Enjoy ‘rich tapestry of talent’ at festival
Ross Kemp and Lorraine Kelly be among the celebrities sharing their life stories as the arts scene is celebrated at Cookham Festival this year.
The biennial festival will return from Friday, May 3 to Sunday, May 19 and will offer up a variety of treats for everyone through ‘captivating performances, engaging workshops and though-provoking exhibitions’.
A diverse line-up of musical performances in gentres ranging from jazz, folk and classical to contemporary works will take centre stage, with concerts featuring both emerging and established artists.
Fans of music will enjoy the return of Formosa Fest on Saturday, May 18, featuring an array of musicians from the area.
Rogue Opera will be entertaining fans of classical music, and a jazz quartet will also play at Pinder Hall.
TV presenter Lorraine Kelly, author Sir Terry Waite, actor, author and TV presenter Ross Kemp and Sir Nicholas Winton’s son Nick Winton will be sharing their life stories with visitors.
The festival will also feature talks and interactive workshops led by experts in a range of fields, providing people with the opportunity to explore new skills and ideas.
The Cookham Dig team will give an update on the excavation of an Anglo-Saxon monastery near Holy Trinity church.
Meanwhile, a games workshop will keep budding historians busy.
Events including craft workshops (charcoal, painting and ceramics) will be put on for families and children.
A ceilidh will also take place, and school children from the area will be performing a new Wind in the Willows musical.
During the course of the festival, visitors will be able to view the Sculpture Garden, situated in the Odney Club gardens.
Peter Wilson’s Comedy Club will be making a return to Pinder Hall, featuring comedians including Dave Chawner.
Established in 1967, the festival has been a ‘beacon’ of community spirit and creativity, showcasing the talents of artists in the area while welcoming performers from across the country.
Cookham Festival has been made possible by the support of businesses, sponsors and volunteers in the area.
Derek Bond, chair of the Cookham Festival committee, said: “We are thrilled to announce the return of the Cookham Festival, a celebration that brings our community together and showcases the rich tapestry of talent that exists within Cookham and beyond.
“After the challenges of the
past few years, we believe that this year’s festival will serve as a beacon of hope and joy,
uplifting spirits and fostering connections within our community.”