A CELEBRATION of regional theatre is coming to Salisbury Playhouse and the Arts Centre.

Theatre Fest West starts on March 25 and includes a varied programme of plays, comedy, visual arts, dance, film and shows for children.

This is the festival’s second year and it has grown to include 25 events over three weeks.

There is also a new writing showcase on April 2 in the Salberg Studio with extracts and monologues demonstrating the work of local writers.

Highlights of the festival include Everyman Theatre’s production of Cider with Rosie at Salisbury Playhouse from April 9 to 13, The Count of Monte Cristo on April 5 and 6 and Kilter Theatre’s Last Post which will be performed in a Luton Van to an audience of just 17 on April 3 and 4.

The children’s programme includes The Elves and the Shoemaker, a creative dance workshop for adults and youngsters, and puppetry with Snow Baby and Stones and Bones.

At Salisbury Arts Centre the festival takes on the theme of love with My Baby Just Cares for Me about a daughter’s love for her father, French cabaret with On the Banks of the Seine and Love Letters Straight from Your Heart which concludes the programme on April 14.

There is a conference about producing theatre for young audiences, local comedians at Barnstormers Comedy night on March 29, a film finale with screenings of local work and a free Open Mic night on March 28, where performers can show off their talents.

For full listings call the Playhouse box office 01722 320333 or visit salisburyplayhouse.com, or contact the Arts Centre on 01722 321744 or visit salisburyartscentre.co.uk.