Thousands enjoy revamped Ludlow Arts Festival
The organisers of the revamped Ludlow Arts Festival have hailed the 'fantastic reaction' to the opening events – and pledged to return to the town next year.
Chart-topping 70s rockers 10cc and a Last Night of the Proms style concert, followed by a spectacular firework display, were watched by a combined crowd of thousands on a huge open air stage in the grounds of Ludlow Castle on Saturday and Sunday.
The Reduced Shakespeare Company continued the fun under the canopy of the Big Top Theatre with their performance of The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) last night.
Paul Merton and his Impro Chums are next on the stage at the Big Top tonight, with Britain's Got Talent finalists Circus of Horrors, comedian Reginald D Hunter, piano prodigy Young-Choon Park and female cabaret act Fascinating Aida also due to perform this week.
The nine-day festival will be concluded with two massive outdoor events at the weekend, with Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra performing on Saturday.
On Sunday, legendary bands The Hollies and The Searchers will perform before another fireworks display brings the event to a close.
Organiser Chris Davis said the opening weekend had been fantastic. He said: "We have had a fantastic reaction, all of the shows have gone down really well so far.
"10cc were awesome, the classical concert was amazing, and the fireworks were great. The Reduced Shakespeare Company also put on a great performance last night.
An early forecast for the weekend suggests a dry and cloudy Saturday and Sunday for the last two outdoor gigs. For information log on to www.ludlowartsfestival.co.uk
