The big
attraction is always the Tall Ships and this year there are twenty of the
giant ships booked in. Add more than 650 classic and traditional boats
ranging from the tiny coracle to the lovingly cared for classics from all
ages, the festival is a spectacular event.
You are never sure what you are going to see and hear next. There is a
policy of music at every turn with 2000 musicians to entertain the
visitor. Shanty music, traditional music from around the world –
wherever there is a connection with the sea. All this is topped off each
night with a major concert in a purpose built 10,000-seat arena.
Performers on the main stage include the BBC Concert Orchestra, the Band
of HM Royal marines and top line popular bands.
As would be expected in a Festival set in a Naval Base, the Royal navy
is well represented. There will be 35 Navy ships from ten overseas navies.
The United States navy is sending the USS Winston S Churchill on her first
overseas visit. New for 2001 is the status endowed on the International
Festival of the Sea to be the first of a series of events to replace the
famous Royal Tournament, which will mean that the Royal Air Force, the
Army and the Royal marines will be putting on a full show. There will be a
daily ‘battle’ in one of the giant docks with immense resources put
into action including Apache Gunships, Lynx, Merlin and Sea King
helicopters, Harrier jets, Tornado and possibly a Typhoon Eurofighter. The
Red Arrows, Battle of Britain Flight, and the Royal navy Historic Flight
will be showing their own special flying skills.
As part of this new Defense 2001 policy of showing the public how we
defend our country, the services will also be contributing to several
specialist areas including an Adrenalin Island where teenagers can try out
an assault course, simulators and other exiting hands-on activities.
The roots of the Festival however remain the traditional maritime
aspects of this country’s long and proud heritage. This year’s will
have more of everything: Tall Ships, classic boats, traditional music, and
more historic scenarios with a return of the popular Georgian Street
market with hundreds of costumed actors enjoying the atmosphere as much as
the visitors. Tickets are available now through Ticketmaster with
discounts available for groups travelling by coach. The Festival Hotline
for enquiries and tickets is 08705 50 50 40 – for groups, 08705 94 94
94.
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