THE Mart Theatre in Skipton has an entertaining autumn and winter season in store for the residents of Craven.

The season blasted off last week with four performances of the smash-hit sci-fi musical Return to the Forbidden Planet.

During the half term week the young members of Bad Wolf Theatre Company have been busy rehearsing their performance of The Wizard of Oz.

Follow the expedition of Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tinman and the Cowardly Lion along the Yellow Brick Road as they go in search of the Great Wizard.

But be warned. There will be a wicked witch about, so The Mart Theatre is inviting young members of the audience to dress in their scariest Halloween costumes to keep her at bay.

The show will be performed on Saturday at 5pm and Sunday at 1pm. Tickets cost £8 for adults, £6 for children or a family of four for £24.

Back by popular demand are two concerts featuring the Kast Off Kinks on Friday, November 11, and the Sounds of Simon on Saturday, November 12.

Over the weekend of November 19 and 20 Crafts in the Pen will return for its second year.

This year’s event sees an increase in stallholders showcasing and selling their hand crafted gifts. There will also be a greater range of products available.

Christmas shoppers will be able to find many original, unique gifts, including ceramics, jewellery, glassware, woodwork, metal, glass decorations and much more.

This year Santa will be paying a visit in his Grotto. The Grotto is free and includes a small present, so there will be something for all ages to enjoy.

Also look out for some of Santa’s reindeer, who will be parked up waiting to take him home.

The event is open from 10am to 4pm on both the Saturday and Sunday.

There will be two cafés serving hot and cold food and beverages.

Entry is £5 per person (under 16s free) and this includes free parking and a visitor brochure.

All monies raised will be invested into The Mart Theatre, which currently runs without any form of funding.

Although sheltered from the wind and rain, visitors are advised you to dress warm.

For more details about the event visit craftsinthepen.org.uk

Chris Connor, the world’s leading Elvis performer, will return on Friday, December 2, and Saturday, December 3.

This show is a must see for any Elvis fan but book soon because these tickets always sell out fast.

Then on Sunday, December 4, The Houghton Weavers will return for an afternoon of songs.

The autumn and winter season will conclude with the Mart's Christmas pantomime which has become a family tradition.

This year the three good fairies will have to battle to evil Maleficent in Sleeping Beauty, which runs from Friday, December 16, to Sunday, December 18.

For further details or to book tickets for any of the above performances, visit themarttheatre.org.uk or ring the box office on 01756 709666.