BARK Fundraiser Ipswich
A Night of Live Music at St Stephen’s Church
Featuring Harriet Cree, Fighting Steaks & The Bungees
Introduction to the BARK Fundraiser Event
The Ipswich Underground were proud to attend an unforgettable evening of music in support of the upcoming film BARK, held in collaboration with Brighten The Corners at St Stephen’s Church on Saturday, 4th April.
The night was genuinely inspiring.
It was revitalising to see an Ipswich stage come alive with so much talent.
St Stephen’s Church remains an incredibly beautiful venue; its centuries-old character naturally creates a dramatically picturesque setting for events, imbuing the experience with a timeless presence that always elevates the experience of being there. To see it act as a hub for local creativity, continually supporting young artists and grassroots events like these, is truly magnificent. In many ways, it’s a reminder of the role spaces like this play in making Ipswich’s cultural identity so special.
The evening itself was a heart-warming experience, bringing together artists, filmmakers, and audiences in a shared cultural moment that blended creativity and community.
BARK, a bold and atmospheric indie production set to film this summer, follows the story of three hunters whose journey gradually unravels – shifting from a physical pursuit into something more psychological.
Grounded in the Suffolk landscape, this abstract exploration of tensions reflects the distinct creative vision of filmmakers Reuben and Hal Waghorn. Supported by performances from Harriet Cree, Fighting Steaks, and The Bungees, it was a special night for the town to gather and an encouraging community event to see such strong local support gathering behind it. And it was so nice to see so much of Ipswich’s backyard turn out in support of its centre.
To us, the night felt more than just a fundraiser as it seemed to have awakened a collective spirit. Offering a glimpse into a vibrant creative network, where artists and organisations like Brighten The Corners come together to spark something into motion. Serving as a beautiful reminder of what happens when a town unites to support young creatives, in work that is still raw, unfolding, and full of possibility.
Harriet Cree Live Performance
Harriet Cree delivered one of the most delicate and emotionally engaging sets of the evening.
Her performance carried a special intimacy that suited St Stephen’s Church perfectly; she has a graceful skill in allowing each note and lyric to resonate through the space. There’s a softness to her presence on stage, yet also a clear confidence that held the audience’s attention throughout.
She was beautifully accompanied by two remarkable vocalists on the piano and guitar, whose harmonies added an intricate depth and texture to the set.
Her music leaned into an indie-folk sensibility, shaped by reflective songwriting and understated arrangement. Rather than aiming for spectacle, the set focused on atmosphere and emotional connection, drawing the audience into a more personal listening experience. It became one of the most quietly powerful moments of the night, lingering long after her set had ended.
Fighting Steaks Live Performance
Fighting Steaks’ explosive entrance was mesmerising, as shadowed figures emerged slowly from a wall of red smoke, accompanied by the long, dilated tones of distorted guitar.
They immediately brought a razor-edge to the evening, shifting the atmosphere in St Stephen’s Church with a surge of raw intensity and confidence, delivering a bold, original, and dynamic set that truly electrified the stage.
The band carried a grunge-leaning indie-rock style with clear hard punk rock influences. They tore through the set with tight instrumentation and a strong sense of momentum, pushing the pace to the max. Their performance showed sharp precision, allowing each moment to land with impact, and the set brought a real contrast to the night, one we thoroughly enjoyed.
Fighting Streaks’ original material felt both heavy and distinctive; they left us with a unique sound and a lasting impression.
The Bungees Live Performance
The Bungees brought a vibrant energy that quickly became infectious.
Their sound opened the room, bringing a sense of ease that warmed the dance floor. They brought an uplifting set that felt playful, energetic, and full of character. Throughout the evening, we had explored intimacy and intensity, and now The Bungees introduced a sense of release, the room with their upbeat rhythms and scruffy energy that made the set feel loose and spontaneous. sound which carried a bright indie-rock tone, driven by catchy rhythms and an easy stage presence that made them instantly engaging to watch. There was a natural chemistry between the band members, and that energy translated effortlessly into the crowd. It felt less like a performance at times and more like a moment everyone was part of.
Their music tended to gravitate towards a bright indie feel. There was a real sense of chemistry between the band and the crowd; their songs translated naturally to everyone in the place, and they hosted a brilliant presence on stage.
The Bungees certainly had that slightly rough, live edge that makes a performance that’s much more human and rock n’ roll. It was definitely a refreshing close to the night, uplifting, powerful and touching in many ways.
A Night That Captured Ipswich at Its Best
Events like this are a reminder of what Ipswich does best.
When artists, organisers, and audiences come together with a shared purpose, something real happens. It’s not just about the music, or even the fundraiser itself – it’s about building a culture that supports creativity at every level. From emerging musicians to independent filmmakers, nights like this show that Ipswich isn’t just watching from the sidelines; it’s actively creating.
BARK is shaping up to be something genuinely exciting, and if this event was anything to go by, it already has a strong community behind it.
For those who couldn’t make it, or for those who want to relive the atmosphere, we captured the night.
And as always, stay locked in with Ipswich Underground for more coverage of the town’s most exciting live events, emerging artists, and grassroots culture.