Cheshire Rural Touring Arts (CRTA) returns this spring with a diverse range of shows lined up.

Kicking off the series is 'Up and Away', an interactive family-friendly show combining words, puppetry, and physical theatre.

In a celebration of hope and dreaming the impossible, guests can join Tmesis Theatre on an exciting journey into the discovery of flight, traveling all the way back to 1827, to witness the hot air balloon mission of the mysterious Brown Brothers.

It will show at Hoole Community Centre on Saturday 6 April and is suitable for children under eleven.

At Vicars Cross Community Centre on Saturday 31 May, award-winning comedian, broadcaster and author Robin Ince will showcase an evening of heartfelt stories, poetry and humour.

'The Universe and the Neurodiverse' will explore mental health, creativity and "what it means to embrace uniqueness".

It is suitable for audiences aged 14 and over.

Image of dancers from Lila Dance performing in the show 'Fault Lines' (Image via: Dougie Evans)

On Saturday 3 May, Lila Dance will showcase 'Fault Lines' at Vicars Cross Community Centre.

Through dance, digital illustrations and evocative music, survivors emerge from scorched earth, rubble and ruin to a new world - in a show which explores human's relationship with nature.

Hoole Community Centre will host 'Helios' on Friday 30 May, for a story about the son of the sun god, Helios.

Transplanting the Ancient Greek tale into a modern-day myth situated in rural England, it's a story about life and "the little things that leave big marks".

It will open on Friday 30 May, staged by Wright&Grainger and is best suited for audiences aged 14 and up.

Cheshire Rural Touring Arts is a partnership between Cheshire East and Cheshire West and Chester Council, supported by Arts Council England.

A representative for CRTA said: "If you fancy an entertaining, social, affordable night (or afternoon) out that's on your doorstep, come along.

"A massive thank you to all our volunteer community promoters who select and host these shows and provide a warm welcome to all audiences across Cheshire in village halls, community centres, libraries and other community venues."

Cllr Sheila Little added: "CRTA is a brilliant asset to Cheshire.

"In this climate it can be expensive to get out to see shows in Manchester, Liverpool, and Chester.

"With CRTA you can get along to your local village hall, socialise with your neighbours and enjoy a fabulous high-quality professional show – selected and hosted locally by you, for you."

Performance details and online booking is available on the CRTA website here.