Could you organise a literary festival?

Sophie Neville opening the Tavistock Festival

Three million cheers for those organising the 15th Tavistock Music and Arts Festival. The prize-winning market town in Devon has been treated to fabulous concerts, exhibitions, dramatic and literary events every April and May for the last fifteen years, show-casing composers, musicians, artists and authors.

Christopher Kirwin, Chairman of the Festival, told listeners on BBC Radio Devon that it's a good thing he is retired as the festival takes a considerable amount of of his time but the rewards are many.

Sophie Neville with the Chairman of the Tavistock Festival 2018

I was thrilled to be invited to talk about my book on 'The Making of Swallows and Amazons (1974)' and meet those who love the original film after it was screened at The Wharf Cinema where we held a Q&A. For further details on what we got up to, please click here.

We were so grateful for media coverage and the support of enthusiastic audiences. It was a real opportunity to meet readers and those working in the Tavistock Library who hosted some of the workshops and events that visitors to Dartmoor and those who live in the west country were taking part in. The Tavistock Festival continues until 5th May and will hopefully be held again next year. Please click here for the online brochure.

Last night, at the Bedford Hotel, was the opening of the Alan Bennett Play Readings, with Supper. It was a sell-out. Two monologues from 'Talking Heads' were performed, as ostaged, rehearsed, readings, with costume, furniture and musical accompaniment by the brilliant Peggy Salmon. They were very funny and also very moving! The readings are happening again tonight, at the Old Chapel, Calstock. 

The final chance to watch and listen to these beautifully performed readings, by members of The Tavonians Theatre Company, will be on Saturday May 5th at The Bedford Hotel, at 7.00pm for 7.30pm. This will also be the venue for the Arthur Ransome Writing Competition prize giving.

On Friday 4th of May, Peter Cigleris, accompanied by Martin Cousin (pianoforte) will be giving a clarinet presentation, at St Eustachius' Tavistock's Parish Church, Bedford Square.

On Bank Holiday Monday, also in the church, there will be a day-long Choral Workshop, directed by Julian Jensen, followed by tea, at the Bedford Hotel (£10). The Work-Shop presentation, is at 6.00pm, which is followed by a retiring collection. For further details of the work-shop please contact Julian Jensen on 01822 813162 or email music@mountkelly.com after 6.00pm.  At 7.30pm that evening, there will be a 'Battle of the Bands' - music from local youth musicians, at The Wharf, Arts Centre. For more details, about this, please also contact Julian Jensen (see above). Tickets: £5 (students £2).

Could you organise a festival in your home town? It could make a difference and uplift the lives of many.