About Halesworth Arts Festival

The Halesworth Arts Festival originated 10 years ago at The New Cut Arts Centre.

Now a major force in the arts in North Suffolk, it attracts capacity crowds every October, who come for the chance to see top quality artists in small, intimate surroundings.

The HAF is a registered charity, relying on the generosity of many local businesses for the sponsorship essential to an event of this nature. Unlike many other Festivals, it receives no Arts Council, Lottery or other central Government help.

It works closely with local schools, promoting live music and staging an annual themed art exhibition at the Halesworth Gallery, featuring the best work our local educational establishments can offer.

The Festival is proud to have as Patrons: Bernard Hill, Maggi Hambling, Diana Quick, Kenneth Sillitoe and Julia Blackburn

The HAF is run by entirely voluntary people, both on the organising committee and at the venues.

Matthew Wetmore
Festival Director.
Originally worked in the music industry and subsequently devised and produced business presentations. Moved to Suffolk over 20 years ago, where he runs the local delicatessen. Has been HAF director for the last 8 years.

Hazel Allchin JP
Contracts Manager.
Local business owner, Membership Secretary Halesworth Community Choir. Retired Physiotherapist; Patient Facilitator for International Charity, Company Secretary for Oil and Gas Consultancy and Civil Servant.

John Bainer JP
HAF Schools Co-ordinator.
Educational Psychologist; retired teacher; regional representative for national children's charity; treasurer, Millennium Green Trust.

Sue Bainer
HAF secretary.
Business Law degree; trustee, Millennium Green Trust; retired national charity director, fundraiser, corporate human resources manager, schools development director.

Janet Hyde-Smith
Organiser for Stewards & Ushers.
With a theatrical background, Janet was an original Bluebell Girl. but these days is an antique dealer.

Jo Leverett
HAF Press Officer.
Jo has a background in Sales and Marketing, print and publishing and is proud to be the youngest member on the committee!

Tony Parsons
HAF Artists & Repertoire.
Professional trombonist Halle & BBC Symphony Orchestras; in retirement plays classical concerts & jazz in E Anglia; Chairman Halesworth Festival Voices.

Jane Parsons
HAF sponsorship and box office.
Twenty-five years administrator at a music college; concert agent; manager of an introduction agency; enthusiastic belly-dancer.