THEATRE is coming to the people this weekend when actors and performers take to the streets of Darlington.

As part of the Orange Darlington Festival, various street theatre acts are coming to the town.

To get people in the mood for the festival, which starts on Saturday, the Golam Theatre company was in the market square yesterday to entertain shoppers.

As well as professional theatre performers appearing around the town, there will be a chance during the festival for aspiring stars to demonstrate their own skills.

Young performers can enter a talent competition on Saturday between 11.30am and 2pm and on Monday older performers can try their hand between noon and 1pm.

The grand final of the talent competition will be held between 3pm and 4pm on Monday.

John Williams, Leader of Darlington Borough Council said: "Darlington Borough Council is proud to work in partnership with Orange to bring to the residents and visitors to Darlington, such a diverse, fun-filled weekend of family entertainment,

"The emphasis this year is join in - so don't be shy, have a go at some thing new and above all have fun!"

The Orange Darlington Festival is sponsored by the mobile phone company.

l For details of music at the Orange Festival log on to The Northern Echo's music website at www.thisisthenortheast.co.uk/revolution