Friday 15 June 2007

 

JOHNSMAS FOY LAUNCH WEEKEND SETS FAST TEMPO FOR FESTIVAL

 

This year’s Johnsmas Foy sets off at a fast tempo with two unique events being staged: the Skeld Festival of the Sea and the first visit to Shetland from a professional orchestra for 15 years.  Both are prominent events that set a standard of excellence for this year’s action-packed festival programme.

 

The Skeld Festival of the Sea (15 to 17 June) will celebrate the area’s historical links with Faroe and Scandinavia, and will recognise its historical importance as a major centre for the fishing industry.  Following the opening ceremony on Friday evening, the Shetland Yoal Association races will take place with the Johnsmas Foy Cup being presented to the team with the most points overall.  The evening continues with a barbecue and live entertainment.  On Saturday, events include a yacht race, a ‘Parade of Sail’, market stalls, children’s activities, lug sailing and much more.  A number of local and visiting vessels will be berthed, while the Swan will be berthed and open to visitors.  The weekend of activities come to a close on Sunday with songs of praise at the marina, renditions from a choral choir and refreshments.

 

The visit from the Scottish Chamber Orchestra is a rare opportunity for orchestral music lovers.
The weekend of music-making at Clickimin Leisure Complex in Lerwick includes three ticketed concerts: the string section, the full orchestra and a wind concert.

 

Other events during the opening weekend include the opening of a collection of photos, pictures and articles celebrating 100 years of the Royal National Mission to Deep Sea Fishermen in Lerwick and the unveiling of the ‘Mackerel Seas’ exhibition, which is the result of a community project involving artist Richard Wemyss working together with community groups in Whalsay.  Both exhibits can be viewed at the NAFC Marine Centre in Scalloway from 15 June.

 

Commenting on this year’s programme, committee member Alastair Hamilton said: “We hope that this year’s programme will provide a high quality experience for all those who take part in Shetland’s summer festival.  The Johnsmas Foy is establishing itself as an important part of Shetland’s event calendar and we look forward to the forthcoming celebrations.”

 

Further information from:
Alastair Hamilton, Shetland Islands Council, tel 01595 744924, email
Or, Louise Rosie, Shaw Marketing and Design Ltd, tel 01595 692465 or email