CURTAIN CALLS

Light Shining in Buckinghamshire

An extremely welcome revival of Caryl Churchill's riveting play about hopes and fears as a new government looms. Sound familiar? In fact, this was written 20 years ago and is set in the English Civil War. An all-too-brief London run before going back on tour. Don't miss.

National Theatre, London SE1 (0171-928 2252)

The Learned Ladies

Acute, astute direction by Steven Pimlott produces joys aplenty in Moliere's comedy of sex and sophistication. Jane Gurnett and Roger Allam elicit laughs and painful truths, while John Quayle's portrayal of the feckless father is an outrage - and very funny.

RSC The Pit, The Barbican, London EC1 (0171-638 8891)

Dick Daredevil

An energetic musical romp set in the Second World War about 10-year-old Billy who teams up with the fictional superhero to save the world. A vast cast dances its socks off, Howard Samuels is a hysterical villain, and only the hardest hearts will be unmoved. Camp, over-the-top, and why not?

Drill Hall, London WC1 (0171-637 8270)

Lady Windermere's Fan

A top-notch cast, including Simon Robson and Rosalind Knight, waltz through Wilde's exquisite comedy with predictable flair, while Gabrielle Drake fans the flames of good and bad behaviour.

Royal Exchange Mobile Theatre, Manchester (0161-833 9833)

Peter Pan

Matthew Warchus revives his hit production, with John Padden as Peter, Una Stubbs as Mrs Darling, spectacular designs and a marvellously high thrills, chills and spills factor.

West Yorkshire Playhouse, Leeds (0113-244 2111)

The Cherry Orchard

Penelope Wilton is simply astonishing as Madame Ranyevskaya, the woman at the literal and emotional heart of Chekhov's masterpiece. Closing soon, then tours.

Albery Theatre, London WC2 (0171-369 1730)

A Christmas Carol

Richard Briers is properly nasty in Neil Bartlett's simple and richly atmospheric retelling of Charles Dickens's classic. Splendid design and lighting plus terrific ensemble playing make this a treat for slightly older children.

Lyric Hammersmith, London W6 (0181-741 2311)