‘Social event of the season’ is set to draw in even more to stately home
A SELECTION of high-profile events at one of the country’s most famous stately homes is aiming to attract an army of new visitors and boost numbers which already stretch to more than 250,000 each year.
Castle Howard is gearing up for its 27th Summer Proms, which is considered “the social event of the season” and draws in crowds from across the country.
And following the appointment of a new producer, organisers say the classical performance is just one of a series of major events taking place this summer.
Marketing manager Rachel Underwood said: “Building on a successful 2016 which saw record visitor numbers of more than 270,000, Castle Howard continues to invest in its event programme offering new events and firm favourites.
“The Proms at Castle Howard is just one of a series of major events taking place at the stately home this summer, including an open-air live showing of La
traviata, live from the Royal Opera House earlier this week.
“Other forthcoming events include a visit by the BBC for
Antiques Roadshow on July 13, performances as part of the Ryedale Festival on July 19 and 26 and the Great British Food Festival on July 29 to 30.”
On Wednesday night, British soprano Joanna Forest gave a one-off preview performance in the Great Hall ahead of the proms.
She will be performing at the outdoor concert on Saturday, August 19, along with the renowned London Gala Orchestra and Classical Brit award winners Blake.
Ms Underwood said: “Castle Howard Proms is the social event of the season for North Yorkshire, drawing visitors from around the country to enjoy world-class music in this stunning setting.
“Joanna was brought on board by our new producer, Mark Harrison, who will be working on a series of major shows and events over the coming years to ensure that Castle Howard remains the most prestigious venue for alfresco entertainment in the region.”
The 18th century home is now run by Nicholas Howard after his brother Simon stepped down after three decades.
The Proms at Castle Howard is just one of a series of major events. Marketing manager Rachel Underwood.