A NORTH-East theatre has unveiled its summer programme.

Highlights of the season at the Gala Theatre, in Durham, include A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Durham, a new play commissioned to celebrate the return of the Lindisfarne Gospels to the city this summer.

The comedy, by Tyneside writers Ed Waugh and Trevor Wood, will run from July 2 to 6.

July also sees the return of Brass: Durham International Festival, which this year features among its top names Grimethorpe Colliery Band, The Lake Poets, Hackney Colliery Band and the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra.

The Durham Blues Festival, on Sunday, June 23, will feature 12 acts across two stages, including Chantel McGregor, John Lee Hooker Jr and Dr Feelgood.

The Gala Theatre Stage School will present the musical Grease from July 31 to August 10, Stuff and Nonsense Theatre Company will entertain a younger audience with The Enormous Turnip on Sunday, June 9, and there will be comedy from Phill Jupitus and The Lumberjacks.

For full listings or to buy tickets, visit the Gala Theatre box office, call 03000-266-600 or go online to galadurham.co.uk