PREPARATIONS are underway for the second Now Northwich festival, again set to feature a raft of dance and street art talent from across the world.

Returning to the town centre on Saturday, October 5, the free event from Cheshire Dance and partners will treat families to an afternoon and evening of expressive fun.

From 1pm until late, Now Northwich will see acts perform from Witton Street to Weaver Way and Barons Quay.

From sensational dancers, daring acrobats and rhythmic drummers, to barmy over-sized board games, theatrical rides and gigantic puppets, Now Northwich 2019 is planned to be bigger and better than last year.

More than 26,000 people descended on the streets in 2018 and this year, Cheshire Dance advises the town to once more expect the unexpected.

Director of Cheshire Dance, Adam Holloway, said: “Last year culminated with shrieks of excitement from the crowds who watched in awe as a herd of wild dinosaurs roamed the streets.

"It was truly unexpected and this year, we’re looking to surpass all expectations.

Knutsford Guardian:

"Once again, Now Northwich will make quality, international performances locally accessible and will provide the community with a truly unique experience.”

Whilst the complete line-up is yet to be announced, Cheshire Dance has confirmed headline act Insectes, by Spanish company Sarruga.

Insectes will cause an uprising on the streets with a jaw-dropping processional performance of gigantic ants, carnivorous plants and gargantuan creepy crawlies.

A new family zone will include hands-on activities, as will a separate youth zone.

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The Family Fun Palace will once again be staged at Northwich Library, with a selection of artisan food and beverage stalls situated in the family zone.

Jane McLean, creative director at Cheshire Dance, said: “Now Northwich will be a colourful extravaganza for everyone, with performances to turn the senses upside down, shows to arouse creative minds and opportunities for visitors young and old to come together to watch or participate.

Knutsford Guardian:

"With the chance to experience some of the best local, national and international talent around – and for free – Now Northwich is the event to see.”

Now Northwich, part of the Without Walls Creative Development Network, is organised by Cheshire Dance in collaboration with Cheshire West and Chester Council, Northwich Town Council and Barons Quay, and is supported with funding from Arts Council England, CWAC, Northwich BID, Charcoal Blue and member’s budgets.

Cllr Louise Gittins, CWAC leader, said: “We were told to expect the unexpected last year and the first Now Northwich delivered just that.

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"All of the performances last year were captivating and I can’t pick a favourite but I was certainly wowed along with the crowds at the Saurus performers from the Netherlands – and from what I’ve seen so far, we are in for a treat this year with giant Spanish insects swarming around the town.

“I’ve been looking at the emerging programme and it’s going to be as exciting. Thanks to the various arts groups working in the background, Northwich town centre and the Barons Quay performance spaces are going to be positively buzzing again.”

See nownorthwich.co.uk or search for 'Now Northwich' on social media.