Soka Fest brings together the Reading and Berkshire music communities, to fundraise in memory of Sophie Sheehan.
In 2025, Reading lost a much-loved member of its music community, Sophie Sheehan.
Sophie brought energy, passion, and personality to the local scene.
She regularly performed live, helped organise Reading Pride, and strongly supported Reading’s LGBTQ+ community. In recognition of this, she was awarded the Berkshire Artistree Award in 2024.
Several events will be held on the day: see below to see who’s playing where:
The Butler
One of Reading’s most active grassroots music venues. It sits at the heart of the local scene and hosts the well-known Butler Open Mic Night.
Broad Street Mall
Sitting at the end of the Reading high street, the Broad Street Mall hosts a large area to perform and enjoy live music.
The Oakford Social Club
Located near Reading Station, this long-standing venue has supported live music for more than 25 years, continuing to give artists a platform to perform and grow.
The Boundary
One of Reading’s most vibrant and quirky pubs, located in the town centre around the corner from the Purple Turtle.
Milk
A cosy bar just off Friar Street, Milk is known for its modern atmosphere, quality cocktails, and welcoming setting.
Market House
A lively social venue that hosts open mic nights, live sport, and community events throughout the year.
Local artists
Local artists from across Berkshire will come together to perform and raise funds for the cause.
Country powerhouse Nicole Allan has spearheaded the event, with the support of local musicians from all over Berkshire. Collectively they are aiming to raise over £10,000 in memory of Sophie.
This special event honours Sophie’s life and celebrates the community she helped build.
In 2025, Reading lost a much-loved member of its music community, Sophie Sheehan.
Sophie brought energy, passion, and personality to the local scene.
She regularly performed live, helped organise Reading Pride, and strongly supported Reading’s LGBTQ+ community. In recognition of this, she was awarded the Berkshire Artistree Award in 2024.
Several events will be held on the day: see below to see who’s playing where:
The Butler
One of Reading’s most active grassroots music venues. It sits at the heart of the local scene and hosts the well-known Butler Open Mic Night.
Broad Street Mall
Sitting at the end of the Reading high street, the Broad Street Mall hosts a large area to perform and enjoy live music.
The Oakford Social Club
Located near Reading Station, this long-standing venue has supported live music for more than 25 years, continuing to give artists a platform to perform and grow.
The Boundary
One of Reading’s most vibrant and quirky pubs, located in the town centre around the corner from the Purple Turtle.
Milk
A cosy bar just off Friar Street, Milk is known for its modern atmosphere, quality cocktails, and welcoming setting.
Market House
A lively social venue that hosts open mic nights, live sport, and community events throughout the year.
Local artists
Local artists from across Berkshire will come together to perform and raise funds for the cause.
Country powerhouse Nicole Allan has spearheaded the event, with the support of local musicians from all over Berkshire. Collectively they are aiming to raise over £10,000 in memory of Sophie.
This special event honours Sophie’s life and celebrates the community she helped build.
