ONE of Britain's most popular dance companies is on tour and coming soon.

Ballet Central is returning to Chipping Norton Theatre on Thursday, May 9, and Friday, May 10, to give audiences another chance to see them in action.

In its 17 years the ballet has become one of the country's top touring dance acts and its young dancers include many stars of the future.

The performance takes in a number of styles, ranging from ballet to contemporary and jazz dance.

This year's programme features romance, charm and humour in Cathy Marston's first original one-act ballet for the company, an adaptation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice to a score composed by Carl Davis.

There is also a new ballet by in-demand choreographer Michael Corder, contemporary works by Sara Matthews and Kerry Nicholls and new ballets by Antonio Castilla. The programme also includes a revival of Fergus Logan's highly successful funky choreography and new and exciting jazz pieces by Ilse Challis.

The dancers are accompanied by musical director and composer Philip Feeney and together they promise a fascinating evening showing off the range and versatility of the young dancers.

Performances at Chipping Norton take place at 8pm and tickets, priced from £4.50, are available on 01608 642350. The ballet is also appearing at Cheltenham's Bacon Theatre on Thursday, June 27.