Folk music showcased at Penkhull festival

Stoke of Genius:

Stoke-on-Trent's first folk festival for over 20 years was well received by the hundreds of attendees.

Penkhull Folk Week was the talk of the village as locals rejoiced with musical celebrations.

The nine-day event from Penkhull Community Events featured 30 local, national and international acts consisting of roughly 150 performers between March 16-24.

Artist Organiser Greg Stephens spoke to Stoke of Genius: "We're very pleased with how it went as we managed to fill all but one of the dozen pub gigs. It was hit by snow at the end but we pulled
through it.

"We gave a very broad take on folk. We kept to performers who would describe themselves as folk but essentially the backbone was good singer/songwriter's."

Local acts performing included Claire Brennan, The Slippery Hill Boys and Headsticks.

Greg, also apart of performing group The Boat Band, added: "The last few years there was the Jazz and Blues Festival, which ended up being more about drinking. So this year we thought 'lets have a music festival which is a bit more musical and book bands for their musical ability'."

The majority of acts were paid to play during the week, although some were happy to perform for free.

"We had some quite serious artists who were 100% behind the festival who said they're not bothered about the money," added Greg.

"We like to give everyone an opportunity because there are folkies who are 18 are there are some in their 80's. It's really opened my ears to what's going on in the city.

"We had an incredibly favourable perception. Judging by the fact that most of the pub gigs were crammed with people they would be fools not to do it again next year!"

As well as three ticketed events and a dance display, the Penkhull Village Hall also held various workshops and a craft fair.

People of all ages gathered to attend events throughout the week, although cancellations meant less children were able to attend.

Andrew Tranter of Headsticks said: "It was a pleasure to be asked to play at Penkhull Folk week, and as expected, it was a great experience.

"Busy venue with an enthusiastic crowd, all up for a taste of something a little different.

"Our brand of folk is direct and confrontational, dealing with matters that are of concern to everyone, but we try and deliver with a 'feel good' vibe, and the punters warmed to that! Great banter all night!"

The positive reaction has encouraged acts to want to make it an annual event.

Andrew added: "Without a doubt we would consider playing again. The event was well managed and well publicised and I'd say it was beneficial to us being part of it as well as to the community and the organisers, wouldn't think twice about doing it again.

"Hats off to Greg Stephens and his committee for putting this on! They all have busy lives and yet found time to create this wonderful week of music, great stuff all round!"

Greg is also involved with the Penkhull Mystery Plays, a one-day annual outdoor drama project based which is performed and written by local people. This year the event will take place on July 13 on the Penkhull Village Green.