The Rising Sun Arts Centre

Refugee Week Film Festival 2026

🗓️ Sunday 21 June
🕐 1pm - 4pm
🎟️ Free entry

Join us for a special afternoon of film, community, and conversation as we mark Refugee Week with a free screening event open to all.

We’ll be showing two powerful short films:

HAYAT (2019) – dir. Rendah Haj (14 mins)

An Eritrean migrant in Australia navigates isolation while striving to keep her children connected to their cultural roots as they build a new life.

MIGRANTS (2020) – dir. Hugo Caby, Antoine Dupriez, Aubin Kubiak, Lucas Lermytte, Zoé Devise (8 mins)

A moving animated story of displacement and adaptation as polar bears forced from their habitat must learn to coexist in unfamiliar territory.

Alongside the screenings, we’ll be showcasing the work of our refugee dressmaking group, a welcoming project open to all refugees and asylum seekers. Come and learn more about what they do and how to get involved.
Alcohol-free bar available Free snacks provided All welcome

A relaxed, welcoming space to reflect, connect, and celebrate resilience through film and creativity.

SOUNDCHECK TV 3

📅 Friday 19th June
🕗 8:00pm – 11:00pm
🎟️ Free entry(advance booking required)

Live music, live interviews, live filming… and you could be part of it!

Join us on Friday 19 June as Soundcheck TV returns to the Rising Sun Arts Centre for another night of incredible local music, hosted by Kia and featuring DOOPS and MY LIBERAL PONY.

The evening will feature: DOOPS live on stage Sofa chats with Kia MY LIBERAL PONY live on stage More artist interviews A special filmed performance before DOOPS round off the night with an extended set

Grab a beer, enjoy the music, be dazzled by Iridiphore visuals, and maybe even find yourself on camera as we create another episode of Soundcheck TV!

Spaces are limited due to filming equipment and venue capacity, so book your FREE ticket in advance.

Here Comes The Sun Festival 2026
Saturday 8 August 2026 2PM - 11PM

Prices: General Admission £16.50 Low Income £11 Supporter £27.50 On The Door: £20 Under-14s FREE

The Rising Sun’s annual celebration of music, art, creativity and community is back!

For one day only, the centre transforms into a colourful festival space packed with live music, spoken word, comedy, art installations, workshops and family-friendly activities across three stages.
Featuring performances from:
Glass Half Broken | Shallowdaze | Nick Saxton | Polly B Rose • Jessica Bits | Icey Music | She+Choir | Dead Sea Trio | Eleni |Modeste | Greg Mayston’s Folk, Blues & Americana | Louis Jacobi | Stable Boys | Neurish | Pipe Major Ron Patterson |
Zap! Comedy & Friends | Dreading Slam |,Improv Comedy Group | Primal Resonance | Pendulum Music | Stable boys | Neurish

Expect bunting, colour, creativity, great food and drink, and a full day celebrating everything that makes the Rising Sun special.

Tickets available now via WeGotTickets.

Date: Friday 19th June 2026
Time: 11am - 12pm

Come together to sing, learn songs, make sounds and create harmony.
Designed as a family friendly space, so mums can come with young babies, young children and partners.

There will be music for children and adults!

No previous musical experience is necessary - all abilities welcome.

Contact Rose for more information:
[email protected]

Reading Q***r Ball 2026
Saturday 25 Apr 2026 Doors open at 18:30 £10–£25 (all prices include booking fees)

Step back in time and party like it’s 1926

Inspired by the legendary Hamilton Lodge Balls of the 1920s and 30s, Reading Q***r Ball returns for an unforgettable evening of glamour, performance, music, and dancing.
Dress Code: Jazz Age Glamour Ballgowns, evening dresses, tuxedos, dark suits, vintage style and dazzling jewellery encouraged.

Featuring performances from:
• Major Dom
• Kit Kelly
• Dandy Darling
• Liubov Fisher Live music from The Blueprints

Strike a pose at our vintage photo backdrop and have your portrait taken on a classic Twin Lens Reflex camera.

Expect a night of q***r joy, cabaret, live music, community, and plenty of opportunities to cut a rug.

Tickets available via Outsavvy:
• Unwaged/Low Income: £10
• General Admission: £15
• Solidarity Tickets: £20 / £25

Step-free access available via the rear entrance. Accessible parking and toilet facilities available.

***rBall ***rEvents

Art Space
Sat 13 Jun & Sat 11 Jul 1pm - 3pm Lounge

Donation: pay what you can (cash only)

Looking for time and space to be creative?

Art Space is a relaxed, informal session where you can work on your own artwork, share ideas with others, and enjoy creating in a friendly, social environment.
Bring your own materials Discuss ideas and creative projects No tutor, no pressure, just art and community

Whether you’re sketching, painting, collaging, or experimenting with something new, everyone is welcome.

Join us 1st Saturday of the month @ The Rising Sun Arts Centre as we showcase the incredible talents of local artists and creators.

Date: June 6th
Time: 10AM - 3PM
Venue: Rising Sun Arts Centre, RG1 2ST

Expect local artists, makers, and crafters selling handmade pieces. As well as a fully stocked bar and homemade bakes & treats. Discover one-of-a-kind artworks, handmade crafts, and unique designs. There's something for everyone to admire and take home.

Free entry – all welcome!

Interested in being a vendor? We have spaces left. Apply below!
[https://forms.gle/Tincceag8EqTgSva]