After a five-year hiatus, Kibitz are back with a funky vengeance bringing new members, new music & plenty more dancing!
Their latest incarnation as a quintet - violin, accordion, guitar, bass & drums - shifts the focus to new original music. Still predominantly inspired by the soundscapes of klezmer and Balkan music, they bring together a sonic whirlwind of their eclectic influences, incorporating elements as far reaching as jazz manouche, Irish trad, reggae, classical and prog rock, playfully experimenting with time, texture, mood and dynamic.  Expect to get a sweat on with their infectious beats and melodies!
They have performed regularly throughout the UK playing everywhere from festivals, theme parks and theatre shows to weddings, bar mitzvahs and beyond. Highlights from the early years include performances at Llangollen International Festival and Latitude Festival, running workshops at WOMAD Festival and the University of St Andrews, and featuring on the BBC Four documentary 'The Jews of Leeds'. Most recently, their July 2025 appearance on Beat-Herder Festival's Smoky Tentacles stage was met with critical acclaim.
One thing has remained consistent since the early days: it's moving music to move your body to - performed with good feeling & good humour!

Meriel Paget :- 
Meriel is a violinist and vocalist whose music blends the richness of folk traditions and stories with contemporary sounds. Rooted in her musical upbringing in Welsh and English folk music, she composes using loops and electronic effects to create intricate multilayered arrangements that act as a base for her songwriting.  
Growing up in rural West Wales, Meriel’s compositions reflect the emotions and experiences of her journey into adulthood, often drawing inspiration from the landscapes and memories of her childhood home.     
With her newly formed Leeds-based band featuring Emily Keeble on cello and vocals, Leo Thomas on drums and Samwise Seidel on guitar, Meriel and her band are exploring new textures and soundscapes that range from energetic to more delicate, cinematic moments.

Description

The Barrel House Ballroom stands as a significant cultural asset within Totnes, a dedicated hub for live performance that extends its influence across South Devon. Supported by Arts Council England and operating in collaboration with Sorting Room Studios, it plays a crucial role in sustaining the grassroots music ecosystem, actively contributing to initiatives like the Music Venue Trust. This commitment positions it beyond a mere commercial enterprise, fostering a vibrant space for artistic development and community engagement.

Inside, the venue offers an authentic atmosphere where the reverberating sound of live music fills the air. The space, often bathed in the warm glow of stage lights, feels intimate yet capable of holding a substantial energy, providing a direct connection between performers and audience. It is a setting designed for focused appreciation of sound and performance.

Located on the High Street, the Ballroom is situated on the first floor, with access currently via stairs. While seating is limited, the venue is actively exploring solutions to enhance accessibility for all patrons. On the ground floor, the Totnes Brewing Co. provides a selection of craft beers and other beverages, which can be enjoyed upstairs during events.

The programming at The Barrel House Ballroom is broad, encompassing a regular schedule of live music from various genres, alongside comedy nights, spoken word events, and DJ sets. It is also a consistent home for community-led initiatives, including open mic sessions and jam nights, providing a platform for local talent to develop and connect.