PRODUCTIONS in the Wildman Studio at Ilkley Playhouse always have a special, intangible quality to them. Entering in to the half-light of the black room sets the tone for something intimate and interesting, with possibilities limited only by the audience's imagination.

This special quality of Wildman productions is party due to the setting but also the subject matter chosen. As the audience is a breath away from the actors stories become more intimate and more personal. There's almost a primal echo of old-fashioned storytelling round a fire, the audience huddled together while the story unfolds.

All of which is perfect for the farm setting of Visitors, by Barney Norris. Written while the author was still in his 20s, it's a remarkably mature and thoughtful play examining life, love and ageing, all set on a Dales farm.

Arthur has begun having falls. But he feigns strength as he works hard to keep his farm going and looks after his wife Edie, who is showing early signs of dementia. Their life changes with the arrival of a blue-haired carer with problems of her own. Meanwhile, their son Stephen is determined that his mother should be in a care home, not living in a remote farmhouse.

Described by the Guardian on its initial release as 'infinitely touching', this is a thoughtful piece to absorb and savour.

In other Playhouse news, our production of Alan Ayckbourn's superb multi-faceted comedy Role Play is tickling audiences. It runs until Saturday, January 27th. A few tickets are still available.

To book for Role Play or Visitors please call 01943 609 539 or go to www.ilkleyplayhouse.co.uk

by Claire Emmott