Audience anticipation at the launch of Rye Arts Festival 2018 programme was heightened last Sunday July 22 by Alasdair Kitchen’s rendering of a Mozart sonata on the old Joanna piano at the Community Centre. He had his laptop propped in front of him as he sight-read the notes. The two major themes of this year’s Festival are the centenary of the signing of the armistice for the cessation of hostilities on the Western Front of World War 1 and the centenary of votes for women in 1918. The classical music offering was introduced by Alison Moncrieff-Kelly who has picked up the baton from Peter Brice, the Festival’s former music director. Alison said that she has pulled together world class performers and also some exceptionally talented young musicians.
Lighter notes would sound out on opening day, along with a tank battle in the Gungarden and other surprise events. There would be an element of fun, promised Chairman Mike Eve. Folk music will be well represented, with performances that Wayne Jones described as ‘blowing your socks off.’ There is music from around the world - Irish, Cajun and the sounds of the Congo from Mose Fan Fan and his band Somo Somo. There promises indeed to be something for everyone, celebrating the musical, literary, artistic and cinematic arts. Watch out for regular previews from Andy Stuart.
Photos: Kenneth Bird
