Returning for a second year following its debut in 2013, Unexpeted 2014, produced by Exeter City Council, is a three-day celebration focusing on circus and dance with digital art, historic buildings and parks all part of the programme, alongside a range of public workshops allowing everyone to show off their creativity.
As part of the First World War centenary programme, there will be an evocative artistic interpretation of First World War recruitment centres from 1914. The Great Fete, which takes place on 30 August within Exeter's Rougemont and RAMM gardens, will invite guests to sing songs in the style of popular music halls of the era, make poppies, try hands-on physical challenges and take part in a tea dance to a live Palm Court trio, all under the atmospheric watch of costumed performers, nurses and recruitment officers.
On 29 and 30 Aug, adventurous dramatists from Burn the Curtain will present The Company of Wolves, an interactive performance which will lead guests through the woods in a tale based on the spooky-themed stories of Angela Carter. Setting off at dusk, audiences will be able to walk or run alongside the players in a performance lit by torches and lights.
NoFit State will head Circus Sunday taking place on 31 August, teaching visitors how to balance, jump and throw shapes, before leading the cosutmed Carnival Parade Fesival finale.
In Princesshay and Blue Boy Square, performers Le Navet Bete will attempt to create a gigantic, human multi-hooping tower.
Councillor Rosie Denham, lead councillor for economy and culture, said: "Unexpected 2014 makes these stunning performances accessible and highly fun for visitors and residents drawn to the city, adding to Exeter's ever-growing status as the cultural hub of the south west.
"We are immensely grateful for the support of sponsors and funding from the National Lottery via Arts Council England. This enables the festival to bring companies like NoFit State to Exeter and to commission local companies such as Promenade Promotions, Le Navet Bete, Devon Carousel and Nuts and Volts and artists such as Carnival Designer Iola Weir to produce new work in the city."
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