The varied new programme also includes wrestling and a Shakespeare Schools Festival before the traditional pantomime treats served up by Melton's very own Trevonne Stage School (Dick Whittington) and Polka Dot Productions (Cinderella).

The season kicks off on Sunday with a fun dance production of The Wizard of Oz called Journey To Oz, and then continues with Paul Simon tribute Sounds of Simon on Friday, September 12.

It's one of several new tribute acts to come to Melton, the others being Robbie Williams show Escapology Live (September 27), Marrakesh Express featuring the music of The Byrds and Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young (October 3), Counterfeit Quo (November 7), and Viva Las Vegas featuring Neil Diamond, Frank Sinatra, Tom Jones and Elvis tributes (November 8).
A variety show called One Special Night, a fundraiser for the Special Olympics in Leicester next year, will be staged on October 4, with the Junior Mayor's Variety Gala Performance on November 26 and A Sing Along Christmas Concert for Rainbows on November 27.

Local talent will also be showcased when The Melton Musical Theatre Company presents Calamity Jane (September 16 to 20), Gasleak stages The Ragged Child (October 15 to 18) and Brooksby Melton College's performing arts students put on Return to the Forbidden Planet (November 12 to 15).
The Melton Band present their annual gala concert on November 1 and Melton Flower Club stage their Christmas Spectacular on November 17.

* For the autumn brochure or to book your tickets call the box office on (01664) 851111.