Dozens of Warwickshire youngsters will take to the professional stage for the first time at Warwick Folk Festival, in a jaw-dropping, floor-shaking performance where traditional folk music and dance meets hip hop and breakdance.

It’s the culmination of a three month creative dance and music project involving young people from the Sydni Youth Centre and Westbury Youth Centre, both in Leamington, the Mancetter Youth Centre in Mancetter, along with students from the County Music Service, three dancers and four musicians.

The inspiration comes from Damien Barber, front man of the award-winning folk band The Demon Barbers, and his innovative show “The Lock Inn” where traditional folk dancers duel with their 20th century modern dance counterparts.

Project Manager Helen Meeke says: “County Music is hoping to attract musicians to for a Youth Folk Band which will appear at future festivals. It’s a great opportunity for the young people involved to work with professional artists and to be part of the one of the country’s leading folk festivals.

”The project began in May and culminates in a one hour high energy show “Journey” at the Festival on Thursday 25th July in the Bridge House Theatre at Warwick School. “The Lock Inn” follows later that evening on the Main Stage.

Tickets for all the main concerts and ceilidhs can be purchased separately here.