Chester Bandstand 2021 season to feature eclectic mix of performances and four brand new commissions

For the second year running, local creatives are being invited to apply for a commission to produce a new piece of work for Chester.

There are four £250 micro-commissions available. Last year’s commissioned work included visual art by Estelle Woolley, new drama from Minerva Arts, John Young and Kevin Dyer plus music and video by Peter Simcoe, featuring Dorothy Bird. 

The deadline for submitting applications is 8pm on Monday 14 June. The successful applicants will be revealed on Monday 21 June. 

As last year, the majority of this year’s events will be hosted online at the Virtual Bandstand. 

Councillor Louise Gittins, Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council said: “The virtual bandstand performances were just one example of the creativity and adaptability of artists and performers. I still hope a small number of live performances will be able to go ahead later in the summer. 

“This year’s Chester Bandstand programme will be showcasing a range of performers from across the region throughout the summer months.” 

The programme will include a mix of performance styles and art forms such as music, visual art, drama, dance and poetry and a fee is available for artists.

Luke Moore, Creative Producer for the Chester Bandstand said: “It’s exciting to be able to showcase the creativity from across the region and see several new pieces of work being produced. 

“There was a lot of positive feedback about last year’s adapted programme.  The performers and commissioned creatives worked really hard to spread the word and generate a buzz about these virtual events. I can’t thank last year’s performers enough for all their efforts to deliver something really special”.

To express an interest in a Bandstand commission, performing or having your work featured on the Virtual Bandstand, please email chesterbandstand@gmail.com.

Visit the Virtual Bandstand at:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCitn3YY5GLvulR1l3NmdzDQ/playlists

Chester Bandstand commission application form can be downloaded here:

Chester Bandstand commission application form