PROGRAMME
That's Politainment! And Why We Were Right - an evening with Rosie Holt
Rosie has chosen the Repton Festival to launch her new book “Why We Were Right – A Catalogue of Conservative Successes”, essential reading ahead of the general election.
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Come along to enjoy an hour of stand-up, an entertaining interview and a copy of the book!
Repton Festival at the 400 Hall
Let's Make You an Artist! With Ruth Millington
Family Fun
Learn how to create a cut out collage like Matisse or make an abstract mobile like Hilma af Klint with Ruth Millington.
Combining fascinating art facts with the creativity and excitement of a craft session, this super interactive and inspiring event will have kids keen to pick up their pencils, get creative and leave with their very own masterpiece!
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Mums, Dads or Grandparents can take part too!
Repton Festival in the Grubber
Jason Carter - a musical powerhouse like no other!
With 18 albums to his name and concerts spanning over 100 countries, this international harp-guitarist and composer has graced stages from London's South Bank to gatherings around the globe. But what truly sets him apart? His music has touched the hearts of presidents, sheikhs, kings, and even those often overlooked - children, the homeless and the terminally ill with concerts that are deeply fascinating, intimate and profoundly moving occasions in which he not only shares his creative musical gift but also a gentle and genuine humanity. From performing for thousands in North Korea to teaching music workshops for young Taliban soldiers, Jason's journey is nothing short of extraordinary and his efforts as an ambassador for peace and intercultural dialogue have earned him international recognition, praise, honours and awards alongside support from UNESCO and the United Nations but Jason's talents don't end with music - he's also a celebrated filmmaker, with international awards under his belt.
Repton Festival at St. Wystan's Parish Church
Cheeky chocolate!
Family Fun
For older children (10+) and adults with a sweet tooth looking for something adventurous and grown-up. You will get your hands very chocolatey mixing, piping, rolling, dipping and decorating! If any survive, you can take them home and give them to your loved ones!
We have lactose free and vegan ingredients - just let us know.
Repton Festival in the Grubber
The Vikings are Coming!
Family Fun
Join the Vikings of Middle England as they return to Repton, the historic capital of Mercia and site of the Viking Great Army's winter camp in 873 A.D. for a weekend of breath-taking living history at their encampment - within an axe-throw of the original settlement.
See and handle replica Viking weapons
Watch as arrowheads, knives, axes and locks are forged
Learn how food was made and cooked
Find out what life was really like before experiencing all the thrilling excitement of authentic, dramatic, live combat displays performed where Vikings once stood... in Repton!
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You can see the Vikings by purchasing a Paddock Pass ticket. They're free!
Repton Festival on the Paddock
An interview with Heather Wheeler OBE
Heather Wheeler OBE has survived over 40 years in politics, including 15 years representing Repton on the District Council and 14 years as our MP.
While initially a rebel, Heather became a loyal MP and held a wide variety of government roles, including Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (PUSS) at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, with responsibility for homelessness and rough sleeping and PUSS for Asia and the Pacific at the FCO in the first Johnson ministry.
Wheeler was later appointed an assistant Government whip in the second cabinet reshuffle of the second Johnson ministry.
In June 2023, she was one of six Conservative MPs to vote against censuring Boris Johnson following the Commons Privileges Committee investigation and she was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for political and public service.
Clearly, a fascinating life that we (and you) will delve into freely
Repton Festival at the 400 Hall
Get with the beat!
Family Fun
Discover your inner demon drummer at the Repton Festival percussion workshops and turn your rhythmic dreams into reality! Led by Bruce Parry, a seasoned percussionist with over 30 years of experience spanning orchestras, musical theatre, pop bands, and salsa, these workshops offer a unique opportunity to unleash your musical passion. No instruments necessary—just bring your enthusiasm. However, if you have your own percussion instrument, feel free to bring it along!
All are welcome, regardless of experience or age—there's no such thing as too young or too old! These workshops are designed to be relaxed, catering to individuals and families who prefer informal settings. Noise is embraced, and participants are free to join or leave the workshop at any time.
Get ready to find your Repton groove and drum up some unforgettable memories!
Repton Festival on the Paddock
Garden Heaven
Attention all aspiring gardeners and National Trust enthusiasts - an opportunity definitely too good and fascinating to be ignored.
Come and be enthralled by Vanessa Berridge as she talks about her latest book, Garden Heaven, showing over 30 of Britain’s most beautiful gardens, from Sissinghurst to Kiftsgate (that beautiful white rose we’d all like to have) to Bodnant in Cornwall. Vanessa launched the English Garden magazine in 1997 and is an award winning author and well known authority on beautiful gardens. After you hear her speak you won’t want to miss the chance to weed out gardens of your choice. We are privileged to be able to welcome her to Repton.
Repton Festival at the 400 Hall
