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Spell Songs poster at Sheffield Octagon

The Spiel

A much-anticipated live performance by folk ‘supergroup’ Spell Songs, the musical evolution of the iconic Lost Words and Lost Spells books by acclaimed author Robert Macfarlane and award-winning artist Jackie Morris, commissioned by Folk by the Oak Festival and featuring the collaborative genius of Karine Polwart, Julie Fowlis, Seckou Keita, Kris Drever, Rachel Newton, Beth Porter and Jim Molyneux. Spell Songs are renowned for enthralling live performances that expertly blend virtuosic kora, electroharp, cello, Indian harmonium and more, gorgeously layered with musical and linguistic influences spanning from Orkney to Senegal. Inspired by Robert and Jackie’s latest work, The Book of Birds, Spell Song’s new studio album In Thin Air is released on 4th September and this uplifting performance will include a wealth of beautiful new songs alongside favourites from The Lost Words Spell Songs (2019) and Spell Songs II, Let The Light In (2021). Spell Songs will be joined on stage by Lost Words artist Jackie Morris conjuring creatures and birds from ink and watercolour, bringing a captivating artistic dimension to all the shows. Praise for Spell Songs Live “One of the best live experiences I’ve ever seen at Birmingham Town Hall” Chris Proctor, Head of Programming, Birmingham Town Hall and Symphony Hall “The art, the music, the sheer, ravishing beauty of the language… one of the greatest concerts we’ve ever had at Hay.” Hay International Literary Festival “Pure, organic folk loveliness of the highest calibre”

Nearby

Goes well with…

University & BroomhillFoundry nights on campus — Steel City student energy, then Bar One, Broomhill pies, or a proper pint at The University Arms.

Bar One (Sheffield SU)

4.4£8–£18🍔 SU bar & kitchen

Open · See SU for term-time hours

10% off burgers and wings with gig ticket. The classic pre-Foundry spot on The Outdoor City side of campus.

The Nottingham House (Broomhill)

4.6£12–£22🥧 Pub & pies

Open · See venue for hours

Free extra gravy or small side with any pie & gig ticket. Legendary for their pies — a short hop from Steel City gigs.

The University Arms

4.3£10–£20🍺 Traditional pub

Open · See venue for hours

£1 off any local cask ale with event ticket. A beautiful traditional pub seconds from campus — proper Sheffield.

Utility readout

Nearest tram / bus

Straight-line (approx.)

  • Tram · University of Sheffield260 m
  • Tram · Netherthorpe Road450 m
  • Tram · West Street680 m
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