Festival Committee

Ely Arts Festival is managed by a voluntary committee with a wealth of experience in developing cultural events and activities in Ely and beyond. 

As a sponsor and partner, Babylon ARTS provide the secretariat function for the committee, as well as contributing its expertise and resources to the festival management.  

Chris Parsons
Chair & Artistic Director

Chris is a conductor, trumpeter and teacher. He is the director of Eboracum Baroque, a group of young professional singers and instrumentalists that specialise in the performance of Baroque music in a historically informed style and on period instruments. 

Martyn Newton
Treasurer

Martyn is a retired finance officer and businessman with a keen interest in all aspects of the arts.

Louise Beale
.

Louise is a community and socially engaged artist, ceramicists, freelance artist and Art/DT teacher.

Sallyann Ford
.

Sallyann is an experienced concerts and event manager and is the former Sub-Sacrist of Ely Cathedral. 

Raphaëlle Collou 

Raphaëlle is a French theatre maker, voice over actor, radio presenter and writer living in Ely with her young family.



Brian Watson

Brian is a writer, actor, director, singer and broadcaster whose career began as co-founder of Chelmsford Arts Laboratory and has encompassed many local roles in the Cambridgeshire art scene.

Gail Newton

Gail is a retired teacher who for many years organised the local School’s Music Festival. She has also been Musical Director of several local choirs and theatre groups. 

Laura Pearson-Clarke

Laura is a mixed media artist and art tutor, a Cambridge Open Studios member and exhibits her work in various local galleries and venues.