Festivity launches at Bolsover Castle

Festivity is a family-friendly countywide tour celebrating the talents of Derbyshire’s musicians, poets, dancers, visual artists and storytellers.

Elizabeth Fothergill, CBE and HM Lord-Lieutenant of Derbyshire gave a speech at the launch of Festivity on Friday 31 May at Bolsover Castle, and it's so powerful that we thought we'd share it with you too.

'As His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant may I start by saying what a pleasure it is to be here tonight in beautiful Bolsover castle, one of the gems of Derbyshire. Massive thanks to Arts Derbyshire for inviting me and for organising this festival launch, where we can come together to share music, film, performance and the spoken word, the essential elements of arts and culture which so enhance our lives.

As Lord Lieutenants we follow the King’s priorities, and of his five C’s, two, culture and community are so relevant.  He wants to see communities coming together to boost civil society, foster social cohesion, reduce loneliness and to encourage volunteering. And where more do we see the value of volunteering than in the arts and heritage organisations which so enrich our communities.

Derbyshire is a county unbelievably rich in history and heritage, creativity, and culture. From the hills of the Peak District to the industrial legacy of the Derwent Valley Mills in Cromford and the Museum of Making in the Silk Mill in Derby, recognised as the world’s first factory. We have glorious and much loved country houses, some amazing local festivals right across the county and it’s through the arts that we bring stories of the past to life, whilst showcasing and celebrating the remarkable talent and creativity of our artists, writers, musicians, film makers.

It's not just about preserving the past—it’s about enriching our present and shaping our future. Culture and heritage boost the local economy by attracting tourism, supporting small businesses, creating jobs in everything from galleries and theatres to hospitality, conservation and education. Cultural tourism alone brings millions into Derbyshire each year, benefiting our villages, our high streets, hospitality venues, and uplifting communities. The Chatsworth Trust is the biggest employer in the Peak district.

Arts and culture are no nice to have “add on,” they are essential, proven to improve our physical and mental health, reading stimulates the brain, books are vital to children in their early years, boosting their creativity, their speech and language development. Dementia sufferers can be transformed through hearing forgotten poetry or recollecting old songs of their childhood, libraries are essential treasure troves.

I have just had a wonderful week at Derby Book festival and seen the joy that reading and a love of books brings to the lives of many, across age, gender and class. I have seen children totally spellbound listening to their favourite author, talked to teachers about the importance that young children from all our diverse communities can see themselves reflected in the picture books they love, if you can’t see it, you can’t be it, aspiration has to start young, unlocking potential.

Sharing ideas through the spoken word, theatre or film really matters in education. Social inequalities can be tackled by early and regular exposure to the arts. We have all no doubt felt entranced seeing a piece of art in a gallery or museum, (for me its Joseph Wright of Derby, the painter of the enlightenment), great art changes lives, something unique touches us, stimulating curiosity, creativity, a desire to start on a journey of discovery.

Hearing that spine-tingling piece of live music, of whatever genre, whether in a festival tent, grand concert hall or church makes us breathe more deeply, you feel transfixed and uplifted by the beauty and power of music, most especially when enjoyed with others, it can lift one’s mood, bring a sense of contentment, create a sublime moment in time.

Yet sadly so many museums, galleries and theatres are at risk of closure, investment is so badly needed and yet once delivered its always repaid many times over. Artists are endlessly resilient, inventive and innovative, we must ensure they have opportunities to grow and develop their craft. Our brilliant employers need a vibrant arts and cultural scene to attract new talent to their companies.

But beyond economics, the arts give us a sense of identity and belonging, connecting us to each other and to where we live. They help us understand who we are, where we’ve come from, and what we want to be.

So, whether it’s local artists showcasing their work, community theatres bringing people together, or children delighting in a museum collection, the impact is immense.  Creativity and cultural engagement improve health and well- being, strengthens social bonds, inspires pride in our county and makes us feel happy. I believe in the power of passionate motivated people to effect positive change in our society and with a commitment to the arts and heritage we can make a difference.'

Thank you to Elizabeth Fothergill CBE, HM Lord Lieutenant of Derbyshire for permission to share this speech.

Click here for more information about what's happening across the summer during the Festivity season.