WHEN Malvern Theatres re-opened seven years ago after its extensive refurbishment, Cherish the Ladies was the very first act to perform in the newly renovated Festival Theatre.

They are welcomed back again in Malvern this autumn performing at the theatre for one night only on Saturday, November 5.

Named after a time-honoured Irish traditional jig, Cherish the Ladies has become renowned as one of the most engaging ensembles ever to hit the Irish music scene.

Originally formed as a one-off concept, from an idea by the veteran Irish musician Mick Moloney, Cherish has grown into an Irish traditional music sensation, literally the most successful and sought-after Irish-American group in Celtic history.

So much so that the band recently entertained President Bush and his guests at the White House on St Patrick's Day.

Though the girls initially won recognition as the first and only all-woman Irish band, they soon established themselves as musician and performers.

Over the years the group has played at international festivals and concert halls over the world, sharing the stage with entertainers like James Taylor and The Chieftains.

They have won many accolades and were named Entertainment Group of the Year by the Irish Voice Newspaper and received the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall's International Group of the Year Award at Celtic Connections - one of the most prestigious festivals in the world.

Always a highlight of their show is the appearance of Champion Irish step dancers, whose seemingly effortless high steps and kicks always receive a rapturous response from the audience.

Cherish the Ladies are Joannie Madden, the Grammy Award winning whistle and flute player, Mary Coogan (guitar, banjo and mandolin), Mirella Murray (piano accordion), Roisin Dillon (fiddle and tin whistle) and Heidi Talbot (lead vocalist, guitar and bodhran).

Cherish the Ladies perform at the Forum Theatre, Malvern on Saturday, November 5 at 7.30pm. Tickets are £13 and £15. Call the box officeon 01684 892277 or visit www.malvern-theatres.co.uk.