Shakespeare Ladies’ Club presents Secrets, Scandals and Surprises in Barnoldswick on June 10, Blackburn on June 11 and Whalley on June 12.

Set in the mid 1700s, Alison Neil performs a one-woman show playing a myriad of characters with Shakespearean flair.

Taking the role of Mary Cowper De Grey, she tells a personal tale on an epic scale.

Alongside a special guest, Mary recounts her involvement with young and ambitious would-be actor David Garrick and shows that Tudor ladies weren’t just useful for staying at home and keeping quiet.

* Scandals, Secrets and Surprises, is at The Rainhall Centre, Barnoldswick, on Friday, June 10, 01282 818250; Sacred Heart Parish Room, Billinge Avenue, Blackburn, Saturday, June 11; Whalley Abbey, Sunday, June 12, 01254 828400/822555.