Music / News

Former church reborn as new music venue

By Ursula Billington  Thursday May 2, 2024

The Firmly Rooted family are launching a new music venue which will bring people together for “connection in creating through the community.”

The team behind the system that powered the Nia Archives Stokes Croft session for Save Our Scene, Boomtown’s Sub-Lab, St Paul’s Carnival, Teachings in Dub and countless other roots, jungle and bass nights across Bristol, has taken on a 17th century church in Bedminster.

St Dunstan’s House blends modern artistry with a gothic aesthetic, providing a unique backdrop for shows.

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The converted church in Bedminster is a multi-purpose event space that, as well as gigs, will host dance, yoga, workshops and weddings – photo: St Dunstan’s

The venue launches on Friday with an ‘unprecedented night of music, energy and unity.’ Live music comes from seven-piece funky neo-soul outfit Stone Cold Hustle. ‘Feel the vibe, join the tribe’ jams invite punters to get involved and premier DJs Steve Rice, Lexxi and Drifty bring the latest hits and timeless classics.

“This isn’t just an event,” says organiser Jake Stewart, the mastermind behind Firmly Rooted and this latest venture. “It’s a journey through soundscapes crafted by the most talented artists in the scene.”

The venue is just a few minutes’ walk from Parson Street station. Jake’s vision for the space is a focus on grassroots community arts.

“We want to build a community around the expression of art and culture, along with educational and outreach programs for the wider Bristol network – a holistic approach to venue spaces and what they can offer,” says Jake, adding the venue is a special space:

“St Dunstan’s House holds a very eccentric feel, offering a dramatic hall with marble flooring and the stained-glass windows providing great natural lighting with a distinctive backdrop of modern art.”

Bristol’s homegrown Stone Cold Hustle will be bringing their kicking live funk show to the venue’s launch night on Friday – photo: Stone Cold Hustle

Friday’s gig goers are invited to ‘dive into the heart of melody and rhythm’ and ‘be part of a night where music isn’t just heard, but felt.’

The team promise a night where music, ambience and camaraderie converge into an extraordinary experience, adding: “ Be part of history as we introduce this iconic venue to the world of music and celebration.”

The House of Dunce launch night of St Dunstan’s House (BS13 7AB) takes place from 6pm to midnight on May 3. More info and tickets at www.headfirstbristol.co.uk/whats-on/st-dunstan-s-house/fri-3-may-st-dunstans-presents-opening-party-107158#e107158

Main photo: St Dunstan’s

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