AN eclectic mix of world-class drama and dance, combined with family favourites and charming community performances are part of the spring season at New Theatre Royal in Portsmouth.

Kicking off the new season is an adaptation of the popular children’s classic, Burglar Bill by Pied Piper Theatre Company (January 14) followed by the hugely popular character comedian, John Shutttleworth (February 4).

Highlights of the theatre’s high-quality productions include the record-breaking West-end production of The Woman in Black (March 27 to April 1), Silver Lining written by New Theatre Royal’s patron Sandi Toksvig (February 15 to 18) and West End and Broadway hit Joseph and the Technicolour Dreamcoat starring Joe McElderry, (February 28 to March 4).

From top drama to stellar stand up, the theatre once again has a selection of household names including Mock The Week’s Andy Parsons (March 24), the critically acclaimed Reginald D Hunter (April 29) and award-winning comedian and presenter of BBC3‘s Live At The Electric, Russell Kane (May 19). Other unmissable events include the theatre’s own Ghost Walks with Professor Frederick, following the performances of The Woman in Black on 30 and 31 March.

Family theatre fans can enjoy a new stage production of Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book by Oddsocks Productions (February 9 and 10), children’s play, Bright Sparks by the theatre’s own creative artists Filskit Theatre (February 25) and the magical musical adventure, Don’t Dribble on the Dragon (April 9).

Leading the line up of dance and musical performances is Motionhouse and their spellbinding performance Scattered (March 14). Vienna Festival Ballet is set to return to the theatre with a rendition of the classical ballet Swan Lake (matinee April 29. Audiences can also enjoy performances from popular soprano, Lesley Garrett (March 15), Cara Dillon (April 8) and Union J (April 15).

The theatre offers a whole host of community events and performances, celebrating local artists and performers. These include Pirates of Penzance by University of Portsmouth, City of Angels by University of Chichester’s touring company and a Choral and Dance extravaganza in aid of Wessex Heartbeat, Dancing with Choirs on March 25.

To book, call 023 92 649 000 or visit newtheatreroyal.com