wdnews@bepp.co.uk
His world-famous festival may be just weeks away but Michael Eavis is still finding time to book big acts for the Glastonbury Extravaganza, today announcing a performance by Bryan Ferry & The Bryan Ferry Orchestra.
The event on Sunday, August 11, will see the former Roxy Music frontman – who shot to fame with the band's self-titled first album in 1972 – perform in front of thousands in the grounds of the town's abbey, before the traditional closing fireworks display.
Following in the path to the abbey trodden by Status Quo, Madness, Van Morrison and Jools Holland, Ferry has been acclaimed as one of the most innovative musicians, songwriters and singers of his era, both for his work in bands or solo.
The 17-year-old extravaganza – which shared a fallow year with its older Pilton cousin last year – returns by way of a thank you to those who live in the area and also as part of Mr Eavis' role as an ambassador for the abbey. The historic site is running an appeal to preserve its ruins.
Mr Eavis said: "The concert is an opportunity for local people who can't always get to the festival in Pilton to enjoy something extra special in this lovely town. We were very fortunate to be able to get Bryan Ferry who will come up with the goods and deliver a spectacular show."
The show's return has come after many enquiries made locally, explained Janet Bell, the abbey's director.
"The people of Glastonbury have been asking if there would be another concert this year at the abbey and we're delighted that, thanks to Michael, there will be," she said.
"We are sure it will be well-supported and tickets will sell fast; we are all looking forward to it."
EXTRAVAGANZA TICKETS
Tickets are on sale from 9am today online and at the abbey shop.
Advance tickets cost £35 for adults, £20 for an accompanied child aged six to 16, £95 for a family of two adults and three children. Gate prices are £40 adult, £25 for a child aged six to 16, £120 for a family of two adults and three children. Accompanied children aged five and under do not require a ticket.
Bookings can be made:
Online at www.glastonburyabbey.com/Extravaganza There is a £3.50 delivery charge per order.
In person at the Abbey Shop where there is free collection or £1.50 delivery charge.
By posting a cheque/postal order made payable to Glastonbury Festivals Ltd, to Glastonbury Extravaganza, 28 Northload Street, Glastonbury, Somerset, BA6 9JJ indicating number of tickets required, postal details and delivery fee of £1.50 per order.
