This year's event, which was renamed in 2015 after starting in 2012 as the East Belfast Arts Festival, will take place over 11 days.

Several well-known performers have visited the festival stage in the past, such as Anthony Toner, who debuted his album there, and Van Morrison, who was the festival's headliner in 2015.

There have also been performances by Irish jazz vocalist Mary Coughlan and the West Ocean String Quartet, who are well-known for having their music broadcast on the International Space Station.

According to Rachel, who spoke with some of the previous year's guests, the festival "hadn't really" catered to those who use BSL for communication in the past. She found the comments to be "incredibly helpful" in ensuring that everyone could attend this year's festival.

This year's events include Walking the Maritime Mile and Beyond, a BSL-integrated walking tour that provides insights into Belfast's maritime heritage.


Additionally, Miss Dora Belle, a drag performer and BSL translator, will translate acts by drag performers at the Dragtastic Cabaret.

The Strand Arts Centre, which has moved to Connswater Shopping Centre after the original historic building's £4.09 million refurbishment, is the venue for The Picture House live play, which tells stories of classic cinema. Meanwhile, the EastSide Visitor Centre Gallery will function as a central hub for a variety of art exhibitions and workshops.

Live performances and circus acts are also held in sports and leisure sites like Malone Rugby Club and Cregagh Sports Club.