FOOT STOMPING: Free tickets are on offer for the Shelanagig show in an effort to dispel myths about The Witham’s reputation as a high brow arts venue
FOOT STOMPING: Free tickets are on offer for the Shelanagig show in an effort to dispel myths about The Witham’s reputation as a high brow arts venue

STAFF at The Witham are hoping a gig tonight (Friday, August 31) will dispel a few myths about the complex.

Five-piece folk group Shelanagig will take to the stage for what is being billed as a high energy foot stomping show.

The event is already being marketed as a “pay what you like” gig rather than a formally ticketed show.

However, in a further effort to attract a new audience to the complex, 75 tickets are being offered either free or for a token donation.

When trustees launched the £30k in 30 days appeal to save The Witham from closure, they said they were keenly aware that a good number of people believed the complex was “too arty”.

Interim director Shelagh Avery urged people to give it a go at the Shelanagig show.

“We are trying to change the perception of people who think The Witham does only one kind of thing,” she said.

“We want to encourage people who think The Witham is high brow to come along and see a high energy performance.

“Shelanagig is suitable for families with children over ten as well as younger people. It will be a great Friday night out. It’s also about coming along and meeting the staff, finding outwho we are and what we do,” said Ms Avery.

Anyone interested in taking up the offer of free tickets can simply call into The Witham or phone 01833 631107.

It will be a standing gig and the bar will be open throughout the show.

It starts at 8pm.