MUSIC and drama came to life when people of all ages came to perform for a Southampton festival gala variety concert.

Children as young as seven showed off their talents along with people as old as 70 when the Southampton Festival of Music and Drama held their premier night at Thornden Hall.

Hundreds of people came to see 25 acts take to the stage at the Chandler’s Ford venue where acts included eight-year old Rose Gosney on the violin and publican Ashton Gray from Winchester on the piano.

Festival chairman Shelagh Lee said she was delighted with the turnout. She said: “It was a very eclectic night, it represented the festival in every way. Anybody is allowed to take part and they can come from anywhere in the country.

“We have already set out dates for 2016 and it looks like we have finally broken financially even after eight years of running.”

Daily Echo:

Ashton Gray

Next year’s festival will be held from March 4 to 6.

Daily Echo:

Rose Gosney