THE Subscription Rooms in Stroud has announced a new season line up to get the New Year started. From stomping great dance bands to children's theatre, from the musically brilliant to the hilariously funny, there's something for everyone.

2008 brings a fabulous array of musical talent to Stroud, with no less than three very different orchestras visiting town. Poet, performer and presenter of Radio 3's The Verb, Ian McMillan and his Orchestra promise a spectacular night of Yorkshire words and European music. They will be followed by The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain and, if you haven't heard of them already, you soon will as the Ukes are taking the country by storm with numerous TV appearances and sell out shows. In March, The Gloucestershire Symphony Orchestra make a welcome return, performing Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue.

Families can look forward to a fabulous production of The Elves and the Shoemaker. This well known and well loved tale, made popular by the Ladybird Classic, has been re-heeled using a beautifully crafted set and puppets, sublime music, a kaleidoscope of miniature shoes and a comic mouse.

If it's laughs you're looking for look no futher than Black Hearts Comedy. This Stroud based promoter has been working with the cream of the international comedy circuit for more than ten years and now all of their experience and passion has been distilled into these shows.

The eclectic Hub in the Subs will continue to supply laid back live music, while Thirty Days of Night Records will be introducing emerging local bands. The live music programme also boasts a diverse range of musical talent from across the musical styles including jazz vocalist of the year Clare Teal, The British Blues Quintet, Hayseed Dixie and The Soul Destroyers. Not to mention Juice, All Blacked Up and Mr Gubbins' Bicycle from Stroud Ceilidhs as well as the ever popular Stroud Brass Band Festival and Stroud Music Club.

Launching the new season, Phil Hindson, General Manager of the Subscription Rooms said: "The Subscription Rooms is kicking off the new year in style, with another great selection of shows with something for the everyone. We're delighted to be able to offer such an eclectic line up, and look forward to welcoming audiences old and new to the Sub Rooms in 2008."

For more information about the season of events, pick up a copy of the new brochure from the Stroud Tourist Information Centre or visit the website at www.stroud.gov.uk/subrooms