LONDON, Ont. — The Forest City London Music Festival began its 23rd edition with an energetic launch this past weekend.
“Yeah, we started off with a bang,” said festival chairman Mario Circelli , who praised the turnout and opening performance.
London-based singer Saveria opened the festival. Circelli called her a standout talent from the region.
“She’s a real shining star for London and the region, for sure,” he said. “She’s got a five-octave range — just amazing pipes. And it doesn’t hurt when you’re backed by the band that she has.”
Saveria, who has been performing in London since she was nine, said she enjoys performing in her hometown.
“I’ve been here ever since I was nine years old, singing the national anthem at Knights games,” she said. “It’s special to play here because my close friends and family can support me.”
The downtown location comes with safety considerations, but Circelli said the team has taken precautions to ensure the event remains secure.
“Our licensed area is very small — it’s controlled,” he said. “We have professional security operating it. It’s a licensed area, so you have to be of age to enter. And we’ve got some police presence here because we’re right outside of the downtown command centre.”
While the event is free to attend, Circelli said it costs about $60,000 to run.
“All of the musicians and participants are paid,” he said. “We do fundraising, get corporate sponsorships, and receive a small amount of support from the city. But most of it is covered by companies and organizations that believe in what we’re doing.”
The festival runs until June 8 and features a variety of performances throughout the week.
“We’ve got a Latin street party happening on June 6, Battle of the Bands at the Marconi Club on the 5th, London Live on the 4th, and a hip-hop/R&B showcase at Palasad, also on the 4th,” Circelli said.
This year marks the 23rd edition of the Forest City London Music Festival.
