Wetherby ready for festivities

Starring at Wetherby - fast-rising comedy star Sarah Millican

The Wetherby Festival makes its return with a host of established acts, as well as local theatre and music groups.

There's something for everyone, with three weeks of dance, drama, comedy, music and children's workshops.

The Pasadena Roof Orchestra brings its mix of 1920s/30s swing and dance to the town.

Folk fans will be in their element with a bill that includes Scottish sensations Blazin' Fiddles.

Simon Mayor & Hilary James will be showcasing their blend of intricately crafted acoustic music while the Leeds Symphony Orchestra will also be performing, with a programme including Verdi, Mendelssohn and Dvorak.

There's a host of dance and drama events. North Country Theatre present "Home on the Range," chronicling the epic journey of a group of Daleswomen from the lead mining communities of Wensleydale to Wyoming and America's Wild West.

Lively folk outfit Blazin' Fiddles will be performing

Subitango and Tango Siempre will be performing displays of tango and the music of 1930s Buenos Aires.

Comedy at this year's event includes TV & radio regular Sarah Millican, while Leeds-based stand-up and compere Silky will introduce a range of up-and-coming comic talent.

Poet Ian McMillan, will team up with Private Eye cartoonist Tony Husband in "A Cartoon History of Here" featuring improvised live action cartoons and poetry themed around Wetherby.

Everest Mountaineer Doug Scott will hosting an event giving vivid accounts of his epic journeys, while Guardian political journalist will be using his savage wit to entertain.

The Literary Lunch sees internationally-celebrated historians Alison Weir and Sarah Gristwood present "The Whore and the Virgin," recounting the fall of Anne Boleyn and the effect her trial and execution had on her daughter, Elizabeth I.

"Yorkshire's Biggest Liar" also returns. Fast becoming an annual event, this is the night where the teller of Yorkshire's tallest tale is crowned by a discerning audience!

This year also sees five completely free lunch-time events. The "Let's Do Lunch" programme features acting workshops and readings, while the Festival concludes with the brand new "Wind-Down Week" - five nights of great entertainment in the relaxing environment of St James Church Crypt.

The Wetherby Festival takes place at various venues around the town from Wednesday 14 October until Friday 6 November 2009.