THE WOMAN IN BLACK, Vienna Festival Ballet and More Set for New Theatre Royal in 2017

New Theatre Royal in Portsmouth has announced the launch of its new Spring 2017 season; an eclectic mix of world-class drama and dance, combined with family favourites and charming community performances.

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

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

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

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

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

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 on (9-11 March), City of Angels by University of Chichester's touring company (21 March), and a Choral and Dance extravaganza in aid of Wessex Heartbeat, Dancing with Choirs (25 March).

To book any shows from upcoming season, request a brochure or for more information, call the box office on: 023 92 649 000 or visit www.newtheatreroyal.com.

Established as a theatre in 1856, New Theatre Royal has enjoyed 160 years as a cultural landmark in the heart of Portsmouth. The theatre re-opened in October 2015 after undergoing a £4.5m refurbishment project to restore the historic building back to its former glory and bring it into the 21st century. The theatre delivers an eclectic programme of diverse acts and events including theatrical classics, comedy shows and musical performances - as well as facilitating and inspiring creative talent in the local community.