Jane Austen folk music festival to take place in Southampton

Tapestry, which is free to attend, will take place at Westquay Esplanade, Southampton, on July 19 and 20.

The festival will welcome world-class musicians to pay tribute to the author as part of the city’s year-long celebration of Austen’s 250th birthday.

The family-friendly festival will be one of many events to take place in Southampton in honour of the former resident of the city.

Family-friendly festival marks cultural tribute to Jane Austen’s legacy (Image: Becky Lewis) Sea City Museum’s A Very Respectable Company – Jane Austen and her Southampton Circle exhibition will also run until October 31.

The exhibition will take a look at some of the people who might have inspired characters in her famous novels.

The adaptation of Austen’s iconic love story comes to Southampton direct from its triumph in London’s West End.

Mayflower Studios is also set to feature The Last Rose of Summer on August 8 and August 9.

The new one-act musical about Jane Austen’s life in Southampton will be performed by a cast of 50 talented local young people.

For those looking for more Austen-inspired activities, the Visit Southampton website has detailed listings, including guided walks, street theatre, open-air theatre, and musical events.

One of the highlights will be the grand Jane Austen 250 Regency Ball in December.

The Tapestry Festival organisers said: "Celebrate Jane Austen’s 250th birthday your way – there’s so much to see and do.

"Tapestry assembles world-class musicians in a brand-new, two-day festival inspired by Jane Austen’s love of folk music.

"Free to attend and unticketed, this new, family-friendly festival includes something for everyone.

"The festival celebrates the city’s rich cultural life through exclusive sets, new collaborations and original music as part of Southampton’s year-long tribute to Jane Austen, a former resident of the city."