THE line-up for the annual Bewdley Festival has been announced featuring a host of big names. 

Taking place at four different venues in Bewdley, the programme offers an array of multi-arts events that feature music, drama, exhibitions, talks, poetry, comedy and the visual arts.

The festival will feature evening performances as well as daytime events.

The festival opens at West Midlands Safari Park's Treetops Pavilion with the world-famous Ruby Turner on October 11.

The following day at St Georges Hall, writer Henry Normal and comedian Nigel Planer will be taking to the stage. 

Musician, novelist and BBC documentary star Darren McGarvey will also be appearing, whilst star of BBC Songs of Praise Aled Jones will be hosting an evening exploring his life and singing some favourites.

The legendary psychedelic band Soft Machine will be performing at the Treetops Pavilion.

One event will see radio presenter Jane Garvey interview baroness Jacqui Smith, the first female Home Secretary.

BBC Radio’s Clare Teal and her band will also be leading a 'dance party' at the Treetops Pavilion

The festival concludes with the Bath Abbey Choir performing in concert at St Anne’s Church.

The daytime programme will feature talks from broadcaster Emily Dean, local naturalists Brett Westwood and Gregory Leadbetter and local writers Martin Wall and Richard Clay.

There is a brand new comedy play featuring local actors Claire Worboys and Jonathan Darby in Will & Ani and this year’s art film is Klimt and the Kiss.

A new addition in 2024 is a painting workshop hosted by best-selling watercolour artist and author Sarah Stokes; whilst local historian Max Keen is revisiting the world of Richard III.

Historian and actress Lesley Smith will also be bringing to the stage the Life of Florence Nightingale.

People can check out the full festival line-up and purchase tickets via the Bewdley Festival website.