ILKLEY Playhouse is thrilled to begin 2016 with a production of My Boy Jack, running from Wednesday, January 20 to Saturday, January 30 in the Wharfeside Theatre.

Written by the actor and playwright David Haig (better known as “Bernard” from Four Weddings and a Funeral), the play takes its name from a poem written by Rudyard Kipling about his son and has been made into a successful film starring David Haig, Daniel Radcliffe and Kim Cattrall.

Under the experienced directorial hand of Dick Hebbert, Ilkley Playhouse’s production of My Boy Jack promises to both a powerful and moving account of World War 1. The play begins in the build up to the war with a resolute Rudyard Kipling determined that his twice-rejected, severely short-sighted son John should fight for his country. To this end, Kipling pulls strings and obtains John a commission in the Irish Guards – a decision that will haunt him and his family for the rest of their lives.

A suggested AS Level text, this unmissable portrayal of a family touched by the horror of war will appeal to young and old alike. To book your ticket visit www.ilkleyplayhouse.co.uk or call 01943 609539.

For those seeking something a little more light-hearted, why not try the next Stagefright Comedy Club @ The Playhouse on Saturday, February 27? We’ve already got the brilliant Bobby Mair and Andrew Watts confirmed to perform – with more acts to be announced.

Bobby Mair was voted in the Top 10 Jokes of the Edinburgh Festival and 'best newcomer' in the Canadian Comedy Awards. He has appeared on 8 Out of 10 Cats, Russell Howard’s Big News and Never Mind The Buzzcocks.

“He’s either going to be a huge international comedy star or the funniest homeless man ever,” says Jimmy Carr. High praise indeed!

Supporting act Andrew Watts is renowned for cramming more provocative thoughts into 20 minutes than many more experienced comics manage in a decade and has received a five star review from Chortle for his 2014 Edinburgh show.

With these acts and more, the night is guaranteed to be a highly amusing one. The Ilkley Playhouse Stagefright Comedy Nights usually sell out at lightning speed. Don’t miss out – book your tickets now. Visit www.ilkleyplayhouse.co.uk or call 01943 609539.