By Ryan Thompson
The Sun has officially come to the Rising Sun Arts Centre as they proudly announce their final line-up for their ‘Here Comes The Sun music and arts festival’ on August 11.
Rising Sun Arts Centre have got some brand new festival debuts to add this year’s proceedings, including Limpopo Groove with their own brand of Zimbabwean-inspired music. Plus, there’s the pulsing electronica of Tiger Mendoza, the moody storytelling of folk trio Little Red and a solo turn from Valeras frontwoman Katie King.
Returning to this year’s event for another turn are Nightjjar, who brings a whole new definition to “one-man band”, Natalie Wilcox, who wowed the crowds last year with her tap dancing and showtunes, and more anarchy from our very own Zap! comedy group. The Rising Sun Arts Centre also be highlighting some of their regular contributors, with a demonstration from the dancers from their Balboa Mondays class and a showcase for performers from their Open Page/Open Stage collaborative events. And if you keep your eyes peeled, you might just see some of Reading’s top improvise comedians!
The Rising Sun Arts Centre are also very pleased to announce that they’re once again partnering with their neighbours at Silver Street Studios who’ll be showcasing live session performances from the studio, streaming on Facebook Live throughout the day. And the centre will have some extra decorations this year, with unique art pieces from Reading University art graduates Jasper Stinchcombe and Alice Banfield.
This all adds up to what will be another fantastic festival, suitable for all the family. There’ll be loads of fun and activities for the kids in their unique and colourful artificial garden area, plenty of food and drink and the chance to chill out in Tape Club during the day and in their outdoor cinema at night. And Bob The Flint Giant will be around all day, too!
About the Rising Sun Arts Centre
The Rising Sun Arts Centre has been at the heart of community arts in Reading for over 25 years and is almost entirely staffed by volunteers. In 2016, the centre was recognised with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest award given to local volunteer groups across the UK, and this year was bestowed with the Outstanding Contribution to Culture at the Reading Cultural Awards, and the Team Recognition award at the Reading Volunteer Awards. Here Comes The Sun is a perfect way to celebrate creativity, participation and knowledge – the very ideals that The Rising Sun Arts Centre and its volunteers hold dear, and all proceeds from the event will be re-invested into the running of the centre.
Here Comes The Sun runs from 11am to 11pm. You can be part of the biggest house part of the summer for just £8 on the door – and children under 14 get in for free. For more information go to: www.wegottickets.com
