THERE is a buzz of anticipation about the Octagon Theatre in Yeovil as it prepares to open its doors for the new season next month.

The theatre has been dark over the summer while essential maintenance has taken place to ensure that Yeovil continues to rank as the number one location for exceptional theatre in Somerset.

Much of the work that has gone on this year has been behind the scenes - the lighting backstage has been upgraded, the auditorium roof has been re-covered, a new scene dock has been built to the left-hand side of the stage and the disabled toilet front-of-house has been made larger to comply with DDA requirements.

The theatre's deputy artistic manager, Kate Wigmore, said: "It is clear that patrons have missed visiting their favourite entertainment venue over the last few months, as tickets are selling fast for the jam-packed autumn season, with many popular stars such as Pam Ayres and Jethro having already sold out.

"The wide range of productions on offer means that there is plenty to keep patrons entertained throughout the long dark nights that are just around the corner."

The Octagon Theatre Classical Concert Series opens the season on Wednesday, October 1 with the immensely talented clarinettist, Emma Johnson.

Acoustic music heroes Show Of Hands also return with their new show and special guest star Miranda Skyes. Spirit of the Dance will delight audiences as their explosive performance constantly evolves with new dance pieces and innovative choreography from around the world. Moscow Ballet - La Classique will demonstrate their continued quality of dance and performance in their festive production of The Nutcracker.

This performance follows Moscow Ballet's sell-out production of Swan Lake at the Octagon Theatre back in March.

Yeovil Amateur Operatic Society are back for a week with their new production of The Merry Widow. For those patrons who are disappointed to have missed out on tickets for the sold-out production of Voulez Vous, November brings an all-new party night to Yeovil in the style of The Lady Boys Of Bangkok. This show has been the No.1 sell-out at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival for the last five years and is set to wow Yeovil with a night to remember. Combining the heady spice of Bangkok's exotic nightlife with the glamorous showgirl appeal of Las Vegas, this spectacular and flamboyant show is performed by 16 of the world's most glamorous showgirls, who just happen to be men! Suitable for adults only, this evening promises to be more than just a show - it's a total experience!

This is just a taster of what's in store when the Octagon Theatre re-opens to the general public on Wednesday, October 1, but with tickets selling fast, it is definitely worth booking early to avoid disappointment.

For all the latest news on the Octagon Theatre visit www.octagon-theatre.co.uk, or to receive a free copy of the latest season brochure contact the box office on 01935 422884.