Grammy award winning jazz singer Jamie Cullum is confirmed as the special guest for the 20th anniversary Glastonbury Abbey Extravaganza, to be staged in Glastonbury’s historic abbey grounds on Saturday August 6. The event will be headlined by Van Morrison. Tickets are available now.
“I am delighted to be playing as part of Glastonbury’s Abbey Extravaganza and opening for the legendary Van Morrison,” says Cullum, who has racked up over 10 million album sales worldwide. “Glastonbury is a Festival close to my heart and to be a part of the support that is behind such a distinguished, world class event is as important as the Festival itself.”
“Music, community, love and consideration are the cornerstones of Glastonbury and it’s events such as the Glastonbury Abbey Extravaganza that go to prove this.”
Organiser Michael Eavis staged the very first Extravaganza in 1996, when Glastonbury Festival had a fallow year.
“This is such an atmospheric place, and a great location to promote some of our favourite performers,” says Eavis. “We’ve pulled together a fantastic bill so we can really celebrate in Extravaganza style this summer. And there will of course be fireworks!”
Headliner Van Morrison earlier highlighted the “spiritual resonance” he found at the Abbey, surrounded by three thousand years of Glastonbury history.
The Wells Cathedral School Big Band will open proceedings on August 6, when the gates open at 5pm.
Meanwhile, music fans heading for the Extravaganza will also have the chance to extend their stay beyond one night of spectacular music and fireworks. The very popular family camping facilities within easy distance of the Abbey (shuttle bus service provided) have been expanded for 2016, allowing visitors to make the most of their stay in the Vale of Avalon.
Says Abbey director Janet Bell: “We are grateful to Michael Eavis for all the support he gives the Abbey, and for staging the Extravaganza here. It is a spectacular backdrop for a traditional summer night out.”
Tickets are on sale now from the Abbey’s website or in person at the Abbey shop in Glastonbury town. Camping pitches and pre-erected tents are also available to book at that site.
