First Heswall Arts Festival is hotting up to make spectacular mark on event calendar

Sep 28 2011 by Linda Foo Guest, Bromborough and Bebington News

THE first Heswall Arts Festival is hotting up, ready to make a spectacular mark on Wirral’s event calendar.

Venues around the town will take part in the two-week celebration of a wide range of arts for young and old.

There will be music, comedy, drama, literature, dance, art and many other activities.

Community spirit will be alive with volunteers on hand to guide visitors through as many activities as possible.

The festival will take place between October 15 and 29 in 25 venues, hosting more than 400 artists at 54 events.

It is hoped the festival will boost the local economy by attracting more visitors, and establishing Heswall and west Wirral as a great venue for arts and entertainment.

The festival will open with a concert by Orchestra dell’Arte, showcasing local professional cellist, Nick Byrne, in Dvorak’s concerto.

Other events will include philosophy, science, art, dance and drama workshops, fitness classes and concerts.

The finale on October 29 will be an André Rieu style evening, including many of the famous Viennese waltzes and polkas, plus songs from soprano Laura Sheerin.

Festival director Dr Valerie Warr said: “We want to attract and excite audiences to believe that great experiences, education and fun can take place without the need to travel out of Wirral.

“This years’ festival is all about community and what we can do ourselves, either professionally or as our hobbies.

“Many of the local artists, clubs and societies will be performing or displaying their work.

“Some of our shops, cafes and restaurants are doing their best to boost trade in these difficult times by supporting our activities with special promotions, or providing exhibition space.

“I hope that locals will come out in force to enjoy what we have on offer.”

Tickets for all the events are available from Linghams Booksellers in Heswall. A souvenir programme is available for £3.

For more details visit www.heswall festival.com email info@heswall festival.com.