Library Theatre

Manchester (tel: 0161 236 7110)

Tom's Midnight Garden

A magical story about a young boy called Tom who is furious when he is sent away for the summer to stay with his aunt and uncle in their boring flat until he discovers a wonderful and magical secret and meets a special friend.

Runs until Saturday, January 25 2003, various performance times, £7.50 to £40

Octagon Theatre

Bolton (tel: 520661)

Firebird

A magical and enchanting adventure story based on traditional folklore tales and filled with puppetry, songs and dance about an imprisoned princess, a jealous sister and a friendly wolf. Suitable for children aged 5 and upwards.

Runs from Friday until Saturday, January 18 2003, 7.15pm, Mat 2.15pm, £6.50 to £12

Oldham Coliseum

Fairbottom Street, Oldham (tel: 0161 624 2829)

Aladdin

The magical story of Aladdin and his mother Widow Twankey and their rags-to-riches story with live music, amazing costumes and stunning scenery.

Runs until January 18 2003, Saturday 2.30pm and 7.30pm, Mon 2.30pm, Tue to Thu 10.30am and 2.30pm, Fri 7.30pm adults £11 and conc. £8

Opera House

Quay Street, Manchester (tel: 0161 242 2524)

Oh! What A Night

The smash hit musical returns to with Sheila Ferguson of the 3 Degrees performing I Will Survive, YMCA and Play That Funky Music.

Runs until Saturday, 7.30pm, Fri & Sat 5pm and 8.45pm, £10 to £25

Palace Theatre

Manchester (tel: 0161 242 2524)

Beauty and the Beast

Disney's spectacular and award-winning musical comes to Manchester on its national tour.

Runs until Saturday, February 8, 2003, 7.30pm, Wed, Fri & Sat Mat 2.30pm, £13 to £33.50

Preston Guild Hall & Charter Theatre

Lancaster Road, Preston (tel: 01772 203456)

Cinderella

This year's pantomime with a leading cast including Raine Davison who recently appeared in Emmerdale and is now starring in Crossroads. The show includes all the traditional ingredients for a classic pantomime suitable for all the family.

Runs from Thursday until Sunday, January 5 2003, 2pm and 7pm, £10.50 to £12.50

The Lowry

Aladdin

Magical Christmas entertainment for all the family about Aladdin and his magical lamp.

Runs from Wednesday until Sunday, January 5 2003, Wed 1.30pm, Thu 10am &1.30pm, Fri 10am & 7pm, Sat 2pm & 7pm, £9 to £13

The Met

Market Street, Bury (tel: 0161 761 2216)

Peter Pan

Join Peter Pan, the little boy who won't grow up and fly high above the rooftops to Neverland for a spectacular and exciting Christmas musical.

Runs until Sunday, January 12 2003, 2pm, Fri & Sat 7.30pm, £5 to £8