Nothing is left to chance (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Nothing is left to chance

2:28pm Thursday 17th May 2007 in Leisure By Joanne Moore

Organisers of this year's Chippenham Folk Festival are leaving nothing to chance when it comes to the weather.

After the torrential rain that washed out many events last weekend, the festival is ready for whatever is thrown at it on May 25 to 28.

Organiser Bob Berry said: "We have now completed our plans for wet weather.

"A decision will be made by the management by 11am and then several venues swap places so that the Arena displays can take place in the Olympiad Sports Hall."

But, whatever the weather, he believes there will be something for everyone this year.

He said: "The festival is known by most people for its Morris dancing, the crafts and music sales and all the free stuff.

"But here are some simply stunning performances going on behind the doors of almost every venue in the town.

"The festival hosts over 200 individual events, all of which are available from one ticket.'' "The most popular events are the evening concerts in the Studio Hall, the ceilidhs and the Aquelidh - the dance in the swimming pool."

Mr Berry said there are three not to be missed special events at this year's festival.

He picked out a show called A Little Bit Of Luck? which depicts the life and work of the actor Stanley Holloway.

Another favourite will be Moe Keast telling her story of the life and music of Cornwall.

Also on the list is a show by comedian Keith Donnelly who writes Jasper Carrot's jokes, Everyone Wants To Be a Bear.

But whatever your bag you are sure to find something to meet your taste at this year's festival.

Under the heading of song and music the festival has the award winning Tim van Eyken topping the bill.

There will also be Last Night's Fun, The Piper's Sons, The Witches of Elswick, Belshazzars Feast and Mawkin.

But for many the Island Park Arena will always be the biggest draw.

It is here hundreds of dancers, musicians and singers will put on a free show every day.

Among the best known of those appearing this year will be Bristol Morris Men, Chequered Flag, Rising Phoenix (USA) Stone the Crowns and The Sheffield Morris Men.

In this area there will also be a huge craft marquee and plenty of places to find a drink or something to eat.

Hundreds of people will line the High Street on the Saturday and Mondy of the festival for its famous parades.

The tour of the town will start from outside the library and will be chance for all the Morris and clog groups to show their style.

Mr Berry said: "For a lot of people this is the festival. It is a real tradition." It will also be a chance for children who have taken part in workshops organised by Shooting Roots at the Bridge Centre to show what they have learnt.

The festival is keen for young people aged from 12 to get as much as possible out of the event and there will be a chance to enjoy all things folky every day.

A full list of all the artists and details about ticket prices and venues can be found on www.chipfolk.co.uk