International folklore exhibition celebrates 60 years of cultural exchange
An exhibition celebrating six decades of global culture, dance and tradition will be open at Preston Park Museum and Grounds in Stockton until the end of August.
World Cultures, Traditions and Friendships brings together a fascinating collection of international folklore artefacts assembled by the team behind the Billingham International Folklore Festival of World Dance (BIFF).
The exhibition features a wide range of objects from around the world, including masks, dolls, carriages, a Samurai helmet, a Mexican drum, and other unique memorabilia.
Visitors can explore paintings, drawings, scrapbooks, slideshows, and a special archive documentary tracing the 60-year history of the festival. The exhibition is supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Olga Maloney, artistic director of BIFF 2025, said: “The merger of local and international heritage is the combination that has captivated so many people over the past six decades as they took part in the Billingham International Folklore Festival of World Dance.”
In addition to the display, museum volunteers will be on hand to record personal memories from visitors. These stories will become part of a digital archive celebrating the community impact of the festival.
“The life force of the festival has been the memories and stories that have been enjoyed and shared down the generations by individuals, families, audiences, performers and visitors to the region,” added Olga.
“Billingham has become a sought-after destination for international dancers... their continued presence in the town and later across Tees Valley has ensured people of all ages have gained an enriched experience of culture, customs and heritage from all over the world.”
Councillor Nigel Cooke said: “We’re proud to host this unique exhibition... The Folklore Festival has brought the world to our doorstep.”
BIFF 2025 will run from August 9-17. Full details at billinghamfestival.com.