We’ve scoured the county for some of the best events to enjoy this month

EXHIBITION

• Until 11 January - The Visual Expression of Thought

This exhibition at the Café at Russell-Cotes Gallery & Museum, Bournemouth

showcases the work by artists from the South West who all use drawing in their artistic practice.

• 10 January – 14 March - Dorset: A Contemporary Response

From its inception in 1920, the Bournemouth Arts Club has provided a focus of excellence for the visual arts. This exhibition at Dorset County Museum features the latest work from this extraordinary group.

• 24 January – 14 March - Jason Miller

Dorset artist Jason Miller exhibits new works ranging from smaller sculptures and watercolours to large abstract paintings at Lighthouse, Poole.

• Until 18 April - Dorset’s Church Treasure

This fascinating exhibition of ecclesiastical silver at Dorset County Museum tells the story of 2000 years of Christianity from a Dorchester Roman spoon to the Coombe Keynes Chalice loaned from the Victoria and Albert Museum.

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PERFORMANCE

• 16 January - Omid Djalili

The award-winning comedian is back on tour following a sell-out season at the Edinburgh Festival.

Bournemouth Pavilion 0844 576 3000

• 18 January - Dr Livingstone, I Presume?

Miracle Theatre combines a hurrah to derring do and courage and a firm swipe at the 19th century ideals of imperialism, chauvinism and hypocrisy.

The Exchange, Sturminster Newton 01258 475137

• 22 – 25 January - Snow White on Ice

The brilliant Russian Ice Stars take you on a magical journey to the heart of one of the best loved fairy tales of all time in this stunning production. Bournemouth Pavilion 0844 576 3000

• 27 January - Sun

Hofesh Schecter, one of the UK’s most exciting contemporary choreographers, takes to the stage.

Lighthouse, Poole 0844 406 8666

• 31 January - Stardust

A guarded stone wall separates a quiet village from the magical land of Faerie but then a shooting star falls and so begins the adventure of a lifetime.

Lighthouse, Poole 0844 406 8666

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MUSIC

• 1 & 10 January - Viennese Gala

Waltzes, gallops, polkas and marches are all on the menu of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra’s traditional New Year’s Concert at Weymouth and Poole.

1 Jan 3pm & 7pm: Lighthouse Poole 0844 406 8666; 10 Jan 7.30pm: Weymouth Pavilion 01305 783225

• 4 January - New Year Viennese Concert

The award-winning Bournemouth Concert Brass return to Regent Centre in Christchurch for an afternoon concert of toe-tapping waltzes, polkas and marches.

Box Office 01202 499199.

• 10 January - New Year Concert

Christchurch U3A ‘Vintage Brass Band’ performs a cabaret-style New Year celebration at the Beaufort Centre, Southbourne at 3pm.

• 24 January - Three Degrees

The world’s longest running female vocal soul group celebrate 50 years together. Weymouth Pavilion

01305 783225

• 30 January - Tosca

London Festival Opera perform highlights from Puccini’s great masterpiece as well as a celebrated arias and ensembles from across the world of opera.

Layard Theatre, Wimborne 01202 847525

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BEST OF THE REST

• Until 4 January - Festival of Winter Walks

Step out with the Ramblers at this national event and explore your local area. Download a walk, short or long, from Ramblers Routes at ramblers.org.uk/winterwalks

• Until 6 January - Skate Under the Stars

Bournemouth’s Lower Gardens are lit up by the award-winning Gardens of Light with an ice rink, exciting interactive sound and light pods and a time machine!

• 14- 18 January - Faulty Towers: The Dining Experience

Basil, Sybil and Manuel serve a 70s style three course meal to a somewhat nervous audience at the

Lighthouse, Poole 0844 406 8666

• 21 January - Time Travellers

A fascinating morning walk through Studland’s history, followed by lovely lunch at the Knoll Beach Cafe.

Booking Essential 01929 450500.

• 24 January - Beach Clean

Join the winter beach clean (2pm -3.30-pm) at the Fine Foundation Kimmeridge.

• 27 January - Sir Chris Bonington

Britain’s greatest mountaineer shares thrilling stories from his extraordinary high altitude life.

Regent Christchurch 01202 499199

• 29 January - I’m Sorry I Haven’t a Clue

BBC Radio’s multi award-winning antidote to panel games comes to Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre with Barry Cryer, Graeme Garden, Tim Brooke-Taylor, Jeremy Hardy and guest host Sandi Toksvig. Have your kazoo and swanee at the ready!

Box Office 0844 576 3000

• 29 January - Adventure Film Festival

Showcasing the best in extreme sports and adventure films.

Lighthouse, Poole

0844 406 8666

• Until 22 February - Cool Coast Ice Rink Take to the ice at this indoor rink at Purbeck Hall at the BIC Booking 0844 576 3000

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READ ON

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