Hebden Bridge Arts Festival’s fabulous fortnight

Wednesday, 16 July 2008

“A fabulous fortnight” – that’s how this year’s Hebden Bridge Arts Festival has been described.

There were more than 35 events at 12 different venues; 12 events completely sold out, and more than 3,000 tickets were bought. More than 150 performers from all over the world, including Barcelona, Japan, Hungary, California, Melbourne, Ireland, London and the Calder Valley, came along to delight audiences.

The most talked-about highlights were performances by the London Bulgarian Choir, and Barnabas Hegyi, and a poignant production of The Lady of Burma.

The choral singing of Words on the Street and the free street entertainment were mentioned by lots of visitors as being a fantastic introduction to the unique atmosphere of the area. One lucky girl was delighted to have found more than £8 in silver on Richard Dedomenici’s treasure hunt.

“Lots of people were talking about the buzz they could feel, and some retailers have commented on the extra trade generated by Festival,” said Festival Administrator Rebecca Yorke. “It’s been a fabulous fortnight. The events have been well attended and we have received some very appreciative feedback both from audiences and the performers.”

For the organisers, who give their free time to bring the Festival together each year, there’s no let-up. Discussions about next year’s fortnight of music, dance, theatre and art start even before the banners and posters have come down.

See also

Festival site

Festival Singing in the Streets

Festival street events