Today is the first day this year that we haven’t needed to pop the heating on here in the Hijinx Office. I’ve shrugged off my cardi in an attempt to fool myself that summer is quite possibly almost round the corner and bringing with it the almighty belt of festivals that pop up each year. But we can forget Glasto, T, Reading & Leeds: this year it’s all about the ‘Diff.
We are back and bigger than ever with the Unity Festival, our surprisingly different arts festival bringing you everything from tequila-filled dancers to blood soaked theatre – this one is going to be one to remember!
As well as showcasing the crème de la crème of the UK scene, our international friends are coming to play. Artists will be clocking air miles from Sweden, Spain, France, Germany and Ethiopia – so you bet I’m brushing up on my Ciao, Hola and Bonjour’s while hoping everyone will be fluent in coffee.
The festival is two-fold, presenting both ticketed and free events. The majority of the ticketed programme this year is hosted by the Wales Millennium Centre but we are also popping up to The Other Room for a couple of pints performances. During the weekend we take over the City Centre as the Hayes explodes with crazy circus, theatre, dance and a whole host of characters delivering incredible and unforgettable ‘you had to be there’ experiences.
Coming from a background in dance, one performance I’m particularly looking forward to is contemporary dance artist Caroline Bowditch’s ‘Falling in Love with Frida’ over at the NDCWales’ Dance House. It’s a riotous homage to the fabulous Ms Kahlo, presented as part of our late-night programme AND if that doesn’t sell it to you – we are installing a bar over there! Chin Chin!!
It’s my job as Festival Co-ordinator to make sure the cogs in this beast keep turning and while I’m sat here dreaming of summer, I realise there is an awful lot more work to do. Next on my list is a risk assessment involving tyres from a monster-truck, skateboards and a slackline – wish me luck!
Ellis J-Wright, Unity Festival Co-ordinator talks about the Hijinx Unity Festival Programme
The Hijinx Unity Festival runs from 27th June – 2nd July 2016. For more information, including full programme listings please visit hijinxunity.org.uk