Now in its fourth year, Thetford’s Great Festival is bigger than ever with a packed schedule of events spanning two weeks.
With more than 50 events including comedy, music, theatre and children’s activities taking place, there’s something for everyone.
To help you choose what to pick out of the array of entertainment, The Times has put together its top ten festival events.
For tickets and programmes, the Festival Box Office can be contacted at Leaping Hare in King Street, on 01842 751975 or 07802 701911.
You can also go to the Leaping Hare website at www.leapinghare.org or email info@leapinghare.org for more information.
For more on the festival, go to www.thetfordsgreatfestival.org
1. Horse of the Year Show
A creative competition for Thetford school pupils, the Horse of the Year Show sees Year 6 students painting a model horse. The winners will be decided at a judging event at King’s House on August 22 at 6.30pm. The winners will be given £2,000 and the horses will be displayed around the town after the festival.
2. Music Arts Project
The Music Arts Project (MAP) will give people the chance to take part in workshops and taster sessions at the Carnegie Rooms on August 23 from 3pm to 10pm. Entry is free.
3. The Capable Convict Henry Kable
Based on the life of Henry Kable, a failed burglar from Thetford exiled to Australia, this one woman play sees Kiara Hawker take to the stage at the Guildhall on August 26 and 27. The show starts at 7.30pm and tickets are £3. Kiara will also be holding a drama workshop at the Ancient House Museum on August 29.
4. Wild Events
Immerse yourself in the great outdoors with a series of wildlife events in the Thetford area. Events include wild walks in Thetford and a chance to join RSPB staff to see the elusive stone curlew.
5. Meet the Yarnsmith of Norwich
Storytelling to astound and astonish at St Peters Church on August 28 from 7pm. Tickets are £2.
6. The Bridge That Tom Built
Actor Dominic Allen brings the story of Thomas Paine to life at Thetford Grammar School, the radical’s former school. Taking place on September 1, the show starts at 7pm and tickets are available on 01842 752840.
7. Light, bright and tuneful
Internationally renowned organist David Ivory and mezzo soprano Scilla Stewart bring music to St Cuthberts Church on September 5 from 7.30pm. Tickets are £5.
8. All the Fun of the Fete 1914
An uncanny First World War-era experience, the fete will introduce visitors to characters including a recruiting officer, nurse and Flying Corps officer, with period side shows to keep everyone happy. A traditional tea, costing £8 per person, will be held on September 6 as part of the day. Places need to be booked in advance from the festival box office.
9. The Prince Duleep Singh Cup Cricket Match
Young Lions Nottingham take on a Shadwell Invitational XI at Shadwell Stud cricket ground on August 25 from noon. Bring your own chairs and see the Babeh Feta Singh Gatka Sikh martial arts team open the event.
10. Thetford’s Great Festival Craft Fair
A craft fair offering a range of gift ideas, tombola, raffle and official merchandise, run by Thetford Players. Takes place on September 6 from 10am to 3pm at the Carnegie Room.
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