The evening also celebrated the end of their hugely successful 25th anniversary season.

Themed The Greatest Shows on Earth, the season will bring enticing offerings to Manning Valley residents all under the 'big top' of the Manning Entertainment Centre.

"We really do have 'something for everyone' in this year's line-up, including innovative new screenings of theatre, ballet and opera from around the world," said theatre manager Jeremy Miller.

"We are starting this week with David Tennant in Richard II and will have new screenings to be announced throughout the year.

"You will feel like you are sitting in London, Stratford-upon-Avon or Moscow."

Stage productions at the entertainment centre in the upcoming season include award-winning dramas, children's productions, circus performances, talent showcases and musical ensembles, bringing world-class entertainment to the Manning Valley.

The season includes a production from the Tiwi Islands as part of a new program bringing indigenous stories to Australian stages. Other highlights include the Melbourne Ballet Company, George Orwell's 1984 and children's shows Pete the Sheep, The Gruffalo and Mr McGee and the Biting Flea.

Season brochures are available from the entertainment centre and Movies, Games and More in Victoria Street, Taree, or by download from the Greater Taree City Council's website at www.gtcc.nsw.gov.au/mec