Pantomime has its own Pop Idol this year in the shape of East Morton man Paul Nowland.

He returns to Ilkley theatre group Up-Stagers for another "funny and frivolous" stint as a Dame.

"Regulars will be eagerly waiting to see which pop star he transforms himself into this year," says the group.

"Paul's use of outrageous costumes and his great rapport with the audience causes them to return year after year."

Paul, by day a Barclays Bank manager, appears in Red Riding Hood at King's Hall, Ilkley, on 3-7.

Laura Judge, also from East Morton, plays the principal boy after appearing this week with Keighley Playhouse.

Performances are weekdays (7.15pm), Saturday (2.15pm, 7.15pm), and Sunday (1 & 5pm). Phone 01943 607944.

n Cyrano is a brave swordsman, brilliant poet and loyal friend but he's unlucky in love because he's got a big nose.

He lends his words to a handsome but tongue-tied soldier who is also in love with Roxane.

That the premise of the classic French story that is revived by acclaimed Bradford theatre company Mind the Gap.

The cast, who have learning disabilities, plan to provide passion, romance, comedy, tragedy, sword fights and endless nose jokes.

A national tour begins at the Alhambra Studio, Bradford, on temporary 12-14. Book at Keighley Information Centre or telephone 01274432000.

n Four boys smuggle a copy of forbidden play Romeo and Juliet into their school and stage it secretly.

The result is Shakespeare's R&J, praised as brilliant and electrifying, at the West Yorkshire Playhouse, Leeds, on February 23-28. Book at Keighley Information Centre or phone 0113 213 7700.

n A Johann Strauss gala brings together favourite waltzes and polkas on February 22 at the Grand Theatre in Leeds.

Dancers in period costume perform to the Blue Danube, Radetsky Match and other classical pieces. Book at Keighley Information Centre or phone 0113 222 6222.

n Shakespeare walks the plank next week as Ilkley Players perform an "exciting and innovative" version of Much Ado about Nothing

The romantic comedy, pictured below, is set on the Italian coast where a pirate crew is being entertained by a crime lord and his nieces.

The rascally band play fast and loose with life, love and lucre from Monday until February 7. Book on 01943 609539.