st albans NOW Jan 23

It’s Still Panto Time!

Aladdin until 1st Jan A genie us festive family treat that promises to be a stunning pantomime guaranteed to make all your wishes come true.

Watersmeet Theatre WD3 1EH www.watersmeet.co.uk

Cinderella until 2nd Jan Starring Strictly Come Dancing's Joanne Clifton as the Fairy Godmother and CBeebies Mister Maker Phil Gallagher as Buttons. This promises to be the most magical pantomime ever, so don't be late for the ball!

The Grove Theatre, Dunstable LU4 5GP www.grovetheatre.co.uk

Jack & The Beanstalk until 2nd Jan A top class cast, lavish sets and hilarious jokes it promises to be Fe Fi Fo fun for the whole family oh yes it will!

The Alban Arena, St Albans AL1 3LD www.alban-arena.co.uk

Jack And The Beanstalk until 2nd Jan Join Jack and the Good Fairy as they climb the beanstalk to do battle with the Giant… it will be a Fe Fi Fo Fun show!

Royal & Derngate, Northampton NN1 1DP www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Jack and The Beanstalk until 3rd Jan With dazzling choreography, stunning sets, uplifting live music, glamourous costumes and, of course, plenty of audience participation.

Radlett Centre WD7 8HL www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs until 8th Jan

Packed with the traditional pantomime ingredients this show will be brought to life with side splitting comedy, sensational special effects and plenty of festive magic.

Milton Keynes Theatre MK9 3NZ www.atgtickets.com

Cinderella until 22nd Jan With live music, stunning sets, slick choreography and sensational costumes.

Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage SG1 1LZ www.gordon craig.co.uk

Get Your Skates On!

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland until 2nd Jan Skate on the UK’s largest open air ice rink beneath a canopy of fairy lights, enjoy live music, the Ice Kingdom, the fairground and seasonal food. www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

Skate Letchworth until 8th Jan A real ice rink on the terrace of the outdoor pool. Norton Common, Letchworth SG6 4UF www.sll.co.uk/skateletchworth

Hampton Court Palace until 8th Jan Located in front of the spectacular palace, this stunning ice rink offers everything for novices to ice skating experts. Enjoy a daytime skate, followed by a visit to the palace, or soak in the ambience of an evening session, when the historic palace is bathed in multi coloured lights. www.hrp.org.uk

Queen's House until 8th Jan Skate in the splendid surroundings of this Unesco World Heritage Site, as the magical open-air ice rink takes centre stage in the beautiful grounds of Royal Museums Greenwich. www.rmg.co.uk/queens-house

Somerset House until 15th Jan From skating lessons with Skate School, to the ultimate nightlife sets from DJs on rink side decks at Skate Lates, plus gourmet dining at the pop up alpine restaurant and for the ultimate rink-side seat, enjoy champagne and cocktails in the Skate Lounge. www.somersethouse.org.uk

Canary Wharf until 25th Feb Skate beneath Canary Wharf’s twinkling skyline, then head to the Off Piste Bar, the perfect place to warm up or cool down after skating. www.icerinkcanarywharf.co.uk

Alexandra Palace

A fun day out where you can get your skates on all year round. Show off your best moves at the disco or watch the action on the ice with mulled wine and treats in the Ice Café (until 8th Jan). www.alexandrapalace.com

Do you want to help your child cope with everyday issues, including dealing with social media, schoolwork anxieties and new friendships? If so sign up for a two week trial at Stagecoach and watch your child blossom with confidence. Our classes give children the creative courage to deal with anything that life throws at them!

Here are just some of the amazing comments from some of our parents in the past:

“It’s such a brilliant community which she’s always loved and it’s been utterly amazing for her confidence.”

“She has absolutely loved Stagecoach from the start, 9 years ago to the finish; to see her grow and develop into the confident person she has become is absolutely wonderful and I know Stagecoach has had a lot to do with that.”

“Thank you to all the teachers over her 8 years of attendance who have inspired and made her Saturday mornings so much fun. Saturdays will never be quite the same!“

“You have made such a difference to him. When I think back to how shy he was when he first started.

Stagecoach has really helped to give him the confidence to develop into who he is today.”

Call Liz at Stagecoach Harpenden on 07793 206846 or Mandy at Stagecoach St Albans on 07725 162612 now, to give your child the chance to build confidence, have oodles of fun and gain new friendships, all at the same time!

www.stagecoach.co.uk

Give your child the chance to build confidence and have oodles of fun...

Time to Get Fit

Robin Robin Adventure Trail

until 8th Jan 9am 4.30pm

Join in on the great RSPB sneak, and celebrate your inner robin, just like the young Robin in the festive musical tale, ‘Robin Robin’, now on Netflix. Complete the trail and learn to sing like a robin, find your own superpower and use your senses to connect with the robin within! Activity packs will help you complete the fun challenges along the trail as well as robin related activities to do at home and much more. Celebrate your inner Robin at the Robin Robin adventure trail. RSPB Rye Meads, Hoddesdon SG12 8JS www.rspb.org.uk

Hertford Walks

Historic Hertford 1st Jan Look back at a millennium of the rich and eventful history of Hertford on this guided walk. Starting in Salisbury Square at 11am Please book £7

The Rise and Fall of Hertford Castle 2nd Jan A guided walk exploring the castle, a fortress that became a royal palace, and learn how it shaped the town and fortunes of Hertford. Starting in Parliament Square at 11am. Please book £7 www.hertfordtownshop.co.uk

City of St Albans Tour Guide Walks

Historic St Albans 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd & 29th Jan 11.15am Ghosts and Ghouls 12th & 26th Jan 7.30pm

Please book, all walks cost £6 Meet outside St Albans Museum + Gallery www.stalbanstourguides.co.uk

Chilterns Winter 10K 7th Jan

A great 10km to kickstart your new year, taking you through the hills and woodlands of the Chilterns with some stunning views, led by local expert trail running guides. £18, all ages Mussette Café, Church Farm, Aldbury HP23 5RS www.timeoutdoors.com

Chiltern Society Organised Walks

Ashridge House 18th Jan 10.15am free

A 5.8 mile easy-paced walk around Ashridge Estate, where you’ll see huge ancient Spanish sweet chestnut trees, a WW2 tree carving made by U.S. soldiers, the pretty 14th century church of Little Gaddesden and Capability Brown's 18th century landscaping in Golden Valley. Meet in the visitors’ car park at Ashridge House HP4 1NS St Albans 25th Jan 10.15am free

A 5.5 mile easy paced walk to the picturesque hamlet of Childwick Green via Batch Wood returning on the Hertfordshire Way with views of the Ver Valley. Meet at Verulamium Museum car park AL3 4SW (parking charges apply) www.chilternsociety.org.uk

Fred Hughes 10 Mile 22nd Jan 10am

Taking place on the rolling country lanes of Bedmond, ideal for those looking to kick start their spring marathon training or make the step up from 10k. £20 - £22, age 18+ St Columbas College, St Albans AL3 4AW www.timeoutdoors.com

Winter Walk & Lunch with the Head Gardener 27th Jan 10.30am Seasonal highlights and a tour of the Swiss Garden with Sissel Dahl. Hear the story of the unique gardens and explore its secrets, chat with members of the gardening team over lunch, then enjoy the Shuttleworth Collection and Gardens at your leisure. £40 Shuttleworth, Biggleswade, Beds SG18 9DT www.shuttleworth.org

Dry January

Go alcohol free for January using Alcohol Change UK's tools and resources, which can bring many benefits but the really good stuff is under the surface

Brighter skin

Lower blood pressure

Reduced diabetes risk

Lower cholesterol

Reduced cancer related proteins in the blood

The real magic happens when Dry January is over, helping people to drink more healthily all year round. Research conducted by the University of Sussex has found that six months after taking part more than 70% of people are still drinking more healthily. On top of that, they have boosted levels of wellbeing, and much more besides. People who do Dry January by downloading the app are twice as likely to have an alcohol-free month, and to get amazing longterm benefits. Download the free Try Dry app or sign up for daily coaching emails. www.alcoholchange.org.uk

NOW for some Entertainment

Live Cinema

Berliner Philharmoniker:

New Year’s Eve Concert Live

1st Jan 3.30pm £17.30 - £18.30

With one of the world’s most acclaimed classical music orchestras. Conductor Kirill Petrenko and Tenor - Jonas Kaufmann.

André Rieu in Dublin

7th Jan 1.15pm £15.30 £16.30

André and his Johann Strauss Orchestra will delight you with romantic melodies, popular classics, party tunes and beloved waltzes, enjoy an evening of music and dance on the big screen.

Royal Opera House: Like Water for Chocolate

19th Jan 7.15pm & 22nd Jan 2pm £15.30 £16.30

A modern Mexican classic of magic realism provides the basis for The Royal Ballet’s new full length work.

Inspired by Laura Esquivel’s novel, a captivating family saga where the central character’s emotions spill out through cooking to influence everyone around her in startling and dramatic ways.

National Theatre Live: The Crucible 26th Jan 7pm £15.30 £16.30

A witch hunt is beginning in Arthur Miller’s captivating parable of power with Erin Doherty (The Crown) and Brendan Cowell (Yerma).

Raised to be seen but not heard, a group of young women in Salem suddenly find their words have an almighty power. As a climate of fear, vendetta and accusation spreads through the community, no one is safe from trial.

Campus West, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6BX www.campuswest.co.uk

The Radlett Centre

The Elvis Years - The Story of The King 7th Jan 7.30pm £27.50

An outstanding musical production which brings to the stage the incredible and compelling story of the ‘king of rock and roll’.

The Upbeat Beatles 12th Jan 7.30pm £25

The show takes you through the Fab Four’s long and winding road from the early Cavern days through Beatlemania, America, Sergeant Pepper to Abbey Road, with narrative and full multi media presentation.

Voice Of The Heart

15th Jan 7.30pm £26.50

This stunning show celebrates the music of The Carpenters, guaranteed to lead everyone through a magical memory.

The Neil Diamond Story

- The Life of a Legend in Song 19th Jan 7.30om £26

Described in Las Vegas as one of the world's finest vocal tributes to Neil Diamond, Bob Drury has been astounding audiences with his vocal likeness for many years.

Live At The Radlett 20th Jan 7.30pm £18.50 18+

With a superb line up of three fantastic comedians; the hilarious Zoe Lyons, Matt Richardson and Ian Stone.

One Night in Dublin 27th Jan 7.30pm £23.50

The Wild Murphys will set up Murphy’s Pub guaranteeing one glorious night of high energy Irish Music and more than a little bit of Irish Craic. www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Theatre Masterclasses for Adults

8th Jan, 12th Feb, 5th March & 16th April Focussing on practitioners and delivered by Acting Teacher and Director, Alex Bell. Each class will have a different focus from the fundamentals of actor training to exploring different practitioners. No experience is necessary, just a willingness to show up and play! £20 per session, please book Trestle Arts Base, St Albans AL4 0JQ www.trestle.org.uk

Bring Your Own Baby Comedy

11th Jan 11.30am

An award winning lunchtime comedy show for parents... and you can bring your baby! Featuring the funniest comedians from TV and the circuit telling their grown up jokes in a totally baby friendly environment. The show is all about you - the parents! But don't worry, younger guests are well looked after too. Buggy parking and baby changing

are provided so your baby is happy and you can relax. The bar is fully stocked, whether you fancy a cuppa or something stronger. If you need to whip out a bum (the baby's please!), a boob or a bottle then feel free. The comics won't mind being heckled by our younger guests either! £10, under 5s Watford Palace Theatre WD17 1JZ www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk

The Alban Arena 80’s Mania 13th Jan 28 chart topping artistes from the 80’s are authentically recreated to look and sound as they did back in the day with a full live band, awesome dancers, mind-blowing lasers and light design, a huge video projection and over 150 costumes!

Harry Hill 18th Jan

Back with his new all singing, all dancing one man spectacular, Harry will be joined by his famous sidekick, Stouffer the Cat.

A Luther Vandross Celebration 19th Jan The world’s premier show in celebration of ‘The Velvet Voice’, experience all the hits from his amazing career. Civic Centre, St Albans AL1 3LD www.alban-arena.co.uk

Barn Theatre

The Height of the Storm by Florian Zeller 13th - 21st Jan 8pm & 21st Jan 2.30pm Welwyn Garden City AL8 6ST www.barntheatre.co.uk

Measure for Measure

27th Jan - 4th Feb 8pm & 29th Jan 2.30pm This pared down, pacey adaptation of Shakespeare’s dark comedy, focuses on issues that resonate with us today, hypocrisy in government, morality, sexual harassment and the wider role of women….and it’s a rattling good yarn. This adaptation features comedy, word play, beautiful soliloquies and even a classic ‘bed trick’. It brings out the best of a play once described as ‘a merry, bawdy and irresistible evening’s entertainment.’ £13, £12 Abbey Theatre, St Albans AL1 2DL 01727 857861 www.abbeytheatre.org.uk

Out & About

Waddesdon Manor

Christmas in the House until 2nd Jan (excl 24th 26th Dec) See magical lights, the gardens aglow and dazzling displays inside the house.

Winter Light

6th - 22nd Jan Fri - Sun 12 noon - 7pm

Start the New Year with bright lights and sparkle, see the gardens awash with colour and dazzling light displays. Go on an enchanted journey with a light art trail, sequenced projections on the Manor’s façade, woodland lantern trail, and enjoy winter food and drink. Normal grounds admission applies www.waddesdon.org.uk

Ashridge House: Illuminated until 2nd Jan 4.30pm - 8.30pm Immersive light art installations will bring the gardens to life, taking you on a festive adventure of light and sound, with a festive food and drinks village. Dogs welcome Wednesdays from 7pm. £17.65, £11.23 www.christmas.ashridgehouse.org.uk

Christmas at Bletchley Park until 2nd Jan Step back in time and enjoy a vintage 1940s Christmas. www.bletchleypark.org.uk

A Christmas Carol Escape Room Experience

27th Dec - 4th Jan 10am 6pm (closed 1st Jan)

Pier Pressure, operator of the UK's highest quality escape rooms, comes to Hertfordshire for the first time. What better inspiration than Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol'. Bringing the characters to life in an original half escape room / half immersive theatre experience that's fun for the whole family. You’ll meet the famous ghosts of Christmas past, present and future, explore Hatfield's 18th Century restored working watermill on the River Lea and take on completing challenges and puzzles to drive the story onwards in search of the true meaning of Christmas.

www.welwyn.pierpressure.co.uk

IWM Duxford

Exhibition: Hurricane: Unsung Hero 27th Dec - 19th Feb

Celebrating one of WW2’s most hard-working fighter aircraft, the Hawker Hurricane. Often overlooked in favour of the Spitfire, the Hurricane accounted for sixty percent of air victories in the Battle of Britain. With only fourteen airworthy Hurricanes remaining in the world, get up close to seven examples, brought together under one roof for the first time.

Free with general admission Unsung Hero Tour 28th Dec - 24th Feb Wednesdays & Fridays 11.30am & 2.30pm

Join one of IWM’s expert guides for a 60 minute talk exploring the history of the Hurricane and the unique stories behind each of the aircraft on display. Go behind the ropes of the ‘Hurricane Unsung Hero’ exhibition and get even closer to these iconic aircraft. Please book £15 www.iwm.org.uk

London’s New Year’s Day Parade 1st Jan from 12 noon

Every year on New Year's Day dancers, acrobats, cheerleaders, marching bands, historic vehicles and more, assemble in the heart of the capital for a colourful celebration of contemporary performances and traditional pomp and ceremony, with huge balloons, music and confetti filling the air.

All of London’s 31 Boroughs, plus the City of Westminster are invited to enter the Parade and to demonstrate the diversity of London. All entries compete for a share of a cash prize which in recent years has been £40k. Since the first Parade in 1987, LNYDP has raised over 2 million pounds for London charities. Free Standing for general public, ticket Holders to arrive from 11am. The parade will travel via Piccadilly, Regents Street, St James’s, Pall Mall, Trafalgar Square and Whitehall. www.lnydp.com

Mill Green Museum and Mill, Hatfield AL9 5PD

Herts & Middx Wildlife Trust

Panshanger Park Jubilee Woodland Planting

6th - 9th, 11th, 13th - 15th, 18th & 20th Jan

10am & 1pm free

Help plant 17,000 trees to create a lasting memoriam to Queen Elizabeth II.

Panshanger Park, Hertford

Winter Wildfowl at Tring Reservoirs

14th Jan 11am - 1pm

A guided walk looking at some of the bird species, including Moorhens and Mallards, that call these wetlands home over the winter months. The Reserves Officers will be on hand with field ID guides and spotting scopes, or you can bring your own binoculars. Wear warm clothing and suitable footwear. All ages, suggested £5 for non members.

Tring Reservoirs HP23 4PA

Guided Walk: In Search of the Bogblutter 22nd Jan 3pm 5pm

Celebrate Hertfordshire Bittern Day on a short walk through Amwell Nature Reserve with the Trust’s, Dan Townsend and Tim Hill in search of the Bogblutter, the folk name for the Bittern, one of Britain’s rarest birds. Along the way you will also see the ducks of Amwell. The walk will be about a mile with gentle gradients, and may be muddy and uneven in places. Wear warm clothing and sturdy boots and bring a torch and binoculars if you can. For adults and older children, suggested £5 for non members. Amwell Lane, Ware SG12 9SS www.hertswildlifetrust.org.uk

Building Resilience to Climate Change in Your Community

23rd Jan 7.30pm via Zoom free

With Soroptimist Women's Group, all welcome email sistalbans@hotmail.com or call 07834 345796 www.sigbi.org/st-albans/climate

Luton Hoo Walled Garden

27th Jan 11am £7.50

Talk: Walled Garden in the 20th CenturyHighs and Lows

Please book Luton Hoo Estate, Luton LU1 4LF www.lutonhooestate.co.uk

Sustainable St Albans

How to reduce your energy use - from quick fixes to eco-renovation 9th Jan 7.30pm

Learn about the practical and environmental considerations of upgrading the efficiency of your home. Free, please book Harpenden Arms, Harpenden AL5 2TR

Climate Coaching: ‘New Year New Hope’ 30th Jan 6.30pm An interactive event to experience a collective process to support your resilience and role in responding to the planetary emergency. Free, please book St Paul's Church, St Albans AL1 4JP New Website

Offering clearer access to advice, events, expertise and services and its blog on current topics. www.sustainablestalbans.org

Geocaching at Dunstable Downs

Geocaching is an outdoor activity, where participants use GPS to hide and seek containers, called "geocaches" at specific locations marked by coordinates. There are six camouflaged hidden geocaches across the Downs, taking you to places you may not have visited before. To take part download one of the free geocache apps, such as geocaching.com. It will guide you to within a few metres of the geocache and once there, you will need to look and find it yourself. Get your free geocaching account and start hunting today! Whipsnade Road, Beds LU6 2GY www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Young Wildlife

Photographer of the Year

The display includes all photos awarded in the competition, as well as the Rising Star Portfolio and this year's two Grand Title Winners. Also included are two short films about the Grand Title images.

Tickets for the display are not required but to guarantee entry to the Museum please book a free entry ticket.

Natural History Museum, Tring HP23 6AP www.nhm.ac.uk

Big Garden Birdwatch

27th - 29th Jan

Register to take part in the world's largest garden wildlife survey, last year just under 700,000 people took part. Just spend an hour watching the birds in your garden or local park and then submit your results online. If you see very few birds or none at all, that's also useful information, register now to take part and receive a free guide to help you identify the most common garden birds.

2022 Results

Numbers in brackets are 2021 results 1 House sparrow (1) 2 Blue tit (2) 3 Starling (3) 4 Woodpigeon (5) 5 Blackbird (4) 6 Robin (6) 7 Goldfinch (8) 8 Great tit (7) 9 Magpie (9) 10 Chaffinch (11) www.rspb.org.uk

Sowing Time

It’s a perfect time to start sowing seeds in trays and pots. To make sure yours germinate and produce seedlings and then plants which thrive and grow well you will need:

- Good quality seed and cuttings compost

Seed half trays, which are about 5” x 8”

A heated propagator or a clear propagator lid to go over the trays.

A dibber to make it easy to transplant the seedlings.

Small pots to transplant the seedlings. If you buy seed and cuttings compost there's no need to sieve it as it already has a fine texture. If using multi purpose compost, you’ll need to break up any lumps or sieve it.

Depending on which seeds you choose, you will need to sow them at different depths. Once in place cover them with compost to the required depth, or for those that germinate best with

access to daylight, sew on the surface and cover with clingfilm to stop the soil drying out. Once in place put the trays in a sink or tray with about 1cm of water allowing the compost to soak it up. Then put them somewhere to allow excess water to drain off and if necessary, put the trays in a heated propagator.

When watering, use mains water as water butts can harbour organisms which cause damping off, the fatal condition where the seedlings appear to suddenly flop.

Check regularly to ensure the compost is moist. When the seedlings first appear you will see the ‘seed leaves’ which are quite sturdy and rounded in shape, above these come the first true leaves which are typical of that particular plant, it’s when these appear that its time to ‘prick’ them out.

When pricking out, handle the seedlings carefully, never by their stems or true leaves, but always by the seed leaves. Before you start, make sure the compost is moist, so the roots move easily into the pots. To avoid rotting, always transplant seedlings so they are at the same depth as in the seed tray.

If you find your seedlings have become leggy, this is usually because they’re not getting enough natural light; so move the trays onto a south or west facing windowsill, and enjoy seeing them grow. Happy Gardening!

Volunteers Needed!

Children’s literacy charity Schoolreaders is looking for more volunteers, of any age, to help spread the joy of reading to children in Hertfordshire primary schools, especially around Harpenden and St Albans, where children need the most support.

A recent survey by the National Literacy Trust (NLT) of young people revealed that reading had reached a 15 year low, especially among those from disadvantaged backgrounds and boys. Also, the Annual Literacy survey found that fewer than 1 in 2 children aged 8 to 18 enjoyed reading with only 28% reading daily. 1 in 4 children leave primary school unable to read to the expected standard, so this scheme is now more in demand than ever, particularly to help children disadvantaged after the education disruption caused by Covid. The volunteers act as trusted role models in the classroom alongside the teachers, not only helping children improve their reading but also by being a positive influence. They listen to children read once a week during term time and must commit to an academic year. Volunteers will be matched to a partner school, ready to start after a DBS check has been completed and virtual safeguarding training.

Jane Whitbread, founder of Schoolreaders, adds, “Children who leave primary school unable to read well can’t access their secondary schooling fully which will disadvantage them for life. One in seven adults have poor literacy and cannot read instructions on a medicine label or a bus timetable or fill in a job application form. Working together we can change this.

There is no substitute for face to face interaction and support when it comes to reading. Our volunteers provide a crucial supplement to classroom teaching and are welcomed by schools and the children.”

To find out more please visit www.schoolreaders.org

NOW at St Albans Museum + Gallery

Frederick Kitton

From Pickwick to Preservation until 2nd Jan Talented artist and journalist, Frederic Kitton was also an expert on Charles Dickens and published a number of books about him. After moving to St Albans, Kitton became fascinated with the historic buildings of the town, and became involved with the foundation of the County Museum. An early advocate of the heritage movement, Kitton moved from drawing the historic past of St Albans to actively trying to preserve it. This exhibition considers his time in St Albans including his work on Dickens, his illustrations of the area and his developing interest in preserving the town’s historic past.

Exhibition: Henry Moore: Drawing in the Dark 16th Dec - 16th Apr 11am 5pm

See the largest display of coalmining drawings by celebrated artist, Henry Moore. Free Invisible Threads 13th Jan - 12th March

The world around us is full of invisible threads connecting places, people and time itself. Herts Foto Forum members have each used this title to trigger their photographic response. Themes include a well worn walking route, the fraying thread of memory and connections between our past and present. Free Printing Workshop 18th Jan 12 noon 4pm

For anyone who wants to try out a new craft with textile artist Louise Green, supported by H’Arts in Mind. Free, please book Curious Crimes until Nov 23 11am 5pm

Ex offenders investigate historical Court Records from the Museum and interpret the cases through art, funded by the Building Better Opportunities Project. Free St Albans Museum + Gallery AL1 3DH www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk

NOW for some Music

The Holly Bush

4th, 11th, 18th & 25th Jan 1pm

A traditional New Orleans, Dixieland jazz band playing music from the 20's. The band members are all experienced musicians, good old jazzers, playing the classic numbers of the New Orleans tradition every Wednesday afternoon. The Holly Bush, Redbourn AL3 7DU

The Horn

Emo Night 6th Jan 9.30pm

Dust off those Converse and head out for the ultimate show of only the best 90's and 00's Emo, Pop-Punk and Nu-Metal around. DJ following band until 2am. Free, 18+ Battle of The Bands - Heat 1 10th Jan 8pm

Vote for your favourite band, alongside independent judges voting on song writing, stage presence and overall performance. The winning band will be announced on the night. £5, on the door £7

The Cureheads + Siouxsie & The Budgiees'The Story of Goth Tour' 21st Jan 9pm

Enjoy the original tribute to 'Godfathers of Goth'; The Cure, plus guest tribute bands. £15, on the door £18

Whole Lotta CD 28th Jan 9pm

An authentic representation of AC/DC, with a thundering rhythm section, the unmistakable vocals and charisma of Brian and Angus's searing lead work and naughty boy antics recreate a live AC/DC show in stunning fashion. £12, on the door £14

Skinny Living 31st Jan 8pm

Two acoustic guitars and vocal harmonies, along with exquisite and ever-so-slightly haunting vocals in the midst of it all from front man Ryan Johnston. £16, on the door £20

The Horn, Victoria Street, St Albans, AL1 3TE www.thehorn.co.uk

Amadeus Chamber Orchestra

28th Jan 7.30pm

Salieri ~ Overture to La Grotta di Trofonio Mozart ~ Piano concerto no.23 in A Beethoven ~ Symphony no.7

Soloist: Chloe Jiang (Purcell School)

Leader: Jennifer Wigram

Conductor: David Murphy. In advance £15, on the door £18, child £3 St Peter's Church, St Albans AL1 3HG www.amadeuschamberorchestra.org.uk

New Roots 2023

Closing date: 31st Jan

Final: 23rd April

This annual event is for young musicians under 25 who sing or play traditionally based music. Whether your style is traditional or contemporary folk, roots or world music, whether you perform traditional material or write your own, the organisers would love to hear from you. There is no winner and everyone in the final will have one or more performance opportunities. The aim is to match performers to opportunities at folk festivals, clubs and other events offered to New Roots finalists. To enter New Roots 2023, email your completed entry form to info@new roots.org.uk, you will then receive an email telling you how to upload up to 15 minutes of your music. www.new-roots.org.uk

NOW at the Cathedral

New Year Concert

2nd Jan 7pm £5 £30

With St Albans Symphony Orchestra

Tchaikovsky: ballet music from The Nutcracker

Saint Saens: Dance Macabre

Herold arr. Lanchbery: La fille mal gardée Clog Dance

Copland: Appalachian Spring

Márquez: Danzón No. 2

Chaminade: Callirhoë Suite

Strauss: Frühlingsstimmen Waltz

Eucharist on New Year's Day 10am

A combination of the usual Sunday morning services.

IOF Concert: Daniel Moult

14th Jan 5.30pm

All are welcome to this free Organ Concert, with donations going towards the International Organ Festival Society.

JS Bach Toccata in C (BWV 566a)

GF Handel A flight of angels WA Mozart Fantasia in F minor (K608)

Robert Schumann Canonic Study No. 4

Edward Elgar Sonata (op.28)

Eric Lebrun Ma princesse

Marcel Dupre Prelude & Fugue in B major, op.7 no.1

Organ Concert

18th Jan 12.30pm free

With Miriam Reveley, Organ Scholar from St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle. Retiring collection in aid of Cathedral music funds.

Abbey by Night

18th Jan 8pm

Be transported back in time to the medieval abbey as you encounter the fantastic stories of the past by candlelight. As darkness descends, meet both monks and pilgrims to whom this great abbey was once home. See, hear, feel and even smell the inspiring tales these men and women have to tell. Upon entrance to the building, expect clouds of incense, the sounds of monk’s music, and the hustle and bustle of a lively

medieval abbey at work as time rewinds several centuries. £18, please book, includes a glass of wine. Age 12+ Burns Supper & Ceilidh 21st Jan 7pm

A traditional burns supper including the piping in of the haggis, a main course of haggis, neeps and tatties, and a dance with an excellent ceilidh band. Tables of 10 people £400, includes a welcome drink, a 3 course meal and a dram of whisky to toast the haggis. This event is raising funds for Youth Talk, a local charity, which provides free, confidential counselling to 13-25 year olds in St Albans and surrounding areas. Be a Chorister for a Day 28th Jan 1pm

An opportunity for girls aged 7-9 to experience what life is like as a Chorister at St Albans Cathedral. The day will include fun musical games, the chance to learn new songs and an opportunity to meet the current Choristers. The afternoon will end with everyone singing at Evensong starting at 4pm, with the Cathedral Girls Choir. Please book In a Strange Land 28th Jan 7.30pm

An evening of poetry and music, combining the music of the world renowned classical singing ensemble, Stile Antico and oud player Rihab Azar, interwoven with the poetry of Lemn Sissay. The compositions will tell the story of travel, asylum and seeking safety and identity. Please book, £30 £10

Volunteering

Over 600 volunteers keep the Cathedral running day to day and are a vital part of the organisation, so why not join them, there are many reasons to volunteer including:

Contributing to the community

Gaining experience

Meeting people

Preserving the Cathedral for future generations There are many ways to volunteer including:

Bell ringing

Welcoming visitors

Flower arranging

Parish Singers

Parish Orchestra

Textile Guild

Youth work

Concert stewarding

Helping at Cathedral services

Cathedral Guides

If you are interested in volunteering, please email volunteers@stalbanscathedral.org St Albans Cathedral, Sumpter Yard AL1 1BY www.stalbanscathedral.org

Caring & Sharing

St Francis Hospice

Christmas Tree Collections

7th 9th Jan

Teams of volunteers will be collecting and recycling Christmas trees this January, from the following postcodes: Harpenden - AL5 St Albans AL1, AL3 and AL4 Please book online and then leave your tree outside ready for collection on the evening of 6th January, you don't need to be in on the day! The Hospice welcomes a donation for the collection, over the last 5 years the initiative has raised over £70k to help the Hospice to be there for people in the community when they need help. You can also volunteer to help as a van driver or tree collector, for further information call 01442 869555.

www.stfrancis.org.uk

Brew Monday

16th Jan Samaritans is reminding everyone to reach out for a cuppa and a catch-up with the people you care about.

The third Monday in January is sometimes referred to as ‘the most difficult day of the year’ but this is a myth. At Samaritans they know there’s no such thing as ‘Blue Monday’, we all have our good days and our bad days, and those aren’t for the calendar to decide. So it's time to stop this myth and instead start a conversation over a brew!

Reach out and connect with family, friends, colleagues and loved ones, and don’t forget, you can use your get together to raise money for Samaritans, you'll be helping to give people having a tough time somewhere to turn when they need to talk. Just £5 can help us answer a call for help. www.samaritans.org

London Winter Walk

28th & 29th Jan Walk off the Christmas

celebrations, and kick start your New Year fitness regime! You can take part in a Full Marathon, Half Marathon or 10K, all starting and finishing at The Oval Cricket Ground. Take in highlights of the Thames, its historic bridges and many of the Capital’s key landmarks. Families are welcome, there’s a free winter bobble hat and neck buff, rest stops with snacks, and a medal and hot food at the finish. Sign up today for this fun and energising New Year walk to support the charity of your choice. www.ultrachallenge.com

RED January

A nationwide movement for mental wellbeing, led by the community, for the community. Join thousands of people this January by moving every day, to beat the winter blues away. Sign up for free, then download and set your movement goal. Whether you run, swim, cycle or choose your favourite fitness activity - the choice is yours. Set a fundraising target and go the extra mile for everyone experiencing mental health challenges, by raising funds for Sport in Mind. www.redtogether.co.uk

Save your Stamps for RNIB

Collect stamps for RNIB and make a difference to blind and partially sighted people. All stamps new or used, first day covers, presentation packs or albums are accepted. Stamps are sold by weight, and the RNIB receive £20 per kilo of stamps so it's a brilliant way to raise money. Just go to the website and request a pre paid envelope or box for your stamps. www.rnib.org.uk

Could you be a Health Walk Leader?

Volunteer as a Health Walk Leader and make new friends, give back to your community, help others get active and reap the health and wellbeing benefits walking has to offer. You will need to make walkers feel welcome and safe, and research and plan some routes. Walks are between 10 90 minutes, and you can lead as often as you like. No previous experience is needed as training will be given, and you will be paired with more experienced leaders and given time to learn existing routes. There are also opportunities to support the scheme with administration, publicity and community engagement. For more information visit the website or call 01992 588433. www.hertfordshire.gov.uk

Index of Businesses

Gardening

Future Nature 11 Healthcare Spire Harpenden Hospital 20 & 21

Hearing Services Hearing Healthcare Practice 6

Locksmiths Lock Around the Clock Locksmith Services 26 27

Loft Ladders Access4Lofts Home Counties Loft Ladders 25 17

Painters & Decorators CB Decorators M & M Decorators 31 31 Pest Control The Verminator 22 Plasterer Jason Moffat 31 Plumber DJ&M Plumbing Services Ltd 13 & 35 Property Maintenance The 50 Plus 8 Recruitment Visiting Angels 7 Roofing GJ Smith Roofing 25 Shutters The Harpenden Shutter Company 15 Soft Furnishings Sue Smyth 15 Tree Surgeons Fircroft Tree Surgery Ltd 11 Windows & Doors Cloud 9 Kings Windows 33 33