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Art events in Dorset

Are you looking to find the best arts events in Dorset?

Dorset is a hotbed of creativity and expression and hosts a vibrant programme of productions in theatre, music, comedy, dance and film alongside an exciting mix of exhibitions and visual arts.

Dorset is also proud to promote a well supported network of Art Centres and organisations that promotes cultural development in the county.

Enjoy a live performance

The atmosphere of watching a play or live music in a village hall environment is much more intimate and engaging than in a large theatre and it stimulates a special connection between the performers and the audience that you don’t get elsewhere.

Wherever you are based in Dorset, you’ll have the opportunity to see some amazing productions from professional touring companies.

Be astounded at the exquisite talents of ballet dancers as they pirouette before your eyes or marvel at one-man plays; feel your spirit soar as your venue becomes filled with the sounds of samba and giggle until your sides split at a local comedy night.

Extraordinary festivals

Be surprised, moved, entertained or contemplative, or maybe them all, as you make your way round Dorset as part of the Inside Out Festival.

Taking place every other year, Inside Out Dorset wows the crowds with some of the zaniest events around.

From circus acts in Gillingham, sculpture at Hengistbury Head, a big wild sleepout with the RSPB and an outdoor performance to celebrate the Autumn Equinox, these are extraordinary events in extraordinary places.

Feast your eyes

As well as performance, Dorset has a varied programme of touring visual art exhibitions which circulate to rural galleries and other venues throughout the area.

You can visit contemporary craft shows, thematic exhibitions and displays from both national and regional artists.

Find out more

For a more comprehensive view of all the great arts events going on in Dorset, visit:

Highlightedart events

AUB International Collective 2025 Apr 30

AUB International Collective 2025

AUB Students' Union (AUBSU), in partnership with TheGallery and AUB International, present AUB International Collective: a unique collaboration that embraces artwork created by students with...

Dorset In Colour Apr 30

Dorset In Colour

An exhibition by 4 local artists Colourful vibrant artworks, card, acrylic, clay and felt. Held in the stunning location of Eype. The church is used as a popular art centre and has a stunning stained...

PORTRAIT OF THE ARTIST Apr 30

PORTRAIT OF THE ARTIST

RENOWNED ARTIST PHILIP SUTTON RA EXHIBITION OF 70 YEARS OF SELF PORTRAITS PORTRAIT OF THE ARTIST

Stampede By The Sea Trail Apr 30

Stampede By The Sea Trail

The Stampede By The Sea Trail is a new, free and interactive way to explore the stunning landscapes of west Dorset while supporting the incredible work of Weldmar Hospicecare. Along the...

The Great Tail Trail Apr 30

The Great Tail Trail

Julia's House is making a splash across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole with The Great Tail Trail - a community art adventure that encourages everyone to be a tourist in their own back yard!...

Plan Your Visit

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Read our guest blogs

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Discover Beaminster: A Hidden Gem of Dorset

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Jasmine O’Hare and photographer Jayne Jackson share their new favourite spot in Dorset. Nestled in a beautiful natural valley and surrounded by rolling hills is Beaminster, a charming town...

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Dorset Book Festivals

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Dorset has inspired a wealth of writers throughout history, and many have called it home. It’s only fitting that this county has an abundance of literary festivals throughout the year....

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Autumn & Winter in Dorchester

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This month, our guest blog writer Jasmine from the Arts Development Company shares her favourite place to visit in Dorchester during the Autumn and Winter months. This beautiful, historic market town...

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