BOLLYWOOD dancers and a taste of the Taj Mahal burst the launch of the Old Town Festival to life on with a vibrance promising this year’s offerings will be the best yet.

The festival’s community partner The Commonweal School hosted the event in the school hall from 7pm and visitors enjoyed an evening of performances from the Shaheen dance group, dancers from Commonweal and Dr Shiva. 

People also had a chance to try on or buy a sari and have a henna tattoo done before enjoying a meal provided by the Taj Mahal in West Swindon.
Josie Williams, festival chairman and community arts development officer at Commonweal School said:

“There isn’t a particular theme this year, but we have a full programme of events for all. Commonweal is delighted to be involved and to support the local community.

“Please make a note of the dates in your diary and follow us on Facebook for up to the minute information.”

The evening also saw the official launch of the festival programme, which has been produced by local company Screaming Media and gives a full list of the events set to take place from June 6 to June 14.

Josie said: “Next month the Old Town Festival comes into focus. Billed as the town’s major family summer event there is sure to be something for everyone to enjoy.

“The main event is on Sunday, June 7, starting in Wood Street at 10am where there will be a variety of entertainment including Commonweal Street Theatre, cycling races, the official opening ceremony, a visit from super heroes and the parade which passes through at 11am. 

“After this it is the Family Fun Day on the Lawn. Here families will be able to browse through an array of stalls from delicious food vendors to exquisite crafts and workshops. 

“There will be fairground rides for the children and smiles a plenty. 

“The Commonweal PTA will be running their fund raising café selling delicious homemade cakes and cream teas, beside their mini fete which includes face painting, hook a duck and book stall.

“During the afternoon the Commonweal Performing Arts Marquee hosts a programme of community acts of music and dance.”

In the evening, there will also be live music from tribute bands including Same Old Faces and Zing, as well as the Swindon Samba band and father and daughter duo, The Generation Gap.

Other events include a guided walk around Old Town’s Jurassic sites on June 9, a guided Pub Walk of Old Town on June 10, and live music at the Old Town Gardens Bowl on June 13.

For more information please visit oldtownfestival.co.uk.

Most events are free, but to buy tickets for particular events please visit swindontickets.co.uk.