ARE you looking for comedy, drama and music to light up these soggy summer evenings? We have all three in a relaxed, inviting atmosphere, and they’re on your doorstep (metaphorically speaking).

The Playhouse’s next Comedy Club will be held in the Wharfeside Theatre on July 23, from 8pm. Billed as a ‘Triple-Header Special’, it’s an Edinburgh Festival preview, with big names and big laughs. Ivan Brackenbury, from BBC1’s acclaimed Hospital People, is joined by Tom Binns, the show’s writer. Tom brought his characters to Ilkley Playhouse some months ago and was a big hit with our audience. Joining them is Ian D Montfort, a comic spirit medium (a comedium, if you will), previewing material from his forthcoming Edinburgh show How To Touch Dead People.

The evening will be compered once again by Anthony J Brown. We are very fortunate to have all this talent on the same night and have a sneak peek at what the Edinburgh Festival crowds will be enjoying in August. Tickets are selling well, so don’t leave it too late to get yours!

Our next fringe production in the Wildman Studio is a special double bill. Two very different plays, separated by an interval, will bring cultural and social interest and insight. Ghost Town by Jessica Fisher, and Hannah and Hanna by John Retallack are thought-provoking, topical and interesting productions, tightly written, and immaculately performed. It’s a perfect evening for students and discussion groups, as well as usual theatre goers and is sure to stimulate further debate after the curtain goes down.

Ghost Town, directed by Andrew Leggott, addresses the increasing prevalence of mental health problems among the young. The touches of light and shade to the piece are highlighted by moments of warmth and humour. The thoughtful writing made Jessica Fisher the recipient of the Nick Darke award for stage, screen and radio writing. We are fortunate to be staging one of the play’s first productions.

Hannah and Hanna, directed by Steve Mason, is a topical and relevant piece of work about friendship, immigration and cultural differences. It is feisty and passionate storytelling that explores the relationship of two young girls from very different backgrounds – the titular Hannah and Hanna – who are brought together by a shared love of karaoke. Hannah and Hanna explores the nature of differences, and features moments of comedy, tenderness and of course drama. The performances are heartfelt and the atmospheric setting of The Wildman Studio will surely weave its usual magic on the audience.

So: if you are interested in new writing, contemporary themes, studio theatre and supporting young actors then come along to enjoy a thoughtful, intimate and talented double bill. It’s perfect for aspiring actors, and anyone – young or old – with an interest in theatre.

The Wildman Studio double bill is on July 28 to 30. This is a Fringe event, meaning simple, stripped-back theatre with a focus on actors, dialogue and action. Tickets are only £6.

Finally, Tears of Laughter: Simon Mayor and Hilary James will bring beautiful mandolin music to Wharfeside theatre on August 20. The duo will share their unique combination of Simon Mayor’s virtuosity and Hilary James’ voice, often described as “honey dripping”… not to mention Hilary’s enormous mandobass! If you’ve seen them before, you’ll know what fun is in store.

The diversity of their repertoire can surprise to first-timers: from folk to blues, Berlioz, classical mandolin show-stoppers, and swing, plus their own infamous comic songs. It’s a hugely entertaining evening, but don’t take our word for it: BBC Radio 4 describes Hilary James as having “one of Britain’s finest voices”; while the World Service described them as “sheer musical brilliance”. Serious praise – but don’t take it too seriously!

To book your ticket for the Stagefright Comedy Club, Ghost Town and Hannah and Hanna or any of our events, visit www.ilkleyplayhouse.co.uk or call 01943 609539. You can follow us on Facebook or Twitter for the latest news, reviews and pictures.

by Claire Emmott