There was plenty of fire as promised and buckets full of rain – but the weather failed to dampen the spirits of the crowds who turned out for an open air spectacular at Chester-le-Street market place.
Firebirds, presented by one of Europe’s top street theatre companies, Theater Titanick, lived up to all its advance billing as it played to an audience of around 4,000 people.
Firebirds unfolded around a competitive two-hour parade featuring six fire-spraying, mighty flying machines, all piloted by extravagant daredevils vying for the crowd’s favour.
The two-hour show was an enthralling spectacle capped by a magnificent fireworks display and will provide a talking point for residents and visitors alike for many years to come.
Andrew Megginson, co-ordinator for the Chester-le-Street and District Area Action Partnership that helped fund the event, said: “It was a great night in spite of the awful weather. Titanick were able to do the full show and everyone enjoyed themselves.
“There was a great turnout and a mix of people and age groups. As organisers we were delighted with the way things went. A number of shops stayed open and we have had some very positive comments back from traders.
“The Heart of Chester-le-Street venue was superb and we have shown we can stage big events. I would like to pass on my thanks to local residents, particularly those in the Cone Terrace area
for being so supportive of this event,” he said.
Firebirds was a dazzling curtain raiser to a series of free local events taking place under the BRASS 2010: Durham International Festival banner.
On Friday and Saturday (July 16 and 17) Chester-le-Street will be hosting eight bands who will entertain shoppers and visitors with street concerts from 11am.
United Vibrations, Horn Dogs, the Quiche Lorraines and Le Bobs are among those lining up to get the feet tapping. Their stages will include the Market Place, St Cuthbert’s shopping mall and outside the Lambton Arms, the Queen’s Head and the Black Horse.
All we need is the sun to shine!
