The Festival is nearly here!

Well it's nearly here.....were in the final stretches before the festival begins! keep a look out for programmes that will be available soon so you can keep a check on the events you want to put in your diary. This year is not to be missed, with a mixture of art, music and even tree climbing!!!!! There's something for everyone!

Gilbert and Sullivan Karaoke

Come along to St Thomas' Church on Friday 9th July at 7pm to have a good old sing along to the music of Gilbert and Sullivan! To nervous to sing? don't worry, refreshments will be available to help you loosen up those vocal chords!!!!!!!!!

Barber shop singers!

Keep an eye out on Tuesday 6th July on your travels to and from the island on the Wightlink Fast Cat from Ryde pier head..............Barber shop singers....what more can I say, you could be in for a treat!

HOMEGROWN II

The surreal discussed basement of a former Wesleyan chapel plays host to a two week residency by 4 contemporary artists to create an immersive environment. Lisa Traxler, Adrienne Wroath and Steven Sales will collaboratively create 3D imagined landscape from paper and fabric whilst sound artist Ergo Phizmiz will form an accompanying audio soundscape. Developed over two weeks the site specific work will see techniques and ideas sourced from individual practices collied and evolve through engagement and questioning to create something truly new and innovative. Facilitated and curated by Lauren Fry.

Open all day for the duration of the festival.

Pathway Over the Sea

Tim Johnson to create new installation for Ryde Arts Festival!

Pathway Over the Sea

Taking inspiration from the Isle of Wight's coastal heritage artist Tim Johnson, is creating a new installation commissioned especially for the Ryde Arts Festival. Using local and sustainably sourced natural materials Tim will explore the structure and symbolism of pier architecture.
Tim is based on the Isle of Wight, his work encompasses sculpture, painting, basketry and photography and he has exhibited extensively in the UK and abroad.

Exhibition opens Sunday 4 July- Saturday 10 from 11am-7pm

Don't miss out on seeing this exclusive exhibition!

Lydia Fleming to perform for Ryde Arts Festival

Lydia was born on the Isle of Wight and it was here where she discovered her passion for singing. She sang with local music centres and churches and it was whilst studying at school that she was awarded with a vocal scholarship to fund her singing lessons. She later went on to complete an honors degree at Colchester Institute of Music and Performing Arts. She is now currently coming to the end of her Post Graduate course at Trinity College of Music. Lydia has performed in many concerts and is currently rehearsing for the role of Florence in Britten's opera 'Albert Herring'.

We are delighted to have such a talented Mezzo Soprano performing for the festival this year and look forward to the recital that will include a mixture of opera and jazz.

Don't miss out on this evening of beautiful music which will be held on Thursday 8th July at St. Thomas Heritage Centre.

Goodleaf Tree Climbing to join Arts Festival line up!

Goodleaf Tree Climbing is to join us in our events programme this year on Sunday the 4th July. This is an exciting day out for all the family so we hope that you put your comfy shoes on and get on down to Appley so that you can start climbing those trees and take in spectacular views!

Sunday 4th July Launch of Seaside Tree Climbing inc other tree-y events with Goodleaf and Gift to Nature 11am - 4pm
Reach new heights in 2010! Enjoy the unique experience of tree climbing with ropes and harnesses.
Climb to 60ft and take in the stunning views of Appley Park and the Solent. Ages 10 & over, book in
advance or turn up & climb (if space available). One hour per climb. Please wear sensible shoes.
Tel 0333 800 1188 or email info@goodleaf.co.uk
Location: Oak tree between Appley Tower and play park Cost £10 per person

The Countdown begins!

Well everybody, it's that time of year again, Ryde Arts Festival is nearly upon us!
Were hoping that this year will be bigger and better than ever before. We already have great things lined up in this years ten day festival, and are also adding lots more exciting things for people to watch and take part in. So whatever your age make sure you keep the ten days free in your diary as were sure there will be something you will want to take part in!
If you have anything you would like to see happening in the Arts Festival weeks just let us know by posting your ideas on our blog page. It's easy to do and we always welcome fresh new ideas to keep Ryde Arts Festival exciting, don't be disappointed if your ideas don't make an appearance in this years Festival, they may well appear next year!!!
So guys, don't forgot to jot down 2nd-11th July 2010 in your diary.
Ryde Arts Festival, HERE WE COME!!!!!!