This exciting festival offers a wide range of unique spectacles! From comedy and music to talks and guided walks, it's a family-friendly celebration of the arts, right on your doorstep.
The Canterbury Festival has officially been running since October 1984, although its origins can be traced back to 1928, when a landmark theatrical production was staged inside Canterbury Cathedral. Provoking debate at the time, the performance marked a cultural shift in Canterbury's arts scene. It demonstrated how the arts can be used to push boundaries and challenge social norms, a principle that the Canterbury Festival continues to embrace today.
This long-standing tradition of performances in the Cathedral continues in this year's festival. From 20 to 24 October, the wonderfully quirky Australian ensemble Circa will be performing an acrobatic marvel. They're a contemporary circus company that dazzles audiences with a unique blend of acrobatics, gymnastics and dance. Circa's Eternity promises an unforgettable performance, with ticket availability listed through the Canterbury Festival's events programme.
The Cathedral is also showcasing musical performances, a notable one being Britten Sinfonia's Surround Sound Playlist on 27 October. Showcasing music from Allegri and Prokofiev, among many others, this immersive experience is perfect for lovers of classical music.
The festival hosts celebrations all over the city! Guided walks for history lovers are also part of the programme, offering opportunities to explore Canterbury's fascinating past. From the city's historic streets to stories of its wartime history, these walks provide a wonderful opportunity to discover more about the people and places that have shaped the area.
The programme is also brimming with theatrical, family-friendly experiences, such as The Bubble Show® at the Great Hall, Kent College, on 29 October. Performed by The Highland Joker, a Guinness World Record holder, this vibrant and captivating production promises an extraordinary showcase. Family Takeover at the Malthouse Theatre on 31 October also offers engaging workshops and performances for children of all ages.
This two-week extravaganza serves as a reminder of the vital role the arts play in our community. It encourages young people to express themselves creatively and explore the world inquisitively. Visit the Canterbury Festival events page to discover the full programme and book your tickets.
