Celia WiggThe vibrant culture of south Norfolk is being celebrated with a summer festival of the arts whose packed programme was unveiled this week.Celia Wigg

The vibrant culture of south Norfolk is being celebrated with a summer festival of the arts whose packed programme was unveiled this week.

Local and international performers will appear at venues across the district, from heritage sites to visitor attractions, stately homes and countryside locations.

The mix of entertainment will include live music, comedy, outdoor theatre, opera, dance, enactments and art exhibitions, staged from May to September. "This festival is not only fantastic for our residents and visitors to south Norfolk, but will also give local B&Bs, pubs, restaurants and shops a boost too," said Michelle Monck, cabinet member for tourism, heritage, enterprise, culture and customer focus. "It's a brilliant way to bring people and families together and with over 80 events, many of which are free, there's sure to be something for all ages and interests."

Working with local community groups and existing festivals, the council has organised events ranging from fire sculptures in Brockdish and a celebration of Abraham Lincoln's bicentenary in Hingham, to a 'Gum Boot Steam Up', with the Black Umfolosi 5.

The spectacular all-singing and dancing act from South Africa will perform to the backdrop of working steam engines in Forncett St Mary.

Also not to be missed is the 'Midsummer Chillax' on June 20 at Whitlingham Country Park, where people can enjoy live music, theatre, artistic installations, sand sculptures and a walk through a colour dome.

An orchestral performance from the City of London Sinfonia of The Lark Ascending, on May 22 at Dunston Hall, will officially launch the festival, closely followed by two fun-filled family-friendly events.

For more information and to download a brochure, visit www.south-norfolk.gov.uk/festival, or visit the council website and click on to forthcoming events.