The 10 Parishes Festival starts this Saturday with many artist open studios and live performances spread over nine days.

The theme this year is the B3227 road that stretches from west of Taunton through many of the festival’s ten parishes.

Some artists have adopted this in their work, including Victoria Ward who has produced series of maps that reflect each parish, all inspired by the 16th century Ottoman navigational maps of Piri Reis.

Somerset County Gazette:

Victoria will be exhibiting in Wiveliscombe Community Centre, along with Teresa Wilson, Chris Howe and John Abraham.

The opening weekend has a number of high profile events including the festival street market and carnival procession in Wiveliscombe on Sunday.

The theme for the carnival procession is ‘Go Wild – Back to the Jungle!’ and organisers are expecting another fun and creative family event.

Saturday sees Taunton Thespians return with a sample of Shakespearean pieces presented in a rehearsed reading at Cotleigh Brewery, which is also a venue for Wivelele – Wiveliscombe’s community ukulele group on Friday, September 15, and renowned folk duo the Askew Sisters the following evening.

Also this Saturday there will be a performance of The Soldier’s Tale at Wellhayes Vineyard, Clayhanger. This is a renowned drama written in WW1 with music by Igor Stravinsky & Libretto by Charles Ferdinand Ramuz.

Those who enjoy singing can make their way to Ashbrittle on the same evening for the ‘Big Sing’ with Yvette Staelens in the village hall.

Those who prefer film can experience Sjostrom’s ‘Phantom Carriage’ with live music at Wiveliscombe Primary School.

Families have enjoyed The House of F at previous festivals which returns with another exceptional creative exhibition and workshops.

Visitors can expect Feral Forest Fairies in Magical La La Land at Kenley near Waterrow.

For more information and booking for the many festival events visit 10parishesfestival.org.uk