The 44th Burton Bradstock Festival of Music and Art gets underway from August 15th to August 23rd. It opens with the Art Exhibition showcasing an impressively high standard of works for sale by West Country artists. The range includes framed art work, greetings cards, ceramics, glassware, and jewellery. The artists themselves assist volunteer stewards, thereby adding to visitors’ enjoyment. Entry is free.

The Music Festival opener on Sunday August 16th is a Tea Party with live music in the Rectory Gardens at 3pm, followed by Festival Evensong in St Mary’s Church in the heart of this lovely Dorset village. The concert programme starts on Tuesday August 18th with Castaway in the Church at 11.30 am. David Juritz, the Festival’s Artistic Director, says that St Mary’s, with the close proximity of the audience to the stage, breaks down barriers as well as generating a wonderful sound. David aims to select some less well- known pieces into the Burton programme; this gives a refreshed approach to the classics, which aren’t neglected either. His goal is to give pleasure and enjoyment. With nine concerts over four days, there really is something for everyone. He regards his week in West Dorset as the most enjoyable of his year, and as with the other musicians who join him, all internationally acclaimed, keeps mid August open in his diary every year to come down to the Jurassic Coast.
There are midday concerts, one with a picnic platter; an evening with Amelia Coburn and another with Lucy Dixon; a Chamber Concert, a Gala Concert and more. For full programme details, and art exhibition opening hours see www.burtonbradstockfestival.com
Tickets are now on sale at the Bridport Tourist Information Centre, South Street, Bridport DT6 3LF, at the counter, by post, by phoning 01308 424901, or online at https://bridportandwestbay.co.uk/tickets/.

Art Exhibition free entry: Concert tickets from £10-£25