International performers will be flocking to Billingham next month during a nine-day cultural showcase as the festival favourite kicks off in style with a beautiful parade.
The Parade of Nations will take place on Saturday, August 12, as the official curtain raiser for the Billingham International Folklore Festival of World Dance.
The countries being represented by dancers wearing their traditional costumes and performing to rousing music are Bulgaria, Chile, Colombia, India, Mexico, Peru, Philippines, and the United Kingdom.
The free event will begin at 1.30pm and aims to slowly snake its way through the town centre starting at the West Precinct and finishing at the Festival Arena.
Olga Maloney, artistic director, said: “We just can’t wait to see the crowds reaction as they enjoy the exciting atmosphere created by the costumes, flags, stunning dance techniques and energetic performers as they welcome the world to Billingham.
“The Parade of Nations has always been the best way to kick-off the celebrations, as once the parade hits the pathways of Billingham people know that the Festival is well and truly in town.
“This year promises to be really special as we continue to welcome performers from around the globe to share their talents, inspire local dancers and to entertain our audiences.
“We have devised a programme of beautiful dance at affordable prices.”
This year’s event has received support from Arts Council England, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, Tees Valley Community Foundation, the Billingham Legacy Foundation and Billingham Town Council.
Tony Donnelly, town centre manager, St. Modwen Developments, said: “We are proud to host the Billingham International Folklore Festival 2023. It’s a great event for families and residents of all ages.
“The festival aims to bring the community and visitors together to provide a unique opportunity to celebrate cultures from around the world through dance and creativity.
“It will be wonderful to see Billingham Town Centre alive with activity, and we hope our visitors enjoy the experience of this remarkable festival.”
The Festival starts with The Parade of Nations and a Festival Arena performance on August 12, and then the exciting programme runs across an impressive nine days in venues located in Billingham, Darlington, Middlesbrough and Stockton.
The featured shows being staged over the nine-days of BIFF include Juanita's Magic Quest; the World Dance Gala; The Two Fridas; Mexican Day of the Dead; and a World of Weddings.
There’s BIFF's Children's Club, International Youth Dance Workshops, and Adult Dance Workshops, as well as children’s poetry sessions and the exciting Time Trail for Kids.
The ‘Pay What You Decide’ pricing deals are also being trialled for the Town’s Festival Arena dates during 2023 to try and make arts and culture affordable for everyone.
Tickets can be purchased for selected shows at the box offices of Forum Theatre, Billingham and Middlesbrough Town Hall; and from our online box office as part of the Festival website.
To avoid disappointment for just £1 you can reserve your seats for the Festival Arena shows, this can be done on the website.
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