MUSICIANS and artists are preparing to take over Droitwich.

During the Droitwich Music and Drama Festival there will be an explosion of drama, dance, jazz, blues, folk and rock. Starting on Sunday, July 1, and running for 15 days, the historic spa town will also host a number of free events as well as the musical Little Shop Of Horrors.

One big name taking part is renowned classical guitarist, pianist and composer Hayley Savage, who is set to perform at the Sacred Heart Church Hall.

Since graduating from the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Hayley has established a dual career in performance and composition, which has taken her to Europe, Scandinavia, Africa, America and Canada.

The Norbury Theatre production Of Little Shop of Horrors will run for two weeks. The musical, about a nerdy florist shop worker who raises a plant that feeds on human blood, is based on the low-budget black comedy film of the same name.

It features 1960s rock and roll, doo-wop and Motown-style music and stars a host of amateur actors well-known in Worcestershire.

Free events at the festival include brass bands in the lido park, choral concerts and Irish folk nights. The town should be buzzing with dozens of other events, including Droitwich Rotary Club's party in the park on Sunday, July 15 , and the Canal Trust's water festival on Sunday, July 1.

Tickets for pre-paid events can be bought online and full listings of events will soon be available at www. droitwich spa.com. For more information call the Norbury Theatre box office on 01905 770154.