CHRISTMAS draws ever nearer, with all its excitements; but that's no reason to put fun on hold this weekend, and here are five great suggestions to drive away all that pre-seasonal boredom.

See Beyond the Barricade at Malvern Theatres on Saturday, December 15, at 7.45 pm

The show is described as "an exciting concert portrayal of the greatest songs in musical theatre, all performed totally live".

Tickets: 01684 892277.

Why not get seasonal with Ledbury Community Brass Band's Christmas Concert on Sunday, December 16, from 7.30pm, at the Market Theatre?

Tickets: 07967 517125.

The Panto Jack and the Beanstalk opens its run at The Artrix in Bromsgrove this weekend, and tickets have been selling like hot cakes. Get one while you can.

Further details: 01527 577330.

Be welcome at The Santa Show 2018: Santa’s Christmas Party, which will take place, for all ages, at the Henry Sandon Hall in Worcester on Sunday December 16, at 11am and 1.30pm.

Tickets: 01905 611 427.

Catch up with Aladdin at the Palace Theatre, Redditch, now enjoying its seasonal panto run.

Tickets: 01527 65203.