IRISH rhythm and blues tykes The Strypes are joining Squeeze’s Chris Difford and 1960s legend Arthur Brown for a benefit festival to raise cash for those affected by a devastating fire.

Artists and musicians lost work and valuable equipment when the Phoenix Theatre and Studios burned down on Saturday, March 29.

Reports at the time blamed a flue from a wood-burning stove catching light.

Designer Cressida Bell has worked with Harvey’s Brewery and supporters of the Phoenix to set up a fundraising benefit to help buy new materials and equipment for the artists affected.

“I felt that it was really important to do something after the terrible fire,” says Bell.

“This festival was my way of focusing public attention on these artists, bringing people together and raising some much needed money to try and help the artists who have lost so much.”

Playing at 3.30pm are blues/rock band Scott Free who were setting up for a gig when the fire was discovered. They lost all their equipment in the blaze.

Duncan Disorderly and The Scallywags will open the festival at 2pm, with music by the Ouse Valley Duo, Blank Frank, Letitia Kays and Elizabeth Stock with Timo Adesina, Secret Company, The Contenders, Kate Pollak, Viva Voce and Instil.

There will also be comedy from James “Biddie” Biddlecombe, Ana Esmith From Espain and George Keeler, and Lewes Rep Theatre performing the world premiere of the play Richard Deferred, having lost their home in the blaze. The evening sessions will see Arthur Brown performing at 8pm, Neary, Dyball And Kerr at 8.45pm, Chris Difford at 9.15pm and The Strypes at 9.30pm.

The day will include food from Tower And Thompson, Ouse Valley Foods, Laportes, Countryside Catering and Victoria And Tali, and a prize raffle with donated prizes like a tour of the House Of Lords to meals for two, a Ruth Rendell signed novel, and tours of Sissinghurst Castle and Charleston.

 

From The Ashes Festival
Harveys Depot, Pinwell Lane, Lewes, Saturday, May 31, 2pm to 10pm, £18/£20,  www.phoenixfromtheashes.org