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Ilkley Carnival takes centre stage with ‘Shows and Musicals’ theme

 

The spotlight is set to shine on the 2019 Ilkley Carnival this year as the theme is officially announced as ‘Shows and Musicals’.

 

Last year took to the small screen for the TV programme-inspired theme which saw a record breaking 9,000 people head to the streets for last year’s event. This year, the stakes are set high as people are encouraged to step into the limelight and get creative with show and musical related ideas for the event.

 

Andrew Stacey, Chair of the Ilkley Carnival Committee, said: “Whether you’re crazy for Chicago, fanatical about Fame or wild for Wicked, Ilkley Carnival is set to be the go-to event this year. Despite the growth of digital entertainment, the theatre has made a huge comeback over the past decade with the success of shows such as Matilda and Miss Saigon. It’s time to draw back the red curtains on Ilkley and kick start our most joyous carnival yet!”

 

The May Day extravaganza commences on 6 May and kicks off with the all singing, all dancing parade which begins on The Grove and ends at East Holmes Field showground which will be home to marvellous headline acts, classic cars, a fun dog show, trade and charity stalls and a host of free children’s activities from the craft tent to Punch and Judy.”

 

In 2018, a phenomenal £15k was raised for the local community through sponsorship, donations and ticket sales. Half of the funds went to primary beneficiary Burley Scout and Guide group to assist them in the installation of facilities in their new hut. The remaining £7,500 was split between local charities and organisations who supported on the day and £300 was donated to the parish council to help fund the town’s Christmas tree.

 

Local organisations are encouraged to apply for the 2019 beneficiary process within the next month.

 

Andrew added: “The community spirit of the carnival is astonishing and we aim to welcome more people through the gates than ever before. Ilkley Carnival wouldn’t be possible without our outstanding sponsors and volunteers who help us raise remarkable funds. We welcome all businesses, organisations and individuals who can wave their jazz hands and make this the town’s most spectacular carnival to date.”

 

For details about becoming a sponsor and available advertising packages, contact carnival committee member Colin Watson on 07885 200640. To join the carnival’s team of volunteers, contact Andrew Stacey on 07951 890836.

For more information, visit the carnival’s new website on www.ilkleycarnival.org and to keep updated with all the news follow @IlkleyCarnival on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.