RESIDENTS in north Durham are being offered the chance to travel back in time to a grand Austrian ballroom.

The Friends of the Lamplight group has organised a coach trip to the Johann Strauss Gala, which takes place in Newcastle City Hall on Thursday, January 13.

The show recreates the glamour and romance of 19th Century Vienna.

The Johann Strauss Orchestra and soprano Ana James will perform some of the composer's most famous works, including the Emperor Waltz, Thunder and Lightning Polka and Die Fledermaus Overture.

The bus leaves the Lamplight Arts Centre in Front Street, Stanley, at 6.30pm and the concert starts at 7.30pm.

Tickets are £22, including transport and are available from the Lamplight box office on (01207) 218899

Published: 18/12/2004