A Brand New Festival Day
Jonathan Elliot has been organising community events and training for over 20 years. During the nineties he organised music festivals, raves and art projects across the UK. After studying politics at Queen Mary University of London, he decided to put his experience in to setting up a social enterprise called Talk Action. A project supporting charities, public sector bodies, community groups and social enterprises to maximise their capacity and achieve their development goals.
Something New
Jonathan started with his first festival in Kent 30 years ago and after moving here 6 years ago, decided that Totnes could use some alternative outdoor action leading to Sky Rise Festival. He tried a while back but an awkward pandemic moved in. Since then he has sought funding and a group of volunteers to get something together.
The Albert
Following a successful meeting recently in The Albert Inn where about 15 people turned up, a team has started to emerge and the date is now set for Saturday 20th July from noon until 9pm on the lovely spot of Longmarsh. An ambitious day has already been arranged including Totnes Jamming Station, Forest School, The Dad’s Network running archery and rocket making. There will be stalls, street food, tea and cake tent, a bar area with a pub quiz and even a wellbeing area. Amongst everthing else will be areas for folk and choir events and later on the vibe will turn to dance, dub and drum & bass with Barrel House regulars BeWater with Matt Bossa and Yomojo amongst others.
Get involved
Now Jonathan is looking for help from anyone who can offer cheap (or free) marquees. He would love to hear from lively bands playing Funk, Hip Hop or from anyone who would like to help out as Event Crew/Stewards. And if anyone has an outdoor stage or flatbed truck he would love to hear from you.
Whilst some funding has be found from local councils, there is plenyt of scope for extra funding needs such as sponserships.
The Sky Rise Festival facebook page is here.
To contact Jonathan: jelliott@talkaction.org