Following the cancellation of the Midsomer Norton Music and Arts Festival, the Midsomer Norton Community Trust has organised AmpFest, a volunteer-led event to be held at the Amphitheatre in the Town Park.

Set forJune 7, AmpFest is a wholly volunteer-led occasion showcasing performances by local bands, students, and professional musicians.

The event was developed after the Community Trust was unable to secure Town Council funding for the Music and Arts Festival. In response, the community has united to present a smaller-scale event intended to offer a comparable cultural experience.

Funding for AmpFest was secured through a WECA Cultural Event Grant, which facilitated the purchase of a public address system. Sound technicians from Midsomer Sounds and Wacky Shirts Sounds have volunteered to oversee the sound operations on the day. The grant also provided for lighting and gazebos, which will be utilised during the event.

Representatives from the Community Trust have noted an overwhelmingly positive community response, with numerous local residents offering support. They emphasised the value of the amphitheatre and town park as a venue well suited for such events.

Performers confirmed for AmpFest include Jon Parry, Cult of the Velvet Rattlesnake, Keith Horler, Eddie and Maddy, Paulton Ukulele Band, Pyromania, Audiophiles, Loophole, Phantom, Revenants, Leanne Bethell, Cerebellum, and the Pix.

Somer Valley Brewing will provide a beer truck featuring four varieties on tap, as well as chilled wine. Dan’s ice creams will also be available, with arrangements underway to include a hot food vendor.

Admission to the event is free, with attendees invited to make voluntary donations, particularly in support of the performers. Attendees are advised to bring picnic blankets and chairs. The amphitheatre will serve as the event’s backdrop, with the large stage used for performances.

Further information and updates are available at mnct.co.uk/ampfest