What’s on at this year’s Wirksworth Festival

This year’s event takes place from 10th-26th September. Derbyshire Life looks at what’s in store

Now in its 21st year, Wirksworth Festival is renowned for its thrilling presentations of contemporary culture and visual arts. 2015 promises to be no exception; aptly named ‘Transformations’, this year’s diverse line-up of artists and performers is sure to awaken the senses with breathtaking displays of theatre, art, music and dance.

One of the festival’s biggest annual highlights is the Art and Architecture Trail – an exclusive opportunity for visitors to browse and buy a range of classic and contemporary artwork amidst the backdrop of Wirksworth’s charming buildings. Once again, the Contemporary Visual Arts Programme will include a presentation of work from internationally respected artists; with a range of different styles on display, promising to enlighten, reveal and expand horizons.

Theatrical highlights include a magical collaboration from storyteller Xanthe Gresham Knight and musician Arash Moradi, which offers the chance to escape into a world of Persian mythology, romance and adventure – a captivating show for children and adults alike.

From a musical perspective, performances from reggae band Jungle Lion and Afro-Celtic group Baka Beyond combine with the 16th century folk music of local musicians Deadmen’s Folk, to offer something to suit all tastes. Also returning this year is the Fringe Festival, which is set to include a book launch, theatre, film and even a burlesque workshop, plus a diverse range of activities.

To complement all of this, the Graduate Showcase comprises a stimulating range of images and sculptures created by students from Derby, Loughborough, Nottingham Trent and Staffordshire universities.

The festivities come to an impressive conclusion during the Community Celebration, which includes a special treasure trail around Wirksworth, involving some of the town’s best-loved artists, singers, dancers and actors.w

For further details visit www.wirksworthfestival.co.uk. Tickets can be purchased via the festival website, from the Festival Box Office at Traid Links, Wirksworth, or by contacting 01629 824393.

Highlights

Weekends Art Exhibition, Parish Room

12th-13th Art and Architecture Trail

16th Talkin’ Bob Dylan: Illustrated talk by John Lindley, Town Hall, 6pm

16th Project Jam Sandwich: Dynamic mix of instruments and genres, Town Hall, 8pm

18th Jose’s Salsa Party, Town Hall, 8pm

19th Jungle Lion: Ska and reggae band, Town Hall, 8.30pm

22nd Camera Obscura: Dance theatre, Town Hall, 8pm

23rd A Thousand Empty Glasses: Short films, Northern Light Cinema, 7.30pm

24th The Shahnameh: The Epic Book of Kings, with Xanthe Gresham Knight, Town Hall, 8pm

24th Deadmen’s Folk: Adam Summerhayes and Murray Grainger, Town Hall, 8pm

25th Matt Ratcliffe and Corey Mwamba, Town Hall, 9.30pm