TICKETS are now on sale for the new autumn/winter season at Richmond’s Georgian Theatre Royal.

Packed with an array of shows to suit all tastes and interests, these range from cutting-edge drama and top comedy acts to exciting and varied musical events.

The season starts with a stylish production of Jane Austen’s Persuasion on September 9 from the highly-acclaimed Dot Productions. Bringing all the quick wit and sharp observation of Jane Austen’s final novel to the stage, this bold new adaptation is not to be missed.

More drama follows with the legendary John Godber’s Do I Love You? (September 27 to 29), a hilarious comedy that introduces Northern Soul to a new generation. There is also a welcome return from the popular Mikron Theatre Company with A Force to be Reckoned With (October 13) – an arresting tale of law and order that investigates pioneering women in the police.

Reiver: Tales from the Borders on October 26 tells the gruesome stories of the lawless families that terrorised the Anglo-Scottish borders for over 400 years; and Sinatra: Raw on October 30 is set in 1971, the moment when Frank Sinatra prepares for his last pre-retirement show.

Music lovers are set for a varied programme of performances with everything from rock and roll to country. Fresh from Glastonbury is award-winning singer-songwriter Hayley McKay (Ocotber 12) who has performed all over the world.

Bein’ Adams on October 19 celebrates the incredible career of Bryan Adams; and Buddy Holly & the Cricketers (October 27) make a welcome return to the Georgian stage with a show that has rock and rolled audiences across the globe for over three decades. Popular local group Musicality reaches across the pond on September 30 for an evening of fabulous American tunes.

The Georgian Theatre has an established reputation for stand-up comedy and the new season sees a new show from Edinburgh Comedy Awards’ Best Newcomer nominee Josh Jones on October 3. Charlie Baker takes up the comedy mic on October 20 and a totally bonkers Shakespeare play will be created by Shakeitup at The Improvised Shakespeare Show on October 6.

Fly Me! on September 19 tells the true story of the daredevil 18th century actress Letitia Sage who set out to become the first Englishwoman to fly a hot air balloon in 1785; and former chief executive officer of the British Red Cross Sir Nick Young (September 23) speaks about his part in the humanitarian response to some of the 21st century’s most dramatic and dangerous events.

A key part of the Theatre’s rich and varied repertoire is from the contributions from talented local community groups. The Barnard Castle-based Castle Players are performing the Pulitzer Prize-winning play Our Town on November 3 and 4. This is followed by the comedy classic Whisky Galore presented by Richmond Amateur Dramatic Society (November 9 to 11) and Richmond Operatic Society’s production of new musical The Hunchback of Notre Dame from November 15 to 18, which is based on the Victor Hugo novel and songs from the Disney film.

The Georgian Theatre’s pantomime rounds off the season. Rapunzel enjoys a festive run from December 6 to January 7.

Details of all shows and events are given in the programme brochure available at the Box Office, via the website (www.georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk) or by calling the Box Office on 01748 825252.