AN exciting fortnight of art and culture kicks off this weekend, with the launch of the 14th Kidderminster Arts Festival (KAF).

The festival - which this year has the theme of “patterns” - runs from Saturday (August 12) until Sunday, August 27.

The fortnight features music, dance, workshops, shows, exhibitions and much more.

The Summer Street Saturdays will bring free entertainment to the town centre on August 12, 19 and 26.

On August 12, there is a light-hearted puppet show with a pinch of slapstick. Audiences of all ages will enjoy watching ‘The Alchemist’. Performances are 20 minutes and start at 10.30am, 12.45pm and 2.15pm, in Exchange Place.

Also on August 12, Dizzy O’Dare will bring his hilarious ‘Giant Balloon Show’ to Exchange Place. Shows are at 11am and 1pm. ‘Dancing Your Dreams’ features a bed for a stage and can be seen at 10am, 12.10pm and 2.30pm.

You can create your own art too. There are giant chime bars which light up and make music when touched at the top of Worcester Street and there is a chance to get involved in the patterns of Kidderminster project with work with artists outside the Town Hall.

Over the fortnight, there are performances at Kidderminster Town Hall too. Kel Elliot and her Three Man Orchestra is playing on Wednesday, August 16. Kel is a double bass playing singer, who also likes to tell a story or two! Tickets are £7.

Kidderminster Male Choir will present ‘Last Night of the Proms’ on Saturday, August 19. The audience can expect a patriotic evening of rousing songs, flag waving and sing-along classics. Tickets start at £10.

Running throughout the festival is an exhibition at the Museum of Carpet featuring the work of Lucienne Day - one of Britain’s leading textile designers, who brought contemporary colour to the post-war period.

Councillor Juliet Smith, Wyre Forest District Council cabinet member for culture, leisure and community protection, said: “This year’s KAF is jam packed with fabulous entertainment for all the family and the majority is free.

“From the wonderful street entertainment on Saturdays, to the outdoor cinema event in Brinton Park on August 27, there is something for everyone!”

For more information about all the events during KAF, visit kidderminsterartsfestival.org.uk.

To book tickets, visit wyreforestdc.gov.uk/bookings or call 01562 732984.