Lewes History Group

Roland Bryce is a composer and a music technology tutor at the East Sussex Academy of Music.

His new work, Carmina ex Ruinas, (Songs from the ruins) is a set of songs, plus narration, inspired by the stones from the ruins of Priory of Saint Pancras in Lewes.

A musical drama traced around the 1538 destruction by Sappers and Sr. Portinari of the Lewes Priory, at the behest of Cromwell and the monarch. The musicians and actor portray the story of an itinerant Monk who witnesses the events around the 20th to the 24th March 1538. The fiction is well keyed into historical accuracy and the poignancy of the story and the music combine to make a new and very ‘Lewes work’.

The songs feature transcribed phrases of Gregorian chant with a blend of functional harmony and modern textures including some synthesizer timbres that support the vocals.

Venue: St Mary’s Church, Church Hill, Ringmer, Lewes BN8 5JX

Entry: £10 at the door (portion of proceeds to Prostate Cancer UK)

Image at Roland Bryce’s website

An event at The Keep, Falmer

Jackie Marsh-Hobbs

The Brighton Marine Palace and Pier opened on 20 May 1899, 120 years ago.

In this celebration of the ‘people’s palace above the sea’, local historian Jackie Marsh-Hobbs will trace its story using old postcards, enchanting photographs and archive material.

A must for anyone who is interested in the pier’s history and wants to revive personal memories!

There will be a display of original material from The Keep’s collections from 5pm on the day of the talk.

Image at The Keep website

Venue: The Keep, Woollards Way, Brighton,  BN1 9BP

Entry:  £5 (includes free parking, usually £2.50), book at The Keep website

Lewes History Group Street Stories

As part of Lewes 2019 Heritage Open Days, there will be an exhibition on the initial research into the history of Albion Street, and East Street, Lewes.

Your contributions, photos, stories and information will be welcomed over a cup of tea and cake.

Venue: Yarrow Room, Ground Floor, Lewes Town Hall, High Street, BN7 2QS

Entry: Free – all welcome

East Street, Lewes, Cheetham Postcard