Hat Fair Festival in Winchester, led by Play to the Crowd, is working with Crying Out Loud, Hampshire Cultural Trust, supported by Without Walls to develop intergenerational audiences and increase artist engagement in outdoor arts across areas of low engagement, including Gosport, the New Forest and Portsmouth. Through this partnership, Crying Out Loud connects Solent artists with national and international opportunities and supports sector development in the region.

2024

Supported two early-career breakdancers from the Solent to train and perform alongside Irish aerial dance company Fidget Feet in a special adaptation of House at Hat Fair.

Connected Gosport creatives with an inspiration trip to Hat Fair.

2025 highlights

Open rehearsal and skill-sharing workshop with Hong Kong company TS Crew, covering street dance, movement and circus techniques. TS Crew’s Prototyping presented at Hat Fair.

Community Associates Meet-Up with Hat Fair’s team to map local spaces and future opportunities.

Community Celebration attended by Community Associates at Theatre Royal Winchester, and featuring contributions from 432 Nomads (Portsmouth).

Crying Out Loud and partners were instrumental in bringing the Community Associates on board, enabling those from Gosport – including artists and creatives – to attend events and take part in a feedback session shaping future engagement. This group will act as a catalyst for change and deeper involvement in the festival.

This project forms part of Crying Out Loud’s Solent Cultural Collaborations and Creative Development programmes.