Dorset's new Classical Serenata Festival to feature Russell Watson, Katherine Jenkins, Faryl Smith and more

Serenata Festival

Now why should rock and dance-music fans have all the fun of seeing top acts, whilst having the freedom to nip back to their tents for a snooze and schmooze? If you happen to be a classical fan, chances are the word 'festival' conjures up images of debauchery and debacle (and rubbish toilets). You'd be right in some cases but not so in the case of Serenata, a new classical festival due to be held in the Purbeck Hills near the Dorset coast.

Set to run from 26th to 28th August, this event has been designed to bring together top names from the world of classical, encompassing family camping, boutique tents, good food, champagne bars and top-notch facilities. There is the choice of standard or 'hospitality' tickets, including day and weekend admission with camping included.

Thursday (£59 / £301) will feature performances from clarinet virtuoso Emma Johnson, tenor and Amici-member Geoff Sewell, young Britain's Got Talent finalist Faryl Smith and 'classical Fab Four' Blake, Friday (£69 / £301) stars International singing sensation Katherine Jenkins and Young Classical BRIT winner and violinist, Ruth Palmer and Saturday (£69 / £301) brings you the famous tenor Russell Watson and piano-sensation Benjamin Grosvenor. There are many more acts from the Royal Academy of Music to be confirmed soon.

Apart from day tickets, you can also purchase 3-day tickets, allowing you to camp onsite and indulge in the facilities on offer (dependent on ticket of course) - these cost £160.50 (standard)/ £805 (VIP), the most expensive allowing you access to exclusive bars, dinner clubs, camping and other luxuries.

Paul Pledger