ENTERTAINMENT is to be cranked up in Winchester, as the Guildhall continues to offer a range of shows to its programme in 2017.

In the past few years, the Guildhall has grown steadily in increasing the offer of entertainment in Winchester attracting sell-out shows from Frank Turner, Kula Shaker to comedy veteran Jethro.

The Guildhall has also been chosen on a number of UK tours from artists such as Scott Matthews, Craig Charles DJ Funk n Soul Show and local rising singer-songwriter Josh Savage; the latter whom recently appeared on Radio 2’s playlist.

2017 is going to become the Guildhall’s busiest year yet with a sell-out show from stateside touring show Magic of Motown on March 4, one of the UK’s most popular tribute acts ‘Oye Santana’ on April 8 and American rock band Wheatus choosing Winchester as a stop-off on their UK summer tour – June 1. Tickets are available now from www.guildhallwinchester.co.uk

Guildhall Manager Chris Smith has said: “Since arriving in 2015, one of my objectives has been to increase the potential of our beautiful building for a range of entertainment. Winchester has so much to give as a city, and our real mix of residents both in the city and the wider area, deserve a cross section of events.

“I am pleased that we are starting to attract bigger shows to Winchester, in what is the cities largest event space for both standing and seated shows. What better building to enjoy events in than our historic Grade II Guildhall”.

The Guildhall is also supporting local live music and comedy by linking with the cities newest festival ‘Winchestival’, which takes place on June 17.

The festival has announced their headliners as Radio 1 favourites Eliza and the Bear as well as established circuit stand-up comedians Hal Cruttenden and Rob Deering.

For the full line-up and ticket information visit http://www.winchestival.co.uk/

The Guildhall will also host the official ‘afterparty’ for the festival. More information can be found on the website in the coming months.

The Guildhall is making continuous improvements to the building during 2017 to accommodate new planned shows.