EDWIN GILSON rounds up the must-see events in the month-long arts extravaganza.

HASTINGS has long held a reputation as an artistic haven, with talented creatives settling there after moving from London or Brighton.

There is no shortage of potential inspiration in the area, from its award-winning pier to the natural beauty that surrounds the town. The breadth of Hastings’ arts scene will be manifest over the next month as the third Fringe Festival gets under way. The programme includes more than 70 performances to be held in more than ten locations across Hastings and St Leonards. The event encompasses theatre, spoken word, music, film and more.

Artistic director Heather Alexander, who founded the festival in 2015, says that while Hastings already has a “buzzing visual art and music scene” there is “very little opportunity to try out new writing, especially on a tight or non-existent budget” and the festival fills this gap. Here, we select our top picks.

Died Blonde

The Printworks, tomorrow, 9pm

In an evocative performance, Joan Ellis examines the famous last words of two people – movie star Marilyn Monroe and Ruth Ellis, the last woman to be executed in the UK.

94 Strings

Harp Duo Stables Theatre, Tuesday, 7.30pm

The group play a wide range of music, from Back to The Beach Boys, all on harp. Yes, Prime Minister Stables Theatre, Friday, September 8, 7.30pm Jim Hacker and Sir Humphrey present a version of the hit stage comedy, based on the classic BBC sitcom.

Oh, Carol!

Stables Theatre, Saturday, September 9, 7.30pm

The Ad Hoc Players present this farcical comedy. Martin throws a dinner party to introduce his new girlfriend Carol to his family, but chaos ensues.

Magic, Monsters and Mystery

White Rock Theatre, Saturday, September 16, 3pm

An exciting escapist adventure for children with masks, puppets and props.

Incubate

The Printworks, Wednesday, September 20, 7.30pm

A showcase of new young singers and musicians.

How the Universe Works (The Answer to Everything)

Music Theatre, Friday, September 22, 4pm

A production exploring themes of philosophy, physics, music and art.

Richard III: A One-Woman Show

The Printworks, Saturday, September 30, 6pm

All the world is a stage. What part will you play? This solo performance is interactive – watch out.

For the full programme and tickets visit hastingsfringe.co.uk or facebook.com/Hastingsfringe