Drum & Dance Gathering: Bristol Summer Beats
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We welcome you to the Arnos Vale Woodlands at the Underwood Centre for an afternoon where drums pulse with primal energy and bodies dance in celebration of now.
This gathering brings together drummers and dancers in a special collaboration between Ruth and Brillo, creating a space where we honour life together beneath the summer sky.
YOUR DRUM & MOVEMENT JOURNEY OPENING
Experience the super bassy and calming resonance of our 40" Foremother Drum. Each participant will have the opportunity to stand next to her and receive healing vibrations while making their own silent intention for the day.
Be transported by ancient melodies from the Middle Eastern cifteli, accompanied by shruti box and polyphonic overtone singing, creating an environment where we connect with our roots and each other
COMMUNITY RHYTHM EXPERIENCE
Express yourself in our first dynamic drum and dance jam where everyone belongs, regardless of experience.
Take turns playing the Foremother Drum in groups of two or three, connecting through practices that have united communities for thousands of years.
For dancers and non-drummers: This gathering equally celebrates movement! Let your body become your instrument!
SOCIAL CONNECTION
Refresh and connect during our break with herbal tea (bring your own mug) and snacks
SOUND EXPLORATION
An opportunity to discover your natural voice through simple guided sound practices.
Express yourself in our second community jam through rhythm, percussion and free movement
IMMERSIVE GONG & DRUM BATH FINALE
Experience a rare group opportunity of sitting between the Foremother Drum and gong in a 360° sound immersion to close the circle
Feel the power of bringing rhythm and movement to this extraordinary place - where trees embrace stone, where stories linger in the air, and where we connect deeply to life's vital essence. We celebrate fully here, finding heightened joy in this threshold space where past and present meet.
What to bring to the gathering
- Your drum (and rattles) if you're drumming (some extras will be available)
- Loose, comfortable clothes for moving freely if you're dancing
- Water to stay hydrated
- Something to sit on
- Your authentic self, ready to play and connect
Minimum fitness level required.
Age restrictions: 18+
| Drummer ticket (You’re bringing a drum /rattles to create rhythms) | £25.25 |
| Dancer ticket (You’re dancing to the drums, no instrument needed) | £25.25 |
| Dancer: Early Bird (finishes on 22 June) | £22.22 |
| Drummer: Early Bird (finishes on 22 June) | £22.22 |
What people are saying
Jun 2025
This was such a wonderful experience with a group of lovely like minded people. Ruth and Brillo m...
Jun 2025
A beautiful afternoon, in a magical location. It was great to just relax and be with nature, and ...
Jun 2025
Such a beautiful, immersive experience, and truly welcoming, even if you’re someone who generally...
Jun 2025
Absolutely loved the Woodland Drumming Circle! The energy was powerful, grounding, and yet uplift...
How to get there
Facilities
- Adult changing
- Experience takes place outdoors
- Parking
- Refreshments available
- Toilets
On the day
Limited parking is available. Use BS4 3EW for the main Bath Road entrance.
The event takes place at the Underwood Centre, an outdoor, undercover venue nestled in the woodland area. From the parking area, head toward the Atrium Café You’ll find toilets conveniently attached to the café for public use. The Underwood Centre is a short walk from the café, look for event signage or ask staff at the café for directions.
If you’re cycling, bike racks are available at the Bath Road entrance.
Changes happen, don't worry
You'll be hosted by
Brillo
Brillo is a songwriter, composer, and teacher.
"I mostly lived on a mountain on my own from my late teens, until my late 20’s. I learned a lot about the principles of life from nature and my deep dives into music and creativity. For a long time, I saw music and songwriting more as a coping mechanism. I didn't realise at the time that I was learning to heal personal trauma. Though healing is an ongoing thing, I now use what I've learned to support others."
Ruth
Ruth is a qualified sound therapist and writer.
“After suffering from chronic pain for 13 years beforehand, my drum unintentionally became the antidote to my pain. An accidental gong bath, revealed to me that sound was my calling. Drumming, sound and movement have been incredibly healing for me and I love supporting people to delve into their inner worlds; to discover the wisdom that already exists within."
Any questions?
Ask your question directly to Starshine Roots.