A FREE outdoor event showcasing newly-commissioned artwork, live performances, film and video kicks off at Grizedale today (Friday).

Roadshow is an outdoor weekend event presented and performed in and around a new architectural structure designed by artists and curators FlatPack001. The 30-metre marquee will house a stage and cinema, and act as the central platform for Roadshow.

The event has been devised and developed by Grizedale Arts, FlatPack001 and the many artists who have all been commissioned to make new work. They include Polly Braden, winner of The Guardian student photographer of the year; Nat Mellors, whose new 16mm film The Walk was shot on location in Grizedale; Kevin Butler, performing as stuntman extraordinaire Harry Butler, and doing BMX stunts from the Ring of Fire to miniature biscuit jumps; and Paul Rooney, performing Tony's a Winner, a new musical based on a press cutting found at the Laurel and Hardy Museum, in Ulverston.

Affordable artworks will be for sale, and a Battle of the Bands contest will be hosted. Also featured will be children's activities from bread-making to karaoke, an outdoor pizza oven, and a New Age fair. Visitors are welcome to bring a tent and camp out.

Roadshow runs at Grizedale today, Saturday and Sunday, before going on tour.

For a full programme, call 01229-860291 or email info@grizedale.org

May 22, 2003 11:30