Portsmouth Music Festival will not be held in the city

Portsmouth Music Festival is one of the largest competitive festivals in the UK, with more than 2,000 people demonstrating their musical, speaking and dancing talents to professional judges and the audience.

And for the first time in the festival’s 80-year history, none of the sections will be held in Portsmouth because the organisers could not find suitable venues.

Treasurer Ian Frogley explained the Guildhall was not available and that schools in the city are not suitable for the events.

There are 10 sections, from dance to rock and pop, taking place in February and March.

The festival begins with the speech and drama event at Park Community School, in Middle Park Way, Leigh Park, on February 6 and 7.

The final gala concert will be on Sunday, March 20 at the Kings Theatre, Southsea.

Mr Frogley said: ‘It will be an opportunity for some invited performers 
from each section to demonstrate their talents in the wonderful setting of the Kings Theatre.

‘During the concert, a few outstanding performers will have the opportunity to compete for the Portsmouth Festivities Recital Prize 2017 and The Solent Symphony Orchestra Concerto Award 2017.’

The events are open to all. Go to portsmouthmusicfestival.co.uk.