Diversity and creativity are the hallmarks of the Norfolk And Norwich Festival which returns with another huge selection of music, dance, story-telling and stage performances from Friday, 4 to Saturday, 19 May. Full line-up A packed programme of orchestras, choirs, jazz and classical musicians is running as usual, but this year there is an extra special welcome for children with a carefully selected line-up of performances, workshops and activities. The festival launches with a free family-friendly party where hammers and saws will play music veering from classical to funk outside The Forum, in Norwich, from 5.30pm. Highlights over the 16 days include acclaimed violinist Tasmin Little's concert with the City Of London Sinfonia, the first visit to Norwich by the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir - recognised as one of the best in the world - and a recital by cellist Natalie Clein. Top trombonist Dennis Rollins and his BBC Jazz Awards' Best Band of 2006, Badbone And Co, will wrap up the celebration with the debut of Soul Journey - a piece featuring the city's Bigger Sky choir. Family friendly
 | | Circus Ronaldo is returning for more fun |
Festival regulars Circus Ronaldo will pitch up their vintage tent in Chapelfield Gardens again - with parents also able to keep their children's imaginations fired with a selection of other fun-filled events. There's a free carnival-style family day, a show for babies between 12 and 18 months old and a wondrous labyrinth, The Upside Down World, where children have to use all their senses to find their way through. There's also a children's concert in which Yorkshire poet Ian McMillan narrates Stravinsky's The Soldier's Tale in his northern accent. From 10 to 13 May, teenagers keen to find new skills or hone their interests can try film-making, take part in rock workshops and learn how to make great radio - as well as many other things. BBC Blast's mobile studio is pitching up outside the station's home in Norwich at The Forum. Places for the sessions must be pre-booked. To book festival tickets call the box office on 01603 766 400. For full listings go to the official website - linked at the top of this page. | 
