THERE'S a new team in charge at Lancaster's Dukes Theatre and the man casting a keen eye on the new season is artistic director, Ian Hastings.

A seasoned campaigner in the theatrical premier league, Ian arrives in Lancaster following successful stints at Manchester's Royal Exchange and the Bristol Old Vic.

He says it's great to be back "up north" with a dedicated squad packed full of potential and his tactics for the forthcoming season are clear.

"Quite simply I want to see the theatre packed full of people having a fantastic time. I want local people to leave the Dukes having had a great night out - eager to come back for more."

For his first production Ian has chosen Alfred Uhry's Driving Miss Daisy which he says signals the direction he intends to take.

"The play is accessible and speaks to everyone. It's both funny and poignant. If I can put on something that makes people laugh, cry and think then I'm happy. This play will do just that."

Other plays in the pipeline include Alan Ayckbourn's How the Other Half Loves and a Christmas treat for kids The Ugly Duckling. It may not be radical but there could well be some surprises in time.

Explained Ian: "It's square one for me and I need to get a feel for what local people want. I'm a fan of theatre which has a universal appeal but it has to be quality not cheap and cheerful. I want to reassure people that the Dukes is their theatre, not an actor's clique, and we'll be listening very closely to what the public want."

With a main auditorium, a studio and cinema screen plus the breathtaking setting of Williamson Park to play with - the Dukes has plenty to offer and Ian says anyone with any suggestions will be taken seriously.

"There's a new team here and we want it to become a friendly, familiar place. Our film programme is excellent, we'll be inviting touring companies to perform here in the spring and I'm confident that there will be something for everyone. People used to hold their local theatre company close to their hearts, like a football club. I'd love to see those days return here at the Dukes."

For more details about what's on at the Dukes call the box office on 66645.

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