HATHERLEIGH?S annual festival begins today (Thursday) with four fabulous days of art, music, theatre and street entertainment for all to enjoy.

Among the main events at the ninth annual festival is an evening mixing live music and surreal stand-up comedy tomorrow (Friday).

Radio 4 regular Matt Harvey will be sharing his hilarious sideways look at society. He will be joined by Chagford?s confused genius Steve Park.

Also on the bill are Stiff Joints, sponsored by WBB Minerals. The six-piece band who play hard-driven blues and rock classics as well as their own material. The evening kicks off at 9.30pm at the George, tickets £5.

Also on Friday, the Clown Intelligence Agency pay a visit to Hatherleigh, bringing their comedy fiasco for grown-ups, Sidewalk.

It is a show unlike anything you?ve ever seen before, featuring two waiters who explore the themes of expectation and anticipation.

The show takes place in the town hall from 8pm, with just 40 tickets available.

Back by popular demand on Saturday, July 10, are the Black Eagles, the brilliant Tanzanian acrobats who will astound with their feats of agility. There are two chances to catch their performance in the marquee; at 6.30pm and 8pm.

Saturday?s other highlights include the salty sea captain Bob and Bob Jobbins; Vinnie the Clown; and music from the Hard Place Band and Junior Hacksaw.

Fans of classical music won?t be left out as tonight (Thursday), there will be a concert by soprano Angela Henkle accompanied by acclaimed harpsichordist John Marston. They will be performing works by Purcell, Handel and Vivaldi.

The final day (Sunday) will feature performance poet Jim MacCool, whose Ionan Tales were premiered at the Sunday Times Literary Festival and have toured constantly at home and abroad since.

Jim, a poet in the Shanakee tradition, will give a rendition of the Salmon?s Tale, a startling and troubling allegory for our troubled times. The show takes place at the George from 7.30pm, tickets £5.

Other treats on Sunday include a radical production of Hamlet by Miracle Theatre, which promises a mind-altering brew of music, laughter, horror and tears, all set in the gardens of Hatherleigh Place.

There are also a number of exhibitions on show throughout the festival, including a series of paintings by artist Margaret Dean celebrating the world of aviation pioneer Amy Johnson, on display at the Salar Gallery.

Hatherleigh Festival Box Office is 01837 810624 or for more information log on to http://www.hatherleigh-festival.co.uk">www.hatherleigh-festival.co.uk