CHESTER Performs, the producing company behind Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre, has announced the popular live art event Up The Wall will this year take place in the grounds of the city’s historic castle.

Taking place over two evenings on October 21-22 from 6.30-9pm, the free event will be set against the mysterious backdrop of Chester’s most secret location.

The castle, owned by English Heritage, has not been open for a major event such as this for decades.

Michael Constantine of English Heritage said: “We’re delighted that Chester Performs has chosen to present Up The Wall at the castle this year.

“It’s a very interesting and unusual site and we are particularly intrigued to see how the artists taking part will respond to the space.”

Originally built in 1070 by the first Earl of Chester, the castle has a rich and varied history.

The current castle complex consists of a number of features each relating to the site’s different uses throughout the centuries.

Audiences will be able to enter right into the castle grounds where they can engage in artistic responses to spaces such the imposing Agricola tower, the Flag tower and the Guardroom and cells.

Having established itself as a significant North West art event, last year’s Up The Wall saw more than 30 artists excite and delight in excess of 4,500 visitors in and around the city’s Roman Gardens.

Now in its fifth year, the 2011 line-up will include a diverse mix of local and international artists and artistic companies who have all responded to a creative brief based around the themes of borders and identity.

Chester Performs’ programme manager Amber Knipe said: “We are really excited about this year’s event.

“Interest from artists wishing to take part has been very high and we believe that we can curate an exceptional show which reflects this unusual historical site.”

Due to the nature of the venue, it is expected that demand will be very high this year and so Chester Performs has introduced a new time-slot system.

To beat the crowds, visitors must first book their entry time online at www.chesterperforms.com.