We’ve scoured the county to bring you the top events taking place this month

Leaves on the Line

Two individual stories, two lives connected by one moment. A baby is abandoned on a deserted railway platform. There is a young woman who decides to give up her baby and an older woman who finds it; a decision that derails and changes the direction of both their lives. With the abandoned railway lines, heritage stations and derelict platforms of Hampshire’s railway history forming the backdrop, don’t miss this intriguing new play from The Forest Forge Theatre Company.

When: March 17, 7.30pm

Where: The Lights, West Street, Andover, 01264 368368, thelights.org.uk

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Doris Day Tribute

Don’t miss this tribute to a great star. Clare Teal and her 16-piece Hollywood band are proud to present a very special celebration of the music of the much-loved Doris Day to mark the great lady’s 90th birthday this year. The show takes in aspects of Doris’ long and varied career and includes many of the songs that music lovers associate with Doris such as Secret Love, Move Over Darling and Que Sera Sera (What Will Be Will Be).

When: March 27, 7.45pm

Where: The Anvil, Churchill Way, Basingstoke, RG21 7QR, 01256 844244, www.anvilarts.org.uk

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Martha Tilston

Having carved her niche in the English folk scene with sharp, original songs Martha Tilston returns with a brand new album. ‘The Sea’, featuring traditional songs, is already receiving critical acclaim. Thought of as box of treasures, it includes guest appearances from family members and songs inspired by childhood friends, including the legendary Bert Jansch.

When: March 31

Where: Wedgewood Room, 147b Albert Road, Southsea, PO4 0JW, 02392 863911, www.wedgewood-rooms.co.uk

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A History of Comedy

The three man comedy troupe that make up the Reduced Shakespeare Company are back with their latest show. They’ve already skewered history, the Bible and the world’s most celebrated playwright; and now they are tackling the subject they were born to reduce – comedy. From high-brow to low, the trio deconstruct the history of comedy in 90 rib-tickling minutes

When: March 6, 7.30pm

Where: The Berry Theatre, Wildern Lane, Hedge End, SO30 4EJ, 02380 652333, www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

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Award-winning Comedy

Accolades include winner of The BBC New comedy award, Chortle Best Newcomer and star of BBC 3’s Live at the Electric, so you’d be a fool to miss Lucy Beaumount’s We Can Twerk it Out debut show in Fareham this month. Spend an hour in Lucy’s universe with her unique blend of surreal, offbeat humour and big belly laughs. Expect adult themes and language.

When: March 18, 7.30pm

Where: Ashcroft Arts Centre, Osborn Road, Fareham, PO16 7DX, 01329 223100

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Back to Black

A gripping theatrical exploration of terror, The Woman in Black has already captivated over 7 million people since its original debut. Now you can feel the power for yourself and experience this spine-chiller as it graces the south coast. Based on Susan Hill’s acclaimed ghost story, it comes to dramatic life in Stephen Mallatratt’s ingenious stage adaptation - expect to be scared out of your witts!

When: March 9-14

Where: Kings Theatre, Albert Road, Southsea, Portsmouth, PO5 2QJ, 02392 828282, kingsportsmouth.co.uk

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Celebrating the Sea

Embrace our country’s maritime heritage and celebrate the sea! The Royal Society of Marine Artists (RSMA) is holding a selling exhibition featuring many of the country’s leading artists on the subject. With the sea as the main source of inspiration, witness a multitude of styles and mediums, as well as subject matter.

When: March 7 to April 18

Where: St Barbe Museum & Art Gallery, Lymington, SO41 9BH, 01590 676969, stbarbe-museum.org.uk

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Pies and Prejudice

Late Georgian food was exciting, delicious and a way of displaying identity. Witness food historian Dr Annie Gray cook some of the dishes from the era which would have been familiar to Jane Austen, showing why we should celebrate the cuisine of the period along with its literature.

When: March 22, 11am - 3pm

Where: Jane Austen’s House Museum, Winchester Road, Chawton, Alton, GU34 1SD, 01420 83262, www.jane-austens-house-museum.org.uk

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Blood Lines

Interest in genealogy has grown enormously, and many people are tracing their family history. Let resident genealogist Christine Russell guide you on your journey as she hosts an informative talk on how to take the first steps in this exciting quest, including tips on how to identify the best sources to consult, how to make best use of the internet, and how to plan out a family tree.

When: March 12, 7.45pm

Where: The Spring Arts & Heritage, 56 East Street, Havant, PO9 1BS, 02392 472700, thespring.co.uk

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Mothering Sunday

Celebrate Mothering Sunday with something a little different. Back by popular demand, The Vyne’s bijou craft fair treats mums to a lovely day of delectable gifts, from jewellery to skincare. Younger visitors can join in with craft-making activities and create something really special for mums. Why not check out the 16th-century Brewhouse restaurant? Their menu is brimming with edible treats, including cream teas and freshly baked cakes.

When: March 15, 10am – 4pm

Where: The Vyne, Vyne Road, Sherborne St John, Basingstoke, RG24 9HL, 01256 883858, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/vyne

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READ ON

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