EVESHAM Arts Centre continues to celebrate and support diverse art forms.

The venue’s autumn programme is out and packed with events catering for all ages and tastes.

In the coming months audiences can expect local groups to prove their worth. Evesham Operatic & Dramatic Society (EODS) stage their big annual show in September, Phoenix Theatre Juniors’s perform The Wizard of Oz in October and the newly formed Imaginary Friend Theatre Company present their first ever full scale show in November. Imaginary Friend was formed by friends Dean Bayliss and Russell Hancock with the aim of entertaining through various genres.

Charlie Brown is based on the much-loved Peanuts comic strip but in the run up to that, Imaginary Friend will continue to host their monthly variety show, Fifteen.

“We formed so local acts, who may not have the funds to put on their own show, can perform in front of an audience,” said Bayliss. “People are coming to us now, which is great. There are obviously enough artists out there and people enjoy these variety show-style nights.

“What’s appealing is if you don’t like the first act you only have to wait 15 minutes for the next.”

Next month, EODS perform the musical Back to the 70s, featuring popular songs from that decade. Expect Queen, Abba, Rod Stewart, Elton John, kaftans and platform shoes. Stand-up comics will perform on Friday, September 26, and long established double act Cannon & Ball are at the Arts Centre in November as part of Christian faith initiative Hope 08. Void Physical Theatre stage the dance/drama Room To Breathe on Thursday, November 6, and for music lovers there is offbeat acoustic group Wild Willy Barrett & Sleeping Dogz, a Red Violin Duo concert in aid of MacMillan Cancer Support For more information go to eveshamartscentre.co.uk. Brochures are available from libraries, tourist information centres, cafes and shops across the area. To request a copy e-mail events@eveshamartscentre. co.uk or call 01386 48883.