CHELMSFORD’S Civic and Cramphorn Theatres have announced their autumn line-up.

To make things easier on the wallet, the successful Pick’n’Mix ticket offer is continuing, offering a discount when you buy tickets for three or more shows from three different categories.

Dinnerladies, the stage version of the hit TV sitcom written by Victoria Wood, will be at the Civic from Monday, October 5, to Wednesday, October 7.

Lining up will be cast members from the original BBC series, Andrew Dunn and Sue Devany, who played Tony and Jane.

There is a double helping of thrillers at the Civic with Strictly Murder from Monday, October 19, to Saturday, October 24, and the classic Charles Dickens’ ghost story, the Signalman, on Friday, November 6, and Saturday, November 7.

Mike Maran returns to the Civic with his stage production of Captain Corelli’s Mandolin on October 13 and the John Godber classic Happy Jack will be at the Civic three days later, on October 16.

Music for everyone includes That’ll Be the Day, offering songs from the 1950s through to the 1970s on October 14, while jazz lovers can enjoy E-mail Special on October 30 and 31.

Jazz musician Jeffery Wilson will be offering a series of four concerts, Jazz X-tra, on October 3 and 25, November 29 and January 16.

Dance comes in the form of Flamenco Flava on October 8 and the Essence of Ireland on October 18. Independent Ballet Wales brings A Midsummer Night’s Dream to the Civic on October 30 and 31.

Of course, the season would not be complete without a dose of humour. Impressionist Alistair McGowan takes to the stage on Saturday, October 17. There will also be An Evening with Pam Ayres, or two actually, on November 23 and 24.

For a half-term treat, Hansel and Gretel offers a musical delight for familes and children aged four and older, while Giraffes Can’t Dance is an uplifting tale of individuality, based on the best-selling children’s book.

Horrible Histories brings both the First and Second World Wars to the stage in a thrilling walk through history, from September 29 to October 3.

Although it may seem too early to think of Christmas just yet, the end of year extravaganza will be the Civic’s pantomime.

This year it will be Jack and the Beanstalk running from December 4 to January 3.

For more information about all the shows, go to the website www.chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres Alternatively, an autumn season brochure can be obtained by calling 01245 606505 or visiting the box office in Fairfield Road, Chelmsford.