Hailsham Festival of Arts and Culture Celebrates Another Successful Year

The Hailsham Festival of Arts and Culture has enjoyed another successful year, attracting audiences from across the region with an extensive programme showcasing the creativity and cultural talent of Hailsham and the wider area.

Taking place from 5 to 20 September, the festival brought together artists, performers and audiences from across the South East and beyond. The varied programme included live music, theatre, film, literature, visual arts, creative workshops, street entertainment and family activities, creating an engaging and vibrant atmosphere throughout the town.

Hailsham Town Council once again provided a £1,000 grant to support the festival. The funding helped organisers deliver a broad programme of events that celebrates the arts and makes an important contribution to the cultural life of the town.

This year’s theme, ‘The World Around Us’, encouraged audiences and participants to explore environmental awareness, sustainability and our connection with the natural world through a range of artistic and cultural experiences.

There was plenty for audiences of all ages to enjoy, with highlights including Murder on the Morlington Express, an interactive murder mystery supper; a screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show; The Music of Paul Simon, performed by the Brighton Beach Boys; Henry VIII, starring Tony Harris; and the return of the popular Volya Voices Ukrainian Choir.

History enthusiasts were invited to explore the fascinating subject of Death by Chocolate: Some Victorian Female Poisoners, while families could enjoy puppet performances and workshops presented by Cable Street Cats Puppet Theatre.

The programme also featured a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party Quiz in aid of Demelza Hospice Care for Children, children’s art and creative writing competitions, a family clay modelling workshop, a Book and Author Fair and poetry events hosted by the Downlands Poets.

Cllr Anne Marie Ricketts, Chair of the Town Council’s Communities Committee, said: “This year’s festival created a fantastic atmosphere across Hailsham, with an impressive range of events offering something for people of all ages and interests. It was particularly pleasing to see residents and visitors coming together to enjoy performances, exhibitions, workshops and activities throughout the town.”

“The theme, ‘The World Around Us’, provided an excellent opportunity to explore important issues through creativity and culture, while the wider programme demonstrated the extraordinary variety of talent and enthusiasm within our community.”

“The positive response from audiences reflects the hard work and dedication of everyone involved. I would like to congratulate the festival organisers and thank the artists, performers, volunteers, community groups and venues who helped bring such a diverse programme to life.”

Cllr Ricketts added: “The arts play an important role in creating opportunities for people to connect, learn, express themselves and take pride in their town. Hailsham’s Festival of Arts and Culture continues to make a valuable contribution to our local cultural life, and I look forward to seeing it develop further in the years ahead.”

Hailsham Town Council extends its thanks to all the volunteers, community groups, performers, artists and individuals who contributed to the festival. Their time, creativity and commitment helped make this year’s event a memorable celebration of arts and culture in Hailsham.