First Call, Last Call

First Call

THE GROWN-UP novels of Salman Rushdie (right) often seem like fairy tales. But with Haroun and the Sea of Stories, Rushdie actually wrote it as a bedtime story for his son. Set in a ruined and forgotten city, it is about a storyteller who loses the ability to tell stories and whose son, Haroun, embarks on extraordinary adventures to restore his father's special talent. Now it has been adapted for the stage by Tim Supple, artistic director of the Young Vic.

Cottesloe Theatre, Royal National Theatre, South Bank, London SE1(0171- 452 3000) opens 1 Oct

Last Call

TO FIND OUT just how obscure techno wizards The Orb are it isn't necessary to peek into their underground world. Instead, hark back to them playing chess on Top of the Pops after their unfeasibly long "Blue Room" landed in the Top 40. Regardless of their low profile, though, they are stamped on our consciousness for the seminal "Little Fluffy Clouds", amazing live shows and an astute visual identity. With their 10th anniversary to mark, they have left the studio to treat us with a show next month.

Royal Albert Hall, London SW7 (0171-589 8212) 22 Oct tickets pounds 12.50- 17.50