ONE of north Durham's premier theatres has announced its spring programme of plays and music events.

Consett's Empire theatre will present rising star of the USA country scene, Ashleyjay, who will be supported by Consett's own country stars The Rye Brothers.

The one-off night will be held on Saturday, Febuary 10. Another highlight will be a musical evening by singer-song-writer Joe Brown and The Bruvvers on Friday, March 16.

At Stanley Civic Hall a tribute to one of the North-East's greatest-ever comedians, The Bobby Thompson Story, will be shown on Friday, April 6, and Bizet's Carmen will be presented by the Derwentside Choral Society, on Saturday, April 7.

Call the Consett Empire Theatre on (01207) 218171 for details.