REGGAE legend David Rodigan, ska icons The Selecter and rapper Chip are set to headline this year’s Godiva in the City event.
The two-day celebration of music, culture and creativity – which replaces this year’s Godiva Festival – takes place in Coventry city centre on Saturday July 4 and Sunday July 5.
Organiser Coventry City Council says the free event will celebrate Coventry’s musical heritage and creative scene, supporting local organisations and showcasing emerging local talent alongside nationally acclaimed artists.
The music programme will be headlined by David Rodigan, Coventry’s The Selecter – whose influence helped establish the city as the home of Two Tone – and pioneering UK rapper Chip.
The weekend will also shine a spotlight on the next generation of the city’s talent, with performances from local artists and this year’s Godiva Calling winners.
Performances will take place across two dedicated music stages at Millennium Place and Gosford Street Car Park – the only ticketed areas of the event – from 12pm to 8pm each day.
All other activities and attractions will be freely accessible throughout the city centre.
Coun John McNicholas, Cabinet Member responsible for events at Coventry City Council, said: “Godiva in the City is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate our city’s creativity, culture and musical talent.
“We’re using the event to showcase the creativity of the city – the music makers or those who have inspired the city, creative companies based in the city or those with connections who share our values. Coventry has a proud musical heritage that is recognised around the world, from Two Tone to the incredible artists emerging from the city today.
“We’re incredibly proud to present a completely free programme that puts Coventry talent centre stage whilst bringing nationally recognised artists into the heart of our city.
“The event reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting the local creative sector and creating opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy events in the city centre.
“Whether you’re interested in the music, the family activities or simply want to experience the atmosphere, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.”
Visitors can attend family-friendly activities across some of Coventry’s most iconic locations.
The Cathedral Ruins will be a Secret Garden, where families can ‘take a storybook journey, meet whimsical characters and discover the wonders of nature through dance, shows and hands on activities’.
Coventry’s Fabularium, Ego Theatre, Ascension Dance and Highly Sprung will all be part of the programme, with each organisation delivering a bespoke performance for the event.
A highlight will be Unity – a large-scale circus spectacle, featuring high-wire walking, dance-trapeze and aerial stunts, performed to a piece from former Poet Laureate, John Bernard.
The Godiva Festival, which has taken place at War Memorial Park each summer for over 25 years, has been put ‘on pause’ this year due to what the council described as ‘rising costs and industry challenges’.
The council says the hiatus will allow for a full review of how the festival can be ‘delivered sustainably in the future’.
Visit www.godivafestival.com for more information on Godiva in the City, and to book tickets.
