Access All Areas festival geared to youth

'Access All Areas' will see over 30 workshops held in a variety of arts, encouraging youngsters to try their hand at dance, drumming, photography, parkour, free-running, hip-hop, DJ, drawing, new media, African song and dance, Bollywood, flamenco, drama and many other disciplines.

Events will also be laid on for adults too, and the festival concludes with a special gig from Bexhill boys Mumm-Ra.

Access All Areas runs over the half-term holiday from October 19 to October 21.

Schools, colleges and youth groups throughout the county have already been sent specially designed 'passes' giving listings for the festival.

It plays host to 'BBC Blast', the BBC's youth creativity project which inspires 13 to 19-year-olds across the UK to get involved in the arts.

A day of music workshops for young people will be delivered by professional, gigging musicians, Rhythmix. The day also features a lunchtime showcase of local bands and offers interactive musical activities. The workshops include MC-ing, digital sampling and composition sessions.

The evening of Sunday, October 21 sees a gig by local band-turned-rock and roll stars Mumm-Ra.

Since forming at the age of 15 as schoolmates in Bexhill - and performing on DLWP's bandstand - Mumm-Ra have been snapped up by Columbia Records, recorded in Granada with legendary producer Youth and toured with The Kooks and Kaiser Chiefs.

Mumm-Ra are supported by two local bands. Loyal 2 None, who take inspiration from legends like Guns'n'Roses and the Chilli Peppers, and Safe 13, one of the successes of Access All Areas 2006.

Stagecoach Buses will be providing discounted travel to the festival, with discount vouchers found in the programme.

De La Warr Pavilion head of education Polly Gifford said: "We wanted something bright and that would make a statement. When we were discussing groups to help us launch the festival the South East Stars were suggested.

"I don't think there is one art that isn't represented in some way this year.

"Most of the work will be on show around the pavilion and there will be some open workshops for anyone to take part in."

The event is backed by the region's district and borough councils, Arts Council England and East Sussex Arts Partnership.

A one day pass costs 3 and a three day pass 5.

For more information on workshops and tickets call the box office on 01424 229111.