Organisers of the Harrogate International Youth Festival – Music and Performing Arts, embraced the 40th anniversary theme with a full-house launch; 40 days ahead of the eagerly anticipated Easter event.
A host of Harrogate dignitaries, including local councillors, Knaresborough Lions, Harrogate Rotarians, friends of the Festival and committee members attended the launch to celebrate the start of the countdown to the 2013 programme, which is set to be the biggest in recent years.
The evening was a marked with a sparkling drinks and canapés reception at the stunning Mercer Gallery where there was an electric atmosphere thanks to musical accompaniment from Brace Yourselves; a Year 10 Jazz sextet from St Aidan’s High School.
To mark the 40th anniversary, a commemorative cake was unveiled which was designed by Bettys cake decorator Alison McCabe, who performed at the Festival during her school years between 1978-1984.
Guests heard from the Festival Director Lena Stenger, the Mayor of Harrogate and John Greep and Neil Richmond, Founders of the Festival. The focus was on this event’s rich history and how it will be taken forward as a landmark event on the region’s cultural calendar.
Lena Stenger, commented:
We are so looking forward to Easter 2013 as this year’s international groups promise a wonderful mix of music styles and performance experiences that will complement, beautifully, the local talent we have on offer. This milestone event is set to deliver another exciting year of music and memories for participants and audience members.
BOX OFICE NOW OPEN: For tickets please call 01423 502116 or email boxoffice@harrogatetheatre.co.uk
For more information please visit www.hiyf.co.uk or call 0844 858 1545.
