Audiences will once again be able to enjoy outdoor performances of Shakespeare in the cloister at Norwich Cathedral.

The historic venue's fourth Shakespeare Festival is to take place in July when two of the Bard's plays will be performed.

This year's programme includes the comedy The Taming of the Shrew and also The Tempest, a tale involving shipwreck and magic on a remote island.

The Shakespeare Festival 2012 is in association with the Eastern Daily Press.

Cecile Tuddenham, Norwich Cathedral marketing manager, said: 'This is the fourth year we have had the Shakespeare festival at Norwich Cathedral.

'It has definitely become a popular feature on the Norwich calendar.

'The cathedral is such an amazing setting for Shakespeare, especially on a fine summer evening when the cathedral spire is lit up with a lovely sunset.

'We are really pleased to welcome back GB Theatre Company.'

Barrie Palmer, one of the two company directors at GB Theatre Company, said casting for the shows was now under way and the company was delighted to be returning to Norwich.

'The atmosphere is terrific at Norwich Cathedral. It is just a magical experience, and Norwich is such a beautiful city,' he said.

The Tempest will be directed by Jack Shepherd who starred in the TV detective drama Wycliffe.

Jenny Stephens, who directed the Merry Wives of Windsor production which came to Norwich Cathedral in 2010, will be directing The Taming of the Shrew.

Mr Palmer said: 'They have both got some fantastic ideas and I am very excited about the shows.'

• The Taming of the Shrew will be performed on July 11 and 13, and The Tempest will be performed on July 12 and 14.

All shows start at 7pm at Norwich Cathedral. For details of ticket prices or to book visit www.cathedral.org.uk, call the Norwich Cathedral Shop on 01603 218450 or Norwich Theatre Royal box office on 01603 630000.

• Founded in 2010, the GB Theatre Company, which performs across the UK and mainland Europe, aims to combine the best of open air theatre and quality indoor productions. For more information visit www.gbtheatrecompany.com

• emma.knights@archant.co.uk