Under the Stars

By Newham.gov.uk / 6 July 2011

Thousands enjoyed the free musical entertainment at Under the Stars 2011.

Under the Stars

Around 30,000 people turned out for Newham's free music festival Under the Stars over the bank holiday weekend despite the pouring rain.

See our gallery of photos from Under the Stars 2011 and watch video highlights above.

 


 

Crowds braved downpours for a four-night musical feast from Thursday to Sunday in East Ham's Central Park with each night showcasing a different type of music.

Mayor of Newham Sir Robin Wales said: "The rain did little to dampen our spirits - though it did manage to dampen everything else. However our ever-resilient community turned out in force to see top acts play on their doorstep.

"If you put on a great show then people will come. We put on four free nights of great music and even though the rain was against us, thousands enjoyed the fun. It's what Newham is all about - people doing things together and without a hint of trouble. It's a taster of what we can expect next year. When the Olympic and Paralympic Games come we'll be putting on a great party."

It was a fabulous finale to Newham Council's summer's programme of free events. Thursday heard the melodic music of jazz superstar Courtney Pine, Ronnie Scott's Jazz Orchestra and diva and radio regular Claire Martin.

Friday's spicy sounds were of a more Eastern flavour, with BBC Radio One's Nihal presiding over bhangra legends H-Dhami, Heera, Juggy D and rising star Foji as well as the fleet-footed Britain's Got Talent contestants Threebee Bollywood Dancers.

Saturday lit the touch paper and had the park rocking with Queen tribute act Queen on Fire, supported by 12-piece party band MIB who found fame earlier in the year performing for crowds in Hyde Park at the Royal Wedding.

Sunday was an explosive rousing finale with people queuing for more than an hour before the gates opened. It was a spectacular offering of fireworks and flag-waving alongside the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra who played extracts from film scores from family blockbusters such as Harry Potter and Pirates of the Caribbean, ending with a spectacular firework display.

Collections and sales from ponchos over the four nights also raised more than £750 for the Help for Heroes charity.

  

Were you snapped at Under the Stars?

If our official photographer took a photograph of you or a family member at Under the Stars, you've come to the right place to retrieve it.

Simply visit our photo download website, enter the unique reference number you were given and download your image to keep as a souvenir of the music festival.

 

Under the Stars 2012 - save the dates in your diary!

This year's Under the Stars will take place between 23-26 August. Look out for more details about the line up nearer the time.