A WORD IN EDGEWAYS “Unzip a whole world of wild, wonderful stories” told by storytellers from India, the West Indies, USA, Germany and Britain during this international festival at Milton Keynes museum’s Victorian Stacey Hill Farm. An evening feast of wicked stories, samba music, food and fine ales kicks off the proceedings (admission: Pounds 7.50, Pounds 5 concessions). On festival day (July 12, 11am-7pm), admission is Pounds 12 family, Pounds 5 adults, Pounds 2.50 childrenconcessions. Details: 01908 227701; e-mail: Wordfest@aol. com JULY AND AUGUST YOUNG AT ART In this new initiative, budding artists aged 11 to 18 from London secondary schools can attend summer schools and Saturday courses at the London Institute’s five art colleges, choosing from textiles, product design, art history, theatre design and life drawing. Details: Bridget Baldwin, 0171 514 6237; website: http:young-at-art.linst.ac.uk JULY 26 MOZART’S FIRST OPERA The Classical Opera Company is hosting a study day on ‘Apollo et Hyacinthus’ in the Concert Hall at the Royal College of Music, London SW7, prior to its debut performance. Aimed at everyone from newcomers to seasoned opera buffs, the course will also explore Mozart’s childhood and the nature of child prodigy (he wrote the opera when he was 11). Fee: Pounds 8Pounds 5 with opera ticket; students free. Box office: 0171 589 8212.

1998 BEST-DRESSED NEW CLASS When term begins in September, Year 1 teachers are invited to send a photograph and negative of their new class capturing “the excitement and enthusiasm of children during their first days at school, combined with the sense of togetherness and pride experienced through wearing their new school uniforms”. Sponsors School Trends and Ariel are offering two Compaq Presario 240 systems and 18 regional classes will get personalised school-wear. Details: Barbara Speak, 0114 251 2514.