Purbeck Arts Week 20 May - 5 June 2011

Purbeck art weeks festival all singing and and dancing for 2011

Purbeck will have its own fully fledged Arts Festival in 2011 - from 20th May to 5th June. The Purbeck Art Weeks (PAW) Festival builds on the success of previous Purbeck Arts Weeks. Many will be familiar with the little blue signs dotting the Purbeck landscape, tempting people down unlikely country lanes, to working studios where painters, printmakers, film makers, sculptors, ceramists, illustrators, jewellers and photographers display their work and are often on hand to offer advice. A major group exhibition of over sixty artists takes place at Rollington Barn.

In 2011 the Festival will include a greatly expanded programme of evening events, including concerts, illustrated talks, films, poetry, dance and drama.  The Festival Fringe which is centred in the big tent at the famous Square and Compass pub, in Worth Matravers will offer a great range of music from rock to classical, cabaret, stand up comedy,  poetry slam etc.

Poole born Natalie Clein, the world famous cellist, will play in a range of locations with other world-class artists. She recently gave a wonderful recital at the lovely Priory Hotel in Wareham where she played a special “cello sweet” as in the attached picture. Members of the Gabrieli Consort and musicians and dancers from Trinity Laban conservatoire for music and dance will also feature. There will also be workshops for budding players of all ages on the ukulele and cello as well as community art prizes on offer.

Festival events co-organiser Richard Brown said: "We are absolutely delighted that Natalie Clein is our visiting artistic director and will bring other world-class artists to Purbeck. PAW has for many years promoted local arts, and last year we decided to offer some fringe and evening activities. This was such a success that we are expanding these events and there should be something for everyone, visitors and the local community alike.  The PAW Festival will help put Purbeck firmly on the UK map for the arts!”

For further programme details visit www.purbeckartweeks.co.uk