Chris runs monthly music and poetry events in Bristol with Tonic Events. These include evening performances, writing workshops, radio broadcasts, day out trips and bespoke events within a festival format.
Chris runs events privately or in collaboration with organisations such as BBC Radio, Brunel's SS Great Britain, Bristol Central Library, and LYRA – Bristol Poetry Festival.
Chris has worked as part of the Valley Fest team, programming and co-running multiple stages for the spoken word, workshop and acoustic area.
Running events through the pandemic and co-producing Valley Fest '21 remotely have been tall orders that Chris has repeatedly risen to with determination and dedication.
Quotes:
'The Tonic workshop was a lot of fun. It was relaxed, and engaging, a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon.' – Mark L.
'This was so much more than a writing session! Chris balanced the tasks for all abilities, even for a novice like me! I have gained a lot in a short space of time. Thank you!!' – Barbara M.
'I didn't know anyone in the room beforehand but that didn't matter one jot. In no time, everyone was on a first-name basis and I felt included, engaged and involved from start to finish.' – Richard P.
'I really enjoyed it and would very much like to come again.' – Amanda T.
'I hate Zoom but I'd do it again for another Tonic Writing Jam ... Nice one!' – Liam L.
'What a wonderful thing! I left feeling so uplifted by everyone. I can already see my pen itching again!' – Debbie G.
Co-hosting a Tonic show with poet, Taran Spalding-Jenkin.
Poets and musicians join forces on Zoom during lockdown.
Discussions during the creative process at Bristol Central Library.
Having a blast running a workshop at Valley Fest 2019. (Photo by Adam Fung)
Half-time writing prompts galore!
Poets and musicians panel answering audience questions during Q&A.
Hosting a special night of music and spoken word in the art gallery HOURS Space, Bristol.
Poet, Helen Sheppard, performing for BBC Radio Bristol's "White Room Sessions".
Poet, Callum Wensley, performing for BBC Radio Bristol's "White Room Sessions".
Collaborative events have so much potential. This was certainly a great one!
