Shropshire What's On December 2022

News from around the region

Hit show The Bodyguard back in the Midlands

Hit musical The Bodyguard is returning to the Midlands in the new year.

Based on the Kevin Costner/Whitney Houston film of the same name, the show stars Emmerdale and Hollyoaks favourite Ayden Callaghan and former Pussycat Doll Melody Thornton in the lead roles.

The production stops off at the Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, from 27 February to 4 March and Wolverhampton Grand Theatre from 9 to 13 May.

For further information and to book tickets, visit: thebodyguardmusical.com

The best of Disney at 100 at Resorts World Arena

A concert celebrating a centenary of Disney is making a pit-stop in Birmingham next summer as part of a nationwide tour. Disney 100 - The Concert will feature ‘legendary film scenes on giant screens’ and ‘magical musical moments’ brought to life by the Hollywood Sound Orchestra and yet-tobe-announced ‘star soloists’. Tickets for the Resorts World Arena show on Tuesday 6 June can be purchased at theticketfactory.com

Local film festival seeks independent filmmakers

An annual film event in Stratford-upon-Avon is looking for short films from local filmmakers across the West Midlands. Run by not-for-profit arts organisation Live & Local, Big Picture Festival will next year (2528 May) take the theme of ‘one world, many stories’, showcasing ‘the best of humanity, the beauty of our world and the keys to wellbeing’.

The event is particularly looking for submissions from diverse and disabled filmmakers... To find out more about the festival, visit liveandlocal.org.uk

Lesley Garrett to star in tour of My Fair

Lady

Britain’s best-known soprano, Lesley Garrett, will appear in a new touring version of My Fair Lady when it stops off at Birmingham Hippodrome next spring (Wednesday 8Sunday 19 March).

Madness in the forest

Following on from their sold-out Forest Live performances last summer, Madness have announced a Midlands date for the 2023 edition of the annual concert series presented by Forestry England.

The band will play Cannock Chase Forest on Thursday 8 June, performing a selection of hits including Baggy Trousers, It Must Be Love, House Of Fun, Driving In My Car, Our House and Wings Of A Dove. To purchase tickets, visit forestryengland.uk

Lesley joins a cast which also includes Michael D Xavier as Henry Higgins, Charlotte Kennedy as Eliza Doolittle and former EastEnder Adam Woodyatt as Alfred P Doolittle. For more information and to book tickets, visit birminghamhippodrome.com

Television favourites to star in hit stage show

Television favourites Paul Nicholas (pictured), Ruth Maddoc and Tessa PeakeJones will visit three major Midlands theatres next year in the stage adaptation of The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. The feelgood comedy, based on the hit film of the same name, stops off at Shrewsbury’s Theatre Severn (14 - 18 March) and the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre (28 March - 1 April). For more information and to book your seat, visit marigoldshow.com

Join the Bah Humbug Club at Lichfield Garrick

Alongside its pantomime production of Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs, Lichfield Garrick is this month also presenting a brand-new comedy play for Christmas. The Bah Humbug Club has been written by local writer Carolyn Scott-Jeffs and promises ‘laughs, a few tears and a bit of nostalgialike all the best Christmases’. The show runs at the venue from Thursday 8 to Tuesday 27 December. For more information and to book tickets, visit lichfieldgarrick.com

Queen of Country takes Queen Of Me tour to Brum

Five-time Grammy Awardwinning Shania Twain will visit Birmingham’s Utilita Arena next autumn (26 September) as part of a UK & Ireland tour. The countrymusic legend will make a stop-off at the venue to perform a concert in support of her soon-to-be-released album, Queen Of Me. For more information, visit theticketfactory.com

Gorka & Karen bring Firedance

to Midlands

Strictly stars Karen Hauer and Gorka Marquez will make a welcome return to Birmingham next spring with a show that promises ‘sizzling dancers, mesmerising fire specialists, a sensational live band and super-charged choreography’.

Titled Firedance, the production is a ‘captivating dance-off’ inspired by Romeo & Juliet, Moulin Rouge, Carmen and West Side Story. The show visits the city’s Symphony Hall on 31 March. For more information and to book tickets, check out the venue’s website: bmusic.co.uk

Shropshire Kids Festival will return to Telford International Centre on Saturday 18 & Sunday 19 February.

The popular event is designed for children aged up to 12 and will bring together hundreds of

indoor activities to keep youngsters entertained during the half-term holiday. New for 2023 is a dedicated under-fives hall, allowing little ones to enjoy time away from the older kids. To find out more, visit shropshirefestivals.co.uk

Catch it while you can...

If you haven’t yet checked out the Wildlife Photographer Of The Year show at Wolverhampton Art Gallery, you have until Christmas Eve to do so.

The hugely prestigious exhibition - visiting the Midlands as part of a UK tour - features a host of awe-inspiring images capturing fascinating animal behaviour and breathtaking landscapes. The photos included in the show have been selected from thousands of submissions, with photographers from no fewer than 93 countries taking part.

Alfie Boe to visit the region on UK tour

Alfie Boe has announced a nationwide UK tour for autumn 2023, including a date at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall. The much-loved tenor will perform at the venue on Saturday 14 October.

For further information and to book tickets, visit ticketmaster.co.uk

Shropshire Kids Festival to return to Telford venue

News from around the region

EastEnders star joins National Theatre cast

EastEnders star Charlie Brooks will join the cast for the National Theatre production of The Ocean At The End Of The Lane when it visits Birmingham theatre The Alexandra next spring (23 - 27 May).

Charlie, who plays the character of Janine Butcher in the BBC soap, will take the role of Ursula in the stage adaptation of Neil Gaman’s award-winning novel.

For more information and tickets, visit atgtickets.com/birmingham

Grimethorpe Colliery Band at the cathedral

The famous Grimethorpe Colliery Band will this month perform in Lichfield Cathedral.

The band became a Lichfield Festival associate artist last year and will be presenting a selection of Christmas favourites at the cathedral on Sunday 4 December. To find out more and purchase tickets, visit lichfieldfestival.org

Bastille at the castle

Pop band Bastille will next summer celebrate the 10th anniversary of their chart-topping debut release, Bad Blood, by performing the album in its entirety at Ludlow Castle (Sunday 23 July). Tickets for the show are now on sale and can be purchased via bastillebastille.com

Frida Kahlo exhibition on show at Coventry gallery

Coventry gallery The Reel Store is currently hosting an award-winning exhibition celebrating the life and work of iconic Mexican painter Frida Kahlo (until 29 January).

Visiting the Midlands fresh from a sell-out run in Madrid, the show invites visitors to explore the artist not only as a painter but also as a woman and an icon.

Commenting on the exhibition, its artistic director, Carla Prat, said: “This is the

Early December ‘festive fun runs’ in Shropshire

Shropshire is hosting two big charity fun runs on the first Sunday of this month (4 December).

Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s everpopular Festive Fun Run returns to Telford Town Park, with participants able to choose either a 2km or a 5km route. Visit midlandsairambulance.com to find out more.

Meanwhile, in Oswestry, Adrenaline Sporting Events will host the 5k Shropshire Santa Run, to raise funds for cancer charity Lingen Davies.

For further information about the event, visit adrenalinesportingevents.co.uk

Petition raised to save Wolverhampton venue

The marketing manager of Wolverhampton’s much-loved Light House Cinema has set up a petition in a bid to “resuscitate the creative

culmination of a long artistic and academic exercise to move away from the usual narrative of pain/victim and towards one of resilience, courage, female empowerment and genius.

“The truth is, despite the many biopics and books about Frida Kahlo, there remains much to learn and remember about her and her paintings. This exhibition screams: This is what I felt. This is how I thought. This is how I was. Remember me!”

heartbeat of our city” after financial issues saw the venue close its doors last month. Anybody interested in adding their name to the petition should visit: change.org/p/savelight-house-wolverhampton

New date for Birmingham International Tattoo

Birmingham International Tattoo will return early in the new year, having been postponed in September following the death of Her Majesty The Queen. Taking place at the city’s Resorts World Arena on Saturday 11 & Sunday 12 February, the Tattoo will feature a special tribute to the Queen and also mark the accession of King Charles III to the throne. For more information and to book tickets for the event, visit resortsworldarena.co.uk

News from around the region

Hit West End musical Heathers will be stopping off at Birmingham theatre The Alexandra in the spring. Described by its publicity as a ‘high octane, black comedy, rock musical’ the show is

Line-up announced for Camp Bestival event

Mischief, mayhem and music will return to Weston Park in late summer 2023, courtesy of Camp Bestival Shropshire. Taking place at the venue from 17 to 20 August, the event will feature a stellar lineup of music acts, including headline performers Primal Scream, Rudimental and The Human League. The festival will also showcase a theme-free fancy-dress party, an impressive array of family entertainment, a ‘cornucopia’ of wellness activities and a firework ‘extravaganza’... To check out the event’s full line-up and grab yourself a ticket, visit shropshire.campbestival.net

based on the cult teen movie of the same name starring Winona Ryder and Christian Slater... The production visits the Alex from 16 to 20 May. For more information and tickets, visit atgtickets.com/birmingham

Lord’s Taverners, the club has been running a series of indoor sessions at Shrewsbury School Sports Hall for young people with physical disabilities. For more information about Shelton CC, contact Tyler Ibbotson on tyler.ibbotson@shropshirecricketboard.co.uk

Schoolgirl runner funds replica Chinese Bridge at Stoke’s Biddulph Grange

A Staffordshire schoolgirl has raised almost £1,400 by running 52 miles - the equivalent of the London and New York marathons.

Mia Hearson undertook the challenge - at the age of 10 - to help fund the building of a replica Chinese Bridge at National Trust property Biddulph Grange Garden in Stokeon-Trent.

World famous basketball giants trot into the region

The Harlem Globetrotters are coming to the Midlands.

The world-famous basketball team - who have been showcasing their talents for 96 years - will stop off at Utilita Arena

Birmingham on 29 April as part of a world tour. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit theticketfactory.com

Howzat! It’s ‘cricket for all’ at Shropshire club

Shelton Cricket Club has become an ECB Disability Champion Club.

In partnership with Cricket Shropshire and

The ornate red, green & yellow footbridgefirst built in the mid-19th century - is a key feature of the venue’s China garden, one of a series of garden ‘rooms’ that take visitors to Biddulph Grange on a global journey. Commenting on her achievement, Miawho’s now 12 - said: “I remember going on this bridge since I was little. It’s something now that, when I look at it, I can think, ‘I’ve helped make this possible.’”

Birmingham Rep theatre announces spring season

Birmingham Repertory Theatre’s spring/summer season will include a brandnew production of the stage adaptation of John Steinbeck’s classic novel, Of Mice And Men.

The show is one of numerous highlights in a programme that also features the return of Rush: A Joyous Jamaican Journey, a new adaptation of Christy Lefteri’s bestselling novel, The Beekeeper Of Aleppo, and the Olivier Award-winning Pride And Prejudice* (*sort of).

To find out more about The Rep’s 2023 lineup of shows, visit birmingham-rep.co.uk

Gabrielle to play The Civic at The Halls next autumn

Gabrielle will tour to the Midlands next autumn to celebrate the 30th anniversary of her era-defining smash-hit single, Dreams.

Commenting on the news, the London-born singer-songwriter said: “I can’t wait to party with everyone and celebrate the record that launched my career three decades ago! Time sure does fly when you’re having fun!”

Gabrielle’s 30 Years Of Dreaming tour visits Wolverhampton’s The Civic at The Halls on 28 October. To check out ticket availability, visit ticketmaster.co.uk

Heathers The Musical coming to the Midlands in 2023

FESTIVE PUN

Paul Hendy talks all things panto - oh yes he does...

Readers of a certain vintage may remember Paul Hendy from his days presenting The Disney Club, Wheel Of Fortune and Don’t Try This At Home. These days you’ll find him heading up Evolution Productions, a company he set up with his wife, Emily Wood, in 2005, and one which produces some of the country’s finest pantomimes - two of which you can catch here in the West Midlands this very month: Beauty And The Beast at Shrewsbury’s Theatre Severn and Snow White at Lichfield Garrick. What’s On recently caught up with Paul to find out more about the man behind the pun...

How did Evolution Productions come into existence, Paul?

I was a performer for years, and Emily’s father was a producer who I worked for a couple of times. I started writing and directing the pantomimes for him, and then, eventually, Emily and I had the opportunity to buy the company. When we started, we were producing three pantomimes, and we’re now producing 11. I can’t believe we’ve been going for 17 years!

What’s your own story in terms of pantomime?

I first saw pantomime at the Wolverhampton Grand - where we’re now co-producing, which I’m so excited about. I remember loving everything about it: the audience participation, the songs, the dancing - and, of course, the comedy!

Can you recall Evolution’s first-ever pantomime?

One of the first shows we produced was Cinderella at the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury in 2005, with Sheila Ferguson from The Three Degrees. I think we learned a lot about producing on that show. I think maybe a lot of people don’t realise what a producer does. We take the financial risk on the show, and we’re responsible for everything, from the creative side - casting, sets, costumes, music, lighting, sound, the design of the posters etc - to the financial side - the budget etc. We have an incredible team who help us make sure that everything works.

Which ‘ingredient’ of an Evolution pantomime do you enjoy the most?

I’m a huge fan of comedy, so it’s the comedy slosh scenes - the messy scenes - which really stay in my memory. I’m also really proud of our ‘pun routines’.

What’s been the biggest on-stage disaster you’ve had to deal with?

We had a ‘crazy bathroom’, which was a comedy routine with two tons of water. I’m sure you can imagine what went wrong… In one performance, it totally flooded the stage of the Lyceum Theatre in Sheffield. The audience thought it was part of the show!

The Daily Mail has included three of your shows in its list of the top-10 pantomimes, and an Evolution show won the coveted Pantomime of the Year gong at the Great British Pantomime Awards in 2017, ’18, ’20 and ’22. What makes an Evolution production so special and different from other pantos?

Our pantomimes are big and spectacular West End-style productions, and we really care about the quality of our shows. I work very hard on making sure the scripts appeal to all ages - I make sure there is something for everyone. There’s nothing I love more than seeing a family of two or three generations laughing at the same jokes.

Which is your favourite traditional pantomime story?

I love them all, but I think my favourites are Jack And The Beanstalk and Snow White. They’re very different, but both have strong

stories with lots of scope for comedy.

What do you particularly enjoy about staging pantomimes in Lichfield and Shrewsbury, as you’re once again doing this year?

The audiences! Both theatres have great audiences who love to really enjoy themselves!

Both Lichfield Garrick and Shrewsbury’s Theatre Severn have much-loved damesSam Rabone and Brad Fitt - who’ve been starring in Evolution pantos for many a year. What do you think makes Sam and Brad so popular with their respective audiences?

Well, firstly, they’re both great entertainers and naturally very funny - and very niceblokes! But I think equally important is the fact that they really connect with the audiences.

Rabone versus Fitt, in costume, in a custard-pie fight - what’s the outcome?

Oh, that’s a tricky one. They both love their slosh routines, so I’d pay good money to see it, but I would have to say it would probably be a draw!

Evolution Productions bring Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs to Lichfield Garrick from Fri 25 November to Sun 8 January and Beauty And The Beast to Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, from Wed 30 November to Sun 8 January

hencote.com

Offering a restaurant, glamping pods (with hot tub!) and picturesque views of the Shropshire countryside, Hencote should be on everyone’s ‘to visit’ list.

Guests have the opportunity not only to revel in the majesty of their surroundings, but also to enjoy one of the venue’s popular vineyard or winter tours.

Running Friday to Sunday, each tour is followed by the chance to sample a range of Hencote wines.

Located in the heart of Lichfield, Upstairs By Tom Shepherd is Staffordshire’s first and only One Michelin-star restaurant. Specialising in flavour-led, produce-driven contemporary British fine dining, the venue’s offer includes a seven-course tasting menu and a four-course lunch menu.

Gift vouchers are available to purchase from the website.

Trust us, this is a restaurant that every food fanatic should make sure they visit.

If you have family and/or friends who can’t visit The Beefy Boys’ restaurants in either Shrewsbury or Hereford, why not send a DIY kit direct to their door, so that they too can experience some Beefy goodness!

Boxes range in size and feature burger patties, flat iron steak, roast tomato & garlic mayo, seasoning, cheese, buns and Chimichurri. Also available are the Boys’ very own bottled sauces, including Butty Bach BBQ and a range of hot options.

Introducing Shropshire Hamper Company... celebrating all things, yes, you guessed it, Shropshire! The team at the award-winning Shropshire Festivals has brought together a tasty selection of sought-after gifts and produce in a range of perfectly presented gift hampers.

Delicious goodies include beer, wine, oil, jam, cake, cheese, crisps, pate, chutney, nuts and soft drinks, all of which have been provided by small local producers.

Bostin’ Bakery makes indulgent, homebaked cookies, delivered straight from the Black Country to your front door.

Customers can build their own box from a menu of more than 10 cookies, including chilli chocolate fondant, raspberry oreo, mango & white chocolate, golden biscoff, cherry bakewell and Kinder Bueno.

Vegan, Christmas and mystery boxes are also available.

Michelin-star chef Aktar Islam created freezable curry boxes during lockdown. Due to their popularity, they’re now available on a permanent basis.

Garnering exclusively five-star reviews, the boxes feature a selection of high-quality freezable curries, tandoori and sides and are delivered straight to your door.

A number of specials, including smoked leg of lamb, are also available. Cooking instructions for each dish are provided.

Classical music from across the region...

BBC Philharmonic Orchestra

Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Trent, Fri 2 December

Residing at the Corporation’s Manchester home of Media City in Salford Quays, the BBC Philharmonic is no stranger to Stokeon-Trent, regularly presenting Victoria Hall concert-goers with works from its impressive repertoire.

This latest visit to the Potteries sees Finnish conductor John Storgårds (pictured) leading the orchestra in a programme that features Beethoven’s Prometheus Overture and Piano Concerto No5 (The Emperor), and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No4.

Ex Cathedra:

Christmas Music By

Candlelight

St Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury, Fri 2 December; Hereford Cathedral, Wed 7 December; Kidderminster Town Hall, Thurs 8 December; St Peter’s Collegiate Church, Wolverhampton, Sat 10 December; St Paul’s Church, Birmingham, Mon 19 - Fri 23 December

What better way can there be to get into the Christmas spirit than by enjoying a concert by one of the country’s finest choral music ensembles?

Under the directorship of its founder, Jeffrey Skidmore, Ex Cathedra is this month making a significant contribution to Midlands-based classical music lovers’ sense of festive cheer. The choir’s atmospheric Christmas Music

By Candlelight evenings blend seasonal favourites from around the globe and across the ages with a variety of readings... December also sees the ensemble performing Bach’s Christmas Oratorio (Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Sunday the 4th) - a work widely considered to be the most confident and optimistic statement of Christian belief in the choral repertoire.

A CBSO Choral Christmas With Alan Titchmarsh

Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Thurs 15 & Fri 16 December

The soloist is Martin Roscoe.

Il Divo

Utilita Arena Birmingham, Thurs 8 December

Crossover favourites Il Divo were X Factor guru Simon Cowell’s attempt to take opera to the masses, albeit pop-opera. Presenting a romantic and timeless repertoire which has seen them garner a worldwide fanbase since bursting onto the scene 18 years ago, the group is still in recovery after the tragic Covid-19 death last Christmas of original member Carlos Marin at the age of 53. His place in the quartet was taken by 34-year-old American baritone Steven LaBrie.

The city’s highly acclaimed symphony orchestra and one of television’s most popular presenters is surely a match made in heaven when it comes to providing an evening of Christmas cheer. The City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra are joined by CBSO Choruses as Alan Titchmarsh (pictured) presents a selection of ‘traditional carols, festive tunes, new Christmas classics, and even the chance to sing along’. Simon Halsey is the man with the festive baton.

Piccadilly Sinfonietta: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons At Christmas

Shrewsbury Abbey, Tues 6 December

Piccadilly Sinfonietta may be only five years old, but the ensemble has already established an impressive reputation for its performances of baroque and classical works for chamber orchestra.

This festive-season presentation of Antonio Vivaldi’s best-loved baroque concerto takes place by candlelight. The programme also includes Pachelbel’s Canon in D Major, Corelli’s Christmas Concerto and Chopin’s Piano Concerto No2 in F minor.

Live music from across the region...

Tony Christie & Ranagri

Lichfield Guildhall, Sat 10 December

It’s no mean feat to chalk up a half-century in showbusiness, as Tony Christie did not so long ago. It’s an achievement that speaks volumes not only for his depth of talent but also his ability to adapt to the ever-changing demands of the music industry.

The Yorkshire-born singer’s glory years were in the early 1970s, when hits like (Is This The Way To) Amarillo and I Did What I Did For Maria - as well as Avenues And Alleyways, the theme tune to Robert Vaughn’s hit television series, The Protectors - catapulted him to international stardom. Decades later, Peter Kay’s Comic Relief rendition of Amarillo played its part in introducing Tony’s music to a whole new generation. With his 80th birthday on the not-too-distant horizon, he here teams up with acclaimed crossover folk band Ranagri, with whom he’s released two albums of music from the great Irish songbook.

Bella Hardy

The Hive, Shrewsbury, Sun 11 December

Thirty-eight-year-old one-time BBC Radio Two Folk Singer Of The Year Bella Hardy has certainly crammed in a lot of living since debuting as a self-taught ‘fiddle singer’aged 13 - at Cambridge and Sidmouth music festivals. In the years which have followed,

Skinny Lister

KK’s Steel Mill, Wolverhampton, Thurs 15 December

Jim Causley

Newhampton Arts Centre, Wolverhampton, Sat 17 December

Medieval and secular carols from around the British Isles, and lesser-known Christmas songs from the West Country, will very much be the name of Jim Causley’s festive game when he visits Wolverhampton this month. And that’s not all; Jim also wants it known that he’ll be working plenty of other yuletide entertainments into his show too, including his own settings of Christmas poems written by a dearly departed Cornish relative. A selection of ‘songs of over-indulgence’ and the odd spot of good old-fashioned panto fun will also feature...

From ska to rock and folk-punk to traditional shanty, Skinny Lister blend together a wide range of genres, along the way presenting their sound and story in an all-guns-blazing style that’s seen them garner praise from right across the music universe. They visit Wolverhampton in support of their 12-track fifth album, A Matter Of Life & Love, released last year to great critical acclaim.

The Urban Voodoo Machine

The Robin, Bilston, Thurs 1 December “We’re not Americana and we’re definitely not ‘retro’,” says Paul-Ronney Angel, the founder of The Urban Voodoo Machine, a band once described by Classic Rock as ‘drawing deep from a dirty well where Tom Waits, Nick Cave and Dick Dale are enjoying a burlesque all-nighter with Ennio Morricone’.

“I write songs about living in London right now...” continues Paul-Ronney, “...although having a rubbish time, no money, heartbreak, mental illness, addiction and suppression from the big guy is kinda universal and timeless, I guess…”

her critically acclaimed songwriting has been informed by a wide range of experiences. These include working as a Tennessee ranch-hand, and learning the songs of Chinese farmers during her time as the British Council’s musician-in-residence in Yunnan Province.

Bella’s Christmas concert brings together local carols and well-loved classics.

Boston Manor

The Sugarmill, Stoke-on-Trent, Friday 16 December

Blistering sets are a given whenever barnstorming Blackpool band Boston Manor take to the stage. The punk/emo/pop-punk five-piece came together nine years ago and were quick to make waves on the underground punk scene, generating an end-product that tugged its forelock in the direction of Blink 182, Taking Back Sunday and The Story So Far.

Here playing their latest album, Datura, in its entirety, they’re supported by a band who are no strangers to The Sugarmill: Calva Louise.

Comedy previews from across the region...

Sally Anne Hayward: Ever So Nice

Stourbridge Town Hall, Sat 3 December

If you’re a Sarah Millican, Russell Howard, Russell Kane, Hal Cruttenden or Suzi Ruffell fan and have attended some of their shows, there’s every chance that prior to the main event, you will have had your laughter muscles nicely lubricated for you by SallyAnne Hayward. A real comedian’s comedian - not to mention a regular compere at the Glastonbury Festival - Sally-Anne is here standing in the full glare of the spotlight herself, her ever-so-nice persona concealing a caustic wit, cutting cynicism and generally bitchier side that serves her splendidly well as she takes a tongue-in-cheek look at modern life.

Live At Christmas

“Birmingham audiences tend to be very honest, which I think makes you be a better stand-up.”

So says French comedian and one-time second-city resident Celya AB (pictured), who’s here sharing the bill with the BAFTAwinning comedian Dylan Moran, Live At The Apollo star Rosie Jones and breakout Taskmaster star Mike Wozniak. “Because the city is in the middle of the country, you get a microcosm of the whole country in terms of

what people like - like a Venn diagram. If something works in Birmingham, then chances are it’ll work in Manchester, Liverpool and London. When I’m in London, I can do jokes just about being in London, but then I can’t take them anywhere, and I’m really interested in jokes being sharp and working everywhere. It makes the writing process a bit slower, but it’s super-important, and I learned that from starting off here in Birmingham.”

Barbara Nice’s Christmas Cracker

Midlands Arts Centre (MAC), Birmingham, Fri 16 December

Everybody’s favourite Kings Heath housewife, the incomparable Barbara Nice, makes a welcome return to MAC Birmingham, to light up the season of good will with her annual Christmas Cracker show.

As well as containing more jokes than you’d find in an oversized holiday gag-bag (does such a thing even exist?!), Barbara’s fabulous festive favourite usually features a tombola and raffle, no shortage of mince pies, and sometimes even a special guest or two.

Richard Blackwood: COBO Kings Of Comedy

Glee Club, Birmingham, Tues 27 December

Shaparak Khorsandi

Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Sat 10 December

Iranian-born comedian Shaparak found herself being moved to the UK some 40-plus years ago, after her father - the poet and satirist Hadi Khorsandi - wrote a poem that was perceived as being critical of Iran’s revolutionary regime. “Obviously there’s free speech in Iran,” says Shaparak, “but little freedom after you’ve spoken.”

Richard Blackwood’s comedic style has been described as an amalgam of Richard Pryor, Eddie Murphy and Chris Rock, combined with a healthy dose of Afro Caribbean and South London humour.

Jokes include: “A little boy went up to his father and asked: ‘Dad, where did all of my intelligence come from?’ The father replied: ‘Well, son, you must have gotten it from your mother, coz I still have mine.’”

Richard appears in the Glee Club’s COBO Kings Of Comedy line-up alongside Slim, Kane Brown and Nabil Abdulrashid.

A regular contributor to radio and television programmes, Shaparak describes herself as a ‘spit & sawdust’ stand-up comic, happily pulling on her wellies and trudging through muddy fields to perform at any and every music festival that boasts a comedy tent.

Jokes include, “I was going to India on holiday and wanted to know what the weather was like there. So I phoned my bank.”

Shaparak visits the Midlands with her touring show, It Was The 90s!.

Birmingham Town Hall, Tues 13 December

Image credit: Rachel_Sherlock

SEASONAL SONGSTRESS

Despite her music enjoying something of a crossover appeal down the years - she’s been in the pop charts and even made the Mercury Prize shortlist - Kate Rusby has always been proud to call herself a folk singer, and more importantly, a South Yorkshire folk singer. Those geographic roots have always played a huge part in her music, but particularly during her annual Christmas tours, when she performs a number of South Yorkshire carols alongside traditional favourites and her own festive compositions.

She happily admits Christmas is her favourite time of the year, and to prove it has just started work on a sixth (sixth!) album of festive tunes.

“I get asked if I’m running out of material, because artists will usually only do one or two Christmas albums, but because of the South Yorkshire carols that we have, there’s a whole wealth of songs to choose from. There’s over 50 different versions of While Shepherds Watch Their Flocks By Night for a start, and we’ve only recorded six or seven of them so far, so I could do a whole album of that!”

Typically friendly and down to earth - with a broad Yorkshire accent and wit to match - Kate loves performing the festive tunes she’s known for decades, not least because she feels like she’s giving them life beyond her local area. Despite many of the carols dating back 200 years or more, the versions she performs are largely unknown outside South Yorkshire.

“Every year from the weekend after Armistice Day to New Year’s Day there’s quite a few pubs around South Yorkshire that have these singing sessions,” she tells me, quickly getting into her (even quicker) stride. “It’s not a folky thing, it’s people from all walks of life because it’s all been passed down the generations.

“They’re songs that would have been sung up and down the country in churches, but come the Victorian times they threw out a lot of the ones that were a bit more jolly. Here in South Yorkshire they’ve been kept alive in the pubs, because when the songs were thrown out of the churches, the people that loved singing them - and loved beer - went ‘Right, let’s take them to the pub.’

“When we were young, my parents took us to these things, and we would sit in the tap room with all the other kids, colouring in, drinking

pop and eating crisps, but all the while those carols were seeping in, so we learned so many of them just by being there.”

It was only after she started touring that Kate realised the rest of the country only knew very specific versions of the carols, so she decided to make it her mission to change that. She’s now been doing a Christmas tour (pronounced ‘too-err’, please) for nearly 20 years, adding a brass quintet “because that’s quite important for the South Yorkshire carolling sound” to her usual backing band, which includes husband Damien O’Kane. Family is a crucial element that we’ll come on to later, but it’s evident that the shows have a lighthearted vibe that the players enjoy as much as the audience.

“We always have a big laugh, and there’s a big dressing-up moment at the end of each gig as well. The theme changes each year, and I keep it a big secret from all the boys in the bandthey don’t even know what they’re dressing up as this year! I can’t wait! It’ll be very funny, and I’m going to laugh a lot at their expense!”

Having a laugh and going at her own paceand with her family alongside her every step of the way - is a fairly accurate assessment of Kate’s 30-year career. Her parents were musicians who met in a folk club (“it was a match made in heaven”), encouraged her musical education and eventually helped book her gigs and run her record label. They also provided her early instruments, including a piano that she was forced to play in the garage.

“My dad got one second-hand from a pub and it smelt of old beer and cigarettes! It was gross and a bit sticky, so my mum said it’s not going in the house! So it went in the garage, and I would sit in there playing away. It was better for me because the reverb was nicer than in the carpeted sitting room. I used to love it.”

In 1992 a friend of her parents involved in organising the Holmfirth Folk Festival heard her playing, and the rest is history - but not without a few typically idiosyncratic bumps along the way.

“She stuck her head in the garage door and said ‘You’ve got quite good at that; do you fancy a spot at the festival in two weeks?’ I nodded and said ‘yeah, yeah’, but inside I was thinking ‘What are you doing?!’

“I did a half-hour set, and it was one of the most terrifying things I’ve ever done. When I came off, I vowed I’d never do it again and that I preferred to play with nobody listening.”

Despite her shyness, and reticence about performing in front of audiences - if asked to play at parties, she’d often do so alone in a separate room - the gig offers kept coming and she kept accepting. The gigs and venues continued to grow, and it became obvious that music would be her career, even though it was never part of a pre-meditated plan.

“Thirty years on, I totally believe that music chose me, not the other way round. Even though there was music every day of my life and I was surrounded by it and really loved it, I never thought that people might want to listen to what I was doing.

“I’m still actually quite shy, but a lot more comfortable being on stage in front of people.”

Which is just as well, as there’ll be a lot of people to see her when she performs two shows in one day at Birmingham Town Hall this month, having added a matinee show to meet demand, compensate for an Omicronenforced cancellation last year, and also to encourage families to come along.

“People do bring families to the Christmas shows, and we’ve toyed with bringing our show times forward to around 6.30pm so it won’t be a late night, especially if it’s a school night. But it’s balancing that fine line between people getting home from work and school, getting some tea and getting the glad rags on and out to the venue. So we thought, let’s try having a matinee - and Birmingham is the first.

“We love playing the Town Hall because it’s one of those venues that singers love to sing in because of the natural reverb. And being right in the town centre is great - the Christmas buzz that surrounds it, it’s lovely. I’ll even get to do some shopping in the Christmas market!”

Kate Rusby plays Birmingham Town Hall at 3.30pm and 7.30pm on Saturday 10 December

Folk singer Kate Rusby’s annual Christmas shows have become as much of a tradition for her fans as mince pies and mulled wine. And she wouldn’t have it any other way - as she tells What’s On...

Theatre

Take a rollercoaster ride back to the 1960s with this smash-hit musical.

Dreamgirls debuted on Broadway 41 years ago but is best known from the 2006 film version starring Jamie Foxx and Beyoncé Knowles. A story of friendship and ambition - and how the former can

A Christmas Carol

Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-uponAvon, until Sun 1 January; Albany Theatre, Coventry, Sat 3 - Mon 26 December; Stourbridge Town Hall, Thurs 15 December

Of all Dickens’ festive stories, A Christmas Carol reigns supreme. The covetous sinning of the miserly Scrooge, the eternal hope offered by Tiny Tim, and the eerie visions of redemption - visiting Ebenezer in the shape of three yuletide ghosts - all combine to give the tale a real olde worlde charm...

Adrian Edmondson stars as Scrooge in the RSC’s highly acclaimed adaptation... Ghostly goings-on are this year also putting the willies up old Ebenezer at Stourbridge Town Hall and Coventry’s Albany Theatre.

Theatre previews from around the region

sometimes be compromised by the latter - the show follows the fortunes of Effie, Lorrell and Deena, three talented young singers who aim to hit the high notes as girl group The Dreamettes.

Featured numbers include And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going, Listen, I Am Changing and One Night Only.

Nativity! The Musical

The Rep, Birmingham, until Sat 7 January

Alice In Wonderland

New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme, until Sat 28 January

The New Vic theatre is reaching back into its past for this year’s Christmas production, revisiting - and, according to Artistic Director Theresa Heskins, ‘refreshing’ - its acclaimed version of Alice In Wonderland, which was first performed 11 years ago.

“Alice is one of the shows we’re fondest of,” says Theresa. “It was nominated for awards and engaged the imaginations of so many young people. We’re also fond of it because it has great music, and it’s very lively, funny and witty. It’s a much-loved story told in a very dramatic and exciting way.”

Debbie Isitt’s 2009 movie, Nativity!, proved so popular that it spawned three further films. It also inspired the Midlands-born writer to create this musical stage adaptation. For those unfamiliar with the plot, it concerns the children of St Bernadette’s primary school and their ambition to present a musical version of the nativity. An already big challenge for the kids is made all the trickier by false promises, a complicated love interest and a rival school vying with St Bernadette’s for the critics’ award... Not surprisingly, chaos ensues!

Dreamgirls

The Alexandra, Birmingham, Tues 6 - Sat 31 December

Theatre

Theatre previews from around the region

Cinderella

Swan Theatre, Worcester, until Thurs 2 January; Blue Orange Theatre, Birmingham, until Sat 10 December; Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Spa, Sat 3 - Sat 31 December; Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, Fri 9 - Sat 31 December; The Albany Theatre, Coventry, Fri 30 December - Sun 8 January

Dick Whittington

Birmingham Hippodrome, Sat 17 December - Sun 29 January

“The audience reaction on my first entrance gets me every time,” says Hippodrome panto favourite Matt Slack, who this month and next stars in the venue’s lavish production of Dick Whittington, alongside Marti Pellow, Dr Ranj, Suzanne Shaw, Doreen Tipton and Andrew Ryan. “It’s something quite special. It’s like coming out of lockdown and being allowed in a pub!”

Matt will certainly be hoping history doesn’t

repeat itself when he takes to the stage this year - a previous production of Dick Whittington saw him making an unexpected visit to hospital: “I wrote and performed a lip-sync routine where I fell off the stage into the orchestra pit, onto a crash mat. That went fine, but when I rushed to get back up, I went over on my ankle. Nothing broken luckily, but the sprain was the worst possible. I had a detached ligament and still suffer with it now. However, I finished the show, hopping through it, and then off to A&E. The things you do to get a laugh!”

With its comical Ugly Sisters, matchmaking fairy godmother, drop-dead-gorgeous Prince Charming, super-cute mice and fits-one-footonly glass slipper, Cinderella can justifiably lay claim to being one of the most popular of all pantomimes - an assertion ably supported by the fact that so many Midlands venues have chosen to produce a version of it for their Christmas show this year. Production images below are Swan Theatre, Worcester (left) and Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Spa (right).

Aladdin

Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Sat 3 December - Sat 7 January

“It’s a great part to play,” says ex-EastEnder Michael Greco in talking about taking on the role of the evil Abanazar in the Grand Theatre’s festive-season panto production of Aladdin. “I’ve done it before, but this time I’ve been promised by the producers that they’re going to make him even more evilso I’m really looking forward to that. This is

going to be more than just your normal pantomime villain - this is gonna be a proper actor’s stage Abanazar!”

Michael is joined in the show by Zoe Birkett, Ben Cajee, Tam Ryan, Ian Adams and Duane Gooden.

“The Grand is incredible,” he continues.

“It’s one of those old-style theatres that I love, and there’s some really great talent in the show as well. I’m really looking forward to it - I can’t wait for the six weeks to start!”

Snow White And The Severn

Dwarfs

The Roses, Tewkesbury, until Sat 31 December; Lichfield Garrick, until Sun 8 January; Telford Theatre, Thurs 8 DecemberMon 2 January

Snow White’s ‘magnificent seven’ mining pals are packing their pick-axes and getting down to business at three major Midlands venues this Christmas.

Their Telford stop-off sees them joined by local favourite Chloe Barlow as Snow White and EastEnders actor and Dancing On Ice winner Sam Attwater as the Prince.

In Lichfield, the star of the show (as usual) is Sam Rabone, who’ll not only be taking on the role of Dame Nelly in the popular pantomime but also directing the production.

Meanwhile, further south in Tewkesbury, the creators of King Arthur: The Panto! - that’s the BAFTA-winning writer Maurice Gran (Birds Of A Feather) and local playwright

Nick Wilkes (the Almost series) - are taking another bite of the festive apple with their brand-new version of the ever-popular pantomime. Promotion image below is for Snow White... at Telford Theatre.

Theatre previews from around the region

Jack And The Beanstalk

Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, until Sat 7 January; Prince Of Wales Theatre, Cannock, Sat 17 - Wed 28 December

Cannock and Coventry are both receiving a visit from a big bad ogre this month. The Prince of Wales Theatre’s version of Jack features all the traditional pantomime ingredients, including ‘music, laughter, stunning sets and lots of audience participation’...

Meanwhile in Coventry, the Belgrade’s Mr Pantomime, Iain Lauchlan, is presenting a new version of the show he wrote in 2020, which was made available to online audiences during the pandemic. “Making one show different from another is always the challenge,” says Iain. “And especially Jack And The Beanstalk. It’s a very specific fairytale, and people don’t want you to stray from that. It’s all the things in between that you try and make different - the comedy routines, the songs and the dances. And of course you don’t want to be repeating the dialogue and jokes, just in case people remember them!”

Horrible Christmas

Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Sun 11 December

The Horrible Histories team are back, this time to stab a sprig of holly through the heart of the yuletide season!

Famous festive favourites Charles Dickens, St Nicholas and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer - not to mention Oliver Cromwell and King Henry VIII - are all present and correct in a good-humoured show that brings together Victorian villains, Medieval monks, Puritan parties and Tudor treats.

The Snow Queen

Crescent Theatre, Birmingham, Tues 6 - Sat 17 December; Blue Orange Theatre, Birmingham, Sat 17 - Fri 30 December

The Snow Queen is ruler of all she surveys. When she kidnaps young Kay, it’s left to Gerda to save him from a bleak future in the frostbitten wastelands...

Perfect for families who fancy something a little different from a traditional pantomime, Hans Christian Andersen’s oft-performed tale is this Christmas being presented at two of Birmingham’s most innovative theatres.

Theatre

The Pantomime Adventures Of Peter Pan

Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, Fri 9 - Sat 31 December

As usual Jonathan Wilkes heads the cast of the Regent’s panto - he’s playing Smee in this brand-new version of Peter Pan - but the big news this year is that the theatre’s dame of longstanding, Christian Patterson, will not be joining him in Neverland. A once-in-alifetime opportunity to appear in a film that’s being helmed by an Oscar-winning director sadly means the much-loved Welsh actor won’t be steering his wardrobe of outrageous frocks in the direction of the ‘second star to the right and straight on till morning’. Those who most definitely are Neverland-bound this Christmas, however, include Torchwood star Kai Owen, who’ll be losing a hand and gaining the attention of a blood-thirsty crocodile in the always-to-die-for role of Captain Hook.

Beauty And The Beast

The Old Rep, Birmingham, until Fri 16 December; The Courtyard, Hereford, until Sat 7 January; Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, until Sun 8 January; Palace Theatre, Redditch, Mon 5 - Sat 31 December; The Core Theatre, Solihull, Fri 9 December - Mon 2 January

When a young woman is captured by a hideous beast, she finds herself facing a life of isolation in his mysterious palace. The Beast, too, is trappedseemingly forever - inside the grotesquery of his physical appearance, the consequence of a spell cast upon him by an evil witch. Only Beauty’s ability to look beyond his ugliness and see the person within can save him...

That’s pretty much the story-outline of this ever-popular age-old fairytale, which is this month being given the pantomime treatment at a number of the above-listed Midlands venues. Not every production is being marketed as a panto, though, so check each theatre’s website before booking your tickets. Top image is Beauty And The Beast at The Courtyard, Hereford and below Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury.

Theatre for younger audiences...

Elf The Musical

Resorts World Arena, Birmingham, Thurs 22 - Fri 23 December

“We are keenly aware of the economic climate,” says Elf The Musical’s producer & director, Jon Conway, “and are one of the few shows to have reduced our prices from our last visit, to provide an affordable family outing.

“One of the best sights is the audiences dressing up for the show, especially the dads in elf Christmas sweaters!”

The stage adaptation of Will Ferrell’s hit festive movie Elf has proved to be a real crowd-pleaser in previous years.

Billed as ‘the world’s biggest pantomime’, the show features film backdrops on a huge LED screen and a mobile stage that travels the auditorium, ensuring that everyone gets a close-up view of the action.

And that’s not all. The production also features Santa’s flying sleigh, an audience snowball fight, an indoor snowstorm, aerial cirque stars and a giant candy cane journey from the North Pole. What’s not to like?...

Santa In Love

Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, Fri 16 - Sat 24 December

Youngsters have plenty of questions to ask about Christmas. And The People’s Theatre Company is here aiming to provide an answer to perhaps the biggest one of all: What’s the one thing that Santa Claus secretly loves best?

“You’ll never guess,” advise the talented ensemble, “so if you want to find out, then join Santa and his friends in this fun-filled family musical, complete with games, giggles and all your favourite Christmas songs.”

Sounds good to us...

The Gruffalo

Birmingham Town Hall, Tues 27 December - Sun 15 January

With millions of copies of the book having been sold, it’s fair to say that Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s award-winning Gruffalo has captured the hearts and minds of children everywhere. Presenting songs,

laughs and ‘monstrous’ fun for children aged three and upwards, this much-loved stage version of the terrific tale follows Mouse as he heads out on a journey through the deep dark wood, scaring away hungry animals with tall stories of the terrifying Gruffalo. Imagine his surprise, then, when he suddenly finds himself coming face-to-face with the very creature he’s imagined!

The Bear

Midlands Arts Centre (MAC), Birmingham, until Fri 30 December

The late Raymond Briggs is best known, of course, for his story about a little boy who makes friends with a snowman. His picture book of The Bear has a similar child-meets-unusual-friend theme - except that in this case, it’s a little girl and an enormous polar bear who take centre stage. Adapted for the theatre by Pins And Needles and already the recipient of enormous critical acclaim, this heartwarming and decidedly wintry ‘tall tale’ features puppetry, music, storytelling and plenty of humour. Highly recommended.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Christmas Show

Brewhouse Arts Centre, Burton upon Trent, Thurs 1 - Sun 4 December

In a career stretching back to the mid-1960s, the late Eric Carle illustrated more than 70 books - writing most of them, too. None have been more famous or successful than his 1969 story of The Very Hungry Caterpillar. The light-on-words picture book has been translated into more than 60 languages, selling in excess of 52 million copies... This stage version of Carle’s much-loved tale is presented alongside three other popular children’s stories by the same author: Brown Bear, Brown Bear; 10 Little Rubber Ducks; and The Very Lonely Firefly. The show features no fewer than 75 ‘lovable puppets’.

theatrical magic aplenty, so this is definitely a show that’s well worth catching. Presented by the team behind two other hit kids’ productions - Dear Zoo Live and Dear Santa - the show features puppetry, toetapping songs and, as a special festive treat, the chance to help Squirrel find everything she needs to build a snowman.

Stick Man

Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Sat 3 - Sat 31 December

“Freckle Productions send shivers down my spine,” reveals Julia Donaldson, the cocreator (along with Alex Scheffler) of the hugely popular children’s book on which this show is based. “They’re so lively and innovative. I love their production of Stick Man, and so do the audiences.”

Julia’s not wrong - audiences most definitely do love the show, as a smash-hit season in the West End ably demonstrated.

Featuring a trio of talented performers, the production brings together puppetry, songs, live music and ‘funky moves’ to tell the story of Stick Man’s desperate attempts to get back to the family tree. An hour-long show suitable for all ages.

Jack And The Magic Beanstalk

The Rep, Birmingham, until Sat 31 December

Birmingham Rep’s festive family offering this year includes a brand-new production of a classic fairytale.

Written for three to six-year-olds by acclaimed children’s theatre playwright Katherine Chandler, Jack And The Magic Beanstalk plays the Rep’s most intimate space, The Door, and has a running time of one hour.

Santa’s Christmas Rescue

Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, Thurs 8 - Sat 24 December; Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, Sat 10 - Sat 24 December

Hans Christian Andersen: The Ugly Duckling & Other Stories

Lichfield Garrick, Sat 10 - Sat 24 December

One of three festive shows at the Garrick this month, Hans Christian Andersen: The Ugly Duckling & Other Stories pretty much does what it says on the tin, presenting a selection of terrific tales from the vivid imagination of Denmark’s legendary spinner of magical yarns.

Tales From Acorn Wood At Christmas

Birmingham Hippodrome, Tues 13 - Sat 31 December

Stage adaptations of books by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler invariably offer

The ‘other tales’ referred to in the title are: The Princess And The Pea, The Steadfast Tin Soldier and The Emperor’s New Clothes.

The show’s producers, Apollo Theatre Company, have developed the 60-minute presentation with youngsters aged between three and nine in mind.

If your little one is pre-school age, this show could well be the ideal way to kickstart their festive celebrations. When Santa gets himself stuck in the snow, Ellie, Izzy and Rudolph have to help him find his way home in time for Christmas... Featuring sackfuls of singalong songs and no small amount of yuletide cheer, Santa’s Christmas Rescue also provides youngsters with the opportunity to give their Christmas wish-list to the man himself, who in turn will be handing out a present to every child.

Written by the Belgrade’s much-loved panto star, Iain Lauchlan, the show is 35 minutes in length.

doctor in the house

Television presenter and real-life medic Dr Ranj talks about starring as Spirit of the Bells in Birmingham Hippodrome’s pantomime production of Dick Whittington

A familiar face on our TV screens, Dr Ranj’s journey to celebrity status began with hosting CBeebies series Get Well Soon and Get Well Soon Hospital. Subsequent spells in the limelight saw the real-life medic become a household name via spots on popular TV shows This Morning, Strictly Come Dancing and a festive edition of The Great British Sewing Bee. What’s On recently caught up with the good doctor to talk about his upcoming (and third) appearance in panto, this time playing Spirit of the B ells at Birmingham Hippodrome...

Television medic and presenter Dr Ranj was in his 30s the first time he saw a pantomimeand immediately fell in love with its crazy Christmas spirit. He determined there and then that one day he would tread the boards in panto - and this year sees that wish come true for a third time as he stars in the Birmingham Hippodrome production of Dick Whittington.

Dr Ranj will be playing Spirit of the Bells alongside a cast including Marti Pellow as the Ratman, Matt Slack as Dick, Suzanne Shaw as Alice, Andrew Ryan as the Dame (Felicity Fitzwarren) and Doreen Tipton as Doreen the Cat.

“I love doing pantomime,” he says. “During the pandemic we missed it a lot. For me it’s a chance to experience the magical land of theatre at one of the best times of the year. Just seeing the reaction of families and kids when they come to pantomime, there’s no feeling like that, and to be part of that magical experience is really special.

“And then I get to do it alongside an incredible cast. And to do it at the Hippodrome - that’s a dream come true. Everyone knows about the Hippodrome theatre - it’s beautiful, massive and gorgeous. Everyone says ‘If you’re going to see a pantomime, you have to go to the Birmingham one because it’s spectacular.’ So when I was asked if I would do it, I couldn’t say no.”

Dr Ranj is looking forward to joining the cast and spending time in Birmingham.

“Dick Whittington is a classic pantomime, and I’m playing the ‘fairy godmother’ type of character. It will be a lot of fun. The cast are all completely new to me. Matt Slack is a legend, but I’ve never worked with him. I grew up listening to Marti Pellow - I was a massive fan of Wet Wet Wet - so it’s going to be very hard for me not to fan boy when I’m working with him.

“I love Birmingham. I’ve been to the city

loads of times and have worked here too, with Birmingham Children’s Hospital. The city is a firm favourite of mine, but I’ve never got to appear at the Hippodrome before, so I can’t wait.”

It may be difficult to believe but Dr Ranjwho’s a practising doctor working in the NHS as well as a television presenter - never went to a panto as a child.

“I used to go to theatre shows with school, but even then, not that often. I hadn’t actually seen a pantomime until I was a grown-up. I was in my 30s! I went to see one that my friend was in, in Horsham. I remember watching it and thinking ‘This is fantastic, one day I want to do panto!” And five or six years later, lo and behold, I ended up doing a panto and absolutely loved it.

“Everything about pantomime was completely new to me. I was coming at it as a grown-up, learning all about this weird and wonderful world, all its traditions - but this is the beauty of it. As much as kids love it, as a grown-up coming into it brand new, I absolutely loved it too. I got it; I understood why everyone loves it so much. And panto is for everyone - that’s the best part.”

Dr Ranj first became a favourite with TV viewers via his CBeebies’ series Get Well Soon and Get Well Soon Hospital. Then, in 2018, he competed in Strictly Come Dancing with partner Janette Manrara and joined the Strictly tour in 2019. Other television appearances include This Morning, the Christmas special of The Great British Sewing Bee, Dr Ranj: On Call and Cooking With The Stars.

With such a varied career, he knows his fellow cast members will have plenty of material for the personalised jokes which make up so much of the entertainment of pantomime.

“Matt Slack has already warned me that he’s going to be poking fun at me, but luckily I have thick skin! I’m sure they’re going to pick

up on my medical stuff and me being a doctor, so I’m fully prepared for a lot of doctor jokes. They’re probably also going to poke fun at me doing Strictly. But it’s all in good spirit and done as friendly banter. As long as it gives people a laugh, I don’t mind.”

Having come to theatre via television, Dr Ranj has realised that being on stage has its own particular challenges - especially in pantoland...

“You never quite know what’s going to happen with pantomime, so you’ve got to be flexible and dynamic. Once you get into the swing of a show and understand it, I think that becomes a little bit easier because you can then vibe and riff off each other. It keeps you on your toes, but that’s part of the excitement, and part of the enjoyment for the audience.

“I always find learning lines challenging. It takes me a bit longer to get things into my head. And for me, because I’ve not trained as a theatre performer and am very much coming at it from the outside, I know I’ve got a lot more to do in many ways, but I take it as an opportunity to learn from the people I’m on stage with.”

Dr Ranj is remaining tight-lipped about whether he will be tripping the light fantastic in Dick Whittington - although he would be more than happy to pull on his dancing shoes.

“I’d love to do a bit of dancing in the show. It’s a great way to keep fit. In the past, I’ve looked forward to panto because I can get fit, and then, over Christmas, eat what I like.

Dancing would certainly get me ready for Christmas Day!”

Dick Whittington shows at Birmingham Hippodrome from Sat 17 December to Sun 29 January

by Diane Parkes

Leading Ladies

Whether preparing to go to the ball, taking a bite out of a poisoned apple, scaling a beanstalk or flying to Neverland, panto’s leading ladies play a major part in sprinkling magic across the Midlands region over the festive period. We take a look at who is playing who, where and when...

SUZANNE SHAW Alice in Dick Whittington at Birmingham Hippodrome

Hitting the big time many a moon ago on ITV talent show Popstars, via which she became a member of chart-busting pop group Hear’Say, Suzanne has since carved out an impressive stage and television career. TV highlights have included winning series three of Dancing On Ice, a year-long stint on Emmerdale, and enjoying a good ol’ lunchtime natter or several on Loose Women. Her theatre CV, meanwhile, features such notable productions as Chicago, The Vagina Monologues and The Rocky Horror Show. Suzanne is no stranger to panto at Birmingham Hippodrome, having previously appeared at the venue as Cinderella.

Dick Whittington shows at Birmingham Hippodrome from Saturday 17 December to Sunday 29 January

SAMANTHA DORRANCE

Beauty in Beauty And The Beast at Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury

Willenhall-born Samantha is no stranger to Theatre Severn pantoland, having previously appeared there in the title role in Cinderella and as Wendy in Peter Pan. She exploded onto the entertainment scene by winning Disney Channel talent search You’re The Star, after which she developed a career as a television presenter and also took the lead role of Laura in both the West End and touring productions of jukebox musical Dreamboats And Petticoats. In recent times Samantha has toured her very own children’s show, Sammy & The Sparks LIVE. Last Christmas saw her starring in panto as Goldilocks at Birmingham Hippodrome.

Beauty And The Beast shows at Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, from Wednesday 30 November to Sunday 8 January

ZOE BIRKETT

Spirit Of The Ring in Aladdin at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre

Zoe became a household name after appearing in the first series of Pop Idol, with Will Young and Gareth Gates, way back in 2001. Pursuing a career in musical theatre, she not only starred in UK touring productions of In Town Tonight and What A Feeling but also made a splash in the London West End, appearing in Priscilla Queen Of The Desert for two years and then becoming the leading lady in Thriller Live. Earlier this year she starred as Arabia in Moulin Rouge! The Musical at Piccadilly Theatre. Zoe also spent 58 days in the Big Brother house back in 2014.

Aladdin shows at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre from Saturday 3 December to Saturday 7 January

HARRIET THORPE

Fairy Godmother in Cinderella at Stafford Gatehouse Theatre

Promising to make life, er, ‘wand’erful for kitchen skivvy Cinders this festive season, Harriet has previously starred in some of theatreland’s most high-profile shows, including Cabaret, Wicked and Stephen Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber Of Fleet Street. She’s no stranger to telly either, with Absolutely Fabulous, The Brittas Empire and Hollyoaks all featuring on her impressive CV.

Cinderella shows at Stafford Gatehouse Theatre from Friday 9 to Saturday 31 December

MARIA CONNEELY

Snow White in Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs at Lichfield Garrick

Returning to the Garrick after appearing as Lizzie in last year’s panto, The All New Adventures Of Peter Pan, Maria has most recently starred as Rapunzel in the Theatre Royal Bath production of Into The Woods.

Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs shows at Lichfield Garrick Theatre from Friday 25 November to Sunday 8 January

LOLLY - ANNA KUMBLE

Wicked Queen in Snow White at Telford Theatre

Sutton Coldfield-born model, singer, TV presenter and pantomime veteran Lolly is spending her Christmas in mean & moody mode as the Wicked Queen. It’s a far cry indeed from the last time she appeared in a Telford Theatre panto, during which she wand-waved Cinderella to the ball in the far-more-loveable role of the Fairy Godmother.

Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs shows at Telford Theatre from Thursday 8 December to Monday 2 January

MORNA MACPHERSON

Jack in Jack And The Beanstalk at Belgrade Theatre, Coventry

Morna MacPherson is this Christmas once again full of beans as Jack, having previously played the happy-go-lucky giant-slayer in the Belgrade’s online production of the panto during the Covid pandemic. Morna’s Belgrade pantomime history also includes a season spent starring as Aladdin.

Jack And The Beanstalk shows at the Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, from Wednesday 23 November to Saturday 7 January

SOLEIL QUARLESS

Cinderella at Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Spa

Here taking the titular role of down-onher-luck Cinders, Soleil is treading the boards at the Royal Spa Centre for the very first time. She’s previously played the role of Princess Jill in Nottingham, in the award-winning People’s Theatre Company’s production of Jack And The Beanstalk.

Cinderella shows at Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Spa, from Saturday 3 to Saturday 31 December

MARTHA-FRANCES HENRY

Cinderella at The Swan Theatre, Worcester

West Yorkshire lass Martha is off to the ball in search of a handsome prince this Christmas. This is her latest leading-lady role; she previously played Beauty (to Jake Quickenden’s Beast) and Jill in Jack And The Beanstalk.

Cinderella shows at The Swan Theatre, Worcester from Tuesday 29 November to Monday 2 January

HANNAH EVEREST

Wendy in Peter Pan at Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent

Graduating from the Ann Oliver Stage School, Hannah’s stage credits include Gypsy and The Sound Of Music - both at Leicester’s Curve - and a panto season playing Sleeping Beauty at Sheffield Lyceum.

Peter Pan shows at the Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, from Friday 9 to Saturday 31 December

NAOMI WILKINSON Belle in Beauty And The Beast at Palace Theatre, Redditch

Having started her entertainment career at Butlins, Naomi is nowadays best known as a children’s television presenter, and in particular for CBBC’s Wild & Weird, where she uncovers ‘the weirdest wildlife tales the planet has to offer!’

Beauty And The Beast shows at the Palace Theatre, Redditch, from Monday 5 to Saturday 31 December

KATE DENNY Belle in Beauty And The Beast at The Courtyard, Hereford

Manchester-based Kate is spending Christmas in fairytale-castle captivity courtesy of the big, bad Beast. A one-time musical theatre student at Liverpool Theatre School, her CV includes productions of What We Did Next and Carrie The Musical.

Beauty And The Beast shows at The Courtyard, Hereford from Friday 25 November to Saturday 7 January

REBECCA AVERY

Fairy Bee in Jack and The Beanstalk at Prince of Wales Theatre, Cannock

Rebecca Avery is no stranger to the Prince of Wales Theatre, previously starring as Princess Jill in 2018’s Jack and The Beanstalk, and most recently as Slave Of The Ring in 2021’s production of Aladdin. This year she hopes to sprinkle a bit of magic across Cannock as Fairy Bee.

Jack and The Beanstalk shows at Prince of Wales Theatre, Cannock, from Saturday 17 to Wednesday 28 December

ELIZABETH ROBIN Rapunzel at Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

Sheffield-born Elizabeth is spending another Christmas in Sutton Coldfield, having last year stepped into the glass slippers of Cinderella. A graduate of Royal Central School of Speech & Drama, she most recently appeared in Illyria Theatre’s touring production of Peter Pan, playing both Tinker Bell and Mrs Darling.

Rapunzel & The Rascal Prince shows at Sutton Coldfield Town Hall from Tuesday 6 to Saturday 31 December

GEORGIA MANN

Snow White at The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury

Fresh from London’s Mountview drama school, Georgia heads for the comparative safety of the seven dwarfs’ cottage after previously starring as Old Ma Gwynn in Nell Gwynn and Cosette in Les Miserables.

Snow White shows at The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury from Saturday 26 November to Saturday 31 December

REBECCA D’LACEY

Belle in Beauty And The Beast at The Core Theatre, Solihull

Taking on the role of besieged beauty Belle in this Beast of a production from the awardwinning Little Wolf Entertainment, Rebecca is no stranger to family theatre, previously touring the UK in hit festive show Dear Santa.

Beauty And The Beast shows at The Core Theatre Solihull from Friday 9 December to Monday 2 January

KIERA-NICOLE

Jasmine in Aladdin at Crewe Lyceum Theatre

A familiar face to fans of Channel Five children’s series Milkshake, Kiera-Nicole has visited pantoland before, starring alongside Curtis Pritchard in a Qdos Production of Dick Whittington.

Aladdin shows at Crewe Lyceum Theatre from Friday 16 December to Sunday 8 January

Sir Peter Wright’s version of this firm festive favourite returns to the Hippodrome courtesy (of course) of Birmingham Royal Ballet. Created in 1990 as a thank-you to the city for its support of the company following its move to the Midlands from London’s Sadler Wells, Sir Peter’s production is seen by many as the finest interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s magnificent and mesmerising score. In true Christmas spirit, the story follows the young Clara as she’s swept up in a fantasy of soldiers, giant rats, snow fairies, magic and mystery, before finally being transformed into a beautiful ballerina. A magical, must-see show for theatre-going dance lovers everywhere, the production is this year enhanced by a £1million makeover. “More than 80 percent is the same,” explains designer John Macfarlane, “but we’ve been able to make some changes with new fabrics and materials. And the refurbishment has given us the chance to come back to some things and improve them.

“The original ideas and production concept evolved very easily, and I remember feeling that there was something quite special about the process. In your career, you can pick out three or four productions that have changed your direction, and you realise you can’t go back to how you did things before. I think that Nutcracker was one of those productions for me. It was a huge learning process - but I didn’t realise it until a long time afterwards.

“This is the first time I’ve completely re-built an existing production. What’s really interesting is that you go into it thinking ‘I’m going to change this and I’m going to change that,’ and then, when you actually start to try and do it, you suddenly remember why you did certain things the way you did.

“I’m not sure the audience has actually realised how much The Nutcracker has worn over the years - but when they see this rebuild, it will be so vibrant. Everything will be rich and colourful.”

The Nutcracker Birmingham Hippodrome, until Sat 10 December

festive favourite continues to show at Birmingham Hippodrome...

Film highlights in December...

I Wanna Dance with Somebody

CERT tbc

Avatar: The Way of Water

CERT tbc (190 mins)

Starring Zoe Saldaña, Sam Worthington, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Cliff Curtis, Joel David Moore Directed by James Cameron It’s been a good year for fans of two highprofile films who’ve had to wait a long time for a sequel. First there was Top Gun: Maverick, released a full 36 years after the original film, and now there’s The Way Of

Violent Night

CERT tbc (101 mins)

Starring David Harbour, Beverly D’Angelo, John Leguizamo, Cam Gigandet, Brendan Fletcher, Edi Patterson

Directed by Tommy Wirkola

Best known as Chief of Police Jim Hopper in hit Netflix series Stranger Things, David Harbour here displays his admirable versatility by adding his name to the evergrowing list of actors who’ve played Santa Claus.

When a team of mercenaries breaks into a wealthy family compound on Christmas Eve, taking everyone inside hostage, they end up getting far more than they bargained for: Saint Nicholas (that’s Santa) is in the vicinity - and he’s about to make it clear that he’s temporarily misplaced his halo... From the producers of runaway hits Bullet Train, Deadpool 2 and Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw.

Released Fri 2 December

Water,

the big screen 13 years after Avatar first stunned cinema-going audiences. Set more than a decade after the events of the first film, the sequel finds Jake Sully living with his newfound family on the planet of Pandora. When a familiar threat returns to finish what was previously started, Jake must work with the army of the Na’vi race to protect the planet...

Released Fri 16 December

The Silent Twins

CERT tbc (113 mins)

Starring Letita Wright, Tamara Lawrance, Leah Mondesir-Simmonds, Eva-Arianna Baxter, Nadine Marshall, Treva Etienne

Directed by Agnieszka Smoczynska

Starring Naomi Ackie, Stanley Tucci, Tamara Tunie, Clarke Peters, Ashton Sanders, Nafessa Williams Directed by Kasi Lemmons Films about dearly departed superstar singers who lived rags-to-riches lives of fame and fortune followed by decline and death are all the rage at the moment, with last summer’s Baz Luhrmann-directed Elvis now being followed by this Whitney Houston musical biopic. Expect the movie to make stop-offs at all the key points in Whitney’s eventually tragic life, from her first solo singing stint - covering for her sore-throatafflicted mother - through her time with The Sweet Temptations, to her later years as fashion icon, pop legend, participant in an ultimately ill-starred marriage to singer Bobby Brown and drug-addled shadow of her former self.

Released Mon 26 December

Based on the book of the same name by award-winning investigative journalist Marjorie Wallace, The Silent Twins follows the story of June and Jennifer Gibbons, identical twins growing up in the only Black family in a small Welsh town during the 1970s and ’80s. From the age of three, the sisters begin to reject communication with anyone but each other, and across time disappear into a world of their own. But when their frustrations lead to a spree of vandalism and arson, the girls find themselves facing a starkly grim future... Helmed by Polish writer & director Agnieszka Smoczyńska, The Silent Twins enjoyed plenty of positive feedback at this year’s Cannes film festival.

Released Fri 9 December

Corsage

CERT tbc (113 mins)

Starring Vicky Krieps, Colin Morgan, Finnegan Oldfield, Ivana Urban, Alma Hasun, Jeanne Werner Directed by Marie Kreutzer

Imagining a year in the home life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, Corsage scored a significant hit at Cannes and recently picked up the top prize at the BFI London Film Festival. The prestigious event’s Official Competition jury called the Marie Kreutzerdirected entry a “masterfully realised film”, going on to say that they had been “completely seduced by Vicky Krieps’ sublime performance as a woman out of time, trapped in her own iconography and her rebellious yearning for liberation”.

Released Mon 26 December

hitting

THE 12 FILMS OF CHRISTMAS

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire, Jack Frost nipping at your nose... and a fabulous festive film on the telly to warm the cockles of your heart! Yes, Christmas is a-comingbut which magnificent yuletide movies should you choose for your holiday viewing? Here are 12 much-loved classics to consider...

It’s A Wonderful Life

For many people, Frank Capra’s It’s A Wonderful Life (1946) is the festive film of all festive films. Although it was shot during a summer heatwave, its heart and soul is pure Christmas!

James Stewart stars as George Bailey, a man whose sense of duty sees him forsaking his own dreams and aspirations for the good of his family and community. Weighed down by his heavy responsibilities and no small amount of ill fortune, George decides he’d be better off dead - until, that is, his guardian angel, Clarence, makes him see the error of his ways...

has gone on vacation and accidentally left him behind. Home alone, he’s determined to keep the property safe and sound...

Elf

There are those for whom no Christmas is complete without watching Elf.

Home Alone

The film that made a child star of Macaulay Culkin, Home Alone (1990) also features Joe Pesci - fresh from his time spent whacking fellow mobsters in Martin Scorcese’s Goodfellas - and Daniel Stern as a pair of incompetent house-breakers. When the bumbling burglars attempt to rob a suburban Chicago home, they get plenty more than they bargained for: Kevin McCallister’s family

Love Actually

Riding on the back of his successes with Four Weddings And A Funeral and Notting Hill, Richard Curtis sent this film out into the festive ether back in 2003 and scored a giant Christmas hit. Sickly sweet and cringeworthy though it may be in many places (many, many places!), the film also features some truly touching and genuinely poignant scenesnot to mention stand-out moments to remember forever, such as Hugh Grant as the prime minister dancing around Number 10 to the Pointer Sisters’ Jump (For My Love).

The now-cult movie - a stage-musical version of which is visiting the Midlands this monthfinds Will Ferrell in fine form as Buddy, a man-child who, having been raised at the North Pole by Santa’s elves, determines to head to New York in search of his biological father, played by Godfather actor James Caan... Celebrating its 20th anniversary next year, Elf is a movie that’s positively overflowing with yuletide cheer. It also comes complete with many a visual gag to keep the kids happy.

The Muppet Christmas Carol

What do you get if you combine a muchloved story by the Victorian era’s most famous writer, with an ensemble cast of puppets and an Academy Award-winning actor? The Muppet Christmas Carol, of course! Charles Dickens’ 1843 short story about a grumpy old sinner who’s taught the error of his miserly ways by a trio of festive phantoms provides plenty of opportunity for

the Muppets to peddle their absurdist style of comedy. Michael Caine, the Oscar-winning actor mentioned above, stays rock-steady as Ebenezer Scrooge amid the puppet-powered pandemonium.

the centre of controversy when the benign senior citizen claims that he is, in fact, the real Santa Claus...

The Holiday

How The Grinch Stole Christmas

Jim Carrey’s career was very much firing on all cylinders when he took the starring role in this Year 2000 big-screen adaptation of Dr Seuss’s classic story. The mean-minded, green-skinned Grinch lives at the top of a mountain overlooking Whoville, a town that certainly knows how to keep Christmas in style. Favouring isolation over living in the town - where he’d been brought up but bullied - the Grinch decides it’s high time he took his revenge on the citizens of Whovilleby stealing all of their presents, decorations and food while they’re asleep...

Bolstered by an all-star cast, Nancy Meyers’ 2006 romantic comedy has established itself as a modern-day Christmas classic and is considered by many to be essential yuletide viewing. The wafer-thin but effective storyline sees two thirtysomething singletons who’ve never met deciding to swap homes for Christmas, with Kate Winslet’s Iris Simpkins heading for LA and Cameron Diaz’s Amanda Woods travelling in the opposite direction to a cottage in the English countryside. Both women are recovering from heartbreak, but it isn’t long before each of them finds the gift of a new romance in their festive stocking...

outside his bedroom window. But this is no ordinary train; this one is transporting its passengers to the North Pole for a meeting with the man himself. The boy is invited on board the locomotive and the adventure begins...

Miracle On 34th Street

New York’s 34th Street has seen more than its fair share of Miracles down the years, but there’s no question that the two most popular ones happened in 1947 and 1994. Both versions have become perennial festive family favourites, with the original released just one year after that other classic Christmas cracker, It’s A Wonderful Life... When New York’s biggest department store finds itself short of a Santa, an old fella named Kris Kringle steps in to help out. So far, so good. But the store soon finds itself at

Nativity!

You’ve seen the musical (or if you haven’t, book yourself a ticket at the Birmingham Rep, where it’s running across the festive season), now check out the original film! Midlands writer Debbie Isitt’s movie was the surprise Christmas hit of 2009, bringing together an impressive cast of big-name performers and, in due course of time, spawning three sequels. Set in Coventry and partially improvised, the film follows the attempts of St Bernadette’s Catholic primary school to pick up the prize for the best nativity play. But things threaten to spiral out of control when the teacher in charge of the production tells a big fat festive lie...

The Polar Express

Listed in the 2006 Guinness Book of Records as the world’s ‘first all-digital capture’ film, The Polar Express stars Tom Hanks in a variety of roles and follows the story of a young boy who’s starting to wonder whether Santa Claus really exists. On Christmas Eve he sees a mysterious steam locomotive

Scrooge

Of all the versions of A Christmas Carol to grace our cinema screens in the post-war years, this 1951 British offering is widely considered to be the greatest - not least because of a show-stopping portrayal of the title character by legendary English actor Alastair Sim.

Sim went on to voice Scrooge in an animated version of the Carol some 20 years later. His interpretation of the character on both occasions was so memorable that Jim Carrey decided to mimick him when he himself lent his voice to old Ebenezer (in another animated version of the story, released in 2009).

The Snowman

This wordless, half-hour, made-for-television animated film was first screened in 1982, four years after the publication of the Raymond Briggs book on which it’s based. It’s a simple tale about a snowman who comes to life and takes a small boy on an adventure through the starry night sky. The film is routinely screened every Christmas (often alongside its sequel, The Snowman And The Snowdog) and is undoubtedly best known for the central song of its Howard Blake-composed score: Walking In The Air.

FESTIVE GIFTING WITH A DIFFERENCE...

Christmas is a-comin’... and while the goose is getting fat, you’re probably going to be busy trying to find the perfect presents for your family and friends. Gifts based on special interests are always much more meaningful, while purchasing an experience or an activity for someone to enjoy will provide them with memories that will last a lifetime. With that in mind, we’ve put together a few suggestions to help you on your way...

For the animal lover

Twycross Zoo offers a range of Zoo Experience Days, perfect for the animal lover in your life. The venue’s animal-feeding experiences allow you to get up close and personal with some of your favourite ‘beasts’, while at the same time picking the brains of the knowledgeable keepers.

The Keeper For The Day experience, meanwhile (which includes a special junior option for those aged between seven and 17), is a hands-on adventure that will give you the chance to help the keepers take care of some of the zoo’s many and varied residents, including zebras and apes.

Prices start from £80 Find out more at twycrosszoo.org

For the culture vulture

Do you have a loved one who enjoys a trip to an art gallery?

A National Art Pass provides free entry to 800-plus museums, galleries and historic houses across the UK. It also gives you 50% off the entrance fee for major exhibitions.

National Art Pass costs £45 for under-30s, £73 for an individual and £110 for a double.

Find out more at artfund.org

Foodies and music fans, rejoice!

For the first time ever, ‘ultimate food & music festival’ Pub In The Park will be rolling into Leamington Spa next summer (30 June - 2 July).

The hugely popular event brings together award-winning restaurants, live music and great food for a fun-filled weekend. Bananarama, Toploader, Ronan Keating and Soul II Soul have already been announced, with more artists expected to be added to the live-music line-up in the coming months.

Tickets prices start from £27 Find out more at pubintheparkuk.com

Get your bake off

Anyone who sees themselves as the next Prue Leith or Paul Hollywood is sure to enjoy their very own Bake Off experience at The Big Birmingham Bake.

Working in pairs, with all the ingredients ‘good to go’ and a top baker at your side, you’ll have 90 minutes to ace the monthly baking theme and create the winning bake. Perfect for those looking to unleash their competitive cooking streak.

Prices start from £36.50 Find out more at thebigbirminghambake.com

The gift of glamping

If a relaxing getaway is on your Christmas wish list this year, Winchcombe Farm might be the perfect destination.

Nestled in the Warwickshire countryside, the site is surrounded by a working farm and features a selection of holiday homes which sleep from four people up to nine.

Guests can also make their stay extra special by adding on-site private dining experiences, cocktail classes or even spa treatments, all made available by local businesses.

Find out more at winchcombefarm.co.uk

For the thrill-seeker

Are you on the lookout for the perfect Christmas present to give to the thrill-seeker in your life?

Well look no further, because the gift you’re needing is surely a voucher for The Bear Grylls Adventure activity centre!

With 11 epic experiences from which to choose, including iFly, shark diving and the high ropes, visitors can plan an actionpacked day out to get that much-needed adrenaline fix.

Prices start from £30 Find out more at beargryllsadventure.com

Chin-chin with some gin!

Warwick’s That Gin Company is offering customers the chance to create and purchase their very own unique flavour infusions in 50ml, 250ml and 500ml bottles. Also on offer are gin gift sets - including three 250ml flavoured gins - and cocktail sets, which are supplied with a mini-shaker and enough ingredients for five cocktails.

Find out more at thatgincompany.co.uk

A night at the theatre...

Why not treat someone to a night out at the theatre? With no expiry date, Theatre Tokens can be used for a show they really want to see at more than 270 venues nationwide. Simply load the Theatre Token gift card with any value between £5 and £500, and the lucky recipient can then use it to pay or partpay for tickets to any production.

Find out more at theatretokens.com

For the music lover

There’s an abundance of live music happening across the Midlands next year, so why not treat a loved one to a ticket?

For the film buff

Everyman’s gift cards are the perfect present for anyone who loves a night in front of the big screen.

The cards can be topped up with any value you choose above £20. With a wide array of blockbusters, independent and classic films to enjoy, there’s something for everyone at Everyman. The gift cards are redeemable against all food & drink purchases and film screenings at any of Everyman’s 38 venues nationwide.

Find out more at everymancinema.com

Rock the boat!

If you have a loved one who enjoys the great outdoors, how about gifting them the opportunity to explore Birmingham’s famous canal network?

GoBoat is a fun, self-drive boating experience where you can play captain and choose your own route. Setting off from Brindleyplace, the boat fits up to eight people (dogs are also welcome!) and can take you on a one, two or three-hour adventure.

For the comedy fan

Give the gift of laughter this Christmas by purchasing a gift card to use at the Glee Club. You can buy gift cards from as little as £5 to put towards someone’s night out. The cards can be redeemed against all show tickets in all Glee Club venues, as well as food & drink in all of the venues (except Oxford).

Find out more at glee.co.uk

Relax and unwind

Four-star Warwickshire hotel Ardencote is the home of Destination Spa, a luxury attraction that comes complete with thermal facilities, relaxation lounges, an outdoor pool and a hot tub.

The spa, which was awarded a ‘bubble rating’ of five by the Good Spa Guide in 2021, offers a selection of day spa packages as well as overnight spa breaks, which include treatments, a two-course dinner and breakfast the following morning.

Find out more at ardencote.onejourney.travel

Don your leg warmers and double denim as the UK’s largest retro festival, Let’s Rock, returns to Shrewsbury on 15 July with some of the biggest names from the 1980s. The line-up announced so far includes Soft Cell, The Boomtown Rats, Soul II Soul and Midge Ure.

Tickets start from £52 Find out more at letsrockshrewsbury.com

Meanwhile, Forestry England’s series of live outdoor music concerts, Forest Live, will return to Staffordshire’s Cannock Chase Forest in June, with Madness (Thursday the 8th) and Jack Savoretti (Sunday the 11th) already announced.

Tickets start from £50 Find out more at forestryengland.uk/music

After a successful Shropshire debut, firm family favourite Camp Bestival will return to Weston Park from 17 to 20 August. Glaswegian heroes Primal Scream headline next year’s get-together, with drum’n’bass groovers Rudimental and synth-pop singalong legends The Human League also featuring in the 2023 line-up.

Tickets start from £70 Find out more at shropshire.campbestival.net

Giftcards start at £85 Find out more at goboat.co.uk

Support the arts

The Grand Theatre has been at the heart of Wolverhampton’s entertainment scene since 1894. As well as being a theatre, the venue acts as a charitable trust, seeking to engage with and enhance the local community via creativity, education and a passion for the arts.

To help support the Grand, you can name a brick (£100 for five years) in the Encore Lounge, with a dedication and message of your choosing. Alternatively you can sponsor a seat in the theatre’s auditorium (£200 for 10 years), and in so doing join the likes of Charlie Chaplin and Winston Churchill.

Find out more at grandtheatre.co.uk/support

Craftspace: Queer + Metals

Midlands Arts Centre (MAC), Birmingham, until Sun 2 April

The multiplicity of queerness is here explored via metalwork and metalsmithing, in an exhibition that makes visible the ways in which LGBTQIA+ creatives are shaping, disrupting and contributing to contemporary culture.

Featuring artworks, video interviews and an Instagram campaign, the Craftspace presentation aims to ‘make connections within a diverse, intersectional, complex and fluid community of making’.

The physical element of the exhibition features responses from eight UK artists, one of whom is Roxanne Simone.

Showcasing welded and hydroformed ‘imperfect’ objects (pictured), Roxanne’s work explores and reimagines identities formed through the impact of diaspora and migration.

Visual Arts previews from around the region

DearTomorrow: Dear Wolverhampton

Wolverhampton Art Gallery, until Sun 15 January “The very core of our work has always been to change hearts and minds through a deeper connection to the climate crisis,” explains Jill Kubit, the co-founder of DearTomorrow, the climate storytelling & arts project presenting this exhibition.

“We’ve learnt this comes most freely from pulling together the things that touch us most. Our community engagement exhibits allow people not only to consider

Radical Landscapes

Mead Gallery, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, until Sun 18 December

Organised in collaboration with Tate Liverpool, Radical Landscapes features more than 100 works by leading modern and contemporary artists, including Turner Prize 2022 nominees Ingrid Pollard and Veronica Ryan.

The exhibition looks beyond the lush green hills most readily associated with landscape art, reflecting instead on the diversity of the British landscape and the communities which inhabit it.

Focusing on a wide range of subjects, including activism, trespass and the climate emergency, the featured works illustrate the ways in which creatives have drawn new meanings from the land, using it to inspire ideas of freedom, experimentation, mysticism and rebellion.

what the climate crisis means on a personal and community level, but to establish climate actions that feel most meaningful and impactful to them. This is where real change starts.”

Bringing together art, photography, film, design and poetry, the exhibition ‘presents landscapes built and inspired by letters written by the Wolverhampton community’.

Alberta Whittle: We Gather And Dream Of New Congregations

Grand Union Gallery, Digbeth, Birmingham, until Sat 10 December

Alberta Whittle brings together public sculpture, film, workshops and community gardening with women’s groups ‘to address issues surrounding use and ownership of land, and to aid in the much-needed healing of our Birmingham community’.

As well as contemplating issues of poverty and inclusion, the exhibition also poses questions about the effectiveness of grassroots community building, direct community action and positive healing gardening practices.

A Birmingham 2022 Festival commission.

Dutch Flowers

Compton Verney, Warwickshire, until Sun 15 January

The 17th-century emergence of Dutch flower painting - a genre of art that saw Netherlandish painters produce work which exclusively depicted flowers - has been attributed in part to the development of scientific interest in botany and horticulture and the Dutch Golden Age phenomenon of ‘tulip mania’.

In the period which followed, Dutch flower painting blossomed, reaching the peak of its popularity in the late 18th century...

This fascinating exhibition traces the development of the genre and features a selection of paintings from the National Gallery’s collection. The show includes works by leading artists in the field, such as Ambrosius Bosschaert the Elder, Rachel Ruysch and Jan van Huysum.

Grown Up In Britain: 100 Years Of Teenage Kicks

Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, Coventry, until Sun 12 February

The everyday experiences and cultural impact of young people is celebrated in this long-running exhibition.

Featuring photographs, objects and stories, Grown Up In Britain has been curated by and drawn from the extensive photographic collections of the Museum of Youth Culture, an emerging organisation dedicated to the styles, sounds and social movements innovated by young people over the last 100 years.

The Museum has been gathering together photographs of youth and subculture movements for more than a quarter of a century. Its impressive collection includes everything ‘from the bomb-site bicycle racers in post-war 1940s London, to the Acid House ravers of 1980s northern England’.

Ambrosius Bosschaert the Elder: A Still Life of Flowers in a Wan-Li Vase on a Ledge with further Flowers, Shells and a Butterfly, 1609-10 © The National Gallery, London

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

Winter Funland

Don your festive jumper and get into the spirit of the season as the UK’s largest indoor Christmas funfair returns to the NEC. With all rides and attractions included in the ticket price, guests can enjoy everything from waltzers to dodgems, take a lap or two around the gigantic ice rink or head over to

the Christmas Circus to watch the clown and acrobats show off their skills.

At an additional cost, families can also visit Santa in his grotto, where the resident elves will be sprinkling some Christmas magic and each child will be given a special gift.

Events

Santa’s Grotto Experience

National SEA LIFE Centre, Birmingham, until Sat 24 December

Young festive-season visitors to the SEA LIFE Centre can check out over 2,000 creatures (including sharks, gentoo penguins and the UK’s first and only sea otters) before entering a glittering grotto where Santa and his elves will meet & greet them (not to mention hand them a gift to take home and enjoy!).

Ice Skate

Ice Skate Birmingham and the Big Wheel make a welcome return to Centenary Square for the festive season.

While the wheel offers the opportunity to enjoy fantastic views across the city, the weather-proofed ice rink accommodates up to 300 people per session.

Younger or inexperienced skating enthusiasts can keep upright by using special penguin skating aids.

And when skaters have finished their Torvill & Dean routine, they can warm themselves up with some festive fare in the nearby Ice Lounge and double deck rooftop bar.

Mini-Christmas In MiniBrum

Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum, Sat 3 & Sun 4 December

Little ones and their families are invited to join the Thinktank team to help decorate MiniBrum and the Christmas tree for the festive season.

There will also be an opportunity to take part in various craft activities, including designing your own Christmas card. Santa will be on hand too, while visitors can also check out the Elf Trail around the museum, which is included in the ticket price.

Christmas At The Commandery

The Commandery, Worcester, Sat 10 & Sun 11, Sat 17 & Sun 18, Tues 20 and Thurs 22 December

The Commandery is welcoming families for festive crafting sessions this month.

Little ones can make their very own gingerbread man decoration, get creative with gingerbread playdoh, and get stuck into some Christmas colouring. Every crafting session will end with a story, a drink and a biscuit.

NEC, Birmingham, Sat 10 December - Mon 2 January

Birmingham Centenary Square, Birmingham, until Sun 8 January

Events

beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

Enchanted Weston

Weston Park, Shropshire, Fri 9 - Sun 11 and Thurs 15 - Fri 23 December

Christmas attractions at Weston Park once again include the venue’s ‘illuminated forest’ experience.

Visitors to the estate’s Temple Wood can follow a trail of colour and light through the ancient trees and woodland.

But that’s not all. The venue is also making available an array of street food, local ales, fizz and warming winter cocktails, all on offer in the Stables Courtyard. Live music and fire pits (for marshmallow toasting) also feature.

Winter Glow

Three Counties Showground, Malvern, until Mon 2 January

Winter Glow returns with a mix of festive fun. Highlights include immersive themed light trail A Christmas Odyssey, transporting visitors from the depths of ancient Atlantis to the fanciful shores of festive islands.

The ever-popular Santa Experiences make a welcome return too (this year in an indoor location), while a new covered winter market (available to visit without a ticket) showcases a wide range of stalls and a fairground featuring fun rides for all ages.

A Bavarian-style bar, one of the region’s largest indoor ice rinks and the 120ft Malvern Observation Wheel further add to the event’s appeal.

Santa’s Magical

Grotto

Compton Verney, Warwickshire, Fri 9 - Fri 23 December

The elves have been hard at work creating an enchanting grotto at Compton Verney, and with everything now in place, it’s time for families to visit the venue and say a big hello to Father and Mother Christmas.

Children are encouraged to take along their

Christmas wish list to post at the on-site post box, from which delivery to the North Pole is guaranteed! And as is traditional with a visit to Santa, there’ll be a gift for every child... Tickets also include entry to the outdoor reindeer trail through the grounds.

Christmas In Cathedral Square

Birmingham Cathedral, until Sun 18 December Christmas In Cathedral Square has returned to Birmingham for the second year running. The award-winning event is situated in the grounds of Birmingham Cathedral.

The market provides a platform for local businesses and producers to showcase their goods in the run-up to Christmas, offering visitors a variety of craft, gift and food & drink stalls to enjoy.

It’s

West Midland Safari Park’s Santa Safari is back! The four-mile drive-through experience provides families with the chance to check out some of the venue’s wild animals.

At the end of the safari, visitors can head to the Discovery Trail, to meet one of Santa’s helpful elves. From there, it’s on to the Christmas grotto, to say a big festive hello to

the white-bearded one himself. Youngsters can take the opportunity to grab a picture with Santa and select a present from the elves’ workshop.

Mrs Claus will be on hand too, offering refreshments in her kitchen.

An opportunity to sample a fully immersive virtual-reality sleigh ride further adds to the festive fun.

Events

Visit Santa! Vintage Sleigh Experience

Coventry Transport Museum, Sat 3 - Fri 23 December

The Vintage Sleigh Ride experience returns to Coventry Transport Museum this month. Wander through a magical winter wonderland of festive activities and snowy scenes before taking a ride on an enchanting vintage sleigh pulled by two trusty reindeer. Your next stop? Lapland. Meet Santa, tell him your Christmas wishes and collect a special gift.

The Vintage Sleigh Ride experience includes museum admission tickets for the day of your visit.

Tamworth’s Snowdome will once again be transformed into a ‘winter wonderland’ this month.

Step into the Christmas Village - where you can say hello to Santa’s real-life furry friends - take a ride on the carousel, and visit Santa’s house, dropping off your list for the

big man along the way. Play and slide around in real snow on the Christmas trail, explore the enchanted forest, battle it out in a snowball fight and enjoy a ride on a sledge. Plus, Santa, Rudolph and the North Pole Players will perform brand-new stage show Alice In Winter Wonderland.

Sing Choirs Of Angels

Lichfield Cathedral, Fri 16 - Tues 20 December

This special light installation by acclaimed animation team Illuminos presents the story of the Nativity via O Come All Ye Faithful, the popular carol with a 19th-century link to Lichfield.

Visitors can check out three light shows around the Close and on the front of the cathedral, enjoy listening to popular carols, and warm up with seasonal food & drink.

Tickets also include access to the Christmas Tree Festival inside the cathedral, with more than 50 decorated trees on display.

Santa’s Winter Wonderland Snowdome, Tamworth, until Sun 1 January

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

Santa Safari West Midland Safari & Leisure Park, Bewdley, until Sat 24 December

Christmas Celebration Weekends

Cadbury World, Birmingham, weekends and school holidays until Fri 23 December

Festive celebrations are fully under way at Cadbury World, with the popular venue presenting a whole host of seasonal activities for families to enjoy, all of which come complete with that ever-important chocolately twist.

While Santa himself stars in an exclusive stage show, his super-helpful elves will be handing out gifts to young audience

members.

Visitors can also enjoy one of the 10 daily performances of this year’s pantomime, Cinderella.

The Santa stage show and panto are both included in the ticket price.

Before heading for home, be sure to swing by the World’s Biggest Cadbury Shop to pick up some handmade Christmas chocolates.

Events

Himley’s Magical Christmas Portal

Himley Hall & Park, Dudley, Wed 14 - Sun 18 December

Step through the magical portal in the courtyard of Himley Hall and brace yourself for festive-season adventure, complete with the chance to say hello to Father Christmas and receive a bespoke gift.

Other attractions for youngsters to enjoy include traditional funfair rides and festive children’s entertainment.

Food & drink stalls ensure visitors can keep themselves well-fuelled as they do some seasonal shopping in the Christmas market.

Christmas Bricktacular

Legoland Discovery Centre Birmingham, until Sat 24 December

Legoland Discovery Centre has undergone a festive makeover!

Christmas highlights include the chance to see the venue’s ever-popular Miniland transformed into a winter wonderland, and an opportunity to take part in a scavenger hunt to find all of Santa’s reindeers.

Families can try their hand at building a Christmas tree to add to the farm, and meet up with Lego Santa for a photo or two. The venue’s two rides, build & play zones and 4D cinema will also be available to enjoy.

Candlelit Christmas

Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Stratford-uponAvon, Thurs 8 - Sat 10 and Thurs 15 - Sat 17 December

This unique after-dark event features traditional Tudor music and dance performances, the chance to enjoy a candlelit tour of Shakespeare’s childhood home, and an opportunity to learn more about the festive-season traditions of the 16th century. Back in the present day, visitors can do a little Christmas shopping and try out the venue’s signature-edition Shakespeare Gin.

Glad Tidings Christmas Lates

Black Country Living Museum, Dudley, Fri 9 & Sat 10, Fri 16, Sat 17 & Sun 18 December

Explore Black Country Living Museum after dark, courtesy of a series of special Christmas evenings.

Visitors can wander the historic village and experience Christmases through time, from the Victorian era to the 1960s.

Choirs and bands will be out in full force, performing festive favourites, and visitors can also check out some of the museum’s popular food options.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

Santa’s Winter Wonderland at Snowdome, Staffordshire

Aljaz and Janette: A Christmas to Remember at Symphony Hall

Magical Santa Show at Tamworth Castle

Francis Foster at Stafford Gatehouse Theatre

Elf: A Christmas SpectacularResorts World Arena, Birmingham, Thurs

Thursday 1 - Sunday 4 December

THROUGHOUT DECEMBER

Visual Arts

Midlands Arts Centre, Birmingham

CRAFTSPACE: {QUEER} + {METALS}

The multiplicity of queerness is here explored via metalwork and metalsmithing, in an exhibition that makes visible the ways in which LGBTQIA+ creatives are shaping, disrupting and contributing to contemporary culture, until Sun 2 April

Wolverhampton Art Gallery

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR World-renowned exhibition capturing fascinating animal behaviour, spectacular species and the breathtaking diversity of the natural world, until Sun 24 Dec

Elsewhere:

LIFE Selection of figurative sketches produced by comic-book artist Charlie Adlard, until Fri 9 Dec, The Hive, Shrewsbury

THE MAGIC OF MIDDLE EARTH New exhibition featuring a treasure trove of more than 200 rare objects and artworks associated with or influenced by the fantasy world of JRR Tolkien, until Sat 11 Dec, The Hub @ St Mary’s, Lichfield

THE ANIMATED PUPPETS OF ‘HANA’S HELPLINE’ Exhibition looking at the stop-motion puppets from the animation series for pre-school children about a duck who runs a telephone helpline for young animals with problems, until Fri 6 Jan, Bantock House Museum, W’hampton

Gigs

JAMES BAY Thurs 1 Dec, O2 Institute, Birmingham

BABYBIRD + IAN PROWSE Thurs 1 Dec, O2 Institute, B’ham

Scouting For Girls - O2 Academy, Birmingham

EXPERIENCE Fri 2 Dec, Albert’s Shed, Shrewsbury

GRAYSON’S ART CLUB: THE EXHIBITION

III Major exhibition featuring over 100 artworks selected by Grayson Perry, Philippa Perry and guest celebrities during season three of the popular TV series, Grayson’s Art Club, Fri 2 Dec - Sun 23 April

New Art Gallery, Walsall

WALSALL SOCIETY OF ARTISTS Annual exhibition showcasing works in a wide range of media, until Sun 8 Jan BILLY DOSANJH, THE EXILES Billy draws on his lived experience and the rich and vibrant stories told by his family and community to explore what happens when cultures merge... until Sun 5 February

BREAKING THE MOULD Major touring exhibition challenging the maledominated narratives of post-war British sculpture by presenting a diverse and significant range of ambitious work by women, until Sun 16 April

The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery, Stoke-on-Trent

LOVELY JUBILEE: THREE CENTURIES OF ROYAL COMMEMORATION POTTERY Display of royal jubilee wares spanning three centuries, until 8 Jan MAJOLICA MANIA: TRANSATLANTIC POTTERY IN ENGLAND AND THE UNITED STATES, 1850 - 1915 This first major exhibition of its kind in four decades examines the brightly glazed earthenware made by a variety of British and American potteries, until Sat 29 Jan

DANCING TOGETHER APART Portrait exhibition of dancers in lockdown, taken by Ming de Nasty, winner of the 2021 Portrait of Britain awards, until Mon 9 January, Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery

ALICE IN WONDERLAND SCHOOLS’ EXHIBITION Annual showcase based around the theatre’s Christmas show, until Sat 28 Jan, New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme

LIFE AND WORK OF FRIDA KAHLO Immersive exhibition exploring the life and work of the iconic Mexican painter, until Sun 29 Jan, The Reel Store, Coventry

PETE TONG Thurs 1 Dec, Utilita Arena Birmingham

THE URBAN VOODOO MACHINE Thurs 1 Dec, The Robin, Bilston

RUTS DC + TV SMITH Fri 2 Dec, O2 Institute, Birmingham

MAVERICK SABRE Fri 2 Dec, O2 Institute, Birmingham

MAN MADE HELL + BAD FACE + TRICK OF THE LIGHT + BLUE THEORY + THRASHEAD Fri 2 Dec, O2 Institute, B’ham

SCOUTING FOR GIRLS Fri 2 Dec, O2 Academy, Birmingham

CAGE FIGHT Fri 2 Dec, The Asylum, B’ham

THE ELO ENCOUNTER Fri 2 Dec, The Rhodehouse, Sutton Coldfield

THE UPBEAT BEATLES Fri 2 Dec, Dudley Town Hall

THE WEEKENDERS Fri 2 Dec, Albert’s Shed, Southwater, Telford KID KLUMSY + JONNY & THE MENTAL BREAKDOWNS + MR BADAXE + HOMERSAPIEN Fri 2 Dec, Percy’s Cafe Bar, Whitchurch, North Shropshire

FAST REACTION + 3 STOREYS HIGH + NEVER SAY DIE + SKATCH Sat 3 Dec, O2 Institute, Birmingham

THE HU Sat 3 Dec, O2 Institute, Birmingham

FIRST AID KIT + LOLA KIRKE Sat 3 Dec, O2 Academy, Birmingham

ASAKE Sat 3 Dec, Forum, Birmingham

THE KILLAZ Sat 3 Dec, The Rhodehouse, Sutton Coldfield

JIVE TALKIN’ - BEE GEES TRIBUTE Sat 3 Dec, Dudley Town Hall

SWEDE DREAMZ - ABBA TRIBUTE Sat 3 Dec, The River Rooms, Stourbridge

Trent THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC - ABBA TRIBUTE Sat 3 Dec, Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Trent ROY ORBISON AND THE TRAVELLING WILBURYS EXPERIENCE Sat 3 Dec, Mitchell Arts Centre, Stoke-on-Trent

10CCLO Sat 3 Dec, The Hub at St Mary’s, Lichfield

THE ORIGINAL WANTED Sat 3 Dec, Albert’s Shed, Shrewsbury

GOOD TO GO Sat 3 Dec, Albert’s Shed, Southwater, Telford

GREENMATTHEWS Sat 3 Dec, Ludlow Assembly Rooms, South Shropshire

JOHN KIRKPATRICK Sat 3 Dec, SpArC Theatre, Bishops Castle, South Shropshire

WESTLIFE + LYRA Sat 3 - Sun 4 Dec, Utilita Arena Birmingham

BLACK BOMBERS + UNPLEASANT COMPANIONS Sun 4 Dec, Hare & Hounds, Birmingham

GROWN UP BRITAIN An exhibition that chronicles the everyday experiences and cultural impact of young people through photographs, objects and stories, until Sun 12 Feb, Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, Coventry

HALLS JUNIOR OPEN Celebration is the theme for this exhibition of works by pupils from Staffordshire and Shropshire schools, Thurs 1 DecThurs 26 Jan, The Granary, Weston Park, Shropshire

FLEETWOOD BAC Fri 2 Dec, The Robin, Bilston

DAVID LIVE - DAVID BOWIE TRIBUTE Fri 2 Dec, Eleven, Stoke-onTrent

ALFIE ROMEO BLUES BAND Fri 2 Dec, The Hub at St Mary’s, Lichfield

PAT FULGONI BLUES

G2 DEFINITIVE GENESIS Sat 3 Dec, The Robin, Bilston

JOHN D REVELATOR + BRIAN STONE, MATY TUSTIAN AND EWAN STEVENS + JESS SILK + DAN OTTEWELL + BLACKBALLED Sat 3 Dec, Katie Fitzgerald’s, Stourbridge

SACK SABBATH Sat 3 Dec, Eleven, Stoke-on-

CHARLIE BENNETT Sun 4 Dec, The Sunflower Lounge, Birmingham

HED PE Sun 4 Dec, The Flapper, Birmingham

LUKE HINGLEY AS MICHAEL BUBLÉ Sun 4 Dec, The Rhodehouse, Sutton Coldfield

SUPREME QUEENQUEEN TRIBUTE Sun 4 Dec, The Prince of Wales Theatre, Cannock

thelist

Classical Music

CBSO PLAYS STRAVINSKY, ELLINGTON & ROTA Featuring Kevin John Edusei (conductor) & Simon Höfele (trumpet). Programme includes works by Rota, Zimmermann, Ellington & Stravinsky, Thurs 1 Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham

BBC PHILHARMONIC: BEETHOVEN’S EMPEROR Featuring John Storgards (conductor) & Martin Roscoe (soloist), Fri 2 Dec, Victoria Hall, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent CHRISTMAS WITH ALED AND RUSSELL Fri 2 Dec, Symphony Hall, B’ham

BRITISH POLICE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: PROMS NIGHT SPECTACULAR! Sat 3 Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham

LUDLOW CHORAL SOCIETY: RALPH VAUGHAN WILLIAMS Sat 3 Dec, St Laurence’s Church, Ludlow, South Shropshire

LICHFIELD CATHEDRAL CHOIR: TIDINGS OF GREAT JOY Sat 3 Dec, Lichfield Cathedral

PHOENIX SINGERS: HAYDN’S HARMONIEMESSE AND MUSIC FOR ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS Featuring Clare Horgan (director), Hannah Fraser-Mackenzie (soprano), Lara Rebekah Harvey (contralto), Philip O’Connor (tenor) & Andrew Randall (bass), Sat 3 Dec, St Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury

EX CATHEDRA: BACH CHRISTMAS ORATORIO Featuring Ex Cathedra Choir & Baroque Orchestra, Jeffrey Skidmore (conductor), James Robinson (Evangelist), Margaret Lingas & Kate Trethaway (sopranos), Sacha Fullerton, Gabriella Liandu & Martha McLorinan (altos), Sebastian Hill (tenor), Lawrence White & Thomas Lowen (bass), Sun 4 Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham

Comedy

DUNCAN OAKLEY, PAUL RICKETTS, MIKE KEENAN & DAVE TWENTYMAN Thurs 1 Dec, Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek, Staffordshire

MARKUS BIRDMAN, SEAN MCLOUGHLIN, BEN HARRINGTON & STEPHANIE LAING Thurs 1 Dec, Lichfield Sports Club

SAM AVERY Thurs 1 Dec, Arena Theatre, Wolverhampton

IAN SMITH, MATT BRAGG, ROBERT WHITE & COMIC TBC Thurs 1 - Sat 3 Dec, The Glee Club, Birmingham

POLSKI KLUB COMEDY Sat 3 Dec, The Glee Club, Birmingham

SALLY-ANNE HAYWARD Sat 3 Dec, Stourbridge Town Hall

DANIEL SLOSS Sun 4 Dec, Birmingham Town Hall

JUSTIN MOORHOUSE Sun 4 Dec, Brewhouse Arts Centre, Burton upon Trent

Theatre

AN INSPECTOR CALLS JB Priestley’s classic thriller, until Sat 3 Dec, The Alexandra, Birmingham

THE SNOW QUEEN Amateur version of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic tale, until Sat 3 Dec, Prince Of Wales Theatre, Cannock

THE VICAR OF DIBLEY 2 Presented by The Nonentities Society, until Sat 3 Dec, The Rose Theatre, Kidderminster

CINDERELLA Festive favourite featuring ‘an abundance of audience participation’, until Sat 10 Dec, The Blue Orange Theatre, Birmingham ERIC’S CHRISTMAS TURKEY ‘Funpacked festive treat’ featuring ‘60s songs, laughter, dancing and ‘Christmas sparkle’, until Sat 10 Dec, New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-underLyme

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST A reimagining of the classic fairytale that promises to leave audiences ‘spellbound’, until Fri 16 Dec, The Old Rep, Birmingham

A CHRISTMAS CAROL Adrian Edmondson plays Ebenezer Scrooge in David Edgar’s critically acclaimed adaptation of Charles Dickens’ muchloved classic, until Sun 1 Jan, Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratfordupon-Avon

NATIVITY! THE MUSICAL Debbie Isitt’s heart-warming festive musical, until Sat 7 Jan, The Rep, Birmingham

ALICE IN WONDERLAND Lewis Carroll’s much-loved classic returns to the New Vic stage for Christmas, until Sat 28 Jan, New Vic Theatre, Newcastleunder-Lyme

FLARE PATH Royal Birmingham Conservatoire students present Terrence Rattigan’s wartime drama, Thurs 1 - Sat 3 Dec, Patrick Studio, Birmingham Hippodrome

LADIES IN LAVENDER Stourbridge Theatre Company present an amateur version of Shaun McKenna’s story about two sisters living in a close-knit Cornish fishing village in the 1930s, Thurs 1 - Sat 3 Dec, Stourbridge Town Hall

A CHRISTMAS CAROL AS TOLD BY JACOB MARLEY (DECEASED) Award-winning stage show telling Dickens’ classic

tale from the perspective of Scrooge’s deceased business partner. Adapted and performed by James Hyland, Sun 4 Dec, Crewe Lyceum Studio

Panto time

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Starring Iain Lauchlan as ‘Coventry’s favourite dame’, until Sat 7 Jan, Belgrade Theatre, Coventry

SNOW WHITE & THE SEVEN DWARFS Lichfield regular Sam Rabone is joined by Brian Wheeler (Star Wars) and Dean Whatton (Game Of Thrones) in this festive family favourite, until Sun 8 Jan, Lichfield Garrick

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Featuring: the legendary Dame, Brad Fitt; Tommy J Rollason (Britain’s Got Talent); Samantha Dorrance (Disney Channel); Jo Osmond (The Mandalorian); and Kane Oliver Parry (Matilda, West End), until Sun 8 Jan, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury

ALADDIN Festive family fun, Thurs 1Sun 4 Dec, Festival Drayton Centre, Market Drayton, North Shropshire

ALADDIN Festive treat featuring West End leading lady Zoe Birkett as Spirit of The Ring and Michael Greco (EastEnders) as the evil Abanazar. Tam Ryan (Wishee Washee), Ian Adams (Widow Twankey), Sofie Anné (Princess Jasmine), Duane Gooden (Genie) and Ian Billings (The Notary!) also star, Sat 3 Dec - Sat 7 Jan, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre

Kids Shows

DISNEY ON ICE PRESENTS DREAM BIG Join Moana, Maui, Anna, Elsa and the Disney Princesses in an ‘enchanting’ show filled with songs and stories, until Sun 4 Dec, Resorts World Arena, Birmingham

DEMON DENTIST Birmingham Stage Company presents David Walliams’ ‘jaw-dropping’ tale for children, until Sun 4 Dec, Crewe Lyceum Theatre

THE BEAR Pins And Needles’ heartwarming stage show, based on Raymond Briggs’ classic children’s book, until Fri 30 Dec, Midlands Arts Centre (MAC), Birmingham

THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR CHRISTMAS SHOW Four timeless stories brought to life in one ‘delightful show’, Thurs 1 - Sun 4 Dec, Brewhouse Arts Centre, Burton upon Trent

SANTA SAVES CHRISTMAS Jack’s beanstalk won’t grow and Cinderella’s glass slipper is broken. Can you help save Christmas in this ‘festive, musical, interactive adventure’?, Fri 2 - Sun 4 Dec, Mitchell Arts Centre, Hanley, Stokeon-Trent

SNOW A Christmas adventure for two to five-year-olds and their families, Sun 4 Dec, The Hub at St Mary’s, Lichfield

SANTA’S LOST PRESENTS Join Santa Claus, the Grinch and Elf On The Shelf to help find the missing presents, Sun 4 Dec, Brierley Hill Civic, Dudley

Dance

THE NUTCRACKER Birmingham Royal Ballet present Sir Peter Wright’s world-famous production, until Sat 10 Dec, Birmingham Hippodrome

Light Entertainment

THE RAT PACK CHRISTMAS SHOW Recreation of a festive show at The Sands in Las Vegas. Starring David Alacey (Lovejoy and Inspector Alleyn) as Frank

Drakeley

Sinatra, Paul

Disney On Ice - Resorts World Arena

(Inside Out) as Dean Martin and Central Television’s Des Coleman as Sammy Davis Jnr, Thurs 1 Dec, Tamworth Assembly Rooms

SHELL SUIT CHER: BELIEVE IN BINGO

Tracey Collins (aka Tina Turner Tea Lady & Audrey Heartburn) brings her weird and wonderful character to the stage for another game of bingo with a difference... Sat 3 Dec, Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham

Events

BIRMINGHAM FRANKFURT CHRISTMAS MARKET The largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany or Austria, offering a large range of traditional goods and gifts and a selection of tempting food & drink, until Fri 23 Dec, throughout Birmingham city centre

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION WEEKENDS Festive celebrations with a Santa stage show and this year’s pantomime, Cinderella, until Fri 23 Dec, Cadbury World, Birmingham

STEAM IN LIGHTS An immersive nighttime experience turning the Severn Valley into a colourful light trail, until Fri 23 Dec, Severn Valley Railway, Bewdley, Nr Kidderminster

MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS Meet Father Christmas and his elves in his traditional museum workshop, until Fri 23 Dec, Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery

CHRISTMAS BRICKTACULAR Take part in a scavenger hunt, build a Christmas tree and meet Lego Santa, until Sat 24 Dec, Legoland Discovery Centre Birmingham

SANTA’S GROTTO EXPERIENCE Get ready to dive into the ultimate underwater fish-massy adventure with Santa and his elves, until Sat 24 Dec, National SEA LIFE Centre, Birmingham

MAGICAL CHRISTMAS Meet Father Christmas himself, enjoy Santa’s House Party show in the 4D cinema,

and check out the resort’s many rides, until Sat 24 Dec, Drayton Manor Resort, Staffordshire

NORTH POLE ADVENTURE Enjoy a journey to the North Pole, with plenty of festive activities along the way, until Sat 24 Dec, National Forest Adventure Farm, Staffordshire

SANTA SAFARI Featuring a four-mile winter safari and a visit to Santa’s grotto, until Sat 24 Dec, West Midland Safari Park, Bewdley, Nr Kidderminster

XMAS @ LOWER DRAYTON FARM Complete the festive activities with the friendly elves before meeting Santa, until Sat 24 Dec, Lower Drayton Farm, Staffordshire

MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS Join Father Christmas and his loveable elves at Trentham’s North Pole, until Sat 24 Dec, Trentham Estate, Staffordshire

SANTA ISLAND EXPERIENCE An ‘enchanting’ boat journey across the lake to seek out the island of Santa and his elves, until Sat 24 Dec, Alderford Lake, Shropshire

SANTA’S WINTER WONDERLAND With real snow, real animals and the allnew winter wonderland show, until Sun 1 Jan, Snowdome, Tamworth

LUMINATE SHUGBOROUGH A ‘captivating light trail’ through the historic grounds of Shugborough Estate, until Sun 1 Jan, Shugborough Estate, Stafford

LIGHTOPIA The award-winning illuminated trail returns for 2022, until Mon 2 Jan, Alton Towers Resort, Staffordshire

LANTERN FESTIVAL Discover an epic lantern trail and explore the walkthrough areas of the park, until Sun 8 Jan, West Midland Safari Park, Bewdley, Nr Kidderminster LIGHTS IN THE WOODS Brand-new Christmas light trail featuring light spectacles and interactive displays, until Sun 8 Jan, Alderford Lake, Shropshire

SKATE BY THE LAKE Feel the magic this

Christmas and skate with your family and friends on a real undercover ice rink, until Sun 8 Jan, Alderford Lake, Shropshire

ICE SKATE BIRMINGHAM Enjoy an iceskate session or take a ride on the big wheel and marvel at the views across the city, until Sun 8 Jan, Centenary Square, Birmingham OTELEY CHRISTMAS MARKET Featuring local businesses selling a mixture of gifts and food & drink products, Thurs 1 Dec, Oteley Estate, Ellesmere, Shropshire CHRISTMAS LATES Wander through the historic streets, lit by heritage lanterns and festooned with garlands, swags and wreaths, Thurs 1 Dec, Blists Hill Victorian Town, Ironbridge ILLUMINATED ARBORETUM Follow Illuminated Arboretum through the gardens and enjoy the majesty of the venue at night, Thurs 1 - Sat 17 Dec, National Memorial Arboretum, Staffordshire

THE LUNA DRIVE IN WINTER CINEMA Park up under the stars and enjoy your favourite festive movie on the big screen, from the comfort of your own car, Thurs 1 - Thurs 22 Dec, NEC, Birmingham

ELF TRAIL A fun, elf-inspired trail around Thinktank. Can you find them all? Thurs 1 - Fri 23 Dec, Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum

THE CHRONICLES OF DUDLEY CASTLE Take a walk around the site before meeting Santa in the castle and seeing his reindeer prepare for the big day, Thurs 1 - Sat 24 Dec, Dudley Zoo & Castle

WINTER TILE DECORATING WORKSHOPS Learn and apply the traditional technique of tube-lining as you decorate your very own ceramic tile, Fri 2 Dec, Jackfield Tile Museum, Ironbridge

CHRISTMAS THROUGH TIME Climb on board and journey through the time tunnel to experience how Christmas has been celebrated though the ages, Fri 2 - Sun 4 Dec, Dudley Canal & Caverns

FOLLIES SAFARI Be whisked away in a Land Rover through the park before exploring Santa’s magical grotto in the caverns, Fri 2 - Fri 23 Dec, Hawkstone Follies, Shropshire

A SNOW PRINCESS CHRISTMAS Enjoy a singalong with the Snow Princesses before meeting Father Christmas, Fri 2 - Fri 23 Dec, Hoo Zoo & Dinosaur World, Shropshire

CHRISTMAS AT TRENTHAM A presentation designed to sprinkle a little Christmas magic, accentuate the flora & fauna, and provide the opportunity to see the stunning historic landscape in a world of light and colour, Fri 2 Dec - Sun 1 Jan, Trentham Estate, Staffordshire

CHRISTMAS FAIR AT BANTOCK A unique

Christmas shopping experience, with handmade gifts, crafts, food and much more, Sat 3 Dec, Bantock House, Wolverhampton

FESTIVE FAMILY FUNDAY Featuring Christmas crafts, presents and a photo with Santa, Sat 3 Dec, Brewhouse Arts Centre, Burton upon Trent

CHRISTMAS FOOD & CRAFT FAYRE Featuring over 100 artisan food and unique craft stalls, Sat 3 - Sun 4 Dec, Weston Park, Shropshire

MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS Father Christmas and his naughty elves will be waiting to meet families at the castle, Sat 3 - Sun 4 Dec, Ludlow Castle, South Shropshire

CHRISTMAS GIFT FAIR Browse the wide selection of stalls to find those special gifts for your family and friends, Sat 3 - Sun 4 Dec, Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms, South Shropshire

SANTA TRAINS Travel by vintage steam train to visit Santa, Sat 3 - Sun 4 Dec, Severn Valley Railway, Bewdley, Nr Kidderminster

ENCHANTED EXPRESS Inspired by the classic poem ’Twas The Night Before Christmas, enjoy a heritage steam train journey, Sat 3 - Sun 4 Dec, Severn Valley Railway, Bewdley, Nr Kidderminster

MERRY MAKERS Meet Christmassy characters and learn what elves, toy soldiers and even sugar plum fairies do to help the world get ready for this most magical time of year, Sat 3Sun 4 Dec, Black Country Living Museum, Dudley

VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS WEEKENDS Soak up the festive atmosphere as you listen to the carol singers and brass bands, pick up a treat from one of the shops and walk through streets filled with falling snow, Sat 3 - Sun 4 Dec, Blists Hill Victorian Town, Ironbridge

CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING WORKSHOP Create your own bespoke wreath for Christmas, Sat 3 - Sun 4 Dec, Stafford Castle

THE SANTA EXPERIENCE Santa and his elves bring festive entertainment to the farm, Sat 3 - Sat 24 Dec, Park Hall Farm, Oswestry

TREASURED CHRISTMAS Get into the festive spirit by visiting the 13thcentury castle, as lights and decorations illuminate the state rooms, Sat 3 - Sat 24 Dec, Powis Castle and Garden

CHRISTMAS MAKERS’ MARKET

Featuring a wide selection of handcrafted gifts by local artists, makers and crafts people, Sun 4 Dec, The New Art Gallery Walsall

SHROPSHIRE SANTA RUN A 5k fun run for all, raising funds for Lingen Davies, Sun 4 Dec, Oswestry, Shropshire

Santa’s Winter Wonderland - Snowdome, Staffordshire

Gigs

THE WANDERING HEARTS

Mon 5 Dec, The Robin, Bilston

DUCKWRTH Tues 6 Dec, O2 Institute, B’ham

THE BOOTLEG BEATLES

Tues 6 Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham

UB40 Tues 6 Dec, Victoria Hall, Stoke-onTrent

NOHUN Wed 7 Dec, O2 Academy, Birmingham

THE CURE Wed 7 Dec, Utilita Arena B’ham

THE DEAD DAISIES + FM + GRAHAM BONNET BAND Wed 7 Dec, KK Steel Mill, W’hampton

PLACEBO + CRUEL HEARTS CLUB Thurs 8 Dec, O2 Academy, Birmingham

ELECTRIC SIX Thurs 8 Dec, O2 Academy, Birmingham

BEING AS AN OCEAN Thurs 8 Dec, The Asylum, Birmingham

RICK WAKEMAN Thurs 8 Dec, Birmingham Town Hall

PAUL HEATON AND JACQUI ABBOTT + BILLY BRAGG Thurs 8 Dec, Resorts World Arena, Birmingham

BADBADNOTGOOD + LIL

SILVA + DAR DISKU Fri 9 Dec, O2 Institute, Birmingham

AC/DC EXPERIENCE + FU FIGHTERS Fri 9 Dec, O2 Academy, Birmingham

GUY CHAMBERS Fri 9 Dec, Birmingham Town Hall

BLUE + B*WITCHED + MEGAN MCKENNA Fri 9

Dec, Resorts World Arena, Birmingham

SYSTEM EIGHTIES Fri 9 Dec, The Rhodehouse, Sutton Coldfield

KILLERSTREAM Fri 9 Dec, The River Rooms, Stourbridge

MAET LIVE & THE NEVERLAND EXPRESS Fri 9 Dec, Eleven, Stoke-on-Trent

SOUL JUNCTION Fri 9 Dec, Tamworth Assembly Rooms

SONIC BOOM Fri 9 Dec, Albert’s Shed, Shrewsbury

INDIGO MACHINE Fri 9 Dec, Albert’s Shed, Southwater, Telford BLACK CLOWN + THIS ELEGANT CHAOS Fri 9 Dec, Percy’s Cafe Bar, Whitchurch, North Shropshire

ROD STEWART Fri 9 - Sat 10 Dec, Utilita Arena, Birmingham

RIMZEE Sat 10 Dec, O2 Institute, Birmingham KATE RUSBY Sat 10 Dec, Birmingham Town Hall

THE DUALERS Sat 10 Dec, Forum, B’ham

SPECIAL KINDA MADNESS Sat 10 Dec, The Rhodehouse, Sutton Coldfield

NOUGHTY NINETIES Sat 10 Dec, The River Rooms, Stourbridge MAGNUM Sat 10 Dec, KK Steel Mill, Wolverhampton

THE CHAMELEONS + THE MEMBRANES Sat 10 Dec, The Sugarmill, Stoke-on-Trent

THE KILLERZ Sat 10 Dec, Eleven, Stoke-on-

Trent

TONY CHRISTIE & RANAGRI Sat 10 Dec, Lichfield Guildhall

BARRY STEELE - THE ROY ORBISON STORY Sat 10 Dec, The Prince of Wales Theatre, Cannock

CHRIS GUMBLEY QUINTET Sat 10 Dec, The Hive, Shrewsbury

HOTROX Sat 10 Dec, Albert’s Shed, Shrewsbury

SUBATOMIC STRANGERS + HONEYTALKS + AUDIO DRONES Sat 10 Dec, Percy’s Cafe Bar, Whitchurch, North Shropshire

ALTER BRIDGE + HALESTORM + MAMMOTH WVH Sun 11 Dec, Resorts World Arena Birmingham

THE VAMPS Sun 11 Dec, Utilita Arena, Birmingham

RICK WAKEMAN Sun 11 Dec, Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Trent

SETH LAKEMAN Sun 11 Dec, Lichfield Guildhall

Classical

LUNCHTIME CHRISTMAS MUSIC WITH THE CHOIR OF ST JOHN’S CAMBRIDGE Featuring Andrew Nethsingha (conductor) & Thomas Trotter (organ), Mon 5 Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham

VOICES OF BLACK OPERA Mon 5 Dec, Birmingham Town Hall

PICCADILLY SINFONIETTA: VIVALDI’S FOUR SEASONS Featuring Warren Mailley-Smith (piano), Tues 6 Dec, Shrewsbury Abbey

CBSO PLAYS SHOSTAKOVICH’S FIFTH SYMPHONY Featuring Alpesh Chauhan (conductor) & Eugene Tzikindelean (violin). Programme includes works by Brahms, Nielsen & Shostakovich, Wed 7 Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham

EX CATHEDRA: CHRISTMAS MUSIC BY CANDLELIGHT Featuring Jeffrey Skidmore (conductor) & the Ex Cathedra Consort, Wed 7 Dec, Hereford Cathedral

IL DIVO Thurs 8 Dec, Utilita Arena Birmingham

Gatehouse Theatre

CHRIS BROOKER, DAN ANTOPOLSKI, JACK GLEADOW & DREW TAYLOR Fri 9 Dec, Crewe Lyceum

Theatre

A CHRISTMAS CAROL Adrian Edmondson plays Ebenezer Scrooge in David Edgar’s critically acclaimed adaptation of Charles Dickens’ much-loved classic, until Sun 1 Jan, Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon

GABBA GABBA HEY! Sun 11 Dec, Albert’s Shed,

HANDEL’S MESSIAH Featuring City of Birmingham Choir, CBSO conductor Adrian Lucas, Rebecca Hardwick (soprano), Hugh Cutting (counter tenor), Thomas Castle (tenor), Ashley Riches (bass), Thomas Trotter (harpsichord) & Christopher Allsop (chamber organ), Fri 9 Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham

EX CATHEDRA: CHRISTMAS MUSIC BY CANDLELIGHT Featuring Jeffrey Skidmore (conductor) & the Ex Cathedra Consort, Sat 10 Dec, St Peter’s Collegiate Church, Wolverhampton

HALESOWEN ORCHESTRA: A CHRISTMAS CONCERT Programme includes works by Tchaikovsky, Glazunov, Rimsky Korsakov & Leroy Anderson, Sat 10 Dec, Cornbow Hall, Halesowen SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS WITH WYNNE EVANS Sat 10 Dec, Shrewsbury Abbey

Comedy

THE ALTER COMEDY CLUB Wed 7 Dec, The Hub at St Mary’s, Lichfield ANDY ROBINSON, PHIL NICHOL, ALUN COCHRAN & COMIC TBC Thurs 8 - Sat 10 Dec, The Glee Club, Birmingham COMEDY IN THE MET Fri 9 Dec, Stafford

NATIVITY! THE MUSICAL Debbie

heart-warming

musical, until Sat 7 Jan, The Rep, Birmingham

DREAMGIRLS Award-winning musical telling the story of The Dreams - Effie, Lorrell and Deena - as they embark on a rollercoaster ride through the world of fame, fortune and the ruthless realities of showbusiness... Tues 6 - Sat 31 Dec, The Alexandra, Birmingham

HOBSON’S CHOICE Royal Birmingham Conservatoire students present a staging of Harold Brighouse’s humorous play, which offers an ‘entertaining yet insightful critique of the patriarchal system’, Thurs 8 - Sat 10 Dec, Patrick Studio, Birmingham Hippodrome

THE BAH HUMBUG CLUB A brand-new comedy play for Christmas, written by local writer Carolyn Scott-Jeffs, Thurs 8 - Tues 27 Dec, Lichfield Garrick

THE 39 STEPS & IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: A LIVE RADIO PLAY DOUBLE BILL Two classic stories presented in true ‘radio play’ style, complete with live foley sound effects, various dates between Fri 9 - Sat 24 Dec, Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham

Panto time

ALADDIN Festive treat featuring West End leading lady Zoe Birkett as Spirit of The Ring and Michael Greco (EastEnders) as the evil Abanazar. Tam Ryan (Wishee Washee), Ian Adams (Widow Twankey), Sofie Anné (Princess Jasmine), Duane Gooden (Genie) and Ian Billings (The Notary!) also star, until Sat 7 Jan, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre

SNOW WHITE & THE SEVEN DWARFS Lichfield regular Sam Rabone is joined by Brian Wheeler (Star Wars)

Isitt’s

festive

BELLA HARDY Sun 11 Dec, The Hive, Shrewsbury

Shrewsbury

UB40 - Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Trent

and Dean Whatton (Game Of Thrones) in this festive family favourite, until Sun 8 Jan, Lichfield Garrick

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Featuring: the legendary Dame, Brad Fitt; Tommy J Rollason (Britain’s Got Talent); Samantha Dorrance (Disney Channel); Jo Osmond (The Mandalorian); and Kane Oliver Parry (Matilda, West End), until Sun 8 Jan, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury

RAPUNZEL AND THE RASCAL PRINCE Fairytale favourite for the festive season, Tues 6 - Sat 31 Dec, Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS Starring Sam Attwater as the Prince, Ian Smith as Dame Dolly, Carl Dutfield as Muddles and Chloe Barlow as Snow White, Thurs 8 DecMon 2 Jan, Telford Theatre

CINDERELLA Polish off your pumpkins, dust off your gowns and join Prince Charming as he hosts the party of the year in search of his one true love... Fri 9 - Sat 31 Dec, Stafford Gatehouse Theatre

THE PANTOMIME ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN High-flying panto featuring Potteries regular Jonathan Wilkes alongside Kai Owen, Amanda Coutts, Rory Sutherland and Hannah Everest, Fri 9 - Sat 31 Dec, Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent

Kids Theatre

THE BEAR Pins And Needles’ heartwarming stage show, based on Raymond Briggs’ classic children’s book, until Fri 30 Dec, Midlands Arts Centre (MAC), Birmingham

JACK AND THE MAGIC BEANSTALK Fee-fifo-fum fun in a new staging of the much-loved fairytale. Suitable for children aged between three and six, Wed 7 - Sat 31 Dec, The Rep, B’ham

SNOW A Christmas adventure for two to five-year-olds and their families, Sat 10 Dec, Arena Theatre, Wolverhampton

SNOW PLAY Make a giant snowman, cover a whole house in snow and have a super snowball fight in this interactive family show, Sat 10 - Sun 11 Dec, Newhampton Arts Centre, Wolverhampton

THE UGLY DUCKLING & OTHER STORIES

A show comprising some of Hans Christian Andersen’s best-loved stories, Sat 10 - Sat 24 Dec, Lichfield Garrick

SANTA’S CHRISTMAS RESCUE Join Santa, Rudolph, Ellie the Elf and her best friend Izzy in this ‘Christmas cracker’ of a show for pre-school children, Sat 10 - Sat 24 Dec, Stafford Gatehouse Theatre

HORRIBLE CHRISTMAS Birmingham Stage Company take audiences on a

‘hair-raising’ journey through the history of Christmas in the company of Charles Dickens, Oliver Cromwell, King Henry VIII and St Nicholas - all of whom join forces to save the festive season, Sun 11 Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham

RUDOLPH’S LOST LIGHT Rudolph’s nose isn’t shining and Christmas may be cancelled! Can you lend a hand to help avert a crisis? Sun 11 Dec, Brierley Hill Civic, Dudley

Dance

THE NUTCRACKER Birmingham Royal Ballet present Sir Peter Wright’s world-famous production, until Sat 10 Dec, Birmingham Hippodrome ALJAZ AND JANETTE: A CHRISTMAS TO REMEMBER The Strictly stars are joined by dancers and singers for an evening of favourite festive hits - from the Golden Age of Hollywood to Disney Christmas crackers, Sat 10 Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham

Brewhouse Arts Centre, Burton upon Trent

FAIRYTALE OF NEW YORK Irish-inspired Christmas show featuring an international cast of singers, musicians and dancers, Wed 7 Dec, Prince of Wales Theatre, Cannock QUEENZ THE SHOW WITH BALLS Deathdropping divas present reimagined classics from The Spice Girls, Lady Gaga, Little Mix, Britney Spears and more... X Factor and Union J pop favourite Jaymi Hensley stars, Wed 7 Dec, Birmingham Town Hall

NEIL SANDS: CHRISTMAS MEMORIES Festive nostalgia featuring all-time favourite Christmas songs and carols, Thurs 8 Dec, Brewhouse Arts Centre, Burton upon Trent

THE ROCKY HORROR EXPERIENCE A ‘fun, naughty and live stage show featuring all the classics from the film’, Fri 9 Dec, Prince of Wales Theatre, Cannock

#BINGOHUN Expect ’90s girl group singalongs and dance routines, interspersed with three full games of prize bingo! Sat 10 Dec, The Hub at St Mary’s, Lichfield

THAT’LL BE THE DAY CHRISTMAS SHOW

Featuring festive pop classics, traditional Christmas songs, comedy sketches, impersonations and more... Sat 10 Dec, Victoria Hall, Stoke-onTrent

Talks & Spoken Word

AN EVENING WITH MONTY DON Spend an evening with the ever-popular writer & presenter as he shares his passion for gardens, Thurs 8 Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham

Light Entertainment

DEATH DROP 2: BACK IN THE HABIT Drag murder-mystery featuring a gaggle of nuns whose peace and tranquility is shattered when a serial slayer starts slashing their way through the sisters. Starring drag artists Cheryl Hole, River Medway, Victoria Scone and LoUis CYfer, Mon 5 - Sat 10 Dec, Crewe Lyceum Theatre

CRAFT YOUR CHRISTMAS WITH SARA DAVIES Featuring practical demonstrations, creative ideas and a healthy dose of Sara’s down-to-earth know-how... Tues 6 Dec, Birmingham Town Hall

A NIGHT AT THE MUSICALS Students from Theatre Cats Stage School present an evening of songs from popular West End and Broadway shows, Tues 6 - Wed 7 Dec,

Events

CHRISTMAS LATES Wander through the historic streets, lit by heritage lanterns and festooned with garlands, swags and wreaths, Thurs 8 Dec, Blists Hill Victorian Town, Ironbridge

GLAD TIDINGS CHRISTMAS LATES

Gather around the fires and enjoy the merry atmosphere as you sing carols, check out traditional crafts and listen to Christmas stories, Fri 9Sat 10 Dec, Black Country Living Museum, Dudley

CHRISTMAS THROUGH TIME Climb on board and journey through the time tunnel to experience how Christmas has been celebrated though the ages, Fri 9 - Sun 11 Dec, Dudley Canal & Caverns

ENCHANTED WESTON As night falls, Temple Wood is transformed into a magical illuminated forest, Fri 9 - Sun 11 Dec, Weston Park, Shropshire

A GEORGIAN CHRISTMAS FOOD TOUR A ‘tasty’ tour of Soho House, exploring the food and traditions of a Georgian Christmas, Sat 10 Dec, Soho House, Birmingham

CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK Live music, fair rides and festive food & drink to get you in the Christmas spirit, Sat 10 Dec, Haden Hill Park, Cradley Heath

CASTLE BY CANDLELIGHT Wander through the decorated-for-Christmas candlelit castle, Sat 10 - Sun 11 Dec, Tamworth Castle

LKA CHAMPIONSHIP DOG SHOW The Ladies Kennel Association hosts its annual show, Sat 10 - Sun 11 Dec, NEC, Birmingham

MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS Father Christmas and his naughty elves will be waiting to meet families at the castle, Sat 10 - Sun 11 Dec, Ludlow Castle, South Shropshire

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Meet Santa and his elves and take home a gift, Sat 10 - Sun 11 Dec, Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms, South Shropshire

‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’ GUIDED TOURS Revisit some of the stunning film locations featured in the iconic 1984 film adaptation of A Christmas Carol, Sat 10 - Sun 11 Dec, Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery

VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS WEEKENDS Soak up the festive atmosphere as you listen to the carol singers and brass bands, pick up a treat from one of the shops and walk through the streets filled with falling snow, Sat 10 - Sun 11 Dec, Blists Hill Victorian Town, Ironbridge

ENCHANTED EXPRESS Heritage steam train journey inspired by the classic poem ’Twas The Night Before Christmas, Sat 10 - Sun 11 Dec, Severn Valley Railway, Bewdley

SANTA TRAINS Travel by vintage steam train to visit Santa, Sat 10 - Sun 11 Dec, Severn Valley Railway, Bewdley

TALE TRAIL TO WONDERLAND An interactive storytime adventure for children aged between three and five, Sat 10 - Sat 31 Dec, New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme

WINTER FUNLAND The largest indoor funfair in the UK, boasting an iceskating rink, a circus, Santa’s grotto, a craft arena and a full-sized fairground made up of more than 40 rides, Sat 10 Dec - Mon 2 Jan, NEC, Birmingham

RAGGED VICTORIANS Meet some characters from the lower levels of society and discover the harsh reality of life for the Victorian poor, Sun 11 Dec, Gladstone Pottery Museum, Stoke-on-Trent

THE CHRISTMAS BIG SING A night of festive song, raising funds for Black Country Foodbank, Sun 11 Dec, Dudley Town Hall

Classical

A CBSO CHRISTMAS CAROL WITH ALAN TITCHMARSH Also featuring Simon Halsey (conductor) & CBSO Choruses. Programme includes works by Scheidt, Rutter, Traditional, Cunningham, Chillcott, Cornelius, Marsh, Twigg, Timon, Mendelssohn; arr Wilcocks, Anderson, Lane, Bridge, Lee; Arr. Sebba; Pentatonix; arr Brymer; Battiwalla, Esenvalds & Wade; arr Ledger, Thurs 15 - Fri 16 Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham

Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent

DARK TALES IN WINTER 2022 Two chilling tales adapted for the stage by a contemporary playwright and brought to life by talented performers, Wed 14 - Fri 16 Dec, Arena Theatre, Wolverhampton

A CHRISTMAS CAROL Saltmine Theatre Company present an amateur production of Charles Dickens’ festive classic, Thurs 15 Dec, Stourbridge Town Hall

FIVE CHILDREN AND IT Modern reimagining of E Nesbit’s much-loved children’s tale, Sat 17 - Sun 18 Dec, The Rose Theatre, Kidderminster

Panto time

Gigs

THY ART IS MURDER + MALEVOLENCE + KING 810 + JUSTICE FOR THE DAMNED + ALLUVIAL Mon 12 Dec, O2 Institute, Birmingham GILBERT O’SULLIVAN Mon 12 Dec, Birmingham Town Hall

POP UP JAZZ Mon 12 Dec, Bill’s Kitchen, Ludlow, South Shropshire

CHAMELEONS Tues 13 Dec, O2 Institute, Birmingham CARNIFEX + CHELSEA GRIN + VARIALS + THE CONVALESCENCE + BODYSNATCHER Tues 13 Dec, O2 Academy, Birmingham

BAD WOLVES Tues 13 Dec, The Asylum, Birmingham

THE ALBION BAND Tues 13 Dec, New Vic Theatre, Newcastleunder-Lyme

GREENMATTHEWS Tues 13 Dec, Wem Town Hall, North Shropshire

CLUTCH + TIGERCUB + GREEN LUNG Wed 14 Dec, O2 Academy, Birmingham

COLLABRO Wed 14 Dec, Birmingham Town Hall

MICHAEL HEAD & THE RED ELASTIC BAND Wed 14 Dec, Newhampton Arts Centre, Wolverhampton

TALON Wed 14 Dec, Stoke Repertory Theatre, Stoke-onTrent

DOUG EUNSON AND

SARAH MATTHEWS Wed 14 Dec, Brewhouse Arts Centre, Burton upon Trent

FRIENDLY FIRE BAND Thurs 15 Dec, Hare & Hounds, Birmingham PUSHA T Thurs 15 Dec, O2 Institute, B’ham

LAMB OF GOD + KREATOR + THY ART IS MURDER + GATECREEPER Thurs 15 Dec, O2 Academy, Birmingham

SKINNY LISTER + BERRIES + TOM JENKINS Thurs 15 Dec, KK’s Steel Mill, Wolverhampton THERAPY? + REWS Thurs 15 Dec, The Sugarmill, Stoke-onTrent

EAST 17 Thurs 15 Dec, Victoria Hall, Stoke-onTrent

SETH LAKEMAN Thurs 15 Dec, Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek, Staffs

DAN OWEN Thurs 15 Dec, Shrewsbury Abbey

THE MAJOR TOMS + THE ENIGMA STRINGS Fri 16 Dec, Hare & Hounds, Birmingham

JOEY BADA$$ Fri 16 Dec, O2 Academy, Birmingham

OASIIS Fri 16 Dec, The Rhodehouse, Sutton Coldfield

VEGA Fri 16 Dec, The Robin, Bilston

STONE BROKEN + KIRA MAC + ASHEN REACH Fri 16 Dec, KK’s Steel Mill, Wolverhampton KINGDOM OF MADNESS

Fri 16 Dec, Newhampton Arts Centre, W’hampton

THE ELVIS EXPERIENCE Fri 16 Dec, Tamworth Assembly Rooms

BOSTON MANOR + CALVA LOUISE Fri 16 Dec, The Sugarmill, Stoke-on-Trent U2UK Fri 16 Dec, Eleven, Stoke-on-Trent

THE MAGIC OF MOTOWN Fri 16 Dec, Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Trent

SYD LAWRENCE ORCHESTRA Fri 16 Dec, Stoke Repertory Theatre, Stoke-onTrent

DIRTY ROCKIN’ SCOUNDRELS Fri 16 Dec, Albert’s Shed, Shrewsbury

BLACK BEAR KISS Fri 16 Dec, Albert’s Shed, Southwater, Telford

GOOD HABITS Fri 16 Dec, Bitterley Village Hall, South Shropshire OCTOPUS MONTAGE + THIS PARTY SUCKS! Fri 16 Dec, Percy’s Cafe Bar, Whitchurch, North Shropshire

THE STONES Fri 16Sun 18 Dec, Theatre On The Steps, Bridgnorth

THE BOB MARLEY REVIVAL Sat 17 Dec, O2 Academy, B’ham THE TWANG + JAWS + OVERPASS + THE EFFENENAAR Sat 17 Dec, O2 Academy, Birmingham EMMA BUNTON & FRIENDS Sat 17 Dec, Symphony Hall,

Comedy

DYLAN MORAN, MIKE WOZNIAK, ROSIE JONES, CELYA AB & JOHN ROBINS Tues 13 Dec, Birmingham Town Hall ALLYSON SMITH, GARRETT MILLERICK, TOM WARD & MICKEY D Thurs 15 - Sat 17 Dec, The Glee Club, Birmingham ANDREW O’NEILL, RICKY BALSHAW, JOHN NEWTON & ROB MULHOLLAND Fri 16 Dec, Brewhouse Arts Centre, Burton upon Trent

LOL COMEDY CLUB Sat 17 Dec, Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent

Theatre

DREAMGIRLS Award-winning musical telling the story of The Dreams - Effie, Lorrell and Deena - as they embark on a rollercoaster ride through the world of fame, fortune and the ruthless realities of showbusiness... until Sat 31 Dec, The Alexandra, Birmingham

A CHRISTMAS CAROL Adrian Edmondson plays Ebenezer Scrooge in David Edgar’s critically acclaimed adaptation of Charles Dickens’ much-loved classic, until Sun 1 Jan, Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon

NATIVITY! THE MUSICAL Debbie Isitt’s heart-warming festive musical, until Sat 7 Jan, The Rep, Birmingham ELF Stage Screen presents an amateur production of the festive classic, Mon 12 Dec, Brewhouse Arts Centre, Burton upon Trent

THE GREAT DICKENSIAN CHRISTMAS Presented by Scarlet Theatre, Mon 12 - Tues 13 Dec, Stoke Repertory

CINDERELLA Polish off your pumpkins, dust off your gowns and join Prince Charming as he hosts the party of the year in search of his one true love...until Sat 31 Dec, Stafford Gatehouse Theatre

RAPUNZEL AND THE RASCAL PRINCE Fairytale favourite for the festive season, until Sat 31 Dec, Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

THE PANTOMIME ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN High-flying panto featuring Potteries regular Jonathan Wilkes alongside Kai Owen, Amanda Coutts, Rory Sutherland and Hannah Everest, until Sat 31 Dec, Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent

SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS Starring Sam Attwater as the Prince, Ian Smith as Dame Dolly, Carl Dutfield as Muddles and Chloe Barlow as Snow White, until Mon 2 Jan, Telford Theatre

ALADDIN Festive treat featuring West End leading lady Zoe Birkett as Spirit of The Ring and Michael Greco (EastEnders) as the evil Abanazar. Tam Ryan (Wishee Washee), Ian Adams (Widow Twankey), Sofie Anné (Princess Jasmine), Duane Gooden (Genie) and Ian Billings (The Notary!) also star, until Sat 7 Jan, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre

SNOW WHITE & THE SEVEN DWARFS Lichfield regular Sam Rabone is joined by Brian Wheeler (Star Wars) and Dean Whatton (Game Of Thrones) in this festive family favourite, until Sun 8 Jan, Lichfield Garrick

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Featuring: the legendary Dame, Brad Fitt; Tommy J Rollason (Britain’s Got Talent);

Lamb Of God - O2 Academy

THE BREWOOD SINGERS Concert of seasonal words and music, Sat 17 Dec, St Chad’s Church, Pattingham

Samantha Dorrance (Disney Channel); Jo Osmond (The Mandalorian); and Kane Oliver Parry (Matilda, West End), until Sun 8 Jan, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Familyfriendly pantomime, Wed 14 - Mon 26 Dec, Ludlow Assembly Rooms, South Shropshire

CINDERELLA Rags-to-riches panto, Fri 16 - Sun 31 Dec, Mitchell Arts Centre, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Follow hero Jack as he battles the Giant and his evil sidekick, Fleshcreep, in a bid to rescue the princess, Sat 17 - Wed 28 Dec, Prince of Wales Theatre, Cannock

DICK WHITTINGTON Lavish pantomime featuring Marti Pellow, Matt Slack, Dr Ranj, Suzanne Shaw, Doreen Tipton and Andrew Ryan, Sat 17 Dec - Sun 29 Jan, Birmingham Hippodrome

Kids Theatre

THE BEAR Pins And Needles’ heartwarming stage show, based on Raymond Briggs’ classic children’s book, until Fri 30 Dec, Midlands Arts Centre (MAC), Birmingham

SANTA SAVES CHRISTMAS Jack’s beanstalk won’t grow and Cinderella’s glass slipper is broken. Can you help save Christmas in this ‘festive, musical, interactive adventure’? Mon 12 Dec, Tamworth Assembly Rooms

TALES FROM ACORN WOOD AT CHRISTMAS Children’s show packed full of ‘toe-tapping songs, puppetry, and all your friends from Acorn Wood’, Tues 13 - Sat 31 Dec, Birmingham Hippodrome

SANTA IN LOVE Fun-filled family musical complete with ‘games, giggles and all your favourite Christmas songs’, Fri 16 - Sat 24 Dec, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury

Light Entertainment

THE RAT PACK CHRISTMAS SHOW Recreation of a festive show at The Sands in Las Vegas. Starring David Alacey (Lovejoy and Inspector Alleyn) as Frank Sinatra, Paul Drakeley (Inside Out) as Dean Martin and Central Television’s Des Coleman as Sammy Davis Jnr, Tues 13 Dec, Dudley Town Hall

THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL: FILM WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA Wed 14 Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham THE SNOWMAN AND THE SNOWDOG: FILM WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA The animated sequel to The Snowman is

screened alongside a live concert orchestra and followed by Christmas pop songs and carols, Sat 17 Dec, Birmingham Town Hall

TRES TRES CHRISTMAS A ‘silly and saucy night to remember’, Sat 17 Dec, The Hub at St Mary’s, Lichfield

A CHRISTMAS WASSAIL A festival of choral music, solo songs, spoken word and comedy, Sat 17 Dec, Hartlebury Castle, Nr Kidderminster

THE NUTCRACKER & THE SNOWMAN WITH TOSCANA STRINGS Join Toscana Strings and former Birmingham Royal Ballet soloist Laura Tye as they present festive stories through music and dance, Sun 18 Dec, Jennifer Blackwell Performance Space, Symphony Hall, Birmingham

THE D-DAY DARLINGS: A CHRISTMAS TO REMEMBER Festive show for all the family, Sun 18 Dec, Tamworth Assembly Rooms

THE SNOWMAN LIVE! Film screening with a live orchestra, Sun 18 Dec, Dudley Town Hall

Events

SANTA AT THE VALLEY (TODDLERS SPECIAL) Visit Santa and his elves in his magical grotto, Tues 13 - Wed 14 Dec, Sandwell Valley Visitors Centre

HIMLEY’S MAGICAL CHRISTMAS PORTAL Take a journey to find Father Christmas via the magic portal at Himley Hall, Wed 14 - Sun 18 Dec, Himley Hall & Park, Dudley

ENCHANTED WESTON As night falls, Temple Wood is transformed into a magical illuminated forest, Thurs 15Fri 23 Dec, Weston Park, Shropshire

CHRISTMAS LATES Wander through the historic streets, lit by heritage lanterns and festooned with garlands, swags and wreaths, Fri 16 - Sat 17 Dec, Blists Hill Victorian Town, Ironbridge

GLAD TIDINGS CHRISTMAS LATES

Gather around the fires and enjoy the merry atmosphere as you sing carols, check out traditional crafts and listen to Christmas stories, Fri 16 - Sun 18 Dec, Black Country Living Museum, Dudley

THE POLAR EXPRESS™TRAIN RIDE An immersive re-creation inspired by the iconic 2004 film, Fri 16 - Sun 18 Dec, Telford Steam Railway

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL Fri 16 - Sun 18 Dec, St Chad’s Church, Pattingham, Nr Wolverhampton

SING CHOIRS OF ANGELS A light show telling the joyful story of the Nativity through the popular carol, O Come All Ye Faithful, Fri 16 - Tues 20 Dec, Lichfield Cathedral

CHRISTMAS THROUGH TIME Climb on board and journey through the time tunnel to experience how Christmas

has been celebrated though the ages, Fri 16 - Fri 23 Dec, Dudley Canal & Caverns

CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING WORKSHOP Make your own Christmas wreath with the help of an experienced floristry tutor, Sat 17 Dec, Gladstone Pottery Museum, Stoke-on-Trent

CREATIVE SATURDAYS Print your own wrapping paper and gift accessories, Sat 17 Dec, The New Art Gallery Walsall

A GEORGIAN CHRISTMAS FOOD TOUR A ‘tasty’ tour of Soho House, exploring the food and traditions of a Georgian Christmas, Sat 17 Dec, Soho House, Birmingham

KIDS CHRISTMAS RAVE ON A familyfocused rave experience and creative space, where the youngest (and oldest!) of ravers will be able to express themselves, Sat 17 Dec, Brewhouse Arts Centre, Burton upon Trent

CHRISTMAS EVENING Enjoy the festive season with this Christmas event at the new Pavilion building, Sat 17 Dec, West Smethwick Park

MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS Father Christmas and his naughty elves will be waiting to meet families at the castle, Sat 17 - Sun 18 Dec, Ludlow Castle, South Shropshire

‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’ GUIDED TOURS Revisit some of the stunning film locations featured in the iconic 1984

SANTA TRAINS Travel by vintage steam train to visit Santa, Sat 17 - Sun 18 Dec, Severn Valley Railway, Bewdley

ENCHANTED EXPRESS Enjoy a heritage steam train journey inspired by the classic poem ’Twas The Night Before Christmas, Sat 17 - Sun 18 Dec, Severn Valley Railway, Bewdley, Nr Kidderminster

MAGICAL SANTA SHOW Join Santa and his elves for a fun-packed show full of festive cheer, songs and merriment, Sat 17 - Tues 20 Dec, Tamworth Castle

COALBROOKDALE WINTER WONDERLAND Explore the enchanted forest as you search for Santa and his elves, Sat 17 - Fri 23 Dec, Coalport China Museum, Ironbridge

SANTA AT THE VALLEY Visit Santa and his elves in his magical grotto, Sat 17 - Fri 23 Dec, Sandwell Valley Visitors Centre

CHRISTMAS CAROLS An evening of traditional Christmas carols, Sun 18 Dec, National Memorial Arboretum, Staffordshire

FESTIVE FAMILY DAY All-weather racing at one of Britain’s busiest racecourses is combined with a pantomime version of Robin Hood, Sun 18 Dec, Wolverhampton Racecourse

film adaptation of A Christmas Carol, Sat 17 - Sun 18 Dec, Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery

Magical Santa Show - Tamworth Castle

Nativity! The Musical - The Rep, Birmingham

Monday 19 - Saturday 31 December

Classical

LUNCHTIME ORGAN CONCERT WITH THOMAS TROTTER: SING CAROLS WITH THE CITY ORGANIST Featuring Jeremy Nicholas (compére) & Birmingham Cathedral Choir, Mon 19 Dec, Birmingham Town Hall

EX CATHEDRA: CHRISTMAS MUSIC BY CANDLELIGHT Featuring Jeffrey Skidmore (conductor), Ex Cathedra Consort plus Rupert Jeffcoat & Nicholas Wearne (organs), Mon 19Fri 23 Dec, St Paul’s Church, Birmingham

EX CATHEDRA: ANGELS, STARS & KINGS FAMILY CONCERT Featuring Ex Cathedra Academy of Vocal Music, Rebecca Ledgard & Suzzie Vango (conductors) & Nicholas Wearne (organ), Wed 21 Dec, St Paul’s Church, Birmingham

Gigs

JOOLS HOLLAND WITH VIC REEVES & ROLAND

GIFT Mon 19 - Tues 20 Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham

STEVE HARLEY & COCKNEY REBEL Tues 20 Dec, Birmingham Town Hall

FRED ZEPPELIN Tues 20 Dec, The Robin, Bilston

MIKE APPLETON AS MICHAEL BUBLÉ Wed 21 Dec, The River Rooms, Stourbridge

FRANKIE VALLI STORY Wed 21 Dec, The Robin, Bilston

LICHFIELD JAZZ BIG BAND Wed 21 Dec, Lichfield Guildhall

MIDNIGHT CITY SOUL BAND Thurs 22 Dec, The Rhodehouse, Sutton Coldfield

DECADES BAND Thurs 22 Dec, The River Rooms, Stourbridge

ROB LAMBERTI AS GEORGE MICHAEL Thurs 22 Dec, The Robin, Bilston

FLASH - QUEEN TRIBUTE Thurs 22 Dec, The Buttermarket, Shrewsbury

THE CLAUSE + THE K’S Fri 23 Dec, O2 Institute, Birmingham

NATHAN DAWE + VIBE CHEMISTRY + YUNG FILLY + TALIA MAR + SWEET FEMALE ATTITUDE + TYRONE Fri

23 Dec, Utilita Arena Birmingham

GORDON HENDRICKS AS ELVIS Fri 23 Dec, Dudley Town Hall FLASH - QUEEN TRIBUTE Fri 23 Dec, The Robin, Bilston

SLEEP IN MOTION Fri 23 Dec, Katie Fitzgerald’s, Stourbridge

WHITE TYGER + MYSTIEK + THE HOT ONE TWO + JAYLER + SISTERS OF SPIN Fri 23 Dec, KK’s Steel Mill, Wolverhampton MARTIN SPEAKE Fri 23 Dec, Newhampton Arts Centre, Wolverhampton

THE DEVOUT - DEPECHE MODE TRIBUTE Fri 23 Dec, Eleven, Stoke-onTrent

THE TRANSPORTERS Fri 23 Dec, Albert’s Shed, Shrewsbury SKABURST Fri 23 Dec, Albert’s Shed, Southwater, Telford

SWEDE DREAMZ - ABBA TRIBUTE Fri 23 - Sat 24 Dec, The River Rooms, Stourbridge

THE BLACK COUNTRY BEATLES Sat 24 Dec, The Robin, Bilston BALAAM AND THE ANGEL + DAWN AFTER DARK Tues 27 Dec, O2 Institute, Birmingham

FLASH - QUEEN TRIBUTE Tues 27 Dec, The River Rooms, Stourbridge ULTIMATE 40 - UB40 TRIBUTE Tues 27 Dec,

The Robin, Bilston

BAD MANNERS Tues 27 Dec, KK’s Steel Mill, Wolverhampton

WHITESNAKE’S JOURNEY Tues 27 Dec, Eleven, Stoke-on-Trent

ABBA REUNION Wed 28 Dec, The Robin, Bilston

DIRTY DC + GUNS N’ ROSES EXPERIENCE + DIZZY LIZZY + FOREVER SABBATH + MOTOR KILL Wed 28 Dec, KK’s Steel Mill, W’hampton

THE FREDDIE & QUEEN EXPERIENCE Wed 28 Dec, Eleven, Stoke-onTrent

HOMETOWN - ADELE TRIBUTE Thurs 29 Dec, The River Rooms, Stourbridge

APPY MUNDAYS + ABSOLUTE STONE ROSES + THE JONESES Thurs 29 Dec, Eleven, Stokeon-Trent

THE BOY GEORGE EXPERIENCE Fri 30 Dec, The Rhodehouse, Sutton Coldfield DECADES BAND Fri 30 Dec, The River Rooms, Stourbridge

MEL DAY Fri 30 Dec, The Robin, Bilston MAETLIVE Sat 31 Dec, The Robin, Bilston GLAM 45 Sat 31 Dec, Eleven, Stoke-on-Trent GLITCHERS + SLACKRR + ALIEN FEELINGS Sat 31 Dec, Percy’s Cafe Bar, Whitchurch, North Shropshire

A SWINGING CHRISTMAS WITH THE CBSO Featuring Michael England (conductor) & Alice Fearn, Tim Howard & Rob Houchen (vocalists), Wed 21 Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham

Comedy

IGNACIO LOPEZ, PHIL NICHOL, JOE BATES & NIK COPPIN Tues 20 Dec, Lichfield Sports Club

FRANCIS FOSTER Wed 21 Dec, Stafford Gatehouse Theatre

world of fame, fortune and the ruthless realities of showbusiness... until Sat 31 Dec, The Alexandra, Birmingham

A CHRISTMAS CAROL Adrian Edmondson plays Ebenezer Scrooge in David Edgar’s critically acclaimed adaptation of Charles Dickens’ much-loved classic, until Sun 1 Jan, Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon

NATIVITY! THE MUSICAL Debbie Isitt’s heart-warming festive musical, until Sat 7 Jan, The Rep, Birmingham

Panto time

THE PANTOMIME ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN High-flying panto featuring Potteries regular Jonathan Wilkes alongside Kai Owen, Amanda Coutts, Rory Sutherland and Hannah Everest, until Sat 31 Dec, Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent

RAPUNZEL AND THE RASCAL PRINCE Fairytale favourite for the festive season, until Sat 31 Dec, Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

CINDERELLA Polish off your pumpkins, dust off your gowns and join Prince Charming as he hosts the party of the year in search of his one true love... until Sat 31 Dec, Stafford Gatehouse Theatre

SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS

Starring Sam Attwater as the Prince, Ian Smith as Dame Dolly, Carl Dutfield as Muddles and Chloe Barlow as Snow White, until Mon 2 Jan, Telford Theatre

ALADDIN Festive treat featuring West End leading lady Zoe Birkett as Spirit of The Ring and Michael Greco (EastEnders) as the evil Abanazar. Tam Ryan (Wishee Washee), Ian Adams (Widow Twankey), Sofie Anné (Princess Jasmine), Duane Gooden (Genie) and Ian Billings (The Notary!) also star, until Sat 7 Jan, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre

SNOW WHITE & THE SEVEN DWARFS

KANE BROWN, NABIL ABDULRASHID, RICHARD BLACKWOOD & SLIM Tues 27 Dec, The Glee Club, Birmingham

COMEDY CAROUSEL WITH ANDY ROBINSON & COMICS TBC Thurs 29 Dec, The Glee Club, Birmingham

TOM WARD, MICKEY D, ANDY ROBINSON & COMIC TBC Fri 30 - Sat 31 Dec, The Glee Club, Birmingham

LOL COMEDY CLUB Sat 31 Dec, Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent

Theatre

DREAMGIRLS Award-winning musical telling the story of The Dreams - Effie, Lorrell and Deena - as they embark on a rollercoaster ride through the

Lichfield regular Sam Rabone is joined by Brian Wheeler (Star Wars) and Dean Whatton (Game Of Thrones) in this festive family favourite, until Sun 8 Jan, Lichfield Garrick

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Featuring: the legendary Dame, Brad Fitt; Tommy J Rollason (Britain’s Got Talent); Samantha Dorrance (Disney Channel); Jo Osmond (The Mandalorian); and Kane Oliver Parry (Matilda, West End), until Sun 8 Jan, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury

DICK WHITTINGTON Lavish pantomime featuring Marti Pellow, Matt Slack, Dr Ranj, Suzanne Shaw, Doreen Tipton and Andrew Ryan, until Sun 29 Jan, Birmingham Hippodrome

SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVERN DWARFS

Jools Holland - Symphony Hall

ROY ‘CHUBBY’ BROWN Thurs 22 Dec, Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Trent MATT BRAGG & COMICS TBC Thurs 22Fri 23 Dec, The Glee Club, Birmingham

Presented by DE Caversmill Theatre Company, Tues 20 - Fri 23 Dec, Stoke Repertory Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent

ELF: A CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR A panto with a difference, based on the hit Will Ferrell movie and featuring Santa’s flying sleigh, an audience snowball fight, an indoor snowstorm, a giant candy cane journey from the North Pole, aerial cirque stars, and giant TV screens to ensure you don’t miss a moment, Thurs 22 - Fri 23 Dec, Resorts World Arena, Birmingham

Centre (MAC), Birmingham TALES FROM ACORN WOOD AT CHRISTMAS Children’s show packed full of ‘toe-tapping songs, puppetry, and all your friends from Acorn Wood’, until Sat 31 Dec, Birmingham Hippodrome

THE GIFT Join grumpy astronaut Noli for a big adventure in a new puppet production for very young audiences, Mon 19 - Wed 21 Dec, Brewhouse Arts Centre, Burton upon Trent

THE GRUFFALO Tall Stories presents its ever-popular stage show based on Julia Donaldson’s bestselling children’s book. This new version is performed by a cast of both deaf and hearing actors, Tues 27 Dec - Sun 15 Jan, Birmingham Town Hall

Light Entertainment

Christmas show featuring an international cast of singers, musicians and dancers, Fri 23 Dec, Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Trent

A DICKENSIAN CHRISTMAS Toast the Christmas spirit with Charles Dickens in a show featuring Victorian carols and a selection of readings from A Christmas Carol, Fri 23 Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham

THE D-DAY DARLINGS: A CHRISTMAS TO REMEMBER Festive show for all the family, Fri 23 Dec, Halesowen Cornbow Hall

CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR Festive extravaganza featuring music, dance, lights and spectacle, Sat 24 Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham

THE BEST OF JOHN WILLIAMS Concert celebrating the iconic scores of one of Hollywood’s favourite composers, Wed 28 Dec, Symphony Hall, B’ham

Kids Theatre

THE BEAR Pins And Needles’ heartwarming stage show, based on Raymond Briggs’ classic children’s book, until Fri 30 Dec, Midlands Arts

MASSAOKE CHRISTMAS SPECIAL The UK’s biggest mass karaoke, supercharged with videos and giant singalong lyrics, Wed 21 Dec, Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Trent

FAIRYTALE OF NEW YORK Irish-inspired

THE GREATEST SHOWTUNES Celebrate the best of West End and movie musicals with this concert of ‘the greatest show tunes of all time’, Thurs 29 Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham

THE MUSIC OF ZIMMER VS WILLIAMS The London Concert Orchestra perform music by two of the greatest

film composers of all time, Fri 30 Dec, Symphony Hall, Birmingham

Events

CHRISTMAS THROUGH TIME Climb on board and journey through the time tunnel to experience how Christmas has been celebrated though the ages, Mon 19 - Fri 23 Dec, Dudley Canal & Caverns

CHRISTMAS CRAFTS AND STORYTELLING Festive craft activities in the morning, with storytelling by local author Danny Thompson in the afternoon, Tues 20 - Wed 21 Dec, Tamworth

Assembly Rooms

THE POLAR EXPRESS™TRAIN RIDE An immersive re-creation inspired by the iconic 2004 film, Tues 20 - Fri 23 Dec, Telford Steam Railway

ENCHANTED EXPRESS Heritage steam train journey inspired by the classic poem ’Twas The Night Before Christmas, Fri 23 - Sat 24 Dec, Severn Valley Railway, Bewdley, Nr Kidderminster

TOY COLLECTORS FAIR Tues 27 Dec, NEC, Birmingham