Upload Festival forced back online after opening night

What started during Guernsey’s first lockdown came full circle after the second lockdown was announced at noon on Saturday.

After discussions with Mike Meinke and Paul Wallbridge, event organiser and musician Kiya Ashton launched the festival last year.

Jay Tayler and Nadine Edmundson lent a hand to secure Jersey acts for the first show in April.

‘Our festival weekend in April was a huge success, showcasing 40 solo artists and entertaining thousands of people, according to the view count,’ said Miss Ashton.

Last weekend should have been a restriction-free version, gathering an

audience and performers together.

‘We had our night on Friday, which was absolutely incredible, we nearly packed out the St James cafe with people all there to support local songwriters.’

Guernsey Gigs live-streamed Friday’s event featuring nine artists.

‘Every single one blew me away and I cannot be more thankful for the performers and the audience for wanting to try something a bit new, because a night of solo artists isn’t your typical line-up. I left at the end of the night buzzing, excited for Saturday.’

St James executive director Jon Bisson said that Saturday could only be better, with 25 acts due to play.

‘Then on Saturday morning I was sent the news from the States of Guernsey and at 8am my heart was broken. It took me a while to see the irony, and I do now think I tempted fate a little.’

Friends, performers and attendees sent messages of support and understanding, which was a truly

comforting Guernsey Together moment, Miss Ashton said.

‘I moped for a few hours, I guess in shock really, and I started to um and ah about doing something online again, but I really didn’t feel it would be worth it until one [Guernsey Press news editor] Nick Mann brought it up. Then, one briefing later and a quick crash course in the way of Facebook live, we had a gig.’

Four artists from the original line-up played, including Ramblin’ Nick Mann, with Let’s Get Quizzical and Stretchy’s Damaged Disco to finish.

‘It was thrown together in about six hours and totally mishmash, but it felt so good to be able to offer something to these committed performers and to the people who tuned in.’

Saturday will be rescheduled for an appropriate time to honour the work of all involved.

More live streams will follow during lockdown with improved streaming hardware and knowledge.

• For regular updates, shows and past events, to offer ideas or to perform, visit: facebook.com/uploadfestivalCI.