Skipton Mart Theatre has fought back from a financial crisis... and has put together a varied programme of entertainment for the spring.

The theatre faced problems after the Arts Council withdrew its funding two years ago.

But Clare Allen, the Mart’s artistic director, said: “The theatre has overcome its financial difficulties and is back at full strength – if anything, it is bigger and better than ever.

“It is programming the very best in modern entertainment and creating first-class professional productions.

“For a theatre that had been on the ropes, it is now punching above its weight.”

There is a musical treat in store on March 21 when the band Toploader takes to the stage.

Its live set features all of the band’s singles, including Dancing In The Moonlight and Time Of My Life, as well as new material.

Being Brel, a one-man theatre show devised and performed by Nick O’Connor, comes to the Mart on March 28. It celebrates the life and works of Jacques Brel, with his songs performed in Flemish, French and English and interwoven with multimedia imagery, film footage and monologue.

Next on stage, on March 29, is award-winning comedian Rob Beckett on his debut UK tour.

“The plan for the show is for you to laugh a lot and leave happier than when you arrived,” says the publicity.

Fiddle player, Aly Bain, and accordionist Phil Cunningham head for the Mart on April 5. They have toured together since 1988 and have won numerous awards, including best duo in the BBC Radio Two Folk Awards.

Comedy returns to the Mart with Hal Cruttenden’s Tough Luvvie Tour on April 11 and Josh Widdecombe’s Incidentally Tour two days later.

Call 01756 709666 or visit themarttheatre.org.uk for information.