DESPITE a short rain interval the crowds at Billingham International Folklore Festival were treated to performances from around the world.
First on stage were the folk dance ensemble Zore of Serbia who performed two dances before a heavy downpour left dancers from China's Lanzhou Star Dance Ensemble waiting in the wings while the stage was dried off.
The week long festival also sees troupes came from Brazil, Chile, Mexico, the Philippines, USA and Sicily, to take part.
Most of the concerts and events will be held at the Festival Arena, which this year will be right in the middle of Billingham town centre, with other events being held in Middlesbrough Town Hall Crypt, Middlesbrough Theatre and Billingham Forum.
To book tickets, log onto billinghamfestival.co.uk/store or call 01642-553220.
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