The historic setting of Norwich Cathedral comes alive with the sights, sounds and sensations of the arts for the annual Hostry Festival
Bringing together a wonderful programme showcasing local, national and international music, theatre, art, discussion and debate, The Hostry Festival returns to Norwich Cathedral this month.
Now in its ninth year, the festival grew out of a collaboration between old friends Stash Kirkbride and Peter Barrow, who put on a one-off play at the cathedral's then newly opened Hostry venue. Such was its success, they set about developing a multi arts festival in and around the setting, with Peter Beck and Rebecca Chapman coming on board to create the festival team.
This year's programme once again features a fascinating mix of performances and celebrates the best in local talent and the importance of the arts within the community. The central production will see Stash Kirkbride directing a version of Terry Johnson's West End hit - and cult 1967 film - The Graduate, bringing together a cast of some of Norfolk's best actors, complete with the iconic original soundtrack by Simon & Garfunkel.
A key part of the Hostry Festival will be the Norfolk Arts Awards on October 18, an annual celebration of creative talent across the county. Made up of a host of awards covering all aspects of the arts, the gala event will be held this year at St George's Theatre, Great Yarmouth. Norwich Paint Out, launched at the Hostry Festival in 2014, is now a major part of Norfolk's artistic scene and this year, events have spread across the county and have been held throughout the year with the Paint Out Gardens Series. This will culminate in an exhibition of the artists' work at The Hostry during the festival.
Our Hostry Festival highlights
For a full programme and ticket information see hostryfestival.org
- The Telephone
October 19, 7.30pm
A comic opera by Gian Carlo Menotti, starring Lisa Cassidy and Mark Saberton, The Telephone tells the amusing tale of Ben and Lucy and a series of attempted marriage proposals and endless interruptions. £15
- Christine Webber and Helen McDermott in conversation
October 24, 1pm
A double act since they first met as Anglia TV presenters 40 years ago, friends and festival patrons Christine and Helen will share anecdotes and discuss Christine's writing career, both in non-fiction as a psychotherapist, and fiction as author of three novels. £12
- Susan Hampshire: in conversation with festival director Stash Kirkbride
October 27, 3pm
One of Britain's best-loved actresses, Susan Hampshire will discuss her award-winning career in film, television and theatre, and her work with various charities. £15
- Bettany Hughes - A tale of three cities: Istanbul
October 26, 2pm
Award-winning historian, author and broadcaster Bettany Hughes draws on the rich and varied political and social history of Istanbul to tell the city's extraordinary 6,000 year story. £15
- Tankus the Henge/Skyhook
October 27, 7.30pm
This standing only, double bill of live music brings together two acts certain to get everyone on their feet. Tankus the Henge are renowned for their spectacular live performances and carnival sound bringing together R&B, funk and disco, while Skyhook blend rock, Americana and a little bit of jazz. £15.
