Top classical stars at Newport music festival
A new classical music festival featuring top performers from around the country will be held in the county, it has been revealed.
Proms and Prosecco in the Park will be held at Chetwynd Deer Park on the outskirts of Newport on September 9 to coincide with the Last Night of the Proms at London's Royal Albert Hall.
Organisers are remaining tight-lipped about the musicians that will perform, but have said there will be an opportunity for some local acts to play.
The idea is the brainchild of Esther Wright and Sarah Lewis, who said the aim was to make classical music "accessible to everyone" and added it would be a day out aimed at families.
Tickets will go on sale online tomorrow. It is one of the first events the pair have announced since founding their own classical and live music events company Fizz Festivals Ltd.
Plans are also in the pipeline for a Christmas-themed event on the Shropshire/Staffordshire border later in the year.
Gates will open for the Proms and Prosecco event at 2pm and live music will be played between 4pm and 9pm.
There will be activities for children and people will be encouraged to have picnics.
Ms Wright said: "We wanted to make classical music accessible to everyone.
"It will be held in a beautiful setting and will be something for the whole family to enjoy.
"It will be a platform for a few local acts to perform on a big stage, but will mostly be national acts.
"We have got choirs and classical musicians lined up for the day." Both Ms Wright and Miss Lewis have substantial experience arranging major events.
Ms Wright said: "Sarah and I are both extremely passionate about creating fabulous events that appeal to all generations in our home counties of Shropshire and Staffordshire.
"We create unique experiences – magical musical events which bring together the best of local food and drink producers.
"We provide a platform for local musicians to perform alongside well-known names from the music industry, all in stunning locations, creating an event to remember.
"A lot of people in Newport have to travel to such events. Many go to Birmingham or Manchester to enjoy classical music.
"We are trying to bring it a bit closer to home and give people the chance to enjoy classical music in a relaxed setting."
It adds to an already busy social calendar in Newport. The town is preparing for its St George's Day preparations in the coming weeks, the annual carnival will be held on June 10 and preparations are moving into full swing for Newport Show, which will be held on July 8.
For more information, visit fizzfestivals.com
