IPSWICH'S answer to the Edinburgh festival launches tomorrow. Organised by the New Wolsey Theatre, the 2008 Pulse Fringe Festival runs at venues across the town until June 14.

James Marston

IPSWICH'S answer to the Edinburgh festival launches tomorrow.

Organised by the New Wolsey Theatre, the 2008 Pulse Fringe Festival runs at venues across the town until June 14.

For 18 days Pulse offers an around-the-clock mini-season of events, live gigs and performances with 36 shows spanning theatre, dance, music, and live and visual arts in six venues across Ipswich.

Established in 2001, Pulse provides a platform for new and emerging artists and fresh approaches to performance across a variety of disciplines.

Pulse director Steve Freeman said the festival, which includes drama, dance, physical theatre, art, comedy and music, starts with play Beachy Head at the New Wolsey Studio in St George's Street tomorrow night.

He added: “There is a huge amount of anticipation surrounding this year's Pulse. As soon as one Pulse is over we start thinking about the next one and we have been planning the festival since last year.

“A huge amount of research and effort has gone into providing a varied, interesting and quality programme.”

With more than 30 productions and shows using five different venues, festival tickets have been selling quickly with many shows almost sold out. Mr Freeman said listings will be put up at the New Wolsey Studio and theatre to keep the public informed about what is available

He added: “Pulse brings to Ipswich audiences the chance to see and be involved in drama, dance, comedy and music they may not normally be able to enjoy.

“Tickets are from £3 and the key thing about Pulse is that we are bringing new work and a diverse programme to an accessible level.”

With many performances scouted from last year's Edinburgh Festival, Pulse includes cutting edge and experimental performances. Highlights include comedy thriller - Spy, drama - The Mother's Bones, comedy dance performance - The Visible Men, and drama - One Nineteen.

Visit www.pulsefringe.com for this year's performance schedule and for lots more information about Pulse events. Pulse runs from May 29 to June 14. Tickets range from £3 to £7 and can be booked on 01473 295900.

PULSE VENUES

New Wolsey Theatre - Civic Drive

New Wolsey studio - St George's Street

Sir John Mills Theatre - Gatacre Lane

The Steamboat Tavern - New Cut West

Town Hall Galleries - Cornhill

Regent Theatre Circle Lounge - St Helen's Street