Musician and TV Star Martin Kemp announced as first act
A new town-wide festival celebrating music, arts and culture is coming to Melksham this September, with Spandau Ballet star Martin Kemp the first act to be announced.
The Sham Jam Festival will run from 18th to 27th September, bringing live music, comedy and community events to venues across the town as well as a marquee arena in King George V Park.
Martin Kemp, who recently appeared on ITV’s I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!, Channel 4’s Celebrity Gogglebox and is well known for his role in EastEnders, will bring his popular Back to the 80s Party to King George V Park on Friday 25th September.

Festival organisers, Melksham Town Council, say further nationally recognised acts will be announced in the coming weeks.
A comedy weekend will also form part of the programme, with details of performers set to be revealed soon.
Other events planned during the festival include live music, drama, dance, street art workshops and urban sports.
Cllr Jennie Westbrook said, “I’m incredibly excited for the Sham Jam and what it represents for our town. This is a fantastic opportunity for local people who love music, art and performance to come together and showcase the talent, creativity and community spirit that makes Melksham so special.
“Whether you’re a musician, artist, performer or simply someone who wants to get involved, this is a chance for us all to be part of something which shows the spirit of our town. If you’re interested in performing, I’d encourage you to get in touch with the town council and be part of what promises to be a brilliant celebration of local talent.
“Let’s come together, get involved, support one another and show everyone exactly what Melksham is made of.”
Residents, community groups, clubs, organisations and creatives are invited to help shape the festival and attend one of two open meetings at the town hall.
The first meeting is on Saturday 20th June at 11am; the second meeting is on Wednesday 24th June at 6.30pm.
Tickets for Martin Kemp are on sale now, with early bird tickets priced at £20 and general admission tickets £25. Tickets can be purchased online via the Melksham Assembly Hall website, See Tickets, Eventbrite and Gigantic, or in person from Melksham Town Council
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