The organisers of Oakham Festival, which starts in June, are preparing to put on a spectacle for the public.

They have revealed that this year's event will have an American theme running through some of the events.

The Leicester Big Band will play American music and Frank Sinatra songs, while a community choir will be formed especially for the festival and sing music from the musical Guys and Dolls.

Oakham Festival spokesman Michelle Crooks said organisers were relishing the potential of this year's programme.

She said: "We have lot of exciting things planned for the Oakham Festival, which is going to be particularly arty this year."

Oakham Festival 2010 starts on Friday, June 18 and runs until Sunday, July 4.

An "eclectic mixture" of venues, performances and artists will fill the town in a celebration of the arts.

Among those scheduled to perform include The Mayday players, Rutland Concert Band back by popular demand and Rutland Sinfonia.

In addition, there will be a special youth event for those aged 11 to 16, along with many performances from Oakham School.

Michelle added: "We've made a real effort to try and engage with a wide range of age groups."

The Oakham Festival group is hoping to garner additional publicity through its newly-established Facebook page, as well as its own website, which can be found at www.oakhamfestival.co.uk

Festival organisers are also seeking to recruit a volunteer to take on the role of secretary.

It is a position which would allow the person to help with the administration of the festival, while being part of an event which is an established favourite in the town and county's entertainments calendar.

Michelle said: "It's a rewarding opportunity for somebody to be involved in the local community helping organise a popular event.

Anyone interested in getting involved should e-mail contact@oakhamfestival.co.uk for further details.

Oakham Festival is also expected to have an eye-catching boost by the arrival of hippos into the area.

Rutland County Council is promoting the sculptures, which will be used to tie-in with Oakham Festival.