THE Wharfeside theatre will be echoing with laughter this Saturday (July 23) courtesy of the Stage Fright Comedy Club, presenting an Edinburgh Festival preview ‘Triple-Header Special’. Fans of stand-up comedy are excited that we have brought these big names to Ilkley, and those expecting big laughs won’t be disappointed.

We are welcoming Ivan Brackenbury, from BBC1’s acclaimed Hospital People, joined by Tom Binns, the show’s writer. Tom was a big hit some months ago with the Playhouse audience. Self-described “comedium” Ian D Montfort is joining them with his, ahem, spirited comic medium act. Book now to see material from his show How To Touch Dead People ahead of the Edinburgh crowds. The evening will be compered by Anthony J Brown. We are very fortunate to have all this talent on the same night and without the trek up to Scotland! The bar will be open and there is always a great atmosphere throughout the Playhouse on comedy nights.

The Edinburgh festival preview night will be held in the Wharfeside Theatre on July 23, from 8pm. Tickets are selling well, so don’t leave it too late to get yours!

Thought-provoking drama is set to fill The Wildman studio later this month with our next fringe production. A special double bill, Ghost Town by Jessica Fisher and Hannah and Hanna by John Retallack, will entertain, inform and delight audiences.

They are two very different plays, separated by an interval, with themes of topical and social interest along with humour, intelligent performances and talking points. Audiences love our intimate and creative Wildman studio setting and these two plays fit in perfectly.

Ghost Town addresses friendship, memory and courage, which its award-winning author approaches with warmth, humour and contemplation. We are fortunate to be staging one of the play’s first productions.

Hannah and Hanna, meanwhile discusses immigration and cultural differences and how these intersect with friendship. The warm and honest female leads draw you into both sides of a divide. It’s well paced, energetic and peppered with music so, although a serious piece thematically, the overall tone is uplifting.

As a theatre in the heart of the community we love to support young actors, new writing and nurture creativity. If you like to do the same the come join us in The Wildman Studio on July 28 to 30. This is a Fringe event, meaning simple, stripped-back theatre with a focus on actors, dialogue and action. Certainly something to think about. Tickets are only £6.

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