A DALES-based arts group with links to the Royal Shakespeare Company has been awarded a grant to further develop its 'Discover Shakespeare' project.

The Upper Wharfedale Arts and Literature Society (UWALS) launched the scheme earlier this year with a day’s workshop led by a member of the Stratford-upon-Avon based RSC’s voice and text team.

Now a grant from Clapham based Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust is enabling the group to develop its work with a project exploring Shakespeare’s sonnets and their links to his plays.

Discover Shakespeare is designed to enable people aged 16 and above, and of all levels of experience to overcome any ‘Shakespeare-phobia’ through enjoyable vocal and physical activities inspired by project-director Ron Norman’s own recent experience with the RSC.

The project resumes in October with another full day’s workshop which will be the platform for future presentation 'Fourteen Lines.'

Ron said: “We are thrilled that YDMT has recognised the value of this kind of active engagement with the arts in rural communities. Everyone is welcome at the workshops, whatever their previous experience – good or bad! - of Shakespeare. We try to keep things lively and make the exercises enjoyable as well as illuminating.”

The next session takes place in Kettlewell Village Hall on Saturday October 14 from 10am to 4.30pm. Cost £5, drinks but not lunch provided.

If you are 16 or over and would like to know more, contact Ron via email uwalsociety@gmail.com for information or to reserve your place.