Celebratory Tribute to Festival Mastermind

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Published: 13 March 2008 in Somerset Standard
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A celebration of seven years of Frome Festival under the directorship of Martin Bax was staged at Marston House.One hundred people, including family, friends and colleagues from the festival, gathered to enjoy what was described as a musical pot pourri by a selection of Frome's most talented artists, interspersed with tributes to the creator of one of Frome's greatest success stories.

It was Mr Bax, of The Retreat, who masterminded a festival including an eclectic programme of music, dance, film, food, art and crafts.

From the start, Mr Bax said he believed Frome and the surrounding area had enough talent to warrant a 10-day extravaganza.

The festival has gone from strength to strength but last year Mr Bax decided to step back from his involvement with the event.

Last Friday's celebration was a tribute to his seven years of hard work and dedication.

A welcome was given by Bob Morris, the chairman of the festival's board of directors.

Among the performers were Cara Dillon, Sam Lakeman, Stephen Marquiss, Ursula Voight, Fiona Blissett, Iain Ballamy, Gareth Williams, Laurie Parnell, Coralie Hyde, Annabelle Macfadyen, Joe Cavanagh, Helen and Denian Arcoleo, Pee Wee Ellis, Adrian Smith and Jim White.

A toast was given by the current director, Martin Dimery.

Mr Bax was presented with a caricature of himself by artist Sholto Walker, who has designed the programme cover since the festival's start.

Mr Bax described the party as the best he had ever been to.

He said: 'It was wonderful to be among so many friends, I felt really humbled.

'There were so many fantastically talented people performing, too.'