Rock musician Wakeman –– who is also known for his appearances on BBC2 show Grumpy Old Men –– comes to the Leeming Street venue to perform his unique style of piano and keyboard playing that has seen him sell out shows across the world.

But it's the annual appearance of funnyman Dodd which is sure to bring the house down with yet another classic evening of laughter and song.

Other highlights include the production of The Naked Truth, starring Lisa Riley –– who shot to fame as the larger-than-life Mandy Dingle in hit ITV soap Emmerdale.

This unmissable play follows five very different women as they try and conquer pole dancing to raise money for a breast cancer charity.

Another familiar face to hit the Palace stage will be Zoe Birkett, who appeared on smash-hit reality TV show Pop Idol and joins a cast of talented West End performers for West End Rocks –– an evening celebrating the greatest rock musicals ever.

'Mad-cap'

And theatregoers looking for a something a bit different can check out The Mikado, which will be Opera della Luna's first ever visit to Mansfield Palace Theatre.

Its production remains faithful to the spirit of Gilbert and Sullivan but its Mikado is set in the zany, flashy world of modern fashion houses. The production promises costumes inspired by Versace and Jean-Paul Gautier and their trademark brand of mad-cap humour.

Music fans are also in for a treat, with soul lovers sure to be impressed to hear record-breaking 70s group The Real Thing appearing for a night to perform their number one hits You to Me are Everything, Can't Get By Without You and Feel the Force.

Music, Music, Music! celebrates 50 Golden Years of Song and features special guest star, Supersonic Syd Little, with original sparkling costumes and full supporting cast.

And acclaimed composer Ethan Lewis-Maltby's majestic score is brought to life by percussion specialists Noise Ensemble. Moments of laughter, daring and breathtaking talent make for an unmissable evening.

The theatre is also hosting a number of acts paying tribute to all the classic bands, with bosses announcing tributes to The Beatles, Bob Marley, the Beach Boys and a number of other artists.

For more information on the Palace's new season pick up a brochure at the Leeming Street theatre or contact the box office on Mansfield 633133.