University opens its doors for Festival of Arts

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School pupils, members of the public and University of Leeds staff and students are coming together this summer for a Festival of Arts.

Highlights will include an interactive West African music performance for families; family-friendly archaeology workshops at Leeds Industrial Museum and a concert – part of the renowned International Concert Series – celebrating the arrival of the Tour de France in Yorkshire.

The public events, running throughout June and July, are in addition to the comprehensive programme for schools organised by the University and enjoyed by hundreds of pupils of all ages in dozens of schools all over the country.

“This years’ Festival, our fourth, will be the most ambitious yet,” said Arts Educational Engagement Officer Lindsey Strachan. “As well as offering a comprehensive programme of events for schools, this year we have been lucky enough to work with a variety of partners to offer exciting events which are open to all”.

The University has partnerships across Leeds and the wider region with organisations including Leeds City Council, Marks & Spencer, Opera North, The Hepworth Wakefield and The Tetley.

“As well as celebrating the rich arts heritage of the University, the Festival supports the student recruitment and widening participation objectives of the two faculties of Arts and Performance, Visual Arts & Communications, added Lindsey Strachan. “We couldn’t run such an exciting event without the contribution of staff and students across both faculties, and are tremendously grateful to them for giving their time.”

Find out more about the Festival of Arts and download a programme or email artsfestival@leeds.ac.uk for more information.

This summer the University is also organising the Ludus festival of performance across Leeds; a Spring Into Summer series of learning-for-pleasure courses and events and its first Festival of Social Science, aimed at school pupils.

Further information

For further information or to arrange interviews, contact Press Officer Gareth Dant on 0113 343 3996 or email g.j.dant@leeds.ac.uk

University of Leeds

The University of Leeds is one of the largest higher education institutions in the UK and a member of the Russell Group of research-intensive universities.