A THEATRE is celebrating its first anniversary after undergoing a £1.6m restoration, with the launch of a season of performances.

Dance, music and drama are all included in the programme at the Georgian Theatre Royal, Richmond.

Theatre spokeswoman Laura Hannaway said: "As Britain's most complete Georgian playhouse, and one of only five Grade I listed theatres, it is truly an exceptional experience to watch a performance in the intimate setting."

Highlights this autumn and winter include, Ancestral Voices, which sees actor Moray Watson bring to life the world of James Lees-Milne, the co-founder of the Georgian group.

Other productions include a chilling story of murder, remorse and retribution told in The Bells, by Leopold Lewis, and Independent Ballet Wales' version of The Sleeping Beauty.

In conjunction with Richmond School, the theatre will also be hosting the first North Yorkshire Schools Drama Festival, in October.

For further details, call the box office on (01748) 825252.

Published: 23/08/2004