The Leeds News (Leeds, AL)

Local News

July 2, 2009

Folk festival committee preparing to top last year’s success

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By Jennifer Brady/The Leeds News

Last year may have been the first year of the Leeds Downtown Folk Festival and John Henry Celebration, but this year promises to be an even bigger event that draws crowds, once again, from all over the southeast.

Everyone is invited to celebrate the roots, richness and variety of American culture September 19 and 20 as artisans from all over the country demonstrate basket weaving, metal smithing, felters, wood carvers and potters, just to name a few.

The festival features a broad array of fine artisans demonstrating and selling original works of art, and performances by a storyteller and a variety of folk musicians.

An original play about John Henry, directed by Leeann Christenson, will be performed on the grounds of the Leeds historic depot. Located just 15 minutes from downtown Birmingham.

Last year’s celebration brought in thousands of visitors and the festival has even been honored with the distinction of being chosen as one of the Top Ten Events for September by the Alabama Tourism Department and featured on www.alabama.travel.

This year’s festival will feature over 45 artisans, a tour of Leeds Historic Depot, a display of student artwork sponsored by the Leeds Board of Education and three performances of “Listen to that Cold Steel Ring,” a play written by Marie Cromer that drew a large crowd at every performance last year.

Festival hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 12 noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free, and it is suggested that visitors bring a folding chair because you may want to stay all day.

For more information about the festival call (205) 699-1892 or www.leedsfolkfestival.com.

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