Bumper programme announced for 11th Arts by The Sea Festival

The event, which is free to attend, takes place in Bournemouth town centre and a number of seafront locations next month.

Artists attending include Cloudscapes by Gobbledegook Theatre from Dorset performer and co-founder Lorna Rees; singalong show The Lips by Puppets with Guts and illuminating dance piece Thrive by Grace Willows and Cirque Bijou.

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There is also a packed musical programme for the bandstand, from Afro-Latin to party-starting DJ sets, and much more besides.

A spokesperson from Arts by the Sea Festival said: “The artistic theme for Arts by the Sea 2021 is ‘Connect’, fittingly chosen now friends, families and loved ones can unite.

“As a strand running through the 2021 festival programme, the theme will explore the concept of the human being as a fundamentally social creature—a tribal animal—while highlighting the importance of celebration, festivity and connecting with others.

“There are many must-see attractions just announced for this year’s festival.”

Now in its 11th year, Arts by the Sea, which will run from Friday October 1 to Sunday October 3, is delivered by BCP Council in association with Arts Council England, and under the creative direction of From The Fields.

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The spokesperson added: “Intimate sound art experience Cloudscapes by Gobbledegook Theatre will welcome guests at Lower Gardens to lie back on giant beanbags, look up and contemplate the mutability of clouds, as well as the mutability of humanity.

“Another highlight in this second wave of announcements is Thrive by choreographer Grace Willow (Joy In Dance) and internationally renowned circus production company, Cirque Bijou.

“Presented by Pavilion Dance South West at Lower Gardens, visitors can witness a dance performance with mesmerising LED light-up umbrellas as it celebrates light in the darkness, both physically and metaphorically.”

Arts by the Sea attracts tens of thousands of people each year to its lively and unique programme of accessible arts and culture.

Arts by the Sea is soon to announce its new for 2021 ‘Family Route’ which will highlight the numerous engaging workshops and experiences specially geared towards families, children and young people.

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For all performance times, dates and locations, visitors are advised to check out the Arts by the Sea website.

The festival is free to attend, but there is an entrance charge at Russell-Cotes as per the gallery's standard admission process.

To find out more, visit www.artsbythesea.co.uk.