Wolverhampton University to launch arts festival in celebration of the Black Country

Artsfest will take place from May 9 to June 13 at a host of venues across the region.

Events include dance, theatre and musical performances, art exhibitions, workshops and educational sessions for schools and college groups.

Dr John Pymm, dean of the faculty of arts, said: "We're delighted to be launching our first Artsfest.

"Our aim is to celebrate the creative and cultural life of our region, and the huge impact the arts make in our everyday lives.

"There is a full programme of events, with something for everyone, whether you enjoy music concerts, going to the theatre and arts exhibitions or simply trying your hand at something new."

Highlights include a concert to celebrate 70 years of music at the university with a performance at the city's Arena Theatre on June 6 featuring six pianos.

The university's annual fashion show takes place on June 9 at Grand Station.

There will also be a pot luck reading event at the Lych Gate Tavern on May 28 from 6pm, where people can bring a poem or short story written by themselves or someone else to read.

In addition, #tweetfest will be running throughout Artsfest encouraging people to get involved on Twitter by creating a story, writing a poem or sharing their thought for the day in just 140 characters.

For a full programme visit wlv.ac.uk/artsfest and use #wlvartsfest on Twitter.