Laycock Street Community Theatre has announced its much anticipated 2017 season at a VIP launch last night, unveiling the national productions and professional theatre on offer to Central Coast audiences in the year ahead.

Council’s Section Manager Arts & Culture, Chris King says the sparkling new season is designed to connect audiences with live theatre in a meaningful and exhilarating way.

“The 2017 season brings together acclaimed touring productions, household names and quality children’s theatre, to engage and provoke audiences of all ages, backgrounds and inclinations,” said Mr King.

“From trailblazing Bell Shakespeare’s uncompromising production of Merchant of Venice, to twisted tales of drama and gothic horror when Dracula swoops the region, contrasted to the beauty and intrigue of Melbourne City Ballet’s interpretation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, to the comedy genius of Shirley Valentine and the glitz and glamour of Prada’s Priscillas — our 2017 season offers something for everyone.

“Laycock is also delighted to applaud Gosford Musical Society’s productions for 2017 which include Broadway favourites Evita and Chicago, and for younger patrons Peter Pan and Bring it On.

“Substantial theatre member discounts are being offered for all season and Gosford Musical Society shows. Theatre membership, theatre tickets and theatre gift vouchers all make the perfect Christmas gift at this time of year.

“If you love theatre, you’ll love Laycock’s 2017 season!”

Mr King said as the renowned home of ­quality music and virtuoso performances, Laycock is proud to be presenting three highly respected singer/songwriters in its 2017 season.

“For those fortunate enough to attend Lior's previous solo performance at Laycock, his return show in early February 2017 will bring an extra dimension to his astounding vocals, with the backing of a string quartet drawn from Sydney’s finest orchestral players,” said Mr King.

“Two of Australia's most loved female artists, songstress Katie Noonan and classical guitarist Karin Schaupp are teaming up once again for Songs of the Latin Skies; an enchanting journey through the great South American songbook of bossa nova, samba, salsa and tango.”

Mr King said Laycock is committed to introducing children to the wonder of live theatre at an early age and in 2017, three professional productions promise to delight and enthral young minds.

“Hold on to your nose!  Mr Stink from the phenomenally successful award-winning book comes to (very smelly) life on stage. We’ll be meeting Mothball, the naughtiest wombat in Australia with the delightful Diary of a Wombat, and settling in for the classic retelling of We’re Going on a Bearhunt, with little people invited to bring their own teddies to Laycock for this intrepid adventure,” he added.

Group and school discounts are available for all children’s shows and teachers’ resources are available on request.

For further information and tickets visit gosford.nsw.gov.au/theatres or call the box office on: 4323 3233, Monday to Friday, 10am to 5pm.

Laycock Street Community Theatre is proudly owned and operated by Central Coast Council and supported by its media partner Star 104.5FM.