The St Magnus International Festival is Orkney's annual celebration of the arts, held around the islands at midsummer.

Set in Orkney's incredible landscape in the light nights of midsummer, the Festival carves out a beautiful and distinct shape in the UK's festivals landscape.

This year's multi-artform programme spans the world premiere of David McNeish's new play, Thora, directed by Gerda Stevenson, brings superb dance in the form of Scottish Ballet's debut, sees its first major outdoor installation from Architects of Air, and a strong music line-up courses through it too.

The programme also pairs the young Scottish stars accordionist Ryan Corbett and trumpeter Aaron Akugbo for the first time, sees the Hebrides Ensemble perform Ravel's orchestral works in new arrangements by Festival Director Alasdair Nicolson, and welcomes a strong Dutch contingent including the award-winning young pianist Nikola Meeuwsen, rich Baritone Maarten Koningsberger and several performances by the internationally renowned and exciting Ragazze Quartet including Winterreise in an arrangement by Dutch violist Wim ten Have.

The Festival spans venues from Pier Arts Centre to St Magnus Cathedral, stunning churches nestled scenically on the coast, Stromness Town Hall, The Writing Room at Kirkwall Hotel and the Pickaquoy Centre.

Tickets will go on sale in April. Keep up-to-date with all the latest plans and programme information on the official St Magnus International Festival website.

, Visit Orkney, Creative Orkney, Culture & Heritage, Arts, Crafts & Design, Culture & Events