A TRULY historic event in the cultural life of the region sees the world famous Royal Philharmonic Orchestra begin its unprecedented sixth year of residency at Lowestoft's Marina Theatre tomorrow (Saturday).

A TRULY historic event in the cultural life of the region sees the world famous Royal Philharmonic Orchestra begin its unprecedented sixth year of residency at Lowestoft's Marina Theatre tomorrow (Saturday).

In a major coup for the town, the orchestra has been resident at the Edwardian venue since 2005. In the five years that they have already held the residency, the association has brought world famous musicians, soloists and conductors to Lowestoft, with the link hailed as one the most successful of its kind throughout the UK.

This year's season commences on Saturday at 7.30pm with a spectacular Beethoven Gala. The programme for the concert, which is conducted by Dionysios Dervis-Bournias, showcases the music of one of the greatest composers of all time and includes Beethoven's Egmont Overture, Piano Concerto No.5 & Symphony No.5 and features soloist Derek Han.

Ian Maclay, managing director of the RPO added: 'The last five years as resident orchestra at the Marina Theatre have proved an enormous success and we were delighted to announce a sixth year of concerts. The Orchestra greatly enjoys its association with Lowestoft, and the support that we have received from local audiences is very important to us. We look forward to continuing the residency in 2010 with a series of first-class concerts, featuring popular classical works alongside some special items from the world of film and opera.'

Echoing those sentiments, theatre manager Martin Halliday added: 'We are extremely proud of our association with the RPO and are delighted they've agreed to extend their residency at the Marina.'

Just a few seats remain available for this concert which starts at 7.30pm.

This Sunday, at 7.30pm, the Marina welcomes the return of one of the UK's top music acts as Talon celebrate the very best of legendary group The Eagles. Featuring a track by track, note by note recreation of the classic album Hotel California along with the best from recordings Take It Easy and Long Road Out Of Eden.

Comedy of an adult nature follows on Tuesday at 7.30pm as Cornish funnyman Jethro brings his unique brand of humour to the stage.

And rounding off a busy week, the national tour of the brand new stage version of classic sitcom Hi De Hi hits the theatre next week.

Starring original cast members, Barry Howard and Nikki Kelly as the professional ballroom dancing couple Barry and Yvonne Stuart-Hargreaves, the production also features Peter Amory - best-known as Chris Tate in ITV's Emmerdale - as Jeffrey Fairbrother, Sky One presenter Damian Williams as Ted Bovis and Abigail Finley - fresh from BBC's How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria? - in the role of Yellow-coat wannabe Peggy Ollerenshaw.

Performances run nightly at 7.30pm from next Thursday (April 29) through until Saturday, May 1, with a special matinee performance at 2.30pm on Saturday.

For more information or to book seats for any Marina Theatre concert or show, please telephone the box office on 01502 533200.