World-famous names are heading to west Norfolk this summer to take part in the 66th King's Lynn Festival.

Eastern Daily Press: Launch of the 2016 King's Lynn Festival. Pictured are (from left) organiser Alison Croose, marketing officer Kate Francis and administrator Ema Holman. Picture: Ian BurtLaunch of the 2016 King's Lynn Festival. Pictured are (from left) organiser Alison Croose, marketing officer Kate Francis and administrator Ema Holman. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant)

After last year's record-breaking box office sales organisers have lined up another wide-ranging programme featuring top names from classical music, jazz and folk plus exhibitions, films, talks and walks.

The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra will launch the festival with a programme featuring music from the movies plus classical favourites by Tchaikovsky, Mozart and Dvorak.

The Czech National Symphony Orchestra, with conductor Libor Pesek and violinist Alexander Sitkovetsky, will present the final concert.

The packed programme of 30 events will take audiences to Lynn's beautiful historic buildings including the newly-restored St Nicholas' Chapel, where the music of Ralph Vaughan Williams will be celebrated.

Eight events will be staged in St George's Guildhall where the festival has its roots, and four concerts in the Minster.

Festival favourite Lesley Garrett returns while the world-class Ronnie Scott's All Stars will celebrate the world-famous jazz venue.

Popular art historian Andrew Graham-Dixon also returns to give two talks on the art of Scandinavia and the secrets of the Mona Lisa. And historian Suzannah Lipscomb will speak on Henry VIII's wives.

Festival organiser Alison Croose said: 'We've got an even busier two weeks with 30 events this year, from July 17-30.

'Our aim is not only to enrich the lives of people in Norfolk, but to attract people from farther afield, and boost tourism.

'Classical music continues to provide the cornerstone of the programme. We are delighted to return to St Nicholas' Chapel after all the work done there.'

Priority booking for patrons starts on April 4 and for Friends on April 11, General booking is from April 25. Tickets will be available from the box office at King's Lynn Corn Exchange on 01553 764864 or online at www.kingslynnfestival.org.uk

Are you bringing a special festival to Norfolk? Email david.bale2@archant.co.uk