Richard Hawley, the new director of Lichfield Festival has had a baptism of fire since taking over the post. This year's Lichfield Festival from July 7 to 17 is a whirlwind ten days of entertainment from classical superstars, jazz legends, folk heroes and television celebrities to top performers from Europe, North America and Australasia, poets, dancers, painters and a tasty selection of Hollywood blockbusters. The first week of public booking broke all previous records and the 'sold out' signs are going up on a number of the 90-plus events. "The public response so far has been overwhelming but there are still some really hot tickets to be had," says Richard, 32, who took over from Meurig Bowen in January. "I inherited a programme that was about two thirds complete so I had to hit the ground running. I'm really pleased with the final programme and confident that it will appeal to the people of Lichfield, Staffordshire and the whole West Midlands. "I know there are a lot of people around who are really proud of what we manage to achieve in Lichfield each July, but one of my ambitions is to have everyone in the city really buzzing. There's such a tremendous variety on offer that there really is no excuse for not buying at least one ticket. "But I also want more people to realise - and celebrate - just what a huge impact this Festival has on our city and region, not only in terms of the arts and entertainment but also tourism and the local economy. We really put Lichfield on the map and there are year-round benefits." Artists appearing at this year's Festival include established classical superstars soprano Dame Felicity Lott, bass Sir Willard White, the Hall» Orchestra, Ex Cathedra, Hilliard Ensemble, organist Dame Gillian Weir and pianist Marc-Andr» Hamelin. The rising stars include Lichfield soprano Natalie Clifton-Griffith, jazz singer Clare Teal and Stafford-raised folk singer Jim Moray. SelectLiving asked Richard to choose who he would invite for dinner during the festival. Australian-born Richard, former orchestra manager at the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, says: "All three guests have made their careers through their ability to communicate and find the best in people or their surroundings." BRUCE CHATWIN (1940-1989) "I grew up reading Chatwin's fiction and travel writings, and had spent my teens planning on how to eventually meet him, only to be devastated to discover that he'd died in 1989. "I've always been fascinated by the lives of people who travel continuously, and have the ability to write so clearly about their experiences. Books like 'In Patagonia' and 'What am I Doing Here' have often transported me from where I am. "I also like Chatwin's hidden talents at being able to spot fine art forgeries. As the writer of 'The Songlines', he obviously understands my country at a deeper level than most. His book of travel photography is a wonderful part of my library." HUGH FEARNLEY-WHITTINGSTALL "Since coming to England, I've been avidly reading his books and watching the River Cottage series. His commitment to eating well and his respect of produce is inspiring, and his wonderful recipes have made memorable evenings at my dinner table. To be able to discuss fishing, baby broad beans and well hung game would be a pleasure." NADIA BOULANGER (1887-1979) "She was a notable French conductor and composer, but is remembered best for her commitment to teaching. As probably the most important composition teacher of the last century, Boulanger has profoundly influenced contemporary music, and the way we listen. Amongst uncountable others, her most notable students include Aaron Copland, Elliot Carter, Thea Musgrave, Daniel Barenboim, Peggy Glanville-Hicks, Quincy Jones, Astor Piazolla, and Igor Stravinsky. "Her influence is felt through the compositions and teachings of her students, and resounds even now. The opportunity to discuss all types and approaches to music with such an openminded person would be extraordinary." To find out more about Lichfield Festival, see our special web exclusive guide to the best of the festival.
Or go to the official website at www.lichfieldfestival.org | 
