Diary dates galore for the Grove’s new season of fun entertainment

The programme is bursting at the seams with stunning shows, live screenings, awesome opera and ballet, rib-tickling comedy and musical treats galore for golden oldies.

So prepare to bookmark your diary . . .

Billy Elliott: The Musical marks the first of the live screenings in September and continues with I Due Foscari from the Royal Opera House.

Another first for the Grove is the introduction of the 2015 drama season – and the novel season ticket discount, which enables you to get money off, depending on the number of show you book in advance.

And to whet your appetite, two thrillers – The Ghost Train and Stone Cold Murder – are already lined up for next year, alongside Alan Ayckbourn’s Table Manners which will have you laughing out loud.

Beat the winter blues with more chuckles – from QI’s resident dunderhead Alan Davies to Cornish comedy legend Jethro, Iranian Omid Djalili and Jim Davidson, this season is sure to tickle your comedy taste buds.

Check out one of the regular Barnstormers comedy nights as well as Live at the Grove, which features a side-splitting selection of funsters.

Or try something different with an amusing play like Ha Ha Hood or Stones in his Pockets.

There’s also a veritable blast from the past – a raft of musicians and tribute acts like Think Floyd, Showaddywaddy, Jackson Live and Songbird: The Music of Eva Cassidy. Not forgetting Toploader and Vampires Rock, The Billy Joel Songbook and Viva La Drag.

Step back in time with the First World War Centenary Season comprising cream teas, films and shows.

Other highlights include Des O’Connor and Richard Digance in September plus The Circus of Horrors – the act that stormed the finals of Britain’s Got Talent.

And topping the year, this year’s panto extravaganza, Robin Hood.

> Pick up a brochure from the theatre or visit www.grovetheatre.co.uk