RURAL Arts is taking shows out to 43 community venues across the region to as part of its 'On Tour' scheme.

Each year the Thirsk-based charity presents its volunteers who want to bring performance to their community with a ‘menu’ to choose from, including theatre, music, dance, family performances and more.

As well as programming the work, Rural Arts publicises and subsidises performances, allowing even the smallest of communities to get a taste of nationally-acclaimed acts.

The new season includes music by Parisian folk jazz band Oh La La!, Yorkshire favourite Edwina Hayes and theatre from Northern Stage with The Hound of the Baskervilles.

On Tour manager Jo Gatenby said: “Rural touring really is the definition of a ‘good night out’.

"And by attending a performance, you’re not only supporting artists, but your local village venue and the vibrancy of our local communities.”

Ms Gatenby added: “Without volunteers, the scheme couldn’t exist. And this year, we’re in every district of North Yorkshire – and three in the Tees Valley.”

Anyone interested in joining the scheme should contact Ms Gatenby on jo@ruralarts.org.