A PANTOMIME favourite is to appear in a different guise at a North theatre.

David Leonard, best known as the villain in the Christmas shows at York's Theatre Royal, heads the cast of Noel Coward's comedy Hay Fever.

He follows long-time pantomime dame Berwick Kaler, who starred in a production of the Northern comedy Hobson's Choice at the theatre earlier this year.

Hay Fever, which opens on Monday and runs until June 11, is part of the Theatre Royal's summer season.

It will be followed by a revival of Mike Leigh's comedy Abigail's Party, from July 8 to 23.

During Royal Ascot week in York, from June 14 to 18, the theatre will welcome Cleo Laine and John Dankworth in concert and Northern Ballet with its production of Dangerous Liaisons, on June 17 and 18.

York Opera returns with a double bill of Cavalleria Rusticana and I Pagliacci, from June 21 to 25.

The Dune Jazz Festival, on July 29 and 30, includes a tribute to Billie Holiday with saxophonist Soweto Kitch performing.

Productions also include York-based author Mike Kenny's new adaptation of the classic Hans Christian Andersen children's story The Little Mermaid, from June 10 to July 2.

Booking is already open for this year's pantomime, The Lad Aladdin, written and starring Berwick Kaler. The show opens on December 8.

Details and tickets are available from the box office on 01904 623568.

Published: ??/??/2004