The Listening Room is back at The Talisman

Pandora Craig. Photo courtesy of the artist.

‘The Listening Room’ Returns to The Talisman Theatre: An Intimate Live Music Experience. At The Talisman Theatre & Arts Centre, Barrow Road, Kenilworth, CV8 1EG. On Sunday 16 November at 7.30pm (doors open 7pm).

Preview

Following a sold-out debut in July, The Listening Room returns to The Talisman Theatre, Kenilworth, for its second edition on Sunday 16 November. An evening dedicated to the art of songwriting, heartfelt storytelling, and authentic live performance.

Set within the welcoming ambience of the theatre’s new foyer and bar, The Listening Room invites audiences to enjoy an intimate night of original acoustic music, where songs are shared in their purest form — stripped back, honest, and full of emotion. Inspired by Nashville’s celebrated “Songwriters in the Round” format, this unique event offers a rare opportunity to connect directly with the artists behind the music.

The evening features an exceptional line-up of acclaimed singer-songwriters: Pandora Craig, Nicky Ager, David Ellis, and special guest Simon Hirst from New Zealand. The event is hosted and curated by local artist Daniel Barrie, who has a passion for live, original music. 

Pandora Craig: A powerful voice in the Midlands music scene, Pandora Craig is known for her emotionally charged performances and evocative songwriting. A six-time finalist in local songwriting competitions and a regular at the Godiva Festival, Pandora’s work blends ethereal soundscapes with vivid storytelling. Alongside her band The Way After — whose debut album Still to Breathe made waves — she co-founded Love + Madness Records and is currently recording her debut solo album.

Nicky Ager. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Nicky Ager: Coventry’s own Nicky Ager combines heartfelt lyrics with a soulful voice, creating performances that are both deeply personal and universally resonant. His work spans from the acoustic circuit to film and theatre, including co-writing original songs for the beloved Nativity films. His track “Witness” featured on the Front Room Sessions album for Coventry’s City of Culture celebrations and earned him a performance curated by the late Terry Hall at Coventry Cathedral. Recently, Nicky has co-written music for a successful touring musical, further cementing his reputation as a versatile and accomplished artist.

David Ellis. Photo courtesy of the artist.

David Ellis: Described by Mojo Magazine as “one to watch,” David Ellis crafts a distinctive sound that fuses indie rock grit with melodic, hook-driven songwriting. Drawing inspiration from the greats of the ’60s and ’70s with a touch of ’90s alternative flair, David’s music balances nostalgia and originality — capturing both emotion and energy in equal measure.

Simon Hirst. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Simon Hirst: Visiting from New Zealand, Simon Hirst brings a commanding stage presence and powerful vocals to UK audiences. His latest EP, Let Love Happen, showcases his dynamic range — from soaring ballads to driving rock anthems. Following a successful UK tour in 2024, Simon’s return promises another moving performance as he continues to make his mark internationally.

The Listening Room is more than just a concert — it’s a celebration of the songwriter’s craft. Each artist shares not only their music but the stories, emotions, and moments that inspired it, creating an experience that is intimate, authentic, and human.

Tickets are £10 and available via the website https://talismantheatre.co.uk/whats-on/