THE Oxford Playhouse has just announced its new season, and it sparkles with some real gems.

CLIVE JAMES takes to the stage in an evening to remember on May 14. In an unprecedented feat of strength, he carries his latest book on stage and then talks about almost anything else, after which he answers questions about everything except his liaison with Margarita Pracatan ...

Children will also love THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA, a stunning adaptation of a classic tale of teatime mayhem, based on the picture book by Judith Kerr, brought to life from May 14–16.

JAN RAVENS makes her solo stage debut with A FUNNY LOOK AT IMPRESSIONS. Many of her best-loved characters will be making appearances, from Anne Robinson to Fiona Bruce. This insightful look at the world of funny voices and silly wigs will be at Oxford Playhouse on May 15.

Michael Frayn knows the business of journalism inside out.

ALPHABETICAL ORDER takes place in a provincial, but chaotic newspaper office in the 1970s. When the paper is threatened with closure, a battle between order and pandemonium ensues. ALPHABETICAL ORDER will be at the Playhouse from May 18–May 23.

Mums’ favourite Stephen Tompkinson appears in SIGN OF THE TIMES, an acutely observed human comedy about the art of achieving happiness in unpredictable times from June 1-6.

AN INSPECTOR CALLS has thrilled audiences across the world with its raw emotion, evocative score, lashing rain and chilling suspense.

Stephen Daldry, Best Director Oscar nominee for The Reader, director of the Academy award-winning blockbuster The Hours and one of Britain’s best-loved films Billy Elliot, directs this smash hit West End and Broadway production of JB Priestley’s thriller. AN INSPECTOR CALLS will be at Oxford Playhouse from June 9 – 13.

The Agatha Christie Theatre Company will be in the house after that, enacting THE SPIDER’S WEB from June 29 – July 4.

FOR YOU makes a much anticipated visit to the Playhouse on July 11, following the tour cancellation last year. Music Theatre Wales’ new opera is a thrilling tale of dark obsession and misplaced passion with text by Ian McEwan.

Other highlights include a new version of Roald Dahl’s THE BFG, in August.

To book or find out more, call the box office on 01865 305305 or go to oxfordplayhouse.com