Evolver 150

The Return of the Native Thomas Hardy’s The Return of the Native is a profound exploration of human desires and the indomitable forces that shape destiny. Set against the haunting backdrop of Egdon Heath, the novel tells the story of Eustacia Vye, a young woman whose passionate longing for escape and fulfilment drives the narrative inevitably towards its tragic conclusion. 2 and 3 July: The Corn Exchange, High East Street, DORCHESTER, DT1 1HF. 7.30pm. £16 / £14. 01305 266926 / dorchesterarts.org.uk . Kinematos From the southernmost south, from Mar del Plata, Argentina, the Mano Amano Circus Company tours the world with its masterpiece of precision, vertigo and comedy. They do not fly, they know they never will, but they keep trying anyhow. 17 July: Village Green, COMBWICH, TA5 2QZ. 7pm. £5. takeart.org . 19 July: Blenheim Gardens, Blenheim Road, MINEHEAD, TA24 5PZ. 1pm. Free entry. takeart.org . FESTIVAL OF WESSEX 2026 • 53 Things I’ve Never Said Yeovil-based Project Dance has cemented its reputation as one of the UK’s most exciting and accessible dance companies. Their latest work is a deeply moving exploration of the secrets we carry and the words we leave unspoken. Blending an earnest new story by James Bamford and Grace Noelle, breathtaking choreography, and with powerful live music by Charles Harrison, Things I’ve Never Said promises a truly immersive theatrical experience for audiences of all ages. With Project Dance’s signature fusion of emotional storytelling and striking physicality, this show shines a light on the shared human experience - reminding us that everybody has a story. 27 and 28 August: Westlands Entertainment Venue, Westbourne Close, YEOVIL, BA20 2DD. 7.30pm. £19.50 / £17.50. 01935 422884 / projectdance.org.uk . 29 August: Redgrave Theatre, Percival Road, Clifton, BRISTOL, BS8 3LE. 7.30pm. £20.30 / £17.30. 01173 157800 / projectdance.org.uk . Shaftesbury Fringe Shaftesbury Fringe returns this summer to celebrate its landmark 10th anniversary, bringing an extraordinary programme featuring hundreds of performances to the historic hilltop town. For a community of just 8,000 people, the scale and ambition of the Fringe is remarkable - transforming Shaftesbury into a vibrant hub of creativity for one unforgettable weekend. Taking place from 17th to 19th July, the Fringe will once again showcase an eclectic mix of entertainment spanning a wide range of genres. Audiences can enjoy performances for children, diverse musical acts, comedy, poetry and spoken word, theatre, musicals, cabaret, and visual art - ensuring there is something for everyone. Events will take place across venues throughout the town, as well as in open-air spaces, creating a lively and inclusive atmosphere. A dedicated busking stage and an array of street performances will add to the festival’s unique charm, bringing creativity directly to the streets. As it marks a decade of creativity, community, and culture, Shaftesbury Fringe 2026 promises to be its biggest and most exciting edition yet. Start planning your weekend by downloading the app, picking up a programme or visiting the website to see all that Shaftesbury Fringe has to offer. 17 - 19 July: Various locations in SHAFTESBURY, Dorset. shaftesburyfringe.co.uk . GRACE LOVELASS: ‘BALLGOWNS & BIB SHORTS’ (Shaftesbury Arts Centre, 18 July)