FANS of the unofficial England World Cup footie anthem Wonderwall will be partying to it at a fun-filled music festival in the centre of one of Erewash’s towns this weekend.
The annual Glow Music & Art fest, which draws huge crowds to Ilkeston Market Place, will see lovers of Oasis in for a supersonic treat as a main stage is again erected in front of the Town Hall.
The free event’s headline act – top copycat band Oasis2ribute – is billed as the next best thing to seeing the real Manchester rockers.
Unlike the famously feuding Gallagher brothers Noel and Liam, the lookalikes who front the group are happy to share the spotlight. They will be belting out all the hits . . . so residents are being urged not to look back in anger by missing out.
The council-backed music spectacular on Sunday 30 August is staged by volunteers with sponsorship from local businesses. It runs from 11.45am to 10pm and will be opened by Erewash’s Mayor Cllr Greg Maskalick – who will be taking to the stage to show off his keyboard skills.
Greg is a teacher who was born in the USA, where he used to be a professional musician. He worked with a host of top stars – including helping Hollywood legend Bruce Willis to make his album The Return of Bruno. These days Greg can often be seen performing with his combo The Roadkill Blues Band.
Town centre pubs including The Harrow, King’s Head, Sir John Warren and the Borough Arms will be hosting live music as part of the festival. Among acts at the Market Inn will be Louie Walsh – a Nottingham singer-songwriter who is NOT to be confused with the famous X Factor judge Louis Walsh.
On the main stage the line-up includes alternative rockers Shadows of a Silhouette, the award-winning Soulmates Family – who wowed crowds last year – and the celebrated Ilkeston guitarist Shay.
The summer music extravaganza, which has boomed in popularity since it began in 2023, has secured financial support from Erewash council so it can be staged this year and next. Deputy Leader Cllr Becca Everett, who is Lead Member for Community Engagement, said: “The Glow festival is always great fun for all the family. As well as fantastic music, there are food stalls, art and funfair rides – meaning there is something for everyone.”
