300 sound system.

Step into a world where literature meets auditory brilliance. Join us for an unforgettable experience as we host a mesmerising listening party for Radiohead’s groundbreaking album, Kid A, set to be a journey into the ethereal realms of sound and storytelling.

We’ve limited places to 20, and tickets are completely free - book yours now online to secure your place.

This week we celebrate not only love for one another here at MA, but love for diversity, inclusivity, humanity, equality and ourselves 💗

All love is important, this week and always ❤

If you're looking for any last minute gifts do pop in and see us 🥰 We have a beautifully curated section of organic wines, bars of chocolate, carry cups and a wide selection of gorgeous books x

A fond farewell to 💜

Thank you for all your hard work Rudy! Although you were with us for just a short while, you left the biggest impression on us here at MA. We can safely say that all our wonderful customers have adored you and the beautiful coffee's you poured 👏

Thankyou for being you Rudy, have the best time on your travels to India x

✨ FEBRUARY BOOK CLUB PICK ✨

BIG SWISS
by Jen Beagin

MA Book Club is the perfect chance to dive into discussion about some of the most contemporary and diverse literature out today. It’s incredibly casual, a couple of hours once a month to chat, meet new people, have a glass of wine and read some great new books.

You can opt in, and opt out, each month - we will announce each month’s title the month before, and you can buy your spot when it comes up on the website. Each month is £15, which includes your copy of the book AND your first drink completely free on the night. You can buy your ticket on our website and then pick up your book in store.

If you would like you book copy delivered, please let us know by popping us an email at [email protected].

BIG SWISS
Jen Beagin

‘Made me laugh and think too much (the right amount?) about s*x and death and honesty.’ MONICA HEISEY

‘Utterly addictive. . . I laughed so hard it ached.’ GILLIAN ANDERSON

‘Juicy, salacious and compelling. Trauma shouldn’t be this fun.’ SARA PASCOE

Darkly comic and utterly unputdownable, Beagin’s freewheeling novel centres on the unconventional relationship between the quirky Greta and the enigmatic Big Swiss.

Greta liked knowing people’s secrets. That wasn’t a problem. Until she met Big Swiss. Big Swiss. That’s Greta’s nickname for her - she is tall, and she is from Switzerland. Well that’s how Greta imagines her; they haven’t actually met in person. Nor has Greta actually ever been to Switzerland.

What Greta doesn’t know is that she’s about to bump into Big Swiss in the local dog park. A new - and not entirely honest - relationship is going to be born.

A relationship that will transform both of their lives.

Happy Saturday, and happy February 💜

POETRY FOR PEACE
This Thursday 18th Jan, 7pm

A night to perform, listen and reflect. Poetry has historically been used as a tool for activism. In a very scary time, MA will welcome local poets to share work that inspires, calls for, champions, peace. 100% proceeds from tickets will be donated to the Save the Children Gaza Emergency Appeal.

Come join us to share in an evening of creative power and expression. Listen to some extraordinary talent from some of our best local and national writers and poets.

If you are interested in performing, please email [email protected] 💜

📸

Looks who’s back 👀

20 places… better book fast. Dinner amongst the books awaits 💜

Tickets on our website ✨

✨ January 2024 ✨

Book now via our website 💜

Starting the new year with some slightly different opening hours 💜

We are here for you this Christmas - offering a rest bite, a cuppa, a book or some company between Christmas and New Year. Have a wonderful festive period 💜

✨ Panettone Tasting ✨
Tue 12 December, 7-9pm

A perfect evening: wine, music, and 15 of the most delicious, premium Panettone’s on the market. A delicious evening in the run up to Christmas, to pick your presents, and learn more about this staple festive treat from the amazing at 💜

Book your tickets now via our website 🎄

✨✨ JANUARY BOOK CLUB PICK ✨✨

No December Book Club as it falls in the week of Christmas - but we have a beautiful, cosy story to start off the New Year. See you Jan 30th 💜

MA Book Club is the perfect chance to dive into discussion about some of the most contemporary and diverse literature out today. It’s incredibly casual, a couple of hours once a month to chat, meet new people, have a glass of wine and read some great new books.

You can opt in, and opt out, each month - we will announce each month’s title the month before, and you can buy your spot when it comes up on the website. Each month is £15, which includes your copy of the book AND your first drink completely free on the night. You can pop in and buy your book directly from the shop, or we can deliver.

If you would like you book copy delivered, please let us know by popping us an email at [email protected].

If you would like your book collected from the shop, you don’t need to do anything, your book will be available to pick up anytime from the following day.

THE WHALEBONE THEATRE
Joanna Quinn
This is the story of an old English manor house by the sea, with crumbling chimneys, draping ivy and a library full of dusty hardbacks. It’s the story of the three children who grow up there, and the adventures they create for themselves while the grown-ups entertain endless party guests. This is the story of a whale that washes up on a beach, whose bones are claimed by a twelve-year-old girl with big ambitions and an even bigger imagination. An unwanted orphan who grows into an unmarriageable young woman, fiercely determined to do things differently. But as the children grow to adulthood, another story has been unfolding in the wings. And when the war finally takes centre stage, they find themselves cast, unrehearsed, into roles they never expected to play. They raised themselves on stories. Now it’s time for them to write their own...

‘Tis the season 💜🎄

Check out our December events, and sign up to our mailing list, at Manningtree arts.com ✨

🎄Manningtree Christmas Market 🎄
✨ Christmas Storytelling ✨

TOMORROW - join us as we celebrate the start of the festive season here in Manningtree with the Christmas Market taking over town centre between 3-9!

We are running three magical storytelling sessions with Grethe Mangala Jensen here at Manningtree Arts (times below) - drop by to take part, suitable for all ages 💜

3.15-3.45
4.45-5.15
6.30-7

See you then 💜

Slightly reduced hours this weekend folks, so sorry for the inconvenience 💜

Friday | 8.30 - 4pm (closed early for sold out Supper Club)
Saturday | 10 - 6pm
Sunday | Closed

💜💜

Calling all ☕️ lovers 💜

is our local coffee prodigy, and we are proud to use his delicious roasted coffee for our menu. Join us on 14 December for a 2 hour coffee tasting experience, the perfect gift for the coffee lover in your life. You’ll even have the chance to perfect your own blend, to bag up and gift your loved ones for Christmas (or take home yourself).

Tickets live on our website now - link in bio ✌️

Game night has begun ✨💜

✨✨ NOVEMBER BOOK CLUB PICK ✨✨
The Glutton by A.K. Blakemore

MA Book Club is the perfect chance to dive into discussion about some of the most contemporary and diverse literature out today. It’s incredibly casual, a couple of hours once a month to chat, meet new people, have a glass of wine and read some great new books.

You can opt in, and opt out, each month - we will announce each month’s title the month before, and you can buy your spot when it comes up on the website. Each month is £15, which includes your copy of the book AND your first drink completely free on the night. You can pop in and collect your book directly from the shop, or we can deliver.

THE GLUTTON
By A.K. Blakemore

Sister Perpetue is not to move. She is not to fall asleep. She is to sit, keeping guard over the patient’s room.

She has heard the stories of his hunger, which defy belief: that he has eaten all manner of creatures and objects. A child even, if the rumours are to be believed.

But it is hard to believe that this slender, frail man is the one they once called The Great Tarare, The Glutton of Lyon. Before, he was just Tarare. Well-meaning and hopelessly curious, born into a world of brawling and sweet cider, to a bereaved mother and a life of slender means.

The 18th Century is drawing to a close, unrest grips the heart of France and life in the village is soon shaken. When a sudden act of violence sees Tarare cast out and left for dead, his ferocious appetite is ignited, and it’s not long before his extraordinary abilities to eat make him a marvel throughout the land.

Following Tarare as he travels from the South of France to Paris and beyond, through the heart of the Revolution, The Glutton is an electric, heart-stopping journey into a world of tumult, upheaval and depravity, wherein the hunger of one peasant is matched only by the insatiable demands of the people of France.

Events 👏 events 👏 events 👏

Book now via our website ❤️

Join us for an evening of decadent, seasonal, local food here at MA. Six courses reflecting the best autumnal flavours: warming, earthy and soulful.

Fri 24 November, 7pm
Tickets available on our website
Only 20 spaces, so book fast to avoid disappointment

Hi friends! We have a wonderful new counter being installed(!) plus a few things to touch up on in the shop so I’m gonna take a week to get it all sorted. Have a wonderful 6 days and we shall see you on the Sat Oct 14th ✨

If you need to pick up your Book Club book or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to send me an email [email protected] 💜

OCTOBER BOOK CLUB PICK 👻💜
The Mysterious Case of the Alperton Angels by Janice Hallett ✨

MA Book Club is the perfect chance to dive into discussion about some of the most contemporary and diverse literature out today. It's incredibly casual, a couple of hours once a month to chat, meet new people, have a glass of wine and read some great new books.

You can opt in, and opt out, each month - we will announce each month's title the month before, and you can buy your spot when it comes up on the website. Each month is £15, which includes your copy of the book AND your first drink completely free on the night. You can pop in and collect your book directly from the shop, or we can deliver.

THE MYSTERIOUS CASE OF THE ALPERTON ANGELS
Janice Hallett

An incredibly well-written, fast paced and deliciously devouring mystery that allows us a bit of relief following a few rather intense novels. It is the perfect Autumnal read... and as book club falls on halloween we will celebrating with some spooky treats - but obvz, most importantly, lots of wine.

ABOUT THE BOOK

True-crime author Amanda Bailey knows all about the notorious Alperton Angels cult. There have been dozens of books and films about the Angels, ever since the night nearly two decades ago, when they attempted to sacrifice a baby they believed to be the Antichrist.

With all the cultists now dead - apart from their charismatic leader - it seems like there's nothing new to say about the Angels... until now. The Alperton baby has turned eighteen and can finally be interviewed, and if Amanda can track them down, it will be the scoop of the year.

But rival author Oliver Menzies is just as smart, better connected, and is also on the baby's trail. As Amanda and Oliver are forced to collaborate, they realise that what everyone thinks they know about the Angels is wrong. The truth is something much darker and stranger.

And the devilish story of the Alperton Angels is far from over...

When I returned to Ess*x nearly two years ago - I was lucky enough to spend time working with , an experience that led me to fall in love with making coffee again, and ultimately dream big dreams whilst learning from the maestro himself, the wonderful Ed.

It is a wonderful, touching and full circle moment for me to welcome to MA this weekend for an exclusive three day take over. It’s gonna be a party. Come down and taste some of the absolute best coffee around 💜☕️