THE Arts Centre at Evesham will be buzzing with activity when the autumn season opens in September.

Almost 40 shows are scheduled for the venue and average of about three a week over the 14 weeks of the season.

"There is no excuse for people to sit at home moaning about how awful the telly is with nothing worth looking at," said Laurie Griffith-Jones, of Evesham Arts Association.

"Instead, come along and support the energetic and talented amateurs of our own neck of the woods.

"It is possible to rediscover the pleasures of watching local artists - people you know - acting, singing, dancing and playing all sorts of music for their pleasure and our delight."

That was only a part of what was on offer at Evesham's own lovely theatre, Mr Griffith-Jones added.

The professional input was "thrilling" too, including lectures on a wide variety of topics, a Welsh choir, talent-spotting contests, the Cheltenham Philharmonic Orchestra, Barebones Theatre, the Crescendo Big Band and Floral Art demonstration.

Mr Griffith-Jones said: "All this takes place in one of the loveliest little theatres you're likely to find anywhere - praised and marvelled at by countless users - professional and amateur.

"As it is run entirely by amateurs, the prices of tickets are ridiculously low because the hire charges to users are reduced to reflect this unusual feature."

Mr Griffith-Jones added: "So there we are. A splendidly mixed recipe for all tastes, in great comfort and rock bottom prices, on our doorstep. Aren't we lucky."

The season kicks off with the search for swinging singers on September 9.