ONE of the North East’s most iconic landmarks is opening a new chapter in its 600 year history – by staging a two day music event for the first time.
Lumley Castle Hotel at Chester-le-Street, County Durham will be the backdrop for Opulence, running on 4-5 September.
And while the big name performers are not being unveiled until later this month, organisers have promised it will be an extravaganza, with headliners including 80s and 90s superstars on day one, followed by a full day of the best of House music on day two.
Opulence is the brainwave of experienced event organisers, ATA Events, which has been staging shows around the country for more than 20 years, featuring a diverse range of artistes covering everyone from R N Bone Man to Sister Sledge to Razorlight.
It was ATA Events operations manager, Daz Flatman – also a well-known DJ in his own right -who wanted to stage something really new for the region, after moving to the North East.
“We didn’t want to do something that was just another show in a field, we wanted a spectacular location where we could stage something unique,” he said.
He admits that convincing such an iconic landmark to allow the concerts to be staged in their grounds “took a lot of persuading.”
“The combination of our experience and the vision of what we wanted to do convinced them that would be really special,” he said.
Jeff Hodgson, General Manager at Lumley Castle said the team were already getting excited about the event.
“My team and I are looking forward to seeing everyone come together to enjoy this amazing festival at Lumley Castle,” he said.
“The preparations are underway and we can’t wait to welcome the local community, and visitors from further afield too. It’s going to be something truly special, in such an iconic setting.”
Lindsey Clarke, Event Manager at the hotel added:, “I’m delighted to be working alongside ATA Events to help organise a music festival this autumn and to be involved in something entirely new for Lumley Castle, it’s great to create an event that will bring the local community together.”
Two large stages will be erected in the castle grounds, with the Helipad stage hosting the Saturday line-up and then used again on day two, along with the Monument stage.
A whole host of North East talent will also feature on both days, showcasing the region’s vibrant music scene.
Along with general tickets, there will be a small amount of VIP and VVIP packages available – which includes the option to stay at the castle – and which will allow attendees to enjoy a premium position to watch the acts.
Because of the limited number of tickets available, anyone interested is advised to sign up in advance which will mean they will be among the first to hear the line-up and will also get access to early bird tickets and the exclusive VIP and VVIP packages.
