A FESTIVAL of international children’s theatre, packed with innovative shows to inspire youngsters of all ages, is being staged in Birmingham from Saturday July 2.

The city is hosting On the Edge - the 2016 World Festival of Theatre for Young Audiences – the first time it has been held in the UK.

It features 16 shows by artists from 14 countries, including the UK, Ireland, Belgium, Burkina Faso, Australia and South Korea, at various venues with the Birmingham Repertory Theatre as the main festival hub.

There is also an extensive programme of workshops, events and discussions about theatre for young audiences for those that work in the theatre industry.

In addition to families and schools audiences, the festival is expected to attract around 500 international visitors to discuss and explore how theatre can continue to strive and push boundaries for future young audiences and also to encourage international exchange and collaboration.

It runs until Saturday July 9 and full listings and tickets are available online at www.ontheedge2016.com