ASTRONOMY-THEMED entertainment means summer will be out of this world at Dorchester Arts.

The season will include folk music, classical concerts, theatre and family shows at the Corn Exchange and outdoor events at Maumbury Rings and beyond, as well as a fabulous fundraiser with Dillie Keane at Whitcombe Manor.

*Recently described as having “quite possibly the world's most beautiful female voice” by Mojo magazine, Irish folk singer Cara Dillon presents an evening in June of material from her new album Wanderer, which is a collection of beautiful and moving songs recorded in an intimate setting with her husband and musical partner Sam Lakeman.

*Alistair McGowan will be paying a visit to Dorchester in July. Known as an impressionist and comedian, Alistair is also a talented pianist and will be presenting a show which brings all of his talents together. Expect a lot of beautiful classical piano pieces and more than a sprinkling of his trademark impressions.

*One of the highlights of the summer will be a weekend full of lunar-themed events to mark 50 years since man went to the moon (19-21 July). Friday sees the weekend starting with a musical performance of Apollo – One Giant Leap! by Dorchester-based musician and composer Geoff Edge, involving 500 school children from Dorchester Schools. Saturday sees a space-themed open-air cinema event, followed by a science family fun day on the Sunday. All taking place under the internationally famous Museum of the Moon – a seven metre diameter giant moon, suspended and shining over Maumbury Rings.

There will be theatre performances at Maumbury Rings featuring Dorchester favourites Miracle Theatre and ycling actors The Handlebards as well as a wonderful treat for families in The Legend of King Arthur by Boxtree Productions.

This year also sees Dorchester Arts packing its bags for the seaside with its first ever collaboration with the Nothe Fort in Weymouth providing the perfect backdrop for The Pirates of Penzance.

The summer season would not be complete without the popular fundraising event, A Summer Sunday. Traditionally held at beautiful Whitcombe Manor at the kind invitation of Minette and Alec Walters, this year welcomes the outrageously funny, Olivier-Award-nominated actress, singer and comedian Dillie Keane (best known as a member of Fascinating Aida).

To see everything that is going on at Dorchester Arts this summer, pick up a brochure or visit dorchesterarts.org.uk