Oakengates Theatre unveils new programme

Comedians Gina Yashere, Russell Kane, Jenny Eclair and Joe Pasquale; speakers David Lloyd and Tony Benn and entertainer Julian Clary are among the stars planning performances at a Shropshire arts venue.

Oakengates Theatre @ The Place, in Telford, today unveiled its autumn/winter programme and venue spokeswoman Maria Smallcombe said there would be plenty to look forward to.

There will also be dance, children's entertainment, drama, wrestling, music, parties and performances by psychics and mediums. And there is an opportunity for local musicians to perform to large crowds during a showcase run in conjunction with The Hive, in Shrewsbury, on September 22.

A fundraising evening called Oxjam on October 6, in support of Oxfam, will feature local bands Envy of the State, Hill Valley High, Babytwin, The Yipes, Capture Kendal, Damaged Gods and Broken Again.

Ms Smallcombe said London-born Gina Yashere would appear on September 27, following her inclusion in the Observer's Top 10 Best Female Comedians list.

Triple Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee Russell Kane will return on October 7 while Peter Donegan and the Lonnie Donegan Band will appear on October 16 and U2 tribute band U2 - 2 will play on October 21.

Former King of the Jungle Joe Pasquale will be at the venue on October 22, firebrand leftwinger Tony Benn will appear on October 28 and comics Shappi Khorsandi and Jon Richardson will play on October 30. There will be an Evening with Bumble, aka cricket coach David Lloyd, on November 2; Julian Clary will appear on November 5 and Jenny Eclair on November 20.

The pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, will run from December 9 until January 2.

Tickets for all events are available from www.theplacetelford.com