A VARIED theatrical offering will be on stage at Keighley Playhouse this winter with audiences promised poignancy, romance and humour in two very different plays.

From November 28 to December 3, the theatre will be presenting Peter Clapham's stage adaptation of Louisa May Alcott's book 'Little Women', which was first published in 1868.

This timeless and enduring classic tells the story of the four March sisters’ journey from childhood to maturity during the American Civil War.

Audiences of all generations will enjoy acquainting – or reacquainting – themselves with the sisters: Meg, the eldest; Jo, the high-spirited tomboy; Amy, the self-centred beauty; and gentle Beth, as well as their beloved Marmee and Father.

Together the March family must learn to endure both good times and tragedy as they share the joys and pains of growing up amidst the background of the most devastating war America has ever known.

From January 16 to January 21 next year, the playhouse will stage Noel Coward's sophisticated comedy 'Private Lives'.

Revived in 2002 by the Royal National Theatre in a production that sparkled on Broadway, Private Lives is widely regarded as one of the most entertaining plays ever written.

Elyot and Amanda, once married and now honeymooning with new spouses at the same hotel, meet by chance, reignite the old spark and impulsively elope.

After days of being reunited, they again find their fiery romance alternating between passions of love and anger.

Their aggrieved spouses appear and an assortment of attachments ensue, as the women first stick together, then move apart, and new partnerships are formed.

The original play boasted many successful Broadway runs and featured stars such as Coward himself, Laurence Olivier, Tallulah Bankhead, Gertrude Lawrence, Tammy Grimes, Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor.

All Keighley Playhouse performances begin at 7.30pm. Call the box office on 07599 890769 or e-mail boxoffice@keighleyplayhouse.co.uk for tickets.