Dylan announces tour Down Under

Bob Dylan has marked his birthday by announcing a month-long, 11-date tour of Australia and New Zealand.

The Blowin' in the Wind star, who turned 73 on Saturday, will play a series of relatively small venues during his first tour Down Under for more than 20 years.

"Dylan is stepping away from playing large arenas, and instead draws the fans closer with performances in some of the most iconic theatre venues in the country," said promoters Chugg Entertainment.

"Some might say a deeply personal and welcoming atmosphere such as this is the most appropriate environment in which to share the work of Dylan.

"Fans can anticipate a musical event of depth, grace and significance, delivered by one of the greats."

The tour starts at the Claudelands Arena in Hamilton, New Zealand, on August 9.

Dylan then plays two gigs at Perth's Riverside Theatre on August 13 and 14.

The tour heads to Melbourne's Palais Theatre on August 18 and 19 and Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre on August 25.

Dylan will then play gigs at Canberra's Royal Theatre on August 29, Adelaide Entertainment Centre on August 31 and Sydney State Theatre on September 3 and 4.

The tour ends at Christchurch's CBS Canterbury Arena on September 10.