Arts festival cancelled due to 'rising costs'

Image source, Feste

Image caption, The 2023 Feste featured a huge model whale
  • Author, Dan Martin
  • Role, 成人快手 News, East Midlands

A Derby arts festival has been cancelled due to rising costs of staging it.

The 16th annual Derby Feste was due to take place in the city centre across two days in September.

However organisers said they had, after careful consideration, taken the decision to "pause" it for a year.

They said they hoped the festival would return in 2025.

In a statement, they said: "This decision has been made after careful consideration and with a heavy heart, in response to the current cost-of-living crisis and rising overhead costs."

'Deeply saddened'

Steve Slater, artistic director and CEO of dance organisation Deda, which helps organise the event, said: "We understand the disappointment and frustration that this news may bring, especially considering the anticipation and excitement that typically surrounds Derby Feste.

"This decision was not taken lightly, and we share in your disappointment.

"Feste holds a special place in our hearts, and we are deeply saddened that we are unable to bring it to life this year."

He thanked supporters for their understanding and patience, and added: "We cannot wait to come together again in 2025 to celebrate the magic of the festival once more."

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