For arts-lovers in South Africa, the month of July has become synonymous with the National Arts Festival at Grahamstown in the Eastern Cape, which also features a vibrant Fringe festival.

Since its inception in 1974, the festival has helped to shape the whole country's arts and culture. Grahamstown comes alive with performers who present everything from drama, dance, opera, music and cabaret to exhibitions, films, talks and lectures. While the main festival offers the best in local artists and performers, the Fringe focuses on the new and up-and-coming.

There's a Winter School offering additional information on the programmes, including panel discussions, lectures, exhibition tours, poetry and book readings and pre- and post-show talks. Also included is the National Festival of Student Drama, presenting new plays in any language spoken in South Africa.

The festival not only generates artistic excellence and interest, but also has a major economic impact on the area around Grahamstown. Further details about the schedule of events and times can be obtained from the festival website www.nafest.co.za