Entries are up for the Manx Music, Speech and Dance Festival, sponsored by the Dandara Group, as it prepares to celebrate its 125th anniversary.

Numbers have been boosted by interest in newer classes including the Battle of the Bands, first introduced last year, which will see 18 local rock bands compete for glory.

The Festival Executive Committee confirmed 1,470 entries were received by the 4th February deadline, setting the scene for another fabulous event during Guild week from 21st to 29th April at the Villa Marina in Douglas.

Chairman of the Guild Sarah Kelly said: ‘We are thrilled that we have more entries this year, showing the enduring popularity of the Guild in the Manx music and drama calendar.

‘We are especially delighted that our newer classes have proved successful. Last year we introduced the Battle of the Bands evening and we are over the moon that this year we have 18 local rock bands taking part, seven of which are aged under 18 – it will be a fabulous night!

‘It is hugely encouraging to see such large numbers of competitors in our group classes. One group in the junior music making classes will see 45 children on stage playing a variety of instruments, including ukuleles. Tin whistles will also feature, as they have been welcomed this year for the first time, and our choir classes are as popular and busy as ever.

‘Entries are also higher in the special vocal classes, with 40 of the Island’s finest singers competing for a place in the coveted Cleveland Medal final for the Festival’s highest honour.  This year we are introducing an American Art Song class which obviously appeals as we have had an excellent entry to that class too.

‘Drama and dance are also well subscribed and we are also pleased to report a rise in entries for the woodwind classes this year, which we targeted during our week in Island schools with international flautist Simeon Wood last November.’

Sarah added: ‘We are celebrating a very special anniversary this year and, with continued support from our sponsor Dandara, it is wonderful to see the Festival still growing with such a bright future ahead. There will certainly be something for everyone to enjoy at the Villa during Guild week!’

Dandara Marketing Director Joanna Orton said: ‘We are delighted to see the Guild has once again attracted an increased number of entries, and especially pleased to see that the innovative new classes have proved so popular. The introduction of even greater diversity into the programme allows more people to get involved, and will also help grow the Festival’s audience.

‘The Manx Music, Speech and Dance Festival is a highlight of the year and Dandara is proud to be a partner as the Guild celebrates its 125th year and looks forward to an even brighter future.’

The Guild will once again culminate in the Festival’s Finest concert on the final evening, Saturday 29th April, showcasing some of the highlights of the week. It will include the first performance by the 2017 Cleveland Medal winner, with Finals evening being held the previous night.

A season ticket for the Manx Music Festival will be available from the end of March at a cost of ?30 for all sessions during the week with the exception of the Festival’s Finest concert, admission for which will be ?8. General admission for sessions will be ?4 and free for under-18s.