The idea
An open-air summer free music festival in Wednesfield Amphitheatre called "Wodenstock".
The main act The First of May Band offer an eclectic mix of folk, blues, reggae and ska, cut with real-life story-telling traditions. They have interviewed countless ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances, and turned their stories into songs reflecting the dramatic and moving stories of communities which tie in to the industrial history of Wednesfield and celebrate Black Country Day.
We as the city's trade union council will get backing and volunteer help from local trade union branches. There will be information stalls to explain to people what trade unions are and how they might join.
We also hope to involve several other Wednesfield community groups with the event. Giving them opportunity to engage with the public and build their own organisations by generating new volunteers and funds from e.g. any sales of food/drink.
What we'll deliver
- free family entertainment at start of school holidays
- celebrate Black Country Day
- opportunity for people to find out about benefits of trade unions
- utilise the under-used Amphitheatre
- joint working of local community groups to benefit area
- we have £5m public liability insurance for the event
Why it's a great idea
A musical celebration of industrial history and the struggles of working people - the essence of Black Country Day.
Steps to get it done
- establish planning group
- complete documentation required by council, SAG etc
- engage with other local groups and volunteers
- book acts and arrange equipment
- start publicity
We will also engage other local acts and hopefully this event will become an annual culture, arts and literary festival for the area.
