Mrs Sunderland Festival 2026 Celebrates Performing Arts with Stellar Events
The Mrs Sunderland Festival showcased exceptional talent and creativity in the performing arts during its 2026 edition. Over 5,000 performances spanned 12 days at Huddersfield Town Hall, featuring 46 sessions across three venues. This year’s festival began on February 1 with an adult singing workshop led by Thom Meredith, where over 100 singers collaborated with the Musica Kirklees Youth Orchestra.
Highlights of the Festival
The festival offered a diverse array of workshops and performances, engaging participants of all ages. Notable events included:
- Special Needs Workshops: On February 11, local special schools partnered with The Dark Horse Theatre Company to perform their prepared pieces.
- Tiny Strings, Big Voices: On February 12, over 800 Key Stage 2 children participated, showcasing their skills through song and ukulele at the concert hall.
- Vocal Classes: The festival witnessed over 140 classes, drawing participants from various regions, including Halifax, Sheffield, and Hull during the weekend of February 14-15.
- Young Musician of the Year: February 15 marked the annual competition with £1,800 in prizes awarded. Toby Johnson Jones, a talented French horn player, secured the top spot.
Workshops and Performances
The festival featured a mix of workshops for pianists, public speakers, and actors, highlighting exceptional skills across categories. A fascinating spoken word segment showcased a range of performances from young children to seasoned individuals, maintaining high entertainment standards.
A highlight on February 16 was the Festival Dance Showcase, which included diverse dance performances such as tap and street dance. Additionally, the Kirklees Orchestral Tutti on February 17 brought together nearly 150 musicians, marking a memorable occasion in the festival’s history.
Community Engagement and Support
Overall, the 2026 Mrs Sunderland Festival was marked by its community spirit, with a significant increase in participation across categories. Over 200 attendees enjoyed the Discofest event on February 20, while the final day featured 32 adult choir performances.
The festival concluded with a concert on February 21, celebrating the best talent from the event. Organizers expressed gratitude to performers, sponsors, and the dedicated staff of Huddersfield Town Hall, whose efforts ensured the festival’s success.
The Mrs Sunderland Festival continues to be a vital platform for the performing arts, fostering talent and creativity within the community.
