Exeter's Autumn Festival, which runs from 2 to 19 November, is an annual celebration of theatre, dance, visual art, poetry, music, storytelling and comedy in Exeter and the South-west. In addition to demonstrating local talent and initiatives, it ...

Some of the highlights of Exeter's Autumn Festival include: a one-off performance by Mercury Prize-nominated singer-songwriter Kathryn Williams at Exeter Phoenix on 4 November; the inimitable Exeter Festival Chorus' Laudate! at Exeter Cathedral on 8 November; and the Moscow Ballet with its mesmerising version of Sleeping Beauty at Exeter Corn Exchange on 19 November. For the little ones, Exeter Storyworks is putting on a mini story festival at different venues across the city from 16 to18 November, which will include a brand-new family show by the acclaimed Exeter-based Theatre Alibi.

Seven events, taking place in different locations across the city, will open this year's Festival on 2 November. These include a concert by the legendary James Taylor Quartet at the Exeter Phoenix, a stand-up comedy performance by Australia's Brendon Burns at Exeter Corn Exchange, and a special ceilidh for Amnesty International at St James' Church Hall.

Cllr Greg Sheldon, Lead Councillor for Economy and Tourism, said: "As always, Exeter Autumn Festival is about participation as much as performance. There's lots to see and hear, and by taking part in the workshops people will have the opportunity to experience for themselves a range of different activities."

On 3 November Double Elephant Print Workshop is holding a free open day at its St Leonard's base, where people can experiment with printmaking, and on 10 November music development collective Sound Gallery is presenting a VJ workshop as part of its first ERA (Exeter Raising Artists) showcase at the Exeter Phoenix Voodoo Lounge. On the same day, a ceilidh dance workshop with one of the country's top callers, Chris Jewell, will take place at Kalendar Hall, and on 14 November an accordion workshop will be held at the same venue.

The Lord Mayor, Councillor Hazel Slack, will launch the Exeter Autumn Festival 2007 at the Guildhall at 12 noon on 2 November.

For a copy of the Festival brochure call (01392 265885 or visit www.exeter.gov.uk/festival.