St Edmund's

From 25 June to 1 July, St Edmund’s School Canterbury once again transformed into a vibrant celebration of the arts, with this year’s Festival on the Hill showcasing a dazzling array of musical, theatrical, and community events that delighted audiences of all ages.

Opening Night Spotlight

The festival launched to resounding acclaim with The Bootleg Beatles paying affectionate tribute to the legendary Fab Four in the school theatre—a performance that set a high bar for the rest of the week.

Stars of the Stage

Highlights included:

• Ronnie Scott’s All-Stars, featuring some of the finest names in British jazz.
• The return of Mark De‑Lisser, leading a powerful day of communal singing; his previous work with Ariana Grande, Jessie J, and Beverley Knight added extra gravitas.
• Community-driven events like St Ed’s Got Talent and a spirited staging of The Canterbury Tales by talented pupils rounded out the programme.

Community and Culture at the Core

The festival’s ethos—merging world-class artistry with local participation—was evident in the range of events:

• Legendary performers including Sheku and Isata Kanneh‑Mason, Courtney Pine, Curtis Stigers, Freddie Kempf, Jess Gillam, and Tasmin Little headlined concerts throughout the week.
• Family and community events, from sporting challenges to creative arts workshops, ensured there was something for everyone.

Audience and Atmosphere

Well-attended and warmly received, this year’s Festival on the Hill continued to build on its strong reputation in Canterbury and beyond. Feedback praised the blend of professional performances and grassroots engagement, creating both inspiration and connection for attendees and participants alike.

Looking Ahead

With this year’s success, excitement is already mounting for 2026. Organisers have hinted at even more ambitious collaborations for the coming year—so mark your calendars and stay tuned via www.stedmundsfestival.org.uk.

In summary, 2025’s Festival on the Hill championed St Edmund’s ethos of creativity and community. From electrifying headline acts to meaningful local involvement, it reaffirmed its place as a highlight of the Canterbury summer cultural calendar.