Jonathan Irving, promoter of the Manx Telecom Bay Festival (formerly dubbed 'the Isle of Man Bay Festival') says he has been 'overwhelmed by local support and enthusiasm' since announcing the line-up for the last day of the event (on Sunday 20th June 2010).
Mr Irving comments, "It is quite clear that ‘X Factor Meets Britain’s Got Talent’ has struck a chord with families on the Island for potential Christmas and Father’s Day presents!
"These shows attract weekly audiences in excess of 15 million so we are fortunate to have secured artists such as Signature, Leon Jackson (the winner of the X Factor) and Stavros Flatley!
"Diversity will perform the routine they had rehearsed for the Michael Jackson O2 show.
"They are presently making a 3-D film called ‘StreetDance’ with George Sampson, who is also appearing at the Manx Telecom Bay Festival, and the film is due to be released at the same time as the festival.
"Our 'Last Night in the Park - Stonking 80’s Party’ has also received a good reaction.
"With seven original 80s artists and bands, it’s going to be one huge party. People are recognising the gravitas of these artists: Rick Astley, for example, received the 'Best Act Ever' award at the MTV Europe Music Awards in 2008.
"Boy George has recently worked with Kylie Minogue and is about to release a new single and album. The show also includes Belinda Carlisle, Kim Wilde and others."
Although the acts confirmed so far have met with criticism from some quarters, Mr Irving insists that "we've had great feedback from different sections of the community. Young and old are excited at the prospect of the different gigs - and feel there will be something for everyone.
"I’ve also had lots of people asking about the rest of the line-up - but all will be revealed quite soon!"
"I would encourage people to buy early, as it is clear the seats won’t be around for long based on the interest so far.
"Over the next couple of weeks we will publicise the Friday ‘pop’ night and Saturday ‘indie/rock’ night line-ups so please watch this space.
"We always promised to deliver three different genres - and that’s what we will do."
