October at Mansfield Palace Theatre: Rock, laughs, magic and a monster or two!

As autumn arrives, audiences can look forward to an action-packed month of entertainment, from legendary rock and pop anthems to razor-sharp comedy, dazzling drag, spectacular magic and family fun.

Turn up the volume

Music fans are particularly well catered for this October, with a host of tribute acts and live concert experiences celebrating some of the biggest names in music history.

The month gets into full swing on Wednesday 7 October with Rave On: The 50s & 60s Experience, taking audiences on a nostalgic trip through the biggest hits of rock 'n' roll's golden era.

Fleetwood Mac fans can experience the magic of the legendary band with Dreams of Fleetwood Mac on Thursday 8 October, before Ultimate Classic Rock Show brings a powerhouse collection of rock anthems from across the decades on Friday 9 October.

On Saturday 10 October, it's time to celebrate The Rocket Man himself with a spectacular tribute to the music, style and showmanship of Elton John.

The rock continues with Steve Steinman's Anything For Love on Saturday 17 October, celebrating the legendary music of Meat Loaf, while Mercury brings Queen's greatest hits to the Palace on Friday 23 October.

The month closes with two more musical treats: The Simon & Garfunkel Story on Friday 30 October, an immersive concert-style production exploring the story behind one of music's most successful duos, followed by The Greatest Hits of Motown on Saturday 31 October, promising a night of timeless soul classics.

Laughs, legends and larger-than-life entertainment

There are plenty of opportunities to laugh this October, beginning with My Life with Kenneth Williams on Thursday 22 October. Celebrating Kenneth Williams' 100th birthday, David Benson presents his portrait of one of Britain's best-loved comedy icons.

Then, on Saturday 24 October, The Comedy Store brings another fantastic night of razor-sharp stand-up from some of the UK's best comedians.

For those who like their comedy a little more outrageous, Australian comedian Kevin Bloody Wilson returns on Wednesday 28 October with his trademark blend of songs, stories and outrageous humour. Please note this performance is for ages 16+.

And for a very different kind of night out, Dreamboys return on Thursday 1 October, promising the ultimate ladies' night out with sensational dancing, exciting routines and plenty of fun. The month continues in suitably glamorous style with Tease: The Burlesque and Cabaret Experience on Thursday 15 October, featuring burlesque, cabaret and sensational variety entertainment. Both shows are 18+.

Magic, mystery and murder

October wouldn't be complete without a little mystery, and Illusion Impossible on Wednesday 14 October promises to leave audiences wondering just how they did it, with mind-blowing illusions, incredible stunts and breathtaking magic.

For something altogether more chilling, The Makings of a Murderer: The Undercover Detective arrives on Thursday 29 October. Former detective Peter Bleksley shares gripping real-life stories from the front line of criminal investigations, offering audiences an insight into the world of undercover policing and serious crime.

Family adventures and prehistoric fun

Half term gets a monstrous makeover at the Palace, with two family favourites heading to Mansfield.

On Tuesday 20 and Wednesday 21 October, Tom Fletcher's much-loved children's book There's a Monster in Your Show leaps from page to stage in a fun-filled adventure for young audiences.

Then, on Tuesday 27 October, families can head back in time for Ice Age Adventure Live, joining their favourite prehistoric friends for a thrilling live adventure packed with laughs and excitement.

Divas, art and everything in between

Fans of fabulous entertainment won't want to miss Queenz: Battle of the Divas on Tuesday 13 October, when drag royalty takes centre stage in a dazzling vocal showdown celebrating some of the world's most iconic divas.

And for art lovers, Exhibition on Screen: Lucian Freud – A Self Portrait on Friday 16 October explores the life and work of one of Britain's most celebrated artists through a fascinating film event.

With an eclectic line-up spanning music, comedy, family entertainment, magic, cabaret, art and true crime, October at Mansfield Palace Theatre promises a month packed with reasons to take your seat.