RIVFEST 2017 – a huge success as stars and upcoming bands delight 5000 music lovers.
Thousands of music lovers of all ages gathered on the fields of Priestly College last night ( Saturday 2nd September) to celebrate sensational bands, enjoy tasty street food, browse some fab craft stalls in the marketplace, and enjoy a drink or two with friends and family. The event, now in it’s second year, has grown significantly since it’s humble beginnings and is now a keenly anticipated part of this years Warrington Festival. River Reeves, after whom the festival is named, was a former pupil at the college and went on to achieve his dream to become a successful musician. River along with his bandmates and manager in Viola Beach were destined for the top before their journey was cut tragically short in Sweden last year.
Headlining this years festival on the main stage were alternative rock band Maximo Park who brought the fantastic show to a thundering climax with their dynamic sound and flamboyant frontman Paul Smith . Despite the temperatures dropping it didn’t cool the crowds enthusiasm one iota as they danced and sang along. Preceding the ultimate act was iconic activist and songwriter Billy Bragg who played a combination of his classics and some new songs he is in the process of releasing. His finale “New England” had the fans absolutely bouncing. It was wonderful to see local lads and pals Max and Mo back on stage together as they showed that fame had not made them lose any of their chemistry. Eliza and the Bear, Weekend Wars, Slydigs, Rainband, Joshua Stott (Harrop Fold), Quinlan & Ollie,Model Aeroplanes,Stillia,Jackobins,Man & The Echo and The RPMs also played superb sets to an ever growing and appreciative audience.
The event was officially opened by the Mayor of Warrington Les Morgan, who threatened to perform a few songs himself.
On the introducing stage many young, up and coming bands belted out original and inspiring work. They included local band the Psyblings, Joe Hill,Friends Of Our Youth,Caro,Shakedown Stockholm,Carl North & The Lonely Hearts,Pacific,Off The Grid,and Status, all of whom helped make this festival into one of the “must see” highlights of the cultural calendar in Warrington and what the Foundation is ultimately about, promoting new,local talent.
The aims of the foundation are to help young people realise their dreams as actors, writers, artists, directors and musicians through grants, donations and other payments. Their ambition is to help talented youngsters, many from disadvantaged backgrounds, who might otherwise struggle financially make their way in the music and performing arts world. They also plan to support local secondary and primary schools by helping enrich and support the music and arts curriculum for many years to come.
Following the terrible events in Manchester on Monday 22nd May, the River Reeves Foundation have decided that for every RivFest17 ticket sold, £1 will be donated to the We Love Manchester emergency fund set up by Manchester City Council in partnership with the British Red Cross to support those affected by the attack.
