There is still time to book the six-week History of Art course that starts on Wednesday 23rd October. From the cave paintings of Altamira to the cinema of Pedro Almadóvar, Spain has an impressive history of visual art.
This course offers a selective introduction to that history. Each session considers a major Spanish artist or an artist working in Spain. The emphasis throughout is on the dialogue between tradition and modernity: how old masters such as El Greco, Velázquez and Goya anticipated aspects of modern art and how modern artists like Picasso, Miró and Dalí continued to find inspiration in the work of the Spanish masters. Each session offers an introduction to an aspect of Spanish art and will address specific themes, contexts and artists. The sessions will typically consist of two halves: the first giving a broader overview of an artist’s career; the second an in-depth discussion of a particular artwork. The course runs from 10.30am till 12 noon every week and is great value at £42 for the six-week course.
Always popular with Ilkley Playhouse audiences, Celtic folk trio band Roisin Ban return to the Wildman Studio on Friday 1st November for an evening of lively Celtic folk music and song. Playing a mix of traditional Irish and Scottish folk songs and tunes, this accomplished band is well-respected on the UK folk scene. They have performed at numerous folk festivals in the UK, including their annual fixture at the Whitby Folk Week.
There is not long to wait now for our first Stagefright Comedy Club of the season! On Saturday 2nd November the event will be frontlined by Mick Ferry who is renowned as a fine purveyor of surrealism and voted best UK Stand-Up in a national poll of his peers. Mick has starred in The Comedy Store for Comedy Central, Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, Edinburgh Comedy Fest, The World Stands Up aswell as the Ken Loach film Looking for Eric. Joining him will be comedian Karl Porter – a fantastic natural born gagster from the North-West England. A ‘Lad of the Year’ nominee, you can’t but help love his cheeky and unique self-deprecation, laced with tall tales and hilarious observations. Stevie Cairns will also be performing, described as having ‘an immediately likeable stage presence, delivering inventive storytelling material and memorable punchlines’. Joining them will be Andy Ellis, described as ‘one of the best new acts around’ (Micky P Kerr – Britain’s Got Talent Finalist). The event will be compered by Anthony J Brown.
Our next Wharfeside Theatre production is Rory Kinnear’s debut play The Herd, opening on Thursday 7th November. As Andy Griffith’s 21st birthday arrives, his return home – a rare occurrence - sparks mounting tensions for his mother Carol. Torn between familial expectations, the arrival of unexpected guests and the painful reality of Andy’s deteriorating health, can the Griffiths family unite despite fate’s adversities? This witty, agonising and eye-opening play cleverly balances moments of comedy with intense drama, and reveals, with clarity and compassion, the frustrations, love and sacrifices involved in caring for a family member with disabilities. Rory Kinnear is an award-winning actor and playwright and is well-known for playing Bill Tanner in the recent James Bond films and has played leading men in Hamlet, Othello and Macbeth at the National Theatre. The Herd is his debut play and draws on his experience of growing up with his sister Karina who suffered a lack of oxygen at birth that caused severe brain damage. Director Rick Hyland says of the play, “Don't miss the chance to experience award-winning play, The Herd! This play is a compelling and heart-warming exploration of family dynamics. The Herd delves deep into the complex relationships that define us all. This production promises an evening filled with laughter, sharp dialogue, and unexpected twists. Come join us for a theatrical experience that stays with you long after the curtain falls.” Please note that this production contains strong language. The play runs until 16th November.
On Friday 22 November the Scarborough-based five piece band Stony Jazz will make their debut performance at Ilkley Playhouse, showcasing timeless songs and music from ‘The Great American Songbook’. Expect songs from Broadway and Hollywood musicals as well as Tin Pan Alley and more modern popular songs. There will be something for everyone! This hugely talented five-piece band featured recently at the highly- acclaimed Scarborough Jazz Festival.
To book tickets for all our plays and events visit www.ilkleyplayhouse.co.uk or contact Ilkley Playhouse box office on 01943 609539.
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