The new season brochure for Hereford Courtyard will be available from mid August.

News from the venue includes an enforced non-smoking ban from August 15, a kid's club relaunch and a student advantage relaunch - whereby students in the county get to see shows at bargain prices - so it's well worth registering your details.

The venue's patron, Jo Brand, takes to the stage in a fund-raising evening on October 21, which forms just part of the comedy line-up with fellow comedian Jeff Green appearing on October 3.

The comedy nights will continue fortnightly and this season, the compere will vary.

Singin' in the Rain is the big autumn musical by the Courtyard Community Company, with Nikolai Foster and Mark Collins returning to direct after their success with Oliver! last year.

Based on the MGM movie, this should prove the colourful, big sound production that the venue is well regarded for. Tickets are now available and the show runs for three weeks from August 31 to September 23.

Dick Whittington is the other big draw, which is based on Lyndsay Maples script and will be directed by Nick Collett, who will also appear.

This is the first time the venue has staged the show, which runs from December 1 to January 6.

All the regular favourites return - Bottleneck Theatre Company, Diversions, The Dance Company of Wales, Reform Theatre Company and Anurekha Ghosh, with music from Chumbawamba, Kiki Dee and Julie Felix.

With a wealth of workshop activity, folk music and great films, check out the website at www.courtyard.org.uk, drop into the Edgar Street venue and pick up a copy or call 0870 1122330.