Medieval street entertainers and brass band performances are planned for Centenary Square to mark St George’s Day.

The feast day of patron saint will be celebrated at the family-friendly event on Saturday, April 23, starting at 11am.

Jesters, jugglers and acrobats will get the event up and running by attempting an array of stunts to dazzle onlookers before the Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Peter Hill, raises the English flag in the square at noon.

International performance company Markmark is sending its lively Medieval Maniax act to raise a few laughs when they unveil chains and padlocks and perform mesmerising stunts during two 45-minute performances at 11am and 3pm.

There will be more tricks and tomfoolery from Albert Alchemy, a medieval fool wearing traditional peasant clothing who juggles baskets with bells, eggs and five balls backwards. His 30-minute shows are scheduled for 11am, 12.45pm and 2pm.

Children are also promised an appearance by St George, dressed in full armour and accompanied by Princess Zeta and her faithful dragon.

Queensbury-based Revolution Show Corps, the Bradford Metropolitan Concert Band and the Hammonds Saltaire Band will provide a musical backdrop to the event.

The Revolution Show Corps’ performance comprises brass, percussion and dance sections to create a high-energy sound with movement.

The Bradford Metropolitan Concert Band was formed in 1975 and plays formal overtures, light classics and hits from musicals.

The Hammonds Saltaire Band is known as one of the finest non-sponsored bands in the world.

The Lord Mayor of Bradford, Coun Hill, hopes to see hundreds of families in Centenary Square for the celebrations.

“We are looking forward to a thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining day to celebrate our patron saint,” he said.

“We decided to have more of a family event in the square this year rather than a parade and hope shoppers and visitors will come down and participate in the fun.”

  • Read the full story in Saturday's T&A