ONCE Dick Whittington and his cat have departed, it's music all the way at Basingstoke's Anvil Theatre next year.

Apart from a few one-offs like a visit from crude comic Roy "Chubby" Brown and an evening with TV maths whizz Johnny Ball, all kinds of music dominate the new spring programme.

An early treat is a concert promenading the talents of smooth American singer Andy Williams, who has dominated MOR music for over forty years.

Now in his 70s, the man who has knocked up more than 20 Top 40 hits will be crooning at The Anvil on Wednesday, January 24. Among the attractions in February are A Night of Fun With Hiss and Boo - music hall entertainment with Roy Hudd - country rock with The Illegal Eagles, folk rock from Fairport Conven-tion and a concert by The VIP's of Jazz.

Classical music fans can enjoy concerts by Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, The London Mozart Players and the Russian Symphony Orchestra.

A highlight for rock fans is a solo show with Ray Davies who'll be perform Kinks classics and some new songs.

This is a packed season which would put a lot of better-known venues to shame. For more information ring 01256 844244.