FOR three weeks this summer, Basingstoke will be transformed into a town alive with art.

This year’s Basingstoke Festival revolves around the concept of discovering art in unusual places, with visitors able to uncover a wealth of talent in places they would not expect, from shops and businesses to libraries and parks across every corner of the borough.

In previous years, the festival has followed a theme each year, like last year’s subject of Jane Austen.

However, organisers of the event, which is run by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, are hoping to build an identity around ‘art in unusual places’.

Arts and events manager at the borough council, Ross Harvie said: “We wanted to introduce things which were a little bit different and a little bit quirky which will peak people’s curiosity.”

“As well as local artists we have been really fortunate enough to get so internationally renowned performers, which we hope will be appealing for future years of the festival.” As well as a range of free events throughout the three weeks, each day will provide something a little bit different.

The festivities get underway on Friday, 15 June with a life-sized, 3D version of the timeless pen and paper favourite game hangman outside the Willis Museum at the Top of The Town followed by a performance of the Dick Danger show, where he attempts the impossible as he steers his way through a health and safety nightmare.

On Saturday, 16 June, Basingstoke Together is inviting residents to get creative with a day packed full of activities including Circo Rum Ba Ba inviting guests to cast off their shoes and squeeze into its true-to-life 50ft inflatable Sperm Whale.

To round off the opening weekend, people are being invited to take a walk with Debbie Reavell who will lead a tour of the town’s public art, explaining who made it, why and what it represents.

For a full list of this year’s Basingstoke Festival events and more details, go to visit basingstokefestival.co.uk.