WARWICK Folk Festival returns with a heavyweight line up from around the world.
The festival, now in its 38th year, takes place at Warwick School and the surrounding town, from July 21 to 24.
Headliners include The Unthanks and Show of Hands.
The Unthanks, winners of Best Album in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards this year, play on the Thursday night. Nominated for the Mercury Music Prize and the only British folk representation in The Guardian’s and Uncut’s best albums of last decade, The Unthanks is a family affair – led by Tyneside sisters Rachel and Becky Unthank.
Show of Hands, themselves not strangers to awards, headline the following night. The duo of Steve Knightley and Phil Beer are known for their incisive songwriting and sell out Albert Hall gigs.
Another gifted songwriter, Bob Fox is best known as the Songman from the West End hit War Horse, and there will be several chances to see his Songs from the Show throughout the festival weekend.
Le Vent du Nord brings their Québécois charm to Warwick on the Sunday, with a Songlines Music nomination and a new album. The Canadian quartet will bring the curtain down on the festival.
Festival director Dick Dixon is looking forward to another successful festival: “This year’s festival really has got something for everyone and tickets are selling better than ever. As well as festival favourites such as Show of Hands, we’ve got a fabulous dance line up, both dance teams and ceilidhs, including local hero Will Pound and his Ceilidh Band and a great range of workshops including the return of our Saturday Dance Academy. If you’ve also wanted to try a new instrument or dance step – here’s your chance.”
This year’s packed programme of events offers a huge choice of concerts, ceilidhs, workshops, a Craft & Music Fair and a Food, Real Ale & Cider Festival and even wine and prosecco bar. With circus skills, craft workshops and street theatre shows, there is something for all the family to enjoy. There is also a vast array of colourful dance displays, pub music sessions and open air concerts in the historic town centre.
Visitors to the festival can choose from Friday – Sunday tickets, Thursday – Sunday tickets or just visit for the day, plus under 10s go free. Tickets can be booked online and over the phone at the Bridge House Theatre Box Office.
Visit www.warwickfolkfestival.co.uk for further details.
