Anniversary event for Kingshill House (From Gazette Series)

Anniversary event for Kingshill House

A GLORIOUS weekend was the verdict from Kingshill House's 300th anniversary event, complementing the summer weather.

The weekend was opened with a lively speech by Gazette editor Skip Walker and entertainment from the Old Spot theatre company.

Many people, particularly families, who had not visited Dursley's community arts centre before enjoyed everything on offer on Saturday and Sunday - cream teas, barbecue, face-painting and a bouncy castle; as well as arts and crafts drop-in workshops run by Laura Allen, making felt and painting glass.

Dance workshops run by Sarah Jacobs from Gloucestershire Dance were also popular, as was the quilting and art exhibitions. Artists Sheena Maynard and Rita Dee attracted interest in their art demonstrations.

Sally Prout's School of Dancing presented displays of ballet and jazz, by children and young people, to a packed audience; and the Oxford Waits musicians wandered about the house, playing 18th century music on authentic instruments.

A constant flow of visitors got involved in the celebrations, also taking part in a stained glass workshop.

Regular dance and arts & craft classes will take place from the autumn, if there is enough interest.

Organiser Jill Frank said: "The acoustic of Kingshill House is wonderful for music and theatre; and the whole place felt very happy last weekend - when people were leaving, many of them thanked us and commented on the welcoming, friendly atmosphere.

"We look forward to welcoming them all back here."