AN ideal way to beat the blues as the autumn nights draw in is to follow a host of celebrities in one-night shows at the Chester Gateway Theatre.

As part of the Chester Literature Festival, the Gateway presents an evening of poetry and music with Roger McGough, Andy Roberts and Jackie Kay on October 6.

Roger and Jackie will be reading from their collections - both very moving and funny - and Andy, guitarist and composer, will provide accompaniment.

Comedy comes in the form of Being There With Peter Sellers, a one-man show written and performed by Richard Braine.

In attempting to stop another man's suicide, Sellers finds himself reflecting on his own life - a career with disturbing and hilarious results.

The show features a glorious array of Goon Show anecdotes, wicked impressions and Hollywood tales.

And on Monday, November 10, Matt Lucas - George Dawes in Shooting Stars - brings his other alter ego to Chester.

Sir Bernard Chumley's Gangshow is an anarchic night out as Sir Bernard is aided and abetted by a host of warped and hilarious characters played by David William and Tim Atack. Adults only please and no riff-raff!

Tickets for all shows are £9 and are available on 01244 340392.

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