AS AUTUMN beckons, the doors are opening on a new season of theatre, concerts, live screenings, talks, exhibitions and activities for all ages at Helmsley Arts Centre.

Celebrating a new website and its 21st year, the centre's autumn highlights include Medea from the National Theatre on September 4 and Two Gentlemen of Verona from the RSC on September 3.

Live screenings of Billy Elliot the Musical will take place on September 28 and October 4, along with the Young Vic's highly praised production of A Streetcar Named Desire starring Gillian Anderson on September 16.

Live theatre of the highest quality is represented by the young company Idle Motion, whose award-winning play about Bletchely Park, That is All You Need to Know, comes to Helmsley on September 16, while North Country Theatre presents A Month in the Country on October 17.

Children's show The Queens Knickers is a must-see for young audiences on October 10.

Talks from TV presenter Peter Snow on November 9 and wildlife cameraman David Cobham on September 19 are also part of the season, as well as folk legends Faustus, young stars Holy Moly and the Crackers and the Fitzwilliam String Quartet.

Northern Showtime's fabulous tribute to the great Frank Sinatra with their show Sensational Sinatra comes to HAC on September 26.

Artistic director Em Whitfield Brooks, said: "We have such a richly varied programme, there is definitely something for everyone this autumn.

"Whether you love top-class classical or folk music, pioneering theatre, great workshops for kids, traditional pantomime or a trip to the cinema, have a browse round our new website, and come and see us soon."

For details of all events and ticket prices go to helmsleyarts.co.uk