There’s something for everyone at the 17th annual Leytonstone Festival, which begins next week. There will be a wide variety of performances during the 11 days, with dance, drama, film, literature, music and poetry on the bill, with many local acts taking part in venues throughout the area.

Chair of Leytonstone Festival Association, Nick Tiratsoo says: “The festival is run by local people for local people.

“We have a shared commitment to promote local talent and we recognise there are many talented people living here.”

The festival kicks off on July 15 with a lunchtime concert in St John’s Church, featuring a programme of opera scenes. Other musical performances will include The Craven Brothers, who will play at the Sheepwalk, Omar Puente and his Cuban Band, and the London Improvisers Orchestra, while the What’s Cookin Third Annual Summer Picnic is an afternoon of country-fried rock’n’roll, featuring acts including King Salami.

If you’re interested in history, you can take in Leyton and Leytonstone Historical Society’s talk on the social and political aspects of the wind-up gramophone, or even enjoy a guided walk round the old Leytonstone Hospital.

Film buffs are catered for too. Screenings will include The Cabinet of Dr Caligari, from 1920, one of the most influential silent films of all time. There is also Joan Littlewood’s 1963 film Sparrows Can’t Sing, which provides an insight into East End life on the cusp of change.

There are plenty of opportunities to take part in something. The Luna Lounge Drum Circle will offer you the chance to drum for fun, whatever your age and ability, or you could try out tap dancing for beginners, or experience a gong bath – just lie back and let the sounds of the gongs wash over you.

Family events include the Leytonstone Muslim Community Centre’s Family Fun Day, and Langthorne Youthfest, which features live entertainment.

Traditions will be kept alive, with Northumberland long sword and rapper dancing provided by the Hawksword dance side, while Morris dancing and bell ringing are also on the bill.

Up on stage, established theatre group Woodhouse Players will perform Oscar Wilde’s An Ideal Husband.

You can also pick up something original at E17 Designers Market, where there will be handmade products on offer including jewellery, fashion, home accessories, art prints and more.

Nick explains why the festival is such a success each year.

“It’s run by a charity which local people can be members of. It’s not like an outside firm is running it. We raise money and make sure it’s spent wisely.”

The Leytonstone Festival runs from Thursday, July 15 until Sunday, July 25. Full programme: www.leytonstonefestival.org.uk