Students of Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury College and Canterbury Academy have come together to create an exciting new two-day Festival, programmed, planned and delivered by young people, for young people.

We:Connect Festival will run on the 25 and 26 June, taking place across the Canterbury Christ Church North Holmes campus and Canterbury College’s Lanfranc Theatre. Expect live music, theatre, dance, drag, talks, workshops and more in an exciting programme of events.

We:Connect is just one part of Reconnect Presents – a Kent-wide project funded by Kent County Council, providing young people with opportunities that they missed during the Covid pandemic and two years of lockdown. We:Connect is delivered in partnership with Canterbury Festival and in collaboration with Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury College and Canterbury Academy.

Over the weekend We:Connect presents live music showcasing local student talent alongside acts including Moon Hooligan, Dear Pariah and ALHAMATA. You’ll also have the chance to learn some top Drag tips and catch a show from Dover’s newest Drag Cabaret group, the Anxious Pickle Club.

For lovers of the stage, Canterbury College will be showcasing new theatre works and the cast of David Walliams’ Billionaire Boy will be taking a break from their Marlowe run to share their experiences of working in a touring West End production. Across the weekend you’ll also have the chance to get involved in a number of workshops including Samba and African Drumming, Zine-making and more.

Tickets for many of these events and workshops are limited so advanced booking is advised. We:Connect is intended to be accessible for young people from across Canterbury with tickets ranging from £2.70 to a maximum of £5 for events. Ages vary from event to event, so please check before booking. Alcohol is not permitted at events taking place at We:Connect Festival.

For more information and ticket booking, visit canterburyfestival.co.uk.

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