IF you've ever fancied yourself as a budding Steven Spielberg or Sir Peter Hall then an exciting new project being launched in Breckland this summer could be just the thing you are looking for.

IF you've ever fancied yourself as a budding Steven Spielberg or Sir Peter Hall then an exciting new project being launched in Breckland this summer could be just the thing you are looking for.

For the first Breckland Theatre Festival is to be launched and it will see a colourful variety of live shows being staged in village halls and community centres throughout the region.

Residents could find themselves taking on the roles of director and promoters in their local communities with the launch of Breckland Theatre Festival.

The festival is being organised by Breckland Council in partnership with Creative Arts East and is seen as an ambitious project running from the end of July to mid-August and will feature puppetry and theatre shows for youngsters and larger variety shows for family audiences.

Using the formula that proved so successful with the Breckland Film Festival project, the Council will start the ball rolling by recruiting voluntary theatre promoters interested in organising and hosting live performances in their town or village halls.

There is to be an introductory event at Dereham Leisure Centre on March 22 from 6.30pm until 8.30pm. Festival organisers will explain what is involved in becoming a theatre promoter and the level of commitment required. Those promoters recruited will then be given further training and guidance looking at such areas as how to promote arts events to community audiences, health and safety and suitability of premises.

Breckland Council's executive member for communities and benefits, Theresa Hewett, said the aim is to build on the success of the Breckland Film Festival, support voluntary and community groups and give Breckland residents the opportunity to enjoy live performance on their doorstep.

“The council is working with Creative Arts East, whose Rural Touring Theatre initiative offers a wide selection of shows suitable for smaller venues so theatre promoters will be able to choose a performance suited to their own community.

For more information about the project contact Breckland Council Arts officer, Sam Dawson, on 01362 656870.