A dragon carving in the Great Hall in Dragon Hall, Norwich. © HEART
An exciting, all new celebration is on its way to Norwich, with work underway on the city’s first ever Dragon festival, scheduled for February 2009.
Norwich Heritage, Economic and Regeneration Trust (HEART), Norwich Education Network and Norwich 12 (the outstanding heritage building collection) are working together to provide locals and tourists alike with a fabulous array of entertainments.
“Today most people have heard of dragons in legends, but few know of the mythical creature’s deep roots in the history of Norwich,” said Michael Loveday, HEART’s Chief Executive. “The Dragon Festival is an innovative way of exploring this and promoting an understanding of Norwich’s rich cultural and civic heritage.”
Ethelbert Gate (Anglican Cathedral in Norwich's Tombland). © HEART
People can look forward to exhibitions, performances, story-telling, a trail, craft activities, films, competitions and more. Cross-cultural dragon traditions, such as Chinese and Polish will also be included.
HEART is calling for the help of the local people whose renowned heritage the organisation works to protect. Can you dig up old photos or paintings of Norwich’s dragons? Do you have memories of street processions featuring Snap the Dragon?
'Snap procession' - a painting on display at the Castle in Norwich. © Jarrolds Publishing
Could your knowledge about the locations of dragons across the city be useful? Or can you uncover an historical source featuring dragons?If you have any relevant information please contact Jo Archer on 01603 599 576, at joarcher@heritagecity.org or Norwich HEART, PO Box 3130, Norwich NR2 1XR.
For up to date information on festival dates and events visit: www.norwich12.co.uk/dragonfestival
Katie Brinkley is the 24 Hour Museum/Norwich HEART Student Writer in Norwich. Norwich Heritage Economic and Regeneration Trust (HEART) is the groundbreaking initiative to regenerate, manage and promote one of the most remarkable heritage resources in the UK and in Europe.
