WHETHER it's comedy sketches, tales of the unknown in South America or tributes to the human spirit, the new season at the Brewery promises to be a fascinating one - offering plenty of variety for those seeking to try something new, writes Andrew Daniels.

September swings into action with the arrival of world-famous Cambridge Footlights presenting Beyond A Joke (tonight, Friday), pushing the boundaries of comedy to make even the most ordinary situations seem hilarious. Featuring Sarah Solemani, fresh from television and film appearances, they tell a story of how severe weather in Britain goes beyond a joke something that many people can relate to this summer.

For theatre-goers the same month also offers a celebration of courage and hardship in Oh What A Lovely War (September 16-18). Using song, music and dance from Edwardian times it has become one of the classics of modern British Theatre, demonstrating the power of the human spirit.

Tomorrow (Saturday) there is the return of Simon Yates, speaking about his mountaineering exploits in South America. With his visual presentation you can join Simon as he conquers the rarely visited peaks of Tierra del Fuego, enjoy views of snow-capped mountains and tackle the wind-blasted rock towers of Patagonia.

Those wishing to relax to the sound of Beethoven can be wowed by pianist Martin Sturfalt who will be in Kendal on September 8. Martin has performed all over the world since the age of 11 and recently won the UK Yamaha competition.

Shakespeare fans are in for a treat in October with The Tempest (October 4-6) and the Shakespeare Schools Festival (October 11-14) while Philip Edwards will be holding three lectures to explore the mysterious and fanciful world of Shakespeare's final plays.

Feminism will be one of the topics for discussion when author Germaine Greer visits the Brewery for an evening discussion that promises to be highly entertaining (November 14).

As always the Christmas Pantomime finishes the season on a high. Starting on December 9 the Brewery will present a magical tale of love and adventure in Aladdin.

For further information about these and all other shows, contact the Brewery Box Office on 01539-75133.