A former Walsall Poet Laureate, who worked with 3 Mayors of Walsall between 2011 - 2015 to raise money for charity, is to perform at Mile of Smiles on Sunday 25th July in Shrewsbury. The event is a free family event aimed at spreading some happiness for charity.
Ian Henery, who is also a playwright, broadcaster and solicitor in Walsall, has been invited to perform on the Main Stage in Quarry Park and St Aulkmunds Church. Organised by Shropshire Festivals and made possible as a free event with funding from the Government`s Culture Recovery Fund, it is the region`s first big event after the planned easing of lockdown on 19th July. The event is not only to raise money for charity but to support entertainers who have had a challenging time during the coronavirus pandemic.
"I am proud to be representing my home town of Walsall" said Ian "on the Main Stage and in St Aulkmunds Church. I have been very active on Zoom, Facebook and Webex during the coronavirus pandemic and I am excited that this is finally a real festival where we can all get out there and meet people.
The free event is aimed at raising money for the charity Climbing Out which helps people rebuild confidence and motivation following a life-changing trauma, injury or illness. "I felt that this was particularly relevant" explained Ian "as we are all trying to find a way forward after such a challenging time as COVID-19.
The event is all about celebrating culture and finally being able to bring the fun back. Theatre groups, poets and musicians are going to be scattered around the town - from the Castle to Quarry Park - with street food on offer.
There is going to be a real mix along the way with stilt walkers, acrobatics, dancers, bubble makers, live music and of course us poets. I am just proud to be representing Walsall".
