Seven new bands will take to the stage of the Mart Theatre, Skipton, today.

It is the culmination of the theatre’s schools project, which allows students to work with musicians.

Since February there have been after-school workshops where youngsters have developed their skills.

So far, seven bands have been formed from the three schools – Skipton Girls’ High, South Craven and Upper Wharfedale – and they will give their first performance tonight. It has been funded by Awards for All and Rural Youth Cafes Project.

Anthea Rathlin-Jones, the mart’s arts development director, said: “The Mart Theatre is delighted to have been able to work with North Yorkshire CYC (Connecting Youth Culture) which has supported this project with their provision of instruments and equipment. To round off the whole experience, all the bands have had the opportunity to cut their own CD on CYC’s recording equipment.”

Tickets for the 7pm concert are free from (01756) 708011.