Sabrina and the Engineer event attracts thousands

A magical spectacle of fire, water and steam lit up the historic town of Bridgnorth on Saturday 4 October, as Mr Ferrous the engineer was finally united with Sabrina, goddess of the River Severn.

Created by artists Avanti Display, pa BOOM Fireworks and Emergency Exit Arts, who were involved in the Liverpool City of Culture celebrations, and realised by both local artists and residents; it was a truly unique celebration of the history and culture of the area.

Delighted crowds of thousands were entertained by Highley Colliery Band and the Pelenna Valley Male Voice Choir as they paraded their lanterns and costumes in a stunning procession led by Mr Ferrous.

Councilor Barbara Craig, Cabinet member for community services at Shropshire County Council, said:

“We are delighted that over 3000 people attended the event and that participants and audience members were able to enjoy this wonderful performance which had been created especially for Bridgnorth. We can’t wait to return with our new programme in 2009.”

Snaking down the ancient Cartway and across the bridge into Severn Park the River’s tow-path was illuminated by a Fire Garden and local percussionists lent the procession the air of a pagan rite. In the park young people from Bridgnorth Endowed School and Bridgnorth Youth Group gave inspiring performances of music and dance, before the arrival of a Traction Engine which whisked away Mr Ferrous and the audience into Sabrina’s World for a spectacular finale.

Sabrina and Mr. Ferrous sang the story of the Industrial Revolution from a lake, against the backdrop of a water-screen onto which images of the Rivers dynamic heritage were projected. Sabrina’s nymphs sprang to life, spraying jets of water high into the night sky; and the union of Sabrina and Mr. Ferrous was marked in spectacular fashion by a stunning fire work display, enchanting old and young alike.

The Severn Project provides and creates annual outdoor performances and events for the communities living alongside the River Severn. In 2009, we will be returning with Revolution a series of performances celebrating Darwin’s work, and marking the 150th anniversary of the publication of the “Origin of Species”.

13 October 2008