The village will be alive with the sound of music during the Feast Festival (13th-23rd September 2019).
Genres galore, all ages, professional and amateur, the Festival will showcase the immense and diverse musical talents of Haddenham.
Open Mic Night – a new event for Haddenham
We kick off with a new event, an 'Open Mic' night in the Kings Head. Open to everyone, this is a late night, Friday social event for relaxing at the end of a long hard week, to play music with friends old and new. Whether this group meets again will be down to those attending. The Feast Festival has created this opportunity in response to requests from musicians in the village, particularly for those who commute to work. But it will be down to the community whether this idea takes root, and becomes a new Haddenham tradition.
More traditional forms of music are also on show during Feast Festival week. Witchert Chorale have two separate performances, both free. One of their events is an open rehearsal, where you can come just to enjoy, or join in. Followed later in the week by a family friendly concert in St Mary's Church. You are also welcome to attend a rehearsal of the Thame Children's Choir at Haddenham Junior School.
There is a 'West End' theme to the Opening Saturday, with a children's singing workshop led by West End Star Alice Fearn. Alice will then join local string quartet Masquerade for a celebration of the greatest show songs from stage and screen. Capped off with an audience participation screening of cult movie 'Rocky Horror Picture Show'.
Haddenham's Ukelele Musos are hosting an open event for players of all abilities. The immensely popular local musicians' social group 'The Vibe Acoustic Cafe' is having a special evening in the Village Hall, open to all. And you will also be able to relax in the Village Orchard to an early evening of cool Acoustic Jazz – bring your own picnic.
Rock in the Village Hall brings some hi-tempo contemporary music to Haddenham, and provides an opportunity for local young bands to get the experience of playing before a live audience as a supporting band to the main act. Any young bands interested should post a video or audio file to the Feast Festival Facebook page.
During the Festival's final evening community meal, local musicians will be playing background music. All this ahead of the Village Ceilidh, featuring a guest appearance by Katy Carr, who will take us on a nostalgic trip of well-known sing-a-long songs.
And don't be surprised if you see busking musicians pop up around the village from time to time. Haddenham villagers volunteering to bring music to the streets, and a smile to your face.
For details of all the musical events, and to see what else is going on, please visit and follow the Feast Festival's Facebook page. Some events have limited spaces. To reserve your free place or buy a ticket, please visit the online booking page.
Roy Payne, Communications Lead, Feast Festival 2019
