The Mechanics autumn season of events has been released and this time it features some returning favourites, big names and a wealth of exciting talent.

Featuring a great selection of music, kicking off in September with Aynsley Lister; an incredible guitarist whose brand of blues-based rock is filled with heart and soul, there’s also fantastic, danceable, swing – style rhythm and blues from Ricky Cool and the In Crowd, one of Britain’s most cherished singers, Glenn Tilbrook – the voice and face of Squeeze, and, celebrating the most wonderful time of the year once more, The Osmond’s with The Andy William’s Christmas Extravaganza. Making their first appearance will the critically acclaimed Fordante, a crossover classical ensemble fusing the sounds of spectacular film music with sweeping Celtic melodies and mysterious Venetian harmonies.

Some of the country’s finest tributes also feature in the line-up; Barry Steele performs The Roy Orbison Story, a celebration of the man and his music and there will also be a powerhouse performance from Jive Talkin as they perform a timeless repertoire of Bee Gees classic hits. A celebration of Buddy Holly’s original Winter Dance Party Tour in 1959 will include the music of Ritchie Valens and the Big Bopper, proving that the music lives on and is as vibrant and relevant as ever. This autumn will also see the return of two massive, internationally acclaimed tribute acts; Rumours of Fleetwood Mac, the world’s premier Fleetwood Mac experience and Talon, who faithfully recreate the music of the Eagles with honesty, respect and reverence, all of these shows are expected to be very popular so book early to avoid disappointment.

The ever popular Burnley Light Opera present their annual production which this time is Irving Belin’s White Christmas, a timeless tale of cheer and goodwill, full of classic songs, glorious dancing and lots of snow! A further injection of seasonal delight will follow with the return of Vienna Festival Ballet and their interpretation of Snow White.

For children there will be a performance of Julia Donaldson’s classic, Stick Man, and festive fun with Santa Saves Christmas, a wonderful afternoon for the whole family.

The upcoming theatrical programme is rich and varied; from a dramatic retelling of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein where spoken text, music, sound and visuals are used to create a powerful and deep performance to multi-award- winning performer and storyteller Danyah Miller vividly bringing to life an enchanting tale by Michael Morpurgo, ‘Why the Whales Came’. There will also be an emotive dramatisation of a real life story, telling how a father tackles communication with his autistic son in Living with Luke. Burnley Literary Festival will also be presenting events at the mechanics including a poetry workshop with Burnley poet, Clare Shaw and an evening with bestselling crime fiction author, Neil White.

Variety is BIG on the bill with magic, vampires and cabaret. The beautiful and fabulous Ladyboys of Bangkok will be returning with their show with fantastic comedy numbers and fully choreographed large scale dance routines, amongst many more surprises during the show. On Halloween weekend the Vampires Rock Ghost Train will be making a stop in Burnley, amidst mischief and mayhem, this hilariously funny show lives up to its rocking reputation.

Now a firm favourite on the Mechanics programme, fusing great entertainment and the on-site Simply Classic Bistro, the comedy dinner show returns once more with The Sitcom Experience, a parody of all the best bits from Fawlty Towers, Father Ted, Black Adder and Only Fools and Horses all performed around you as you enjoy a 4 course dinner. There will also be a debut from the very talented Pete Firman, star of BBC1’s The Magicians and recognised as the UK’s leading comedian/magician.

For further information on all these shows and plenty more check out the Mechanics website at www.burnleymechanics.co.uk or give the box office a call on 01282 664400.