CHRISTMAS is about, among many other things, tradition: revisiting, sharing and celebrating stories, customs, songs and imagery from the past.

At the Playhouse, we’re especially keen on the stories, which leads us to this year’s festive play, an adaptation of the seasonal Dickens classic A Christmas Carol. As you’d expect, it features an entertaining mix of humbug, nostalgia, compassion and slightly intimidating Victorian sideburns.

We’re hosting a matinée “relaxed performance” on Saturday, December 15 at 2.30pm, with a freer theatre atmosphere. Everyone is welcome to book for this performance and the more relaxed atmosphere might be of interest to young families, people with autism or dementia, and anyone who prefers a less formal atmosphere. There’s more information on our website at www.ilkleyplayhouse.co.uk. A Christmas Carol runs from December 5 to the 15th. Tickets are being ‘spirited’ away, so don’t delay!

The same day sees the Playhouse’s annual Christmas Fair. Doors open at 9.30am, for mince pies, drinks, mingling, and some absorbing stalls to browse. A highlight will be a short performance by each of our Greenroom drama groups: Juniors (eight to ten) from 10am, Seniors (11 to 15) from 11.15, and adults from 12.30. Entry is free.

If you’d like to man a stall, sell refreshments or raffle tickets, or assist on our bookstall, please contact us on 01943 609539 or info@ilkleyplayhouse.co.uk.

Finally, something a little different… we’re excited to announce a brand-new Poetry and Novel course! This is a 10-week tutor-led course for participants to read and discuss poems inspired by two pairs of novels: History of Mr. Polly and Howards End, plus Sons and Lovers and Portrait of the Artist.

Participants can also suggest related poems, and will learn about the lives of the authors and the critical context to the novels. The course runs weekly from Thursday 24th January, with a week off for half term. It will be held in the Sheridan Suite at Ilkley Playhouse from 10.30am – 12 noon. Plenty more information about this enjoyable and innovative course can be found on the Ilkley Playhouse website.

Tickets for A Christmas Carol can be bought online at www.ilkleyplayhouse.co.uk or by calling 01943 609539 during box office opening times.

by Claire Emmott