Hurst College is a founding supporter of the Hurst Festival, and each year continues to provide events and venues as part of the lively, vibrant village arts festival. The Hurst Festival is a local community festival that first took place in 2004 and has continued to grow year-on-year, now offering more than 80 events to thousands of locals at venues across the village of Hurstpierpoint. Hurst College hosts several events at the College for the local community including a music concert, tours of the College, drama productions, an art masterclass, and Cake at the College.
The first event at Hurst this year was a tour of the College. As always, this event was fully booked with members of the local community flocking to wander around the fantastic buildings and grounds. Many of the attendees came with specific areas they’d like to visit, or shared memories from childhood of local events held at the College, and it was a nice chance for them to reminisce.
The Music Scholars’ Concert is also another fantastic event, during which pupils play a variety of instruments and some even sing! This event can be a challenging one for the students due to the lack of practice as they have only just started the new academic year, however it is also a brilliant opportunity for the students to play to an audience. This year’s performers all did incredibly well, with the audience thoroughly enjoying their evening.
This year’s drama production was ‘Women of Troy’. There was a brilliant turnout from the local community, with many in attendance praising the show and student’s acting, despite them having only had a few weeks of rehearsals. The Art Masterclass is another very popular event with tickets selling immediately. This year it was hosted by Mrs Wilkinson, and guests we’re given wine and canapes whilst drawing flowers.
Cake at the College was the last event of the year and is the most popular event hosted by Hurst. Hundreds assemble at the Music School for a hot beverage and some cake, served by the current Prefects, and to listen to the students share their musical talents either by voice or instrument.
Another great year for the Hurst Festival and we look forward to doing it again next time!
