Our guide to the best events in and around Lancashire during April
THEATRE & DANCE
Until 1st
Searching for Doctor Branovic
The Hall Players present this play by David Tristam. Emma Tyler mourns the sudden and unexpected death of her husband. But all is not as it seems and, deep in the bowels of a nearby hospital, something stirs. Enter Detective Monroe, who soon finds himself in the middle of another mystery, which threatens to unhinge his sanity.
The Parish Hall, Fulwood, Preston, 01772 863801
1st-23rd
Beauty and the Beast
Regal Entertainments present their Easter pantomime. Get ready to go on an adventure and follow Belle as she falls in love with the most unexpected of princes.
St Helens Theatre Royal, 01744 756000
4th-8th
Running Wild
Michael Morpurgo’s novel, based on a true story, is brought to life in this award-winning production, complete with life-sized puppets, telling an emotional and moving story of love, loss and loyalty and living for the moment.
The Grand Theatre, Blackpool, 01253 290190
5th-8th
Granny Annie
Preston Drama Club present this comedy by Frank Vickery. In this behind the scenes peek at the world of amateur dramatics we see romance, petty jealousy and threats. But when the young lady playing the part of Annie and her understudy are struck down with measles, the group need to find a replacement quickly. Follow the adventures of possibly the worst amateur dramatic company ever as they prepare for the opening of their latest musical production – which promises to be the biggest theatrical disaster of all time.
Preston Playhouse, 01772 744771
Until 8th
The Perfect Murder
With crippling debts and a loveless 20 year marriage to Joan, Victor Smiley finally snaps and hatches a plot to get rid of his wife forever. Things don’t however go according to plan and Victor is about to get a nasty surprise.
Little Theatre, Southport, 01704 530521
8th
The Amazing Bubble Man
Louis Pearl, the amazing bubble man, on tour with a unique show that explores the breathtaking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and artistry with audience participation and enough spellbinding bubble tricks to keep everyone mesmerised.
The Guild Hall, Preston, 01772 804444
Until 8th
The Commitments
Coronation Street legend Kevin Kennedy stars as Jimmy Da in this show, packed with more than 20 classic soul songs performed live on stage and which tells the tale of Jimmy Rabbitte, a young, working class music fan who shapes an unlikely bunch of amateur musicians into an amazing live act.
The Palace Theatre, Manchester, 0844 971 3019
Until 8th
Yank!
A new musical – a World War II love story which tells the story of Stu, a scared mid-western youngster who is called up in 1943. He becomes a photographer for Yank magazine, the journal ‘for and by the serviceman. The musical explores what it is to be a man and what it is to fall in love and struggle.
Hope Mill Theatre, Ancoats, www.hopemilltheatre.co.uk
12th
Goldilocks & The Three Bears
Northern Ballet present this perfect opportunity for little ones to enjoy live ballet, music and theatre for the first time.
The Dukes Theatre, Lancaster, 01524 598500
13th-29th
Spring and Port Wine
Rafe Crompton is a strict father who struggles to control his rebellious children as they swing into the sixties. His wife, Daisy, uses all her wits to keep the family together but secrets are coming out of the woodwork fast and furious.
Oldham Coliseum, 0161 624 2829
18th-22nd
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat
Bill Kenwright’s amazingly well received production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s sparkling family musical.
The Charter Theatre, Preston, 01772 804444
Until 22nd
The Tenant of Wildfell Hall
Anne Bronte’s classic tale has been adapted for the stage. In 19th century Yorkshire a mysterious young widow Helen Graham and her son arrive at the desolate estate of Wildfell Hall. Isolating herself from the village, she soon becomes the subject of local gossip and speculation.
The Octagon Theatre, Bolton, 01204 520661
Until 22nd
William Wordsworth
A Theatre by the Lake and English Touring Theatre co-production. It’s spring 1812 and in the parlour of Grasmere Rectory amongst the piles of washing, smoking chimneys and children running riot, William Wordsworth writes…
Theatre by the Lake, Keswick, 017687 74411
24th-29th
Wonderland
Enchanting musical adaptation of Lewis Caroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through The Looking Glass, with a huge heart, a medley of magic and a whole lot of wonder. It is an adventurous exploration of who we are, who we want to be and the power of everyday magic in our lives.
The Palace Theatre, Manchester, 0844 871 3019
24th-May 13th
How My Light Is Spent
Set in a small town in Wales, this play explores the relationship between Jimmy and Kitty and the joy of finding someone who might just really ‘see’ you.
The Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester, 0161 833 9833
25th-29th
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
One of the Bard’s funniest and most popular plays has been adapted by Helen Jeffery and this timeless comedy promises to dazzle audiences with an unforgettable tale of love and adventure.
The Epstein Theatre, Liverpool, 0844 888 4411
26th-May 6th
Capture the Castle
A new musical based on the novel by Dodie Smith. Set in the Bohemian England of the 1930s, Dodie Smith’s worldwide, bestselling classic is a warm and sharply funny coming-of-age story.
The Octagon Theatre, Bolton, 01204 520661
27th-May 6th
The Island
In South Africa it was forbidden to mention that The Island existed. It was a place where you put the people you wanted to forget. It was a place where people began to forget themselves. Two men, unlikely friends, stagger through days of pointless prison work, living for nights of memories and imagined, dreamlike joy. With just scraps from their cell, they prepare for a performance of Antigone in front of the prisoners and guards – an act of political defiance from people who have lost everything they have to lose. Just like Antigone herself.With gut-wrenching emotion and exquisite, stripped down simplicity, this great drama of defiance and determination draws on the stories that linger from Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was held prisoner for 27 years.
The Dukes Theatre, Lancaster, 01524 598500
28th-May 6th
Rumours
SDC present Neil Simon’s hilarious comedy. At a large townhouse outside London, Charley, a prominent government official, lies injured with a flesh wound after shooting himself and his wife is nowhere to be seen. His lawyer, Ken, must get the ‘story’ straight before the other guests arrive. As the confusions and miss-communications mount the evening spins off into classic farcical hilarity.
Little Theatre, Southport, 01704 530521
Until April 29th
Bat Out Of Hell
Spectacular new musical – a romantic adventure about rebellious youth and passionate love, set against the backdrop of a post-cataclysmic city adrift from the mainland.
The Opera House, Manchester, www.batoutofhellmusical.com
MUSIC & CONCERTS
1st
Celebration Through The Centuries
The Allegri Singers present this concert spanning five centuries of celebratory sacred music.
Holy Trinity Church, Brathay (and St James’ Church, Arnside on 2nd)
7th
An Audience with Lesley Garrett
A delightful evening of song, reminiscences and chat from this beloved performer from a career that has spanned more than 30 years.
St George’s Hall, Liverpool, 0844 800 0410
15th
Back to the 80s Live
Featuring 80s stars, Katrina from Katrina and the Wave, Paul Young, Sonia, Tight Fit, Nathan Moore of Brother Beyond, Hazell Dean and Kelly Wilde – all performing their biggest hits live on stage.
The Guild Hall, Preston, 01772 804444
21st
John Harle and Steve Lodder with guest Jess Gillam
Featuring brand new works, this concert is a unique opportunity to hear music by some of the most influential composers of today, by the master of saxophone at the peak of his powers.
Coronation Hall, Ulverston, 01229 587140
21st
Fleetwood Bac
The world’s first and allegedly best Fleetwod Mac tribute band, endorsed by Mick Fleetwood himself, faithfully recreate the band’s Rumours line-up.
The Atkinson, Southport, 01704 5333333
22nd
Country and Bluegrass Jamboree
Venues across Chatburn play host to the first Country and Bluegrass Music Jamboree in the area with several top groups performing foot-tapping, melodic rhythmns, including Union Central, The Grove Band and Britannia Blue Grass as part of the Ribble Valley Music Festival.
For more information call 01254 384893
23rd
The 100 Voices of Gospel
The internationally-renowned gospel choir present this concert which is above all a great show that combines singing, music and dance.
King George’s Hall, Blackburn, www.seetickets.com
26th
Mediterranean Sounds
Clitheroe Concerts Society present this concert by Australian-Taiwanese pianist Belle Chen who will play composistions ranging from the lyrical melodies of France to the passionate rhythms of Andalucia and Catalonia in the first half and move east in the second half with sounds from the religious and serene Italy, homage to Balkan folklore and Turkish popular song.
Clitheroe Royal Grammar School Sixth Form Centre, www.clitheroeconcerts.org
COUNTY DAYS OUT
5th-6th
Easter Activity
Craft-based family activities using natural materials and inspired by Brantwood’s gardens.
Brantwood, Coniston, 015394 41396
8th
Plant Hunters’ Fair
New plant hunters’ fair in aid of Hoghton Tower Preservation Trust. The plants are lovingly grown by specialist nurseries and these enthusiastic plants people are on hand to give honest, straightforward advice on choosing and growing the right plants for your garden.
Hoghton Tower, near Preston, www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk
9th
Garstang Auto Jumbles
Car and bike autojumbles with outdoor and indoor pitches, well established since 1997.
Hamilton House Farm, Garstang, www.garstangsutojumbles.co.uk
16th
Holker Plant Fair & Food Market
Flower Power Fairs bring together some of the very best northern plant specialists and growers for a fantastic spring fair. Accompanying the floral event will be a local food producers market sampling some of the finest artisanal produce the north west has to offer, from handmade breads and cakes to preserves and cheeses.
Holker Hall & Gardens, Cark-in-Cartmel, 015395 58328
22nd-May 1st
Ulverston WalkFest
The town of Ulverston is once more hosting a series of walks and activities over a ten day period. The programme has been carefully chosen so there are walks to appeal to all ages and abilities of between one mile and ten. Many walks will take in local and industrial history and give walkers an insight into the rich heritage of the area while others take advantage of the surrounding hills and Lakeland Fells. Each walk will be led by a volunteer local walk leader.
www.ulverstonwalkfest.co.uk
21st – 23rd April
Great British Food Festival at Stonyhurst College.
This fantastic food festival is back at Stonyhurst, with over 100 food stalls, Man V Food, live chef demos from Bake Off stars, Kids Cookery lessons, circus workshop and live music throughout the day, its the perfect place for a family foodie day out.
Don’t forget KIDS GO FREE ON FRIDAY. For tickets and info go to www.greatbritishfoodfestival.com
25th
Fashion Show
Alexandra’s, Lakeland and Songbird Bridal of Keswick present this fashion show with tickets (£10) including cocktails and canapés.
The Parish Church of Keswick St John, Keswick, tickets available from the above shops
30th-May 1st
Lancaster Food and Drink Festival
More than 40 high quality local growers, producers, foodies and retailers, showcase their tasty goodies in marquees and gazebos and those who love their food will be treated to all manner of free samples, savoury and sweet. Among the artisan producers, there’s hot street food, live music and children’s activities too.
The Brewery Garden, Lancaster Leisure park, www.lfdf.co.uk
30th-May 1st
May Day Steamings
See 30 old stationary steam engines, some of which powered the cotton mills and woollen mills of the north of England. Some are the only of their kind to survive in the world and most will be running in steam during the event.
Bolton Steam Museum, 01204 846490
EXHIBITIONS
Until April 9th
Tom Mellor Exhibition
Exhibition including a selection of photographs and perspectives of the buildings Tom Mellor designed, such as his home, Churchwood in Lytham, the Senate Building, Liverpool University, halls of residence in other universities and St Bernadette’s Church in Lancaster. There will be a room with examples of his furniture and fabrics plus a selection of his paintings and murals from 1936 to 1985.
Lytham Heritage Centre, 01253 730787
11th-May 4th
Photographic Exhibition
Garstang Camera Club will be having an exhibition of their work, with free admission and refreshments available.
Garstang Arts Centre, 01995 606648
Until 22nd
Northern Grit
Exhibition by northern artists Penny Hunt and Debbie Yare who both draw inspiration from direct experience of landscape, incorporating elements of the landscape into their work.
Florence Arts Centre, near Egremont, www.florenceartscentre.com
Until 24th
The Power of the Hills: John Ruskin and Mountains
No single feature of the earth excited more feeling in Ruskin than the hills. No single aspect of nature inspired his brush more consistently or more beautifully.
Brantwood, Coniston, 015394 41396
Until April 29th
Contemplating a Legacy - Works in Print by Julia M. Swarbrick
This free exhibition by artist Julia M. Swarbrick showcases work produced during her seven month Residency at Blackburn Museum funded by Art Council England.
Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery, 01254 667130
Until May 1st
Behind the Wall
Exhibition revealing the hidden history of an award-winning Lancaster printing factory, Standfast & Barracks. The featured artworks includes Ghosts in the Machine, a textile exhibit by Michael Brennand-Wood, one of the most innovative international artists in his field and beautifully crafted panels exploring pattern, time, structure and history created by renowned contemporary textile artist Caroline Bartlett.
Lancaster City Museum, www.miradorarts.co.uk
Until May 1st
Fashion on the Ration: 1940s Street Style
Major exhibition exploring how fashion survived and even flourished under the strict rules of rationing and how despite the restrictions, austerity did not put an end to creative design or fashionable trends on the British home front.
IWM North, Manchester, www.iwm.org.uk
OUR FAVOURITE FOUR
1st
Art on the Run
Combining a joint love of the arts, woodlands and exercising outdoors, this is a ridiculous run like no other – a 5K dash through the most beautiful landscape, encountering surprising and fantastical large-scale art installations…expect the unexpected to help you on your way.
LIVIA Forest, Prestwich, www.artontherun.org.uk
1st-May 1st
O.K. the Musical
Visitors to Tate Liverpool will have the unique opportunity to witness the entire production of a musical unfold live in the gallery over the space of four weeks, culminating in three special performances.
Tate Liverpool, 0151 702 7400
11th-15th
Nell Gwynn
1660 Drury Lane. Charles II has cast off London’s drab, puritanical past with a love of all things loud, French and sexy. A young Nell Gwynn is selling oranges for sixpence in London’s burgeoning West End theatre scene. Llittle does she know who is in the audience one fateful night.
The Grand Theatre, Blackpool, 01253 743339
26th-29th
The Banff Mountain Film Festival
Three evenings of exciting adventure films. Viewers can expect incredible cinematography, epic scenery, mind-blowing journeys and some hair-raising moments in the last wild corners of the planet.
Theatre By The Lake, Keswick, www.banff-uk.com
