AFTER the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping, wrapping presents and writing cards -- there is nothing more relaxing than a visit to the theatre to see a ballet.

This New Year let the Russian National Ballet company take you on a dreamy trip of self-indulgence as they take to the stage of the Preston Guild Hall to perform two stunning ballets with a musical accompaniment from the Russian National Ballet Orchestra.

Founded by Sergei Radchenko, former star of the Bolshoi Ballet, the remarkable talent of Russia's brightest and most gifted young dancers shines through in these enchanting productions, accompanied by the Russian National Orchestra conducted by Vladimir Moiseyev.

On January 4 and 5, the all-Russian cast will perform Tchaikovsky's romantic fairy tale Sleeping Beauty at the Guild Hall.

This magnificent ballet is one of Tchaikovsky's most sublime scores, a classic fairytale that exquisitely paints the story of the beautiful Princess Aurora and her courageous Prince in a tale of love, innocence, mystery and magic.

Then on Sunday January 6, the the acclaimed Russian National Ballet and orchestra will be back on stage at the Guild Hall to perform another Tchaikovsky masterpiece The Nutcracker.

The composer's masterly score exquisitely paints the picture of a magical Christmas Eve, a fantasy world where toys come alive and do battle with mice and a Nutcracker is transformed into a handsome Prince.

So lap up a little culture in 2002 and make a date to see the performances of the Russian National Ballet at the Guild Hall, Preston.

Tickets are £22, £24 and £26 on 258858.