THE centenary of the birth of Richard Rodgers falls on June 28. What better timing for Something Wonderful, York Light Opera Society's Songs From The Shows tribute shows at Joseph Rowntree Theatre, York, next week.

The music of Rodgers & Hammerstein and Rodgers & Hart forms the programme of next Tuesday to Saturday's shows, as part of the world-wide celebrations of the late American's 100th birthday next Friday.

Geoffrey Turner is the narrator for a musical journey through the life and work of the Long Island composer, that journey taking in Pal Joey; To Keep My Love Alive; The King And I (We Kiss In The Shadow, Shall We Dance?); Sing For Your Supper; The Lady Is A Tramp; A Grand Night For Singing (I'm In Love With A Wonderful Guy, Some Enchanted Evening); Something Wonderful; The Flower Drum Song (I Enjoy Being A Girl, You Are Beautiful); Carousel; and abundant selections from Oklahoma! and South Pacific.

Among the soloists will be Jane Tobin; Ann Kelly; Carol Richardson, singing the show's title number; Jon Bircher, last seen playing young Scrooge in February; Ivan Chaplin, Scrooge earlier this year; and Ivan's daughter, Alexa, who will be singing solos for the first time in a summer production, as will Jon.

Next week's performances start at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £6, concessions £5, for the first night; £7.50 for the rest of the week. Ring R Hudson on 01904 791714 or the Theatre Royal box office, 01904 623568.

Updated: 09:44 Friday, June 21, 2002