On Thurs 16 April, Cuculi presents the first ever edition of The Cocoon, a brand new showcase night for genre-defying local artists who want to share something in development with our wonderful community of listeners.

The programme will consist of four artists/projects playing for around 20 mins each, with a short break between each set. Our nights often feature DIY artists who fall between genres - so expect to hear artists making or reimagining folk music, writing alt-folk/experimental/alt-pop songs, creating new contemporary classical or ambient music, or something in between.

Featured artists: BEC GARTHWAITE* | BEN CIPOLLA | THE DOROTHY SISTERS | MATT NORMAN & LUKE SHAW

*last minute addition - sadly Betty Blight has had to withdraw from the gig for health reasons.

Audience tickets available at three tiers:

General - £9
Community supporter - £11
Low income - £7

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THE DOROTHY SISTERS

FFO: The Staves, Laura Marling, Agnes Obel

The Dorothy Sisters are a new Bristol-based collective creating witchy folk for witchy folk. Named after ancestors lost before their time, they blend modern indie folk textures with elements of traditional folklore. Close vocal harmonies are underpinned by moody grooves in these dark chant-like original songs.

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BEN CIPOLLA

FFO: Nick Drake, John Martyn, Scott Matthews, Jack Johnson

Ben Cipolla is a singer and guitarist whose music blends soulful vocals, jazzy textures, and acoustic pop warmth. His versatile repertoire spans jazz standards, bossa nova classics, and reimagined pop favourites, keeping a natural fusion of genres at the heart of his sound. Based in Bristol and inspired by his Sicilian heritage, Cipolla has released two acclaimed albums. He'll be sharing new unheard material from his upcoming third album at The Cocoon.

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MATT NORMAN & LUKE SHAW

FFO: Tarren, Three Cane Whale, Eleven Magpies, Leveret

Having crossed paths a few times in sessions (including The Greenbank), mandolin players Matt Norman & Luke Shaw decided to try making music together. What's emerged is a bright, bouyant set of original tunes that weave together mandolin and fingerpicked guitar with satisfying rhythmic detail. The pair are also drawn to finding new ways to interpret and evolve songs that have been sung for hundreds of years. The Cocoon will be their debut performance as a duo!