The cast of Rian putting on a short free performance to advertise their show this week. Photo: Bill Smith

Passers-by enjoyed an impromptu performance of Irish music and dancing in the sunshine as part of the Norfolk and Norwich Festival.

The musicians and performers from Rian are using Blackfriars’ Hall in Norwich to perfect their show ahead of their performances at Norwich Theatre Royal on Thursday and Friday.

This afternoon they took a break from rehearsals to treat people to a short outdoor performance outside St Andrew’s Hall and give people a snapshot of what is in-store for their audiences at the end of the week.

Rian - which means mark or trace in Irish - is described as a fusion of traditional Irish music and Irish contemporary dance theatre.

It is a collaboration by Fabulous Beast Dance Theatre and Irish rock musician Liam O Maonlai of Hothouse Flowers.

The cast of Rian putting on a short free performance to advertise their show this week. Photo: Bill Smith

Choreographer and founding director of Fabulous Beast, Michael Keegan-Dolan, who has had three Olivier Award nominations, said the team were really enjoying their time in Norwich and looking forward to the shows.

“Norwich is a lovely place, Everyone likes Norwich and we have been to places all over the world,” he said.

Following Rian’s performances in Norwich the production will be heading to Ireland, Paris and New York.

• Rian will be performed at 8pm on Thursday and Friday at Norwich Theatre Royal.

Tickets cost £5.50 to £21 (£5 for under 25s who book in advance).

Book tickets online at www.nnfestival.org.uk, in person at Norwich Theatre Royal, or by calling the festival box office on 01603 766400,