TICKETS are set to go on sale for this year's Dorchester Festival.

East meets West at this year's festival, which is organised by Dorchester Arts Centre and gets underway on April 29.

More than 75 events have been lined up during the five day festival, which has an oriental theme, and organisers are confident that there will be something to suit all tastes.

Jennie Runeckles, festival co-ordinator, said: "Dorchester Festival involves hundreds of international, national and locally based artists and performers with 75 events over five days. We're featuring East Asian culture and East Meets West in an explosion of colour, sound and energy.

"We also celebrate the talent in our midst, with lots of community involvement from over 25 local groups.

"The Box Office opens this month. We're already getting lots of enquiries, so put the dates in your diary and pick up your brochure for full details of what's happening. It'll be out from March 15 and has a handy booking form included."

The borough gardens will come alive during the festival with three days of free events, music, dance, a food tent and noodle bar.

"There will be masses to see and do on Saturday, Sunday and Monday, May 1 to 3, from 11am to 5pm every day. It's a great place to bring the family or a group of friends.

"Come and join the fun - everyone is very welcome, and it's absolutely free," said Mrs Runeckles.

She said the festival is a huge project and relies on the support of volunteers to help steward at events, rattle tins, sit in at exhibitions and generally help out.

"We have a great team, but we welcome enquiries from new volunteers."

Sharon Hayden, Festival Director, said: "We have had generous support from local businesses and hope that lots of traders will benefit from the Festival. The quality of life in Dorchester is improved through a culturally diverse Festival such as Dorchester Arts Centre offers."

Headline performers include BBC Radio 4's popular Quote Unquote, authentic Beijing Opera, fusion band Shiva Nova, Buddhist song and dance from the Tashi Lhunpo Monks at Dorset County Museum on the Sunday.

There will be a chance to sing Gilbert & Sullivan's Mikado in a day led by Musical Director Christine Page.

Top comedienne Linda Smith is appearing, and writer/actor Jane Lapotaire, introduced by Minette Walters, gives an author talk on the Sunday at The Corn Exchange.

Ms Haydn said: "Dorchester Festival is Dorchester Arts Centre's big project for 2004. The festival is supported by the Arts Council, Dorchester Town Council, Dorset County Council, West Dorset District Council, trusts, partnerships and sponsorships from local businesses.

The Dorchester Festival brochure is available from mid March from Libraries, Tourist Information Centres, and shops, or phone Dorchester Arts Centre on 01305 266926 for a free copy.