The programme for this year's Stroud Arts Festival, which runs from October 22 to 29, has been announced.

Building on the success of last year's event, the 2023 event marks the first in a series of three festivals, building up to the 80th year of the festival in 2026.

Founded in 1946 by local benefactors Netlam and Margaret Bigg, Stroud Arts Festival is one of the oldest festivals in the region. Whilst its initial purpose was religious, the goal was always to inspire and engage local people of all ages and backgrounds through a blend of performance, musical and visual arts.

For 77 years now, the festival has brought world class ballet, opera, choral and chamber music to local venues, as well as giving local professional artists the opportunity to perform.

In its earlier years, the festival gained an international reputation for the calibre of its events. In the 1960s and 70s, its poetry competition drew over 900 entries from 35 countries!

These aspirations continue to drive the festival today - under the artistic direction of local musical hero Dave Ayre, the festival programme is focused on having an impact on the people of Stroud and its surrounding villages. This is no mean feat given the wealth of festivals this area now has to offer - 22 at the last count!

As the founder of several, funding partner for many, and the grandparent of them all, the festival remains true to its goals, with a continued focus on more traditional forms of music, voice, theatre and visual arts, always with an eye on accessibility, inclusivity and, above all, impact.

Organisers want audiences of all ages and backgrounds to feel the deep inspiration that the arts can bring. With free entry, the relaxed performances bring classical opera to the broadest possible audience. lLow ticket prices for other events open the door to children and young people, and talks and workshops add an educational aspect.

Festival artistic director Dave Ayre said: "I'm delighted to present my third programme as artistic director, returning this year with world class musicians, artists and performers and a twist on the classical, traditional art forms.

"With blends of classical music, choral works, jazz arrangements and scintillating dance alongside visual art, silent film and musical theatre, it's a high-energy programme to feed our souls, stimulate our emotions and lift our spirits.

"My passion for music and the power it has to transform, heal and sustain us goes hand in hand with my desire to make these experiences accessible and inclusive for all to share.

"I hope this programme, with our subsidised and free ticket schemes, the relaxed performances and low ticket prices for under-18s gives everyone the opportunity to experience the joy of live performance.

"We look forward to sharing some exciting performances with the people across the district of Stroud!"

Among the highlights of the festival are:

• The Bristol Ensemble chamber orchestra delivering an exhilarating version of Pink Floyd's iconic album Dark Side of the Moon, to celebrate its 50 year anniversary.
• The London Tango Quintet presenting an evening of virtuoso music by the legendary Argentinian composer Astor Piazzolla, interspersed with stunning instrumental solos.
• Composer Will Todd invites local choirs to come and sing his Mass in Blue, celebrating the 20th anniversary of this exciting work.
• A concert of Duke Ellington's Sacred Music, which he himself called, "the most important thing I have ever done".
• "Superbly gifted" actor and singer Lucy Stevens recreates the musical comedy of Gertrude Lawrence, one of Britain's brightest theatrical stars.
• Harpist Elizabeth Jane Baldry returns this year after a very popular event in 2022, with another score guaranteed to enthral.
• Also back is relaxed opera, presenting a wonderful, inclusive new production by the festival's own, unique ensemble of professional singers and musicians.

All tickets now available from the Stroud Arts Festival website or The Sub Rooms.