SEPTEMBER is a time for sharpening pencils, perusing your diary and planning some entertainment for the months ahead. You may have seen Ilkley Playhouse’s Autumn/Winter brochure around town, you may even have one at home. To help you plan some entertainment to brighten your autumn evenings here is a little overview of what lies ahead.

Fire and Rain are playing in the Wildman Studio on Thursday, October 18. Their set is a celebration of their heroes James Taylor and Carole King. The concert is a nostalgic trip of the music of two iconic and wonderful performers. They will be joined on stage with the awarding winning singer-songwriter, Gracie Falls. Gracie will perform some of her own material, influenced by the wonderful Carole King.

The ever popular Stagefright comedy night is back with us on Saturday, October 20. The line-up includes Glenn Moore (as seen on Mock the Week), Simon Lomas (English Comedian of the year runner-up), Gemma Roberts, Mo Haroon and Compere - Anthony J Brown. Look out for more about this cracking line-up over the following weeks.

November brings us our next production on the Wharfeside stage, Barnbow Canaries by Alice Nutter. It tells the true story of a group of female munition workers at the secret Barnbow Factory in Leeds during First World War. There is a rich vein of humour in the writing with contemporary first world war songs and music of the era is woven throughout. This great story full of local interest runs from November 1 to 10.

Later in November, Saturday 17 to be precise, join us for an uplifting evening of music with The Guiseley Brothers and Otley Brass Band. They promise to raise the roof and raise some money at the same time. Proceeds from the concert will go to the Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice and Friends of Clockhouse.

And if you are raring for entertainment and a lot of laughter right now then join us for Sandi Toksvig’s dark comedy Silver lining, from September 12 to 22.

For more information about the season go to ilkleyplayhouse.co.uk, you can but tickets here or call the box office on 01943 609539 during box office opening hours.

l Claire Emmott