WITH Christmas over for another year and 2005 just hours away, it's time for theatre audiences to look forward to an exciting programme of drama, dance, musicals, opera and comedy.

And Malvern Theatres has a jam-packed spring season offering fun and enjoyment for the whole family.

In January, Nicholas Lyndhurst will star in The Dresser - one of the most acclaimed dramas of modern time - and Susan Hampshire takes the leading role in Alan Bennett's comedy The Lady and the Van.

Van Morrison will be providing the musical highlight of the month while Jim Davidson will be raising a laugh.

February is a packed month with top drama in the form of Lord of the Flies and comedy Party Piece which will star George Cole and Matthew Cottle.

Dance lovers are also in for a treat as Malvern will also play host to the sensational Shobana Jeyasingh Dance Company and Alma Flamenco.

British film director Michael Winner will be talking about his life and children will be able to enjoy Burglar Bill.

For music lovers there is a chance to see smash hit musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, an appearance by Jack Jones, Celtic vocal group Anuna and A Tribute to James Last will feature big band tunes of yesterday.

March is also a big month for music at Malvern with performances by Barbara Dickson, Petula Clark, Killer Queen, Beyond the Barricade and classical guitarist John Williams.

The visually stunning Henri Oguike Dance Company and The Russian State Ballet of Siberia performing Swan Lake and Sleeping Beauty will be wowing audiences with their moves, while Fishes Wishes is guaranteed to put a smile on children's faces.

Drama comes in the form of Lord Arthur Savile's Crime starring Russ Abbot and Astronaut performed by Theatre O.

Harold Pinter's The Birthday Party starring Eileen Atkins and Henry Goodman kicks off the drama in April, followed by William Shakespeare's A Winter's Tale and At Swim, Two Boys - inspired by Jamie O'Neill's award-winning novel.

The Cotton Club Revue and The Dubliners will be music to your ears, while Rabbi Lionel Blue will be telling a selection of stories and anecdotes to appeal to everyone.

Polly Puts the Kettle On will delight younger audiences and the English Touring Opera will provide entertainment in the form of Mozart's Cosi fan Tutte and Donizetti's Mary Queen of Scots - both sung in English.

Freddie Starr will be drawing in the crowds in May as will Fame the musical with its breathtaking dance routines and unforgettable songs.

Patsy Palmer stars in Richard Harris' hilarious award-winning comedy Stepping Out and Talking to Terrorists will offer a fascinating and haunting insight into the world of terrorism.

And rounding up the season in style in June will be Ken Dodd.

For more information on dates, times and prices contact Malvern Theatres on 01684 892277 or visit www.malvern-theatres.co.uk