About us...

Wotton under Edge Arts Festival’s aim is to encourage artistic talent, both local and from further afield.  The endeavour is to present a varied programme of arts to appeal to all the community.

The longevity of the Festival is due in no small part to its strong community base and the support of local people and organisations.

Please read on (below) for information on the 2016 Festival and the forthcoming New Year's Eve concert.

The 2016 Festival...
​

​Well, the dust has now settled on our 46th Wotton Arts Festival and we can look back on another enjoyable and well supported set of events.  St. George's Day opened the proceedings, not quite in snow and frost, but it felt a bit like it! Despite that the dragon was built and slain and the Morris dancers and mummers entertained us.  Wotton & District Silver Band nearly lifted the roof from the church, aided by the deep voices of Dursley Male Voice Choir, followed next day by the mellow tones of Phoenix Chamber Recorder Orchestra.  The art exhibition was well supplied with pieces, many from new names to us, and the overall standard was high.  The Heritage Walks were oversubscribed, and the schools concert again enthusiastically supported by large numbers of parents and wider family.  Once more our local children showed a wide range of talent and some outstanding solo performances.  Ali Vowles again drew stories of their youth and careers from two local celebrities, and a large audience enjoyed snatches of their nostalgic music choices, from opera to punk.  A small audience was fascinated on Thursday by some old films rescued from the bin - how many uses can you find for an Austin 7 engine?!  Friday evening had a Roman Britain flavour as we learned of Chedworth Roman Manor.  More artistic flair was apparent in Matthew Bigwood's photographic exhibition, with very unusual and fascinating views around the area.  The Festival Concert this year was excellent, with Bristol Ensemble and Bath Camerata.  There was a real gelling of effort here to produce an outstanding evening.  ...and finally many people made their way up Wotton Hill on the Sunday May 1st to hear the Band again and enjoy the views - the air was cool, but dry!  The Festival Service rounded everything off on Sunday evening.

Thank you for your attendance if you came to any of the events.  We hope you enjoyed them, and would love to hear any ideas you have for those or different events for next year.  Do use our Contact Form to let us know.  Right, on with the planning for 2017...

Next event - New Yeart's Eve concert, 2016

Once again Justine Tomlinson and friends will start our New Year's Eve celebrations with a light hearted concert in St Mary's Parish Church at 6pm.  Tickets will be available from early December.  Watch this space for details.