After a busy year featuring an array of exciting events, Dereham Memorial Hall is looking ahead to a bumper 2023. 

The venue can already boast a busy schedule over the next 12 months, during which it will showcase some of the very best talents from the performing arts world. 

Dereham Times: When Rivers Meet performing at the Dereham Blues Festival 2022 opening concert at Dereham Memorial HallWhen Rivers Meet performing at the Dereham Blues Festival 2022 opening concert at Dereham Memorial Hall (Image: Colin Collis)

Once again, the memorial hall will host Dereham Blues Festival's opening concert, while preparations for the second-ever Dereham Day are well under way. 

With plenty of bookings secured, Tim Cara, chairman of the Friends of Dereham Memorial Hall (FODMH), said a highlight would be the visit of theatre company Eastern Angles

They will perform a double bill of 'Medieval Miracles' plays on March 22 as part of their 40th-anniversary tour. 

Dereham Times: Eastern Angles will perform a double bill of 'Medieval Miracles' plays at Dereham Memorial HallEastern Angles will perform a double bill of 'Medieval Miracles' plays at Dereham Memorial Hall (Image: Eastern Angles)

"We've got a fair few things lined up," added Mr Cara. "The one that brings me the most pleasure is that Eastern Angles are coming to Dereham. 

"They are the premier touring theatre company in East Anglia, but they have not been to Dereham since the mid-80s. 

"It is quite a big deal to get them. They've got a really strong reputation."

Dereham Times: A scene from Dereham Day 2022A scene from Dereham Day 2022 (Image: Denise Bradley)

Dereham Day was held for the first time back in May, with the memorial hall and adjacent Fleece Meadow at the centre of proceedings. 

Overwhelmed at its success, the FODMH decided organising a second edition was a no-brainer

Dereham Day is therefore set to return on Saturday, May 13, 2023. 

Dereham Times: The first ever Dereham Day was held in 2022The first ever Dereham Day was held in 2022 (Image: Denise Bradley)

"There is a lot of momentum behind it because people have a better idea of what to expect and organisers know they can tweak it," said Mr Cara. 

"Again we'll be supporting societies, the voluntary sector, local performance groups - but also expanding our use of the Fleece Meadow."

Mr Cara said he was also looking forward to the visit of Opera Dudes, who will perform at St Nicholas Church on June 23. 

Dereham Times: Opera Dudes are set to perform at Dereham Memorial Hall in 2023Opera Dudes are set to perform at Dereham Memorial Hall in 2023 (Image: Opera Dudes)

"They are a great duo, like Alfie Boe and Michael Ball - two really good tenors," he added.

"It will be nice to put something on in the church."

Critically acclaimed Dire Straits tribute band, Dire Streets, will play the memorial hall in March, having twice sold out the venue in previous years. 

Moreover, the FODMH-organised 'Fourth Tuesday Film Night' continues to be a success, with around 60 members enjoying screenings at Orion Cinema.