THE curtain will go up at Didcot's long-awaited arts centre Cornerstone on August 29.

South Oxfordshire District Council announced that the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain will lead the opening night celebrations, performing rock 'n' roll hits, punk, jazz and classical music.

The eight-strong group has performed at sell-out concerts around the world, collaborating with bands which included Madness and Kaiser Chiefs. They have also made numerous appearances on national TV and radio programmes.

The £7.4m venue is almost complete and council managers have already scheduled a full programme of events for the autumn season.

Arts centre manager Emma Dolman said: "We are delighted to have attracted such a famous, fun and inspirational act to perform on our opening night.

"The orchestra will be the first of many top class acts to grace the stage at this brilliant new arts venue, which will offer a fun, inspiring and professional environment for local people to enjoy a wide variety of creative and cultural activities."

On Saturday, August 30, and Sunday, August 31, the launch festival will continue with a specially commissioned outdoor theatre performance, including a portrayal of Didcot's past, present and future.

The centre, at the junction of Orchard Street and Station Road, has been designed by architects Ellis Williams, creators of the renowned Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art at Gateshead.

It includes a 278-seat auditorium for drama, music, dance and comedy, exhibition spaces, a cafe, bar and restaurant.

Window walls, which face out to the street, will provide exhibition space for work created by community groups, artists and schools.

An 'Every Day Jewels' display chest will showcase archaeological items excavated from the power station site and other more modern items, while perforated panels, an idea from former St Birinus School, Didcot, pupil Ian Caswell have been incorporated to give the building a three-dimensional effect.

The centre will open from Tuesdays to Sundays, bringing 40 jobs to the town.

District councillor Bill Service, cabinet member for leisure, said: "Local people will have seen Cornerstone taking shape over recent months with its contemporary design and colourful cladding.

"The council is so proud of the building and what it will mean for Didcot. It's nearly ready, but for me the building won't quite be complete until it is full of people enjoying the facilities."

Tickets for the opening night, at £17.50, are available from the Cornerstone box office in advance only on 01491 823823.