CARRICKFERGUS MUSICAL FESTIVAL ASSOCIATION
Carrickfergus Music and Speech & Drama Festival, a member of the British and International Federation of Festivals (BIFF), is held annually to promote the study and cultivation of music and to encourage the art of speech and drama.
Amateur festivals have been active for over a century in our local communities and increasing leisure time and better educational opportunities are producing many talented amateur musicians, speakers and actors. Preparing for and performing at a festival involves young people in group activity and individual achievement. They gain a deeper appreciation of their repertoire and of the work of others. Each performer receives an adjudication from an expert in the genre entered. The inspiration gained from skilled adjudicators raises standards in amateur work throughout the country and all performers should leave with a sense of achievement. The main venue is Carrickfergus Town Hall and the Festival committee is indebted to the support provided by Mid & East Antrim Borough Council.
Carrickfergus Festival has been a starting point for many professionals, who began as amateurs, e.g. Barry Douglas and Katie Melua.
Proceeds from the end of Festival 2023 supper were presented to Friends of Cancer Unit.
