First Call, Last Call

First Call

INJECTED WITH a powerful dose of 20th-century spice through the poetic wizardry of the late Ted Hughes (right), Ovid's epic tale is now being brought to our attention in the RSC's stage production of Tales From Ovid. Having worked closely with the late Poet Laureate, Tim Supple directs what is set to be an intelligent and accessible dramatisation of these ancient stories chronicling the metamorphosis of gods and heroes. Their enactment should do for Ovid what Stoppard did for Houseman, and Bennett for Kafka.

Swan Theatre, Stratford (01789-295 623) from 8 Apr

Last Call

YOU CAN CATCH London soul man Lynden David Hall on a UK tour this month, fresh from his nomination in the Best Male category of the Brits Awards. The young starlet is one to watch with his luxurious harmonies and varied repertoire from Nu Classic Soul to American R'n'B. There have already been two hit singles from last year's debut album, Medicine 4 My Pain, prompting critics to proffer that he could be the new Al Green.

Riverside, Newcastle (0191-261 4386) tonight; The Junction, Cambridge (01223 511511) tomorrow; Wedgewood Rooms, Portsmouth (01705 863911) 18 Mar