Our local Stokey line up included comedian John Hegley, community choir Chorus of Dissent and their orchestra Elastic Band, comedian Fran Isherwood, close harmony duo Gaga Ladies, poet Andrew James Brown, singer/guitarist Kid Kirby and whirling dancing and folk group Shkembe Soup.
It was our first midsummer festival with an outdoor stage and was such a success that it’s here to stay. Says conductor Ruth Whitehead: “Our Dissenting mix on Glyndebourne and Glasto showcases and celebrates local talent, while fundraising for community projects. Held in the secret garden at St Matthias Church (Stokey’s only Grade 1 listed building, but on the Buildings at Risk register) we perform right next to the lovely structure we seek to restore and refurbish. See you again next summer!”
Says priest of St Matthias Father David Lambert: “St Matthias Church is delighted at the magnificent support from the Stokebourne festival which has contributed significantly to our £30,000 lighting appeal, and given us the opportunity to show off our beautiful church to a whole new audience.”
St Matthias hasn’t been rewired since it was refurbished after being bombed in the war. The fundraising is well on course to provide new electrics and lighting. Click here to make a donation.
