Organisers ‘blown away’ by Royston Arts Festival success

More than 4,000 visitors turned out to enjoy a bumper Royston Arts Festival at the weekend.

The festival – which was organised by Creative Royston – saw activities, performances, workshops and exhibitions all on the theme of ‘voyages of discovery’.

Kicking off on Friday, festival-goers enjoyed a host of events at Curwens Gallery, the library, Royston Town Hall, Sycamore House, Royston’s district museum, the methodist church and more.

On Saturday afternoon the community arts event drew the crowds to Priory Memorial Gardens with visitors enjoying crafting with Glazed Creations, stories with the Yarnsmith of Norwich and his Minstrel Extraordinaire, and Give Brass a Go workshops with Royston Town Band.

There were also performances from Royston Town Development Band, Crystalites Majorettes, Gog Magog Molly and a very special performance by the first schools – which brought together 50 pupils from the town and surrounding villages.

In addition, there were dance workshops with DanceMatters and BEEE Creative – and a special visit from a galaxy far, far away in the form of Star Wars characters Chewbacca and a stormtrooper.

On Sunday, MusicFest Extra saw a further two free concerts taking place at Banyers House and The Old Courthouse.

This year also saw the film festival – in association with Herts and Beds Cinema Club – touring surrounding villages with films being screened alongside guest speakers.

Creative Royston chairperson Kirsten Grimmer said: “Once again Royston Arts Festival has been welcomed with open arms by the community and I have been blown away by the support.

“I am very proud of all the volunteers involved on the Creative Royston committee and over the weekend. They put so much time and heart into it, this is what really makes the festival special.

“Priory Memorial Gardens came alive on Saturday for our Community Arts Event and had a lovely buzz throughout the afternoon.

“It was a real joy to see so many happy faces on children and adults alike!”

The fun culminated with a finale concert at Royston’s parish church. Attendees were treated to music and singing by Royston’s town band, choral society and youth choir, and Royston Schools Academy Trust students.