Songs from the shows, award-winning barbershop, serious drama, zany comedy, topical ventriloquism, and an entry into the folk scene – it is all there in the new autumn season.

A smart new frontage, rehearsal room and major works at the rear of the theatre have kept the growing volunteer team active over the last four months, and have given the management team the confidence to spread their wings artistically.

Acorn chairman David Jordan said: ”We’ve built a fantastic mix of performing arts events by professionals and local amateurs alike. Over the next four months, our busy schedule shows that when it comes to good theatre, variety really is the spice of life.”

Tomorrow sees the National Barbershop Gold Medal Champions Grand Central Chorus making their first trip to Worksop’s Acorn Theatre, and serious professional drama comes to the stage on Wednesday 17th September with On The Black Hill – an AJTC Theatre Company adaptation of Bruce Chatwin’s award winning tale of the humour, harsh realities and unique struggle of twin brothers with one identity, but two realities.

And a notable new venture is the launch of monthly fixture, Acorn Folk, on Saturday 26th September.

Said Mr Jordan: ”The time is right to give folk fans a comfortable and licensed venue in which to hear top notch artists. We’re booked well into 2009 now, and AcornFolk launches with a solo gig by one of folk’s elder statesmen, Lester Simpson, who sings with top acappella trio Coope Boyes and Simpson, and also co-presents BBC Radio Derby’s weekly FolkWaves programme.”

Acorn Theatre has undergone a huge transformation in recent months, with volunteers working hard.

The theatre’s technical manager Mick Hagen said: ”It’s all down to Terry Pearson, and our dedicated and expanding volunteer team who put really long hours in here. All of us can see the rewards, not just in the way this building and its facilities are developing for the local community, but in the growing audience of all ages, and the appreciation that they express.”

Acorn’s September to December new season brochure is now at its box office on Queen Street, open 12pm-3pm Monday-Friday, and Saturday 10am–12pm. Alternatively, phone 01909 501817 or email info@acorntheatre.net.