Let’s sum up summer in Birmingham

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From music and comedy to theatre and sports, there was much to get up to in Birmingham this summer. No matter if you were after plays, gig, music festivals, or just something to keep the children entertained during the summer holidays, this city had more than a generous helping of summer activities on offer. Something to suit every age and taste. Here is a small slice of a big pie called “Birmingham: 2015 events”, for your eyes only!

1. Best for Music

Glasgow’s Fratellis showcased their 3rd album on August 20, making rock and Indie fans feeling so in luck.  Reggae fans went ecstatic by seeing the “Empress” herself from up close (Marcia Griffiths) sending chills up and down the spine by singing as one of Bob Marley’s singing trio at the O2 Academy. Finally, those curious to check out some Brummie talents, Cannon Hill Park hosted the Summer Sessions on Thursdays, featuring a broad range of artists on August 27.

Other music festivals included:

Steel City Jazz Festival (June 5-6)

Magic City Brewfest (June 5-6)

SliceFest (June 6)

Alabaster CityFest (June 6)

Rock the South (June 19-20)

Birmingham International Jazz and Blues Festival (July 3-12)

Best for Theatre & Films

If you love dance performances, then the Zulu Ballet (Inala) must have ticked all your boxes (music of Ladysmith Black Mambazo). Musical enthusiasts were spoilt for choice this summer with 42nd Street hitting New Alexandra Theatre on August 12-15, telling Peggy Sawyer’s inspirational story regarding her rise to Broadway stardom. That aside, the stage adaptation of The Body Guard, the famous film played in the 90s, as well as the absolutely hilarious Love Me Tender Elvis Presley show definitely brought something different on the table (August-5 Sep and August 24-29 respectively).

Finally, Sidewalk Film Festival (Aug 28-30) must have quenched your thirst for some good film-watching downtown.

Best for Sports

Birmingham was totally geared up for a summer full of sports events, some of which were:

UK Championships and Avita trials at the Alexander Stadium (June 22-24).

Cricket (England v W. Indies) (June 7-11).

AEGON Classic Tennis (June 11-17).

British National Trampolining Championships (July 7-8).

Skyride Birmingham (August 16).

Aviva Birmingham Grand Prix (August 26).

Capital One Cup – Birmingham City v Aston Villa  (22 Sep).

Best for Free

Besides the live performances of many different musical genres mentioned before, Birmingham kept everyone busy and happy with something! For example, the 20th-Century Portrait Prints exhibition pleased visual art buffs and allowed them to explore works of Richard Hamilton and Eric Grill, among others (it is still on right through until Sep. 28). Meanwhile. The EcoPark hosted various activities offering some family fun days all through the summer. Simmer Down provided attendees with crafts and arts, food stalls, fairground rides, and many more!