Rotherham Arts Festival has launched
The first annual Rotherham Arts Festival was officially launched on Saturday 2nd May with a theatrical performance called ‘Taking Back the Town’ by Chol Theatre Production.
The event saw actors, dancers, opera singers and artists create a head–turning procession of shoppers on a busy Saturday lunchtime in the centre of Rotherham.
The production kicked off the Rotherham Arts Festival – a two-month festival that will see more than 25 performances across the town throughout May and June.
An array of music, art, photography and dance performances will be taking place across Rotherham to unite the community.
Rotherham College is working with local schools and a range of creative organisations to devise a range of events throughout the festival that everyone can enjoy.
Martyn Howells, Head of Visual and Performing Arts at Rotherham College, established the festival to celebrate the talent that exists in the town.
“It’s about uniting the community, bringing it together and showing that Rotherham has got talented people”, he said.
“At Rotherham College, we produce over 800 talented students every year. That talent needs to be maintained in the Rotherham area to create a cultural hub of entertainers that can go on to become professional artists, musicians, dancers etc.
“It’s important that we can regenerate the industry and create a platform for the people of Rotherham, and the arts festival provides them with the opportunity to showcase their skills to the entire community.”
Martyn added: “Come and support the festival – see the free shows, look at artwork, watch drama, listen to music and participate in the community festivals such as the Dinnington Carnival and Real Ale Festival at Magna.
“We’ve got something happening near enough every day. Help us build Rotherham into an Arts hub that needs to be celebrated.”