Kirkby is set to host The BIG Sing & Dance, a one-day event featuring live music and performances from schools across Ashfield.

Around 250 pupils from seven primary and junior schools will be coming together to perform at the outdoor showcase. The event has been brought to life by Inspire Music and Captivate, Nottinghamshire’s Local Cultural Educational Partnership (LCEP), who have worked with the schools to provide pupils with tutoring in singing and dance.

Captivate is a programme funded by Arts Council England and offers partner-led activities that connect arts and creative opportunities with schools in Mansfield and Ashfield area, giving children and young people access to high-quality arts and cultural experiences. The BIG Sing & Dance has been organised in partnership with Ashfield District Council, Next Door Dance, and Inspire Music, who provide a wide range of music opportunities across the region.

Additionally, Inspire Music supports the delivery of the Local Plan for Music Education and provides progression routes and inclusive access for children into musical arts.

Families can go to Kirkby Plaza, from 12.30pm, on Monday, 15th July for a free afternoon, filled with rhythm, melody, and movement. The BIG Sing & Dance aims to be an inclusive celebration of the arts with community singing, choral pieces, energetic dance routines and more – for event goers that love music or simply want to support local talent.

Performing schools include: Hucknall National C of E Primary, Morven Park Primary School, Kingsway School, Greenwood Primary, Croft Primary School, Dalestorth Primary School and Broomhill Junior School.

Vanessa Oxspring, manager of Captivate, said: “The BIG Sing & Dance is a fantastic opportunity to bring dance and music together for the day. Our aim has been to showcase young people’s pride in their community through songs that celebrate their homes. This is going to be a true community event, families can come together to celebrate the fabulous artistic talent of local schools this summer right on their doorstep.”

Lu Blackband, projects administrator at Nottinghamshire Music Education Hub and Inspire Music, added: “This event is a real highlight of our year and will be a fantastic showcase of all the hard work and talents of our students. We’re excited to share their passion for music and dance with the community. Come along and join in the fun!”