Hastings Hosts Mechanical Marvels
Get ready for a magical weekend filled with mechanical marvels at AutomataFest 2025 in The Observer Building, Cambridge Road, Hastings.
This highly anticipated event, organised by Cabaret Mechanical Theatre and Automata Magazine, celebrates the intricate and enchanting art of automata. The festival, held from 9-11 May, has already sold out of three-day passes. There are still a limited number of tickets available for the AutomataFest Fair on Sunday 11 May, though, when the Observer Building (OB) will be transformed into a wonderland for automatists, makers, collectors, and enthusiasts from around the world. There is something for everyone to discover and learn, and guests will have the unique opportunity to see contemporary automata in action and meet the masterminds behind them.
In addition, there is a free exhibition, on 11 May, in the OB vaults and neighbouring Mechanical Making Space. Automata made by festival attendees will be showcased, alongside exhibits from Cabaret Mechanical Theatre’s world-renowned collection, including the epic Gormenghast castle by artist Keith Newstead.
Saturday 10 May will see a special screening of Martin Scorsese’s acclaimed film Hugo, with insights and behind-the-scenes stories from the film’s automata and horological consultant, Michael Start.
Film: Saturday 10 May, Hastings Museum and Art Gallery TN34 1ET
Tickets £5, Door 6 pm, Screening 7 pm
Book tickets at automatafest.com
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