Fantastic festival returns

By Melissa Piche Times Contributor

The Strathmore Performing Arts Festival is back, promising 10 full days of music, entertainment and community spirit beginning on March 26.

Now in its 7th year, the festival has seen remarkable growth since its inception with new families joining the community and eager to participate.

Festival President LoraLee Laycock shared her excitement about the festival’s expansion. 

“This is our highest number of entries,” she said, stating the enrollment is close to 480. “Lots of interest – we have a few new teachers that have moved to the community who are sending their students to participate in festivals, which is always a nice bump for the enrollment.” 

Among these are categories designed to be more inclusive ensuring everyone has a chance to participate.

With the festival’s growth comes a need for more volunteers. Laycock stressed that volunteer roles are simple yet vital to ensuring everything runs smoothly. 

“People shouldn’t be afraid to step in – we provide plenty of guidance,” she said. “Even if you’ve never volunteered before we make it easy and welcoming.” 

If anyone would like to volunteer for this festival or for future festivals they are encouraged to email (strathmorepaf@gmail.com).

The final concert for the festival is on April 9 at the Hope Community Church at 7 p.m. Tickets are $5 per person or $10 per family.

“It’s always a well-attended evening,” said Laycock of the final concert. “We have so many students nominated to perform that it’s a great showcase of local talent. We’ve seen such wonderful support from the Strathmore community.” 

Laycock stressed the gratitude of donations and community support, which is the foundation behind the festival. 

“The festival can’t run without donations from local businesses and also families and people who want to support this movement going forward,” said Laycock. “It’s amazing to see the arts becoming a bigger part of our town, especially for young people.”

For more information on the Strathmore Performing Arts Festival, visit their website (www.strathmorepaf.com).