EACH June, Barnstaple becomes a hub for performing arts as theatre companies flock to the town to take part in the annual theatre festival. Although the main North Devon Festival isn't taking place this year, Fringe TheatreFest is still going ahead. Co-director Bill Buffery invites you to get involved in this year's event.

BARNSTAPLE'S Fringe TheatreFest is back in 2012 even bigger and bolder than before. And more visible than ever – look out this summer for action in the streets.

Now in its sixth year, Fringe TheatreFest has become an established part of a national circuit, attracting companies to Barnstaple on their way to giant Fringes in Edinburgh or North America.

The companies value the warm welcome that Barnstaple audiences give them and the chance to share their work in a relaxed setting before the madness of the mega-festivals. Applications to take part are already pouring in and many of them are proposing shows in the streets and non-traditional venues.

Plays in a bus, in a doctor's waiting-room, dancing in the streets, mass guitars in the Pannier Market – these are just some of the activities to look out for in June.

Fringe TheatreFest is also a very important date in the calendar for local companies. And there is still time to apply to take part. Fringe TheatreFest isn't until Thursday, June 21 (running until Sunday, June 24), but the application process is open now, the deadline being midnight on Friday, January, 27. Go to www.theatrefest.co.uk for details.

Fringe TheatreFest embraces a wide variety of theatre-styles including stand-up comedy, performance poetry, dance, youth theatre, children's theatre and traditional drama. The two most popular shows last year were a "mentalist" and a Japanese dance-theatre artist. So whatever your bag, check-out the details on the website and see if it's for you.

On Sunday, January 29 the draw takes place to find out who will be performing. All the applications are put in a hat and the first 27 companies pulled out make up the programme for Fringe TheatreFest. And you are invited to the draw! It is a public event, open to all, at the Queen's Theatre, Barnstaple. Doors open at 7pm, there will be a bar and entertainment. The draw itself will take place at 7.30pm. This is your chance to get a first look at this year's programme and to meet everyone involved.

Fringe TheatreFest relies on a cheerful and dedicated team of volunteers for its smooth running. You might find yourself wanting to be part of the team. Whatever your reason, you will be most welcome.