Sat, 29 March 2025, 2:00pm - 9:30pm
Pittville Pump Room East Approach Drive, Cheltenham GL52 3JE
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Celebrate Cheltenham’s most famous son, composer Gustav Holst, at a day of fun activities and music at Pittville Pump Room this spring.
Be inspired by Holst’s artistic legacy, from his most famous work, The Planets, to more unusual pieces such as his Indian-inspired operas, through a range of activities and music. From all ages art and craft workshops to string orchestra and dance – there is something for everyone to enjoy throughout this special day.
The event is part of Holst’s 150th birthday celebrations and will also mark the 50th anniversary this year of the establishment of the Holst Victorian House. Set up by Holst’s daughter Imogen, this Pittville terraced home brings Holst’s fascinating story to life through period rooms and belongings, such as the composer’s piano.
The Holst 150 Birthday Party is FREE from 2 pm – 5.30 pm and then tickets are only £5.00 (under 18s free) for the seated evening concert from 7.30-9.30 pm (doors open from 7 pm). All proceeds will go towards ensuring the future of the Holst Victorian House for the next 50 years and beyond!
The activities throughout the day are drop-in, so there is no need to book – just turn up. To purchase a ticket for the evening event please click the link below. Tickets will also be available on the door.
No tickets will be issued for the concert on Saturday evening. Instead, simply bring your receipt with you.
View the event’s brochure, here.
Programme for the Day
ART ZONE: 2 pm-5.30 pm
Make, Create – all ages arts and crafts. Free – just drop in!
Lyrebird Sculptures
Create your own beautiful Lyrebird sculpture to decorate both indoor and outdoor spaces with artist Imogen Harvey-Lewis. Inspired by the stunning Australian lyrebird, which Holst’s friend Louise Dyer used as a motif for her company, The Lyrebird Press.
Paper Planets
Using paper and card, come and make a planet puppet, solar system garland or 3D decoration with local crafter and creative workshop host Helen Nightingale.
Giant Holst Doodle
Something magical happens when we draw together. Join in no matter your age, and let’s see where our imagination takes us as we all create a collaborative portrait capturing Holst and his music. With artist Gemma Hastilow.
Letterpress Poster
Ink up your own Holst 150 poster to take away with you with Philippa Thomas from Gloucestershire Printmaking Co-operative. A super souvenir of the day!
MARS STAGE
Day Concert – Free: 2 pm – 5.30pm
A free concert of diverse performances beginning with Cheltenham Silver Band. Also featuring Nethra Dance Academy, Miserden Morris, Cheltenham Improvisers Orchestra and many more.
Evening Concert – £5 (under 18’s free)
19:30 Gary Branch – solo piano
19.55 Montpellier Brass Ensemble
20:20 Interval
20:40 Charlton Kings Choral Society
21:00 Cheltenham Philharmonic Orchestra – Strings
21:20 Cheltenham Philharmonic, Strings and Charlton Kings Choral Society
21:30 FINISH
No tickets will be issued for this concert. Instead, simply bring your receipt with you.
Advance booking for this event is not available.
You will be able to purchase tickets at the door if spaces are available.
(64 spaces are still available now.)