Celebrating 40 years of Jack Drum Arts with a cream tea!

Jack Drum Arts celebrated 40 years of creativity, community and connection with a special 40Fest event this week attended by more than 80 people, bringing together partner organisations, artists, staff, friends , funders and supporters from across the organisation’s four decade history. The event was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with old friends, share memories and celebrate the many people who have been part of our story over the years. Guests enjoyed a cream tea prepared and served by our fantastic team of volunteers, alongside live performances from Joe & The Other One, Max and Brendan, Ruby and Henry, and a closing showcase from Nordestinos.

The celebration also provided an opportunity to reflect on Jack Drum Arts’ journey, from its grassroots beginnings as a rural touring theatre company to the vibrant community arts organisation it is today. Speeches from Director Helen Helen, co-founder Julie Ward, Chair Michele Armstrong and Deputy Lieutenant Anita Atkinson reflected on the organisation’s history, its commitment to fun, happiness and creativity, and the lasting impact it has had on generations of local people. We were particularly proud to hear personal stories from participants and alumni Ruby Wilson, Sinead Livingston, Pat Stembridge, Joe Myers, Shelley O’Brien and Jane Crawford, who shared the difference Jack Drum Arts has made in their lives. 40Fest was a fitting celebration of the people, creativity and community at the heart of Jack Drum Arts, and a chance to look back with pride while looking forward to the next chapter.