BRACKNELL residents will be gearing up for the festive season and getting into the Christmas spirit with a string of seasonally-themed nights out planned at South Hill Park this December.

The Ringmead theatre is planning a spectacular line-up of entertainment next month to officially launch Christmas in the town.

Kicking off December, the Studio Theatre Company will perform Alan Ayckbourn’s Season’s Greetings from December 4 to 7.

Christmas has arrived in Bunker house along with family and friends. But as the children lurk out of sight it’s the adults who let the side down.

Cheating at snakes and ladders, fighting over comic books and a bungled infidelity underneath the tree. Season’s Greetings offers a seriously entertaining look at the misery and hi-jinks of an average family Christmas.

They’re “better than the original” said the Evening Standard – and if you’re looking for a sparkling singalong night of glam and glitz, then the internationally acclaimed PLATINUM Live ABBA Tribute Show is for you.

Returning to play the Wilde Theatre for two consecutive nights, December 10 and 11, this dazzling tribute to one of the greatest music acts of all time “has to be seen to be believed”.

The stunning musicianship and meticulously crafted performances will appeal to all ages, making for a breathtaking and unforgettable evening of singing and dancing.

And the Apache Kites’ Sixties Christmas Party in The Cellar Bar on December 11 will see rousing covers of 60s classics all night (pictured). The energetic and highly popular Bracknell-based trio includes ex-members of Sham 69, Moonboot Oz and The Magic Mushroom Band, who have brought their respective influences together to combine their unique ‘paisley punk’ sound with an engaging stage presence.

BRIT Award-winning singers BLAKE will perform their Christmas Classics Show for one night only on December 18.

With atmospheric lighting and a sprinkling of their famous ‘off-piste’ banter, Stephen, Humphrey and Ollie will be preparing to take theatre-goers on a sparkling tour of the season of goodwill through the years.

It would not be Christmas without a panto - and this year’s offering is Aladdin, offering a thrilling magic carpet ride for families from November 29 to January 4.

Brad Clapson returns for a fourth season, this time playing Aladdin’s mother, Widow Twankey. Michael Ayiotis takes on the wicked and ever-scheming sorcerer, Abanazar, while Faye Ellen plays Princess Jasmine, Aladdin’s love interest. Aladdin himself is portrayed by Jake Williams, while Marnie Yule shines as The Genie.

For tickets and more information about all of December’s shows at South Hill Park, go online to www.southhillpark.org.uk or call 01344 484 123.