Children will be introduced to the magic of the performing arts when the Imaginate children's theatre festival takes place in Edinburgh once again this year.

Running from May 7th to 14th 2012, the event offers up a series of plays, dance performances, puppet shows, operas and more, with many of the productions providing interactive elements.

Some of the best children's theatre productions from around the world will be featured at the show, including Australian dance experience This (Baby) Life, the touching Swedish fantasy Aston's Stones and the dreamlike French production Traverse.

Other highlights include the heartwarming friendship tale Sunflowers and Sheds, the puppet-oriented Cloud Man, the side-splitting comedy spectacular By the Seat of Your Pants and the sheep parable Kindur, which offers opportunities for audience participation.

The programme includes everything from fairytale re-imaginings to thoughtful dramas, with different shows available for kids of all ages.

Tickets are available online now for £10 each, with a variety of price reductions offered for those booking for multiple family members as a group.

EdinburghandHotel.com recommends a wide selection of cheap hotels in the city that may be suitable for families, including the Sakura Guest House.

Visit http://www.imaginate.org.uk/ for full event details.