About The Festival

Culture and Community, the South Downs Way!

Established in 2006

The Steyning Festival, conceived in 2006, aimed to strengthen community bonds, boost pride, attract visitors, and support local businesses. Led by Ann Poupard and local residents, the first festival in 2007 celebrated Steyning’s heritage, local talent, and visiting artists, goals that remain relevant.

In 2015 progress to date was reviewed and evaluated to develop and formalise a business plan, which set out our purpose and aspirations for the next few years. This updated plan is anticipated to cover the next 5-year period as the festival continues to grow and evolve. The plan also reflects our aim to continue to ensure our sustainability and longevity, whilst remaining true to the original ethos of inclusivity and community.

Our Aims
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High Quality
To build on and sustain the Festival’s reputation for delivering high quality cultural activities in Steyning.
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Diversity
To continue to expand the audience by offering an inclusive and diverse programme of events.
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Futureproof

To be financially successful so that the future of the Festival is secure and to allow for future ambitions and expansion.

Our Mission

The Steyning Festival, conceived in 2006, aimed to strengthen community bonds, boost pride, attract visitors, and support local businesses. Led by Ann Poupard and local residents, the first festival in 2007 celebrated Steyning’s heritage, local talent, and visiting artists, goals that remain relevant.

In 2015 progress to date was reviewed and evaluated to develop and formalise a business plan, which set out our purpose and aspirations for the next few years. This updated plan is anticipated to cover the next 5-year period as the festival continues to grow and evolve. The plan also reflects our aim to continue to ensure our sustainability and longevity, whilst remaining true to the original ethos of inclusivity and community.

Our Structure, People And Values

We are a local Festival bringing a fortnight of diverse, high quality programmed events to Steyning. We will showcase Local, National and International Talent. The Festival is a Community Festival; run by the community, with and for the community.

We incorporate a Quality Artistic Festival at our core with a complementary and supportive programme of events. The genres cover Theatre, Music, Visual Arts, Walks & Tours, Literature and Talks, and Community Events.The Festival is largely focused on the people of Steyning, Bramber, Beeding, Ashurst, Washington & Ashington.