The programme has been revealed for two weeks of entertainment in Bury St Edmunds which will be like a “mini Edinburgh Festival” for children.

The Theatre Royal in the town is spearheading plans for the first ever Children’s Arts Festival in Suffolk, which will take place from June 22 to July 6

During the two weeks families and young people will be able to see some of the best professional work from across the UK at the theatre, the Apex, Conservatoire EAST, which is based at West Suffolk College and in schools across the region.

Tickets are now on sale for the festival, which will kick off on June 23 at the Apex with When Trolls Try To Eat Your Goldfish which is written and performed by poet Dommy B from BBC’s Rhyme Rocket.

Director of the Theatre Royal, Karen Simpson, said: “This is such an exciting time for the arts organisations in Bury St Edmunds to work together to produce something really special for the children and families living within our region.

“I always imagined it to be like a mini Edinburgh Festival for families but based here in East Anglia.

“We have over 50 performances taking place and that means that so many people of all ages will get the opportunity to experience first-rate work that is inspiring, creative and entertaining.”

Also part of the programme is family concert Crazy Creatures, at Conservatoire EAST at West Suffolk College, on June 26 and 27, a baby disco at the Apex on June 28 and Puss in Boots at the Theatre Royal on June 30.

As well as families, organisers will work with around 30 primary and middle schools in the area. Ms Simpson said: “We have focused on the performing arts, so drama, dance, poetry and music all play an important part in the choices on offer.

“In addition to being able to buy single tickets for events we are also launching festival passes to make it easier for people to experience a wide range of different arts activities.”

To see the programme visit www.theatreroyal.org/upcoming/family