A TOWN is striking the right note with the launch of its first arts festival.
Brighouse Arts Festival got underway last night in fine tune at its official launch in front of 40 specially-invited guests.
Brighouse singer Roger Davies kicked-off the arts festival by playing some of his hits in the art house of the Harrison Lord Gallery.
It was an event to show people what they’re in for when the festival gets underway from August 23-31.
Steven Lord, owner of the gallery and one of the festival committee members, said: “The launch event generated lots of interest. It was a cracking evening which went beyond our expectations.
“From small beginnings the event is really taking off.
“From sitting around a table wondering if we could pull it off, we are now getting very excited. It’s going to be brilliant.”
As part of the week-long arts festival the Ian McMillan Orchestra, the Yorkshire Saxophone Choir, the Spirit of Harmony Barber Shop ensemble and Roger Davies with the Hege band will perform.
There will be piano recitals, craft stalls, soul and Motown nights, a textile workshop and choral concert.
Ann Cleeves, the writer behind the hit TV series Vera, will lead a literacy evening and a wide range of workshops for those who prefer a more hands on experience.
The Calderdale Open Art Exhibition and Harrison Lord Gallery are also celebrating the festival with exhibitions.
Another planned event is the ‘Party in the Park’ which is intended to be an informal family event, designed to encourage the people of Brighouse to come and enjoy the surroundings of the Rydings Park.
They will be encouraged to enjoy a picnic in the grounds and to visit the events in the Library and Art Gallery that have been specially organised for the day.
The park, library and Art gallery will be open from 11.00am until 5.00pm on Sunday, August 26.
Events are still being finalised but there will be a Dr Who themed event in four sessions for children that will take place in the Library, a graffiti artist working in the grounds, and interactive art activity and a big drawing event in the gallery in the afternoon, as well as a drawing workshop led by Matthew Evans also in the park.
For the full line up and bookings visit www.brighousefestival.co.uk.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available for the not-for-profit festival.
