Boxstock 2011, the UK Cigar Box Guitar Festival, returns to The Public on Saturday 1 October, providing a unique opportunity for guitar and music lovers to learn about the fascinating world of Cigar Box Guitars.

The day long celebration of the inventive and primitive musical instrument brought to you by the Home Grown Music Collective, includes an opportunity for guitar aficionados to make and play a Cigar Box Guitar, as well as featuring a number of live performances from the most notable players in the UK, Europe and America.

Whether you are a total novice or expert player, the fun-filled day devoted to the dynamic musical instrument is guaranteed to inspire enthusiasts with a host of workshops. Visitors to the arts centre will be able to browse instruments on sale, take part in an interactive music and video experience, and take part in informal and entertaining open mic sessions.

In the evening, 8.30pm - 11pm, a number of finest Cigar Box musicians take centre stage. Headlining the 2011 festival is USA's Ben Prestage, who recently toured with UK blues sensation Ian Seigal. Ben will be joined by Britain’s answer to Seasick Steve - the powerful one man band Hollowbelly - who'll be performing Thrash Punk Northern Blues, and France’s Tinqui8.

Featuring instruments made from ‘found objects’ such as cigar boxes and oil cans, a stick of wood and a few strings, the UK, Europe and America’s foremost performers will play their own individual brand of music, from punk to experimental electronic, via blues, country, folk, jazz and all points between.

Tickets for the event are £25, which includes free access to the evening gig. Tickets for the evening gig alone are £10. The tickets are available from The Public box office on 0121 533 7161.

All day event: 10am - 4pm
Evening performance: 8.30pm - 11pm