Kingston's much-loved FUSE International (previously IYAF) returns this July, bringing a host of artistic talent from across the UK and around the world to Kingston town centre.

The festival is brought to the borough by local charity, Creative Youth, born with an ambition to encourage and celebrate the creativity of young people – which are defined as ages 5 to 26.

FUSE, previously known as the International Youth Arts Festival, was first held at the Rose Theatre back in 2009 and has since become the largest festival of its kind in the UK.

Running from the 1st – 10th July, over 50 events across film, music, theatre and the visual arts will take place over the ten days, ensuring there is something for all ages to come and enjoy.

For children and families, Circus Abyssinia is one of the eye-catching performances on show throughout the week.

Inspired by Ethiopian Olympic legend, Derartu Tulu, the audience are taken on her journey becoming the first African woman to win Olympic gold, bridging a runner's breathless pursuit of her dreams with the breath-taking wonders of circus.

Young ones are also invited to come and meet the outrageous mermaids and fantastical sea creatures who live in the wonderful "Wagon of Dreams'.

A playful, inventive family show, set on a retro caravan: packed with poetry, music and laughter.

Plenty of exhibitions and workshops will be occurring throughout the week including 'An Introduction to Comic Book Illustration'.

Lucie Arnoux is a French illustrator based in Kingston. She's been drawing for Creative Youth for 10 years, starting as a volunteer and now an internationally published comic book author.

Join Lucie as she gives you a workshop full of comics and illustrations with exciting demonstrations and examples of how to do it yourself!

'An Introduction to Film Scoring' is also an insightful workshop on offer for attendees. A chance to listen in to discussions regarding key art industry topics and is brought to FUSE festival by Creative Youth's talent programme helping to support young emerging artists.

After the huge success in 2021, FUSE will return with a glittering showcase of film celebrating the work of young film makers and sharing the creative talents of incredible casts and crews.

They will be opening with a screening of Team Spirit by Jordy Deelight. A documentary in which Jordy investigates the LGBT+ presence in football, featuring guests from different backgrounds, who identify as LGBTQIA +, and professionals who work in football.

Team Spirit brings together communities to share stories and educate those on what queer identity looks like and to celebrate the joys football can bring to lives.

FUSE will have festival goers covered on the music front all week across the genres. Battle of the Bands will feature two different age categories, with a total of 8 bands fighting to see who will come out on top.

Head on down to the Rose Theatre, rock out, and discover who will be crowned the victor in this incredible music battle.

To mark the 50th anniversary of David Bowie performing as Ziggy Stardust for the first time at the Toby Jug in Tolworth, FUSE will be celebrating the icon that influenced music, sexuality, design and fashion.

Friday, July 8th will be a night of Bowie through three bands giving different essences of the legend alongside some of their own original work.

Dressing up is highly encouraged, so get your glittery glad rags on and come and celebrate.

To view the full festival programme and book your tickets, head to the FUSE festival website now.