Visitors are set to enjoy 17 days of arts, music and culture as Cookham Festival returned on Friday.
The long-running biennial event will bring art, music, spoken word, exhibitions and walks to Cookham and the surrounding areas between Friday, May 1 and Sunday, May 17.
Now into its sixth decade, the popular event looks to make ‘exceptional cultural experiences’ accessible to all and to celebrate local talent of all ages.
Spoken word
This year’s event will kicked off on Friday with an evening featuring Lucy Fleming and Simon Williams.
It featured wartime letters between Fleming’s mother, Oscar-nominated actress Celia Johnson, and her husband Peter Fleming, who is the brother of James Bond creator Ian Fleming.
The evening was followed by a screening of the 1945 classic Brief Encounter, starring Celia Johnson and introduced by Lucy.
Mike Parkinson shared an intimate tribute to his father, the late Sir Michael Parkinson, at Holy Trinity Church on Saturday, May 2.
Alistair McGowan will perform his three-in-one show combining poetry, comedy and classical piano on Monday, May 4.
Former Maidenhead Synagogue Rabbi Jonathan Romain will present a ‘thought-provoking’ talk on assisted dying on Thursday, May 14.
Musical programme
This year’s music programme features folk/acoustic and roots singer Steve Knightley, founding member of Show of Hands, who will perform on Friday, May 15.
Fiery European ensemble Unicorn Frequency will perform on Friday, May 8, followed by Toby Cruse: Stars of the West End on Sunday, May 10.
A gala closing concert from City of London Sinfonia Alexandra’s Wood, reimagining Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, will take place on Sunday, May 17.
Children’s entertainment
Youngsters will be treated to a packed programme of entertainment including a Young Musician’s concert, the Cookham Kids Summer Concert and a Bugs and Dinosaurs event with poet Simon Mole.
Guests will also enjoy art workshops and the Cookham Chronicles musical performance.
Art and walks
Visual art lovers will get the opportunity to explore the festival’s Sculpture Garden, photography exhibition and an array of gallery exhibitions.
Those who enjoy the outdoors can choose from guided walks, including a Stanley Spencer Walk, a Dawn Chorus Walk and a wildlife walk through the Odney estate.
Each ticket purchased for the festival directly supports communities served by the festival.
In 2024, the festival donated £38,000 to local community groups and schools, funding equipment, performances and improved facilities for young people across the area.
Chairman Derek Bond, said: “Since 1967, this event has been a celebration of the arts known for the quality of its programme.
“We’ve designed a fantastic line-up of art, music, walks and spoken word for all ages. Whether you’re a returning friend or joining us for the first time, I hope you find something that delights you.”
The full festival programme and tickets can be found at: www.ticketsource.co.uk/cookham-festival
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