A series of shows has been lined up for the end of January as part of High School Musical - The Ice Tour.

Last year, the musical extravaganza was a complete sell-out throughout the UK. Fans are now delighted after the arena announced its return for seven performances from Thursday, January 22 to Sunday, January 25.

The Ice Tour is renowned for its feel-good atmosphere and this year the producers have created special bonus features to get the party started.

Before the arena rocks into action, the show now features behind-the scenes High School Musical 3: Senior Year footage and a get-up-and-dance singalong.

Director Kenny Ortega introduces this exciting new feature via video screen, and families will be treated to an interactive experience as movie and Ice choreographer Chucky Kapow joins Kenny to provide a High School Musical 3: Senior Year dance lesson.

Skaters will then demonstrate the hot new steps on ice to the new movie's anthem song.

As well as the innovative dance lesson, the special bonus experiences also include music videos and interviews with the cast of High School Musical 3.

Ice Tour producer Nicole Feld said: "This is an unprecedented opportunity for High School Musical fans to enjoy a one-of-a-kind, live experience that combines all of the favourite moments from High School Musical and High School Musical 2 with the new music and choreography of High School Musical 3: Senior Year."

Producer Kenneth Feld said: "We are thrilled to introduce this exciting addition to our show and provide audiences with a value that is truly unparalleled in the world of live family entertainment."

Tickets for the shows range in price from £11.50 to £33.50 (subject to booking fee) and are available online at www.sheffieldarena.co.uk, or by calling the ticket hotline on: 0114 256 56 56.

They are also available at the venue.

(31-12-11 SU)

Natasha has collaborated with some great music industry figures during her career including Felix Howard (Beverly Knight, Jamie Cullum), Paul Simm (Sugababes, Virgin Souls, Amy Winehouse, Neneh Cherry) and the inimitable David McAlmont (of acclaimed duo McAlmont and Butler).

Written in memory of a dear friend, the title track Yellow Flowers seemed the obvious choice to name the album.

Natasha's debut album is an impressive testament to the musicianship and the collaboration of some of the industry's most prestigious and highly respected musicians.

Natasha's career to date has been brimming with prestigious gigs and brushes with fame, including being invited to play at the Champions League Final in Moscow back in May. Her recent stint supporting Finley Quaye, was on request of the musician himself.

Last year saw Natasha work as MD on a tour of the musical Hot Flush, starring Rula Lenska, Sheila Ferguson and Marti Webb. As the tour came to a close Natasha was offered the chance to record the album Yellow Flowers with fantastic producer/musician, Paul Simm.

n We have three copies of Natasha Panas' album to give away. For your chance to win a copy, answer the following question: What is the name of Natasha's debut album? Send your answers with your name, address and daytime telephone number to Emma Franklin, 102 Boothferry Road, Goole, DN14 6AE, or email emma.franklin@gooletimes.co.uk by Tuesday, January 6.

This year's winner Tom Chambers will be joined by a host of series celebrities, dance champions and those all important TV judges as Strictly Come Dancing - The Live Tour 2009 returns for six performances from Thursday, January 29 to Sunday, February 1.

The full celebrity line up for this year's tour is Tom Chambers, Rachel Stevens, Jodie Kidd, Cherie Lunghi, who will be joined by past series favourites such as Jill Halfpenny, Julian Clary, Gethin Jones and Kenny Logan.

They will be joined by world-class professional partners, who will perform their intricate dance moves, which are sure to dazzle audiences.

All of the performers will be facing their dance demons in the form of all four TV judges Len Goodman, Arlene Phillips, Craig Revel Horwood and Bruno Tonioli.

Tickets for Strictly Come Dancing The Live Tour at Sheffield Arena are priced £42.50 and £35 and are available from the Arena Box Office, by phone on 0114 256 5656 or online at www.sheffieldarena.co.uk

Greeted by a full house in the Mailed Horse, they began the show.

The first set began with the classic, Ziggy Stardust, sung by Kev in the almost exact baritone voice as the Thin White Duke himself.

Classic songs to a very high standard flowed back to back such as Pretty Woman and Long Train Running.

The two front-men confidently pulled off an excellent two-set gig, frequently interacting with the audience, all the while being pushed by the driving bass lines and the steady but perfectly timed beats of the drummer.

The sound set-up was also impressive for this intimate little venue; the levels were ideal and the electric drum kit sounded like an acoustic kit in the room.

It was a refreshing change to hear The Fabulous Clogiron Brothers pull off their own twists and takes on these original songs. This was definitely not 'just another cover band' and I would advise on keeping eyes and ears open for future venues and dates. Overall a thoroughly enjoyable evening, not just for my beer drinking, but for my ears too! Future dates include The Mac, Goole, on April 24. ME

Castaway told the fairytale of Cinderella in their own distinctive style, with their own choice of songs including 'Baby, It's Cold Outside', 'Prince Charming' and 'A Winter's Tale'.

Cinderella was played by Emma Louise Bradley, and her Prince Charming by Shaun Huscroft. Both did an amazing job, delivering their lines well and singing their solos wonderfully.

This is the first performance for which members of Castaway also designed the sound and lighting for the show. Since September Mixaway (a Castaway weekly workshop led by Chris Miley) have been working on the technical aspects of the show - with brilliant results!

And that's not all; another workshop group, Stageaway, have been working hard on the costumes for all the characters. And they certainly had their work cut out, with costumes needed for fir trees, mice, lizards, fairies and a snow queen, not to mention the ball gowns! They did an amazing job and all the cast members really looked the part.

A special mention must go to the Ugly Sisters (played by Chris Leeson, Mark Sanderson and Matthew Watson) who sang some really great songs and really got into the panto spirit.

The show was a real success and a thoroughly enjoyable piece.

More importantly, it was clear that the whole cast were having a whale of a time up there on stage. What a great show to get us into the festive spirit.

Once again, Castaway have created something fun, something touching and something utterly heart-warming.

If you haven't seen a Castaway show yet then get your diaries out - the group will perform The Sound of Music opening June 24 next year.

If you have seen Castaway before then you will no doubt have the performance dates firmly fixed in your diary and be counting down the days until the next great show.

With Luke taking the role of lead vocals and guitar, he will be accompanied by James Drohan (drums), Dan Hawkins (bass), Matt Condon (keyboards) and Ben Fawson (guitar). Luke and his band mates opened for Outmatch in Germany earlier this year before their UK debut at Wireless in London's Hyde Park. He said: "It was great to play on such a big stage with big lights and big sound."

Luke's songwriting is inspired by great melodies and lyrics and concert-goers can look forward to a set of dynamic and atmospheric bluesy-pop/rock as Luke and his band perform songs from his debut album including the guitar-lick-laden song 'Stupid Kind Of Love', the more bluesy 'Held Love In My Hand', and the big sound of 'Maybe She Is Magic'.

With his album due next year the tour is perfect timing for the Surrey based musician. He added: "I am so lucky to have this opportunity, it will be a fantastic way of playing around the country in great venues and playing my music to people. Status Quo are rock legends and I'm just so grateful that they're having us on their UK tour, I can't wait."

For further information visit www.myspace.com/lukewhiteofficial.

(18-12-97 SU)

There is a long and strong tradition at York of flying Wagon Wheels and thwarted villains, and with this year seeing writer, director and panto dame Berwick Kaler's thirtieth year, it was anticipated to be something special.

However there is always a slight trepidation when it comes to panto, slapstick humour and 'he's behind you' can sometimes all be a little too much, but with Dick Turpin there is just enough.

From start to end the humour was nonstop and the laughter relentless. I was impressed again and again at every scene, not only with the acting and storyline: the sets and costumes were fantastic, appreciated by the stoniest of adults and tiniest of children.

The villain is perfectly villainish, Dick Turpin delightedly dashing and Dame Betty is sure to be a favourite.

With some good old gags, and plenty of surprises, this is a must see. I'm Converted! I'll be a panto-goer from now on.

Dick Turpin runs at York Theatre Royal from December 11 to January 31.

Nicole Johnson

All the regular panto catchphrases are present and correct, alongside predictable jokes and comical ad-libs, making this great entertainment for young and old.

A special mention must be made about the 'Magical growing Beanstalk' and Dame Tilly Trott's costumes, which were fabulous and plentiful!

With Leah Bracknell starring as Fairy Peapod, Aiden J Harvey as Simple Simon, Warren Firman as King Willy the Umpteenth and a top notch cast, this production has some great vocal performances and dance routines, and is certainly worth a visit.

Theatre Box Office and Ticketmaster 0844 847 2322.

CS

On Friday, December 12, Lynne Scratch Perry, dance band Hayashi and comedy group Live Naked Idiots will take to the stage.

The triple crown of live entertainment will begin with Howden's Lynne Scratch Perry, followed by Leeds-based dance band Hayashi and sketch comics Live Naked Idiots.

Hayashi have gained a reputation for playing high-energy dance sets influenced by drum 'n' bass, breakbeat and trip-hop styles.

Drummer/producer Gideon Woods and bassist/producer Ben Coleman started Hayashi as a studio project in 2003.

The group began to take shape following the arrival of other Leeds musicians including Darren Ibbetson a.k.a and The Urbanizer on keyboard, samples, guitar and violin, as well as Ana Robinson, D. Sojourn and Mwen providing the vocals. The technical abilities of drummer Gideon Woods provide the basis for performances of drum beats and rhythms that would more usually be confined to computer-programmed or sequenced drum loops.

Hayashi play it live, with big bass grooves, other-worldly electric melodies, and three-part vocal harmonies.

This gives the band their own, unique sound that, according to Sandman magazine, "will make you dance while breaking your heart as the walls run with sweat".

Hayashi release their material on their own label, Moonrock LS6 Recordings.

The Live Naked Idiots are a four-piece sketch-show comedy group, mixing live sketches with video, audio commentary and music to create a trademark show packed with hilarity and general idiocy.

After making their debut at the Hull Comedy Festival, the Idiots enjoyed rave reviews and used this as the impetus to take their show to Manchester's internationally-renowned Comedy Store. They are also regulars at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Tickets cost £5 each on the night or £4 in advance. They are available from Touchwood Homecare, 2 Market Place, Howden DN14 7BJ. Tickets can also be purchased by calling: 01430 431535 (9am to 5pm Monday to Saturday).

They can also be obtained at DT's Rockshop, 59 Pasture Road, Goole, or by calling: 01405 767282.

Doors open at 7.30pm for an 8pm start. For more information, visit: www.howden-live.com.

Hayashi will perform their unique blend of dance and trip-hop. 04-12-83 SU

The Live Naked Idiots will be delighting the audience with their unique brand of comedy.

(04-12-83 & 84 SU).

The night started with Goole singer/song writer Pete Donnelly taking to the stage performing a short set of his own material.

Next up were Sheffield band The Glavins, whose music could be described as a cross between The LAs and The Coral. Their set had the large Goole crowd dancing and definitely left them wanting more.

They were followed by local duo Luke Bottomley and Jordan Gertch who played a fantastic acoustic set of indie covers plus some of their own material.

The duo had the attention of their audience from start to finish right up until their set climaxed with crowd favourite "Dogs in cars".

Next to the stage were local band The Dirty Secrets who played an energetic set of their own material plus the odd cover. Their version of "seven nation army" worked the crowd into a frenzy and got them ready for the headline act.

Finally it was time for former Seahorses front man Chris Helme to take to the stage.

Chris performed an amazing set made up of songs from his solo album plus a few classics as well. During top ten hits 'Love is the Law' and 'Blinded by the Sun' the crowd nearly took the roof off the venue singing along at the top of their voices.

Goole band The Good Shepards took to the stage afterwards to keep the party going till late into the night.

The Goods Office would like to thank everyone who turned out on the night and a big thanks to The Dirty Secrets who helped keep the night alive.

The Sheffield-born artist originally found fame with Ace, and their No. 1 hit 'How Long' , before going on to establish his own solo career and work with a host of chart stars.

His world-wide fame was boosted when he became vocalist and keyboard player with Genesis guitarist Mike Rutherford in Mike And The Mechanics. Their 'Living Years' album and single were international hits.

Paul Carrack has guested on over 60 albums, and has wrote hits for The Eagles, Diana Ross, Tom Jones, Michael McDonald and Jools Holland.

Among others he has worked with Frankie Miller, Roxy Music, The Smiths, Simply Red, Eric Clapton, Elton John, Ringo Starr and Roger Waters, including singing 'Hey You' at Waters Wall concert in Berlin.

A consummate live performer, this latest tour coincides with the release of his 14th solo album on Carrack-UK. The album is followed by the single 'I Don't Want To Hear Any More'.

This new version, which was originally written by Paul for The Eagles' recent number 1 album 'Long Road Out Of Eden', has been newly recorded by Paul for his album and features the band singing backing vocals.

The Eagles are a band Paul has previously worked with, writing 'Love Will Keep Us Alive' for them for their 1994 'Hell Freezes Over' set.

The album also features a duet with Sam Soul Man Moore of Sam and Dave fame.

This is one show that music lovers are advised not to miss so to book contact the box office 01142 789 789 or visit the website www.sheffieldcityhall.co.uk

Tickets are priced at £21.50

Set in Liverpool in the late 1950s and 60s, Blood Brothers has a timeless theme. It is the tale of the Johnstone twins, brothers separated at birth but whose bond can, seemingly, never be broken.

Their mother, played by Marti Webb, is a working class single mum who gives one of the twins away at birth because she simply cannot afford to feed them both - she already has seven other children. She gives him to her wealthy employer - and fate and class are inextricably woven together as the production progresses.

A chance meeting of the twins when they are seven finds the boys becoming friends - despite the opposition of their families - and later blood brothers.

Their friendship during the first part of the show ensures a light-hearted, feel-good atmosphere, which contrasts sharply with the second half, with its tragic, heartbreaking end - just as the narrator has warned throughout the production.

There were five curtain calls for the opening night's production of Blood Brothers - see it if you can, you won't be disappointed. PRB

* Blood Brothers is at the Grand Opera House, York until December 6. Box office 0844 847 2322.

Christmas Cratchits will be presented at The Gate on three successive nights from today (Thursday, December 4).

The shows start at 7.30pm and on each night a different community group will join the thespians on stage to take part in the production.

On the first night, Actaway will get up on stage, followed by Helping Hands on the Wednesday and the Electric Youth Theatre during the Thursday-night show.

The show sees the fictional Cratchit family go back to Scrooge's house in a Victorian time machine and find out what he has left them in his will.

Tickets for the show cost £6 each (£4 concessions). A family ticket costs £15.

The daytime Box Office number is: 01405 763652. The showtime number is: 01405 720219.

Guests can also pay on the door.

Celebrate the great Bowie tunes with 'David Bowee and His Band', from the glam days of the 70s right though to the 80s and 90s.

The band can proudly boast to be the only David Bowie tribute in the world that includes look-a-likes of his band - in addition to David Bowie himself. The Spiders from Mars were famous in their own right and with Chris Story as Mick Ronson on lead guitar along with Pete Johnson as Trevor Bolder on bass and Chris Headspith as Woody Woodmansey on drums along with the rest of the band.

Watch out for the nationally acclaimed Ziggy Stardust set with authentic costume changes and stunning renditions making it as accurate as possible to the real thing.The first set covered by the band will be music from Bowie's 80s and 90s periods, including classics such as Golden Years, Fashion and Lets Dance, with the band in costumes and attire to match.

Following a short break and even more fantastic costume changes to adopt the 'glam' look, the second set takes the audience back to the 70s with the famous Ziggy Stardust set, where the band will perform favourites including Jean Genie, Life on Mars and Changes to name just a few. David Bowee and his band will be performing at the Shire Hall on Saturday, November 29 in aid of the Shire Hall Trust.

The show starts at 8pm with two one hour sets and tickets are priced at £8.

Competition

The Goole Times has teamed up with the band and are offering one lucky winner a pair of tickets for the show.

To enter, answer the following question: Complete the name of this famous David Bowie album - Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from: a) Saturn, b) Mercury, c) Mars.

Send your answers with your name, address and daytime telephone number to Emma Franklin, 102 Boothferry Road, Goole, DN14 6AE or alternatively you can email emma.franklin@gooletimes.co.uk by next Tuesday (November 18).

More than 30 bands and solo artists will be playing in Howden during what will be the biggest musical event the town has ever seen.

On the Saturday, the Welly Sessions at the The Wellington Hotel will feature the talented John McGrory and Paul Liddle from 2pm and, at 3.30pm it will be the turn of JD and The Longfellows. Admission will be £3.

Amongst the Saturday-evening session will be Marc Atkinson, widely-regarded as York's best singer/songwriter. Al Suggit will take to the stage, and The Workshy Profits, and the day completes with 59 Violets playing an acoustic set.

On Sunday, November 23, a host of musical events and performances will start with a percussion workshop for under-16s, starting at 11am.

The Sunday session costs £3 and starts at 2pm with Shirley Higton, a witty singer/ songwriter.

For more details of the Sunday programme, which we will feature next week, see the website www.howden-live.com

* Tickets for the weekend festival are £55 before November 21 (£60 on the door). Tickets are available from Touchwood Homecare, 2 Market Place, Howden, East Yorkshire, DN14 7BJ or by calling: 01430 431535.