Hampshire Writers’ Society

“One of the most vital arts organisations in Southern England” The Times. Anvil Arts is the largest performing arts organisation in Hampshire. We are an independent charitable trust that operates three fantastic cultural venues in Basingstoke, and presents a year-round programme of arts, entertainment and engagement in Basingstoke and community settings around the borough.

From grassroots origins to international audiences, we produce high-quality dance projects, develop artistic careers and improve wellbeing for our participants. Our medium is the classical Indian dance of Odissi. Originating from the Bay of Bengal over two thousand years ago, Odissi deals with contemporary and classical themes that remain just as relevant in storytelling today. Its narratives are researched and presented to audiences as both movements and rasas, representing emotions of real life experiences such as love, devotion, anger and playfulness. Our dancers and artists deliver renowned workshops and performances that bring Odissi to thousands of new audience members every year.

New Forest Heritage Centre, located in Lyndhurst, is a cultural hub offering a museum, gallery, reference library, and café. Operated by the New Forest Heritage Trust (Charity No. 1186656), the Centre shares the stories of the New Forest’s people, landscape, and traditions. It hosts exhibitions, learning programmes, and community events year-round. Free admission and a central location make it a key resource for heritage engagement and visitor orientation in the National Park.