BIRMINGHAM'S Alexander Theatre starts a bumper Christmas line-up with the musical extravaganza Scrooge next week.

Shane Richie, better known as loveable rogue Alfie Moon in Eastenders, pulls a grimace and goes a palid colour to become Charles Dickens' most famous character.

Scrooge tells the story of miserly a 19th century debut collector who is imbued with the festive spirit and a new respect for his fellow man after three spirits show him the error of his ways.

Richie has carved out a career as one of Britain's most popular entertainers and stage actors. He's won the best male actor award at Rose D'or Television Festival awards in 2004.

Scrooge follows previous stage successes for Richie, who most famously played Danny Zuko in two hugely successful productions of Grease and Roddy O'Neil in the West End production of Boogie Nights.

He said: "I am delighted to be taking to the stage again to lead this fantastic production.

"Miserly old Scrooge is one of the great characters of literature and playing this role is a challenge that I relish."

More magic than normal will be packed into this festive feast. Illusionist Paul Kieve, who worked on the magic effects in the Harry Potter films, designed the sets and costumes.

This production is by directed by Bob Tomson and designed by Paul Farnsworth and has gained vast critical acclaim and played to sell-out audiences all over the world.

Scrooge runs from Monday, November 28 to Saturday, December 3.

Tickets cost between £14.50 and £32.50. Call the Ticketmaster hotline on 0870 607 7544 for more information. To organise group bookings call 0800 587 5007.

lThe Alexandra Threatre is packed with festive treats to whet the appetite in December 2005.

Malcolm Boyden leads the way singing local songs in A Brummie Christmas on Sunday, December 4 (7.15pm start).

On December 5 dance and music spectacular Spirit of Christmas will increase the festive goodwill.

Alexander O'Neal will double the Christmas love when he performs on December 6, while Shakin Stevens will bring the house down on December 8.

To book tickets and find out more about these shows call Ticketmaster hotline on 0870 607 7544.