Organisers of this year’s Lumiere light festival are calling on those looking to volunteer as Festival Makers and be part of the spectacular event to register their interest.

Durham will host the UK’s leading light festival across four nights from 18 – 21 November 2021. The festival is produced by Artichoke and commissioned by Durham County Council with additional support from Arts Council England and a raft of funders and supporters. Its return will give visitors the opportunity to experience an ambitious programme featuring international and local artists in an outdoor environment after the long months of lockdown.

Volunteers make a vital contribution to Lumiere which is why in the build-up to this year’s event, Durham County Council is working with festival producers Artichoke to recruit volunteer Festival Makers to help make Durham shine once more. Organisers want to hear from those aged 18 and over who have a friendly personality and a passion for the festival, as well as different skills and life experiences.

As experts in producing outdoor events, Artichoke will ensure appropriate measures are in place to allow audiences to enjoy the festival safely in accordance with guidelines around coronavirus.

The roles are ideal for someone who is volunteering for the first time, seasoned professionals, or those who have volunteered during the pandemic and want to do some more. The roles will include welcoming visitors to the city, directing people to the Lumiere installations, and also being the face of the festival.

Call Out For Volunteers To Keep Lumiere Shining!
Volunteer Festival Makers, Lumiere Durham 2019. Produced by Artichoke. Photo by Matthew Andrews

Lumiere is produced by Artichoke and is a key part of Durham County Council’s festival and events programme supported by Arts Council England and reflects the local authority’s commitment to cultural-led regeneration. As well as creating unforgettable experiences for residents, festivals will play a vital role in the region’s economic recovery from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, with the influx of visitors supporting retail and hospitality businesses and the world-class entertainment raising the county’s reputation as a cultural destination.

Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “We are very excited to welcome Lumiere back to Durham this November after the difficulties of the past year or so and it is really something for everyone to look forward to.

“We understand that many of our volunteers have been unable to carry out their regular activities for some time, but as we start to return to normal more opportunities will present themselves, the most exciting of which is Lumiere, which is always a fantastic event.

“Festival Makers are a huge part of Lumiere, welcoming visitors and providing helpful advice. So if you are a seasoned volunteer wishing to return as a Festival Maker or someone new to volunteering, we want to hear from you.”

People can find out more and sign up to be a Festival Maker at www.durham.gov.uk/festivalmaker

For further information about volunteering opportunities go to www.durham.gov.uk/volunteering


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