Why do we love theatre, gigs, comedy shows, circus, magic and cabaret? As the lights dim and performers take to the stage, is it mere escapism from our everyday lives or is there something more profound about our need to be entertained?

In his latest book Ghosts of the Medicine Show: An Odyssey into the Shamanic Roots of Popular Entertainment David Bramwell presents the idea that shamanism never disappeared in western culture. Instead, it took the ‘show’ on the road in the darkened yurts of our modern arenas, circus big tops, cinemas, theatres and music venues.

This entertaining lecture takes us on a journey through the wilder corners of modern entertainment history and concludes: the show must go on because it is the medicine we all need.

Tickets are £12 and available from www.shorehamwordfest.com