4, 5 and 6 May

One of the largest May Day celebrations of its kind

Festival highlights include: � More than 50 Morris dancing sides � Great evening concerts �

� Free music in pubs and bars � Fun children’s activities � Jack-in-the-Green �

New for 2013:

choir competition

and food & lifestyle fair

www.enjoymedway.co.uk

It hardly seems possible that it’s 33 yearssince local businessman Gordon Newtonrevived the spring celebration that originallybegan 400 years ago when children wereused as chimney sweeps.

The festival recreates the joy and laughterenjoyed by the chimney sweeps on theirtraditional holiday. It was the one time ofthe year that the sweeps could leave thesoot behind and have some fun by parading through Rochester. Their fun alsoinvolved the Jack-in-the-Green ceremony.Jack was a huge character who they used toawaken at dawn on Blue Bell Hill, Chatham.In 1981 keen historian Gordon Newtondecided it was time to bring the festival

back and over the years he has helpeddevelop it into what it is today – anextravaganza of traditional Britain.

Today, as well as producing the festival,Gordon finds time to play the melodeon forseveral of the moris teams, while DougHudson has held the role of festival’s musicdirector for many years. Both Gordon andDoug work closely with Medway Council’sEvents Team, who organise the event.

As Rochester’s Sweeps Festival marks its33rd year, it is fitting that it has become thelargest May Day celebration of its kind inthe country.

Sat, 4 May, 8pm THE SINGING LOINS with supportfrom Lupen CrookFor years the Singing Loins have been thejewel in the Medway musical crown. This ispure performance passion that doffs a hatto punk, folk, cabaret, theatre and musichall. As fresh today as ever, this will be anight to remember. Tickets: £10, Rochester Corn Exchange

Sat, 4 May, 7.30pm NO WORRIES with support from John BardenBrian and Marion Rodgers in concert - richharmonies, sensitive guitar arrangements,combined with poignant or witty reparteeand the swell of welcome audience voicesjoining them in chorus, guarantees a veryspecial musical experience.Tickets: £8, Edith May Sailing Barge

Sun, 5 May, 8pm TIM EDEY with support from AlisterAtkin & The Ghost Line CarnivalOne of the greatest folk instrumentalists ofthe 21st Century, Tim has been BBC 2 FolkMusician of the Year. He is an amazingguitarist, melodeon player and composerwith a captivating and breathless stage show.Tickets: £10, Rochester Corn Exchange

Sun, 5 May, 7.30pmLUKE JACKSONThe brilliant, feted, fast rising 18-year-oldsinger/songwriter from Canterbury looksdestined for stardom having beennominated for both BBC and Horizon FolkAwards. His incisive songs are deliveredwith a dynamic stage persona and greatguitar work that belie his years.Tickets: £10, Edith May Thames Sailing Barge

New for 2013Buskers’ Corner and a Choir Competition. Amateur choirs will take to the stage at the CornExchange on Bank Holiday Monday to showcase their vocal talents and wow the judges andthe crowd with variety of genres, from traditional and modern folk songs to sea shanties.

Over the years this festival, with its Morris dancing, music and ever-expandingactivities, has become one of the most established May festivals in Europe.

No Worries

The Singing Loins

Tim Edey Luke Jackson

Welcome Festival highlights

Tickets available online at www.medwayticketslive.co.uk, by phone 01634 338338or in person from the Visitor Information Centre the Central and Brook Theatres and the Edith May Thames Sailing Barge.

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Rochester Castle Gardens10am - 5pmTraditional family fun fair by Smith’s Fairs.

Food, drink and lifestyle fairStalls will be selling a variety of wares withthe opportunity to taste and try before buy.

Mini psychic fairPsychic / Clairvoyant – Raymond Worthy*Raymond believes that the angels speakthrough him. His gifts give him the uniqueopportunity to have a positive effect on thelives of others.

Astrology and Tarot – Demian Allan*Demian’s aim is to help others to lead amore rewarding spiritual life.*Please note: There are no guaranteed or certain results,this is for the purpose of amusement / entertainment.

Woodland Wands Hand-made wooden wands and staffs, alsoesoteric gifts, incense, essential oils, crystalproducts and jewellery.

Pixie Hut A small family run business centred aroundspiritual development and growth, designedto help you on your own magical, mysticaljourney through life. www.pixiehut.co.uk

Record FairMini music fair hosted by Recollect Records.Records, CDs, DVDs and memorabilia.

The Clog FactoryRoger Dower will be demonstrating clogmaking and selling his hand-made clogs.

Real Ale BarA variety of ales and ciders brewed andbottled in Medway’s very own Nelson’sBrewery.

Corn Exchange - Princes HallTraditional musical instrument fair.

High streetMorris sides from around the countryperformers throughout the day.

Boley Hill - Buskers Stage10am-5pmInvited buskers performing throughout the day.

Kings Head and Boley HillCar ParksRochester Farmers Market10am – 5pmLocal farmers and producers have grown,bred, processed, pickled, brewed or baked thegoods themselves to sell direct to the public.

Rochester EsplanadeThe Edith May Thames Sailing Barge Moored at Rochester Pier, she will be openbetween 10am and 5pm, with a programmeof free folk music. Evening concerts (ticketonly) will take place on Saturday andSunday. Please be aware that due to the natureof the vessel, there is no disabled access ontothe barge. www.edithmay.com

The Guildhall Museum Guitar workshop - 2pm Build your own electric guitar in two hours!£20 includes all materials and tuition.Booking advised as places are limited.Phone: 01634 570331Visit: www.astickinabox.com

Friday, 3 May

7.30pmThe Terry Pearson Memorial Concert withThe Simon Care Trio and special guests, MCGordon NewtonTickets: £5, Rochester Corn ExchangeBox Office - 01634 338338

7.30pm Gordon Hotel - Pre-festival music from theSongwriters’ DenCoopers Arms – A pre festival play-alongwith P.J.

8.45pm – 11pmPrince of Wales, Strood – Sur Les DocksSingapora Lounge – Bubble BandGood Intent – Singaround session withJohn BardenMan of Kent Alehouse - Ash Mandrake

Pre-festival entertainment

Festival guideThroughout the Festival

all three days

Simon Care

Terry Pearson

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New

New

Saturday, 4 May

10.45amGuildhall Museum Forecourt, High StreetThe Mayor of Medway will officially openthe festival, followed by a dance showcase

11am – 5pmCity Wall Wine Bar, StageSongwriters’ Den ‘On the Road’. The best ofyoung talent from Kent, hosted by Griff Rising

11am – 5pmCastle Gardens Main StageBounty Hounds, Fabulous Fezheads, Sur LesDocks, Coco & The Butterfields, AdamBeattie & The Consultants

11am – 5pmEdith May Thames Sailing BargeCapella, Brooke Sharkey

12.30 – 2.30pmThe Crown Freehouse – SelkiThe Eagle Tavern – Skinners Rats withDavey SlaterGordon House Hotel – Cajun DawgsTwo Brewers – River Breeze Blues BandPrince of Wales, Strood – Andy Smythe TrioOliver’s Bar – Atlantic Currants

Kings Head – Ash MandrakeGood Intent – Singaround with Ruff N’ReddySingapora Lounge – Hobo Jones & TheJunkyard Dogs

1 – 3pmYe Arrow – Ian Petrie Band

2 – 4pmMan of Kent Alehouse – Funke & The TwoTone Baby

2.15pm Outside Medway Visitor Information CentreGuided walking tour of Rochester led by theCity of Rochester Society. The tour will lastfor approximately 90minutes. Free of chargealthough donations to the society welcome.

3 – 5pm Coopers Arms – Chris Taylor (Irish MusicSession)Gordon House Hotel – TanglefootAppalachian

4 – 6pmThe Crown Freehouse – Atlantic CurrantsEagle Tavern – Thee WaltonsYe Arrow – Border CrossingKing’s Head – Happy Trails

6 – 8pmOliver’s Bar – Perfect Strangers

7.30 – 10pmCoopers Arms – Playalong session with P.J.and Capella (8.45pm)

8 – 11.30pmGordon House Hotel – Gentlemen Duke,Eric Ness, Coco & The Butterfields

8.45 – 11pmMan of Kent Alehouse – Sur Les DocksPrince of Wales, Strood – Selki Good Intent – Singaround with John Barden Two Brewers – PhoenixSingapora Lounge – Cajun Dawgs

Sunday, 5 May

11am – 5pmCity Wall Wine Bar, StageSongwriters’ Den ‘On the Road’. The best ofyoung talent from Kent hosted by Griff Rising

11am – 5pmCastle Gardens Festival Main StageThe Beards, Fabulous Fezheads, GalleyBeggar, Jerry Harmon, The Hot Rats

11am – 5pmEdith May Thames Sailing BargeSwinging The Lead, Adam Beattie & TheConsultants, The Beards

12.30 – 2.30pmThe Crown Freehouse – Tombstone LiquorThe Eagle Tavern – Sur Les DocksTwo Brewers – TrialityPrince of Wales, Strood – Ian Petrie BandOliver’s Bar – Pierre VincentKings Head – Barry Laing & Davey SlaterGood Intent – Singaround with John BardenSingapora Lounge – J.D. & The Longfellows

12noon – 1pmGordon House Hotel – Moveable Feast

1 – 3pmYe Arrow – Brides of Rain

2 – 4pmMan of Kent Alehouse – Hartley Singers

2.15pm Outside Medway Visitor Information CentreGuided walking tour of Rochester led by theCity of Rochester Society. The tour will lastfor approximately 90minutes. Free of chargealthough donations to the society welcome.

Coco & The Butterfields

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3.30 – 5pmGordon House Hotel - TanglefootAppalachian

3 – 5pmCoopers Arms – Irish Music Session withChris Taylor

4 – 6pmThe Crown Freehouse – Davey Malone &The LongtailsThe Eagle Tavern – Bounty HoundsKing’s Head – Nigel Hobbins & TheDreamlandersYe Arrow – Skinners Rats

6 – 6.30pmGordon House Hotel – Didi BergmanGood Intent – Tanglefoot Appalachian

6 – 8pmOliver’s Bar – Old Country Crows

7.30 –10pmCoopers Arms – Playalong session with P.J.and Swinging The Lead (8.45pm)

8 – 11.30pmGordon Hotel – Sur Les Docks and theBubble Band

8.45 – 11pmMan of Kent Alehouse – J.D. & TheLongfellowsPrince of Wales, Strood – Rustic RamblersGood Intent – Singaround with John Barden Two Brewers – Tombstone LiquorSingapora Lounge – Triality

Monday, 6 May

10.30am – 5pmRochester Castle MoatStreet dance the Maypole. Street andCeilidh dancing for all.

11am – 5pmChoir CompetitionCorn Exchange, Queens HallPre-registered choirs will sing songs with afolk theme and will be judged to find thewinner for 2013. The event is open tospectators, tea and coffee will be availablefor purchase.

11am – 5pmCity Wall Wine Bar, StageWomen Aloud - A new event shcowcasingmainly female talent with the Tribal Banshees,Camine, Liz Simcock, Shadrack Tye and DidiBergman. Hosted by Lee Charles.

10am – 5pmGuildhall Stage - Street Ceilidh withThreepenny Bit, Tribal Banshees

11am – 5pmFestival Main Stage, Castle Gardens – AllenFamily, Jerry Harmon, Bubble Band, PierreVincent, Brides of Rain

11am – 5pm Edith May Thames Sailing BargePierre Vincent, Border Crossing, AllenFamily, Davey Malone’s Floating Ukuleles.

12.30 – 2.30pmThe Crown Freehouse – Funke & The TwoTone BabyEagle Tavern – Happy TrailsGordon House Hotel – The Hot RatsPrince of Wales, Strood – The Old CountryCrowsOliver’s Bar – Barry Laing & Davey Slater Man of Kent Alehouse – Galley BeggarTwo Brewers – Ash MandrakeKings Head – Andy Smythe TrioGood Intent – Singaround with Ruff ‘n’ ReddyYe Arrow – Missouri GutsSingapora Lounge – Bounty Hounds

2.15pm Outside Medway Visitor Information CentreGuided walking tour of Rochester led by theCity of Rochester Society. The tour will lastfor approximately 90minutes. Free of chargealthough donations to the society welcome.

2.45pm Rochester Sweeps Festival’s traditionalBank Holiday ProcessionThe finale to the Sweeps Festival 2013 willinvolve many Morris Sides, chimneysweeps and Jack-in-the-Green. A change tothis year’s route will be as follows: Forming at the Star Hill end of RochesterHigh Street, the procession will proceedalong the High Street to its junction withCorporation Street. It will then turn left intothe Rochester Esplanade, left into CastleHill and finish in Castle Grounds where theMayor of Medway and Gordon Newton,Festival Director, will present the GreenMan Shield.

Brooke Shorkey

New

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Saturday, 4 8am Morning Prayer8.30am Holy Communion 3.15pm Choral Evensong

Sunday, 58am Holy Communion9.45am Choral Mattins10.30am The Cathedral Eucharist3.15pm Choral Evensong8pm Taize Prayer

Monday, 69.10am Morning Prayer9.30am Holy Communion3.15pm Choral Evensong

Musical biogsTim Edey – BBC Radio 2 Folk AwardMusician of the Year winner, Tim hastoured with the Chieftains, SharonShannon and has recorded with ChristyMoore. Simply, he is one of the bestmusicians you will ever see.

The Singing Loins – Music hall, cabaret,theatre, folk, punk, comedy reflecting thedarker underbelly of Medway.

No Worries – Purely and simply Brianand Marion Rodgers are an excellentfolk duo who take pride in their songsand performance.

Luke Jackson – 2013 Horizon and FolkAward nominee. A developing talent andan utterly compelling singer/songwriter.

Simon Care Trio – From the Albion Bandto Edward II, Simon’s talent is no strangerto the Sweeps Festival.

Hot Rats - Festival favourites feature IanCutler’s world class fiddle playing.

Thee Waltons – Crazy band of Gravesendmusicians wth a unique blend of vegabilly,excessive drinking and cross dressing.

Jerry Harmon – Visiting American singerand storyteller extraordinaire.

Coce & The Butterfields – One of the mostexciting bands to have emerged in the lastcouple of years – new and innovative.

Allen Family – Superb teenage bluegrassoutfit guided by American father Pete Allen.

Gentlemen Duke – Swing/folk with passion.

Adam Beattie & The Consultants –London’s finest nu-folk sensation .

John Barden – Singaround supremo andcharismatic figure who encourages othersto play.

Threepenny Bit – Busking ceilidh band of international renown. Join in the funand dance.

Alister Atkin & The Ghost Line Carnival –Quality songwriting and craftedperformance from a classy outfit.

Held throughout each day - offering readingsfrom the Jesus Deck, foot and hand massageand prayer for healing in the Christiantradition. Free of charge, everyone welcome.

Sat, 4 May, 10am – 5pm and Sun, 5 May, 1 – 5pmSt Margaret’s Church, St Margaret’s Street, RochesterThe church will be open between the above times to visitors who wish to come and lookround. Light refreshments will be available as well as a display of photographs of local interest.

Rochester Cathedral service andevent times

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Stay up-to-date with all the news, events and entertainment. Straight to your inbox. Visit www.medway.gov.uk/signup

Festival dance list Name Type of dance CountyKettlebridge Clog Northwest Clog KentKent Korkers & Pork Scratchin’s Border & North West Clog KentLady Bay Revellers Cotswold NottinghamLoose Women Border KentMaenads Border KentMaldon Green Jackets Cotswold EssexManor Mill Morris North West Clog CambridgeMarlings Morris North West Clog KentMotley Morris Border KentMutineers North West Clog LeicestershireMythago Bedlam Border East SussexOld Palace Clog North West Clog SurreyOffcumduns Morris North West Clog KentOojah Kappivy Cotswold East SussexPriory Morris, Soken Molly Gang Border & Molly EssexPretty Grim Border SuffolkPump House Clog North West Clog HertfordshireRampant Rooster Cotswold & Border SurreyRockingham Rapper Rapper HertfordshireRoyal Oak Morris Cotswold NorthantsRoyal Liberty Morris Cotswold, Border, Molly Sword EssexSpirimawgus Border West SussexSt Clement Clog North West Clog KentSteam Punk Border KentStockport Morris North West Clog StockportThe Wild Hunt Bedlam Border SurreyWestrefelda Cotswold SuffolkWhitethorn Morris North West Clog BucksWitchmen Border NorthantsWolfs Head & Vixen Border KentYoung Miscellany Mixed Traditions Herts

Name Type of dance CountyAlton Morris Border BerkshireAlive & Kicking North West Clog EssexAnnies Fantasies North West Clog EssexBaldock Midnight Morris Cotswold BedfordshireBishop Gundulf’s Morris Ladies North West Clog & Garland KentBishop Gundulf’s Morris Men Long sword & Rapper KentBlack Forest & Belasuza Mummers Modern Morris & Folk Dancing EssexBlack Pig Border Border DerbyBoekka Border & ‘Oss Teazin’ CornwallBows ‘N’ Bells North West Clog EssexCinque Ports Morris Cotswold SussexCockleshell Clog North West Clog EssexCopperfield Clog North West KentCustoms & Exiles North West & Border HampshireDacre Morris Cotswold LondonDark Horse Morris Border EssexDeadhorse & Broomdashers East Kent Black Face KentEast Kent Morris Men Cotswold KentThe Fabulous Fezheads Sand dancing (Kentish) KentGong Scourers Border KentGreenwich Morris Cotswold KentHands Around Cotswold, Border EssexHeadcorn Morris Cotswold KentHertfordshire Holly North West Clog HertfordshireHook Eagle Morris Men Border Hampshire

at The Brook Theatre

Enjoy monthly folk evenings at The BrookTheatre. Join our free folk mailing list and save£1 on each ticket. Phone 01634 338338or email folk@medway.gov.uk

Old Town Hall, Chatham, Kent

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14 15

Build your own 3-string electric guitar at the Sweeps Festival for just £20

Visit www.astickinabox.comPhone 01634 570331 or 07974 020 368

Price includes all materials and full tuition

4, 5 and 6 May, 2pm at The Guildhall MuseumRochester High Street

This fun two-hour course is suitable for everyone, no building or playing experience necessary.

Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult

Learn about the history of these simple handmade instruments and discover why everyone from Seasick Steve to Jack White has joined the revolution.

Places are limited so booking is essential.

All your lighting needs under one roof

Kent’s largest lightingshowrooms are in

Rochester High Street

Thousands of books on all subjectsplus children’s and fiction.

01634 8111651 bagginsbooks.co.uk19 Rochester High Street, between theGuildhall Museum and Pizza Express

England’s largestsecondhand bookshop

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Email: visitor.centre@medway.gov.uk

Disclaimer: Every care has been taken to ensure that the details given are correct at the time of printing. How

ever, circumstances can and do

change and the publishers cannot accept responsibility for any subsequent amendments.

Rochester H

igh Street is categorised as an Alcohol Control Zone. Although close working partnership between Medway Council, Kent Police

and Pub Landlords has allowed drinking in outdoor areas within the festival area between 10am and 6pm only. D

rinking restrictions will revert

back to norm

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G8004 0313 Designed by Medway Council’s Communications Team. www.medway.gov.uk/communicationsThanks to John Tate, David Wilson and S Kingman for contributing photographs to the programme

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