Topic: January 2015

One-Off and Off Beat

THE EVENTS CALENDAR across our green and pleasant land is rife with eccentricity and tradition. It’s a classic British combination. hundreds of local fairs, festivals and competitions have evolved over the centuries commemorating historic events, geographic features and regional passions. Many have grown to become more than local happenings, and attract enthusiastic spectators and participants from across Britain and the globe. Here is an eclectic collection of great experiences not to overlook.

First nights, First sights and First-evers

SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE - “COMEDY, LOVE AND A BIT WITH A DOG. That’s what the public wants,” announces struggling 16th-century impresario Philip Henslowe. They don’t want poor old Will Shakespeare’s new play Romeo and Ethel the Pirate’s Daughter. I’ve had my eye on the stage version of Tom Stoppard’s hit movie Shakespeare in Love since I heard it was coming, and rarely have I enjoyed such an exhilarating night at the theatre. Or, indeed, such an entertaining dog.