ROLL up, ladies and gentleman, for the funniest night of November! Make your way to the twinkling lights of Ilkley Playhouse on Saturday, November 18 for Stagefright Comedy Night. Head to the bar, get yourself a drink, then take up residence at a table in the relaxing atmosphere of the Wildman Studio. The bar is open all night, the ambiance convivial.

This month’s line-up features Shazia Mirza, notable for her deadpan delivery and sharp one-liners. Shazia is an award-winning stand-up comedian, actor and columnist, and has recently been seen on Celebrity Island with Bear Grylls. Also taking the stage is Josh Pugh, current holder of two comedy crowns: English Comedian of the Year, and Chortle Comedian to Watch. He’s a confident, amiable presence.

They’ll be ably supported by Lucy Thompson and Jake Donaldson. Lucy was recently nominated for Best Show at the Leicester Comedy Festival; while Jake joins us in his post-Edinburgh Fringe glow, where he was a hit with audiences who lapped up his storytelling, observational style. This month’s compere is Elliot J Huntley. Elliot will entertain you with comic songs, inventive tales and twisted punchlines. The evening is hosted by Ilkley Playhouse’s own Robson Stroud.

On the horizon are more stellar Playhouse productions. December sees Gregory’s Girl take to the Wharfeside stage. Just saying the title brings a smile to your face and a nice nostalgic “ahhh” moment for those who remember the 1981 Scottish coming-of-age romantic comedy film. The same warm humour runs through our version, set on a local playing field.

Our young Greenroom actors bring you the story of Gregory, a gangly adolescent with a quirky world view. His struggling football team has mixed reactions to the inclusion of a talented star player – when she turns out to be a girl. While all the boys want this gorgeous footballer as their girlfriend, Dorothy is more interested in sporting excellence. If you are familiar with the film you’ll remember that it includes mild sexual references.

From light-and-funny to dark-and-funny: January brings Alan Ayckbourn’s comedy, Role Play. A couple host a London dinner party to introduce her intolerant northern parents and his alcoholic Surrey mother. What could possibly go wrong? Apart from the arrival of a lap-dancer on the run from her violent boyfriend, followed by her gun-toting minder, obviously. Funny, poignant, and a hit with critics, it’ll be a life-affirming night out!

Stagefright Comedy Night is on November 18 at 8pm; the bar is open from 7pm.

Gregory’s Girl runs from December 6 to 16. Role Play runs from January 17 to 27.

Tickets are available at www.ilkleyplayhouse.co.uk or from 01943 609 539.