Events in Newport City Centre really took off with a “Big Splash” on Friday evening when 120 local schoolchildren lead a fabulous flag procession from the Riverfront Theatre to the footbridge, adding a stunning array of colour to the grey and chilly October Newport Skyline. The display was quickly followed by escapologist Chris Cross suspended from the heights of the footbridge escaping from a straightjacket as the gathering crowds looked on in awe.

The evening continued as visitors to Newport Riverfront took in a cornucopia of arts and craft events while Welsh big band Wonderbrass and Samba drummers Batatân brought a true carnival soundtrack to the Riverfront café Terrace.

By 8pm, musical events were firmly underway including amongst others, Singer/Songwriter Ralph McTell in the Riverfront theatre and Newport’s own Cherrybeats and the jazz/reggae fused Zen Hussies performing free gigs on the Riverfront’s Café terrace.

Saturday brought a tidal wave of carnival atmosphere across Newport City Centre with a variety of street performers and arts on display. Children participated in several activities from badge making to designing their own flags and masks. Many of the intricately designed dragons that graced the city during last years Ryder Cup event made a welcome return to Newport Shopping Centre, while passers-by were entertained by events such as Magick the Last Royal Wizard which featured a 50 strong cast of carnival circus and street performers. Young people were equally enthralled by outstanding stunts and tricks at the BMX Free styling event outside Newport Centre.

However the highlight of Saturday’s events was undoubtedly The Small World Theatre’s epic puppet performance of The Healing of Bran the Blessed which took place at the Red Wave. Featuring Bilingual words and stirring live music from a talented collection of actors and singers. The star of the show was undoubtedly the 30ft puppet which drew many visitors to the Riverfront area.

The Big Splash brought a much needed ingredient of fun and vibrancy to Newport over the weekend and with so many smiling faces enjoying all the festivities it was wonderful to have such an inspiring series of events on our doorstep!