Last September, St Annes hosted its first ever Music and Arts Festival which consisted of three event-packed days packed. Now, the festival is back – and it’s bigger than ever. Running from Friday, September 6 to Saturday, September 14, there is a busy and eclectic programme of outdoor and indoor events planned and many of them are free.
The festival came about when the St Annes Town Council, and other local groups such as HALSA (Holiday Association of Lytham St Annes) and the Chamber of Trade, were trying to think of ways to attract more people to the town. Last year’s event proved such a success that the organisers have been inspired to make it bigger and better in 2013.
The festival programme has been put together with people of all ages in mind, whether they want to go to a show, listen to a lecture, or try out a new craft skill. Love music? There’s everything from classical to contemporary. If art is more your thing, then you can sign up for a painting demonstration or look on as a group of young street artists show their skills on a big cube that is sure to attract attention. The crafty among you are really spoilt for choice, with workshops on everything from needle felting and card making to fused glass and ceramics – with a craft fair for those who would rather buy than make their own.
Councillor Barbara Mackenzie, one of the festival’s organisers, is really excited about what lies ahead. She said:
We have something for everyone. One highlight for me is being able to bring the Jubilee String Quartet to town, as they are accomplished and internationally known – and one of the members is from St Annes, so there is a local connection. I’m also pleased that we have a little more going on in Ashton Gardens this year in terms of activities, refreshments, and music, plus we are showcasing local talent which is important.
I’m excited about The Big Sing, which will be a celebration of hymns. I love singing and I love traditional hymns and I think it is a great opportunity for the community to get together and sing their hearts out! People can get involved in several ways: by taking part, volunteering to help at any of the events, supporting the events by attending, sponsoring and, of course, spreading the word to as many people as possible.
The Jubilee String Quartet appear on Thursday, September 12 at 7.30pm, at The White Church, Fairhaven, FY8 1AX. Their pogramme includes Haydn Opus 54 No 2, Beethoven Opus 18 No 4, and Schubert’s Death and the Maiden. Tickets, £10, are available from Silantro on Wood Street (Tel 07950 644572).
The Big Sing – a celebration of hymns – is on Monday, September 9 at 7.30pm, at St Thomas’ Church, St Annes, FY8 1JL. The special guests are The Red Rose Chorus and tickets cost £1 each with free admission for children. Vote for your favourite hymn at local churches, phone (01253) 788579 or email [email protected].
You can download a copy of the Festival programme by clicking here.
