IF YOU go down to the Playhouse tonight you’re in for a big surprise! Rehearsals for our next two productions are in full swing. To enter, you’ll need to turn left down the rabbit hole into The Wildman Studio where you’ll find our talented bunch of Junior Greenroom actors preparing to bring you the delightful tale of Alice, a one-act adaptation of the famous novel by Lewis Carroll and a delight for all.

The rabbit is practicing his hop, the cat its grin, and the caterpillar its crawl. Meanwhile Alice remains curious and a little startled at the constant call of “off with her head!” The Cheshire Cat says everyone in Wonderland is mad and therefore Alice must be too. Has Alice lost her head? Only the Cheshire Cat knows for sure.

This curious tale is the perfect way to start a season of winter wonder. The cornucopia of strange creatures Alice meets are delightful, the costumes are charming, and the young cast’s acting is impressive. If last year’s success is anything to go by, tickets will fly, so book early to see this classic.

There is also magic and wonder rehearsing in The Wharfeside Theatre. Turn right, go upstairs and through the wardrobe into the wintery world of Narnia. The tale of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe may be familiar, but its telling is ageless, especially when it’s told with such joy, magic, music and talent. We are excited to bring this production to you and would love you to join us for this Christmas spectacular!

We have even more exciting news to share because on Saturday, December 17 the matinee of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe will be our very first Relaxed Performance. This means that the show will be slightly adapted, and the atmosphere in the theatre more relaxed, so it’s perfect for people who might shy away from public performances. The lights will be turned up, the sound down a little and relaxed performance always includes a relaxed attitude to noise and movement in the auditorium.

There will be a special ‘quiet’ zone for anyone who might feel uncomfortable at any point in the performance. There’ll be a friendly Front of House team to welcome you. We will also provide a visual story for anyone who needs it in advance, as well as a clear synopsis.

This is an exciting first step for us – we’re looking forward to welcoming new people to the theatre, and we’re hoping this is the first of many Relaxed Performances at the Playhouse.

Alice shows at 2pm on Saturday, December 3 and Sunday, December 4. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe will run from December 7 to December 17 with two Saturday matinee performances. The matinee on December 17 is a relaxed performance.

To book tickets for these – or any of our other events – visit our website www.ilkleyplayhouse.co.uk or phone the Box Office on 01943 609539. You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date with the latest Ilkley Playhouse news and some backstage gossip!