We are thrilled to announce that SO Festival has been recognised as one of the top 10 free festivals in the UK by the renowned publication, The Guardian. This prestigious accolade is a testament to the incredible artistic talent, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive spirit that our festival embodies. We are delighted to be featured alongside other remarkable events in the country and here's what they had to say:
“This twin-venue street theatre festival takes place in the Tower Gardens, Skegness, and Sherwood Fields, Mablethorpe. This year’s line-up is still to be finalised, but last year’s featured a spray-painting robot who created a giant mural of people’s faces; dance shows in fountains and on football fields; and a one-man show involving cooking, drumming, and playing the organ at the same time. As well as professional performers, there is a community stage for local talent, an activity zone with free workshops and a pop-up town square for discussions. Skegness, 16-17 June, and Mablethorpe, 18 June, sofestival.org” – Rachel Dixon, The Guardian, Wed 31 May 2023.
For the full article, please visit The Guardian’s website here.
A Well-Deserved Recognition:
The Guardian’s recent article titled “10 of the best free festivals in the UK” highlights the diversity and quality of festivals across the nation, and we are proud to have secured a place on this esteemed list. This recognition reaffirms our commitment to providing exceptional cultural experiences to audiences of all ages, backgrounds, and interests.
The Magic of SO Festival:
This twin-venue street theatre festival takes place in the picturesque Tower Gardens, Skegness, and Sherwood Fields, Mablethorpe. Last year’s lineup wowed audiences with a spray-painting robot creating a giant mural of people’s faces, mesmerising dance shows in fountains and on football fields, and a captivating one-man show featuring cooking, drumming, and playing the organ simultaneously. Alongside professional performers, our festival proudly showcases local talent on the community stage, offers free workshops in the activity zone, and provides a pop-up town square for discussions.
Impact on Lincolnshire:
SO Festival has become an integral part of Lincolnshire’s cultural landscape, captivating both locals and visitors alike. Our festival not only entertains but also serves as a catalyst for economic growth, promoting tourism and supporting local businesses. We are grateful for the continuous support from our partners, including Magna Vitae Trust for Leisure & Culture, Arts Council England, and East Lindsey District Council, who have played a vital role in making our festival a resounding success.
Looking to the Future:
Being recognised as one of the top free festivals in the UK motivates us to continue raising the bar and delivering unforgettable experiences for our audience. As we gear up for the upcoming edition of SO Festival, we are excited to showcase an even more exceptional lineup of talent, stunning performances, and immersive artistic installations. Stay tuned for further updates and announcements as we count down to another remarkable celebration of outdoor arts.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to The Guardian for featuring SO Festival among the top 10 free festivals in the UK. This recognition serves as a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of our team, artists, volunteers, and the supportive community that has embraced our festival with open arms. We invite you all to join us in the festivities and experience the magic of SO Festival first hand. Let’s come together and celebrate the arts in a way that is accessible, inclusive, and truly remarkable.
For the full article, please visit The Guardian’s website here.
About SO Festival:
SO Festival is an internationally acclaimed outdoor arts extravaganza in Lincolnshire, offering a carefully curated program of innovative art and entertainment. With a blend of local and international talent, the festival aims to inspire, entertain, and bring communities together.
Brought to you by Magna Vitae Trust for Leisure & Culture, with funding support from Arts Council England and East Lindsey District Council, SO Festival is committed to making the arts accessible to all. As an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation and strategic partner to East Lindsey District Council, Magna Vitae Trust for Leisure and Culture is dedicated to enriching the cultural landscape of Lincolnshire.
In addition to our key partners, which include The Embassy Theatre Skegness, West Lindsey District Council, Newark & Sherwood District Council, PASSAGE Festival, Helsingør Teater, County Care, UK New Artists, Rights Community Action, Writing East Midlands, Women*s Action Forum, Natural England, Lincolnshire County Council, Outdoor Arts UK, and Skegness Aquarium, SO Festival invites people of all ages and backgrounds to come together, explore the transformative power of art, and create lasting memories.
So, gather your loved ones, invite your friends, and spread the excitement about #SOFestival2023. Let’s come together on the East Coast and revel in the boundless beauty of outdoor arts and entertainment.
Magna Vitae Trust for Leisure and Culture is an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation and strategic partner to East Lindsey District Council. Other key partners for SO Festival 2023 are Embassy Theatre Skegness, PASSAGE Festival, Helsingør Teater, OutdoorArtsUK & County Care.
For more information, explore sofestival.org, sign up to our newsletter and follow SO Festival on social media.
