THE GUIDE TO YOUR WEEK
Whether you’re looking for nights out with your mates, the best days out with the family, or simply fancy flying solo with a workout at the gym – discover our pick of some of the best events taking place in and around Surrey this week…
THE RED SHOES / FEBRUARY 4 – 8 / NEW VICTORIA, WOKING
Matthew Bourne’s emphatic production of The Red Shoesreturns to Woking’s New Victoria Theatre this month. A tale of obsession, possession, and one girl’s dream to be the best dancer in the world, expect a night of outstanding performances set to the romantic score of golden age Hollywood composer Bernard Herrmann.
For more information, visit www.atgtickets.com
GODALMING GAG HOUSE COMEDY CLUB / FEBRUARY 7 / BOROUGH HALL, GODALMING
In need of some happy time this February? Cheer yourself up and head for Godalming’s Borough Hall for the latest instalment of the Gag House. Featuring funny folk Carey Marx, Alistair Barrie, Abi Roberts and Ben Robson, book yourself a seat and get set to giggle.
For more information, visit www.guildfordfringe.com
MADAMA BUTTERFLY / FEBRUARY 7 / G LIVE, GUILDFORD
For one night only, catch award-winning producer Ellen Kent’s stylish production of Puccini’s classic opera Madama Butterfly at Guildford’s G Live this month. Starring international Korean soprano Elena Dee as Cio Cio San, as well as a full chorus and orchestra, get set for an epic tale of heartbreak and tragedy that inspired the West End Musical Miss Saigon.
For more information, visit www.glive.co.uk
THE COMEDY CELLAR / FEBRUARY 7, 14, 21 + 28 / SOUTH HILL PARK ARTS CENTRE, BRACKNELL
Warm your cockles and get your kicks at the Comedy Cellar, found at the South Hill Arts Centre in Bracknell this month. Having provided audiences with giggles a-plenty since 1986, The Comedy Cellar is the longest-running comedy club in the UK outside London. Regularly packed to the rafters with those keen to catch the next big thing in comedy, queuing starts at 7.30 pm, doors open at 8 pm and the show kicks off at 8.30 pm. First come, first served.
For more information, visit www.southhillpark.org.uk
WATTS TOTS: TEXTURES / FEBRUARY 7 / WATTS GALLERY ARTISTS’ VILLAGE
For creative toddlers under the age of 5, pop along to Watts Gallery Artists’ Village on the outskirts of Guildford for a fun-filled morning of arts and crafts. Discover different textures, shapes and colours before creating a beautiful collage inspired by nature.
For more information, visit www.wattsgallery.org.uk
SATURDAY SCIENCE CLUB: ROVING ROBOTS / FEBRUARY 8 / BROOKLANDS MUSEUM, WEYBRIDGE
For inquisitive kids keen on electronics, head for this awesome Saturday Science Club held at Brooklands Museum. Learn how to build your very own robotic vehicle using line-detecting technology. Suitable for 10 – 16 year-olds.
For more information, visit www.brooklandsmuseum.com
BIG FISH, LITTLE FISH FAMILY RAVE / FEBRUARY 8 / FARNHAM MALTINGS
Turn up the volume at this family-friendlyrave. Presented by dons of the dancefloor, Big Fish Little Fish, DJs Baker andBeale will be selecting the very finest in hip hop, drum ‘n’ bass, acid house and techno tracks for your tots to throw mad shapes to. Enjoy glitter galore, as well as a variety of themed activities suitable for ages 0-8.
For more information, visit www.farnhammaltings.com
MARBLING PAPER / FEBRUARY 8 / THE LIGHTBOX, WOKING
Fancy a morning marbling? Using natural earth pigments that are sprinkled into water and applied with the help of special brushes, discover the Turkish art from Ebru at this arts and crafts workshop held at The Lightbox in Woking. Create stunning decorative papers to hang in your home and find your new favourite hobby.
For more information, visit www.thelightbox.org.uk
BONNETS, BUSTLES AND TOP HATS / EVERY SATURDAY / WINDSOR CASTLE
Taking place every Saturday throughout February, as well as during half term week, visit Windsor Castle and be immersed in the flamboyant world of Victorian fashion. Try on costumes or make fashion accessories fit for a King and Queen.
For more information, visit www.rct.uk
BOTANICAL TILE CASTING WORKSHOP / FEBRUARY 8 / WATTLE & DAUB, GODALMING
Learn something new this month and head for the inspirational interior specialists Wattle & Daub and their Botanical Tile Casting Workshop. Using seasonal dried foliage, learn the tips and tricks required for making two unique and decorative 3D plaster tiles cast from clay moulds. Meet fellow arts and crafts enthusiasts, and sup on a glass of fizz, peppermint tea or coffee, before taking home your prized tiles.
For more information, visit www.wattleanddaubehome.co.uk
MACBETH / FEBRUARY 8 – 29 / HOLY TRINITY CHURCH, GUILDFORD
As a bloody war draws to its conclusion, the celebrated warrior Macbeth and his ambitious wife are propelled head-first into a chilling quest for ultimate power, fuelled by supernatural forces beyond their control. The war may be over, but the battle for the throne has only just begun… ‘Blood will have blood, they say’. Don’t miss Guildford Shakespeare Company’s brand new adaptation of Shakespeare’s supercharged thriller in Guildford this February.
For more information, visit www.guildford-shakespeare-company.co.uk
FOREST BATHING / FEBRUARY 8 / WINKWORTH ARBORETUM, GODALMING
Originating from Japan, slow down and become one with nature with a spot of forest bathing in the gloriously wooded environs of Winkworth Arboretum, found on the outskirts of Godalming. Take a deep breath and take some time for yourself with a unique morning amidst nature. Booking is essential.
For more information, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk
DORNEY LAKE WINTER HALF MARATHON / FEBRUARY 8 / DORNEY LAKE, ETON
Give your legs a stretch and take on this winter half-marathon, taking place at the scenic setting of Dorney Lake in Eton. Completely free of any traffic, why not try and set a new personal best for yourself by running this flat course as fast as possible?
For more information, visit www.f3events.co.uk
SURREY SCORCHERS VS LEICESTER RIDERS / FEBRUARY 8 / SURREY SPORTS PARK, GUILDFORD
With Scorchers enjoying a league position in the top half of the BBL standings, make a noise and cheer on your local basketball team at the Surrey Sports Park this February. Taking on the Leicester Riders, can Scorchers keep up their recent hot streak?
For more information, visit www.surreyscorchers.co.uk
LUCKY DIP DISCO / FEBRUARY 9 / THE RIVERHOUSE BARN ARTS CENTRE, WALTON
Dance the day away with this Lucky Dip Disco taking place at the Riverhouse Barn Arts Centre. Fun for the whole family, practice your very best moves before taking to the floor to disco dance to an eclectic soundtrack from the 1920s to the 2010s. Pre-booking is essential to avoid disappointment. Suitable for under 7-year-olds
For more information, visit www.riverhousebarn.co.uk
LEARN TO SKI / FEBRUARY 9 + 23 / SANDOWN SPORTS, ESHER
Booked your first skiing holiday and haven’t got a scooby-doo what to do once you get there? Take part in these two-hour adult skiing classes for beginners, held at Sandown Sports in Esher, and get prepared for a week or two on the pistesafe in the knowledge that you’ll at least know how to stop without becoming a snowball on the side of a mountain. Taking place on selected dates in February, get set to hit the slopes with confidence this season.
For more information, visit www.sandownsports.co.uk
PALLET UPCYCLING – MAKE A CHAIR TO TAKEAWAY / FEBRUARY 10 / THE GREAT BRITISH WOODSHOP, WEST BYFLEET
Wondering what to do with those leftover pallets? Need some new furniture? In the name of reusing, recycling and repurposing, sign up to this one-day course and learn how to make a chair to take away with you at the end of the day. As seen on the Discovery Channel, meet the woodworking wonders of The Great British Wood Shop and learn how to create your very own piece of furniture.
For more information, visit www.greatbritishwoodshop.co.uk
GOD OF CARNAGE / FEBRUARY 10 – 15 / ROSE THEATRE, KINGSTON
Downton Abbey favourite Elizabeth McGovern stars in this ruthlessly hilarious observation of middle-class parenting. When Ferdinand and Bruno get into playground fisticuffs, their parents meet to discuss a potential remedy. Cue flowing vino, diminished sensibilities – and the adults reverting into an excellent example of the spoiled brats they’re so keen for their kids not to become.
For more information, visit www.rosetheatrekingston.org
BLOOD BROTHERS / FEBRUARY 11 – 15 / RICHMOND THEATRE
Written by Willy Russell, the legendary musical Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences. Bill Kenwright’s production surpassed 10,000 performances in London’s West End, one of only three musicals ever to achieve that milestone. Catch an extended run of performances at Richmond Theatre this month.
For more information, visit www.atgtickets.com
GRIFF RHYS JONES: ALL OVER THE PLACE / FEBRUARY 11 / FARNHAM MALTINGS
Heading here, there and everywhere, comedy legend Griff Rhys Jones makes a pit stop at Farnham Maltings for a night of amusing musings. From the pains of celebrity to encounters with the great, the good and the royal, listen to Griff recount real-life anecdotes from his distinguished career in comedy.
For more information, visit www.farnhammaltings.com
THE DOORS: BREAK ON THROUGH / FEBRUARY 12 / EVERYMAN CINEMA, ESHER
Break on through to the other side and head for the Everyman Cinema in Esher to celebrate and honour the Doors’ co-founder and keyboardist Ray Manzarek on what would have been his birthday. Watch rare footage of one of the ‘60s most iconic bands and sit back for a night of rock ‘n’ roll.
For more information, visit www.everymancinema.com
KICKBOXING TASTER SESSION / FEBRUARY 12, 19 + 26 / PRECISION KICKBOXING, CAMBERLEY
Looking for a new way to get fit and make friends? Try something new and take part in these free Kickboxing taster sessions taking place in Camberley. With World Kickboxing Champion Master Paul Bernard as your guide you’ll find a great way to stay in shape, while learning how to increase your confidence at the same time.
For more information, visit www.precision-lifestyle.com
BOYZLIFE / FEBRUARY 13 / G LIVE, GUILDFORD
Two of Ireland’s favourite boy bands join forces for an evening of unbridled noughties nostalgia. We say, two boy bands – it is in fact one member from each faction, as you’re treated to an evening with Westlife’s Brian McFadden and Boyzone’s Keith Duffy, who will take you on a pop-tastic tour of the bands’ greatest hits.
For more information, visit www.glive.co.uk
100% SIMON BRODKIN /FEBRUARY 13 / CAMBERLEY THEATRE
Known for his character Lee Nelson, as well as his high profile pranks and stunts on Theresa May, Sepp Blatter, Donald Trump and Kanye West, stand-up comic Simon Brodkin arrives in Camberley with his funniest creation yet…himself.
For more information, visit www.camberleytheatre.co.uk
WOODLAND FEAST OVER FIRE / FEBRUARY 13 / THE SALT BOX, PRIORY FARM ESTATE, NUTFIELD
For an alternative to dining out in the town’s latest eateries, head for the woods of Priory Farm and join wild food specialists The Salt Box for a woodland feast cooked over the fire in the great outdoors. Meet fellow intrepid foodies, whilst sampling the very best in local and seasonal produce.
For more information, visit www.wearethesaltbox.co.uk
VEGAN VALENTINE’S SUPPER / FEBRUARY 13 / THE EPSOM SUPPER CLUB
Let sumptuous plates of plant-based foodstuffs set your heart aflutter as you take a seat at this Vegan Valentine’s Supper, courtesy of the Epsom Supper Club. Whether you’re pairing with your partner or in search of your foodie soul mate, book yourself a seat and sample an alternative way to dine.
For more information, visit www.howtocookgoodfood.co.uk
LOVE BIRD EMBROIDERY / FEBRUARY 14 / RHS GARDEN, WISLEY
Show your significant other how much they mean to you by heading for this day’s workshop at Wisley and learn how to create a cute Scandinavian-inspired lovebird design through the art of embroidery.
For more information, visit www.rhs.org.uk
JANETTE MASON PRESENTS THE MUSIC OF ELLA FITGERALD FEATURING VIMALA ROWE / FEBRUARY 14 / ELECTRIC THEATRE, GUILDFORD
Experience the tenderness and heartfelt expression of Ella Fitzgerald’s love songs with a romantic evening at the Electric Theatre this Valentine’s Day. Join world-class pianist Janette Mason and acclaimed singer Vimala Rowe as they set the scene for a sensuous night of smooth jazz.
For more information, visit www.electric.theatre
OKLAHOMA! / FEBRUARY 14 – 22 / YVONNE ARNAUD THEATRE, GUILDFORD
‘O-o-o-o-ok-lahoma, where the wind comes sweepin’ down the plains’. The classic musical written by Rodgers and Hammerstein arrives at the Yvonne Arnaud this month, promising a whirlwind of excitement and sing-a-longs. Head out West and join a cast of cowboys, farmers and their girls for a rip-roaring night at the theatre.
For more information, visit www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk
THINKING DRINKERS – HEROES OF HOOCH / FEBRUARY 14 / EPSOM PLAYHOUSE
The Thinking Drinkers are back on tour with their latest liquid musings about the humble alcoholic beverage. Taking an intoxicating look at some of history’s most significant drinkers, learn how pioneers, explorers and politicians have utilized their liquor to the betterment (and detriment) of their careers. A hilarious night out, with five free drinks for attendees to enjoy and sup on..
For more information, visit www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk
ROYAL ARTILLERY GOLD CUP DAY / FEBRUARY 14 / SANDOWN PARK, ESHER
One of Sandown’s oldest and most prestigious race days, catch a card of seven races with a military twist. First featured back in 1878, the competition has been a mainstay in the fixture calendar since 1921 and features horses that are either serving or have previously served in the Royal Artillery.
For more information, visit www.thejockeyclub.co.uk
PRELOVED VINTAGE KILO SALE / FEBRUARY 15 / GUILDFORD CATHEDRAL
Bargains galore are in-store at Vintage Kilo, held at Guildford Cathedral this month. Thrift-seekers are urged to join the weighvolution and pick up a kilo of vintage threads for just £15 at this unique vintage clothing event. Find some unique items for your wardrobe as you delve through six tons of vintage and retro clothing.
For more information, visit www.prelovedkilo.eventbrite.co.uk
CONCORDE CHAMPAGNE DAY / FEBRUARY 15 / BROOKLANDS MUSEUM, WEYBRIDGE
Live the high life and make your way to Brooklands for a Concorde Champagne Day. Sip Champagne during your virtual flight, and enjoy a three-courselunch recreated from an original Concorde menu.
For more information, visit www.brooklandsmuseum.com
BRUNCH & BUBBLES / FEBRUARY 15 + 16 / DENBIES WINE ESTATE, DORKING
Brunch and bubbles… is there the need to write any more to inform you of the benefits that attending such an event will bring to your life? In case you’re curious Brunch and Bubbles, held at the award-winning Denbies Estate, will provide the opportunity to sample a mouthwatering Surrey Hills Full English Breakfast accompanied by a glass of fizz. Once your feasting is complete, enjoy a sparkling wine tour of the estate and sample 3 of Denbies Sparkling Wines in the cellar.
For more information, visit www.denbies.co.uk
BETFAIR ASCOT CHASE RACEDAY / FEBRUARY 15 / ASCOT RACECOURSE
Enjoy a day at the races and get ready for one of the most important Jumps fixtures on Ascot’s racing calendar. One of the season’s most prestigious competitions, the competitive race-card provides horses with the perfect opportunity to prepare and hone their horsepower in time for the Cheltenham Festival.
For more information, visit www.ascot.co.uk