Visit to the George Marshall Medical Museum
The Mayor will be visiting the George Marshall Medical Museum to see the private view Asylum display and talks.
MAYOR’S WEEK 20 – 26 JULY 2025
WE ARE lucky in Worcester to have a really rich selection of theatres and venues which offer a wide range of different entertainment.
This summer, Worcester’s cultural life is bursting with energy, talent, and variety – and I’ve had the absolute pleasure as Mayor to experience some of the very best it has to offer.
Last weekend, I visited the incredibly talented cast of WODYS (Worcester Operatic & Dramatic Society Youth Section) during rehearsals for their upcoming production of Footloose.
Watching their performance of numbers like Let’s Hear It For The Boy and Can You Find It In Your Heart was a real treat – it is a slick, high-energy show, and the cast are giving it everything.
Afterwards, they took to Crowngate for a surprise flash mob, stopping Saturday shoppers in their tracks and giving the city centre a burst of joy.
The show runs at the Swan Theatre from Tuesday July 29 to Monday August 3, with a matinee on the final day.
Tickets are selling fast and available at worcestertheatres.co.uk/swan-theatre or by calling 01905 611427. It promises to be a fantastic night out and a wonderful display of young local talent.
This year also marks the 60th anniversary of the Swan Theatre and I attended a performance which celebrated its wonderful legacy.
For six decades, it has stood at the heart of Worcester’s cultural scene, providing a space for storytelling, creativity, and community connection.
Long may that continue. I was also lucky enough to attend an open-air production of Sense and Sensibility at the Commandery.
It was a glorious summer evening, and the period costumes and witty dialogue were perfectly matched by the historic surroundings. There is something truly special about live theatre under the open sky.
Finally, I had the honour of attending a stunning concert at Huntingdon Hall featuring the internationally renowned Polish Violin Duo, Marta Gidaszewska and Robert Łaguniak, accompanied by pianist Artur Haftman.
It was a beautiful evening of music that also celebrated the long-standing friendship between Worcester and Poland.
From youth theatre to classical music, from outdoor drama to historic milestones, Worcester is alive with culture this summer.
These events don’t just entertain – they connect us, inspire us, and make our city a more vibrant place to live. I hope to see you at one soon.
Worcester Operatic & Dramatic Society’s Youth Section performance of Footloose
The Mayor and Mayoress will be attending Wody’s performance of Footloose at The Swan Theatre, Worcester
MAYOR’S WEEK 13 – 19 JULY
THIS week has been one of great contrasts as the Mayor of Worcester.
I have attended events remembering episodes of great sorrow and tragedy but also attended celebrations of joy and community.
I was honoured to speak at this year’s Srebrenica Memorial Day at the Guildhall. We came together to remember the 8,372 Bosnian Muslim men and boys murdered in July 1995 simply because of who they were.
The genocide in Srebrenica was the darkest chapter of the Bosnian War – a tragedy rooted in hatred, division, and silence.
This year’s theme, “Remember Yesterday, Act Today”, reminds us that remembrance must be active. We must challenge prejudice, educate future generations, and build a city where nobody is dehumanised or left behind.
Worcester is proud of its diversity — let’s protect it with courage and compassion. Never again must truly mean never again.
It was a real joy to open Worcester Carnival 2025 and see our city come alive with colour, music, and community spirit on a beautiful sunny day on Pitchcroft and throughout the city.
This year’s theme, “Myths and Legends,” celebrated the stories that shape Worcester’s identity – from ancient folklore to our rich cultural heritage.
The carnival parade was the highlight of the day – a vibrant, joyful procession of floats, dancers, musicians, and community groups filling the streets with energy, creativity, and pride.
A special congratulations to our Carnival King, Luke Robinson, and Carnival Queen, Beth Smith – two inspiring young people who truly represent the heart of our community through their volunteering and dedication. Worcester Carnival shows what we can achieve when we come together – proud, united, and full of joy.
I was also privileged to visit ASPIE, a remarkable support group for adults with Asperger’s and autism based at Vesta Tilley House in Worcester.
Founded in 2011 by Sarah Micklewright, ASPIE offers a safe, welcoming space where members can connect, rebuild confidence, and feel truly accepted.
From art therapy and drama to quizzes, workshops, and even their own football team – the ASPIE Avengers – there is something for everyone, with no pressure to take part.
It was inspiring to meet such a warm, inclusive community and see the positive impact this group has across the West Midlands. Worcester should be proud to have such a unique and compassionate organisation in our city.