Join us at Hexham Old Gaol on Friday 15th September for a special broadcast and performance of ‘Homer’s Lane’ – a 40 min audio play by Gabriele Heller, inspired by the life and work of Joseph Hedley (Joe the Quilter).

Joe the Quilter was a typical representative of the rural cottage industry in the 1800. He attained wider recognition for his quilting skills and his tasteful design patterns. His work appeared to be very popular and some of his quilts were sent as far as America.

In 1826 Joe was brutally murdered in his own cottage. His gruesome death led to a murder inquiry and finally all his belongings were sold at an auction at Homer’s House.

Homer’s Lane explores our past and modern understanding of labour, quality and time and how this has shaped our society and the way we live today. It combines elements of true crime with themes of heritage, craftsmanship and life in rural communities.

About Water Music (performing as part of the evening performance)

Having played together for many years, bassist John Pope and violinist John Garner have been described by A Jazz Noise as ‘absolutely addictive’ and by The Jazz Mann as ‘nothing less than extra ordinary’.

Their 2022 album Water Music paid tribute to mid- to late-twentieth century artists who shook the world to its core, driving political and social change in their wake, including Jeanne Lee, Alice Coltrane, Ornette Coleman and Don Cherry.

In 2022 they appeared at Lancaster Jazz Festival and Newcastle Festival of Jazz and Improvised Music, as well as venues in Bristol, Newcastle, Edinburgh, and Leeds and in August 2023 made their London debut at the internationally celebrated Cafe OTO.