CHRISTMAS is coming but Blackpool’s Grand Theatre still has plenty in store to brighten up those dark nights before and after the festivities.

For a festive musical spectacular don’t miss Beyond the Barricades at Christmas.

The show beautifully recreates original West End and Broadway songs and features a cast of principal performers from the London production of Les Miserables.

To really get the whole family in the festive spirit, the Grand’s Christmas pantomine is the much loved fairtytale Cinderella, starring Emmerdale’s Danny Miller in his first panto performance.

Music, dance, a fairy godmother, a handsome prince, a glass slipper, two ugly sisters and a star-studded cast includes soap hearthrob Miller, who will be joined on the boards by Steve Royle and Amy Thompson from Channel 5’s Milkshake.

Children’s ballet is always popular and Northern Ballet’s production of Ugly Duckling should provide a sure fire hit with the kids.

If you’re looking for something different, Jim Cartwight’s heartwarming northern fairytale The Rise and Fall of Little Voice sees Coronation Street’s Beverley Callard and Ray Quinn, from X Factor and Dirty Dancing take the lead roles. But possibly, top of the season’s bill is the National Theatre return with the hilarious, award-winning One Man Two Guvnors, with Jodie Prenger returning to her home town and comedian Rufus Hound.

To sooth those winter blues once the excitement of Christmas is over, three spectacular ballets are presented by the Russian State Ballet.

Enjoy the delightful tale of Coppelia, the most famous of fantasy ballets The Nutcracker and the romantic favourite Swan Lake.

Looking further ahead, Sebastian Faulk’s captivating Birdsong, a story of love, courage and sacrifice in the First World War, is presented by The Original Theatre Company — while Shakespeare’s spellbinding tale, A Midsummer Nights Dream, takes centre stage in the spring.

If it’s opera you enjoy, the tale of Hansel and Gretel comes to the Grand for one night only while Opera and Ballet International return with two sensational operas Tosca and Carmen, which tells the tale of the downfall of soldier Don Jose, who is seduced by the fiery and beautiful Carmen.

  • For details, contact the box office on 01253 743339.