Kalpana Sharma
Updated on: October 9, 2024 3:03 pm GMT
Seventeen Groups Unite for Vibrant Sea Shanty Festival in Norfolk
This weekend, the tranquil shores of Brancaster Staithe will transform into a lively celebration of maritime culture as seventeen sea shanty groups gather for a much-anticipated festival. Kicking off at 6 PM on Friday, music lovers can enjoy performances from a variety of acts at six different venues, with Hoy Boy opening the event at the Jolly Sailors.
A Weekend Packed with Performances
The festival promises to showcase an impressive lineup including notable groups such as Nelson’s Shantymen, Blakeney Old Wild Rovers, and the Sheringham Shantymen. Each of these groups brings a unique flair to traditional sea shanties, providing entertainment that appeals to a broad audience.
In addition to the musical performances, festival attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a charity lottery. All proceeds from the lottery will benefit the RNLI Wells Next-the-Sea and the National Coastwatch Institution at Brancaster, contributing to local maritime safety and support.
Organizers Share Their Excitement
Sam Ireson, a member of Nelson’s Shantymen, expressed the enthusiasm surrounding the event. “We are extremely excited about this now annual event,” Ireson stated, emphasizing the importance of bringing together like-minded shanty groups to perform and raise funds for local charities. “A tremendous amount of hard work has gone into organizing this year’s festival, which is being sponsored by Anglian Country Inns, Holts Auctioneers & Sowerby’s,” he added. “Let’s make waves and create unforgettable memories whilst supporting our wonderful community.”
Local Involvement Enhances Festival Spirit
Simon Parkin, the manager at the Jolly Sailors, echoed Ireson’s sentiment. “We are delighted to be hosting this wonderful festival in our village,” he said. Parkin highlighted that the Jolly Sailors is not only a venue for the festival but also a place where the Nelson’s Shantymen practice regularly, making it a hub for seafaring culture in North Norfolk. He added, “It is wonderful that this is a fundraising event too, and this year all monies raised will be split between Wells RNLI and NCI Brancaster.”
An Invitation to Enjoy Local Culture
As the festival approaches, local business involvement has been crucial to its success. Parkin expressed gratitude towards all the local businesses that contributed prizes for the charity lottery, noting their essential role in fostering community spirit. This festival not only aims to entertain but also strengthens community bonds and brings awareness to maritime organizations that play critical roles in ensuring safety at sea.
Sail Away into the Rhythm of the Sea
With the festival set to attract both locals and tourists, the weekend promises to be filled with music, community connection, and the charming essence of traditional sea shanty culture. As the first notes of the sea shanties fills the air, attendees are sure to find themselves taken away by the power of song and the joy of togetherness.
Visit for More Information
For those interested in learning more about the festival, including tickets and event schedules, please refer to the official events page provided by the Brancaster Staithe community website.
The RNLI does a lot of important work to help save lives at sea. They have many programs and projects that make a big difference. If you want to learn more about what they do, you can check out their website.
