The poignant tale of a forgotten music hall hero, written and performed by Tony Liddington, comes to the Old Courthouse, Thirsk on April 25. Dan Leno was the most famous and highly paid music hall artist of the Victorian age, but ended his life in an asylum aged 43. Billed as The Funniest Man on Earth, he created the role of the pantomime dame and is credited with the invention of stand-up comedy.

Tony Liddington's biographical show, which was broadcast on BBC Radio Four last year, is set in Baldwyn's Park Asylum where the character of Dan Leno looks back over his career. An accompanying exhibition, including information, images and original artefacts from Tony Lidington's personal collection, gives an insight into the history of music hall and pantomime and how the genres evolved. A specially produced CD-ROM, with links to educational attainment targets and key skills, will be on sale, making Dan Leno an ideally resourced trip for secondary school students as well as those with a general interest in the history of theatre.

Dan Leno, the King's Jester is also touring to community venues at Glaisdale, Scruton, Danby and Carleton as part of the Rural Arts On Tour scheme.