EXETER is hosting the seventh UK Taiko Festival next weekend with a three-day packed programme of events of inspirational taiko performances and workshops.

The entertainment kicks of next Friday, July 8, with the National Youth Taiko Concert.

Youth taiko groups from all over the UK will come together at Exeter Northcott to perform in a spirit of celebration.

The popular show, which starts at 7.30pm, promises to be a great night of unstoppable energy.

The following day, Saturday, July 9, free Have a Go at Taiko workshops are being held throughout the day at Northernhay Gardens, Exeter.

Free live taiko performances from adult and youth groups from all over the UK, including Exeter's own Kagemusha Taiko group and Tano Taiko will also be held in the gardens.

That evening, festival headlines Taikoproject from Los Angeles will be performing at Northcott Theatre.

On the Sunday live taiko performances can be enjoyed at Exeter Quay from 11am to 3pm, and taiko workshops for experienced players are being held during the day at Exeter Phoenix.

Tickets for the Friday concert, starting at 7.30pm, cost £8/£7 under 16s.

Tickets for the Saturday concert, starting at 7.30pm, cost from £12.50 to £22.

For more details on these events and more, please contact Exeter Northcott on 01392 493493 or visit the website at www.kagemusha.com.