Contributors: Graham Bostock, Diane Parkes, Patsy Moss, Steve Adams, Sue Hull, Reggie White, Sue Jones, Chris Eldon Lee, Rachel Smith
Publisher and CEO: Martin Monahan Accounts Administrator: Louise Hunter louise@21stcd.com 01743 281717 This
Social enterprise on the lookout for creatives...
2Funky Arts, a social enterprise dedicated to advancing and celebrating arts & music of Black origin, is looking for artists of Black, African and Caribbean heritage to take part in its annual And Still I Rise Midlands tour. Produced for Black History Month, the tour will showcase ‘powerful new work’ by 10 outstanding creatives, with each artist needing to develop an original performance exploring themes of identity, heritage and liberation.
Selected artists will receive £500 to develop and rehearse their work, plus £200 for each performance. Interested parties have until Friday 26 June to apply.
To find out more, visit 2funkyarts.co.uk
Pop and rock gig to raise funds for Acorns Hospice
Stourbridge arts organisation Gig Caritas is teaming up with the In Sound Company community choir to present a Dudley Town Hall concert of pop and rock hits, to raise funds for Acorns Children’s Hospice. Gig Caritas Rocks! takes place at the venue on Saturday 27 June, with further information and tickets available via boroughhalls.co.uk
In a pickle: NEC to host indoor Open tournament
Birmingham’s NEC will host the UK’s largest indoor pickleball tournament later in the summer.
Pickleball is one of the world’s fastestgrowing sports, combining elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis. Running at the NEC from Tuesday 11 to Sunday 16 August, the event provides the opportunity to watch some of the game’s top
players in action. To find out more and purchase your tickets, visit thenec.co.uk
Steve Backshall to tour with Deadly Live! show
Deadly Live! with Steve Backshall will return to Birmingham in the autumn.
Marketed as an action-packed, edgeof-your-seat thrilling experience, the show visits Birmingham Utilita Arena during the half-term holiday, on Monday 26 October. For more information and to book tickets, visit deadlylivetour.com
Symphony Hall date for comedian Simon Brodkin
Controversial comedian Simon Brodkin - who memorably handed Prime Minister Theresa May her P45 at the Conservative Party Conference in 2017 - will kickstart a brandnew tour at Birmingham Symphony Hall on Friday 11 September. To find out more and purchase tickets, visit bmusic.co.uk
TV’s A League Of Their Own heading out on tour
Hit television show A League Of Their Own is heading out on tour in the autumn and will be paying a visit to Birmingham, stopping off at the city’s bp pulse LIVE venue on Monday 14 September. Series veteran Jamie Redknapp will be hosting proceedings, with team captains Jill Scott and Tony Bellew also involved. For more information and to book your tickets, visit livenation.co.uk
Award-winning food festival back this month
Shrewsbury Food Festival returns at the end of the month.
Taking place in the town’s Quarry Park on Saturday 27 & Sunday 28 June, the event will feature top chefs leading demonstrations, 180-plus food, drink and home stalls, bars run by local drink producers, and a wide selection of street food.
The event has been named Festival of the Year at the West Midlands Tourism Awards for three consecutive years.
To find out more and purchase tickets, visit the website: shrewsburyfoodfestival.co.uk
Grammy Award winner at Shrewsbury Folk Festival
Blues & roots artist Fantastic Negrito is to perform at this summer’s Shrewsbury Folk Festival.
The three-time Grammy Award winner will appear at the event on Sunday 30 August, following the withdrawal of Americana star Lucinda Williams, who last month cancelled all her UK and EU shows.
Commenting on the announcement, Festival Director Sandra Surtees said: “This is a rare UK festival performance for Fantastic Negrito and an exciting addition to this year’s programme. He is known for his fearless originality and deeply personal songwriting, as well as for his electrifying live performances, so we can’t wait for our audience to see him live.”
Shrewsbury Folk Festival takes place at the West Mid Showground from Friday 28 to Monday 31 August.
For more information and to book tickets, visit shrewsburyfolkfestival.co.uk
A winter date for The Damned
British punk icons The Damned have announced a celebratory 50th anniversary UK tour and will be paying a visit to Birmingham’s O2 Academy on Saturday 5 December. To find out more and purchase tickets, visit aegp.uk/the-damned
The Manics & Suede at Utilita
Two pioneering bands, Manic Street Preachers and Suede, will visit Birmingham Utilita Arena in the autumn (Saturday 7 November) as part of a coheadline tour. For more information and to book tickets, visit the website utilitaarenabham.co.uk
Himley hauntings
Halloween is coming early at Dudley’s Himley Hall this year, courtesy of a guided daytime tour revealing the spooky legends which have long been associated with the popular visitor attraction. Cold Light Of Day: The Haunting Of Himley Hall - taking place at the venue on Saturday 27 June - is a prebooked-only event, with tickets available to purchase at ticketsource.com
Pretty Woman musical to show at two Midlands venues
The stage musical version of Pretty Woman will head back to the Midlands next year.
The hit production, based on the same-named 1990 film starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, will show at Birmingham theatre The Alexandra from Tuesday 4 to Saturday 15 May
Trainspotting in the Midlands
The stage-musical version of Trainspotting is heading out on its first major UK tour.
Based on the cult 1996 film of the same name, the show will visit Birmingham venue
The Alexandra from Monday 30 November to Saturday 5 December and Stoke’s Regent Theatre, from Tuesday 5 to Saturday 9 January, 2027. Visit atgtickets.com to purchase tickets.
2027. It will then return to the region two months later for a run at the Regent Theatre in Stoke-onTrent (Tuesday 20 - Saturday 24 July).
To find out more and purchase tickets, visit the website of the relevant venue.
Summer Steam Saturdays at SVR...
The Severn Valley Railway is bringing an extra touch of steam-era nostalgia to Bridgnorth this summer, with steam-hauled services operating on the first train of the day from the town every Saturday during June, July and August... The services will see one of the railway’s smaller steam locomotives paired with a set of historic Great Western Railway carriages.
John Partridge to star in The Silence Of The Lambs in Wolverhampton
Former EastEnders actor John Partridge will star as Hannibal Lecter when the stage adaptation of Oscar-winning movie The Silence Of The Lambs visits the Grand Theatre in Wolverhampton next spring... The show stops off at the venue from Monday 26 April to Saturday 1 May 2027. For more information and to book tickets, visit the website at grandtheatre.co.uk
Big names coming to Shrewsbury venue
Pop-rock band The Feeling, ambient electronic music pioneers The Orb (pictured), indie favourites The Wedding Present, and psychedelic rock band Ozric Tentacles are among the autumn visitors to Shrewsbury venue The Buttermarket.
To check out the complete programme of live music and events, visit the website at thebuttermarket.co.uk
The return of Lichfield Cathedral’s Tower Tour
Lichfield Cathedral’s Tower Tour is making a return.
The tour takes visitors to the top of the cathedral’s Central Tower, from where they can enjoy stunning views of the city and the surrounding areas.
For more information and to book tickets, visit lichfield-cathedral.org
Jill Halfpenny to star in Little Voice at the Grand
Familiar television face Jill Halfpenny will star in a brand-new National Theatre production of The Rise And Fall Of Little Voice when it tours to the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre early next year (Tuesday 9Saturday 13 March). Waterloo Road and EastEnders star Jill will be joined in the cast by Francesca Mills (Silent Witness) and the BAFTA Award-winning Paul Chuckle (The Madame Blanc Mysteries).
For more information and to book tickets, visit the venue’s website: grandtheatre.co.uk
A touring version of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Starlight Express will skate into Birmingham Hippodrome next summer as part of a world tour.
The hit musical, which has been seen by more than 30 million people across the globe
Midlands ballet school launches summer retreat
Birmingham’s Elmhurst Ballet School is inviting adult dancers to step into ‘a unique and uplifting experience’ next month, courtesy of its Silver Swans Summer Retreat - ‘a carefully curated programme blending dance, wellbeing and community in a welcoming and supportive environment’. Running from Monday 13 to Thursday 16 July, the experience includes daily ballet technique classes, repertoire sessions, and workshops in jazz and Bollywood dance.
To find out more, check out the website at elmhurstballetschool.org
Weston Park set to host culinary demonstrations
Shropshire’s Weston Park is hosting a brand-new programme of culinary demonstrations.
News from around the region
since debuting over 40 years ago, visits the second city from Wednesday 11 August to Saturday 11 September 2027. For more information and to book tickets, visit birminghamhippodrome.com
CBSO unveils its 2026/27 season programme
The initiative follows the stately home’s appointment of Tom Bacon as its Chef de Partie. Tom has joined the kitchen team following a successful twoyear tenure with the Rick Stein group in Padstow, Cornwall. The first demonstration takes place on Friday 12 June. For more information and to book your place, visit the website at weston-park.com
To check out the full line-up of concerts, visit cbso.co.uk/season-26-27
To find out more about the show, visit the website at oldburyrep.org First Word
Major symphonic journeys - including Beethoven and Mahler cycles - and the CBSO Chorus’ 1,000th performance are among the highlights of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra’s 2026/27 season. The CBSO will also be returning to Coventry Cathedral for Britten’s War Requiem, as well as presenting a wide-ranging programme that embraces film, popular music and cross-genre collaborations.
The Changeling next up for Oldbury Rep Players
Oldbury Rep Players will once again be treading the boards in the middle of next month when they present the world premiere of Paul Steventon-Marks’ The Changeling.
A reimagining of the Dracula myth, the production runs at the Oldbury Rep Theatre from Saturday 11 to Saturday 18 July.
Word
A summer return for the Dudley Comedy Allstars
The Comedy Allstars show returns to Dudley Town Hall next month with another line-up of top comedians.
Taking place on Saturday 25 July, the show will feature sets by Milton Jones, Babatunde Aléshé, Nick Helm and Aurie Styla (pictured). Tickets are available by visiting the website at boroughhalls.co.uk
City to host UK’s biggest competitive gaming event
Birmingham’s NEC will host one of the UK’s biggest competitive gaming events, the YuGi-Oh! National Championships, in the middle of next month.
Yu-Gi-Oh! is a Trading Card Game in which players use cards they collect from booster packs to build decks and face off against opponents in a game of strategy, luck and skill. The event takes place at the NEC from Sunday 12 to Tuesday 14 July.
To find out more and purchase tickets, visit yugioh-card.com
Finalists for Midlands Choir of the Year revealed
The search for the Midlands Choir of the Year 2026 is one step nearer completion with the announcement of the competition’s six finalists.
The competing choirs will battle it out for the coveted title at Lichfield Cathedral, as part of Lichfield Festival, on Sunday 12 July. The finalists are: Cantare (Derby), Friday Voices (Anslow, Burton-on-Trent), Inspire Choir (Lichfield), RWT Singers (Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust Staff Choir, Wolverhampton), Six Town Sound (Stokeon-Trent) and Staffordshire Show Choir (Staffordshire).
As well as a trophy, the winners will receive a cash prize of £1,000 and an invitation to sing at the following year’s Lichfield Festival. An additional £500 prize is awarded by the audience to the choir of their choice.
News from around the region
Charlie and Joe to take top billing in hit stage play
Former EastEnders’ star Charlie Brooks - she played Janine Butcher in the long-running TV soap - will take top billing when the brandnew Birmingham Rep and Melting Pot production of The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night-Time hits the road in the autumn.
National Trust reopens Ironbridge venues
The National Trust has now reopened Ironbridge’s Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron, the Furnace Kitchen and Blists Hill Victorian Town.
Commenting on the news, the Trust issued a statement saying: “Over the coming months, we’ll be reintroducing popular activities and demonstrations, while also introducing new ones shaped by [visitors’] feedback.
“Bookings can be made via the Ironbridge Gorge website, where you can find out more and plan your visit.”
Tracy to take Tudors on tour across the Midlands
Bestselling author, historian & broadcaster Professor Tracy Borman is taking the drama of the Tudor court out on the road this autumn with a major new theatre show. Tudors On Tour will be visiting a number of Midlands venues.
The show will kickstart its tour with a run at The Rep, playing the venue from Saturday 5 to Saturday 19 September... Charlie is joined in the cast by former Strictly Come Dancing winner Joe McFadden. For more information and to book tickets, visit the website at birmingham-rep.co.uk
To find out where and when Tudors On Tour is visiting the Midlands, check out Tracy’s website at tracybormanlive.co.uk
Rhino lodges set to open
West Midlands Safari Park is this month opening its new Rhino Safari Lodges. Situated alongside a herd of white rhinos, the four two-storey lodges sleep up to six guests. To reserve your overnight stay, visit safari-lodges.co.uk/rhino-lodge
BMAG to host exhibition of art by comic Joe Lycett
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery (BMAG) is to host a first major solo exhibition of art by Brummie comedian Joe Lycett. Exploring the theme of ‘things that are no longer with us’, and inspired by objects from the city of Birmingham’s collection, Joe’s Every Thing Must Go will cover subjects including deceased celebrities, discontinued chocolate bars, extinct animals and destroyed buildings, all presented in the popular funnyman’s usual tongue-in-cheek style. Joe’s stated desire with the exhibition, which opens on Wednesday 29 July, is to “overwhelm and delight with a neon graveyard”. First
According to its publicity, the show will ‘bring to life the personalities of the Tudor dynasty in a fast-paced theatrical experience packed with intrigue, power struggles, forbidden love and, of course, more than a few beheadings!’
ALL THE CLASSICS
Nik Kershaw’s hits get the orchestral treatment when 80s Classical comes to Symphony Hall this month...
Step back to the decade of big hits and big hair when 80s Classical comes to Birmingham’s Symphony Hall this month. Featuring original 80s artists performing much-loved anthems live with the backing of a full symphony orchestra, the show sees Nik Kershaw sharing the limelight with Johnny Hates Jazz and Jaki Graham. Nik here explains how performing symphonic versions of his hits has given him a new perspective…
Nik Kershaw, 80s Classical reimagines your music with a full orchestra - how did this symphonic treatment of your work first come about?
I was first approached about this around five or six years ago, when we started doing 80s Classical at Millennium Square in Leeds, and it quickly became a regular event. I already knew Cliff Masterson, who runs and orchestrates the whole thing, and when he told me about the concept, it just felt like a great opportunity - not to reinvent the songs, but to approach them from a completely different angle.
What do orchestral arrangements bring to 80s pop songs that you can’t achieve in a standard live band?
There’s something truly magnificent about performing with an orchestra. I’ve loved classical music since I was a kid - I used to listen to it a lot and go to the Proms with my parents, so to now find myself on stage with a full orchestra is a very special experience. It’s quite humbling, really. You realise you’re just one small part of something much bigger. I imagine some people coming to this concert might never have seen a full orchestra before. They may be fans of mine or the other artists on the bill, and this could be their first experience of hearing that kind of sound live. You never quite know what’s brought people into the auditorium.
And Birmingham Symphony Hall is a pretty special place to experience that for the first time. I’ve played there several times over the years, including when I was touring with Go West, and it’s just a fantastic venue. The acoustics are incredible - it really is a beautiful space to perform in.
Looking back, what do you think defined the sound and spirit of 80s pop music? What stands out to me is just how varied the charts were. You could have someone like Matt Bianco alongside folk, American rock, straight-up pop - pretty much every genre you could think of, all sitting in the top-10 at the same time. It felt incredibly diverse, and I don’t think you see that in quite the same way now.
There was also a deeper connection between audiences and music back then. People really bought records, collected vinyl, and invested themselves in artists. It felt like a more
immersive experience. Interestingly, vinyl is making a comeback now, which is great to see - and definitely a positive thing for artists.
You’ll be sharing the stage with Johnny Hates Jazz and Jaki Graham - what’s the dynamic on tour with other iconic 80s artists?
Well, none of us get on... Only joking! No, it’s great; I get on with everyone. Jaki Graham and the Johnny Hates Jazz guys are all just lovely. What’s interesting is that, over the years - especially since the retro festivals really took off in the mid-2000s - I’ve actually become friends with people I didn’t even meet back in the day, which is quite extraordinary.
Does working with an orchestra change your approach to stage performance?
There are a couple of arrangements that I’ve worked on with Cliff Masterson where the orchestration is a bit more subtle or more interpretive, and in those cases, I do have to be more conscious of what’s happening around me.
You end up listening and responding to the orchestra in a different way - it becomes more of a conversation. You feed off what the orchestra is doing as well as your own part, and that’s actually a really enjoyable way to perform.
Do you notice a difference between how your original fans and younger listeners connect with your music?
Yes, I think they do connect with it in a different way. Younger audiences are often just discovering the songs as songs - they’re listening to them as pieces of music in their own right... My older fans tend to come with a lot of memory attached. For them, it’s about where they were when they first heard those songs, who they were with and what was going on in their lives at the time. It becomes very nostalgic - it takes them right back.
The decade of the 80s is often remembered for big hair and big anthems - what’s one cliché from back then that you’d be happy to reclaim?
I don’t know - I’ve got a sense of humour about all of it really. There was definitely a period where I was quite embarrassed by a lot of the 80s stuff - videos, fashion, all of
those so-called faux pas. But if I had to pick one thing, I’d say shoulder pads. I think they should make a comeback - if they haven’t already and I’ve just missed it!
They’re actually brilliant. They do a lot for you, especially if you’re not particularly tall like me. They give you a bit of presence - you end up with broader shoulders and a smallerlooking head, which is always a bonus!
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about your own songs through orchestral arrangements?
Mostly positive things, really. You get so used to your older songs that you almost stop hearing them - you just think of them as ‘my old tunes’ and move on. But when you hear them with an orchestra, you suddenly think, actually… that’s a pretty good song. You start noticing all these harmonics and layers of harmony that were always there, but they’re brought out in a completely different way by the orchestration. And you realise, those are still my chords, that’s still my melody - it just gets revealed in a new light.
With a band, when we play live, it’s more of a joyful racket, really! It’s about energy and groove and power. But with the orchestra, it shifts the focus - it brings out the melody and the harmony much more clearly, I think.
Do you have any memories or standout moments from past performances in Birmingham?
I’ve got really fond memories of playing in Birmingham over the years. I played the Birmingham Odeon back in the day, and those were fantastic gigs - really great crowds.
More recently I’ve played Birmingham Town Hall, doing some solo acoustic shows, which is a brilliant venue as well. I just remember Birmingham audiences always being really warm and enthusiastic.
And, of course, Birmingham Symphony Hall is just outstanding. The last time I was there was probably about 10 years ago with Go West, so it’s been a while. I’m really looking forward to coming back.
80s Classical shows at Symphony Hall, Birmingham, on Thursday 11 June
Festivals taking place across the region this summer...
House On The Hill
Hilltop Farm, Hunningham, Fri 5 & Sat 6 June
Featuring a line-up of top DJ talent fresh from the White Isle itself, epic non-stop dance party House On The Hill will be taking over Hilltop Farm in Warwickshire next month... Visitors have the chance to stay at Hilltop Hideaways - a glampsite boasting bell tents, cabins and shepherds’ huts.
2026 line-up includes: Ted Nilsson, Charlie Price (pictured), Kirsty Leahy, Darren James, Jay Reefer, Chae-Lou, Matt Robins, Mark Gozdecki, Andy Rowley, Spencer Taffs
Penkridge Open Air
Penkridge Sports & Recreation Centre, Pinfold Lane, Fri 28 - Sun 30 August
Back for a fifth year, this time running over the August bank holiday, Penkridge Open Air festival presents live performances by a host of artists, bands and local talent across multiple stages.
Other festival attractions include food vendors, a BMX stunt show, circus acts, craft stalls, a funfair and a bar.
2026 line-up includes: ABC (pictured), The Drifters, 2 Unlimited, Basshunter, Heaven 17, The Trammps, DJ Sammy, The Fizz, Bay City Rollers, Let Loose, Ultrabeat
Shrewsbury Folk Festival
DMOS People West Mid Showground, Fri 28 - Mon 31 August
A highlight of any folk fan’s calendar, this four-day fest brings together centuries of musical tradition in one picturesque setting. Steeped in history, the border town of Shrewsbury provides an ideal backdrop for
Download Festival
Donington Park, Castle Donington, Wed 10 - Sun 14 June
With top billing consistently taken by some of the biggest names in rock and metal, it’s not hard to see why Download is one of the most popular and well-attended festivals in the UK. Conceived as a follow-up to the Monsters Of Rock Festival, the event partly owes its name to the pioneering way in which it uses technology to connect with audiences and build a community.
2026 line-up includes: Limp Bizkit, Linkin Park (pictured), Guns 'N Roses, Mastodon, Pendulum, Bad Omens, Cypress Hill, Architects, Trivium, Electric Callboy
the festival’s mash-up of modern, medieval, and everything in between, where grassroots cultures collide in dynamic fusion styles.
2026 line-up includes: Fantastic Negrito, Talisk x Gardiner Brothers: Unleashed, Andy Fairweather Low & The Low Riders, Ferocious Dog ft The Celtic Folk Orchestra, Cable Street Collective (pictured), Katherine Priddy
Cheltenham Music Festival
Various locations in and around Cheltenham, Fri 3 - Sat 11 July
Cheltenham Music Festival’s 80th anniversary, in 2025, provided a landmark season of celebration. This year’s edition looks to the future - championing world-class performers and bold new voices in some of the town’s most beautiful spaces.
2026 line-up includes: Aurora Orchestra and Benjamin Grosvenor, Idrîsî Ensemble, Hana Chang, The Unthanks (pictured), Angela Hewitt, Sheku and Isata Kanneh-Mason, Pavel Kolesnikov and the Jess Gillam Trio, The Last Night... with Sinfonia of London and John Wilson
Live music from across the region...
Forest Live
Cannock Chase Forest, Wed 24 - Sun 28 June
This month’s festival of live music in the nation’s forests sees Cannock Chase hosting five nights of top-quality entertainment... Billy Ocean is joined by special guest Marti Pellow on Wednesday the 24th, with Fatboy Slim setting out his woodland stall the following evening.
The weekend then begins with Becky Hill (pictured) headlining a Friday concert. UB40 featuring Ali Campbell take to the stage on the Saturday, while pop-rock favourites McFly round off proceedings on Sunday the 28th.
Inspiral Carpets
The Buttermarket, Shrewsbury, Sat 27 June; The Sugarmill, Stoke-on-Trent, Sun 28 June
A seriously important element of the infamous ‘Madchester’ movement of the early 1990s - they were one-third of the scene’s ‘holy triumvirate’, alongside Stone Roses and Happy Mondays - 1960s-inspired garage punk-pop favourites Inspiral Carpets have a back catalogue awash with hit singles - This Is How It Feels, Dragging Me Down, Two Worlds, Joe, Collide, She Comes In The Fall and Saturn 5, to name but a few. Making a comeback in 2023, after a seven-year hiatus following the tragic death of drummer Craig Gill, the band are supported for this month’s Midlands gigs by Trampolene. Their performance at The Buttermarket will be followed by the England-Panama World Cup match, televised live on the venue’s giant screen.
Wolverhampton-born Beverley Knight MBE returns to her geographical roots this month with latest touring show Born To Perform. Beverley’s been labelled the UK Queen of Soul - and with her influences including the likes of Sam Cooke and Aretha Franklin, it’s easy to see why.
“I’m excited to get back on the road, but with a different kind of show [to the sort] folks are used to with me,” says Beverley,
Circa Waves
KK’s Steel Mill, Wolverhampton, Thurs 25 June
Distinctively infectious post-punk anthems are the name of the game for Liverpudlian four-piece Circa Waves, who first made their mark more than a decade ago with singles including Get Away and Stuck In My Teeth. Their nervy, melodic indie rock has seen them favourably likened to, among others, The Strokes, Arctic Monkeys and The Vaccines. Fourteen-track debut record Young Chasers, released in 2015, has since been followed by six other studio albums, including last year’s Death & Love, parts one and two.
The Proclaimers
Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Trent, Thurs 4 June
There’s no need to walk 500 miles to see The Proclaimers - Charlie and Craig Reid will be making an early-month stop-off in the Potteries as part of an extensive UK tour. It’s certainly a busy time for the twin brothers from Auchtermuchty in Fife, having only recently finished recording their 13th album. Expect all the hits when they visit the Victoria Hall, including, of course, I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles), Letter From America and Sunshine On Leith.
who three years ago bagged the ‘best supporting actress’ Olivier Award for her performance in the hit musical Sylvia.
“Born To Perform is me taking you on a journey through my life - on both music and theatre stages - using my memories, and of course, my songs. I’m stripping back my sound so that the audience can lean in a little closer and really hear my soul.”
Eddi Reader and John Douglas
The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock, South Shropshire, Fri 12 & Sat 13 June
With an MBE sitting behind her name and numerous Brit Awards decorating the mantelpiece, Scottish singer-songwriter Eddi Reader is well remembered for her association with Fairground Attraction, with whom she scored a UK number one, Perfect, in 1988... Eddi is visiting Shropshire midmonth in the company of her husband, John Douglas - songwriter & guitarist with Scottish indie rock band Trashcan Sinatras. The couple will be interweaving songs from their debut album with some sure-to-befascinating stories.
A good night (or two, if you really, really love them!) should be had by all.
Beverley Knight The Civic at The Halls Wolverhampton, Tues 30 June
TAKE NOTES
The City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra knows exactly who it’s playing for...
By Jessica Clixby
The City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) has announced details of its 2026/27 season. Beginning in the autumn, the programme includes symphonic cycles, new compositions, innovative musical fusions, and the chance to relive a historic performance of Benjamin Britten’s War Requiem. The CBSO has also reaffirmed its commitment to presenting concerts for the people of Birmingham and the Midlands, as the orchestra’s chief executive, Emma Stenning, explains...
As well as celebrating new music and favourite composers, the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra’s (CBSO) 2026/27 programme aims to bring the orchestra to both the people of Birmingham and the global stage.
The programme includes, on Wednesday 11 November, a commemoration of Benjamin Britten, half a century after the composer’s death. And Emma Stenning, the CBSO’s chief executive, is suitably excited about the concert: “There was really only ever one piece that could mark this orchestra’s connection to one of our country’s most celebrated composers in the year that marks 50 years since his death: his War Requiem. [The work was] written for the consecration of the newly rebuilt Coventry Cathedral and premiered there by the CBSO in 1962, when the memories of war were still frighteningly real.
“The Requiem is music that remains in the DNA of the orchestra, and on November the 11th - Remembrance Day - the CBSO will perform it once again at Coventry Cathedral.
“It’s not a comfortable piece, but a timeless, intensely moving meditation on man's inhumanity to man. As resonant today as the day it was written, the immense work is both a reflection on war and a cry for peace.
Performing it again, in the place where it was first heard, is in no way an act of nostalgia; it is music that still needs to be heard, as the world grows ever more troubled by conflict.
“The scale is extraordinary, calling on the full forces of the CBSO’s orchestra and chorus, along with a number of guest soloists. After Coventry, we visit Lucerne, Brussels and Luxembourg, with over 200 artists ‘on the road’. It’s Birmingham’s orchestra, creating an epic event here in the Midlands, before taking it to some of Europe’s finest concert halls.”
The tour has far-reaching implications, says Emma, both for the orchestra and the city it represents.
“It’s a reminder of something that we sometimes forget to say clearly enough: that big artistic statements do not only happen in London. This concert, at Coventry Cathedral on the 11th of November, is for and about the Midlands, its history and its people. A
cultural moment with worldwide resonance, rooted entirely in place.
“That sense of rootedness runs through everything we are doing in our new 2026/27 season.”
The programme features many tantalising offerings, including beloved classics, ambitious projects, and a look to the future.
“We are in our third year with Kazuki Yamada as music director, and the relationship between him and the orchestra has become something very special indeed. Concert after concert, the connection deepens. To mark that, we are committing to two symphony cycles running in parallel - a full Beethoven cycle through 2027, and the next chapter of our ongoing Mahler series, with his symphonies opening and closing the season. It’s ambitious, and it also feels exactly right for us, right now. You discover a narrative by sitting with the complete work of a single composer - an evolution, a maturation - and Kazuki and this orchestra are ready for that kind of commitment.
“We are also celebrating contemporary music with the same energy. This season, we mark the 90th birthday of Steve Reich. And we have appointed a composer-in-residence, Anna Clyne, whose new work we will premiere. The CBSO performs the music being written today as naturally as it does the scores of Britten, Beethoven and Bach - and our players, who are extraordinary, thrive in the space to perform the full breadth of such repertoire.”
Part of the CBSO’s mission - in performing music to the people of Birmingham - is to reach audiences who otherwise might not have access to orchestral performances. “Access is not an afterthought for us,” says Emma. “It is, in many ways, the point. CBSO In The City returns for its third year across the August Bank Holiday weekend - free music in parks, gardens, pubs, cafes and some more surprising locations across Birmingham, including reaching into communities with whom we have not yet connected. Our one-pound ticket offer continues: pick up a flyer at any CBSO In The City event and you can get into anything in the new season for a pound. We mean it when we say this music is for everyone.
“And so does our Community Board, which brings together faith leaders and community leaders from across the city. [The board] helps us understand Birmingham's extraordinary cultural complexity and hold us accountable to it. The result is programming that celebrates the city as it actually is. Our enduring partnership with the Orchestral Qawwali Project, led by Associate Artist Rushil Ranjan, draws on Sufi poetry and fills Symphony Hall with some of the most diverse audiences I have seen anywhere. We celebrate Bollywood music as a core part of who we are as a city. We use our rehearsal home on Berkley Street as a small performance venue for evenings curated by the Community Board - sitar players, tabla players, Sikh sacred music, Bangladeshi New Year.
“And for children who have never been near a live orchestra, there are Notelets concerts, with chamber music, storytelling and instruments to try, created and led by our own players. One of my favourite moments from last season was a chamber ensemble performing S Club 7 to a roomful of dancing school kids. This orchestra commits as much to this work as it does to Mahler, Beethoven and Britten, and that’s why I love it so much.”
Emma is confident that the new programme includes plenty of events for the orchestra’s local audiences to discover: “When I look at this season, I see an orchestra that knows who and what it’s for. It’s not for a particular kind of audience, or a particular kind of music. It’s for Birmingham and the Midlands, and it’s in demand across the world. It’s for the die-hard orchestral fans, but also for anyone who’s never been and thinks it’s not for them. It’s for the people who have been coming for decades, and for the six-year-old who picks up a triangle at the end of a Notelets concert and cannot put it down.
“In short, it’s for you - and we hope to see you at a concert soon!”
Visit cbso.co.uk for more information about the orchestra’s 2026-27 season
Classical music from across the region...
CBSO: Puccini’s Tosca Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Sat 27 June
Giacomo Puccini’s grand Italian melodrama is set in 1800 and finds the city of Rome threatened by Napoleon’s French army. The story focuses on painter Cavaradossi and his lover, the celebrated singer Floria Tosca, as their lives are endangered by Cavaradossi’s decision to help Cesare Angelotti, an escaped political prisoner.
With corrupt chief of police Baron Scarpia vying for Angelotti’s blood, there follows an intriguing game of cat-and-mouse...
The CBSO’s music director, Kazuki Yamada, here leads the orchestra and an impressive roster of soloists, including Anna Patalong, Sir Bryn Terfel (pictured) and Gwyn Hughes Jones.
Ex Cathedra: The Grand Tour - Burney 300
St Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury, Fri 5 June
“We are delighted to return to Shrewsbury to celebrate the 300th birthday of Dr Charles Burney,” says Ex Cathedra’s founder & conductor Jeffrey Skidmore (pictured), in talking about this earlymonth Shropshire Music Trust concert. “Burney was born in Shrewsbury in 1726 and attended Shrewsbury School. His brother James was organist at St Mary’s in the town, where the young Charles received much of his early musical training. In the 1770s, he undertook two lengthy tours of
France, Germany and Italy. He met Mozart twice and was a close friend of Joseph Haydn. His writings provide some of the clearest portraits of life in 18th-century England and Europe, and he remained at the heart of cultural life until his death in 1814. “Excerpts from his writings and the music he encountered will transport you into his world. The programme will include the Allegri Miserere, which he published in London in 1771, adding to the legend of this iconic piece.”
Jarualda Quartet
The Gateway, Shrewsbury, Thurs 4 June
“Our name is a fusion of all our names,” explains the Jarualda Quartet, “because our interdependence is at the core of our ethos. We are all equally important, and a good quartet is always about more than the sum of its parts.”
Comprising violinists Alex Postlethwaite and David Joyce, viola player Jane Park and cellist Ruth Henley, Jarualda boasts a wealth of experience, with all four of its members being much in demand as soloists, chamber musicians and section principals.
The quartet’s Shrewsbury concert features works by Haydn, Laks and Debussy.
CBSO: An Evening With Davóne Tines
Birmingham Town Hall, Wed 10 June Renowned for blending opera, spirituals, and contemporary music - and hailed by the New Yorker as a man who is ‘changing what it means to be a classical singer’the trailblazing Davóne Tines has won plenty of awards over the last few years, including Musical America’s ‘vocalist of the year’ gong and a prestigious Chanel Next Prize, presented to artists who are redefining their discipline.
Davóne’s Town Hall appearance sees him performing in Mass Reorchestrated - a work which weaves music by Bach ‘into a multi-voiced exploration of musical America as it is and as it might be’.
The programme also includes Joseph Haydn’s Symphony No44 (Mourning) and Carlos Simon’s Amen.
Nigel Kennedy
Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Trent, Thurs 11 June; Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, Mon 29 June
No doubt buoyed up by the Unai Emeryinspired change in fortunes of his beloved Aston Villa, Nigel Kennedy returns to the region to perform a concert as part of his first UK tour in more than 10 years.
The world’s biggest-selling violinist, Nigel is joined for the mid-month gig by longtime collaborators Alec Dankworth (son of the late John Dankworth and Cleo Laine), on double bass, and cellist Peter Adams.
Image credit: Mitch Jenkins
SUMMER OF CONTENT
Matthew Duckett talks about playing Richard III in this year’s Stafford Shakespeare production...
By Steve Adams
Netflix star Matthew Duckett will return to the stage and a role he knows well - despite never having performed it all the way through - when he takes the lead in the Stafford Shakespeare production of Richard III this month. It’s a chance to realise a long-held ambition as well as put his own stamp on the character, he tells What’s On...
This year’s Stafford Shakespeare production will be Richard III, the dramatic - and occasionally violent - power struggle set during the ‘winter of our discontent’ and involving one of England’s most notorious kings.
The play is effectively the finale of the Bard’s War of the Roses historical tetralogy, following Henry VI Parts One to Three. Actor Matthew Duckett, who’s playing Richard, is quick to acknowledge how a recap of earlier events - similar to the start of a new episode of a TV show - might come in handy for cast and audience alike: “We’re not staging the Henrys, so there’s a little bit of mixed storytelling that has to happen to bring the audience up to speed with who everyone is and why everyone’s so angry with each other.
“We could [go the recap route] or just throw everyone in at the deep end for five minutes and then go back and fill in the gaps. It’s been fun finding out what we want to do with it, and how we want to tell the story.”
Richard III is a play which the friendly actor knows especially well, so when he says he’s excited to be playing the lead role (“one I’ve been wanting to tackle fully for a very long time”), it’s not just the typical spiel of a performer bigging up his latest project.
Matthew might be best known for starring in the 2022 Netflix film version of Lady Chatterley’s Lover, but theatre is very much his first love, and he worked on scenes from Richard III while studying drama at Aberystwyth University.
He also understudied the role at the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) in Stratford in 2022.
“Theatre has always been what it’s all about for me - that sort of immediate storytelling, having the audience there, and conveying emotion or intention in the moment. I love the immediacy of theatre and the connection that you feel.”
In the case of Richard III, Matthew not only has a connection to the role but also to Richard Cheshire, who will direct the Stafford Shakespeare production at the Gatehouse Theatre.
“My first go at getting Richard III on his feet was under Richard’s direction, so it’s a bit
full circle really. I was also fortunate to understudy Arthur Hughes, who became the first disabled actor to play Richard in an RSC production a few years ago. As understudy, you’re always waiting for your chance [but] as luck would have it, Arthur was the healthiest he’d ever been during the run, so I never got to step up.”
That particular version was helmed by former RSC Artistic Director Gregory Doran, working on his first production after the death of partner Anthony Sher, the actor whose award-winning portrayal of Richard is widely regarded as the greatest of all. Sher even wrote a book, Year Of The King: An Actor’s Diary And Sketchbook, to give an insight into the creation of his performance. The book has gone on to become a bible for many actors.
“Anthony’s Richard was a presence in our rehearsal room, not just for his relationship with Greg but for it being such a zeitgeist iconic role. The Year Of The King is the first book any actor turns to when they’re taking on Richard, and I think that’s been the case ever since he wrote it - it’s certainly wellleafed on my bookcase.”
But as much as he’ll take inspiration from the book, as well as the experience of working with Arthur Hughes, Matthew - who has a mild form of cerebral palsy - is especially excited to bring his own ideas to the iconic role of the ‘deformed’ king.
“To watch and understand Arthur’s process was very enlightening, but to be able to look at it afresh from my own perspective, and put my own stamp on the part, is possibly what I’m looking forward to most. And stamp I shall!”
Whether that will be in the literal sense remains to be seen, but it’s perfectly feasible, as Richard III is one of Shakespeare’s most interesting, dynamic and physical characters
- gentle, charismatic and charming but with quite a nasty edge too…
“He’s incredibly charismatic but very Machiavellian, very sort of manipulative in his plotting and scheming. He wins people round with personality and wit, but equally there’s a very dark side to him.
“He’s such a great character to play. He’s very theatrical, very performative - until he isn’t.
But by then you can be so swept up [by him] that you don’t quite fully understand how you got here.”
That’s a familiar pattern with a certain type of dictator, where power develops almost incrementally until one day there’s a monster in charge doing things that would have been unbelievable months, let alone years ago.
The parallels with Donald Trump’s America are inevitable - Shakespeare’s work finding contemporary resonance yet again. The human condition is evidently a permanent, or at least cyclical one.
“Four hundred years on and we’re still going through the same trials and tribulations.”
The Stafford Shakespeare version of the play is set three rather than four centuries after the original, and is inspired by the 1920s gangland world of TV’s Peaky Blinders, with much of the action set around a post-worldwar pub.
“There’s this world where the men are returning from great conflict, [but] how do you translate that idea for a modern audience?
“We thought post-World War One would be a good foothold for conveying the extent of brutality and man-on-man violence that goes on in the latter parts of the Henrys and through Richard. And the narrative of wanting to climb through an almost Mafiaesque family is quite a neat mirror to hold up to the royal ascendancy that Richard tries to fight his way up.”
As for ‘man-on-man violence’ - can audiences expect much in the way of Peaky Blindersstyle action?
“I can’t say too much, and I don’t want to say ‘violent’, but I think the audience might worry for us in a couple of places! It’s certainly not a PG piece, but not so grotesque as to make anyone leave.
“We have high hopes for some of the fight scenes and - no spoilers - some of the deaths!”
Richard III shows at Stafford Gatehouse from Tuesday 23 June to Saturday 4 July
Comedy previews from across the region...
Al Murray
Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Sun 7 June; Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Thurs 1 October
Danny Bhoy
Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Sat 20 June
“I love being a pub landlord,” explains Al Murray. “It’s a truly great calling. You’re there to soothe troubled souls, pour balm on troubled waters, make people’s important moments in their lives extra special, and provide a range of snacks. What’s not to like?” Al is on tour this year with brand-new show All You Need Is Guv.
Alfie Moore
Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, Fri 12 June; Brewhouse Arts Centre, Burton upon Trent, Fri 3 July; Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Spa, Sat 26 September
Staunch Sheffield
socialist Alfie Moore is a master raconteur and a very funny man. He also used to be a police officer...
Indeed, back in the days when he was both a comedian and a cop, his website advised that if you wanted to see Alfie in the flesh, you had two options: either catch him at one of his comedy gigs, or drive to Scunthorpe and park on a double yellow line!
With his gag-bag including “I’m in a samesex marriage... the sex is always the same,” he stops off in Shrewsbury this month with latest show Acopalypse Now.
Jonny Cole
Brierley Hill Civic, Sun 7 & Sat 13 June; Lichfield Garrick, Fri 26 June; Dudley Town Hall, Thurs 9 & Fri 10 July; The Civic at The Halls Wolverhampton, Sat 11 July; The Anstice, Telford, Thurs 17 & Fri 18 September; Lichfield Garrick, Fri 9 & Sat 10 October; Utilita Arena Birmingham, Tues 3 November
“It’s difficult to put my brand of comedy into an industry-standard soundbite,” says local comedian Jonny Cole. “There are a lot of people who love Black Country humour and who’d love to go into a rough & ready Black Country pub just to listen to the banter - and that’s exactly what I do. I’ve absorbed Black Country humour the whole of my life. I take it out of that pub - where people wouldn’t dare go, in case they got their teeth knocked out - and I put it into a safe, controlled environment where they can enjoy it.”
There can surely be no greater pressure for a Scottish comedian than to be considered one of the country’s brightest prospects since Billy Connolly...
Such is the cross which Danny Bhoy had to bear in the early years of his career.
Blending ironic wit, observational humour and an appealingly laid-back style, Danny is visiting the Midlands this month with Dear World, the show he toured to various festivals last year to great acclaim.
“It’s the sequel to my 2014 show, Dear Epson - my favourite ever show,” explains the 51year-old funnyman. “It’s a hybrid of standup and theatre, but really that just means I get to sit down for bits of it.”
Bring The Laughter
Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Sat 13 June
Tez Ilyas’ live standup has been likened to candyfloss with a razorblade hidden inside, while his television work has brought him to the attention of a whole new audience.
The fact that he’s been able to hit the right notes with so many people doesn’t come as any surprise to Tez... “It doesn’t matter what walk of life we’re from, I think we’re all united by the British sense of humour,” says the Blackburn-born comedian. “Whatever creed, colour, sexual orientation or gender type we are, we have a connection based around a mutual appreciation of that sort of comedy.”
Gaurav Kapoor
Glee Club, Birmingham, Sat 20 June
One-time corporate retailer Gaurav Kapoor began chiselling out a space for himself in the high-pressure world of comedy more than a decade ago.
Now well established on the circuit, the Delhi-based performer has no regrets about leaving behind his previous, relatively secure career in favour of chasing laughs. “You can make good money in comedy,” says Gaurav, “but the key is to diversify and keep reinventing yourself.”
Gaurav visits Birmingham this month with a show he’ll be performing in Hindi.
ISMO: Perseverance Tour
Birmingham Town Hall, Wed 17 June
Tez (pictured) is joined for this Bring The Laughter gig by fellow comics Stephen Bailey, Nabil Abdulrashid, Josh Pugh and Lindsey Santoro.
Howling With Laughter!
The Wulfrun at The Halls Wolverhampton, Sun 7 June
This special Wolverhampton Pride edition of Howling With Laughter! is being promoted as ‘a riotous night of comedy, celebrating the very best in LGBTQ+ talent’.
The show sees headline act Rosie Jones (pictured) being joined by fellow talented peddlers of mirth Felicity Ward, Josh Jones, Fab Goualin and Tal Davies.
Finnish comedians who cause a stir on the UK comedy circuit are hardly ten-a-penny, so ISMO’s midmonth
Birmingham gig offers a perfect opportunity to bag yourself a novel experience. Combining clever wordplay and sharp observational humour with a refreshingly unique perspective on the trials and tribulations of everyday life, the 47-year-old funnyman - full name Ismo Mikael Leikolashot to stardom in the United States more than a decade ago, emerging victorious from comedy club Laugh Factory’s inaugural ‘funniest person in the world’ competition. ISMO is touring the UK this month having recently recovered from a broken back.
Theatre previews from around the region
Miss Saigon
Birmingham Hippodrome, Tues 23 - Sat 27 June
The musical partnership of Alan Boublil and Claude-Michel Schonberg has produced some impressive results down the years, most memorably the smash-hit musical Les Miserables.
Another of their shows, less lauded than Les Mis but still widely admired, is this epic tale, which premiered in the West End some 37
Frankie Goes To Bollywood
The Rep, Birmingham, Wed 10 - Sat 13 June
Frankie never wanted to be a star; she just wanted a family. But after a chance encounter with an up-and-coming director, she finds herself transported to Bollywood, ‘where dreams are mass-produced, identities are reshaped, and women are expected to smile and play by the script that’s written for them’...
Boasting ‘show-stopping choreography, lavish costumes, and a cast of unforgettable characters’, Frankie Goes To Bollywood has been inspired by real stories of British women who’ve been caught in the spotlight of the biggest film industry in the world.... The show is a Rifco Theatre Company production.
years ago... Set against the backdrop of the evacuation of Saigon in 1975, the show tells the story of an American GI and his love for a young Vietnamese woman.
Best-known numbers include The Heat Is On In Saigon, The Movie In My Mind, Last Night Of The World and The American Dream.
Mean Girls
Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Tues 23 - Sat 27 June; The Alexandra, Birmingham, Mon 14 December - Sat 2 January
Mean Girls proved to be a defining movie for a whole generation when it was released more than 20 years ago, so it’s no surprise that the story has since had theatrical life breathed into it.
The plotline follows the adventures of student Cady Heron as she engages with an elite group of popular high-school girls called The Plastics, whose queen bee, Regina George, is ably assisted in her conniving ways by her minions, Gretchen and Karen...
Steps star Faye Tozer takes top billing when the show visits Wolverhampton this month, playing three characters: Ms Heron, Ms Norbury and Mrs George.
Theatre previews from around the region
Annie
The Alexandra, Birmingham, Tues 2 - Sat 6 June; Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, Tues 13 - Sun 18 October; Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Tues 16 - Sun 21 February 2027
Cabaret star La Voix takes on the coveted role of the tyrannical Miss Hannigan when Annie visits Birmingham this month.
Telling the heart-warming rags-to-riches story of a little girl who finds herself transported from a New York orphanage to the luxurious world of a millionaire, the ofttouring Broadway musical features plenty of memorable songs, including It’s A Hard Knock Life, I Don’t Need Anything But You, Easy Street, and of course the legendary Tomorrow.
The show’s Stoke and Wolverhampton dates will see familiar television face and musical theatre favourite Claire Sweeney taking over from La Voix in the role of Miss Hannigan.
Cured
Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, Thurs 11 - Sat 13 June
Wheelchair-using scally Connor Fisher has his eye on a sharp-tongued woman named Rose. After meeting her in the queue for a
benefits reassessment, he then decides to pursue her on a pilgrimage to Lourdes. Driven by determination to get his leg over, it’s fair to say the prayer, contemplation and quiet self-reflection usually associated with pilgrimage are a million miles from Connor’s thoughts. And it isn’t long before his antics rub off on his fellow pilgrims as well... This brand-new play by comedian Laurence Clark has been produced by Liverpool’s Royal Court in partnership with Birds Of Paradise.
Abigail’s Party
Malvern Theatres, Tues 16 - Sat 20 June
Making its television debut as a BBC Play For Today on 1 November 1977, Mike Leigh’s Abigail’s Party became an instant hit.
A fascinating study of the pretensions of 1970s suburbia, the play focuses on the interplay between five ill-matched people during an evening characterised by alcohol, cigarettes, Demis Roussos records and cheesy nibbles. Tamzin Outhwaite stars.
The many sides of Oscar Wilde are laid bare in the late Micheál Mac Liammóir’s critically acclaimed offering, originally performed way back in 1960.
Alastair Whatley is the star of a one-man production which is directed by Michael Fentiman, whose theatrical version of The
Waitress
Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Mon 1 - Sat 6 June; Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, Mon 6Sat 11 July
This smash-hit Broadway and West End musical is based on the 2007 movie of the same name and visits the Midlands with West End favourite Carrie Hope Fletcher heading the cast.
Expert pie maker Jenna is trapped in a loveless marriage to a controlling and abusive man. She dreams of a better future. When a baking contest - and the town’s new doctor - provide her with the hope of something better, she has to decide whether she can find the courage to rebuild her life... Billed as a musical celebration of friendship, motherhood, and the magic of a well-made pie, Waitress co-stars Les Dennis as Old Joe, with Evelyn Hoskins and Sandra Marvin also featuring.
Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe proved to be a major Christmas hit at the Birmingham Rep back in 2023.
The show is produced by the Olivier Awardnominated Original Theatre, the company behind the stage adaptation of author Sebastian Faulks’ Birdsong, another show which has toured to the region in recent times.
Done To Death, By Jove!
Lichfield Garrick, Fri 12 June
Fun-loving duo Gavin Robertson and Nicholas Collett here blend humour, variety, theatre and dance in a show that pays spoof homage to ‘the great British detective’. The production is based around the idea that its cast of six has become a cast of two due to an M6 breakdown of the van carrying the props, the set and four of the performers. The intrepid remaining cast members, Messers Robertson and Collett, are therefore left to present the show on their own - an endeavour which, not surprisingly, leads to all manner of mix-ups and mayhem.
Theatre previews from around the region
Romeo And Juliet
Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, Mon 8 - Wed 10 June; Bowring Park, Telford, Sun 21 June; Compton Verney, Warwickshire, Sat 11 July; Avoncroft Museum, Bromsgrove, Sun 12 July
Zany funsters Oddsocks make a welcome return to the region, this time with their sure-to-beentertaining take on Shakespeare’s famous story of star-crossed lovers.
“Our inclusive approach means that varied communities across the UK are able to engage with theatre,” say the company’s founders and husband & wife team, Andy Barrow and Elli Mackenzie. “We aim to tell good stories in a fun, informative way, gently challenging people’s perceptions and the way in which they react to theatre.”
Around The World In 80 Days
New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme, until Sat 20 June
It’s easy to forget that travelling across the globe used to be a very difficult and longwinded undertaking. Jules Verne’s classic adventure story, Around The World In 80 Days - here helmed by New Vic Artistic Director Theresa Heskins - offers a fun-filled reminder of a time when exotic climes really were ‘a world away’.
Making a welcome return to the Newcastle-
under-Lyme theatre’s stage, this much-loved and family-friendly production recounts the story of English gentleman Phileas Fogg’s attempt to circumnavigate the globe in the aforementioned 80 days, and on a wager of £20,000. He is aided and abetted in his endeavour by his trusty valet, Passepartout... Eight actors take on 109 characters, with six trains, five boats, two dances, one storm, a circus act and an elephant also featuring.
A darkly satirical comedy about a cloth puppet’s attempts to navigate society and its support systems in order to live an ordinary life, Meet Fred is returning to the Midlands having toured to more than 20 countries during the last decade.
Presented by inclusive theatre company Hijinx and featuring black, farcical and even X-rated humour, the production takes a poignant look at disability rights, the absurdity of bureaucratic red tape, and ultimately what it means to be human...
The show features a cast of performers with and without learning disabilities and/or autism, ‘whose lived experiences bring depth and authenticity to Fred’s struggle’.
Patel’s Millions 2
The Alexandra, Birmingham, Sun 14 June
Described as a rags-to-riches adventure, Patel’s Millions blended ‘foot-tapping
The Spy Who Came In From The Cold
The Alexandra, Birmingham, Tues 30 June - Sat 4 July
The recently screened second-series television adaptation of The Night Manager once again brought to the fore the name of the original novel’s author: John le Carré. Thirty years before he wrote The Night Manager, le Carré penned The Spy Who Came In From The Cold. His third book, it became an international bestseller and established his former MI5 and MI6 employee as a major name in the spy-novel genre.
Not only written but also set during the Cold War era, its story focuses on the character of Alec Leamas, a British intelligence officer who is persuaded to undertake one final, dangerous, deceptive and deeply personal mission...
This acclaimed stage production is out on tour following a sold-out run at Chichester Festival Theatre. Ralf Little takes the title role.
Bollywood songs with dazzling dances and laugh-out-loud comedy’ to tell the story of a struggling shopkeeper with big dreams... Now, taking its inspiration from that old adage ‘if it’s not broken, don’t fix it’, comes this sequel offering, one that finds Mr Patel in deep trouble, having lost all of his money overnight. Back in his corner shop, he’s trying to keep up appearances, with his family having no idea that they’re broke. And to make matters even trickier, his daughter’s wedding looms on the horizon, and Mrs Patel is in no mood to keep an eye on the budget...
Allegra
Malvern Theatres, Mon 1 - Sat 6 June
Maureen Lipman’s Malvern stop-off, coming as part of her first UK tour in 20 years, finds her taking on the role of title character Allegra - a woman whose irrepressible spirit sees her bursting into song in all manner of situations, and by no means always appropriately...
“To find a comedy which can turn our current face of gloom into an upturned grin of happiness, is rare,” says Maureen. “Allegra is about a woman who is relentlessly upbeat - in more ways than one. Ibsen it isn’t.”
A new comedy from the Olivier and Tony Award-nominated Peter Quilter, the show features a selection of much-loved musical numbers, including Singin’ In The Rain, Ain’t No Sunshine and Dream A Little Dream Of Me.
Theatre for younger audiences
Planet Omar
The Rep, Birmingham, Thurs 18 - Sun 21 June
Presented in association with Birmingham Rep and children’s theatre company Unicorn, this Leeds Playhouse production is based on the critically acclaimed books by Zanib Mian. The show’s focus is the Omar of the title, an eight-year-old British-Pakistani Muslim boy who moves with his family to a new neighbourhood and finds himself faced with a host of challenges. Not least among these is an unfriendly neighbour and a bully who makes Omar’s life feel like a neverending battle.
But all is not lost, thanks not only to the young lad’s nearest and dearest but also to his not-so-average imagination, his best friend Charlie and a very friendly dragon... The production is suitable for children aged seven-plus and comes complete with ‘delightful’ puppets, walking food and a giant piece of cheese...
Theatre
Fireman Sam Live
Birmingham Town Hall, Sat 20 June; Brierley Hill Civic, Thurs 27 August; Malvern Festival Theatre, Sun 6 September
Soon to be celebrating 40 years spent putting out blazes in Pontypandy - and lighting up children’s eyes with delight - Fireman Sam here finds himself yet again saving the day. This time, he’s called into action when perpetual troublemaker Norman Price discovers clues to a pirate treasure and goes exploring deep into the caves...
The Dinosaur That Pooped
Swan Theatre, Worcester, Sat 6 June; Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, Wed 22 July; Lichfield Garrick, Sat 12 September; Birmingham Town Hall, Sun 8 November
Tom Fletcher and Dougie Poynter’s touring production features new songs, a lot of laughs and (not surprisingly given the show’s title) a whole load of poo!
Based on Tom and Dougie’s bestselling children’s books, The Dinosaur That Pooped follows Danny and Dino as they try to get hold of the last two tickets to their favourite rock band’s final concert.
But with a villainous band manager lurking, nothing goes according to plan...
Will the band perform? Will Danny rock out? Or will Dino’s rumbling tummy save the day?...
Peppa Pig’s Big Family Day Out
The Alexandra, Birmingham, Tues 16 & Wed 17 June; Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, Fri 7Sat 8 August
There’s a new arrival on the way, and Peppa Pig, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig and George all need the audience’s help to make sure everything’s ready for the arrival of baby Evie...
If you’ve taken your little ones to any of the previous Peppa Pig stage shows - and enjoyed the experience of watching them having a fantastic time - you’ll already know that this currently touring production is well worth catching.
The Enormous Crocodile
Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, Thurs 4 - Sun 7 June; Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, Thurs 11Sun 14 June; Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Thurs 18 - Sun 21 June
Roald Dahl’s enormous crocodile will be snapping at the heels of audiences across the Midlands this month, when the stage adaptation of the ever-popular children’s book - first published in 1978 - visits three local theatres.
“Roald Dahl’s stories are full of drama, jeopardy and peril,” says writer Suhayla ElBushra, who created the production’s book and lyrics. “That’s why they’re so popular. The Enormous Crocodile is the ultimate peril for its audience because it’s about a very big crocodile who wants to eat a child - and the whole audience is full of children!”
The Cat In The Hat
Stourbridge Town Hall, Sat 6 - Sun 7 June; Worcester Swan Theatre, Fri 26 June
Based on the much-loved book by Dr Seuss, this latest theatrical version of The Cat In The Hat has been designed to engage and (hopefully) delight youngsters aged three and older.
The Cat In The Hat is the funniest, most mischievous cat that Sally and her brother have ever met - and what’s more, he’s got a fantastic talent for turning the rainiest of afternoons into the most amazing of adventures...
Into The Wild And Over The Waves
Birmingham Hippodrome, Mon 29 & Tues 30 June
Bold and imaginative storytelling, brought to life by brilliant young performers, is the promise being made by the producers of this family-friendly offering. The teams behind the show are Birmingham Hippodrome SEN and Drama Youth Theatres, who’ve teamed up to present ‘two hours of pure theatrical magic’, from exploring underwater worlds filled with pirates and hidden treasures, to reviving classic bedtime stories...
KID STUFF
The Karate Kid musical brings the legendary film to life on stage
By Steve Adams
A dynamic new musical adaptation of classic 1980s movie The Karate Kid comes to the Midlands next month. Its stars, Gino Ochello and Adrian Pang, tell What’s On why music adds to the story and explain how the relationship they’ve developed working on the show mirrors that of their characters.
Readers of a certain age will almost certainly be aware of smash-hit martial arts movie The Karate Kid, one of the highest-grossing films of 1984. The global hit, starring Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita, saw bullied teenager Daniel LaRusso turn his fate around by learning martial art - as well as life - skills from older mentor Mr Miyagi, with the latter gaining new perspective and purpose in the process.
Younger readers are likely to have come across the tale too, such is the extent of the franchise built up in the wake of the original’s success. Spin-offs include four movie sequels, an animated television show, a long-running live-action TV series (Cobra Kai) and five video games.
The latest iteration sees the story move to the stage, as well as take things back to where they started. The Karate Kid - The Musical is an adaptation of the original movie, and has been written by Robert Mark Kamen, creator of the 1984 film, with music & lyrics by Drew Gasparini.
The show premiered in the US in 2022 and has now landed in the UK, with Gibraltarborn newcomer Gino Ochello playing Daniel and Singapore -raised veteran Adrian Pang leading the company as Mr Miyagi. The pair’s relevant experience - the show is 18-year-old Gino’s professional stage debut, Adrian has been acting for over 30 years - mirrors that of their characters, and judging by how relaxed they are in each other’s company, they’re developing a similarly firm bond too.
“Absolutely,” says the effervescent Gino.
“This is my first job and I was quite scared, I’m not gonna lie. Entering the rehearsal room for the first time with this cast, who are very experienced in the industry - people like Adrian and Sharon Sexton [who plays Daniel’s mother, Lucille] - was very intimidating. But I’ve learned so much.
Adrian and Sharon feel like my mother and father figures – I moved away at 16 so don’t have them with me and I miss that relationship. I know if I ever need anything, I can come to Adrian and Sharon for advice.”
That ought to include skincare, given the lack of wrinkles on 60-year-old Adrian’s face
(“I’ve been up since half past seven doing this,” he laughs), but the older half of the duo points out that he’s still learning too.
“Every job I do, honestly, and this is not being humble, always seems like the very first job because it’s always a little daunting
stepping into a room full of strangers, and there’s always a weird kind of pressure.
“Oddly enough, this production is happening at a time - and I think Gino knows this - when I’m trying to reinvent myself into a new version of me. Somebody asked me my favourite line from the show, and it’s not a Mr Miyagi line. It’s from the very first song in the show: ‘this is the year I’m ready to rewrite my story.’
“I love the idea of having the chance to write a new chapter of your story, and that’s what, at my time of life, I’m trying to do. Rather than be complacent and go, yeah, I’ve seen it all, done it all, I want every experience to keep feeding me and teaching me. I’m learning a lot from Gino and the whole team. The cast is phenomenal - I watch in awe and admiration at what they do on stage.”
The show blends original songs, choreographed fight sequences and uplifting drama, all of which seem to be attracting a wider-ranging audience demographic than they were expecting.
“It’s much more of a family show than we thought it was going to be,” says Gino, whose revelation that his father was aged one when the original movie came out horrifies Adrian (“I could be your dad’s dad?!”).
“We thought [the show] would be aimed at older generations, but we’ve seen a lot of kids in the audiences,” continues Gino. “At one point in one of our shows, when Daniel does a crane kick [the character’s signature karate move], one of the kids got up and did the crane kick back!”
Adrian thinks the franchise’s “multiple instalments of the continuing story” and universal message has helped extend its potential audience too.
“The legacy has lived on through the last four and a half decades, so across generations the story continues to resonate with people in all sorts of different ways. Paying tribute to the original in a musical fashion is yet another iteration. And I dare say this version is going to make people relate to the story and the heart of it even more.”
Gino dives in to agree.
“The songs mean we’re able to see further into the inner thoughts of Miyagi and Daniel, and even characters we don’t really hear from in the movie. In the musical we actually get to hear their emotions and feelings.”
The coming-of-age element is also something all people will relate to, according to Adrian,
who sees both of the main characters reflected in his own life.
“I’ve got two grown-up boys who are older than this child,” he says, pointing at Gino.
“I’ve seen them through their adolescent and teen years going through their own troubles, all the while trying my best as a dad to be their Mr Miyagi.
“Youths going through periods of isolation, loneliness and feeling like an outcast is something that’s universal and timeless. Even speaking as a 60-year-old man, I go through periods where I cannot deal with the world and feel like a misfit. So, no matter what period it is, and especially at the time we live in, with people going through mental health issues and feeling alienated in communities, I think this story will continue to be relevant for a long time.”
And as much as karate is in the title, the message is more about friendship and connection than learning to punch and kick.
“The story is not about karate per se - it’s about human connection,” says Adrian.
“These two fish-out-of-water misfits, living in their own bubbles, find a way to connect [despite] generational and cultural differences. Two different worlds collide and they form this bond and friendship.”
That being said, Gino claims fans of martial arts won’t be disappointed by the fight sequences, training for which has left him covered in bruises. He had no prior experience (“which kind of worked in my favour because Daniel doesn’t either”), so was surprised to learn that karate is not actually about fighting.
“One of Miyagi’s famous lines is that karate is not in your fists, it’s here (points to his head) and here (points to his heart) - and that is so contrary to everything I thought it was. It’s really for self-defence - you try to avoid fighting as much as possible.”
Not that he, or his character, are able to do that in the show.
“No, there’s a lot of fighting. I’m on the floor for most of Act One… and most of Act Two actually!”
The Karate Kid - The Musical shows at The Alexandra, Birmingham, from Tuesday 21 to Saturday 25 July
Light entertainment from around the region
The Archers: Live At 75
Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, Mon 8 June; Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Wed 9 September; Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Wed 25 November; Wolverhampton Civic Hall, Thurs 26 November
Almost 21,000 episodes of BBC Radio Four soap opera The Archers have been aired since the programme was first broadcast nationally on New Year’s Day 1951. With 75 successful years behind it, it’s no surprise that the ‘everyday story of country folk’ - as it was initially billed - is the world’s longestrunning drama, both in terms of number of episodes and duration.
The organisers of this Live At 75 touring show are urging fans to don their best hat, dust off their prize-winning jam recipe, and make a beeline for the Regent Theatre, where comedian and superfan Angela Barnes will be hosting all manner of entertaining activities, from Bull Pub quizzes to themetune singalongs.
Subject to availability, Angela will be joined for the occasion by cast members Charles Collingwood (who plays Brian Aldridge), Ryan Kelly (Jazzer McCreary), Susie Riddell (Tracy Horrobin) and Sunny Ormonde (Lilian Bellamy).
Q&As, on-the-spot sound effects, behind-thescenes revelations, and ‘unforgettable moments’ from the BBC archives also feature. The show returns to the Midlands region in the autumn.
Dropout Improv
Symphony Hall, Birmingham, Fri 5 June
Since its launch eight years ago, Dropout (formerly CollegeHumor) has become one of the world’s most popular subscription comedy platforms, presenting independent,
ad-free and uncensored content...
Although the cast is subject to change, the line-up of talent for the Birmingham date currently features Vic Michaelis, Jacob Wysocki, Kurt Maloney, Kimia Behpoornia, Jeremy Culhane and Jiavani.
Jay & Joss
Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, Tues 23 June
Fresh from Britain’s Got Talent and Penn & Teller’s Fool Us, awardwinning illusionists Jay & Joss (that’s Jamie Docherty and Lewis Joss) are here inviting their audience into a world where nothing is quite as it seems. Expect ‘jaw-dropping’ stunts, ‘breathtaking’ visuals and ‘mindbending’ magic.
Tim Lucas
Jukebox Idols
Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, Tues 16 June; The Alexandra, Birmingham, Sat 20 June; Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, Wed 1 July; Malvern Theatres, Sun 5 July
This popular touring show offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a nostalgia-drenched journey down memory lane.
Platinum-selling vocal harmony group The Overtones team up with Strictly stars Nadiya Bychkova and Louis Smith to present a tribute to a host of legendary 20th-century artists, including Elvis, The Beatles, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons and The Beach Boys. And with Nadiya and Louis on board, it goes without saying that the music will be accompanied by some show-stopping dance routines...
Derren Brown
Birmingham Hippodrome, Tues 2 - Sat 13 June; Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, Tues 30 June - Sat 4 July
Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Sat 13 June
“I’ve always loved entertaining people,” says triple-threat performer Tim Lucas, “making them laugh, sing along and forget about everything for a couple of hours. This show is me putting everything I love into one place, and I can’t wait to share it with even more people.”
Taking the title We’re Having A Party, Tim’s new production is being described as a highoctane night of live music, stand-up comedy and pure feelgood entertainment. The show comes complete with a live band, dancers and guest vocalists.
Illusionist, mentalist, hypnotist and sceptic, Derren Brown is best known not only for his mindreading act but also for the fact that he claims its success has nothing whatsoever to do with psychic or paranormal practices. Instead, he credits a combination of “magic, suggestion, psychology, misdirection and showmanship”.
Derren stops off in the Midlands this month with brand-new show Only Human, details about which he’s been asking audience members to keep tightly under wraps...
Eric & Ern
Lichfield Garrick, Sat 6 June; Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Spa, Sun 27 September; The Civic, Brierley Hill, Thurs 5 November; The Core, Solihull, Tues 17 November
This homage to Morecambe & Wisewithout doubt the bestloved UK comedy double act of all time - features some of the duo’s most famous sketches. It visits the Garrick three weeks after what would have been Eric’s 100th birthday (Ernie would have become a centenarian last November).
So if you’re of a certain vintage and would like to be reminded of nostalgic 1970s’ family Christmases spent gathered around the television set while Morecambe & Wise made you laugh, this is definitely the show for you.
ONLY HUMAN
Derren Brown brings his new show to the Midlands
By Marianka Swain
Award-winning showman Derren Brown brings his latest offering, Only Human, to the Midlands this month, promising a mind-blowing and thought-provoking experience that combines mind-reading, psychological illusion and ‘breathtaking’ storytelling. After making his name on TV with the series Mind Control, his stage performances continue to amaze audiences, even if live productions bring their fair share of surprises - as Derren here explains...
It is pretty extraordinary that in the socialmedia age, where it’s virtually impossible to keep any information under wraps, Derren Brown’s stage shows remain entirely unspoiled. The great illusionist, who is currently touring the UK with new offering Only Human, has an insight into why...
“People are incredibly good at keeping the secrets. In the first show I ever did, I asked people to keep it quiet, and I was amazed and touched that they did. That was presocial media, but audiences still respect the secrecy - I think it’s part of the fun.”
It’s also testament to the thoughtfully crafted shows which have made Derren such a popular figure. This isn’t just well-performed magic; it’s a deep-dive into human behaviour, and even a source of salient life lessons - albeit with plenty of entertaining showmanship and some jaw-dropping stunts thrown in.
Derren was always interested in this added dimension, even in the early stages of his career. Born in Croydon, he was studying law and German at Bristol University when he saw a hypnotist, Martin Taylor, doing a show.
“I was utterly captivated. I wasn’t much interested in law, so I devoted all my time to learning close-up magic - it was easier to get work doing that than as a hypnotist. But the psychology aspect, and the relationship between the performer and the audience, really fascinated me.”
Derren notes that there weren’t many people doing mentalism at that stage, but he was inspired by performers like Polish mentalist Chan Canasta.
“He was a very charming, masterful, magnetic character - I remember thinking how much weight his act carried. I wanted to create shows that might affect people beyond just making something disappear or getting a card to appear on top of the deck.”
Derren became a household name at the beginning of the millennium thanks to the Channel Four series Mind Control and followups shows Trick Of The Mind and Derren Brown: The Events. He’s also a prolific stage performer, having presented shows including Evening Of Wonders, Enigma, Infamous, Miracle and Showman. But even now, he hesitates to pin down what exactly it is that he does: “It’s quite nice not having a label. It
gives you permission to do so many things. I opened a ghost-train ride at Thorpe Park the same year I published a book [Happy: Why More Or Less Everything Is Absolutely Fine] drawing on Ancient Greek philosophy.”
In his live shows, there’s an element of surprise for Derren as well as his audiencethey often revolve around bringing a member of the general public out on stage. Although live theatre is, by its nature, always changing, that phenomenon is amplified in a production like this. Doesn’t Derren find it nerve-wracking?
“Not really - it keeps it feeling fresh every night. Having different people coming up keeps me in the moment. There are always parts where there isn’t a script, so I’m essentially having to improvise, and it’s just lovely. It makes the show so varied: it can become more funny, or serious. or spooky.” Meanwhile, for the audience, just seeing one of their number up there changes how they engage with the show.
“Everyone has a vicarious relationship with the person on stage, thinking ‘That could be me!’ Sometimes, the person will talk in a way that’s very vulnerable and open, and it creates this warm, connective feeling in the audience - we’re all naturally empathetic. It’s different to more traditional magic acts, where the volunteer is basically a prop.”
Derren selects his volunteers carefully, using a few tried-and-tested methods.
“There are things I can do in the show to see who is more responsive, and filter out people who aren’t. I do choose some people at random too, by throwing out frisbees. But I should make it clear that you absolutely don’t have to come on stage - you can always hand the frisbee to the person next to you.
“It’s actually helpful if I get someone, at random, who’s more sceptical, more antagonistic and trying to catch me out, because it makes them more predictable. For example, if I ask someone to think of a letter of the alphabet, and they’re trying to throw me, they’ll probably go for either Q or Z.”
Derren explains he doesn’t worry about going off track, since it makes the live shows more interesting and authentic. “The whole show is basically going to be a series of little things going wrong. I once struggled to get a lid off a marker pen, but oddly that made it feel more
human and added to the jeopardy - it’s like a juggler dropping a ball.
“In one show, I had a running gag about pretending to be a bad psychic and trying to get someone’s phone number. The big climax involved people shouting out long numbers, and then I’m multiplying them, and magically I get it right. Well, one night it went completely wrong - and worse, we had pyrotechnics and a confetti cannon going off! I felt terrible, but people still had a good time. I’ve learnt that when stuff goes wrong, you just park it, find a solution and carry on. It’s something I try to apply in the rest of my life, too.”
Only Human differs from Derren’s previous live endeavours in terms of both its aesthetics and a number of key production elements.
“It looks more modern, instead of having that faded grandeur vintage feel. We’ve got a fantastic video & lighting team doing amazing things. I hope it’s moving and surprising, and takes people to places they’re not expecting. Audiences so far have been fantastic. I feel like every night I’m going on a ride with them.”
The Only Human tour continues around the country until August, stopping off in the Midlands this very month.
“I love touring. It’s great discovering how the audience in each place thinks, and how they express themselves.”
Derren also gets to know these different locations through their coffee shops: “One of the big appeals of touring is this gift of spending my days doing what I like - so I often head to a coffee shop and write. Then, each night, I get to be on stage.
“[With] Only Human, we want to give you something unique that you can’t get from a magic show or another sort of show. It should give you an emotional ride, food for thought, and a real sense of wonder.”
Derren Brown: Only Human runs at Birmingham Hippodrome from Tuesday 2 to Saturday 13 June. The production then returns to the region at the end of the month, showing at the Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, from Tuesday 30 June to Saturday 4 July
Dance showing in the region
Balletboyz: Still Pointless
Lichfield Garrick, Tues 9 June; The Rep, Birmingham, Tues 16 June; Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, Fri 19 June
Comprising an all-male company of 10 remarkable dancers, the irreverent, inventive and always boundary-busting Balletboyz return to the Midlands with a show to celebrate their 25th anniversary. The production features an excerpt from Russell Maliphant’s seminal work Critical Mass and showcases the world premiere of a
Amy & Carlos: Reborn
commission by Seirian Griffiths. Also included is a selection of Balletboyz highlights from across the years, incorporating work by such leading lights as choreographers Christopher Wheeldon, Maxine Doyle and Javier de Frutos, and composers Cassie Kinoshi, Ben Foskett, Keaton Henson and Max Richter.
present a production exploring the subject of ‘the future’.
The Alexandra, Birmingham, Fri 19 June Show-stopping routines abound as Amy Dowden and Carlos Gu reunite to present ‘an intimate portrait of their lives and journeys’. The Strictly Come Dancing favouritesjoined for the occasion by ‘a dazzling cast of world-class dancers and amazing live vocalists’ - will be strutting their stuff to a soundtrack of iconic anthems from across the decades.
Ballet Black At 25
Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Tues 9 June
BalletBoyz (see top of the page) aren’t the only dance ensemble this year celebrating their quarter-century anniversary... Ballet Black have also notched up 25 glorious years of performance, taking to stages across the world under the guidance of their highly rated artistic director, Cassa Pancho. Comprising British and international dancers of black and Asian descent, the company are
visiting Wolverhampton this month with a double bill to mark their special birthday. The featured works are the Olivier Awardwinning Ingoma (2019) - bringing the rarely told stories of Black miners and their communities to the stage - and a new offering from Hope Boykin, created especially for Ballet Black’s anniversary and paying ‘vibrant tribute’ to the company’s journey.
2 Faced Dance: Tomorrow
Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury, Tues 23 June
As part of the journey towards their stated aim of becoming ‘a worldwide leader in the production of breathtaking, physical and inspirational dance’, the Herefordshire-based and all-male 2Faced Dance Company here
Choreographed by Tamsin Fitzgerald, the show features a newly commissioned score by Ivor Novello-nominated composer Thomas Haines.
Ballet Cymru: Sleeping Beauty
New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Mon 8 June; Lichfield Cathedral, Mon 13 July
Visiting an impressive number of venues throughout the country on an annual basis, Ballet Cymru have garnered a welldeserved reputation as an innovative ensemble dedicated to performing classical ballet in an original and unpretentious way.
Their New Vic stop-off sees them celebrating their 40th anniversary with a production of Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty.
DANCING LEGEND
Birmingham Royal Ballet are this month celebrating Sir Peter Wright’s centenary year...
Photo credit: Michael Somes
By Diane
Birmingham Royal Ballet’s Sir Peter Wright marks a milestone birthday this year, turning 1oo in November, and the Company will be celebrating the occasion in style - as Director Carlos Acosta recently explained to What’s On...
Ballet superstar Carlos Acosta has danced with internationally renowned companies across the world, and this month he is looking forward to a special performance in Birmingham when he will dance in honour of Sir Peter Wright.
Birmingham Royal Ballet director Carlos will take the role of Death in the seminal work The Green Table as part of the company’s celebrations to mark the 100th birthday of Sir Peter - the man who brought BRB to the Midlands.
As director of Sadler’s Wells Royal Ballet from 1977, Sir Peter spearheaded the company’s move to Birmingham Hippodrome and its relaunch as Birmingham Royal Ballet in 1990. He continued at its helm until 1995 and remains closely linked to the company, both as founding director laureate and as the choreographer of some of BRB’s most popular works, including The Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake, Coppélia and Giselle.
Carlos says that the centenary celebration at Birmingham Hippodrome on 18 June is a way for the company to pay tribute to Sir Peter’s great achievements with BRB and beyond.
“He is our founding father and a very important and greatly loved figure in the world of ballet. He has had an extraordinary life and career, and has given the world his choreography.
“In my, and many others’ opinion, his Nutcracker is the greatest Nutcracker in the world, and it is a regular in our repertoire. It has proved to be popular for more than 30 years, and this year we broke ticket sales records with our most successful Nutcracker ever, with sold-out shows and over 44,000 tickets sold.
“Sir Peter was instrumental in our move from Sadler’s Wells Theatre into Birmingham - he planted the seed for everything that followed, and I am very honoured to direct the company that he created.”
The gala event features excerpts from many of Sir Peter’s hit ballets, and he was also keen for the programme to include Kurt Jooss’ 1932 creation, The Green Table. The work has a special resonance for Sir Peter: he trained with Ballet Jooss in the 1940s and made his stage debut as a soldier in The Green Table.
German dancer and choreographer Jooss created the ballet at a time when his country was witnessing the rise of Nazism. Exploring the horror and futility of war, it satirises
leaders who have the power to make peace and yet choose conflict by portraying a group of diplomats attempting to negotiate around a green table. Their failure to reach an agreement leads the work into a series of scenes presenting the consequences of war in ordinary lives, where the only victor is Death.
The Sir Peter Wright Centenary will be the first time Carlos has performed the role of Death - which he will do for one special night only.
“I’ve never had the possibility to perform in The Green Table before, and now I’m training for it. My dancing the part is going to be a one-off, just for the Centenary, and a way to pay homage to the founding father of our company. I’m looking forward to it. I think this is something that I will always remember, and it will probably mark one of the highlights of my directorship because not only will I represent the company as director, I will also be contributing as a dancer.
“Sir Peter has wanted us to present this work for a long time and has said that it’s his favourite ballet, as well as it marking the beginning of him performing. And it’s not just him; I have had other people who remember the piece very well saying every so often that it would be wonderful for us to present it. As we were approaching Sir Peter’s centenary, it felt like this was the right occasion for it.”
The Green Table was last performed by BRB in the early 1990s. Its return this month is timely, says Carlos: “Despite its age, it is revolutionary. It has a very strong anti-war message, it’s very theatrical and poignant; a timeless masterpiece. With all the wars that are going on, and the division and the polarisation of the world - the fact that we are waking up to different realities all the time and new wars are breaking out - it works so well now.
“We are in a world where we cannot allow ourselves to think ahead to what is going to happen next year, as we don’t even know what is going to happen next month. And I think that is when art works at its best; when it reflects the world. And that is what this will do.”
The Green Table also forms part of the programme for Birmingham Royal Ballet’s 20th-Century Masterpieces triple bill, which will be performed at the Hippodrome on the 19th & 20th of June.
Jooss’ classic will be danced alongside Frederick Ashton’s Birthday Offering, which
is set to music by Alexander Glazunov, and George Balanchine’s Theme And Variations, performed to the fourth movement of Tchaikovsky’s Orchestral Suite No3.
Carlos, who will not be dancing at these performances, says the triple bill aims to showcase the expertise of BRB’s dancers.
“The level of the company has risen a lot, and this programme gives audiences a chance to see the talent we currently have. It will be the first time we have performed Birthday Offering in more than 30 years. And then we have Theme And Variations, which is one of those powerhouse ballets within our repertory and shows how versatile our company is.
“Theme And Variations was choreographed by Balanchine for Alicia Alonso, the lead Cuban ballerina who created the Cuban National Ballet School and National Ballet of Cuba, the school and the company where I came from in Havana. So I think that particular work resonates a lot on a personal level.”
For Carlos, the productions help showcase the company and its aims.
“These programmes are celebrating our founder and our heritage. Our mission is to preserve our dance heritage while at the same time touring and creating new ballets.
“These performances culminate a season which has been very well balanced. We had Black Sabbath - The Ballet at the beginning of the season, which sold out just about everywhere. We had The Nutcracker at Christmas, Don Quixote has been on tour, and then we have these heritage ballets.
“This means audiences can see new works, classics and heritage ballets - these are all part of who we are.”
20th-Century Masterpieces is supported by donors to the Caroline Miller Fund. The Green Table is supported by Stuart Sweeney and Fern & Clive Potter. Birthday Offering is supported by The Frederick Ashton Foundation and The Rick Mather David Scrase Foundation.
BRB present the Sir Peter Wright Centenary on Thursday 18 June, ahead of 20th-Century Masterpieces on Friday 19 & Saturday 20 June. All performances take place at Birmingham Hippodrome
Film highlights in June...
Erupcja CERT 12a (71 mins)
Starring Charli XCX, Lena Góra, Will Madden, Jeremy O Harris, Agata Trzebuchowska, Maja Michnacka Directed by Peter Ohs
Prolific pop star Charli XCX has been busily reinventing herself of late, transferring some of her workaholic energy from musicmaking to film acting. Erupcja, which is Polish for Eruption, is one of several recent forays into movieland and is both a slight and slightly curious piece.
Coming in at a magnificently modest 71 minutes - something of a refreshing change, given the current tendency to make films with running times well in excess of two hours - it tells the story of a friendship between Bethany (Charli XCX) and her teenage friend Nel - one which never fails to be thrillingly explosive whenever the two of them come together.
Premiered at the Toronto Film Festival last year, Erupcja has garnered mainly positive reviews, with Charli XCX’s performance fairing reasonably well with the critics.
Released Fri 5 June
Disclosure Day
CERT 12a (145 mins)
Starring Emily Blunt, Josh O'Connor, Eve Hewson, Colman Domingo, Wyatt Russell, Colin Firth Directed by Steven Spielberg
“When I was just a little kid,” explains Steven Spielberg in a featurette for Disclosure Day, “I remember developing a real curiosity about the sky at night and what's happening up there. And also, not the possibility, but the guarantee that there is life off this planet.”
Spielberg has certainly monetised his fascination with outer space and the mysteries of the cosmos, having previously helmed box-office hits Close Encounters Of The Third Kind, E.T. The ExtraTerrestrial and War Of The Worlds. Now he’s back in the director’s chair for Disclosure Day, the plot of which has been kept pretty much under wraps, but with speculation rife that it’s actually a stealth sequel to 1978’s Close Encounters Of The Third Kind...
Universal, the studio making the movie, released the following synopsis: “If you found out we weren't alone, if someone showed you, proved it to you, would that frighten you? This summer, the truth belongs to seven billion people. We are coming close to… 'Disclosure Day.’”
Based on an original story by Spielberg, the film’s script has been penned by his longtime collaborator, David Koepp (Jurassic Park: The Lost World and War Of The Worlds). Released Wed 10 June
Madfabulous
CERT 12a (108 mins)
Starring Rupert Everett, Callum Scott Howells, Siobhán McSweeney, Greta Jones, Ruby Stokes, Louis Hynes Directed by Celyn Jones
Described as a riotous, uncompromising celebration of otherness, Madfabulous is inspired by the true story of Henry Cyril Paget. An unlikely British aristocrat - arriving in North Wales at the end of the 19th century to assume his rightful title of Fifth Marquess of Anglesey - he smashed society’s notions of class, gender and decorum. In the process, his hedonisitic lifestyle saw him squander a vast fortune in a short space of time - he died aged just 29 following a long battle with comsumption.
“It’s a crowd pleaser,” explains director Celyn Jones in talking about Madfabulous, his solo feature debut. “But at the same time, [there are] deep thoughts and feelings and messages in there. It’s for as many people as possible.” Released Fri 5 June
Savage House
CERT 15 (114 mins)
Starring Richard E Grant, Claire Foy, Sebastian Armesto, Roger Ashton-Griffiths, Robert Bathurst, Erin Battle Directed by Peter Glanz
Duels, decadence and bloodshed are the name of the game for Sir Chauncey and Lady Savage, a dastardly, power-hungry couple who are ruthlessly pursuing a higher social standing in 18th-century England - albeit against a backdrop of plague and political unrest...
“[As a director] you never want to be prescriptive or academic,” says Peter Glanz, of his sophomore feature. “That’s why I love period films. They allow us to be a step removed, to look in the mirror and see ourselves - and hopefully laugh at ourselveswithout the preconceived baggage of modern life. In 1715, we had a deadly epidemic, a disputed king, extreme inequity - far worse than today - and a polarised society taking to the streets in protest and riots. It felt fitting as a backdrop for biting satire and a cautionary tale of greed and social climbing.”
Released Fri 5 June
Toy Story 5
CERT U (90 mins)
Voices of Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, Keanu Reeves, Annie Potts, Wallace Shawn
Directed by McKenna Harris and Andrew Stanton
Toy Story is very much the franchise that just keeps on giving. Breaking through - back in the 1990s - in a way that most other animated movies fail to manage, the terrific tale of talking toys and its three sequels have all enjoyed huge box office success, with the return for this fifth installment of cowboy Woody, astronaut Buzz Lightyear and cowgirl Jessie being eagerly anticipated by diehard fans. As one would expect, the storyline of this latest chapter chimes with developments in the modern age, and in particular the anxiety surrounding the inexorable march of technology. Can Woody and the gang somehow sidestep the existential threat of electronic toys and devices, and specifically a frog-like tablet named Lilypad?
Tom Hanks, Tim Allen and Joan Cusack all make a welcome return to once again lend their voices to the characters of Woody, Buzz and Jessie respectively. Released Fri 19 June
Scary Movie
CERT tbc (95 mins)
Starring Anna Faris, Lochlyn Munro, Damon Wayans Jr, Regina Hall, Marlon Wayans, Chris Elliott Directed by Michael Tiddes
It’s taken a good while - 13 years, to be accurate - for the sixth Scary Movie film to see the light of day, but no doubt much to the delight of the franchise’s legion of fans, it’s finally landing this month.
For those not in the know, the first film was released way back in the year 2000, scoring a massive box-office hit on the back of its clever spoofing of the slasher-pic genre. Subsequent entries have continued in the same vein, parodying haunted-house tropes and all manner of movies, from The Ring, The Haunting and The Exorcist to films as diverse as Fifty Shades Of Grey, Planet Of The Apes and Brokeback Mountain.
This latest entry features a reunion of the original characters and a further encounter with the masked serial killer Ghostface.
Released Fri 5 June
A
Private Life
CERT 15 (107 mins)
Starring Jodie Foster, Daniel Auteuil, Virginie Efira, Mathieu Amalric, Vincent Lacoste, Luàna Bajrami Directed by Rebecca Zlotowski
Lilian Steiner is a renowned psychiatrist. When she learns of the death of a patient, she becomes convinced it was murder. Disturbed, she decides to conduct her own investigation, assisted in the endeavour by her ex-husband...
Reviews of award-winning director Rebecca Zlotowski’s A Private Life, which premiered in Cannes last year, have been generally positive. The Hollywood Reporter certainly enjoyed the movie: ‘Under Zlotowski’s guidance, [the film] caroms from sexy romantic comedy to Hitchcockian mystery to zany amateur-sleuth caper, with Freudian psychology always lurking beneath.’
Jodie Foster - speaking French throughouthas been picking up plenty of plaudits for her performance as psychiatrist Lillian.
Released Fri 26 June
Supergirl
CERT tbc (110 mins)
Starring Milly Alcock, Eve Ridley, Matthias Schoenaerts, Jason Momoa, David Corenswet, David Krumholtz Directed by Craig Gillespie
Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s the latest attempt to relaunch the DC Cinematic Universe. With plenty of duds to its name over the past several years, DC Studios is now turning to one of its longest-established but secondary characters in an attempt to reboot its output: Kara Zor-El - better known to any and every comic-book enthusiast as Supergirl. The studio is confident that its next wave of films will turn its reputation on its head, with co-CEO Peter Safran adamant that recent box-office flops in the genre have had nothing to do with superhero fatigue and everything to do with execrable movies.
“You gotta try something new,” he told the Associated Press last month. “You have to change the game a little bit. The essential story on which Supergirl is based is something cool and original and which we haven't seen before.” Released Fri 26 June
TAKE A SEAT
Artist Michael Pinsky turns auctioneer with latest show
The Final Bid - opening at MAC next month...
By Jessica Clixby
Making its UK premiere at Midlands Arts Centre (MAC), The Final Bid is an interactive exhibition which offers a new outlook on familiar objects. From late July, the venue’s first-floor gallery will exhibit a selection of chairs donated by members of the general public who have also shared the stories behind those donations. Visitors can place bids to buy whichever chair takes their fancy. Michael Pinsky, the artist behind the exhibition, is using the show to reframe the way we value the everyday items around us, and to interrupt the expected consumer process - as he told What’s On…
There are few items more ‘everyday’ than the humble chair. Whether the wheely office variety, a comfy armchair, or sturdy dining furniture, few people spend their days without interacting with a seat of some kind. This summer, courtesy of artist Michael Pinsky, a selection of chairs will find their moment in the spotlight, in a major exhibition at Midlands Arts Centre (MAC), titled The Final Bid.
The chairs, which have been given to the installation by members of the public, will be available to purchase by way of auction listings. In the months that the exhibition is on display, and as the value of each chair increases according to visitors’ bids, the chairs themselves will physically rise in the gallery - connected to the ceiling by electronic winches.
“The chairs will get nearer and nearer the ceiling,” Michael explains. “The gallery actually has quite a high ceiling, which is one of the attractions of doing the show here. At the end of the show, the people who have made the successful bids will receive the chairs. We drop them back down to the ground again, and we'll have an event where people can receive the chairs.”
It’s not just a question of aesthetics - when placing bids, visitors can read about each chair’s history. At The Final Bid’s only previous showing, the personal anecdotes behind the chairs proved to be a big hit - and the concept comes with a story of its own… “This kind of comes from my (now dead) uncle in the States, who lived in LA,” Michael explains. “He used to do garage sales, then went into the very early days of eBay. And he would make up stories about the objects, like, ‘I found this in my grandmother's attic...’ He found that things sold much better when they were attached to a story - even though he completely lied about the stories. That's the way he was - a cheeky uncle.
“In Germany, where we showed it before, some people bought the chairs just because they really liked the chairs, but other people bought them because of the associations and the stories as well - so the narrative was as important as the object.”
Michael’s work is often created with the intention of reaching audiences who are not generally immersed in the world of art and curation. The bold messages behind his installations can be communicated in a couple of sentences. This was true with
Plunge, for instance - which indicated on national monuments the predicted sea levels of the year 3012 - and also with L'eau Qui Dort, which made an artistic display of items dredged from the canals of Paris.
“Simplicity is actually very difficult to achieve. Making concepts ambiguous, obscured and complex is easy. Making something that really grips people and is simple, both in its visual manifestation and its thematics or concepts - that's actually really challenging. It's something I try and work on a lot. I come up with a lot of complicated ideas, and then I really have to strip them down.”
Environmental commentary has been a recurring theme in Michael’s work, and while The Final Bid perhaps has a more nuanced ecological message, it explores the nature of consumption, and questions whether buying new is necessary.
“I became interested in the difference between recycling and reuse. Recycling has become this kind of environmental excuse, let's call it - everyone feels quite pleased with themselves because they put their things in the recycling bin… A lot of that stuff ends up on ships travelling around the world where no one wants it.
“Another side is the amount of energy that you need to recycle. Reuse has very low energy input - very, very sustainable - but it also questions the notion of buying things in the first place. So much of what we're buying, in terms of our clothes, or the fashion of the house in this case, we just don't need it. I can't imagine anyone needing to buy a new chair.”
Admitting how easy it can be to buy new, mass-produced furniture, Michael highlights that such furniture is not made to be repaired and sustained. Instead, these often nonrecyclable items are thrown away when they reach the end of their useful life.
“If you get a nice wooden table, and it’s just made of wood, nothing else, you can repair that forever; it will last forever. You can sand it down, you can re-coat it. You could get another bit of wood, you can repair it. That will last forever.”
The Final Bid aims to encourage its viewers to see the value in reuse and repair, interrupting the mass-production pipeline. Another of Michael’s works called attention to the production process in a similar way; in Making A Stand, raw wooden planks became
an art installation during a year of outdoor seasoning and weathering which, at the same time, increased the wood’s value.
“I made that year of seasoning into an artwork and then put [the wood] back in the supply chain. I feel like the same principle is at play with The Final Bid - I'm actually not making anything, I'm just taking these chairs and announcing them as a kind of kinetic artwork. It's there for a period of time, and then the chairs go into a new place. I'm not offering a product, I'm offering a service… The principle is that there's nothing left. It's not just the messaging, but actually the methodology that follows those principlessome of my early artworks, they're announcing something, but I'm not following those principles in the same artwork.”
It’s not the first time Michael has exhibited work at MAC. In 2023, he displayed his immersive Pollution Pods, which replicate air pollution levels from different cities around the world. The show took place after the Arts Centre had caught his attention as a hive of creative activity.
“I didn't know about MAC before. They invited me out to look at the site. It was a Tuesday - I cycled out there, through this park, and I expected to arrive somewhere really quiet. It was full of people! They were eating there, doing this and that... I thought, wow, this is an amazing place.”
With The Final Bid aiming to spark a conversation about the value - whether financial or sentimental - which we place on ordinary items, Michael believes that MAC’s creative melting pot is the perfect place to exhibit.
“[Visitors] might be interested in doing a pottery workshop, they might be interested in catching a film, they'll catch a show. That general cultural interest is so important. It's places like MAC that are so important - and so rare nowadays - for fostering that general cultural excitement and interest. It's a sevenyear-old going in there, seeing something [and thinking] ‘Oh actually, this is something I'm interested in.’ If you don't get a chance to see it, you're never going to be interested in it.”
The Final Bid shows at Midlands Arts Centre (MAC) from Saturday 25 July to Sunday 4 October
Visual Arts previews from around the region
Daiga Grantina: Lilacs
Mead Gallery, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, until Sun 28 June
Warwick Arts Centre’s Mead Gallery is here hosting the first UK solo exhibition by Latvian artist Daiga Grantina.
Drawing inspiration from bodies and landscapes, Daiga creates sculptures which explore how materials meet and react to each other in ways that make the viewer look again at their size, form and meaning
For her Mead Gallery exhibition, Daiga has responded to the venue’s architecture and natural light with new and existing works, to expand on ideas explored in What Eats Around Itself, her critically acclaimed solo exhibition at the New Museum in New York.
“I am excited to be working with the Mead Gallery team,” says Daiga, “and to [create] a dialogue with the gallery’s generous volumes. I hope my exhibition will offer audiences a sense of light relief during darker times.”
Genevieve Robertson: Under The Orange Sticks Of The Sun
Midlands Arts Centre (MAC), Birmingham, until Sun 5 July
Working at the intersection of visual art and environmental studies, Canadian artist Genevieve Robertson produces work which is powerfully informed by a personal and intergenerational history of forestry labour in remote locations across British Columbia.
Genevieve’s practice is grounded in drawing and painting but also extends to video, installation and various forms of collective work and collaboration.
The Countryside Through Mid-Century Art
Netherwood Estate, Herefordshire, Fri 5 - Sun 14 June
The Countryside Through Mid-Century Art coincides with a rare opportunity to visit the three-acre Netherwood Manor Gardens, which are open for just a handful of weekends this year as part of the National Garden Scheme.
Growing out of a previously displayed collection of landscape paintings by World War Two war artist John Piper, the exhibition includes work by a number of
Her Birmingham exhibition explores the interconnection between natural and industrial histories, vegetal intelligence and ecological trauma.
The display examines two forested sites separated by 310 million years and 7,000 kilometres: the ancient swamps of the Black Country and a slope in British Columbia which has recently been affected by fire and logging.
his contemporaries, offering a compelling exploration of how the British landscape was represented across multiple media in the mid-20th century.
As well as original works by Piperincluding a feature collection of fabricsthe show also includes artwork by, among others, Katharine Church, Elisabeth Frink, Rowland Suddaby and Robert Tavener. The exhibition is curated by Fifties Art & Design - specialists in affordable midcentury art, and stockists of a range of original pictures, prints and posters from the period.
Stuart Whipps: The Formation Of The Universe
New Art Gallery, Walsall, until Sun 5 July
Award-winning Birmingham artist Stuart Whipps’ latest project sees him focusing on the Black Country’s geology, which spans 428 million years and is well known for its exceptional fossils and varied landscapes.
Stuart has visited geosites across the Walsall Borough in order to accumulate material to take back to the studio. His fieldwork has included researching the history of fossil collecting in the area, and gathering together anecdotal material from the communities who use the sites today. The resulting analogue and digital photographic and film work serves to connect stories, places and materials in the Black Country.
Andy Warhol: Art Star
Wolverhampton Art Gallery, until Sun 4 October
Wolverhampton Art Gallery’s tribute to Andy Warhol is an Artist Rooms exhibition created in partnership with Tate and National Galleries of Scotland.
The display includes both iconic and lesserknown drawings, screenprints, paintings and photographs from the 1950s to the 1980s. Warhol’s famous Campbell’s soup tin features in the show, taking its place alongside images of The Beatles, Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor.
In November 1922, in the Valley of the Kings at Thebes, archaeologist Howard Carter made a breathtaking discovery.
“At first I could see nothing, the hot air escaping from the chamber causing my candle flame to flicker,” recalled Carter. “But presently, as my eyes grew accustomed to the light, details of the room within emerged slowly from the mist; strange animals, statues and goldeverywhere the glint of gold.”
After years of painstaking but fruitless searching in the Valley of the Kings, Carter had unearthed the tomb of a little-known Pharaoh of the 18th Dynasty: Tutankhamun.
In so doing, he had made one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of all time.
Now, more than a century later, the incredible find is being celebrated with Tutankhamun: The Immersive Exhibition, an award-winning touring show which is spending the summer at Birmingham’s NEC.
Offering Midlanders the chance to take a ‘breathtaking journey’ into ancient Egypt, its highlights include a Howard Carter-narrated movie featuring 360-degree projections, a seated virtual-reality journey through the mystical Egyptian afterlife, and an interactive digital Metaverse walk-through of the Valley of the Kings.
Two ‘exceptionally curated’ treasure rooms also feature, showcasing authentic replicas and a selection of original artefacts dating back to 4000BC. These include a funerary shabti from the 20th Dynasty - part of Howard Carter’s private collection - and statuettes and vases from the reign of Tutankhamun.
The exhibition, which has been viewed by millions of people in cities around the world, is showing in Birmingham for a strictly limited 12week period. Organisers are advising that visitors should set aside 90 minutes to properly experience the show.
Tutankhamun Immersive Exhibition
NEC Campus, Birmingham, Fri 19 June - Sun 13 September
Events previews from around the region
BBC Gardeners’ World Live is packed full of home-growing inspiration, expert advice and show-stopping garden displays, making it the ideal place to visit if you’re a greenfingered enthusiast.
The show’s headline feature, Adam Frost’s Tasting Table, is back, blending the worlds of gastronomy and gardening. Adam will be joined by special guests including Si King, Lisa Faulkner and James Martin.
Also making a return, and celebrating its
10th anniversary, is the inspiring APL Avenue, presenting three stylish new outdoor spaces.
A celebration of plants and expertise, the ever-popular Floral Marquee is ‘the ultimate shopping destination’ for gardeners and plant lovers alike. Visitors can also check out the all-new Book Shop - with live book signings - and access hands-on advice from leading experts on the Let’s Talk Plants Stage.
The Good Food Show Summer makes a welcome return this month, promising to offer the ultimate foodie day out.
New for 2026, the Big Kitchen’s Celebrity Bites attraction will see well-known guests join top chefs to chat about food, make recipes and create cocktails. Also debuting this year is the brand-new Greek Kitchen, where visitors can experience a true taste of Greece, while for cocktail
connoisseurs there’s the Princess Cruises Cocktail Club, presenting interactive sessions teaching professional techniques and introducing cocktails inspired by Princess Cruises’ signature menus. As always, visitors will have the opportunity to taste food & drink in Katy Truss’ Fabulous Food Finds Tasting Theatre, and to shop for new products in the Producers Village and Food Champions zone.
Events
Weston Park Model Air Show
Weston Park, Shropshire, Fri 19 - Sun 21 June
Now in its 29th year, Weston Park’s Model Air Show combines aerial displays with familyfriendly entertainment, attracting pilots and visitors from around the world.
Spectators can expect everything from highspeed jets and scale aircraft to helicopters, boats, cars and live demonstrations.
A major highlight is the Saturday evening Aerial Pyro Spectacular, where aerobatics, fireworks and music combine to create an ‘unforgettable’ night-time experience. And new for 2026, Richard Browning will be making a special appearance with his gravity jet suit!
Cheltenham Science Festival
various venues across Cheltenham, Tues 2 - Sun 7 June
Cheltenham Science Festival returns with a bold and inspiring programme exploring ‘the ideas shaping our future’. Comprising more than 100 events, the festival brings together world-leading scientists, thinkers and innovators to discuss AI, climate change, wellbeing, technology, crime, politics and the environment... Visitors can enjoy talks, workshops, live demonstrations and family activities, presented alongside free interactive zones including The Arcade, MakerShack and the Discover Zone... Jimmy Wales, Alice Roberts, Deborah Meaden and Richard Susskind are among the well-known names contributing to this year’s festival.
Step Back To The 1940s
Severn Valley Railway, nr Kidderminster, Sat 27 & Sun 28 June and Sat 4 & Sun 5 July
The Severn Valley Railway’s much-loved Step Back To The 1940s event returns across two weekends this summer, transforming the heritage railway into a living celebration of wartime Britain.
Visitors can board steam trains and travel along the line, stopping at stations to check out vintage vehicles, live music, dance performances, military displays and immersive reenactments. From Winston Churchill speeches and Home Guard patrols, to wartime marketplaces and classic entertainment, the event recreates the sights and sounds of the British home front. Evening big band shows add to the atmosphere, making this a nostalgic and entertaining family experience for people of all ages.
BBC Gardeners’ World Live NEC, Birmingham, Thurs 18 - Sun 21 June
Good Food Show Summer NEC, Birmingham, Thurs 18 - Sun 21 June
Events previews from around the region
Royal Three Counties Show
Three Counties Showground, Malvern, Fri 12 - Sun 14 June
The Royal Three Counties Show returns midmonth with its annual celebration of British farming, food and countryside living. One of the UK’s largest agricultural events, the show promises a packed programme of livestock displays, equine competitions, family entertainment and hands-on rural experiences. Across the weekend, visitors
will be able to enjoy local artisan food & drink, countryside shopping, machinery showcases and live demonstrations. Expert talks, arena attractions, and special guests from the worlds of farming and television - including Countryfile’s Adam Henson and Clarkson’s Farm’s Kaleb Cooper - further add to the event’s appeal.
Drivers Automotive Show West Mid Showground, Shrewsbury, Sun 21 June
The organisers of Drivers Automotive Show are this year promising a bigger and louder celebration of car culture than ever before. Showcasing everything from modified builds and retro classics to supercars, 4x4s and modern performance vehicles, the event
brings together enthusiasts from across the UK for a packed day of automotive fun. Alongside its huge vehicle display areas, the show also features live DJs, trader stands and food & drink vendors, with competitions and awards held throughout the day.
The RAF Cosford Air Show 2026
RAF Cosford, Shifnal, Shropshire, Sun 14 June
Expected to attract over 50,000 visitors, The Royal Air Force Museum Cosford Air Show is one of the UK’s premier aviation events.
The show features flying displays, historic military aircraft, modern jets, aerobatic teams and interactive ground exhibitions.
Families and aviation enthusiasts can explore static aircraft displays, STEM activities, food stalls and live demonstrations throughout the day. Tickets include access to the full showground, with children under the age of 16 attending free alongside paying adults.
Potfest By The Lake
Compton Verney, Warwickshire, Fri 19 - Sun 21 June
Potfest By The Lake at Compton Verney is one of the UK’s leading ceramics festivals, bringing together more than 90 talented ceramic artists from across Britain and beyond. Set within the beautiful Capability Brown parkland surrounding the historic house, the event features handmade pottery, sculpture and contemporary ceramic art displayed in large open-sided marquees beside the lake. Visitors can meet makers, purchase unique pieces and check out demonstrations, food stalls and scenic walks around the grounds.
History Weekend
Sudeley Castle, Cheltenham, Fri 26 - Sun 28 June
This special Sudeley Castle event celebrates over 1,000 years of history with three days of talks, tours and interactive experiences. The event explores Tudor, Civil War, Georgian and Victorian stories connected to the estate and its famous residents, including Queen Katherine Parr.
Visitors can enjoy expert-led sessions, storytelling, archive displays, themed tours and special evening talks from renowned historians, with many activities being included in the general admission price. The weekend concludes with a traditional Evensong service in the castle chapel.
Miss SaigonBirmingham Hippodrome, Tues 23Sat 27 June
thelist
VISUAL ARTS ACROSS THE MIDLANDS
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
OZZY OSBOURNE: WORKING CLASS
HERO A celebration of the solo achievements and global awards of rock icon Ozzy Osbourne, and the album art of the original Black Sabbath lineup, created to coincide with their historic homecoming concert, until Sun 27 September
BIRMINGHAM MEDIA ARCHIVE
PROJECT: THE FIRST DECADE 19821992 Explore the city’s overlooked media heritage through the work of pioneering organisations, until Sun 28 June Compton Verney, Warwickshire
BRUEGEL TO REMBRANDT: DRAWING LIFE, SKETCHING
WONDER Explore the wonders of Dutch and Flemish drawing with over 60 works from the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, many never before seen in the UK, until Sun 28 June
TROUBLEMAKERS AND PROPHETS:
ELIZABETH ALLEN AND OTHER
VISIONARY ARTISTS A bold, immersive exhibition exploring art, isolation and extraordinary vision, through Allen’s creations - absurd, darkly funny, and strikingly prophetic, until Mon 31 August
MODERN MASTERPIECES: PAINTINGS FROM THE BARBER INSTITUTE OF FINE ARTS An intimate display of six exceptional paintings by major modern artists, including Vincent van Gogh, PierreAuguste Renoir, Édouard Vuillard and Pierre Bonnard, until Sun 6 September Coventry Music Museum
BEING HAZEL Exhibition celebrating Coventry-born legend Hazel O’Connor’s life and career through memorabilia, displays and clips.
The Exchange, Centenary Square, Birmingham
HELIOS BY LUKE JERRAM A stunning illuminated sculpture by acclaimed British artist Luke Jerram. An immersive and rare opportunity to gaze at our closest star, until Sun 1 Nov
SEEING THE SUN Inspired by artist Luke Jerram’s illuminated sculpture, Helios, The Exchange presents a new exhibitiondiscover the Sun like never before through the lens of University of Birmingham
research, until Sun 1 November
Herbert Museum & Art Gallery, Coventry
UNEARTH THE PALAEOVERSE: DIG INTO THE DAWN OF TIME An immersive Jurassic exhibitionhunt for fossils in virtual reality, board a Jurassic submarine, draw a dinosaur and watch it animate across the wall, and strike the perfect prehistoric pose in the dressing-up zone..., until Mon 31 August
Ikon Gallery, Birmingham
ANGELA DE LA CRUZ: UPRIGHT
Major exhibition of rarely seen works by the acclaimed contemporary artist, presented alongside a new commission developed in collaboration with Birmingham Royal Ballet, until Sun 6 September
Leamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum
UNRULY DESIRES: REFRAMING THE PAST Featuring Sunil Gupta’s New Pre-Raphaelites series and Charan Singh’s The Promise Of Beauty series, both artists explore and disrupt ideas relating to western art, queerness, the gaze, love and intimacy, until Sun 6 September
Midlands Arts Centre, Edgbaston, Birmingham
MADE AT MAC: CREATIVE FAMILY
SHOWCASE Mixed-media exhibition showcasing the work created by children, young people and families on MAC’s creative courses, until Sun 28 June
CLARE HEWITT: EVERYTHING IN THE FOREST IS THE FOREST New work, produced from a studio within a circle of twelve oak trees, which celebrates trees and their remarkable ability to nurture and communicate, until Mon 31 August
MAC CREATIVES Featuring work by 33 staff at MAC, this mixedmedia exhibition showcases the huge variety of talent and artistry to be found within the venue, until Sun 13 September
New Art Gallery, Walsall
STUART WHIPPS: THE FORMATION OF THE UNIVERSE The Birmingham-based artist’s work explores wide-ranging subjects through photography, films and installations, until Sun 5 July
TEN.8 AFTERIMAGE Photography exhibition exploring the legacy and enduring impact of Ten.8, a photography journal that
emerged from the Midlands’ radical cultural and political landscape, until Sun 13 September
Nuneaton Museum & Art Gallery
THE MONOCHROME EXPERIENCE
East Midlands Monochrome Photographic Group showcase the variety of imagery possible when photography is restricted to a monochrome palette, until Sat 27 June
RBSA Gallery, Birmingham
RBSA SUMMER SHOW 2026 The Society’s biggest open call of the year, attracting submissions from artists based all around the globe, Thurs 18 June - Sat 1 August
Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery
WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR The world’s most prestigious wildlife photography exhibition, now in its 61st year, until Sat 20 June
Wolverhampton Art Gallery
HANDLE WITH CARE Exhibition exploring the city’s art collection, from its beginnings in 1887 to the present day, until Sun 16 August
BETSY SMITH: MEMORY IN COLOUR Exhibition of work by the local painter, celebrated for bold, colourful semi-abstract land and seascapes, Sat 6 June - Mon 31 August
Worcester City Art Gallery & Museum
DAVID COX: THE ART OF WATERCOLOUR Celebrating Worcester’s collection of watercolours by one of the West Midlands’ greatest painters, Sat 6 June - Sun 1 November
Elsewhere:
BROKEN PROMISES Intimate body of work by Birmingham-based photographer Maria Reaney, exploring the intersection of the cost of living crisis through a series of personal narratives, until Sat 25 July, Library of Birmingham
BIRMINGHAM SCHOOL OF ART: BETWEEN THESE WALLS Featuring work by final-year students from BA Fine Art and BA Art & Design with creative technologies courses, Mon 1 - Sat 27 Jun, Birmingham School of Art
Gigs
THE FLEETWOOD MAC EXPERIENCE Mon 1
June, New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme
ANT & SEB Tues 2 June, Hare & Hounds, B’ham
ACM SOUNDS Tues 2
June, Actress & Bishop, Birmingham
FAKEMINK Tues 2 June, O2 Institute, B’ham
RAY LAMONTAGNE Tues 2
June, Symphony Hall, Birmingham
MACY GRAY Tues 2
June, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry
MARINA + MIKAYLA
GEIER Wed 3 June, O2 Academy, Birmingham
CRYPTIC SHIFT Wed 3
June, The Flapper, Birmingham
DBA! Wed 3 June, The Victoria, Birmingham
DEMI MARRINER BAND Wed 3 June, Temperance, Leamington Spa
ORLEANS HOT SHOT Wed 3 June, Boldmere
Sports and Social Club, Sutton Coldfield
TRUE FOXES Wed 3
June, West Malvern Social Club
DAVID FORD, SCARLET
RIVERA AND ROB STONER - 50 YEARS OF DESIRE
Thurs 4 June, Hare & Hounds, Birmingham
GILMORE & ROBERTS Thurs 4 June, Kitchen Garden, Birmingham
OMAR Thurs 4 June, The Jam House, B’ham
VIEIRA AND THE SILVERS + FUZZ COUNCIL Thurs 4
June, The Night Owl, Birmingham
GREY FLX Thurs 4 June, The Flapper, B’ham
MAGNETIC SKIES Thurs 4
June, The Victoria, Birmingham
DERMOT KENNEDY + JENSEN MCRAE Thurs 4
June, Utilita Arena Birmingham
CALLAGHAN Thurs 4
June, Temperance, Leamington Spa
KHARMA + FREE SPIRIT + MASSASAUGA + WHAT ABOUT ERIC? Thurs 4 June, hmv Empire, Coventry
BEVIS FROND + PETE
BASSMAN Thurs 4 June, Just Dropped In, Coventry
CARA DILLON Thurs 4 June, Regal, Tenbury Wells
LET ME ENTERTAIN YOUA TRIBUTE TO ROBBIE WILLIAMS Thurs 4 June, Palace Theatre, Redditch
FRANCK CARDUCCI Thurs 4 June, The Robin, Bilston
A HEAD FULL OF COLDPLAY Thurs 4 June, Wolverhampton Arts Centre
BOB SUMNER Thurs 4 June, The Artisan Tap, Stoke-on-Trent
NICK DEWHURST BAND FEAT. LYDIA RAE Thurs 4 June, The Hub at St Mary’s, Lichfield
DESPERADOS Thurs 4 June, The Buttermarket, Shrewsbury
THE PROCLAIMERS Thurs 4 June, Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Trent
TAKE THAT Thurs 4 - Sat 6 June, Coventry Building Society Arena
SAFEGUARD + THE LOSING SCORE Fri 5 June, The Sunflower Lounge, Birmingham
INVASION FESTIVAL Fri 5 - Sun 7 June, The Artisan Tap, Stoke-onTrent
JAMES OLIVER BAND Sat 6 June, Hare & Hounds, Birmingham
MASCA Sat 6 June, The Sunflower Lounge, Birmingham
SKASTUDS Sat 6 June, Actress & Bishop, Birmingham
LUKE BROHAM Sat 6 June, Actress & Bishop, Birmingham
VIVIENNE + CHEAPSIDE + STUCK ON VIOLET + LIGHT / DARK + THE JULIA SET Sat 6 June, The Dark Horse, B’ham
PORCELAIN MODS Sat 6
June, The Night Owl, Birmingham
JASSI SIDHU Sat 6 June, O2 Institute, B’ham
THE STREETS Sat 6 June, O2 Academy, Birmingham
REA-LOADED Sat 6 June, Jo Jo Jims, B’ham
SOUNDS OF SEATTLE Sat 6 June, Castle & Falcon, Birmingham
THE UNTITLED Sat 6 June, The Asylum, Birmingham
ROBINSWOOD FOLK BAND Sat 6 June, Library of Birmingham
THE HOUSE OF LOVE + MICHAEL HEAD & THE RED ELASTIC BAND + INDEPENDENT COUNTRY + JOHNSON & FINNEMORE + OLLIE COOK & THE HOGWASH Sat 6 June, Midlands Arts Centre (MAC), Birmingham
BOOGIE RIDE Sat 6 June, The Core Theatre, Solihull
RIOT RAVE Sat 6 June, The Assembly, Leamington Spa
JIMMY CARPENTER BAND Sat 6 June, Temperance, Leamington Spa
FRANKIE LEE AND THE CASUALS Sat 6 June, Temperance, Leamington Spa
THE QUAD ROX Sat 6 June, The Rhodehouse, Sutton Coldfield
SATSANGI + RESURRECTION MEN + STRIP SEARCH TRAMP + THE CULT OF FREE LOVE Sat 6 June, The Tin At The Coal Vaults, Coventry
9 CARAT PURPLE Sat 6 June, Arches Venue, Coventry
SHOWADDYWADDY Sat 6 June, Bedworth Civic Hall
DARK GRIN Sat 6 June, Queens Hall, Nuneaton FRACXURA + ELECTRIC BLACK + WÄLKER Sat 6 June, Queens Hall, Nuneaton
THE CLASS OF ‘55 Sat 6 June, Palace Theatre, Redditch
GROUND ZERO Sat 6
June, The Valkyrie Bar, Evesham
THE UK ROCK SHOW Sat 6 June, Walsall Arena & Arts Centre
TOO MUCH TOO YOUNGTHE MUSIC OF 2TONE & BEYOND Sat 6 June, Dudley Town Hall
ELECTROMANTICS Sat 6 June, The River Rooms, Stourbridge
MAETLIVE Sat 6 June, The Robin, Bilston
THE CIRCLES Sat 6 June, Katie Fitzgerald’s, Stourbridge
PETE ROTH TRIO FEAT.
BILL BRUFORD Sat 6 June, Wolverhampton Arts Centre
REWIND: THE JOURNEY OF SOUL, R&B AND UK
GARAGE Sat 6 June, Wulfrun at The Halls Wolverhampton
HISSY FIST + THE CAROLINE BOMB + SOAPER + HEY ALAMO + WAX FUTURES Sat 6 June, Dive, Wolverhampton
TALON Sat 6 June, Tamworth Assembly Rooms
THE SMITHS LTD Sat 6 June, The Station, Cannock
THE GAZ HUGHES TRIO Sat 6 June, The Hub at St Mary’s, Lichfield
THE JAZZ FUNK MACHINE Sat 6 June, The Hub at St Mary’s, Lichfield
THE JOHN EVANS JAZZ
The Streets - O2 Academy, Birmingham
EXPERIENCE FT. SUZANNE FONSECA Sat 6 June, Minster Hall, Lichfield
ANTONIO FORCIONE TRIO Sat 6 June, The Hub at St Mary’s, Lichfield
AIN’T NO DISCO Sat 6 June, The Feathers Inn, Lichfield
LIVE/WIRE: THE AC/DC SHOW Sat 6 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
SPECIAL KINDA MADNESS Sat 6 June, The Buttermarket, Shrewsbury
MARK MORRISS Sun 7 June, Kitchen Garden, Birmingham
THE GARRY ALLCOCK TRIO Sun 7 June, Tower of Song, Birmingham PEACE OF MIND + OVERPOWER + EXCIDE + HOLLOW SUNS Sun 7 June, The Flapper, Birmingham
JOE WEBB TRIO Sun 7 June, Jennifer Blackwell Performance Space, Symphony Hall, Birmingham
EMILY PORTMAN Sun 7 June, Temperance, Leamington Spa
BOB SUMNER + THE DRONE RANGERS + PAUL GIBSON Sun 7 June, The Tin At The Coal Vaults, Coventry
GEORGE SANSOME AND SOPHIE CRAWFORD Sun 7 June, The Fleece Inn, Bretforton, Nr Evesham
XL Sun 7 June, Queens Hall, Nuneaton
BEAUTIFUL TRAUMA : THE ULTIMATE LIVE P!NK EXPERIENCE Sun 7 June, Swan Theatre, Worcester
D’ARTAGNAN Sun 7 June, The Red Lion, Evesham
MOSTLY AUTUMN Sun 7 June, The Robin, Bilston
BEAT - PERFORMING THE MUSIC OF 80S KING CRIMSON Sun 7 June, Civic at The Halls Wolverhampton
WICKED SMILE + RATTLESNAKES Sun 7 June, Eleven, Stoke-onTrent
THE WEST COAST EAGLES Sun 7 June, The Station, Cannock
JAMES OLIVER BAND Sun 7 June, The Hub at St Mary’s, Lichfield THE TOM MORGAN QUARTET FT. SIR LOUIS Sun 7 June, The Hub at St Mary’s, Lichfield
SOPHIE GILBERT + ARRAN SHANGHAVI + RJ GILBERT Sun 7 June, Minster Hall, Lichfield
JAMES TAYLOR QUARTET Sun 7 June, The Hub at St Mary’s, Lichfield THE BLUES ROCK ROADSHOW - FT REMI HARRIS & DAVE SMALL Sun 7 June, The Buttermarket, Shrewsbury
thelist
Classical Music
LUNCHTIME ORGAN CONCERT WITH THOMAS TROTTER: BELLS AND WHISTLES Programme includes works by JS Bach, Byrd, Mills & more..., Mon 1 June, Birmingham Town Hall
LUKE FITZGERALD ORGAN RECITAL Mon 1 June, Coventry Cathedral
BELLE WONG PIANO CONCERT Tues 2 June, St Alkmund’s Church, Shrewsbury
CBSO: STRAVINSKY’S RITE OF SPRING Featuring Ilan Volkov (conductor). Programme also includes works by Frescobaldi, Purcell, Debussy & more..., Wed 3 June, Symphony Hall, Birmingham
THE JARUALDA QUARTET Featuring David Joyce & Alex Postlethwaite (violins), Jane Park (viola) & Ruth Henley (cello). Programme includes works by Haydn, Szymon & Debussy, Thurs 4 June, The Gateway, Shrewsbury
CBSO CENTRE STAGE: DVOŘÁK’S
AMERICAN QUARTET Featuring Colette Overdijk & Georgia Hannant (violins), Jessica Tickle (viola) & Arthur Boutillier (cello). Programme also includes works by J Adams & J Montgomery, Fri 5 June, CBSO Centre, Birmingham
SPACE STATION EARTH A concert by composer Ilan Eshkeri - performed live on synthesisers with orchestra and choir - exploring how seeing Earth from space reshapes human perspective, Fri 5 June, Birmingham Town Hall
RBC OUT AND ABOUT: ANDREY FJELDSTAD (SAXOPHONE) & BIANCA
VANCEA (PIANO) Fri 5 June, The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham EX CATHEDRA: THE GRAND TOURBURNEY 300 Featuring Jeffrey Skidmore (conductor). Inspired by the time and travels of Shrewsburyborn Dr Charles Burney, the programme includes works by Mozart, Haydn and Allegri, Fri 5 June, St Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury
PAUL CARR ORGAN RECITAL Programme includes works by Handel, JS Bach, Meyerbeer & more..., Fri 5 June, Friends Meeting House, Bournville, Birmingham
MARK SWINTON ORGAN RECITAL Fri 5 June, St Mary’s Church, Warwick
NICHOLAS FREESTONE ORGAN RECITAL Fri 5 June, St Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury
CITY OF BIRMINGHAM CHOIR: A BLAZE OF GLORY Featuring Adrian Lucas (conductor) & Andrew Lumsden (organ). Programme includes works by Elgar, Severas, Jongen & more..., Sat 6 June, Tewkesbury Abbey
JED HUGHES ORGAN RECITAL Programme includes works by Parry, Distler, Elgar & more..., Sat 6 June, St
Laurence’s Church, Ludlow, South Shropshire
STAFFORD SINFONIA: SUMMERTIME
CLASSICS Featuring Jack LovellHuckle (musical director) & Alan Thomas (trumpet). Programme includes works by Mozart, Haydn & Beethoven, Sat 6 June, Rising Brook Community Church, Stafford
CBSO FAMILY CONCERT: DANCE ACROSS
THE AMERICAS Featuring Karen Ní Bhroin (conductor) & Lucy Hollins (presenter). Programme includes works by Piazzola, Copland, Sondheim & more..., Sun 7 June, Symphony Hall, Birmingham
ELLA CORDON VIEITO PIANO RECITAL Sun 7 June, Wylde Green United Reform Church, Birmingham
ELGAR INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF BRASS Featuring Frank Renton (conductor) & David Childs (brass), Sun 7 June, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire
ALLY DUNAVANT (SOPRANO) & JONTY
WATT (PIANO) Programme includes works by Puccini, Mozart & more..., Sun 7 June, St Alkmund’s Church, Shrewsbury
Comedy
STUART GOLDSMITH, ANDREW BIRD, ED
ACZEL & AIMEE BETH PETTIT Mon 1 June, The Royal Pug, Leamington Spa
DALISO CHAPONDA Tues 2 June, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry
ERIC RUSHTON & TOM TOWELLING Thurs 4 June, The Glee Club, Birmingham
SIMON MUNNERY Thurs 4 June, Cherry Reds, Birmingham
HARRIET DYER, MIKE CARTER, ROGER
SWIFT & DAVE TWENTYMAN Thurs 4
June, Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek, Staffs
DEREK MITCHELL Fri 5 June, Midlands Arts Centre (MAC), Birmingham
SIMON BRODKIN Fri 5 June, Tamworth
Assembly Rooms
JOE KENT-WALTERS (AKA FRANKIE
MONROE), JONATHAN ELSTON, MATT
RICHARDSON, MARK SILCOX Fri 5 - Sat 6 June, The Glee Club, Birmingham
PAUL F TAYLOR, BENNY SHAKES, PAUL
PIRIE & DAVID ALFIE WARD Sat 6 June, Rosies Nightclub, Birmingham
MANFORD’S COMEDY CLUB Sat 6 June, Lichfield Garrick
SHAPPI KHORSANDI, JOSH PUGH & COMICS TBC Sat 6 June, The Bridge House Theatre, Warwick
AFRICA VS THE CARIBBEAN COMEDY SHOWDOWN Sun 7 June, The Glee Club, Birmingham
TARANG HARDIKAR Sun 7 June, The Old Rep Theatre, Birmingham
JONNY COLE Sun 7 June, Brierley Hill Civic, Dudley
AL MURRAY Sun 7 June, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre
ROSIE JONES, FELICITY WARD, JOSH
JONES & FAB GOUALIN Sun 7 June, The Wulfrun at The Halls Wolverhampton
Theatre
AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS The Jules Verne classic gets the New Vic treatment as eight actors take on 109 characters, until Sat 20 June, The New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-underLyme
THE TEMPEST Kenneth Branagh stars as Prospero in Shakespeare’s final play, until Sat 20 June, Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratfordupon-Avon
WAITRESS Carrie Hope Fletcher, Les Dennis, Sandra Marvin and Evelyn Hoskins star in a warm-hearted tale of love and friendship, Mon 1 - Sat 6 June, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre
ALLEGRA Maureen Lipman stars in a new comedy by Peter Quilter, Mon 1Sat 6 June, Malvern Theatres
MEET FRED Hijinx Theatre’s critically acclaimed production follows Fred, a cloth puppet trying to live an ordinary life, get a job, find love and be part of society, Tues 2 - Wed 3 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
ANNIE La Voix stars as Miss Hannigan in a revival of the much-loved rags-toriches story, Tues 2 - Sat 6 June, The Alexandra, Birmingham
SHREK THE MUSICAL Amateur version presented by Bournville Musical
A SIMPLY BEASTLY MURDER Featuring voice work from Alistair McGowan, Rachel E Thorn’s British film noir is ‘full of gangsters, intrigue, and lashings of tinned pineapple’, Thurs 4 June, The Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham
THE INVISIBLE MAN A ‘fast-paced and riotous’ stage adaptation of HG Wells’ classic story, Thurs 4 June, The Henrican, Evesham
PRIDE & PREJUDICE... BUT FUNNY Take a romp through all the Bennets, Bingleys, bachelors and balls in a ‘hilarious’ retelling of Jane Austen’s most-loved story, Thurs 4 June, Swan Theatre, Worcester
OUR PUBLIC HOUSE Barney Norris’ ‘funny and big-hearted’ show about change - set in a pub where anything can happen..., Thurs 4 - Sat 6 June, The Belgrade Theatre, Coventry FOOTLOOSE Amateur version presented by Five Star Theatre, Thurs 4 - Sat 6 June, The Benn Hall, Rugby WE WILL ROCK YOU Coventry Musical Theatre Society present an amateur version of Ben Elton’s smash-hit musical, Thurs 4 - Sun 7 June, The Belgrade Theatre, Coventry TOM’S MIDNIGHT GARDEN Amateur version of Philippa Pearce’s beloved classic, Thurs 4 - Sat 7 June, Playbox Theatre, The Dream Factory, Warwick THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING OSCAR The rise and fall, glory and devastation of the literary icon is brought to life through his own words in a one-man show performed by Alistair Whatley, Fri 5 June, Lichfield Garrick
WHISKY TANGO FOXTROT Jack Bryan’s ‘hilarious, moving and gritty’ tales of policing from the late 1970s onwards, Fri 5 June, Ludlow Assembly Rooms, South Shropshire
PLAYING BURTON A soulful exploration of fame, ambition and identity, told from the perspective of a megastar looking back on a life of extremes, Fri 5 June, Priory Theatre, Kenilworth
MEET FRED Hijinx Theatre’s critically acclaimed production follows Fred, a cloth puppet trying to live an ordinary life, get a job, find love and be part of
Pride & Prejudice... But Funny - Swan Theatre, Worcester
society, Fri 5 June, Lichfield Garrick
THE LADY IN THE VAN Amateur version of Alan Bennett’s witty exploration of the relationship between a playwright and a homeless woman who lives in a van on his drive, Fri 5 - Sat 13 June, The Bear Pitt Theatre, Stratford-uponAvon
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Amateur version presented by Breakout Performing Arts, Sat 6 June, The Old Rep, Birmingham
ERIC & ERN Nostalgic show paying homage to two of comedy’s finest. Expect renditions of famous sketches and routines, as well as a musical guest..., Sat 6 June, Lichfield Garrick
BOILER ROOM SIX: A TITANIC STORY The true survival story of stoker Frederick Barrett and his devastating account of the last few hours of the Titanic, Sat 6 June, Ludlow Assembly Rooms, South Shropshire
Kids Theatre
BIN RAT A ‘fun, feral family comedy’ using live music, physical comedy, puppetry and visual storytelling to contemplate ‘the important issues of our times’, Fri 5 June, Leintwardine Community Centre, Shropshire
THE DINOSAUR THAT POOPED: A ROCK SHOW New stage show for younger audiences, based on Tom Fletcher & Dougie Poynter’s bestselling children’s books, Sat 6 June, Swan Theatre, Worcester
BOXED IN Daryl & Co and Half Moon present an adventure-packed family show featuring ‘silly surprises, laughout-loud moments and chaos’, Sun 7 June, Midlands Arts Centre (MAC), Birmingham
THE CAT IN THE HAT A ‘first theatre experience’ based on Dr Seuss’ bestselling book, Sat 6 & Sun 7 June, Stourbridge Town Hall
Dance
EMERGENCE 2026: TRIPLE BILL
Featuring Jason Mabana’s Our Guests and Faye Stoeser’s Rapture alongside Euphoria from Joss Arnott & Lisa Marie Robinson, Thurs 4 June, Arena Theatre, Wolverhampton
Light Entertainment
THE GOLDEN OLDIES A heartwarming celebration of the golden age of musical theatre, performed by a West End cast, Tues 2 June, The Albany Theatre, Coventry
DERREN BROWN: ONLY HUMAN LIVE Brand-new show from the master of mind control and psychological
illusion, Tues 2 - Sat 13 June, Birmingham Hippodrome
AN EVENING WITH ALISON JACKSON: FAKING FAMOUS An award-winning, immersive and ever-changing performance that fakes fame, live on stage, Wed 3 June, Lichfield Garrick
THE ENCHANTED FOREST Evening of performances from professional poledance artists, Thurs 4 June, The Crescent Theatre, Birmingham
INDIANA JONES AND THE RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK LIVE IN CONCERT
Experience John Williams’ Grammy Award-winning score performed live to the first film of the iconic adventure franchise, Thurs 4 June, Symphony Hall, Birmingham
ANYONE FOR TENNIS? Join comedian Pauline Eyre for an evening of ‘smashing stories, ace anecdotes and a 40-love letter to the game’, Thurs 4 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
THE MUSIC OF JAMES BOND Featuring the Great British Film Orchestra performing Diamonds Are Forever, Goldfinger, Skyfall, Licence To Kill and many more..., Fri 5 June, Coventry Cathedral
TWIST & SHOUT Fun-packed musical journey through the Swinging 60s, Fri 5 June, Swan Theatre, Worcester SHOWSTOPPER! THE IMPROVISED
MUSICAL West End favourite where a brand-new musical comedy is created from scratch each night, Fri 5 June, Palace Theatre, Redditch
MEAT LOAF BY CANDLELIGHT Fri 5 June, Worcester Cathedral
RABBITS OUT OF THE HAT Vaudevillian duo Norvil & Josephine present ‘a magical extravaganza for all ages’, Fri 5 June, Rother Street Arts, Stratfordupon-Avon
BOTTOMS UP: BURLESQUE & CABARET
Expect ‘sultry striptease, witty wisecracks and saucy songs’, Sat 6 June, The Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham
TOO MUCH TOO YOUNG - THE MUSIC OF 2TONE & BEYOND Smash-hit show taking audiences on a musical journey from the birth of Ska in Jamaica through to its British revival in the late 1970s, Sat 6 June, Dudley
Town Hall
BAFTA GAMES IN CONCERT Featuring Adrian Ronda Sampayo (conductor), BBC Philharmonic Orchestra &
The Tempest - Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon
nominated and award-winning music from 20 years of the BAFTA Games Awards, Sat 6 Jun, Symphony Hall, Birmingham
BOOGIE RIDE Join the Boogaloo Babes for a musical journey through the decades, Sat 6 June, The Core Theatre, Solihull
MAGIC OF THE MUSICALS Featuring the 10-piece CN Live Orchestra and a programme of West End musical hits - including The Phantom Of The Opera, Mary Poppins, Jesus Christ Superstar, Wicked, Mamma Mia! and more, Sat 6 June, Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Spa
THE MUSIC OF FLEETWOOD MAC BY CANDLELIGHT Sat 6 June, Worcester Cathedral
KERRY KATONA’S SUPER TROUPERS
Kerry Katona stars in ‘the ultimate non-stop party tribute to Mamma Mia! The Musical’, Sat 6 June, The Albany Theatre, Coventry
LIPSTICK ON YOUR COLLAR Nostalgic evening featuring back-to-back hits from the 1950s and 60s, Sun 7 June, Lichfield Garrick
Talks & Spoken Word
PROFESSOR KATE WILLIAMS: THE TRUTH ABOUT ROYAL WOMEN From Cleopatra to Grace Kelly, Kate Williams’ history of royal women shatters the myths which have been built around them and explores a life behind closed doors..., Mon 1 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
BRIAN BILSTON: HOW TO LAY AN EGG WITH A HORSE INSIDE An alternative guide to writing and enjoying poetry, Wed 3 June, Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek, Staffs
PROFESSOR KATE WILLIAMS: THE TRUTH ABOUT ROYAL WOMEN From Cleopatra to Grace Kelly, Kate Williams’ history of royal women shatters the myths which have been built around them
doors..., Wed 3 June, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry
MURDER: STAGED Serial killer & psychopathy expert Cheish Merryweather introduces a true-crime talk that takes a deep-dive into the embedded lies at crime scenes, Thurs 4 June, Artrix, Bromsgrove THE MAKINGS OF A MURDERER: THE UNDERCOVER DETECTIVE Join Peter Bleksley - a founding member of Scotland Yard’s undercover unit - as he lifts the lid on the most hidden aspects of murder investigations, Fri 5 June, Walsall Arena & Arts Centre
Events
QUILTER CHEVIOT BRITISH OPEN SQUASH 2026 One of the most prestigious and historic tournaments in professional squash, until Sun 7 June, The Rep, Birmingham
THE GREAT TURTLE ODYSSEY Find out about the life of a sea turtle, until Thurs 11 June, National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
UNEARTH THE PALAEOVERSE: DIG INTO THE DAWN OF TIME An immersive jurassic exhibition, until Mon 31 Aug, Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, Coventry
GLADIATORS EXPERIENCE Put your speed, strength and skills to the ultimate test, until Mon 31 Aug, NEC, Birmingham
BIRDSONG IDENTIFICATION WORKSHOP Learn how to identify different common birds, from blackbirds to blackcaps, Thurs 4 June, Compton Verney, Warwickshire
THREE COUNTIES CHAMPIONSHIP DOG SHOW Held across four days, with over 6,500 dogs competing for the ultimate title of Best in Show, Thurs 4 - Sun 7 June, Three Counties Showground, Malvern
BRUM RADICALS Networking event for Birmingham’s creative community, Fri 5 June, Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
A WALK IN THE PARK: SUMMER STROLL
Join landscape manager Fiona Tansey for a walk through the meadows, discovering the native flora and fauna, Fri 5 June, Compton Verney, Warwickshire
THE FESTIVAL OF CHANGE Programme of conservation-focused activities, Fri 5 - Sat 6 June, Dudley Zoo
HERITAGE TOURS AT THE EXCHANGE
Discover the rich history and fascinating stories behind the walls of The Exchange, Sat 6 June, University of Birmingham
MOTOWN & SOUL DAY PARTY Headlined by Shropshire soul & Motown DJ Clive Jones, Sat 6 June, The Buttermarket, Shrewsbury
BARTON MARINA DINING CLUB A feast of award-winning street food and live entertainment, Sat 6 June, Barton Marina, Burton-on-Trent
WOLVERHAMPTON PRIDE The community celebration returns at a brand-new venue, Sat 6 June, West Park, Wolverhampton
STUART CRYSTAL SITE WALKING TOUR
Explore the former site of the Stuart Crystal factory, and learn about its significance within the local glass industry, Sat 6 June, Stourbridge
Glass Museum
MOTHERS’ UNION FAMILY FUN DAY
Mother’s Union celebrate their 150th anniversary with a free family fun day, Sat 6 June, Coventry Cathedral
LIGHT AND COLOUR: STAINED GLASSINSPIRED WORKSHOP WITH CHRISTOPHER SAMUEL A 10-minute tour followed by a hands-on stained glass-inspired workshop, Sat 6 June, Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
PAINT & PROSECCO Spend a relaxing afternoon creating your own artwork whilst sipping prosecco, Sat 6 June, Sarehole Mill, Birmingham
FAMILY THEATRE TOUR Step behind the scenes of the 125-year-old theatre and find out what it takes to put on a show, Sat 6 June, The Alexandra, Birmingham
STEAMING DOWN THE VALLEY A scenic 5km and 10km trail race through the heart of the Severn Valley, Sat 6 June, Severn Valley Railway, nr Kidderminster
TAMWORTH PRIDE Celebrating the LGBTQ+ community, Sat 6 June, Tamworth Castle Grounds
KENILWORTH SHOW Annual celebration of agriculture, rural life and community, Sat 6 June, NAEC
Monday 1 - Sunday 7 June
Stoneleigh, Kenilworth
SHREWSBURY FLEA AND ANTIQUES FAIR With a mixture of antiques and collectables, Sat 6 June, West Mid Showground, Shrewsbury GOODS TRAIN EXPERIENCE Take a trip along the railway in a GWR ‘Toad’ brake van, BR 993898 ‘Shark’ or SR 55577 ‘Pillbox’, Sat 6 June, Severn Valley Railway, nr Kidderminster RIVER FESTIVAL COVENTRY Weekend of celebration centred around Coventry’s hidden River Sherbourne, Sat 6 - Sun 7 June, FarGo Village, Coventry
SUMMER SPECTACLE OF STEAM See locomotives on two different gauges of railway, explore fierce gradients, tight corners and more, Sat 6 - Sun 7 June, Statfold Country Park, Tamworth
JURASSIC JUNE Discover the fascinating world of dinosaurs, Sat 6Sun 7 June, West Midlands Safari Park, Bewdley, Nr Kidderminster BELLE VUE ARTS FESTIVAL 2026 Enjoy fantasy-themed events, workshops, open gardens and family fun, Sat 6Sun 21 June, Shrewsbury, Shropshire
BANBURY RUN Celebrate 76 years of
the iconic Banbury Run, as the museum plays host to over 500 veteran and vintage motorbikes for their ride out to Banbury and back, Sun 7 June, British Motor Museum, Gaydon
COLOUR BOX: PANDA! GO PANDA! Dropin workshop followed by a relaxed screening, Sun 7 June, Midlands Arts Centre (MAC), Birmingham
NARROW GAUGE GALA Three locomotives will be out in service across the 2ft gauge railway, Sun 7 June, Telford Steam Railway
ROVER CARS GALORE Featuring vehicles from across the years, Sun 7 June, Telford Steam Railway
WALK FOR A CURE WORCESTERSHIRE Raising money for dementia research, Sun 7 June, Arrow Valley Country Park, Redditch
PRIMROSE MEMORY WALK Raising vital funds for Primrose Hospice & Family Support Centre, Sun 7 June, Hanbury Hall, Worcester
STAFFORDSHIRE MOTORSPORT SHOW
For car enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies alike, Sun 7 June, Uttoxeter Racecourse
thelist
Gigs
STEVE TILSTON Mon 8
June, Kitchen Garden, Birmingham
BLUE Mon 8 June, O2 Institute, Birmingham
KARL LOXLEY Mon 8
June, The Buttermarket, Shrewsbury
ALDOUS HARDING Tues 9
June, Birmingham Town Hall
FANNA-FI-ALLAH Tues 9
June, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry
ALYSSA BONAGURA + JACKIE LEE Wed 10
June, Hare & Hounds, Birmingham
DAVE BRISTOW QUINTET Wed 10 June, The Jam House, Birmingham
AUSTEL + FERN + LUCA
SIMIAN Wed 10 June, The Sunflower Lounge, Birmingham
COUNTING CROWS + WILL VARLEY Wed 10
June, O2 Academy, Birmingham
JASON ISBELL AND THE 400 UNIT Wed 10 June, Symphony Hall, B’ham
LAURA LOOTENS Wed 10
June, Old Rep, B’ham
CHARLIE DORE Wed 10
June, The Glee Club, Birmingham
THE SWAPS + FERBRACHE AND FRY Wed 10 June, Temperance, Leamington Spa
SARAH SPENCER’S TRANSATLANTIC BAND Wed 10 June, Boldmere Sports and Social Club, Sutton Coldfield
ALBERT LEE Wed 10
June, hmv Empire, Coventry
NICK COSTLEY-WHITE
TRIO Wed 10 June, Rother Street Arts, Stratford-upon-Avon
DECEIVERS Wed 10
June, Queens Hall, Nuneaton
TOM WATERS BAND FEAT.
GEOFF ACHISON Wed 10
June, The Robin, Bilston
MONEY FOR NOTHINGDIRE STRAITS TRIBUTE
Wed 10 June, Lichfield Garrick
MARGARITA WITCH CULT
+ THE BIG HELL + WULFGANG Thurs 11
June, Hare & Hounds, Birmingham
SWEETPOOL + DEVIANT
AMPS Thurs 11 June, Hare & Hounds, B’ham
RORY MCLEOD Thurs 11
June, Kitchen Garden, Birmingham
LOOSE ENDS Thurs 11
June, The Jam House, Birmingham
THE SLOW DEATH Thurs 11 June, The Dark Horse, Birmingham
80S CLASSICAL: WITH NIK KERSHAW, JOHNNY HATES JAZZ & JAKI
GRAHAM Thurs 11 June, Symphony Hall, B’ham
CHRIS QUINN Thurs 11
June, Catshill Social Club, Bromsgrove
THE WORLD ACCORDING TO MICHAEL HURLEY
Thurs 11 June, Temperance, Leamington Spa
NIGHT OF ROCK #1 Thurs 11 June, The Tin At The Coal Vaults, Coventry
SLUMP + TELLEMAHOOKAH + SUPERWAVE Thurs 11
June, hmv Empire, Coventry
MARK CHADWICK + MATTS HIS NAME Thurs 11 June, Queens Hall, Nuneaton
V6 ORGAN TRIO Thurs 11
June, Marrs Bar, Worcester
LEGEND - THE MUSIC OF BOB MARLEY Thurs 11
June, Palace Theatre, Redditch
THE HISTORY OF SOUL Thurs 11 June, Brierley Hill Civic, Dudley THE FALLEN WOMEN Thurs 11 June, The Artisan Tap, Stoke-onTrent
CLASSIC BLUES SHOW Thurs 11 June, Brewhouse Arts Centre, Burton upon Trent
JOE BROUGHTON’S CONSERVATOIRE FOLK
ENSEMBLE Thurs 11
June, Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek, Staffs
JOE CARNALL JNRCELEBRATING 20 YRS OF MILBURN’S WELL WELL WELL Fri 12 June, Hare & Hounds, Birmingham
ATTICUS CHIMPS + NUNS OF THE TUNDRA + LOAB
Fri 12 June, The Sunflower Lounge, Birmingham
DINO BAPTISTE Fri 12
June, Actress & Bishop, Birmingham
THE REMI HARRIS BLUES
ROCK ROADSHOW Fri 12
June, Jo Jo Jims, Birmingham
MATT RIDLEY Fri 12
June, 1000 Trades, Birmingham
DEFINITE PHYSICAL
CHANGE Fri 12 June, The Flapper, B’ham
BATTLE OF THE BANDS Fri 12 June, The Victoria, Birmingham
ANDERSEN LUFT
SOMMER Fri 12 June, Midlands Arts Centre (MAC), Birmingham
BONFIRE RADICALS Fri 12
June, Temperance, Leamington Spa
DAVE LARGIE Fri 12 June, The Rhodehouse, Sutton Coldfield
RED LEMONS Fri 12 - Sat 13 June, The Jam House, Birmingham
EDDI READER & JOHN DOUGLAS Fri 12 - Sat 13 June, The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock, South Shropshire
CAT DAVIS TRIO Sat 13 June, Hare & Hounds, Birmingham
SYNTH Sat 13 June, Hare & Hounds, Birmingham
THE LOST Sat 13 June, The Dark Horse, B’ham FROM THE JAM Sat 13 June, O2 Institute, Birmingham
LOLA YOUNG Sat 13 June, O2 Academy, Birmingham
KILLERSTREAM Sat 13 June, Jo Jo Jims, Birmingham
MYLES BULLEN & RAIN
MCMEY Sat 13 June, Tower of Song, B’ham
SAME Sat 13 June, Dead Wax, B’ham
ELVIS COSTELLO & THE IMPOSTERS WITH CHARLIE SEXTON Sat 13
June, Symphony Hall, Birmingham
FANNA-FI-ALLAH Sat 13
June, Birmingham
Town Hall
THE SWAMP STOMP STRING BAND Sat 13
June, Temperance, Leamington Spa
RALPH MCTELL Sat 13
June, The Bridge House Theatre, Warwick
ICONIC 80S V 90S Sat 13
June, The Rhodehouse, Sutton Coldfield
UZAK Sat 13 June, The Tin At The Coal Vaults, Coventry
THE SHAKIN’ STEVENS STORY Sat 13 June, The Albany Theatre, Coventry
JOOLS HOLLAND AND HIS RHYTHM & BLUES
ORCHESTRA Sat 13
June, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry
RADHIKA + STONE
ANTHEM Sat 13 June, Just Dropped In, Coventry
STRANGERS Sat 13
June, Queens Hall, Nuneaton
ULTIMATE RNB Sat 13
June, Queens Hall, Nuneaton
THANK ABBA FOR THE MUSIC Sat 13 June, The Benn Hall, Rugby
THESE SMITHS Sat 13 June, Marrs Bar, Worcester
ATLANTIC CROSSING Sat 13 June, Huntingdon Hall, Worcester
THE BON JOVI EXPERIENCE Sat 13
June, Palace Theatre, Redditch
NORTHERN SOUL - LIVE! Sat 13 June, Kidderminster Town Hall
MADDY PRIOR Sat 13 June, Malvern Cube
SMOOTH ROCK SHOW Sat 13 June, Dudley Town Hall
BORN IN THE 80S VS BORN IN THE 90S Sat 13
June, The River Rooms, Stourbridge
ZIGGY POP Sat 13 June, The Robin, Bilston
STARVING RASCALS Sat 13 June, Katie Fitzgerald’s, Stourbridge
STEREOTONICS Sat 13
June, Eleven, Stoke-on-Trent
TOM ROBINSON Sat 13
June, The Rigger, Newcastle-Under-Lyme
TAYLOR SWIFT TRIBUTE Sat 13 June, Top Of The World, Stafford THE WESTLIFE EXPERIENCE Sat 13 June, Tamworth Assembly Rooms
TOTALLY TINA Sat 13 June, Lichfield Garrick
BEN PORTSMOUTH - THIS IS ELVIS Sat 13 June, Lichfield Cathedral
LIVE ‘N’ LET ROCK Sat 13 June, The Feathers Inn, Lichfield
GAZ HUGHES QUARTET Sat 13 June, The Hive, Shrewsbury
BLUE SKY MOON Sat 13 June, Wem Town Hall, North Shropshire
TALON Sat 13 - Sun 14 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
CHRIS HELME Sun 14 June, Hare & Hounds, Birmingham
GREAT STONE REVIVAL Sun 14 June, Actress & Bishop, Birmingham
EASY 3 Sun 14 June, Temperance, Leamington Spa
KAZ HAWKINS Sun 14 June, Temperance, Leamington Spa
PINK BREATH OF HEAVEN + PUNCHLOVE Sun 14 June, The Tin At The Coal Vaults, Coventry
GOBLIN BAND Sun 14 June, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry SOS ROCK AND BLUES Sun 14 June, Queens Hall, Nuneaton
BEAUTIFUL CRAZY - THE LUKE COMBS COLLECTION Sun 14 June, Swan Theatre, Worcester
CLARE PORTMAN Sun 14 June, The Red Lion, Evesham
THE BOOTLEG SHADOWS Sun 14 June, Wolverhampton Arts Centre
KILLER QUEEN Sun 14 June, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre
MOMENTS OF PLEASURE Sun 14 June, Eleven, Stoke-on-Trent
BACK TO THE 80S Sun 14 June, The Hub at St Mary’s, Lichfield
GUTTERSNIPE Sun 14 June, Albert’s Shed, Shrewsbury
Classical Music
ALASTAIR STONE ORGAN RECITAL Mon 8
June, Coventry Cathedral
RBC PIANO QUINTET Featuring Yuwen Fan & Tehya Dawson (violins), Sheng Zhang (viola), Ian Zhao Hongze (cello), Joachim Lim (piano). Programme comprises Dvořák’s Piano Quintet in A major, Tues 9 June, Holy Trinity Church, Leamington Spa
ADELE BRACEGIRDLE (FLUTE) & BEN ATTFIELD (PIANO) Tues 9 June, St Alkmund’s Church, Shrewsbury
CBSO: AN EVENING WITH BARITONE DAVÓNE TINES Featuring Christian Reif (conductor). Programme includes works by Haydn, C Simon & Caroline Shaw/Davóne Tines, Wed 10 June, Birmingham Town Hall
RBC OUT AND ABOUT: NIKIFOROS SGOURADITIS (TENOR) & TYLER DAVIES (PIANO) Wed 10 June, Holy Trinity Church, Stratford-upon-Avon ORCHESTRA OF THE SWAN: BURNING SWAN A new music project composed by RBC student composers. David Le Page (violin) & David Gordon (piano) feature, Wed 10 June, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire
ENGLISH HAYDN FESTIVAL Featuring lunchtime & evening ‘period instrument’ concerts. Programmes include works by Haydn, Beethoven, Mozart & more..., Wed 10 - Sat 13 June, St Mary’s Church, Bridgnorth, South Shropshire
CBSO LIVE AT THE CENTRE: AN EVENING WITH NATUREBOY Featuring Davóne Tines (singer) & John Bitoy (piano). Programme includes works by Purcell, Nat King Cole, Nina Simone & more..., Thurs 11 June, CBSO Centre, Birmingham
SIMONE DAMIANI PIANO CONCERT Thurs 11 June, St Paul’s Church, B’ham LUNCHTIME CONCERT: FOUR HANDS Featuring Lynn Arnold & Charles Matthews (piano duet), Thurs 11 June, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry
MIDLAND SINFONIA 30TH ANNIVERSARY FESTIVAL: THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC Programme includes popular works by Bach, Elgar, ABBA & more..., Thurs 11 June, Alvechurch Village Hall, Bromsgrove
NIGEL KENNEDY: VIRTUOSO Featuring Alec Dankworth (double bass) & Peter Adams (cello). A unique evening of classical, jazz, and contemporary repertoire, Thurs 11 June, Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Trent
DAVID T SHINGLER & GEORGE MOLONEY ORGAN RECITAL Fri 12 June, St Philip’s Cathedral, Birmingham
MIDLAND SINFONIA 30TH ANNIVERSARY FESTIVAL: FIREWORKS FINALE Programme includes works by Bach, Copland, Handel & more..., Fri 12
June, St Laurence Church, Alvechurch, Bromsgrove
TIMARA EASTER ORGAN RECITAL Fri 12
June, St Mary’s Church, Warwick
MIDLAND SINFONIA 30TH ANNIVERSARY FESTIVAL: TMS IN THE COMMUNITY Two concerts with collaborations between the Midland Sinfonia and community groups, Sat 13 June, Rowney Green Village Hall, Bromsgrove
WARWICKSHIRE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Featuring Jonathan Barritt (soloist) & Roger Coull (conductor). Programme includes works by Vaughan Williams, Holst, Bruch & Rachmaninov, Sat 13
June, All Saints Church, Leamington Spa
WORCESTER PHILHARMONIC
ORCHESTRA Featuring Dan Watson (conductor), Graham Longfils (leader) & George Blakesley (clarinet). Programme includes works by Mendelssohn, Mozart & Weber, Sat 13 June, Pershore Abbey
THE PHOENIX SINGERS: COME AND SING
Featuring Sierra Farquhar-Wulff (music director). Programme includes works by Vivaldi, Bernstein & Finzi, Sat 13 June, Holy Trinity Church, Shrewsbury
THE BEST OF JOHN WILLIAMS Featuring Anthony Inglis (conductor) & the London Concert Orchestra, Sun 14
June, Symphony Hall, Birmingham
BIRMINGHAM PHILHARMONIC
ORCHESTRA: MAHLER 2, THE RESURRECTION Featuring Michael Lloyd (conductor), Alison Roddy (soprano) & Emma Roberts (mezzosoprano), Sun 14 June, Birmingham Town Hall
NIGEL KENNEDY (VIOLIN): VIRTUOSO
Featuring Alec Dankworth (double bass) & Peter Adams (cello). A unique evening of classical, jazz, and contemporary repertoire, Sun 14 June, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry
SYMPHONIC SUNDAY GALA CONCERT Sun 14 June, Shrewsbury School
STAFFORD SINFONIA: ECCLESHALL
SUMMERTIME CLASSICS Featuring Jack Lovell-Huckle (musical director) & Colin Moody (trumpet). Programme includes works by Mozart, Haydn & Beethoven, Sun 14
June, Holy Trinity Church, Eccleshall, Stafford
BIRMINGHAM INTERNATIONAL PIANO
FESTIVAL Featuring piano recitals and masterclasses from Sir Stephen Hough, Klaus Sticken, Andreas Frölich & more..., Sun 14 - Thurs 18 June, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire
Comedy
SAM AVERY, NINA GILLIGAN, FINLAY
CHRISTIE & EMMANUEL SONUBI Tues 9 June, Aston Hall, Wrexham
JOSH PUGH, WAYNE BEESE & COMICS
Monday 8 - Sunday 14
TBC Tues 9 June, Artrix, Bromsgrove
JULIETTE BURTON Thurs 11 June, The Old Joint Stock, Birmingham
RUFUS RICE Thurs 11 June, The Glee Club, Birmingham
CARL HUTCHINSON, BARRY DODDS, MARK NELSON & ALEXIS ROY Fri 12 June, The Glee Club, Birmingham
LAKATOS LÁSZLÓ Fri 12 June, The Glee Club, Birmingham
ALFIE MOORE Fri 12 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
MARK THOMAS Fri 12 June, Festival Drayton Centre, Market Drayton, North Shropshire
RUBY WAX Fri 12 June, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry
CARL HUTCHINSON, BARRY DODDS, MARK NELSON & COMIC TBC Sat 13 June, The Glee Club, Birmingham
JONNY COLE Sat 13 June, Brierley Hill Civic, Dudley
RUBY WAX Sat 13 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
STEPHEN BAILEY, NABIL ABDULRASHID, JOSH PUGH, LINDSEY SANTORO & TEZ
ILYAS Sat 13 June, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry
RAHUL SUBRAMANIAN Sun 14 June, The Glee Club, Birmingham
ROUGH WORKS: NEW MATERIAL NIGHT Sun 14 June, The Glee Club, B’ham
RICH HALL Sun 14 June, Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek, Staffs
Theatre
ROMEO & JULIET Oddsocks present a new take on Shakespeare’s tragic love story, Mon 8 - Wed 10 June, Belgrade Theatre, Coventry
KISS ME, KATE Amateur version presented by Pershore Operatic and Dramatic Society (PODS), Mon 8Sat 13 June, Number 8, Pershore
WILD ABOUT OSCAR Jonathan Goodwin presents a one-man show, Tues 9 June, Middleport Pottery, Stoke-on-Trent
FOOTLOOSE Shrewsbury College present an amateur stage version of the iconic 1984 film, Tues 9 - Thurs 11 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
WE WILL ROCK YOU BMOS present an
amateur version of the Ben Elton rock musical featuring the hits of Queen, Tues 9 - Sat 13 June, The Alexandra, Birmingham 9 TO 5 THE MUSICAL Amateur version of the Dolly Parton musical, presented by Queensbridge Musical Theatre Society, Tues 9 - Sat 13 June, The Core Theatre, Solihull
SHEILA’S ISLAND Stoke Rep Players present an amateur version of Tim Firth’s adventure, set during an annual outward-bound team-building weekend, Tues 9 - Sat 13 June, Stoke Repertory Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent
SINGLE WHITE FEMALE Kym Marsh and Lisa Faulkner star in the stage version of the hit 1992 movie, Tues 9 - Sat 13 June, Malvern Theatres
REFRESH A showcase of new writing and emerging performers, Tues 9Sun 14 June, Oldbury Rep THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME The Highbury Players present an amateur version of Mark Haddon’s acclaimed story..., Tues 9Sat 20 June, Highbury Theatre Centre, Sutton Coldfield FRANKIE GOES TO BOLLYWOOD Musical comedy drama that tells an uplifting story about ambition, transformation and the power of telling your own story, Wed 10 - Sat 13 June, The Rep, Birmingham OUT OF ORDER Stone Revellers
Musical Theatre present an amateur version of Ray Cooney’s fast-paced comedy, Wed 10 - Sat 13 June, The Crown Wharf Theatre, Stone SUMMER & SMOKE Amateur version of Tennessee Williams’ rarely performed play, Wed 10 - Sat 20 June, The Loft Theatre, Leamington Spa
KING ARTHUR AND THE HOLY FAIL The Three Inch Fools present an outdoor Arthurian adventure with plenty of medieval mayhem, Thurs 11 June, Coventry Cathedral
FROM DEEPER IN THE FOREST Darker tales and fairy stories for grownups, Thurs 11 June, The Crown, Whitchurch, North Shropshire
ANGELS & DEMONS Masque Theatre Company present a show in which Lucifer the Devil’s advocate and Michaela, an angel, make a wager to see who can influence a certain subject to be good or bad, Thurs 11Fri 12 June, Mitchell Arts Centre, Stoke-on-Trent
thelist
INTO THE WOODS Featuring Tony Kraus (conductor) & Andy Yau (director). Stephen Sondheim’s spellbinding musical feast where fairy tales collide and wishes have consequences, Thurs 11 - Sat 13 Jun, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire
CURED Laurence Clark’s ‘laugh-outloud’ and ‘foul-mouthed’ comedy focuses on four young pilgrims as they take on nonsense rules, embarrassing exes, new and hidden fancies, and the big question nobody ever asks: do disabled people actually want to be fixed..., Thurs 11Sat 13 June, The Belgrade Theatre, Coventry
DECKCHAIRS Swan Theatre Amateur Company present Jane McConnell’s twist-in-the-tale playlets for two women, Thurs 11 - Sat 13 June, Malvern Theatres
A BUNCH OF AMATEURS Amateur version of the Nick Newman & Ian Hislop play about superstar tantrums, jealousies and misunderstandings, Thurs 11 - Sun 14 June, Dudley Little Theatre
DONE TO DEATH, BY JOVE Holmes and Watson meet Poirot and Miss Marple (alongside shady servants, muddled motives and plenty of red herrings) in a spoof homage that attempts to find out who murdered Lady Fanshawe..., Fri 12 June, Lichfield Garrick
DIVORCED, BEHEADED, DIED: AN AUDIENCE WITH KING HENRY VIII A oneman, two-act show in which the notorious monarch recounts the events of his life and long reign, Sat 13 June, The Civic, Stourport
TUESDAY Pentabus Youth Theatre present an amateur version of Alison Carr’s playful drama focusing on themes of friendship, sibling love, identity, grief, bullying and loneliness, Sat 13 June, Ludlow Assembly Rooms, South Shropshire
OTHELLO The Lord Chamberlain’s Men present an outdoor version of Shakespeare’s famous tragedy, Sat 13 June, Croome Park, Worcestershire
THAT NIGHT IN MANCHESTER A theatrical journey through the heart and soul of the indie scene, told through the eyes of a father sharing his story with his son, Sat 13 June, Artrix, Bromsgrove
JERUSALEM The Crescent Theatre Company present an amateur version of Jez Butterworth’s comic and contemporary vision of life in England’s green and pleasant land, Sat 13 - Sat 20 June, The Crescent Theatre, Birmingham
BONNIE & CLYDE: THE MUSICAL Amateur version of the hit show about America’s most notorious outlaw couple, Sat 13 - Sat 20 June, Theatre On The Steps, Bridgnorth, South Shropshire
PATEL’S MILLIONS 2 Comedy featuring ‘foot-tapping Bollywood songs and dazzling dances’, Sun 14 June, The Alexandra, Birmingham
THE (ALMOST) COMPLETE HISTORY OF BRITAIN The Pantaloons present a breathless race through the centuries, telling the entire story of Britain in under two hours, Sun 14 June, Lenches Amphitheatre, Church Lench, Worcestershire
Kids Theatre
THE ENORMOUS CROCODILE: THE MUSICAL A mischievous musical adventure for younger audiences, based on Roald Dahl’s snappy book, Thurs 11 - Sun 14 June, The Belgrade Theatre, Coventry
Dance
BALLET CYMRU: THE SLEEPING BEAUTY
A reimagining of the classic fairytale, set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, Mon 8 June, New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme
BALLETBOYZ: STILL POINTLESS Ten ‘world-class’ dancers take audiences on a journey through some of BalletBoyz’ best moments. The programme includes an excerpt from Russell Maliphant’s Critical Mass as well as the world premiere of a brand-new commission by Seirian Griffiths, Tues 9 June, Lichfield Garrick
BALLET BLACK AT 25 Double bill featuring the company’s signature blend of powerful storytelling, striking choreography and rich global influences, Tues 9 June, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre
NIKITA KUZMIN: SUPERNOVA New dance spectacular fuelled by the firepower of ‘world-class’ performers and creatives from around the world, Tues 9 - Wed 10 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
Light Entertainment
THE ARCHERS: LIVE AT 75 Landmark event hosted by comedian & superfan Angela Barnes, with contributions from Archers actors Charles Collingwood, Ryan Kelly, Susie Riddell and Sunny Ormonde. Sound effects from Vanessa Nuttall
also feature, Mon 8 June, Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent THAT’LL BE THE DAY Rock & roll, pop and comedy combine in this 40thanniversary production, featuring hits from the 1950s through to the 80s, Tues 9 June, The Belgrade Theatre, Coventry
BOX OF FROGS Birmingham’s premiere improv group present an evening of comedy nonsense, based entirely on audience suggestions, Wed 10 June, 1000 Trades, The Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham
K-POP ALL STARS Celebration of the music, artists and culture ‘that’s taking the world by storm’, Wed 10 June, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry
JULIETTE BURTON: VILLAIN ERA Join the dark side in this comedy quest for grown-up geeks and justice-hungry joy seekers who are ready to battle the ‘real’ dragons: inequality and bad sex lives, Thurs 11 June, The Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham THE WEST END SEASONS Celebrating Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, Thurs 11 June, Halesowen Town Hall
LES MISERABLES: THE ARENA CONCERT SPECTACULAR Large-scale production featuring an internationally acclaimed company and orchestra, Thurs 11Sun 14 June, Utilita Arena Birmingham
THANK YOU FOR THE MUESLI Join Flabba for big harmonies, bold costumes and pun-delicious comedy in an interactive celebration of pop, Fri 12 June, The Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham
JESS ROBINSON: ELTON JOHN REIMAGINED An evening with the award-winning comedian & singer, renowned for her pitch-perfect impressions, Fri 12 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
A NIGHT AT THE OPERA BY CANDLELIGHT
Featuring a ‘sparkling’ mix of duets and trios from operatic classics, Fri 12 June, Worcester Cathedral THE 80S SHOW Featuring the biggest hits of the decade, presented alongside a video, light & laser show, Fri 12 June, Dudley Town Hall
KEITH AND MARJ: US, POTS AND A WELSH CHAPEL Join Keith Brymer and Marj Hogarth as they share stories of clay, craft, and their most ambitious project to date, Fri 12 June, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry
FLAMENCO FROM SPAIN Evening of dance, music and singing featuring
Unscripted present a comedic homage to quintessentially British whodunits, Fri 12 - Sat 13 June, Winterbourne Gardens, Birmingham
THIS IS YOUR TRIAL - THE FULLY IMPROVISED COMEDY COURTROOM Live comedy show during which you can accuse friends of ‘crimes’ and see them put on trial. Everybody else in the audience is the jury, deciding who is guilty or innocent, Sat 13 June, The Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham
THE MUSIC OF JAMES BOND Featuring the Great British Film Orchestra performing Diamonds Are Forever, Goldfinger, Skyfall, Licence To Kill and many more..., Sat 13 June, Worcester Cathedral
RICHARD JONES: THE SOUND OF MAGIC Expect ‘inexplicable feats and unbelievable illusions’ from the first magician to win Britain’s Got Talent, Sat 13 June, The Brewhouse Arts Centre, Burton upon Trent
KEITH AND MARJ: US, POTS AND A WELSH CHAPEL Join Keith Brymer and Marj Hogarth as they share stories of clay, craft, and their most ambitious project to date, Sat 13 June, Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent
BBC BIG BAND: THE GREAT AMERICAN SONGBOOK Celebration of the music of George Gershwin and Cole Porter. Featuring guest vocalists Matt Ford and Emer McParland, Sun 14 June, The Rep, Birmingham
RAVE ON ‘The ultimate 50s and 60s rock & roll experience’, Sun 14 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
ENCHANTED - THE ULTIMATE PRINCESS CONCERT Songs of fairytales are brought to life in a candlelit setting, Sun 14 June, Rother Street Arts, Stratford-upon-Avon
Talks & Spoken Word
THE MAKINGS OF A MURDERER: THE UNDERCOVER DETECTIVE Join Peter Bleksley - a founding member of Scotland Yard’s undercover unit - as he lifts the lid on the most hidden aspects of murder investigations, Thurs 11 June, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry
MAGGIE O’FARRELL - LAND A special Stratford Literary Festival event in which the bestselling author of Hamnet introduces her new book, Fri 12 June, Rother Street Arts, Stratfordupon-Avon
WATCH US LEAD: IN CONVERSATION WITH CHRISTOPHER SAMUEL Revealing the hidden experiences of Black and disabled people whose lives have gone unrecorded and successes uncelebrated, both historically and now, Sat 13 June, Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
STEP INTO THE WILD! A talk with local professional wildlife photographer Terry Moore, who will take you behind the lens and deep into the natural world, Sat 13 June, Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery
Events
THE BIG BANG FAIR 2026 Schools from across the UK are invited to attend and inspire the next generation with hands-on activities, experiments and workshops, Tues 9 - Thurs 11 June, NEC, Birmingham
A WALK IN THE PARK: SUMMER STROLL Join landscape manager Fiona
Tansey for a walk through the meadows, discovering the native flora and fauna, Wed 10 June, Compton Verney, Warwickshire
ROYAL BIRMINGHAM CONSERVATOIRE
OPEN DAY Take part in talks, tour the building, and meet academics and students, Thurs 11 June, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire
ANIMECON The UK’s largest anime and manga convention, Fri 12 - Sun 14 June, NEC, Birmingham
ROYAL THREE COUNTIES SHOW Event celebrating rural life, agriculture and the community, Fri 12 - Sun 14 June, Three Counties Showground, Malvern THE WORLD OF PARK AND LEISURE
HOME Explore a huge variety of homes, Fri 12 - Sun 14 June, NAEC Stoneleigh, Warwickshire
HERITAGE GLASS AND CHURCH WALKING
TOUR A journey through the history of glass, exploring the churches, canals, factories and people that made the Stourbridge glass industry what it is today, Sat 13 June, Stourbridge Glass Museum
WALSALL DINING CLUB A feast of award-winning street food and live entertainment, Sat 13 June, 139 Broadway North, Walsall
BONGO’S BINGO The original bingo rave sensation, Sat 13 June, The Buttermarket, Shrewsbury
FESTIVAL OF VEHICLES Displaying vehicles manufactured in the West Midlands, Sat 13 - Sun 14 June, Black Country Living Museum, Dudley
JURASSIC JUNE Discover the fascinating world of dinosaurs, Sat 13 - Sun 14 June, West Midlands Safari Park, Bewdley
TAMWORTH DINE’N’DEVOUR Familyfriendly food & artisan festival, Sat 13 - Sun 14 June, Tamworth Castle Grounds
AVONCROFT DOG SHOW Featuring
show classes, agility classes, demonstrations, talks, trade stands and more, Sun 14 June, Avoncroft Museum, Bromsgrove
ARTISAN FOOD AND CRAFT FAIR
Outdoor market featuring craft and food stalls, Sun 14 June, Himley Hall, Dudley
RAF COSFORD AIR SHOW Featuring aircraft from across the globe, technology showcases and hands-on activities, Sun 14 June, RAF Cosford Museum, Shifnal
CREATION STATION Enjoy a day of train rides and crafting, Sun 14 June, Telford Steam Railway
BRAKE VAN RIDES Experience what it’s like to be a guard travelling in an authentic brake van, Sun 14 June, Telford Steam Railway, Shropshire
Festivals
DOWNLOAD FESTIVAL Line-up includes Limp Bizkit, Linkin Park, Guns ‘N Roses, Wed 10 - Sun 14 June, Donington Park, Derby
LEGENDS BY THE LAKE Family-friendly tribute festival, Sat 13 June, Himley Hall, Dudley
thelist
Gigs
THIS WILL DESTROY YOU Mon 15 June, Hare & Hounds, Birmingham
STACY ANTONEL Mon 15
June, Kitchen Garden, Birmingham
AGATE MAX + TOUT BLEU Tues 16 June, Centrala, Birmingham
AROOJ AFTAB WITH LONDON CONTEMPORARY
ORCHESTRA Tues 16 June, Symphony Hall, Birmingham
BARRY MANILOW Tues 16 June, bp pulse LIVE, Birmingham
KATIE SPENCER Wed 17
June, Temperance, Leamington Spa
GNOSS Wed 17 June, The Fleece Inn, Bretforton, Nr Evesham
RUMOURS OF FLEETWOOD MAC Wed 17 - Thurs 18 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
CONRAD KELLYMEMORIAL CONCERT Thurs 18 June, Hare & Hounds, Birmingham
HOME COUNTIES Thurs 18 June, Hare & Hounds, Birmingham
THE HEART OF NEW ORLEANS Thurs 18
June, The Jam House, Birmingham
ONE LEG ONE EYE Thurs 18 June, Castle & Falcon, Birmingham
COULD BE GHOSTS + SUNDAY BEST + MONROE + EQUINOX + MISTING Thurs 18 June, Centrala, Birmingham
JACK GOODALL Thurs 18 June, The Victoria, Birmingham
LADY MAISERY + JIMMY & SID Thurs 18 June, Jennifer Blackwell Performance Space, Symphony Hall, B’ham ENDLESS LOVE THE SHOW Thurs 18 June, The Alexandra, B’ham
THE TOM CAMPBELL TRIO Thurs 18 June, Temperance, Leamington Spa
NIGHT OF ROCK #2 Thurs 18 June, The Tin At The Coal Vaults, Coventry
THE SOUL REVIVAL + FRACXURA + BLACK STAR BULLET Thurs 18 June, hmv Empire, Coventry
UB40 + MAXI PRIEST + ASWAD Sat 20 June, bp pulse LIVE, B’ham
KAYTRANADA + UNCLE
WAFFLES Sat 20 June, Utilita Arena B’ham
PEARL SCAM Sat 20 June, The Assembly, Leamington Spa
THE DUSK BROTHERS Sat 20 June, Temperance, Leamington Spa
TRIBUTE Fri 19 June, The Station, Cannock
SIGHT ‘N’ SOUND Fri 19 June, The Feathers Inn, Lichfield
THE PITMEN POETS Fri 19 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
MOTÖRHEADACHE UK Fri 19 June, The Buttermarket, Shrewsbury
NIGEL CLARK + BEN MCKELVEY Fri 19 June, Albert’s Shed, Shrewsbury
SWING FROM PARIS Fri 19 June, Ludlow Assembly Rooms, South Shropshire
THE LEGEND OF BARRY WHITE Fri 19 June, Aston Hall, Wrexham
LINK IN PARK Fri 19 - Sat 20 June, Queens Hall, Nuneaton
ELLE-J WALTERS BAND Fri 19 - Sat 20 June, The Jam House, B’ham
ELLIE JONES & THE GIANTS Sat 20 June, Hare & Hounds, B’ham
THE DENABYS + JACK FLETCHER + STEP OUT Sat 20 June, The Sunflower Lounge, Birmingham
DRONGOS FOR EUROPE + THE MISTAKES Sat 20 June, Tower of Song, Birmingham
AGRICULTURE Sat 20 June, Castle & Falcon, Birmingham
MARIMARI Sat 20 June, Dead Wax, Birmingham
ULTRA:FOXX Sat 20 June, The Flapper, Birmingham
THE NINETYTEN Sat 20
June, KK’s Steel Mill, Wolverhampton
GAVIN FAIRHALL LEVER Sat 20 June, Wolverhampton Arts Centre
POIZON + SHEF LEPPARD Sat 20 June, Eleven, Stoke-on-Trent
VIVA MORRISSEY Sat 20 June, The Artisan Tap, Stoke-on-Trent
THE CLASSIC BLUES SHOW Sat 20 June, The Hub at St Mary’s, Lichfield
PRETTY GREEN Sat 20 June, The Rhodehouse, Sutton Coldfield
THE DEVOUT Sat 20 June, hmv Empire, Coventry
THE WOMEN IN ROCK Sat 20 June, Albany Theatre, Coventry
ROCK FOR HEROES Sat 20 June, Rother Street Arts, Stratford-uponAvon
JULIE JULY BAND Sat 20 June, Number 8, Pershore
MYSTERIOUS BLUES Sat 20 June, Queens Hall, Nuneaton
THE ROVING CROWS Sat 20 June, The Market Theatre, Ledbury
THE TOM PETTY LEGACY Sat 20 June, Regal, Tenbury Wells
THE ALTER EAGLES Sat 20 June, Swan Theatre, Worcester
MARQUEE SQUARE
HEROES Sat 20 June, Huntingdon Hall, Worcester
RORY MCLEOD Sat 20 June, West Malvern Social Club
FRACTURE Sat 20 June, The Valkyrie Bar, Evesham
A VISION OF ELVIS Sat 20 June, Brierley Hill Civic, Dudley
NOUGHTY NINETIES Sat 20 June, The River Rooms, Stourbridge
LIMEHOUSE LIZZY Sat 20 June, The Robin, Bilston
BADGERFEST Sat 20
June, Katie Fitzgerald’s, Stourbridge
GAMBLER Sat 20 June, The Feathers Inn, Lichfield
LET ME ENTERTAIN YOUROBBIE WILLIAMS
TRIBUTE Sat 20 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
WILD CANDY Sat 20 June, Albert’s Shed, Shrewsbury
SOUND AND VISIONBOWIE TRIBUTE Sat 20 June, Ludlow Assembly Rooms, South Shropshire
VINCENT FLATTS Sun 21 June, Actress & Bishop, Birmingham FORTYEIGHTERS Sun 21 June, The Dark Horse, Moseley, Birmingham AND THEN THERE WAS... PHIL Sun 21 June, The Alexandra, Birmingham FLASHBACK Sun 21 June, Queens Hall, Nuneaton
ROCK FOR HEROES Sun 21 June, Swan Theatre, Worcester
THE ILLEGAL EAGLES Sun 21 June, Malvern Theatres
THE JONETTES & JUST DUST Sun 21 June, The Red Lion, Evesham
TRAVELING WILBURY’S EXPERIENCE Sun 21 June, The Robin, Bilston
ROD AND THE FACEZ Sun 21 June, Eleven, Stokeon-Trent
ANNA HOWIE + SNEZ Sun 21 June, The Artisan Tap, Stoke-onTrent
THE SIMON & GARFUNKEL STORY Sun 21 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
Lady Maisery + Jimmy & Sid - Symphony Hall, Birmingham
Classical Music
LUNCHTIME ORGAN CONCERT WITH THOMAS TROTTER: SUMMER MUSIC Programme includes works by Coates, Ireland, Mendelssohn & more..., Mon 15 June, Birmingham Town Hall
CBSO: CUPPA CONCERT Short, relaxed concert featuring a range of familiar music to be enjoyed in a friendly and supportive atmosphere by those living with dementia and their carers, Mon 15 June, CBSO Centre, B’ham THE MIKE GIBBS PRIZE 2026 RBC students go head to head in this composition and arranging prize, Mon 15 June, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire
MATTHEW BREEN ORGAN RECITAL Mon 15 June, Coventry Cathedral
RBC CHAMBER CHOIR Featuring Julian Wilkins (conductor) & George Moloney (organ/piano). Programme includes works by JS Bach, Britten, Byrd & more..., Tues 16 June, Holy Trinity Church, Leamington Spa
CODA FESTIVAL 2026 RBC’s renowned contemporary music and performance festival, Tues 16 - Wed 17 June, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire
CBSO: TCHAIKOVSKY’S VIOLIN CONCERTO Featuring Dima Slobodeniouk (conductor) & Inmo Yang (violin). Programme includes works by Martinu, Tchaikovsky & Prokofiev, Thurs 18 June, Symphony Hall, Birmingham
ARMONICO CONSORT: HENRY PURCELL’S KING ARTHUR Featuring Christopher Monks (director), Oz Clarke (narrator), Hannah Frazer Mackenzie, Laura Moretto, William Towers, William Searle & Alex Jones (cast), Thurs 18 June, St Mary’s Church, Warwick
CBSO CENTRE STAGE: BRAHMS’ PIANO QUARTET NO.1 Featuring Eugene Tzikindelean(violin), David BaMaung (viola), Arthur Boutillier (cello) & Salome Chitaia (piano), Fri 19 June, CBSO Centre, Birmingham
ALPESH CHAUHAN CONDUCTS SIBELIUS 2 Featuring Royal Birmingham Conservatoire Symphony Orchestra. Programme also includes works by Vinicius Motta & Kodály, Fri 19 June, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire LIVE AT THE MUSICALS WITH THE BBC CONCERT ORCHESTRA Featuring Pete Harrison (conductor). Programme includes orchestral favourites from musicals, Fri 19 June, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry
DAVID BENDIX NIELSEN ORGAN RECITAL Fri 19 June, St Mary’s Church, Warwick
DI XIAO PIANO RECITAL Programme includes works by Sibelius, Tchaikovsky, Grieg & more..., Fri 19 June, Newcastle Community Centre,
Newcastle-on-Clun
INSPIRE CHOIR SUMMER CONCERT Fri 19 June, The Hub at St Mary’s, Lichfield
CBSO: CELEBRATING BERNSTEIN
Featuring Carlos Miguel Prieto (conductor), Scarlett Strallen & Julian Ovenden (vocalists), Sat 20 June, Symphony Hall, Birmingham
CHELTENHAM BACH CHOIR: A NIGHT AT THE OPERA Featuring Harriet Burns (soprano), Marta Fontanals-Simmons (mezzo soprano) & Waiyan Lee (accompanist), Sat 20 June, Great Malvern Priory
CHELTENHAM SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: GALLERY OF THE IMAGINATION
Featuring James Lancelot (organ). Programme includes works by Berlioz, Poulenc & Mussorgsky, Sat 20 June, Pershore Abbey
ROSSINI’S PETITE MESSE SOLENNELLE
Featuring Gemma King (soprano), Bethan Langford (alto), Richard Robbins (tenor), Andrew Wickens (bass), Catrina Lapage & John Bowen (accompanists), Sat 20 June, United Reformed Church, Shrewsbury
LUDLOW CHORAL SOCIETY: SUMPTUOUS MUSIC FOR A SUMMER’S EVENING
Featuring Laura Toomey (alto), Cathy Lamb (piano), Nicola Starkie (director) & Ludlow Camerata led by Anne Tupling. Programme includes works by Chilcott, Dunachie, Boulanger & more..., Sat 20 June, St Laurence’s Church, Ludlow, South Shropshire
DARIUS BATTIWALLA ORGAN PROMS Sat 20 June, Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Trent
SIR KARL JENKINS CONDUCTS THE ARMED MAN Featuring the London Concert Orchestra, Canzonetta Choir, Kathryn Rudge (mezzo-soprano), Zands Duggan (hand percussion) & Osama Kiwan (muezzin), Sun 21 June, Symphony Hall, Birmingham
BIRMINGHAM CONTEMPORARY MUSIC GROUP: STILL LIFE Featuring Ted Moore (video & sound designer) & Clement Power (conductor). Programme include works by C Bray, E Carter, G Lewis & K Balch, Sun 21 June, CBSO Centre, Birmingham
Comedy
GASLIGHT COMEDY Tues 16 June, The Dovehouse, Solihull
ISMO Wed 17 June, Birmingham Town Hall
ANIA MAGLIANO Thurs 18 June, The Glee Club, Birmingham
LARRY DEAN Thurs 18 June, Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek, Staffs
AALEX MANDEL-DALLAL + LAUREN
SOLEY Thurs 18 June, Cherry Reds, Birmingham
TYLER FISCHER Fri 19 June, The Glee Club, Birmingham
Monday 15 - Sunday 21
CRYSTAL MARIE Fri 19 June, The Old Rep Theatre, Birmingham
SOL BERNSTEIN, DAVID EAGLE, SCOTTISH FALSETTO SOCK PUPPET
THEATRE & PETE TECKMAN Fri 19 June, Bedworth Civic Hall
RICH HALL Fri 19 June, Regal, Tenbury Wells
MIKE COX, ROBERT WHITE, ANNIE BOYLE & COMIC TBC Fri 19 - Sat 20 June, The Glee Club, Birmingham
GAURAV KAPOOR Sat 20 June, The Glee Club, Birmingham
DANNY BHOY Sat 20 June, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry
TOM STADE Sun 21 June, Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek, Staffs
Theatre
TONS OF MONEY The Nonentities present an amateur version of Will Evans & Arthur Valentine’s farce, Mon 15 - Sat 20 June, The Rose Theatre, Kidderminster
THE 39 STEPS Scarlet Theatre present an amateur version of Patrick Barlow’s award-winning stage version of John Buchan’s famous novel, Mon 15, Thurs 18 & Sat 20 June, Stoke Repertory Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent
BOG WITCH Bryony Kimmings’ critically acclaimed show tells how she uprooted herself and her son to live in a tumbledown cottage in the wilderness, Tues 16 June, Swan Theatre, Worcester
MONA LISA SMILE Scarlet Theatre present an amateur stage version of the film of the same name, Tues 16, Fri 19 & Sat 20 June, Stoke Repertory Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent
ABIGAIL’S PARTY Tamzin Outhwaite stars as Beverley in a new version of Mike Leigh’s dark suburban comedy, Tues 16 - Sat 20 June, Malvern Theatres
SHAKERS Scarlet Theatre present an amateur version of John Godber’s fast-paced comedy, Wed 17 June, Stoke Rep Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent
BONNIE & CLYDE: THE MUSICAL The Norbury Players present an amateur version of the hit show about America’s most notorious outlaw couple, Wed 17 - Sat 27 June, Norbury Theatre, Droitwich
AS YOU LIKE IT Amateur version of Shakespeare’s pastoral comedy, Thurs 18 June, The Bear Pitt Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon
AN EVENING WITH ABRAHAM LINCOLN
Jacob Truax stars in a one-man show in which President Lincoln relates his life story, Thurs 18 June, The Albany Theatre, Coventry
KING ARTHUR AND THE HOLY FAIL The Three Inch Fools present an outdoor Arthurian adventure with plenty of
medieval mayhem, Thurs 18 June, Spetchley Park Gardens, Worcester
P*SSED UP PANTO: CINDERELLA
Featuring strong language and adult themes. Age restriction is 16-plus, Thurs 18 - Fri 19 June, Lichfield Garrick
LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS Amateur version presented by Aldridge Musical Comedy Society, Thurs 18Sat 20 June, The Rugeley Rose Theatre
THE GREAT BRITISH BAKE OFF - THE MUSICAL Amateur version of the stage show based on the hit television series of the same name, Thurs 18Sat 20 June, The Little Theatre, Donnington, Shropshire
SHREK THE MUSICAL JR Amateur version presented by Walsall Youth Theatre, Thurs 18 - Sat 20 June, Walsall Arena & Arts Centre
COSI FAN TUTTE Merry Opera Theatre Company present Mozart’s comedy of love, lies and life lessons, Fri 19 June, Lichfield Garrick
OTHELLO The Lord Chamberlain’s Men present an outdoor version of Shakespeare’s famous tragedy, Fri 19 June, Packwood House, Solihull TWO SISTERS, SHAKESPEARE’S DAUGHTERS The remarkable story of two young women in Tudor England, Fri 19 June, The Bear Pitt Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon
MEMOIRS OF SHERLOCK HOLMES Jonathan Goodwin plays Sherlock Holmes and a host of other characters in a stage show based on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic stories, Fri 19 June, The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery, Stoke-on-Trent A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Retelling of Shakespeare’s classic comedy for everyone aged seven and above. A co-production between the RSC and Unicorn Theatre, Fri 19 June - Sun 30 Aug, The Other Place, Stratford-upon-Avon
ORFEO - MIDSUMMER NIGHT Immersive dusk-till-dawn odyssey inspired by the tale of Orpheus and Eurydice, Sat 20 June, Playbox Theatre, The Dream Factory, Warwick
WE WILL ROCK YOU Amateur version of Ben Elton’s smash-hit musical, Sat 20 - Sat 27 June, Rugby Theatre
WITHOUT BY NEIL REIDMAN Acclaimed show chronicling one man’s life, from the Windrush era through to modern times, Sun 21 June, Midlands Arts Centre, Birmingham
I’M FRANK MORGAN REWIRED ‘The story of a hard man in a dirty old town’. Part of the Paradise Heights series from award-winning writer & director Joe O’Byrne, Sun 21 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
ROMEO & JULIET Oddsocks present a new take on Shakespeare’s tragic love story, Sun 21 June, Bowring Park, Telford
thelist
THE TWITS Amateur version of Roald Dahl’s classic story, Sun 21 June, Rugeley Rose Theatre
Kids Theatre
PEPPA PIG’S BIG FAMILY SHOW Brandnew live stage show for little ones, Tues 16 - Wed 17 June, The Alexandra, Birmingham
PLANET OMAR World premiere telling of the story of an eight-year-old British-Pakistani Muslim boy with a wild imagination, a big heart, and a knack for getting into trouble, Thurs 18 - Sun 21 June, The Rep, Birmingham
THE ENORMOUS CROCODILE: THE MUSICAL A mischievous musical adventure for younger audiences, based on Roald Dahl’s snappy book, Thurs 18 - Sun 21 June, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre
BRAINIAC LIVE Education and fun collide in an all-action family show that promises to take audiences on ‘a breathless ride through the wild world of the weird and wonderful’, Sat 20 June, The Belgrade Theatre, Coventry
Dance
BALLETBOYZ: STILL POINTLESS Ten
‘world-class’ dancers take audiences on a journey through some of BalletBoyz’ best moments. The programme includes an excerpt from Russell Maliphant’s Critical Mass as well as the world premiere of a brand-new commission by Seirian Griffiths, Tues 16 June, The Rep, Birmingham
BIRMINGHAM ROYAL BALLET: SIR PETER WRIGHT CENTENARY Celebratory show in which Carlos Acosta makes his debut as Death in a performance of The Green Table, Thurs 18 June, Birmingham Hippodrome
AMY DOWDEN & CARLOS GU: REBORN
Featuring a dazzling cast of ‘worldclass’ dancers and ‘amazing’ live vocalists, performing to a soundtrack of iconic anthems from across the decades, Fri 19 June, The Alexandra, Birmingham
BALLETBOYZ: STILL POINTLESS Ten ‘world-class’ dancers take audiences on a journey through some of BalletBoyz’ best moments. The programme includes an excerpt from Russell Maliphant’s Critical Mass as well as the world premiere of a brand-new commission by Seirian Griffiths, Fri 19 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
FLAMENCO EXPRESS A floating festival featuring La Joaquina and Chris Clavo, with vocals from Antonio El Pola, Fri 19 June, Rother Street Arts, Stratford-upon-Avon
BIRMINGHAM ROYAL BALLET: 20TH
CENTURY MASTERPIECES Featuring works by three choreographic giants - Frederich Ashton (Birthday Offering), Kurt Jooss (The Green Table) and George Balanchine (Theme And Variations), Fri 19 - Sat 20 June, Birmingham Hippodrome
JAIVANT PATEL COMPANY: SAMARPAN
MAHOTSAV Showcase of Indian classical dance, in celebration of Jaivant Patel Company’s 20th anniversary, Sat 20 June, Arena Theatre, Wolverhampton
Light Entertainment
KEITH AND MARJ: US, POTS AND A WELSH CHAPEL Join Keith Brymer and Marj Hogarth as they share stories of clay, craft, and their most ambitious project to date, Mon 15 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
K-POP ALL STARS Celebration of the music, artists and culture ‘that’s taking the world by storm’, Tues 16 June, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre
SEAN COLLYNS An evening with the medium and bestselling author, Tues 16 June, The Glee Club, Birmingham
JUKEBOX IDOLS Whirlwind trip through the greatest hits of the 1950s and 60s, featuring The Overtones and Strictly’s Nadia Bychkova and Louis Smith, Tues 16 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
A SPOOKY SOIREE Regal Community Theatre present an evening of mystery, suspense and the supernatural, Tues 16 - Thurs 18 June, The Regal, Tenbury
STRANGE, BUT TRUE CRIME Join former forensics lecturer & police recruit trainer Jennifer Rees to explore the world’s most shocking and hard-tobelieve crimes, Wed 17 June, The Core Theatre, Solihull
KERRY KATONA’S SUPER TROUPERS
Kerry Katona stars in ‘the ultimate non-stop party tribute to Mamma Mia! The Musical’, Wed 17 June, Palace Theatre, Redditch
BEYOND THE BARRICADE The UK’s longest-running musical theatre concert tour, featuring numbers from The Phantom Of The Opera, Jesus Christ Superstar, West Side Story, Blood Brothers and more..., Wed 17 June, Lichfield Garrick
ENDLESS LOVE: THE SHOW Celebration of the music of Diana Ross and Lionel Richie, Thurs 18 June, The Alexandra, Birmingham
BEYOND THE BARRICADE The UK’s longest-running musical theatre concert tour, featuring numbers from The Phantom Of The Opera, Jesus Christ Superstar, West Side Story, Blood Brothers and more..., Thurs 18 June, Palace Theatre, Redditch
ANYONE FOR TENNIS? Join comedian
Pauline Eyre for an evening of ‘smashing stories, ace anecdotes and a 40-love letter to the game’, Thurs 18 June, Lichfield Garrick
PRINCESS SPARKLES Step into the notso-glittery world of Princess Sparkles, a professional princess-for-hire who’s very available, a teeny bit unstable, and just that little bit too much..., Thurs 18 June, The Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham
CIRCUS OF PUBLIC OPINION Improvised courtroom comedy, Fri 19 June, The Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham THE PITMAN POETS An evening of songs and stories laced with North East humour and humanity, Fri 19 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
KERRY KATONA’S SUPER TROUPERS
Kerry Katona stars in ‘the ultimate non-stop party tribute to Mamma Mia! The Musical’, Fri 19 June, Dudley Town Hall
ANITA HARRIS & FRIENDS Midday variety show featuring comedian Micky Zany, piano maestro Pete Gill, singer Kate Ashby and musician Andy Eastwood, Fri 19 June, The Belgrade Theatre, Coventry
ANYONE FOR TENNIS? Join comedian Pauline Eyre for an evening of ‘smashing stories, ace anecdotes and a 40-love letter to the game’, Fri 19 June, The Albany Theatre, Coventry
THE D-DAY DARLINGS: SONGS THAT WON THE WAR Nostalgic show featuring memorable songs from 1940s wartime Britain, Fri 19 June, Sutton Coldfield Town Hall
QUEEN BY CANDLELIGHT Fri 19 June, Worcester Cathedral
LIGHT THE LIGHTS Abbey Players present an evening of song, dance and comedy, Fri 19 - Sat 20 June, The Abbey Theatre, Nuneaton
JUKEBOX IDOLS Whirlwind trip through the greatest hits of the 1950s and 60s, featuring The Overtones and Strictly’s Nadia Bychkova and Louis Smith, Sat 20 June, The Alexandra, Birmingham
DANIEL SINCLAIR - HYPNOTIST & MIND
READER LIVE Direct from London’s West End, Sat 20 June, Stafford Gatehouse Theatre
KERRY KATONA’S SUPER TROUPERS
Kerry Katona stars in ‘the ultimate non-stop party tribute to Mamma Mia! The Musical’, Sat 20 June, Lichfield Garrick
BINGO AT TIFFANY’S WITH AUDREY
HEARTBURN Tracey Collins’ hosts an evening of ‘musical comedy, bingo and pure chaos’, Sat 20 June, The Albany Theatre, Coventry
THE MUSIC OF BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN BY CANDLELIGHT Sat 20 June, Worcester Cathedral
REVELATIONS - SONGS BOYS DON’T SING
Featuring dancing, tales and songs from Strictly Come Dancing’s longest-serving judge, Craig Revel Horwood, Sat 20 June, Walsall Arena & Arts Centre
BOWIE BY CANDLELIGHT Sat 20 June, Coventry Cathedral
A NORTHERN TR*NNY HOOTENANNY
Award-winning queer parody in which Disney meets Dolly Parton by way of Manchester’s gay village, Sat 20 - Sun 21 June, The Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham
FLOWERS & FRIENDSHIP BRACELETS
‘The ultimate pop concert tribute’, Sun 21 June, Lichfield Garrick
Talks & Spoken Word
SUKH KAUR OJLA: BREAKING FREE The comedian & writer will be joined by special guests in an ‘entertaining and emotional deep-dive into what it means to live life without a blueprint’, Wed 17 June, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry
EVERYTHING IN THE FOREST IS THE FOREST: PHOTOGRAPHY, CONNECTION AND ECOLOGY Symposium featuring speakers concerned with creativity, connection and ecology, Fri 19 June, Midlands Arts Centre (MAC), Birmingham
ADRIANA BROWNLEE: LIFE IN THE DEATH
ZONE Join the British mountaineer & adventure athlete as she shares stories from some of the most hostile environments in the world, Sat 20 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
Events
MORGAN CAR CLUB DISPLAY Featuring cars from the Morgan Car Club, Wed 17 June, Hanbury Hall, Droitwich Spa
BBC GARDENERS’ WORLD LIVE The ultimate gardener’s day out, featuring experts, shopping and displays, Thurs 18 - Sun 21 June, NEC, B’ham
GOOD FOOD SHOW SUMMER Featuring cooking inspiration with top chefs and live stages, Thurs 18 - Sun 21 June, NEC, Birmingham
WESTON PARK MODEL AIR SHOW
Featuring a line-up of the best pilots
and model craft, and trade line-up, Fri 19 - Sun 21 June, Weston Park, Shropshire
ART FEST WOLVERHAMPTON 2026
Featuring 18 artist stands, each showcasing a unique selection of paintings, prints, sculpture, ceramics, textiles and more, Fri 19 - Sun 21 June, Wolverhampton Arts Centre
POTFEST BY THE LAKE Showcasing the work of over 90 of the UK’s finest ceramics makers, Fri 19 - Sun 21 June, Compton Verney, Warwickshire
TUTANKHAMUN: THE IMMERSIVE
EXHIBITION Featuring immersive video projections, VR and metaverse experiences, artefacts and more, Fri 19 June - Sun 13 Sept, NEC, B’ham
TUNNEL TOURS Explore the tunnels that lie beneath the museum and learn about their history, Sat 20 June, Stourbridge Glass Museum
SUMMER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION A night of music, connection, food and celebration, Sat 20 June, Fordhall Organic Farm, Market Drayton
THE LEGO MOVIE A Fathers’ Day planetarium screening, Sat 20 June, Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
STOKE ON TRENT PRIDE Featuring
street performers, dancers, singers and local artists, Sat 20 June, Hanley Park, Stoke-on-Trent
UTTOXETER ARMED FORCES DAY
Celebrating Armed Forces members, Sat 20 June, Market Place, Uttoxeter OVER 30S CLUB DAYTIME OPEN AIR
FESTIVAL Nostalgia-packed evening covering bangers from the 80s, 90s and Noughties, Sat 20 June, The Buttermarket, Shrewsbury
WINDRUSH STORIES DAY Celebrating the real people, voices and experiences that helped shape the Black Country and the UK, Sat 20 June, Black Country Living Museum, Dudley
FATHERS’ DAY LEGO WEEKEND Fun and inspiration await visitors of all ages across four floors of the museum, Sat 20 - Sun 21 June, Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
JURASSIC JUNE Discover the fascinating world of dinosaurs, Sat 20 - Sun 21 June, West Midlands Safari Park, Bewdley
FIRING UP FOR FATHERS DAY WEEKEND
Featuring stationary engines, vintage tractors, classic vehicles and more, Sat 20 - Sun 21 June, Avoncroft Museum, Bromsgrove
Monday 15 - Sunday 21 June
SUMMER FAMILY FUN WEEKEND
Featuring a selection of activities in the castle courtyard, Sat 20 - Sun 21 June, Dudley Zoo
WWE EUROPEAN SUMMER TOUR See all your favourite WWE superstars, Sun 21 June, Utilita Arena Birmingham
VEGAN MARKET CO Featuring an array of food and vegan-product vendors, Sun 21 June, Castle Bromwich Historic Gardens
BEARWOOD DINING CLUB Featuring award-winning street food and live entertainment, Sun 21 June, Lightwoods Park and House, Bearwood
BIRMINGHAM BRICK FESTIVAL Legothemed fun for families, collectors, adult builders and every kind of Lego fan, Sun 21 June, ICC Birmingham
MADE IN SHROPSHIRE ARTISAN FAIR
Featuring 30 art, craft and food stalls, Sun 21 June, Dudmaston Estate, nr Bridgnorth, Shropshire
CLASSIC CAR & MOTOR SHOW
Featuring displays of up to 1,000 vintage, classic and modern-classic cars and motorcycles, Sun 21 June, Ragley Hall, Warwickshire
FATHER’S DAY FLYER Experience the thrill of riding on the footplate of a
steam locomotive, Sun 21 June, Telford Steam Railway
DRIVERS AUTOMOTIVE SHOW
Showcasing everything from Modified to OEM, Retro to Modern, Supercars to 4x4s and much more, Sun 21 June, West Mid Showground, Shrewsbury
Festivals
BEARDY FOLK FESTIVAL Line-up includes Roving Crows, Peatbog Faeries, Ian Prowse & Amsterdam, Thurs 18 - Sun 21 June, Hopton Court, Cleobury Mortimer, Shropshire
SONIC ROCK SOLSTICE Line-up includes The Lene Lovich Band, Punishment of Luxury, The March Violets & more..., Thurs 18 - Mon 22 June, Stoke Prior Sports and Country Club, Bromsgrove
PARKLANDS FESTIVAL Line-up includes Phil Tangent, Jeremy Healy, DJ Luck and MC Neat, Fri 19 - Sun 21 June, Telford Town Park, Shropshire
DARESBURY FESTIVAL Line-up includes Annie Mac, Roger Sanchez, 808 State & more..., Sat 20 June, Walton Hall & Gardens, Cheshire
thelist
Gigs
LINDSEY WEBSTER Mon 22 June, Hare & Hounds, Birmingham
SEEKING SEROTONIN
Mon 22 June, Kitchen Garden, Birmingham
SWIM DEEP Mon 22 June, O2 Institute, Birmingham
ETHEL CAIN Tues 23 June, O2 Academy, Birmingham
BEN HOLDER’S HOT CLUB Tues 23 June, Temperance, Leamington Spa
JOHN MCKAY’S REACTOR + MIKI BERENYI TRIO
Wed 24 June, O2 Institute, Birmingham
ROYEL OTIS Wed 24 June, O2 Academy, Birmingham
FEBUARY + FUNERAL + LETTERS NEVER SENT + MESA VERDE Wed 24 June, Centrala, B’ham
ASHLEY ALLEN & FRIENDS Wed 24 June, Jennifer Blackwell Performance Space, Symphony Hall, B’ham
THE CELINE EXPERIENCE Fri 26 June, King’s Hall, Stoke-On-Trent
THE BLACK CHARADE Fri 26 June, The Station, Cannock
RIP IT UP Fri 26 June, The Feathers Inn, Lichfield
KIKI DEE & CARMELO
LUGGERI Fri 26 June, The Edge Arts Centre, Much Wenlock, South Shropshire
RANT Fri 26 June, Ludlow Assembly Rooms, South Shrops
MIKE DAVIDS BAND Sat 27 June, Hare & Hounds, Birmingham
ORAL HABIT Sat 27
June, The Sunflower Lounge, Birmingham
LUNA WAVES Sat 27
June, Actress & Bishop, Birmingham
MARTIN TROTMAN Sat 27
June, The Blue Orange Theatre, Birmingham
THE PRINCE EXPERIENCE: ENDORPHINMACHINE Sat 27 June, O2 Academy, Birmingham
THE LUKE COMBS EXPERIENCE Sat 27
June, O2 Academy, Birmingham
SPLIT SECOND Sat 27
June, Jo Jo Jims, Birmingham
THE DIRTY NIL Sat 27
June, Castle & Falcon, Birmingham
THE BLUETONES Sat 27
June, Temperance, Leamington Spa
BOOTLEG ABBA Sat 27
June, The Rhodehouse, Sutton Coldfield
THE RAT PACK LIVE Sat 27 June, Belgrade Theatre, Coventry
VOKA GENTLE Sat 27
June, The Tin At The Coal Vaults, Coventry SUNS OF REST + YOUR IMAGINERY FRIENDS +
BEEBEE BASSEY + RIESS
PINDER Sat 27 June, hmv Empire, Coventry
TV PINS + DAN SEALEY
Sat 27 June, Rother Street Arts, Stratfordupon-Avon
THE KINGCRAWLERS Sat 27 June, Queens Hall, Nuneaton
BLONDISH Sat 27 June, Queens Hall, Nuneaton
HIGH ON ADAMS Sat 27
June, Marrs Bar, Worcester
LLOYD AND ANDERSON Sat 27 June, Huntingdon Hall, Worcester
WOMEN IN ROCK Sat 27
June, Swan Theatre, Worcester
MARTIN STEPHENSON & THE DAINTEES Sat 27
June, West Malvern
Social Club
THE LIZZARDS Sat 27
June, The Valkyrie Bar, Evesham
THE BON JOVI EXPERIENCE Sat 27
June, Walsall Arena & Arts Centre
ROB LAMBERTI PRESENTS PERFECTLY GEORGE Sat 27 June, The Robin, Bilston
THE CLASSIC BLUES SHOW Sat 27 June, Birchmeadow Centre, Broseley, Shropshire COMMUNITY 2026 Sat 27
June, Wolverhampton
Arts Centre
THE FREDDIE & QUEEN EXPERIENCE Sat 27
June, Eleven, Stoke-onTrent
KING KURT Sat 27 June, The Underground, Stoke-on-Trent
GORDON HENDRICKSTHE KINGS VOICE Sat 27
June, King’s Hall, Stoke-On-Trent
UK PINK FLOYD EXPERIENCE Sat 27
June, Lichfield Garrick UNFORGIVEN Sat 27
June, The Feathers Inn, Lichfield
ELO EXPERIENCE Sat 27
June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
HAT’S OFF TO LED ZEPPELIN Sat 27 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
INSPIRAL CARPETS Sat 27 June, The
Buttermarket, Shrewsbury
CALLUM & THE POOKIES
Sat 27 June, Albert’s Shed, Southwater, Telford
LIFE Sun 28 June, Jo Jo Jims, Birmingham
DAN WHITEHOUSE
+DAVID O’BRIEN Sun 28 June, The Glee Club, Birmingham
THE SWAPS + TIM EDEY AND MORE Sun 28 June, Temperance, Leamington Spa
ALISON COTTON Sun 28 June, The Tin At The Coal Vaults, Coventry
JAMES SLATER & MANSFIELD SMITH Sun 28 June, The Red Lion, Evesham
AUDIORAGEAUDIOSLAVE + RATM
TRIBUTE Sun 28 June, The Robin, Bilston
THE LEGEND OF BARRY WHITE Sun 28 June, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre
INSPIRAL CARPETS + TRAMPOLENE Sun 28 June, The Sugarmill, Stoke-on-Trent
TYLAS THE DOGS
D’AMOUR Sun 28 June, Eleven, Stoke-on-Trent
PIRE HILL Sun 28 June, The Artisan Tap, Stokeon-Trent
LLOYD & ANDERSON Sun 28 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
GORDON HENDRICKS IS ELVIS Sun 28 June, The Buttermarket, Shrewsbury
THE FUGITIVES Sun 28 June, Albert’s Shed, Shrewsbury
THE SPOOKY MEN’S CHORALE Mon 29 June, Kitchen Garden, Birmingham
GEORGE THOROGOOD & THE DESTROYERS Mon 29 June, Civic at The Halls Wolverhampton
RUMOURS OF FLEETWOOD MAC Tues 30 June, Symphony Hall, Birmingham
THE SCHIZOPHONICS Tues 30 June, The Tin At The Coal Vaults, Coventry
BEVERLEY KNIGHT Tues 30 June, Civic at The Halls Wolverhampton
Classical Music
PHILIP CROZIER ORGAN RECITAL Mon 22
June, Coventry Cathedral ORCHESTRA OF THE SWAN: 30TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT Featuring David Le Page (artistic director). Programme includes works by Bach, Vivaldi, Grieg & more..., Tues 23 June, Warwick Hall
CALLUM BISSON PIANO RECITAL Tues 23 June, St Alkmund’s Church, Shrewsbury
VICTORIA ULRIKSEN ORGAN RECITAL Tues 23 June, Lichfield Cathedral
ARMONICO CONSORT: HENRY PURCELL’S
KING ARTHUR Featuring Christopher Monks (director), Oz Clarke (narrator), Hannah Frazer Mackenzie, Laura Moretto, William Towers, William Searle & Alex Jones (cast), Wed 24 June, Festival Theatre, Malvern
SHREWSBURY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA:
SUMMER CONCERT Featuring John Moore (conductor) & Alex Postlethwaite (leader). Programme includes works by Fanny Mendelssohn, Shostakovich & Rimsky Korsakov, Wed 24 June, Christ Church, Bayston Hill, Shrewsbury
ARMONICO CONSORT: HENRY PURCELL’S
KING ARTHUR Featuring Christopher Monks (director), Oz Clarke (narrator), Hannah Frazer Mackenzie, Laura Moretto, William Towers, William Searle & Alex Jones (cast), Thurs 25 June, Wyke Manor, Pershore
AMI VOCAL QUARTET Featuring Isabel Clarke (soprano), Alexandra Georgiadis (alto), Matt Friend (tenor) & Matthew Pandya (bass), Fri 26 June, Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
UNIVERSITY OF WARWICK CHAMBER
CHOIR: SUMMER SERENADE Fri 26 June, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry MILKICA RADOVANOVIC ORGAN RECITAL Fri 26 June, St Mary’s Church, Warwick
CBSO: PUCCINI’S TOSCA Featuring Kazuki Yamada (conductor), Anna Patalong (soprano), Gwyn Hughes Jones (tenor), Ross Ramgobin (baritone), Sir Bryn Terfel (bassbaritone), CBSO Youth Chorus & CBSO Children’s Chorus, Sat 27 June, Symphony Hall, Birmingham BIRMINGHAM CHORAL UNION: A SUMMER SERENADE Featuring Colin Baines (conductor) & Darren Hogg (piano & keyboards). Programme includes works by Chilcott, Vaughan Williams, Mealor & more..., Sat 27 June, Selly Oak Methodist Church, Birmingham
THE CHOIR OF ST MARY’S SUMMER CONCERT Featuring Oliver Hancock (director) & Imogen Whitehead (trumpet). Programme includes
works by Walton, Tippett, Handel & more..., Sat 27 June, St Mary’s Church, Warwick
WOLVERHAMPTON SYMPHONY
ORCHESTRA Featuring Peter Morris (conductor) & Ros Rayner (leader). Programme includes works by Shostakovich, Coates & Walton, Sat 27 June, Wolverhampton Grammar School
SHREWSBURY CHORAL: RUTTER’S MAGNIFICAT & MOZART’S REQUIEM Featuring Hilary Cronin (soprano), Bethan Langford (alto), Andrew Henley (tenor), Toby Hall (bass), Richard Robbins (conductor) & Anne Tupling (leader), Sat 27 June, Shrewsbury Abbey
JONATHAN SCOTT ORGAN RECITAL
Programme includes works by Verdi, Handel, Saint-Saëns & Vivaldi, Sat 27 June, St Laurence’s Church, Ludlow, South Shropshire
THE BREWOOD SINGERS: SUMMER SERENADE Featuring The Jackfield Brass Band, Sat 27 June, Jubilee Hall, Brewood, Staffordshire
NORTH STAFFS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: SUMMER FILM CONCERT Featuring Juan Ortuno (conductor).
Programme includes works by Williams, Barry, Borodin & Gershwin, Sat 27 June, St John Fisher Catholic College, Newcastle-under-Lyme
MARCHES CHOIR: FAURÉ’S REQUIEM
Programme also includes Karl Jenkins’ The Peacemakers, Sat 27
June, St John’s Church, Bishops Castle, South Shropshire
LEAMINGTON CHAMBER ORCHESTRA
Featuring Richard Laing (conductor) & Victoria Brawn (oboe). Programme includes works by Wagner, Strauss & Brahms, Sun 28 June, Holy Trinity Church, Leamington Spa
UNIVERSITY OF WARWICK SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA & CHORUS: SUMMER
SYMPHONIC SPECTACULAR Programme includes works by Price, Gershwin & Puccini, Sun 28 June, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry
LUNCHTIME ORGAN CONCERT WITH THOMAS TROTTER: SUMMER REQUESTS Mon 29 June, Birmingham Town Hall
RICHARD LEA ORGAN RECITAL Mon 29 June, Coventry Cathedral
CBSO CENTRE STAGE: AMERICAN BRASS Featuring Elspeth Dutch (horn), Richard Watkin (trombone) & Daniel Trodden (tuba). Programme includes works by Bernstein, Price, C McMichael & Kamen, Tues 30 June, CBSO Centre, Birmingham
JOE LYCETT & FRIENDS Tues 23 June, The Glee Club, Birmingham
Monday 22 - Tuesday 30 June
JONNY COLE Tues 23 June, Theatre On The Steps, Bridgnorth, South Shropshire
SCOTT BENNETT Tues 23 June, Swan Theatre, Worcester
COMEDY CAROUSEL WITH ANDY ROBINSON, ERIC RUSHTON & STEVE GRIBBIN Thurs 25 June, The Glee Club, Birmingham
SCOTT BENNETT Thurs 25 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
FERN BRADY, FIN TAYLOR, HASAN ALHABIB & LAURA SMYTH Thurs 25 June, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry
JONNY COLE Fri 26 June, Lichfield Garrick
JOEL DOMMETT Fri 26 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
STEPHEN BAILEY, JOEY PAGE, ALEX MITCHELL & RYAN MOLD Fri 26 June, The Core Theatre, Solihull
AMY MATTHEWS, DANNY MCLOUGHLIN, ERIC RUSHTON & STEVE GRIBBIN Fri 26Sat 27 June, The Glee Club, B’ham
Theatre
ROCK OF AGES Amateur version of the jukebox musical comedy, Mon 22Sat 27 June, Talisman Theatre & Arts Centre, Kenilworth
MISS SAIGON Boublil & Schönberg’s iconic musical, set during the last days of the Vietnam War, Tues 23Sat 27 June, Birmingham Hippodrome
MEAN GIRLS Award-winning musical comedy starring Steps’ Faye Tozer, Tues 23 - Sat 27 June, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre
CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY Amateur production based on Roald Dahl’s much-loved classic, Tues 23Sat 27 June, Regent Theatre, Stokeon-Trent
RICHARD III Matthew Duckett stars in a version of Shakespeare’s famous history play which takes its inspiration from the gangland world of Peaky Blinders. Richard Cheshire directs, Tues 23 June - Sat 4 July, Stafford Gatehouse Theatre
A DALES WAY The story of three couples who embark on an 80-mile walk from Ilkley in Yorkshire to Bowness on the shores of Lake Windermere, Wed 24 - Fri 26 June,
Wolverhampton Arts Centre
SLEUTH All & Sundry present Anthony Shaffer’s famous play, in which two men engage in a deadly game of catand-mouse, Wed 24 - Sat 27 June, Artrix, Bromsgrove
ROMEO & JULIET Oddsocks present a new take on Shakespeare’s romantic tragedy, Thurs 25 June, Victoria Gardens, Tewkesbury
THE WIZARD OF OZ Youth edition presented by students of ToriArts Studios, Thurs 25 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
THE PRIDE Alexi Kaye Campbell’s play exploring the changing attitudes to sexuality over a 50-year period, Thurs 25 - Sat 27 June, The Lab, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire
GREASE Kidderminster Operatic & Dramatic Youth section present an amateur version of the high-school musical, Thurs 25 - Sat 27 June, The Rose Theatre, Kidderminster
THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS Amateur version of Kenneth Grahame’s riverside tale, Thurs 25 - Sat 27 June, The Bear Pitt Theatre, Stratford-uponAvon
THE ADDAMS FAMILY Youth theatre performance of the iconic kooky musical, Thurs 25 - Sat 27 June, The Benn Hall, Rugby LIFE LEARNINGS OF A NONSENSICAL HUMAN Spoken-word work of theatre exploring the joys and complexities of friendship, queerness and raving, Fri 26 June, Midlands Arts Centre (MAC), Birmingham
POPCORN Amateur version based on Ben Elton’s darkly comic thriller, Sat 27 June - Sat 4 July, The Criterion Theatre, Coventry
ROMEO & JULIET The Duke’s Theatre present ‘a bold reimagining of the greatest love story ever told’, Sun 28 June, Powis Castle, Welshpool, Powys
THE SPY WHO CAME IN FROM THE COLD Ralf Little stars in a stage version of John le Carre’s story of Cold War espionage, deception and moral compromise, Tues 30 June - Sat 4 July, The Alexandra, Birmingham
Kids Theatre
ZOG Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler’s feelgood story for younger audiences, Mon 22 - Wed 24 June, Swan Theatre, Worcester
THE CAT IN THE HAT A ‘first theatre experience’ based on Dr Seuss’ bestselling book, Fri 26 June, Swan Theatre, Worcester
THE PRINCESS PROMS A show paying tribute to songs from animated films, including Frozen, Wicked, Moana, The Wizard Of Oz, The Lion King and more..., Sun 28 June, The Alexandra, Birmingham
thelist
INTO THE WILD AND OVER THE WAVES
Family-friendly adventure presented by Birmingham Hippodrome’s SEN and Drama Youth Theatre, Mon 29Tues 30 June, Patrick Studio, Birmingham Hippodrome
Dance
2FACED DANCE : TOMORROW Tamsin
Fitzgerald’s all-male company explore the future in their trademark no-holds-barred style, Tues 23 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
KAI WIDDRINGTON: EVOLUTION 2026
High-energy show featuring a cast of professional ballroom and Latin dancers, Thurs 25 June, Lichfield Garrick
Light Entertainment
G4: PHANTOMS OF THE POPERA Join Jonathan Ansell, Michael Conway, Mike Christie and Duncan Sandilands for a rollercoaster ride through some of musical theatre’s greatest hits, Mon 22 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
JAY & JOSS An evening with the award-winning illusionists who stunned the judges on Britain’s Got Talent, Tues 23 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
FROM BOND WITH LOVE Actor Tom Roberts hosts ‘an evening of movie magic’, complete with a live band and behind-the-scenes stories, Thurs 25 June, Lichfield Garrick
THE MATRILAUGHY: GIGGLES FOR THE GIRLS, GAYS, AND THEYS A ‘fun, feminist and queer’ night of stand-up comedy, featuring a women-focused line-up, Fri 26 June, The Old Joint Stock Theatre, Birmingham
THE MAGIC ROOM STAGE SHOW An evening of parlour magic and entertainment, hosted by magicians Ed Sumner and Damon Conlan. Live music from Sean Jeffrey also features, Sat 27 June, Fairfield Village Hall, Fairfield, Worcestershire
EARTH WIND & CHOIR Sat 27 June, Halesowen Town Hall
THE RAT PACK LIVE Concert experience celebrating the big band sounds of Sammy Davis Jr, Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, Sat 27 June, The Belgrade Theatre, Coventry
TEA WITH JOYCE GRENFELL Featuring a selection of Joyce’s comedy songs and monologues, Sun 28 June, Lichfield Garrick
DERREN BROWN: ONLY HUMAN LIVE
Brand-new show from the master of mind control and psychological illusion, Tues 30 June - Sat 4 July, Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent
Talks & Spoken Word
ELLA AL-SHAMAHI - BECOMING HUMAN
The host of BBC landmark show
Human talks about ‘our remarkable origin story’, Thurs 25 June, Huntingdon Hall, Worcester
ADRIANA BROWNLEE: LIFE IN THE DEATH
ZONE Join the British mountaineer & adventure athlete as she shares stories from some of the most hostile environments in the world, Fri 26 June, Huntingdon Hall, Worcester
ELLA AL-SHAMAHI - BECOMING HUMAN
The host of BBC landmark show
Human talks about ‘our remarkable origin story’, Fri 26 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
EMMA KENNY’S KILLER COUPLES The psychologist & broadcaster presents a new show exploring the complex psychology of couples who commit the unthinkable, Sun 28 June, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
AN EVENING WITH NIGEL MANSELL CBE
An insight into the life and career of the Formula One racing star, Mon 29 June, Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry
TO MAKE PEOPLE HAPPY John Osbourne presents a poetry show with a difference, Tues 30 June, The Old Town Hall Vaults, St Mary’s Street, Whitchurch, North Shropshire
Events
UNDER 5’S FAMILY FUN DAY This year’s theme is Pirates & Princesses, Wed 24 - Thurs 25 June, Dudley Zoo
MANOR HALL MUSIC AND ARTS
FESTIVAL Evening of music, dance and art from pupils across the Manor Hall Trust, Thurs 25 June, Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Trent
ADVENTURE BIKE RIDER FESTIVAL Three action-packed days of biking action and festival entertainment, Thurs 25Sun 28 June, Ragley Hall, Warwickshire
GUIDED TOUR OF WEOLEY CASTLE
Explore the ruins’ architecture, construction and layout, Fri 26 June, Weoley Castle, Birmingham
COVLITFEST: BEYOND WORDS Featuring local writers and groups, drop-in writing activities for adults and related activities for children, Fri 26 June, Coventry Cathedral
VILLAGE Tour focusing on the Medieval period and the nowdeserted village of Compton Murdak, Fri 26 June, Compton Verney, Warwickshire
UNDER 5S DAY Featuring entertainment specifically designed for children under five years of age, Fri 26 June, Himley Hall, Dudley
Monday 22 - Tuesday 30 June
THE SEASON’S DARKEST SCANDAL - A REGENCY MURDER MYSTERY Fri 26Sat 27 June, Tamworth Castle, Staffordshire
BIRMINGHAM HOSPICE’S DRAGON BOAT RACE Fun event for all the family to help raise funds for Birmingham Hospice, Fri 26 - Sat 27 June, Brindleyplace Canal, Birmingham
HISTORY WEEKEND Three days of talks, drop-in interactive sessions, bespoke tours and special events presented by knowledgeable experts, Fri 26 - Sun 28 June, Sudeley Castle & Gardens, Cheltenham
HUG - MOORLANDS GREEN ARTS
FESTIVAL This year’s festival celebrates water - rivers and streams, springs, ponds and lakes, Sat 27 June, Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek
CRYSTAL MILE WALKING TOUR Explore the history of the iconic glassmaking factories that were once known as the Crystal mile, Sat 27 June, Stourbridge Glass Museum
BURTON PRIDE Featuring live performances by local artists, Sat 27 June, Shobnall Leisure Complex, Burton on Trent
ARMED FORCES DAY Featuring the Royal British Legion, Tamworth Branch, Sat 27 June, Tamworth Castle, Staffordshire
YOUR WORCESTER: GALLERY TOUR Find out about the city, its astonishing history and changing traditions, Sat 27 June, Worcester City Art Gallery & Museum
BELGIAN BEER BASH WITH TRIPELB
Expect drinks, music and food for a summer pub atmosphere, Sat 27 June, Hartlebury Castle, Worcester
SUTTON COLDFIELD DINING CLUB
Featuring award-winning street food and live entertainment, Sat 27 June, Sutton Coldfield Rugby Club
ACCESS TOURS Facilitated by a qualified British Sign Language interpreter for Deaf and hard-ofhearing visitors, Sat 27 June, Black Country Living Museum, Dudley
CINEMA UNDER THE STARS Featuring showings of Walking With Dinosaurs and Jurassic Park - The Lost World, Sat 27 June, Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
BMAP: THE MATERIALITIES MONTAGE
MIXER WITH GARY STEWART Event connecting lived experiences, community memories and visual materials to the Birmingham Media Archive, Sat 27 June, Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
WATCH US LEAD - BSL TOUR Experience
Watch Us Lead through a Deaf perspective in this guided tour led by Chisato Minamimura, Sat 27 June, Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
THE COLD LIGHT OF DAY: THE HAUNTING OF HIMLEY HALL Guided daytime tour featuring chilling tales and stories of
strange histories, Sat 27 June, Himley Hall, Dudley
BIRMINGHAM RUM FESTIVAL Featuring a specially curated cocktail menu and the opportunity to sample blends from a host of rum brands, Sat 27 June, The Cuban Embassy, Moseley, Birmingham
COVENTRY PRIDE Annual event attracting thousands of LGBTQ+ people and allies to the city centre, Sat 27 - Sun 28 June, Coventry
MIDLANDS FIRE & RESCUE SHOW
Featuring live demonstrations of rescues in various scenarios, Sat 27Sun 28 June, Statfold Country Park, Tamworth
SHREWSBURY FOOD FESTIVAL 2026
Featuring hundreds of top-notch food & drinks producers, live music and fun activities for all the family, Sat 27Sun 28 June, Quarry Park, Shrewsbury
STEP BACK TO THE 1940S The British home-front experience, brought to life across the line, Sat 27 - Sun 28 June, Severn Valley Railway, Bewdley, nr Kidderminster
ARMED FORCES WEEKEND Featuring a range of fun interactive family activities, Sat 27 - Sun 28 June, National Memorial Arboretum, Staffordshire
JURASSIC JUNE Discover the fascinating world of dinosaurs, Sat 27 - Sun 28 June, West Midlands Safari Park, Bewdley
FORD NATIONALS Featuring displays of modern, classic and commercial vehicles, Sun 28 June, British Motor Museum, Gaydon
ARMED FORCES DAY Fun for all the family, including a paintball gallery and a vintage military vehicle display, Sun 28 June, Himley Hall, Dudley
DUCK TREASURE HUNT Travel between the three historic stations to find all the mischievous ducks, Sun 28 June, Telford Steam Railway, Shropshire
STOWE VALLEY ARTS FESTIVAL Celebration of the artistic talent of young people from across Warwickshire, Tues 30 June - Wed 1 July, Belgrade Theatre, Coventry
Festivals
TAMWORTH TRIBUTE FESTIVAL 2026
Featuring live performances from 14 of the UK’s top tribute artists, Fri 26Sat 27 June, Tamworth Castle Grounds
UPTON JAZZ FESTIVAL Line-up includes Dixie Mix, Harlem Jazz Orchestra, Bruce Adams & more..., Fri 26 - Sun 28 June, various venues in Uptonupon-Severn, Worcestershire
BLENHEIM PALACE FESTIVAL Line-up includes Katy Perry, Teddy Swims, Pete Tong Ibiza Classics, Sat 27 June - Sat 4 July
WIN! with What’s On...
Win! A pair of tickets to see Richard III in Stafford Starring Netflix’s Matthew Duckett and inspired by the gangland world of Peaky Blinders, Stafford Shakespeare’s new production of Richard III shows at Stafford Gatehouse Theatre from Tuesday 23 June to Saturday 4 July.
What’s On is offering two lucky readers the chance to win two tickets to see the show...
Competition closes Wednesday 17 June
Win! A family ticket to Step Back To The 1940s at Severn Valley Railway
Severn Valley Railway’s Step Back To The 1940s weekends are back this summer, with the British home front experience being brought to life across the line.
What’s On is offering one lucky reader the chance to win a family ticket (2 adults and up to 4 children) to the event on Saturday 4 July.
