A mix of: Music, Visual Arts, Literature, Film, Theatre, Dance, Comedy, Talks and Workshops, Carnival JOHN HEGLEY IS THE PATRON TO THE FESTIVAL Now in its seventh year, The Holloway Arts Festival (25 June to 5 July) returns with a packed 10-day programme featuring over 40 events. The festival showcases an exciting mix of music, visual arts, literature, cinema, theatre, dance, comedy and more. Many events are free and those with a charge offer excellent value for money. Your readers may be interested to hear about some highlights and new developments this year. Turner Prize-winning artist Rachel Whiteread, traditional Irish singer Nóirín Ní Riain, bestselling novelist Marina Lewycka, local author Charlie Higson, comedians Richard Herring and Dan Antopolski and acclaimed singer Sheila Chandra are just some of the guests appearing this year. As part of Reel Islington Screenings producer of the Oscar-winning documentary Man on Wire Simon Chinn will discuss his work. There'll also be the chance to learn how to make a film in one day. Award-winning playwright Diane Samuels will be running a writing workshop for adults and poet John Hegley, who has become the festival's new Patron, will also be appearing. The outdoor festival day, the Big Day Out in Whittington Park (4 July) will feature a spectacular carnival based on the theme of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, with amazing costumes made by children from local schools and a specially devised accompaniment composed by children from the Bridge School in collaboration with Drake Music. New this year is Archway Open House, during which artists will exhibit their work in local churches, cafes and businesses. There'll also be talks, tours of the exhibitions and workshops. Another first for this year's festival is the incorporation of Islington Dance Festival events, a new venture bringing together outstanding dancers including professional performers, local artists to those with special needs and disabilities. There's still time to enter our Urban Shots photography competition. There are cash prizes for winning photos on the theme of My Archway or My Holloway, as well as the chance to have your work exhibited during the festival at Islington Arts Factory. Visit www.therowanartsproject.com/urbanshots for competition details. Tickets and booking: Many events are free, some ticketed – various prices. Venues: various venues in Islington including Whittington Park 4 JulyTimes: Various Times . The full programme is available at www.hollowayartsfestival.co.uk. Whatever your interest, the festival will be a great chance to try out something new, have fun and meet your neighbours! |