More than 40 keen and curious people attended our meeting on 2 March to hear more about the Festival. Members of the Festival Team introduced themselves and we shared news of some of the theatre companies, performers and entertainers we hope to welcome to the city over the June weekend.

Representing the Festival’s main sponsor, Wolseley, the meeting was attended by Linda Graham, Head of Application Delivery.  Linda met Festival Directors Ian Holloway and Katie Scott along with the rest of the Festival Team and joined other residents, community representatives and theatre enthusiasts who were signing up to help out at the Festival and to perform alongside professional acts as part of the programme of events over the weekend. Also in attendance were representatives of some of the Festival’s venues and partners. These included Ripon Arts Hub, Ripon Library, Ripon Workhouse Museum and Ripon Together along with the new Ripon Business Improvement District, represented by BID Board Director, John Alder.

Volunteer Co-ordinator, Tina Salden spoke at the event, saying: “There are many roles for volunteers to help out as stewards and marshalls or to serve refreshments, look after visiting artists or direct visitors and audiences. Help is also needed ahead of the Festival with publicity around the region to ensure that the events are enjoyed by as many people as possible.” Anyone who missed the meeting, but who wants to get involved can contact info@ripontheatrefestival.org.