FROM BOGOTA AND BEYOND

FROM every corner of Ireland and from as far away as Bogota, Columbia - buskers were flocking to Banbridge at the weekend to take part in the biggest BuskFest ever.

More than three hundred performers competed for attention and a 3,000 prize pot as the streets echoed to the sound of music and applause.

It was a record day for attendance as well as performer participation according to Director Of Community and Enterprise, Banbridge District Council, Catriona Regan.

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She says, "BuskFest has been building steadily since its launch seven years ago and is widely recognised as the fastest growing festival of its kind in these islands, but even we were surprised at the public response to the event. A great programme, combined with a wonderfully sunny afternoon, brought everyone out onto the streets and recorded over 13,000 people enjoying the wonderful, carefree atmosphere that is the hallmark of BuskFest.

"That is a tremendous achievement and a great testimony to the talent on show, but it is also the result of a great deal of hard work and investment not only by Banbridge District Council, but also by the town's traders who have really got behind this showcase event.

"For the third year in succession we had Tesco on board as a major partner and this year we were also able to announce support from The Outlet which launched its Spirit of BuskFest Award.

"In addition we have also enjoyed the active involvement of individual traders and businesses throughout the town centre, many of whom have this year extended our entertainment programme by coming up with complementary events. A very big thank you is due to everyone who helped make 2010 such an incredible success!"

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Banbridge District Council was delighted at the public response to the event. Ms Regan says, "BuskFest represents a significant investment by the Council so we need it to deliver benefits on a number of levels. It certainly delivered community benefits in terms of bringing people together with a shared objective and, in both community and artistic terms, BuskFest delivered fantastic opportunities for musicians and artists to showcase their talents and build performance skills.

"BuskFest is also important in economic terms and that is the facet which we are focusing on most strongly. Local businesses have already been reporting record sales with those in the broad 'hospitality sector' doing particularly well. Some of our local cafes actually sold out of some lines and one said that BuskFest Saturday was the busiest day of the year!

"These are challenging times for businesses so the benefits of having the town hiving with 10,000 potential customers should not be under-estimated. While BuskFest is traditionally concentrated on afternoon performances, the build-up starts from early morning and by lunch-time the town is really bustling.

"This year we took a decision to change the timing of the free outdoor concert at Solitude Park, starting it late afternoon and finishing at 9pm. That suits both the family audiences who like to get home and get the kids to bed at a reasonable hour …. and allows local pubs to benefit from crowds who want the party to continue.

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"This year many local bars came up trumps with session music and other entertainment starting just as the crowds left Solitude.

"It's one big day for Banbridge but BuskFest is very far from being a one day wonder. Our research demonstrates that the benefits go on long after the buskers go home.

"Many people who have visited the town for BuskFest and who have been impressed will return to shop, stay and explore at more leisurely pace. It is up to us to capitalise on those favourable impressions and promote return visits."

Amongst those generating fabulous first impressions and adding carnival atmosphere to the town were artists from Australia, Canada, Europe and even as far away as Columbia whose street circus act, Montercermundo ('Top of the Third World') delighted audiences with a magical mix of burlesque cabaret, music, comedy, bullwhip and fakirism!

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At Solitude Park more than 3,500 people watched winners perform followed by Joe Echo and Jerry Fish & The Mudbug Club in concert. It was the first major concert to be held in the park since its extensive refurbishment was completed and the new layout, complete with tiered seating, added to the relaxed atmosphere.

Local man, David Hanlon summed up the enthusiasm when he commented, "The chance to get to see Jerry Fish for free, such a phenomenal performer, was so worth it and I'd definitely pay to see him in concert any time. A great night to round off a great day!"

Catriona Regan says, "BuskFest 2010 was everything we all hoped for . . . and a great deal more besides. Our challenge now is to ensure that 2011 is even biggest and better. I know that Banbridge is well up for that challenge!"

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