St Leonard’s, Hythe
Prepare for a sensory takeover as JAM on the Marsh returns for its 12th spectacular year between 8 – 12 July 2026. This isn’t just a festival; it’s a high-octane collision of world-class ambition and the wild, atmospheric beauty of the Kent coastline.
From the salt marshes to the stage, it will bring five days of electrifying theatre, virtuosic music, and boundary-breaking art.
The 2026 Highlights
Curated by Edward Armitage in a grand finale season, this year explores the sultry sounds of French impressionism and the rebellious spirit of jazz.
- Star Power: Catch the incomparable Alexander Armstrong and soprano Claire Booth as they swing through “The Roaring 20s.”
- Open-Air Drama: Changeling Theatre celebrates its 25th anniversary with a riotous, sun-drenched production of Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing.
- Brass Brilliance: The world-famous Black Dyke Band brings the house down with the soul-stirring music of Brassed Off.
- Marsh Premieres: Witness the birth of new art with three world premieres composed right here in the heart of the Marsh.
The Line-Up: 5 Days of Pure Inspiration
| Date | Time | Event | Venue |
| Wed 8 July | 7:00pm | Much Ado About Nothing (Changeling Theatre) | The Old School Garden, New Romney |
| Thu 9 July | 7:00pm | Four Hands, One Piano: Thomas Kelly & John F. Hudson | St Leonard’s, Hythe |
| Fri 10 July | 11:00am | Sunflowers Singers: Community Concert | St Dunstan, Snargate |
| 7:00pm | Debussy & Ravel: JAM Sinfonia & Cyrill Ibrahim | St Nicholas, New Romney | |
| Sat 11 July | 11:00am | Into the Bellows: Ryan Corbett (Accordion) | St Nicholas, New Romney |
| 7:00pm | The Roaring 20s: Alexander Armstrong & Claire Booth | St Nicholas, New Romney | |
| Sun 12 July | 11:00am | Violin Recital: Fenella Humphries | St Clement, Old Romney |
| 3:00pm | Festmusik & Brassed Off: Black Dyke Band | St Nicholas, New Romney |
More Than Just a Backdrop
At JAM on the Marsh, the landscape is the lead character. Whether it’s the medieval stone of our ancient churches or the wide-open skies of the Romney coast, the environment breathes life into every note.
Coming Soon:
Stay tuned for National Theatre Live screenings at Cinemarsh and the 2026 Visual Art Exhibition announcements!