And so begins children's play, The Nightingale, which is coming to the Netz Children's Theatre, West Norwood.

The 45-minute play tells the story of the nightingale whose beautiful song brings him fame and fortune and of the powerful emperor who learns humility and liberty are more important than riches.

Aimed at five to nine-year-olds, The Nightingale is on Saturday, September 2. For more details or to book ring 020 7926 8070.

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Be prepared to be waxed and tickled by Wimbledon theatre's new season which boasts a host of big names, including Ken Dodd (complete with tickling stick), Julian Clary and the outrageous Ruby Wax.

Remember the 80s, when men wore more makeup than women and hairstyles did not verge on the ridiculous but were ridiculous. If you do the you will love One Step Beyond, a sensational 80s musical which gets the season underway on September 14.

This charts the rise and fall of 80s rock star Danny Cork and is a celebration of the decade of hits such as Girls On Film, Relax, Karma Chameleon and more.

Camp comedian Julian Clary brings his inimitable show to the theatre for one night on September 17. The outrageous star will be joined by surprise guests and all proceeds will go to the Artists Benevolent Fund.

Other main house acts this season include Hard Times by Charles Dickens, Ben Elton's Popcorn, operas from Verdi and Puccini, and for children The Adventures Of Rupert Bear and The Singing Kettle.

For more details ring the theatre box office on 020 8540 0362.

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Two of England's greatest actresses Felicity Kendall and Frances de la Tour join forces in the Noel Coward play, Fallen Angels.

While their golfing husbands are away Jane and Julia are drinking champagne, making up and getting high while waiting for their former lover, Maurice, a French charmer with whom they both had an affair before marriage.

Maurice arrives then, unexpectedly, their husbands return, setting the scene for quarrels and quaffing.

Fallen Angels opens at the New Victoria, Woking. For more details or to book ring the box office on 01483 761144.

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Rockin' On Heaven's Door, a tribute to Elvis, Buddy Holly, Roy Orbison and Eddie Cochrane is coming to the Harlequin Theatre on September 14.

Tickets for this recreation of the golden era of rock 'n' roll - with songs including That'll Be The Day and Only The Lonely - are now on sale. For more details contact the box office on 01737 765547.