Festival of Celebration 2019

Date: 
Tuesday, 19 February, 2019


A festival celebrating the artistic achievements of people with autism, learning disabilities and mental health issues in East Dunbartonshire - and the organisations that support them - is taking place next month.Leaflet  image for festival of celebration

The Festival of Celebration will run from 21-23 March with various activities happening across the area at venues such as the Lillie Art Gallery in Milngavie, Regent Centre in Kirkintilloch and Kirkintilloch Town Hall. 

The festival will include discussions, dance, drama, art exhibitions, live music, music workshops, presentations and feedback sessions, celebrating the importance of art and music in health and well-being.

A number of guest speakers are due to take part, including art, dance and music practitioners, and leading academics in the fields of art, health and well-being.

There will be live performance events - including music and dance groups, Merkland School choir, art exhibits produced by people with autism and mental health conditions from the local community, exhibition stands, information stands and many networking opportunities.Leaflet  image for festival of celebration

The festival will launch with a special event at Lillie Art Gallery on Thursday 21 March 

On Friday 22 March, a panel discussion including speakers from Indepen-dance & Limelight Music will be discussing the benefits of creative activities for those who have a diagnosis of the above conditions. The session, which will run from 10am-12.30pm, is open to everyone but spaces are limited. 

The programme for Saturday will have a real festival feel with live bands, drama and dance. There will also be a workshop with Rossie Stone from Dekko Comics and performances from Indepen-dance, Rookie Rock Stars and East Dunbartonshire's very own Sounds of the Gallery band.

Susan Manion, Chief Officer, East Dunbartonshire Health and Social Care Partnership, said, "Most people are aware of the benefits of taking part in artistic and musical activity as part of a healthy lifestyle. 

"The Festival of Celebration allows us the chance to celebrate the wonderful artistic achievements of people with autism, learning disability and mental health issues.

"As part of the festival we would love to showcase more of the visual art work such as paintings, drawings, models and animations from those who have a diagnosis of these conditions. 

"The work will be displayed in a pop-up art gallery in the Regent Centre for the duration of the festival. Please get in touch with us to discuss anything you would like to submit."

To register you interest in any of the events, or for more details, please call George Burt or Ashleigh Grant-Ng on 0141 578 2142. Alternatively, e-mail ashleigh.grant-ng@eastdunbarton.gov.uk or george.burt@eastdunbarton.gov.uk

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