Salford-based arts centre, The Lowry, prides itself with such a tasty programme of dance, music, theatre, comedy and talks, that it was almost impossible to draw this selection:

First off, the venue will be hosting the Birmingham Royal Ballet for a performance of 'Sylvia' from March 31st to April 4th, then the company will return for a run of 'Love and Loss' from July 1st to 2nd , and a two-date finale of 'Sir Fred and Mr B.' on July 3rd and 4th.

On June 4th, Australian author, broadcaster and critic Clive James will host his self-titled show, 'Clive James in the Evening', premiered at last year's Edinburgh Comedy Festival, and in which we are warned that he will talk about his latest book and take questions "on absolutely anything except his liaison with Margarita Pracatan".

June will also begin with the latest rendition of Shakespeare's timeless classic "A Midsummer Night's Dream" (June 9th- 13th), and end with the last reincarnation of 'Cabaret', the musical based on the 1966 multi-award winning film starring Lisa Minelli (June 22nd-27th).

Then, it will be the turn of another classic in 'West Side Story' to celebrate its 50th anniversary production on stage (July 21st-25th), followed by the family-friendly musical 'Annie' (July 28th to August 1st). Kiddies will also be given the chance to reunite with their favourite TV programme, Milkshake's characters, Fifi, Peppa, Rupert Bear, Little Princess, Noddy Tessie Bear, Mr. Bump and Little Miss Daredevil, for a little boogie and sing-along, on the last weekend of August (28th-30th).

The autumn will welcome Matthew Bourne's 'Dorian Gray', a revisit of Oscar Wilde's classic novel through movement (October 21st -24th).

And to close another yearly chapter, The Lowry will open its Christmas season with a three-week run of the first stage production of the cult BBC TV comedy series 'Porridge', from December 22nd to January 16th next year.

Solange Moffi