The voices, the laughter and the people bringing Foster Fest to life Ask anyone what makes a festival feel like a festival and they'll probably give you the same answer. The music.
That's exactly what our entertainers will be creating for our fostering families.
Every single performer, singer, compère and entertainer joining Foster Fest is giving something incredibly precious, their time, their talent and their energy. All are doing so completely free of charge because they believe our children deserve an unforgettable day.
That kindness deserves celebrating.
So this final article in our "People Behind Foster Fest" series is dedicated to every single person stepping onto our stage.
The soundtrack to Foster Fest
This year's Foster Fest line up is something we're incredibly proud of. From experienced musicians who have performed across Yorkshire to talented young performers stepping onto a stage for one of their biggest audiences yet, every act has generously given their time to help make this a day our children and families will never forget.
Every singer, musician, dancer, comedian and compère has chosen to be part of Foster Fest because they believe children with care experience deserve something truly special.
We couldn't be more grateful.
We're delighted that local actor Jordan Lill will be opening Foster Fest as our first compère.
Jordan will be welcoming families, introducing our performers and helping create that exciting festival atmosphere from the very beginning. His warmth, enthusiasm and ability to connect with an audience make him the perfect person to start the celebrations.
Later in the day, the microphone will be handed over to someone many of our families already know and love.
Award winning comedian Gary Jennison will not only be performing his own comedy set, he'll also take over as our second compère, keeping the laughter going, introducing performers and making sure the energy stays high right through to the end of the festival.
Jordan and Gary, thank you both for giving your time so generously. We hope you're welcomed by an audience full of smiles, applause and plenty of laughter.
TanGentle ViBes
Opening our live music programme are TanGentle ViBes, a talented electro acoustic duo well known across the Yorkshire music scene.
Blending effortless vocals with outstanding guitar work, they create their own unique take on everything from timeless classics to modern festival favourites. Whether performing on large stages or intimate venues, their relaxed style and infectious energy make them the perfect act to set the tone for an unforgettable afternoon.
Elisha and Millie
Perhaps one of the most special moments of Foster Fest will belong to Elisha and Millie.
Until now, they've only ever sung around family and friends.
At Foster Fest they'll be stepping onto a public stage for the very first time.
That takes courage.
It takes confidence.
Most of all, it deserves the biggest cheer of the day.
Their love of music shines through, and we know our fostering community will give them the warmest welcome imaginable as they take this exciting next step in their musical journey.
Good luck, Elisha and Millie. We're all rooting for you.
JHS Dance
Get ready for plenty of energy when JHS Dance takes to the stage.
Known for confident performances, exciting choreography and infectious enthusiasm, their talented dancers always bring a fantastic atmosphere wherever they perform.
With routines packed full of creativity and fun, they're guaranteed to have the audience clapping along and enjoying every minute.
Sophie Louise
With a beautiful voice and a genuine passion for performing, Sophie Louise brings warmth, confidence and personality to every song she sings.
Whether performing upbeat favourites or emotional ballads, Sophie has a wonderful ability to connect with her audience, creating performances that are both powerful and heartfelt.
We're delighted she'll be joining this year's line up.
Steve Hunter
We're incredibly pleased to welcome Steve Hunter back to the Foster Fest stage.
Steve was one of the very first performers to commit to returning this year, something that meant a great deal to us.
A familiar face on the local music circuit, Steve's brilliant mix of 50s, 60s and 70s classics, together with well loved party favourites, always gets audiences singing and dancing along.
Steve, thank you for continuing to support Hull's fostering community.
Gary Jennison
When Gary takes to the stage, one thing is guaranteed.
There'll be laughter.
With his quick wit, relatable stories and brilliant audience interaction, Gary has built an outstanding reputation as one of the region's favourite family entertainers.
His comedy appeals to children and adults alike, making him the perfect addition to Foster Fest.
We're incredibly lucky not only to have Gary performing, but also helping guide the festival through the second half of the day.
Izzy
Young solo singer Izzy has already built an impressive following through her live performances and social media.
Known for her confident stage presence, powerful vocals and uplifting performances, Izzy brings a fresh energy that's impossible not to enjoy.
Her passion for music shines through every song, and we can't wait to see her entertaining our families.
Isla
Music has been part of Isla's life for many years, from performing in local musical theatre productions to developing into the confident young performer she is today.
Her powerful voice, natural stage presence and genuine love of singing have made her a fantastic addition to this year's programme.
We're delighted she'll be sharing her talent with our Foster Fest families.
Thrive
Returning after becoming one of last year's biggest hits, Thrive are back by popular demand.
This talented four piece band knows exactly how to get a crowd going.
With electric guitars, driving drums and a fantastic mix of indie favourites and rock anthems, they bring incredible live energy wherever they perform.
We're absolutely thrilled to welcome them back for another unforgettable performance.
DJ Joe Elliott
No festival is complete without an incredible DJ, and we're incredibly proud that DJ Joe Elliott is once again our resident DJ.
Known across Hull as one half of Abandoned Frequencies, Joe brings huge energy, crowd favourites and festival anthems that keep the atmosphere alive from start to finish.
Joe's support has gone far beyond performing. He has generously donated equipment, shared playlists, offered technical advice and continually supported Foster Fest behind the scenes.
His passion, kindness and commitment have helped shape the festival into what it has become.
Thank you, Joe.
While our performers provide the soundtrack, there is another team working behind the scenes to make sure every microphone, every backing track and every performance sounds exactly as it should.
A huge thank you goes to Yorkshire Sound Service for providing the professional audio and technical expertise that allows every act to shine.
We'd also like to thank Harry, whose interactive DJ experiences throughout the day will give children the opportunity to create music, explore new technology and perhaps even discover a new passion.
A standing ovation from Hull Fostering.
To every singer, musician, dancer, DJ, comedian, compère and technician who has given up their time to support Foster Fest, thank you.
Your generosity is creating memories that will last a lifetime.
We hope you enjoy every second on stage, hear the loudest applause, feel the incredible energy from our fostering families and leave knowing you've made a genuine difference.
From all of us at Hull Fostering, thank you for being the voices behind Foster Fest.