SUNDOWN began in winter 2003, poet JAMIE SPRACKLEN wanted to host his own open-mic poetry nights and musician STUART BOWDITCH wanted to provide some music for the night. It took place at the SUN ROOMS in Southend, JO OVERFIELD read her poems for the first time that night as did CHERRYL SCOTT.

Stuart went off travelling and SUNDOWN didn't start up again until August 2004 when Jo became involved along with graphic artist SARAH HICKS and SUNDOWN became a mixed event of poetry, music and DJ's. For months it took place above the RAILWAY HOTEL PUB in Southend before moving briefly to the back of the GOLDEN LION PUB. Eventually SUNDOWN grew bigger and moved to upstairs in the ballroom at the ROYAL HOTEL where it's stayed. The management at the hotel are perfect hosts and SUNDOWN loves the history of this room and how it overlooks the pier. Sadly, Jamie and Sarah parted ways with SUNDOWN wanting to concentrate on their own work and SUNDOWN remained being organised by Stuart, Cherryl and Jo.

Their aim was to create a night packed with a mix of entertainment for an affordable price, a cultural and artistic event that you wouldn't find out of place in a city. Taking inspiration from fringe festivals such as Edinburgh, SUNDOWN includes sketch comedy, stand-up, improv, short films, dj sets, visuals, acoustic music, electronica, featured poetry, open-mic, animation and much more. There is no other night like it in Essex and SUNDOWN plans to go from strength to strength to give you the best.

Stuart Bowditch has decided to take a break from Sundown to focus on his music career. Jo Overfield and Cherryl Scott remain as head organisers with Raymond, Malcolm Blake-Lawson, Chris Davison, Doozer, Sarah B, Mikey and Martine Pridgeon. Sundown is a collective and anyone who wants to support and help it, we welcome with open arms. It could not exist without you or them.