A sparkling mix of musicals, plays and comedy – plus a visit from one of the Black Country’s most famous faces – marks the New Year at Wolverhampton’s Grand Theatre.

Dudley-born comedian Lenny Henry is one of the big names visiting the theatre through the winter.

Lenny returns to the region as part of the tour of his new one-man show Where You From? on January 15 and again on March 19.

Grand Theatre marketing manager Iain Watkins said: “We are delighted to have Lenny here. His appeal is classless and ageless and he is so well-loved in this region.”

In February, controversy is likely to greet the five-day run of Thatcher The Musical.

The show chronicles the highs and lows of Margaret Thatcher’s 11-year term as Prime Minister and has already provided plenty of debate around the country. It is on at The Grand from February 6 to 10.

Musicals are a popular part of the 2007 schedule with a visit from the sell-out West End show We Will Rock You.

The musical, written by Ben Elton and based on the songs of Queen, has wowed crowds in London and is coming to Wolverhampton over Easter. It will be at the Lichfield Street venue on April 6 and 7.

Other famous Broadway and West End shows visiting the city include Thoroughly Modern Millie and 42nd Street.

Music from closer to home comes courtesy of the West Bromwich Operatic Society’s production of The Full Monty.

The controversial show, which was banned from a Sedgley theatre before being put on in Lichfield, is in Wolverhampton from April 17.

Operatic society vice-chairman Chris Ingley said he was delighted to be putting the uncut show at the Grand.

A dance extravaganza is on offer courtesy of the Russian Cossack State Dance Company and opera comes from the English Touring Opera.

There is plenty of entertainment for children with the festive panto Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs continuing until February 8 and visits from the Chuckle Brothers, Paul and Barry, and Noddy in April.

For tickets to any of the Grand Theatre shows call 01902 429212.