Dorset’s own singer-songwriter and actor Tim Laycock brings his dramatic and musical celebration of the life and poetry of William Barnes, ‘The Year Clock’, to rural Dorset.
In this fully dramatised piece, with wonderful musical accompaniment from fiddle player, Colin Thompson, Tim explores issues surrounding Barnes’ writings, such as why did a highly educated C19th teacher and parson choose to write poetry in a dialect few people could read? What does the erosion of dialect and accent tell us about ourselves?
Tim’s interest in the life and poetry of William Barnes was first kindled after hearing his works performed by a gamekeeper and a farmer in a local village hall. Nowa specialist in the songs, traditions and dialect of the West Country, and the poetry and prose of William Barnes and Thomas Hardy, these influences often form the basis of Tim’s own songwriting.
Performing the ‘The Year Clock’ on the Artsreach circuit for the first time since 2008, Tim once again brings his considerable acting skills to bear on a story which will both delight enthusiasts and introduce a new audience to the life and poetry of Barnes.
Sun 26 April, 7:30pm. West Stafford Village Hall. 01305 261984
