By Lucy Waldron
Warwick recently hosted the inaugural Romancing the Stones Classical Music Festival, an event that left an indelible mark on the community and celebrated the richness of classical music.
Held across three venues—The Uniting Church, St Mark’s Church, and St Mary’s Church—the festival attracted over 700 attendees throughout the weekend, with standing ovations during the grand finale performance by the East Street Singers and the Southern Downs Orchestra.
Festival organiser Bronwyn Clark expressed her delight at the event’s success.
“The festival has rekindled appreciation for the timeless charm of classical music and the joy of live performances,” she said.
“It’s been a testament to Warwick’s ability to come together and create something truly exceptional.”
The event earned rave reviews from attendees, with many praising the high calibre of performances and the festival’s overall impact.
Local resident Jan Thompson called it “brilliant, brilliant, brilliant,” adding, “If it’s done as much for others as it has for me, it’s a powerful thing. Unbelievably wonderful. A cure for everything. Amazing. Glorious.”
Clare Cotton, another attendee, shared how the festival offered her a deeply personal experience.
“For an hour, the world outside the walls of the church, with all its problems, did not exist. I was wrapped in a cocoon of love, beautiful words, and music,” she said.
Jenny Eldridge echoed these sentiments, describing the festival as “not just successful, but brilliant.”
The success of Romancing the Stones has sparked enthusiasm for the future, with ideas for next year’s festival already being discussed.
Organiser Bronwyn Clark highlighted the community’s integral role, noting the event’s ability to bring people together in the spirit of creativity and cultural enrichment.
“The legacy of this festival will undoubtedly inspire many to pursue their artistic dreams and contribute to Warwick’s growing cultural scene,” Ms Clark said.
A special acknowledgment was given to the Vibrant Arts team, including Bronwyn Clark, Jillian Hulme, Michael Funder, Geoffrey Sexton, Gabi Laws, and Southern Downs Orchestra concertmaster Michael Spiller, for their dedication and passion.
Their combined efforts helped make the festival an unforgettable experience for all who attended.
The festival’s overwhelming success has set a new standard for cultural events in the region, showcasing Warwick’s ability to produce world-class artistic experiences.
As plans for the next edition of Romancing the Stones take shape, the community eagerly anticipates what the future holds.
