THE final touches are being put to the spring programme at a Teesside theatre.

Emphasis has been placed on community events and creative activities at The Arc, in Stockton.

It is hoped that some big acts will be attracted to the venue following the near sell-out of Peter Pan.

The first act of the New Year will be The Noel Dennis Quartet on Monday, January 10. Other events include The Mo Scott Quartet and Lewis Watson.

At the end of January, there will be farce theatre with El Sombrero de Tres Picos, by Pedro de Alarcn and performed by Thtre Sans Fronitres.

One of February's highlights is the Camra Ale and Arty Beer Festival featuring music by The Animals, Acoustic Strawbs and Jim Diamond. A version of Shakespeare's Measure for Measure will be performed later the same month.

In March, poets Stewart Henderson and Brian Patten will perform. Also appearing are Tim Vine and the Shobana Jeyasingh Dance Company. Events and workshops for the International Women's Day will be on March 11.

The Arc Unsigned night, on the first Thursday of the month, will continue to introduce new bands.

To find out more about various creative or youth classes or to join the theatre's mailing list, call (01642) 525199.