For anyone who’s been living in a cave, or simply unfamiliar with the funky format of Groove, the festival resides at the heart of Greve de Lecq. Held within the unique setting of the Moulin de Lecq; the infamous historical 16th century water mill and bar – and one of the only freehouses in Jersey. With its stunning surrounds featuring huge gardens, stepped banks, picnic tables, play park, BBQ Shack and large lush valley fields, the Moulin de Lecq provides the perfect canvas for the renowned family friendly festival. In the week approaching Groove de Lecq, the site is transformed into a festival playground, complete with professionally rigged main stage, an acoustic ‘saloon’ bar, sand filled Reggae Shack and this year, a new kid’s theatre and open mic stage. Stalls supporting local produce and some of Jersey’s innovative and creative entrepreneurs pop up alongside interactive art installations. Not forgetting the wacky and wonderful, famous fancy dress stall – designed to encourage Groovers to make an effort and indulge in some fun and funky role-play and dress up fun!
The sound that resonates throughout the festival is a celebration of Jersey talent – Groove loves local. This year Groovers will be entertained by over 100 local performers, including bands, acoustic duos, solo performers, DJs and a touch of theatre, spoken word and other amazing performers. Topping the bill this year will be UK based, Jersey born Frankie Davies & her Lovely Ladies whose folk and country sound will include a tribute to Fleetwood Mac (can’t wait for that!). Other acts include Sergeant Pipons, Alfresco Bandits, The Reasons, Badlebeques, Rosie Barrett, Howling Soul Brothers and Run for Cover and many more to be announced.
The formidable Groove Crew have been working on events, including the Tease Arena at Jersey Live since 2008. The local band stage, games and fancy dress themes bought something alternative, fun and frivolous to revellers time and time again as well as raising funds without profit. The team is made up of a group of friends, families, artists and musicians who take their inspiration from their own festival experiences. Volunteers dedicate their time and many businesses provide their services without charge to ensure that the ticket money can all go directly to Autism Jersey.
Champions of music and mobile, iQ Apple Store kindly sponsor the costs of staging and sound, alongside Stage 2 Productions who are renowned for their expertise in all events, from BLKOUT to Jersey Live. SGB (aka Harsco), 4Hire & scaffolders kindly provide equipment and infrastructure often without charge (we’d like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you!). The reward for those taking part and supporting including sponsors and musicians is not simply access to the event and publicity but willingness to create or perform at their own festival, entertaining a local crowd whilst supporting a very worthwhile cause.
Promising to capture your imagination and transform what is ordinarily an expanse of garden and greenery into a magical, family friendly festival, Groove is building on the popularity of the reggae shack and is set to create a fantasy island experience. Explorers will discover an Island adventure and melting pot of creative culture, which has grown organically, and each year the event that raises thousands for charity gets bigger and better. The focus is always a celebration of local talent and entertainment for every generation, creating the best possible experience for those who come along. Groove is an ethically produced festival that embraces the local community good will and provides a platform for locally grown talent – the result is rather spectacular and certainly something that Jersey can be proud of.
WWW.GROOVE.ORG.JE
