Sign in Subscribe
Festivals

75-Year-Old Grandma Unveils Photo Archive from Beloved Dance Festival

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Maggie Gee, a 75-year-old grandmother, has opened a photographic window into the life and times of the Billingham International Folklore Festival of World Dance, a celebration of six decades that wraps up in August. Maggie's father, Walter Crinnion, a photographer, captured a wonderful collection of memorabilia documenting several years of the festival. The archive spans from 1968 to 1974, a period when Maggie was a young teenager. Maggie's family was deeply involved in the festival, with her siblings and their friends participating in various events.

Key Takeaways:

  • Maggie Gee, a 75-year-old grandmother, has uncovered a collection of photographs taken by her father, Walter Crinnion, during the Billingham International Folklore Festival of World Dance.
  • The archive spans from 1968 to 1974, covering several years of the festival that celebrates six decades in August.
  • Maggie's family was deeply involved in the festival, with her siblings and their friends participating in various events.
  • The festival has a significant impact on the local community, encouraging international exchange and bringing enriched entertainment to the town.
  • Maggie has fond memories of the festival, which has "provided me with a wealth of memories that I will savour forever."
  • The Billingham International Folklore Festival of World Dance is celebrating its 60th anniversary, with events taking place across Tees Valley from August 9 to 17.
  • The festival is supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Stockton Borough Council, and the Arts Council's National Lottery Project Grants programme.
  • The festival has received a positive response from the community, with many people wanting to share their stories and memories of the festival.

Statistics:

  • The archive spans 6 years (1968-1974).
  • The festival is celebrating its 60th anniversary from August 9 to 17.
  • The visiting international dance companies are coming from 6 countries: Canada, Indonesia, Mexico, Montenegro, Puerto Rico, and the USA.
  • Tickets for some events start from as little as £1.

Sources:

  • [JADE MCELWEE, jade.mcelwee@reachplc.com, @JADEMREPORTER]
  • www.billinghamfestival.com

Read more