Welcome...
This year’s Festival programme is peppered with tributes to extraordinary individuals.
Through music we celebrate the lives of Paul Robeson, Dame Myra Hess and Frédéric Chopin, while Gilbert and Sullivan and Shakespeare’s gigantic rogue Falstaff jostle for position in our opera programme. Concerts of works by Shostakovich, Tallis and Beethoven reflect these composers at the pinnacle of their powers.
Living legends Rick Wakeman, Stacey Kent, Geno Washington and Chris Wood are all top exponents of their musical genres – and they appear alongside some emerging stars – Kieran Goss, Mikhail Karikis and Turin Brakes - in our most eclectic musical line-up ever.
As part of the Talks programme, Roy Hattersley reflects on the life of Lloyd George, while Philip Ziegler traces a photographic biography of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The Three Wise Men are revealed through the art they have inspired, and a panel of distinguished writers explores ‘What makes a Hero?’ in this modern age.
There are theatrical snapshots of Ian Dury, Enrico Caruso and Jane Austen, and a chance to dine ‘Fawlty Style’ with the reincarnated Basil, Sybil and Manuel. Wives of famous men throughout the ages come to life, and Marilyn Monroe’s dog even gets a look in … read the full programme to spot how!
From the opening night party with the Peatbog Faeries in Westgate Hall to the closing notes of Fauré’s Requiem in the Cathedral – it’s a packed programme of quality performances, exhibitions and activities to suit all ages and tastes. It may celebrate ‘the individual’, but it’s designed to appeal to everyone. Please read from cover to cover, book quickly and enjoy!
See you there!
Our thanks
Many thanks to our Funders, Sponsors, Trusts, Patrons and Partners, without whom the Festival would not be possible each year. Click here for direct email links through to our Supporters websites.
