The venue is getting back to its roots this summer as it celebrates the very best of Yorkshire literary genius with a varied selection of plays by Alan Bennett, J.B Priestley, John Godber and Alan Ayckbourn, plus some comic classics and family fun. Freetime has selected some of the most promising performances so you can plan your spring/summer shows now.

The theatre has already kicked off its season and if you missed out on the Music of The Night show first time around, don't panic as the theatre will play host to the musical extravaganza again on May 4. The night features classics from Cats, Phantom of The Opera, Miss Saigon and Les Miserables and stars Thomas Howes, of Alan Bennett's The History Boys.

And Alan Benett is making his mark this season with Talking Heads. The play has already started its run and will continue until Saturday. The Little Theatre is also presenting three new solo performances from the Yorkshire playwright including Bed Among The Lentils, a bleakly humorous story of a vicar's wife's secret life, Chip In The Sugar, a moving account of a middle-aged bachelor's life with his mother and A Woman of No Importance, a comic tale of the hospital experiences of a lonely woman.

At the end of the month you're in for a few laughs as a comic treat starts its run in the form of How's The World Treating You?, a play that traces the life of anti-hero Frank More from his 20s to his 40s in a series of funny and surreal episodes from a debutante party to a rocky marriage. The play continues its run until May 7.

Things take a more sinister twist however on May 17 with JB Priestley's Dangerous Corner. The play explores a web of lies, deceit and betrayal that is exposed at an apparently innocent dinner party. As skeletons are unearthed and marriages tested to their limits this gripping thriller is sure to have you on the edge of your seat.

As the end of May approaches, it's time for the Young Lit to dig out their dancing shoes for a performance of Flashing Images, a fusion of theatre and hip-hop. The production runs from May 29 until May 31 and uses hip hop to trace the progress of Billy, a naughty boy who needs to change. Expect to see a whole host of familiar characters including Goldilocks and the three bears.
The toe-tapping continues into June but this time it'll be the audience who is on itsfeet for The Apaches on June 3. For one night only the show stopping Cliff and The Shadows tribute band will take you rocking back to the early 60s courtesy of some of Doncaster's top musicians. The show was a sell out last year so make sure you book early to avoid disappointment.

The end of June promises a performance that is sure to be a winner with children and animal lovers alike. The 101 Dalmations starts on June 26 until June 28 featuring everyone's favourite loveable characters and the evil obsessive fur collector and dog napper Cruella de Vil who will provide plenty of opportunities for a bit of panto-style crowd participation.

And it's back to the West End again in the height of summer on July 1 for a three day run with 'Spotlight' featuring classic songs, creative costumes and something for all the family.

The season comes to an end with 'Absent Friends' an Alan Ayckbourn story providing a dissection of the middle-classes. The black comedy follows the efforts of a group of friends trying to comfort Colin who is struggling to deal with the death of his fiancee.

To ensure that you enjoy some of the best performances in town book now to avoid disappointment. Tickets and more information are available from the box office, which is open Monday to Friday 4pm to 8pm and Saturday 10am to 2pm on (01302) 340422.

And if this line-up has inspired you to explore your creative side why not go along to a social evening for members and anyone wishing to join? The events will take place on May 12, June 2 and June 30.

Alternatively The Young Lit comprises three successful youth theatre groups, ranging from year three to 13, which meet regularly throughout the season. Ring Kevin Spence on 07801430732 for more details and who knows, next summer you could be taking centre stage!