Hitchin’s main event is fast approaching. Rhythms of the World (ROTW) is all set to stage a cultural extravaganza on 12 and 13 July so we spoke to Matt Wyle, ROTW Chair, to find out more…

Q How did you get involved in organising the event?

A I went to Rhythms in 2003 and really enjoyed it; I thought it was a fantastic event, and an outstanding opportunity for people to engage in community activity. Shortly afterwards, I moved to Hitchin. I went along to a recruitment evening for the 2004 ROTW, decided to offer my services and got involved in organising the festival.

Q Why is it so popular?

A Rhythms has always set out to involve as much of the community as possible, which I think is the reason for its enduring appeal. The idea is for people to use the event as a blank canvas on which they are free to ‘paint’ whatever they want. So it provides a welcome stimulus to arts within our region, as well as an outlet for the energies of local
young people.

Q ROTW has grown phenomenally in recent years – does this present a new set of challenges?

A Definitely. ROTW is a registered charity that’s organised entirely by volunteers. We’re very lucky to have so many people willing to dedicate their free time to planning and organising the festival, but it has become an increasingly complex and costly affair. This year it will cost around £150,000, which we have to raise through grants and sponsorship – that’s a very tall order. And of course, health and safety considerations are vital for any event that’s on such a grand scale, so we’ve invested a lot of time and money to ensure the safety of visitors and performers alike.

Q What’s new for Rhythms 2008?

A ROTW was becoming more and more difficult to organise, with so many visitors and performers spread across so many venues in and around the centre of Hitchin. So for the first time ever, this year’s ROTW will be hosted by the Priory, which has provided a local focal point since the Middle Ages. It’s a great venue to celebrate the best of local and world culture. There will be performances of worldwide music and dance across six stages, a children’s area and art displays. Also, for the very first time, there’ll be a grass ‘Arena’, which local sporting and community groups can use for competitions and exhibitions.

Q As a lifelong Spurs fan, how did it feel to score twice against Tottenham in January?

A Yes. Buy your tickets early to be sure of a place at the event. Tickets cost just £5 and can be purchased from many outlets in Hitchin and the surrounding towns, as well as online – you can find full details on our website (www.rotw.org.uk). Then just sit back, relax and enjoy experiencing the huge variety of music and arts contributing to the adventure that is Rhythms!