Musical duo brings harp-weaving tale to historic Ipswich venue tomorrow

The Joysmith presents The Harp Maker's Tale at the 17th-century Unitarian Meeting House tomorrow evening, combining storytelling with harp and violin music in an all-ages performance that promises to remind audiences "anything really is possible."

A close-up of a harp

Why it matters: The performance offers Ipswich residents a chance to experience live storytelling and music in one of the town's most atmospheric historic venues, with the duo aiming to rekindle the childhood wonder when any dream felt achievable.

The details: Joy Smith on harps and percussion teams up with Jorge Jimenez on violin and medieval vielle to create what they describe as "a unique and powerful blend of words and music – a tale of life, love, and renewal."

The performance takes place at 19:00 at the Unitarian Meeting House. Tickets are available on the door, with those wanting to reserve a place able to contact Tessa Jordan at tessa@tessajordan.co.uk.

What they're saying: BBC Radio 3's Sean Rafferty has praised the duo's artistry as "so improvisatory and spontaneous," and "very, very exciting."

The organisers say the performance is "uplifting and heartfelt" and designed to "reach audiences of all ages, encouraging them to leave their cares at the door and be transported."

The bigger picture: The Harp Maker's Tale promises to recreate "the joy of being read stories as a child – when anything felt possible, whether becoming a train driver, a ballet dancer, or even a flying horse."

The bottom line: With music and story woven seamlessly together, the evening combines shimmering harp strings, dancing violin lines, and evocative tales in the atmospheric setting of the historic meeting house.

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