Celebrating the big 4-0
HENLEY FESTIVAL has returned and this time it’s celebrating a huge 40-year anniversary.
This year saw some of the biggest acts to have taken to the floating stage, including Tom Jones, Craig David, The Script, Pete Tong, and Katherine
Jenkins.
The festival began with its usual offering of a number of diverse exhibition spaces, featuring striking modern pieces, bold sculpture work, and more traditional artworks.
With the Kevin Davy
Quartet and Adam Isaac, the crowds were suitably warmed up for The Script, who performed a stellar set.
They were followed by a spectacular fireworks display, complete with a moving drone display to honour the event’s fortieth anniversary.
As well as music, the evening offered comedy performances from Ahir Shah, standing in for Ivo Graham, and Glen Moore.
Both showed prowess and pin-sharp comedy chops with the political satire that they’re each known and celebrated for.
The evening was brought to a rapturous end with a spellbinding performance by industry giants Boney M, who made a rare appearance with original lead singer Liz Mitchell.
While the entirety of the set was a highlight, classic hits Daddy Cool and Ra-Ra Rasputin were met with unmatched cheering and applause.
Among the culinary offerings was a dedicated space where Orwell’s served up their signature style of fine dining.
Speaking at the event, Liam Simpson-Trotman said that the team at Orwell’s had been looking forward to the event.
“The family day on Sunday, especially, its really cool, there’s all the arty stuff, and we love to get involved– they always come to us for our Mr Softie ice creams,” he said.
“We’ve invested in a really fantastic team this year, one of whom will be dressed as an ice cream cone since it’s great to get the kids involved, too.
“It’s a challenge, stepping up to more than 400 orders in a few hours, but our team is young, dynamic, and raring to go.”