First Call, Last Call

First Call

THE NUTCRACKER has survived commercialism and remains an inspiration to the wonder of Christmas. With inspirational designs by Sue Blane, Tchaikovsky's gloriously familiar score played by the full Orchestra of English National Ballet and the talents of a world-class company of dancers, this production promises to attract rave reviews and once more be a Christmas favourite.

English National Ballet, The London Coliseum, St Martin's Lane, London WC2 15 Dec-9 Jan

Last Call

IF IT'S the atmosphere of a student disco you want, then The SawDoctors (right) are just what the apothecary ordered. Which is not to say this heady mix of rock and folk isn't enjoyable to the more respectable members of society; it will just never be admitted in cool corners. The SawDoctors have always been better understood by the terminally untrendy - they're the ones you can spot having a good time.

Forum, London (0171-344 0044) 2 Dec; St David's Hall, Cardiff (01222 878444) 5 Dec; Cambridge Corn Exchange (01223 878444) 7 Dec; Norwich UEA (01603 505401) 11 Dec; Colston Hall, Bristol (0117 922 3686) 12 Dec; Portsmouth Guildhall (01705 824355) 20 Dec