FESTIVAL fever has hit Ross on Wye, transforming the rural town into star-studded hub of activity.

The major artists began arriving on Wednesday shortly after the huge marquees were erected at the Waterside site and stunning flags draping around the town.

The Ross International Festival began yesterday with an exclusive UK premiere of L'Oratorio d'Aurelia - a magical piece of theatre performed by Aurlia Thierre, actress, illusionist and granddaughter of the great Charlie Chaplin.

The opening day also saw an aquatic parade through the town and a performance by Orchestra Baobab, Afro-Cuban kings of the World Music circuit.

"It's all very exciting now that the festival is here," said executive director David Bilton.

"All the last few months have been leading up to this. I'm sure local people find it really exciting that things are happening now."

The festival runs until Sunday, August 17, and features musical performances from Van Morrison, a long time friend of the festival, The Hollies, Elkie Brooks, Beth Orton, Tony Hadley and The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

In a bid to extend the appeal of the festival, a triple-bill gig featuring R'n'B group Big Brovaz, 3SL and Haydon will take place on Friday, August 15.

"Ticket sales for Big Brovaz are exceeding all expectations, which is why we took the decision to move outdoors," said Mr Bilton. "This will be the perfect summer's gig with lots of atmosphere."

The gig will take place on a specially constructed stage at the Waterside site with standing room only,

Tickets for The Hollies, due to appear on Saturday, August 9, have sold out and The Waterboys, Elkie Brooks, and The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra are filling up fast.

As well as music, the festival is playing host to comedians Jeremy Hardy and Rhona Cameron and actor Stephen Berkoff will be performing One Man, a two act social satire.

Theatre includes a musical version of Moby Dick, street performances by Natural Theatre, a production of Carmen by Opera Box, and a 90-minute version of Wagner's Ring Cycle by French company Les Grooms (The Bellboys).

Eva Yerbabuena, considered the hottest dancer on the Flamenco scene, will be leading a company of five dancers in a display of sensuous and sensational dance.

Reservations for the festival have been made from as far afield as Australia, the USA, Israel and several European countries.

For a full listing of events log on to www.rossonwye-intfestival.org.uk. Tickets are available from 01989 562562.