Arts Council England supports a new Festival for Dartford launching this September. Where the Light Begins will be a Vibrant Celebration of Poetry, Music, and Stories for All Ages — Featuring World-Renowned Poet Lemn Sissay.
Dartford is set to come alive this September with this lively, inclusive celebration of community resilience, creativity, and joy produced by Hope on Prescription CIC. This extraordinary event promises a day full of dynamic performances, storytelling, music, and interactive fun — all harnessing the power of poetry and arts to inspire hope in everyone. Admission to the festival is free!
Headlined by the legendary Lemn Sissay, a poet whose words have touched millions worldwide, the festival will showcase his heartfelt performances alongside local poets, musicians, and community storytellers. Lemn’s presence underscores the festival’s status as a landmark event not just in Dartford but nationally, spotlighting the profound impact that words and community spirit can have on social wellbeing.
This year, Hope On Prescription is excited to engage with local schools and members of the surrounding community, through a series of Writing for Wellbeing Workshops. Participants will share their work in various ways during the festival, whether through performing on stage or having their poetry included within installations. This collaborative effort aims to amplify voices from different backgrounds and experiences, enriching the festival’s collective narrative.
But this isn’t just a poetry event — it’s a festival for everyone. Whether you’re a poetry aficionado or completely new to the art form, you’ll find something to inspire and entertain. Expect lively performances from Emoto-Matic, a hilarious and heartwarming show blending music, clowning, and audience participation. Imagine scientists trying to bottle up unruly emotions in a madcap demonstration, with themes of feelings, self-expression, and emotional honesty that will have the whole family laughing, dancing, and sharing their own stories.
Throughout the day, visitors will enjoy storytelling, live music, spoken word performances, and a playful, uplifting atmosphere at Dartford’s new beautiful outdoor theatre in Stone Recreational Ground.
“Lemn Sissay has championed hope and storytelling across the world — and now he’s coming to Dartford to help us celebrate our community’s resilience,” said Jemma Burgess, project lead. “This festival is about creating a space where everyone can express themselves, connect, and discover the joy of poetry and art — no matter their background or experience.”
Thanks to the Arts Council England’s support, Where the Light Begins will be a bold, joyous event with a lasting community impact — and an unforgettable day of celebration and shared stories. It’s a call to all to come together, laugh, and find hope through the arts.
Join us on Saturday 27th September 2025 to experience Dartford’s most exciting festival yet — where words, music,and the arts unite to spark hope and happiness in our community!
Festival Supported by: Arts Council England, Kent County Council, Kent & Medway Suicide Prevention Programme, Stone Pharmacy, CO – OP Greenhithe and MM Property Renovations.
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Website: www.hopeonprescription.co.uk