Colsterworth Festival of Performing Arts marks its 27th year

A performing arts festival concluded last weekend after its 27th year of being held.

The Colsterworth Festival of Performing Arts, held from February 13 until February 26, took place across various venues displaying talent from sectors including music, dance, film and drama.

The number of those performing this year doubled compared to last year as it was the first full festival back after Covid lockdown.

Julia Kerby, chair of the festival, said: “It went really really well, as always.

“We’ve not had a bad one in 27 years. To see how it has grown in the 27 years is amazing.”

The festival showcases talent of any age and ability.

The dance showcase was held at Grantham College from February 13 until February 17.

On Friday, the schools showcase was held at The Meres Leisure Centre and the film part was held at the Sir Isaac Newton Memorial Hall in Colsterworth.

The final part of the festival, which took place on Saturday and Sunday was the music and drama section.

This was held at three venues including the Methodist Church in Colsterworth, Colsterworth Primary School and the Isaac Newton Memorial Hall.

For Julia, the highlight was the film section of the festival as it had not formed part of the previous events.

She said: “Although it was the smallest part, the film was my highlight because I loved that evening.

“It was such a relaxed evening. All of the films played for the audiences, all of the kids got popcorn and it was exactly like a cinema.”

Plans are already under way for next year’s festival with some of the venues already booked.

Julia and others involved are also looking to see how the festival can improve as “we’re not going to sit back and do the same thing every year”, she said.

Music students from Rock Vox Academy, based in Grantham, also competed in the festival and a number achieved first and second places in their music classes.

Hayley Chapman, vocal coach and owner of the music academy, said: “I’m extremely proud of all my singers who took part in the festival – getting up and performing is a big thing to do.

“They did excellently, coming first, second and third in various categories and for some of them it was their first time performing.

“It was a wonderful experience enjoyed by all and we look forward to going back next year.”

On Sunday, March 26, the music festival will be holding its 25th anniversary concert at Walton Academy, off Harlaxton Road.

This concert was originally supposed to be held during the pandemic, but was postponed.

This concert will display all of the talent performed during the festival.