Deep Purple/Led Zeppelin tribute plus return of Peacehaven panto

Spokeswoman Aimee Pugh said: “This all-encompassing show features over 30 classic songs – that’s a Whole Lotta songs! Audiences can expect explosive guitar riffs, power-ballad grandeur and some unforgettable music, played live – a full two-and-a-half-hour long show with costume changes and some of the biggest songs, plus fan favourites including Smoke on the Water, Highway Star and Speed King from Deep Purple’s back catalogue and Led Zeppelin monster hits such as Immigrant Song, Whole Lotta Love and of course Stairway to Heaven and lesser-played treats.

“The band featured in the BBC TV documentary The Joy of the Guitar Riff (alongside Brian May, Tony Iommi and Dave Grohl). Purple Zeppelin are accomplished musicians in their own right whilst also being huge fans of the groups they so accurately portray. Many years have passed since the last UK gigs from the classic line-ups of both bands. Whether you were lucky enough to have seen the originals live or not, Purple Zeppelin promise to take you back to the magic, the excitement and the sheer raw energy generated by those incredible musicians.”

Tickets £25; book at www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk or call 01323 412000.

Also coming up, Cinderella will go to the ball at last, say the Peacehaven Players as they get ready for panto.

Georgie Bancroft, Peacehaven Players chairman, said: “It is such a joy to be bringing this magical version of Cinderella to Peacehaven at last. It’s going to brighten all our lives at what is a turning out to be a worrying time.”

Spokesman Tony Garwood added: “After the disappointment of cancellation last Christmas, the Peacehaven Panto is firmly back this year.

"Last year, in the aftermath of Covid, the Players were forced to cancel their planned panto due to a shortage of technicians to run sound and lighting. This year audiences will be able to see and hear the performances. Cast and crew are excited to finally be bringing this script to life.

“Cinderella, the world’s favourite pantomime, is given a magical new lease of life in this version by David Maun. The Peacehaven Players present their 21st family panto at The Meridian Centre in Peacehaven this Christmas.”

The dates are Friday, December 2 at 7pm, Saturday, December 3 at 2.30pm and 7pm, Friday, December 9 at 7pm and Saturday, December 10 at 6pm.

“This timeless tale of Cinderella who goes from rags to riches will delight audiences of all ages. With mirth, magic and mayhem it has all the right ingredients for a joyful start to Christmas.

“The story follows the traditional tale. The ugly stepsisters mistreat Cinderella just to be nasty. The faithful Buttons is in love with her. Cinderella’s kindness to the old woman who turns out to be her Fairy Godmother. A magical transformation. A gr and ball and a handsome Prince looking for love. A dramatic exit as the clock strikes midnight. The hunt for the slipper’s owner and a glorious happy ending. Interwoven throughout are the comedy antics of Sergeant Letsby-Avenue and his inept son PC99 while they search for the infamous villain Burglar Bill. Along the way there are heaps of songs and plenty of dancing to go with the jokes.”

Tickets on www.peacehavenplayers.co.uk; adult £11; seniors £10.50; children £10; students £10.50; family of three £30; family of four £41. O r 0333 666 3366.