WITH Valentines in mind, it’s a good time to introduce you to a pair of star-crossed lovers who play out their timeless tale at Ilkley Playhouse this March.

The light from yonder window is breaking over the Wharfeside stage, as Romeo and Juliet prepare to enthral audiences with their story of love, passion, drama and, of course, tragedy.

With a brief to make Romeo and Juliet accessible to a modern teenage audience (it is, after all, a key school text) as well as to create interest and add to the interpretation of a more seasoned Shakespeare aficionados, director Miranda Armitage is staging her play amid a modern climate of business and banking - a topical area that modern theatregoers may relate to.

To add a contemporary twist, this will be a multi-media production incorporating modern forms of communication. The staging itself adds another layer to the drama to the twists of the story. Miranda sees that it is crucial for the audience to relate to the characters’ key emotions. By including music, dance, social media commentary, and some gripping fight scenes, the world of the Capulets and Montagues is made vivid and tangible. The young, enthusiastic cast draw you into the action with their energy and passion. Romeo and Juliet runs from Wednesday, March 8 to Saturday, March 18, with a matinee on March 11.

Ilkley Playhouse has cemented its comedy credentials with the fast-selling Evening of Comedy with Charlie Chuck (February 24) as well as our regular Stagefright Comedy night. Ever popular with locals and stand-up regulars from afar, our next evening is this Saturday, February 18.

Tickets can still be purchased for an evening of comedy and fun with the quick-fire wit of Gavin Webster (voted 2014’s “Comedians’ Comedian”), star of Never Mind The Buzzcocks and The Eleven O’Clock Show. Gavin is joined by Kieran Lawless (who has recently finished touring with Patrick Kielty), Stu Woodings, and Maisie Adams. The evening will be hosted by our very popular and funny regular MC Anthony J Brown. As usual, there will be informal cabaret style seating, and plenty of opportunities to visit the bar. It promises to be a great night, so don't miss out; get your tickets now!

If you forgot the chocolates on the 14th, or just want to treat family or friends to a classic evening’s entertainment, then Peggy-Sue and the Cupcakes may be the event for you. Peggy-Sue and co will treat you to their delectable harmonies with hits from the 40s and 50s, plus a few well-loved musical favourites and modern classics. They are with us on the Saturday, February 25. Admission is £17.50 per person and includes a delicious fish and chip supper, courtesy of Grandad Nicol’s, finished off with a cupcake - of course! - from Jeanette’s Cakery. A delightful and delectable evening’s entertainment for all!

To book tickets visit www.ilkleyplayhouse.co.uk or phone the Box Office on 01943 609539.