"AN ABSOLUTE must for the right start to Yuletide" - featuring mince pies and mulled wine - is on offer at Kidderminster's Rose Theatre next week.

Following in the footsteps of the Christmas family spectacular The Murder of Maria Marten, which ends on Saturday, The Christmas Entertainment will have a Victorian theme courtesy of resident group The Nonentities.

They will be taking a look at Christmas past - "with readings with a 19th century flavour and plenty of wholesome fireside Victorian spirit", according to Rose spokeswoman Pat Taft.

She added: "Can Charles Dickens be far away? Catching the traditional sentimental side of the festive season seems just what is required to complete The Nonentities' examination of 19th century culture and put a smile on Kidderminster's face just before the Christmas break."

Audience members at the production, which runs from Wednesday until Friday, December 21, are entitled to a mince pie and mulled wine to wash down the festive evening of carols, literature, songs and good humour.