Take a look at what's coming up this February at the West End Centre in Aldershot, Ashcroft Arts Centre in Fareham, Forest Arts Centre in New Milton and The Arc in Winchester.
West End Centre
48 Queens Road, Aldershot GU11 3JD
Coming up at the West End Centre in Aldershot this February: a range of comedy, music and half term fun for all the family.
Comedy
Rob Auton: The Rob Auton Show
Saturday 10 February, 7:30pm
£12
Award-winning writer, comedian and actor Rob Auton presents his most autobiographical show to date, 'The Rob Auton Show.' Having written nine hit Edinburgh Festival Fringe comedy/theatre/spoken-word shows on specific themes, Rob turns the pen on himself to explore the memories and feelings that shape his daily life.
.jpg)
Jessica Fostekew: Mettle
Friday 23 February, 7:30pm
£17 full / £15 concession
Catch Jessica Fostekew, star of BBC’s QI and Live at the Apollo, in her brand-new stand-up show, Mettle. A fast-paced journey through passion and purpose, Jess shares hilarious tales of her son joining a cult and her talking cat. With a sold-out Edinburgh Fringe show and previous award-winning performances, Jessica's comedy is a must-see. Join her for a night of laughter and insight at the Forest Arts Centre.
.jpg)
Independent Venue Week
IVW: Big Richard Records Takeover
Friday 2 February, 8:00pm
£7 advance/£9 on the door/£5 young person (16-25)
London-based and Westy-born-and-bred Big Richard Records returns for an Independent Venue Week takeover, bringing the best talents from the big smoke to the West End Centre. Enjoy a slapper of a night with a stellar line-up featuring Brìe's freshly cut lactose punk, Funhaus' whistle-blowing post-punk, Kipper Gillespie's sardonic lyrics and the garage/psyche/punk rock duo, Oral Habit. Don't miss this night of raucous musical mayhem.
Public Address: Nigel Wearne + Simeon Hammond Dallas + The Long Shorts
Saturday 3 February, 8:00pm
£12 advance/£14 on the door/£5 young person (14-25)
Public Address nights at the West End Centre are back, and this February, we present a incredible line-up for you. Don't miss this night of eclectic sounds and captivating storytelling.
Music
The Finn Collinson Band
Friday 9 February, 8:00pm
£12 advance/£14 on the door
Experience the enchanting fusion of baroque and modern-day folk as The Finn Collinson Band takes the Westy stage. Comprising three leading virtuosos of English folk, they will showcase new material and favourites from their critically-acclaimed studio albums, The Threshold (2022) and Call To Mind (2019). Finn's distinctive sound, drawing on elements of early music, features traditional dance tunes, melodies by Purcell and Van Eyck, and striking new arrangements. Described as having "both the chops and the vision to take his music in many directions" (RNR), Finn Collinson is a leading exponent of the recorder.
Matt Deighton and Izzie Yardley
Saturday 17 February, 8:00pm
£18/£5 young person (aged 14-25)
Embark on an unforgettable evening featuring Matt Deighton and Izzie Yardley.
You may recognize Matt Deighton from his time fronting Acid Jazz heroes Mother Earth; you may remember him as Paul Weller’s guitarist in the late 90’s, or Noel Gallagher’s recommendation for who should replace him when he quit the European tour in 2000. Or maybe you don’t. For almost two decades, the man they keep calling the natural successor to Nick Drake, Davey Graham and John Martyn has been himself more of a rumour – a murmur among musicians, songwriters and diehard music lovers who proudly display his rare vinyl releases like trophies.
Rooted in British songwriting traditions of the 60s/70s coffee house scene, Izzie’s songs tell stories woven into musically rich pieces, which nod to a childhood spent listening to classical, jazz, Nick Drake and Kate Bush.
Half term
Mini Artists: Love Bugs
Tuesday 13 February, 10:30 am-12:30 pm
Tickets: £14 per child
An exciting crafting activity awaits kids during February half-term! Join the Love Bugs art activity for children aged 5+, led by experienced tutor Amanda Buchan. Amanda, an art enthusiast with a deep passion for drawing and painting, brings creativity to life, offering a fun and educational experience for young artists.
Dance in a Day
Wednesday 14 February, 10:30am-3:30pm
£30 per child
Join the fun at our Dance in a Day half-term workshop at the West End Centre! Suitable for ages 8+, this creative experience offers the chance to learn new dance routines, make friends and collaborate on creating a dance in just one day. Guided by experienced dance tutor Natalie Watson, a freelance contemporary dance artist based in Hampshire, participants will showcase their creations in a small performance at the end of the day.
Children's Concert: Max's Garden Adventure
Wednesday 14 February, 11:00am
£5 per person / Children under 2 years free
Join the delightful Children's Concert by 5Ts Brass, perfect for preschool and primary-aged children. Experience interesting tunes and exciting sounds, including the first public performance of 'Max's Garden Adventure,' the charming story of a little dog with a big personality. Narrated alongside music, the tale unfolds as Max encounters various animals in his garden, each with its own distinctive tune. The 5Ts Brass Quintet, a dedicated group with five years of musical camaraderie, presents this educational and interactive performance with plenty of good music for children. Join in the grand finale with provided percussion instruments!
Family art workshops
Wednesday 14 February, 1 pm-3 pm
£14 per session (price is for 1 child with 1 adult accompanying)
Embark on a creative journey at the Family art aorkshop, where artist James Alfred Hart will guide you in making magical brushes with natural materials found in the surrounding countryside. Explore the world of color and reactions through a fun and collaborative workshop suitable for children aged 3 and above. Children will learn the joy of creating together on one large piece while finding their individual voice in small paintings. James Alfred Hart, a painter influenced by color and memory, brings his expertise to facilitate this interactive session, fostering creativity in each participant.
More information about the West End Centre and the programme of events and activities are available here.
Forest Arts Centre
Old Milton Road, New Milton, BH25 6DS
Take a look what's coming up at Forest Arts Centre in new Milton this February, promising an array of entertainment for audiences of all ages.
Comedy
Forest Arts Comedy Club
Thursday 22 February, 7:30pm
£12
Join us for a monthly night of laughter featuring hand-picked comedians from the UK circuit at the Forest Arts Comedy Club. The lineup includes Joe Wells, known for his surprising and thought-provoking material on politics, mental health and being autistic, along with Paul Mccaffrey from Live at The Apollo and tour support for Sean Lock and Kevin Bridges. Don't miss this hilarious evening with other talented comedians such as Stephen Catling, Brian Ingram and Neil Long.
Workshops
Flamenco Guitar Workshops with Uri
Saturday 10 February, 10am-11am
£7.50 (includes a free hot drink)
Join Uri, lead guitarist and musical director with Mi Flamenco company, for special workshops on Saturday 10 February. Whether you're a beginner with no guitar experience or have a basic knowledge of the guitar, Uri, with over 20 years of teaching and performing experience, will guide you through the intricacies, technique and tricks of flamenco guitar.
The first session from 10am to 11am is a Flamenco guitar taster for those with no guitar experience and there's an optional relaxed meet-up in the bar area at 11am for all students.
_4.jpg)
Theatre
It is I, Seagull
Friday 16 February, 2:00pm
£14
Experience 'It is I, Seagull,' an unbearably truthful, painfully funny and exquisitely beautiful performance inspired by the stories of Valentina Tereshkova (the first woman in space) and Valentina Ponomaryova (almost the first woman in space). This hilarious and brutally honest exploration of self-esteem, joy, failure, opera and space travel also delves into mental health in the arts, women's safety and beauty standards. Seagull masterfully combines comedy and opera to challenge and expose the exploitation often faced by women.
_4.jpg)
Art presented by New Forest Players
Wednesday 28 February - Saturday 2 March, 7:30pm
£13
Please be aware this production contains strong language.
Are you who you think you are, or are you who your friends think you are? Serge has bought a modern work of art for a large sum of money. Marc hates the painting and cannot believe that his long-standing friend could possibly do such a thing. Yvan attempts, unsuccessfully, to placate both sides with hilarious consequences.
_2.jpg)
Half term
Dress to express!
Saturday 10 February 2024, 10:00am-12:00pm
Free
Join us for a FREE, fun session aimed at encouraging playing with materials and creating costumes or pieces that represent their personality for Children's Mental Health Week. For ages 5+.
Play is the best way for children to learn and communicate. Through play, children figure out how to interact with one another, problem-solve, make decisions, collaborate and work together as a team.
The Wizard of Oz: Dance Workshop for Families
Tuesday 13 February, 1pm-2pm
£6/£8 (including the film)
We are off to meet the Wizard! The wonderful Wizard of Oz! Enjoy a fun dance-off suitable for all the family as we dance down the yellow brick road. Suitable for anyone 5+, children 6 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
%20(Instagram%20Post%20(Square))%20(Banner%20(Landscape)).jpg)
Creative Camps: Play in a Day
Thursday 15 February, 10:00am-3:00pm
£30
Mystery, magic, imagination and buckets of fun await as we delve into the magic of storytelling in this drama workshop day. Explore characters and create your own original ones, using a range of drama activities and skills to make your very own original story around the theme of adventure and exploring! For ages 6-13.
.jpg)
More information about Forest Arts Centre and the programme of events and activities are available below.
Ashcroft Arts Centre
Osborn Road, Fareham PO16 7DX
Coming up in February at Hampshire Cultural Trust’s Ashcroft Arts Centre in Fareham is a range of half term and 'Galentine's Day' activities, as well as music, theatre and a festival of food and comedy.
Festival of Food and Comedy
Saturday 3 February, 2:30pm
£20 Advance / £25 OTD
Join us for a day-long festival of food and comedy, with mouth-watering local food stalls, inspiring cheese pairing sessions and headline comedian George Egg, the infamous anarchist cook whose live crazy cooking shows promise to have you in stitches.
.jpg)
Galentine's Day
Textiles
Tuesday 13 February, 1:00pm
From £27
Romantic partners aren’t the only ones that are need recognition – our friends also bring so much love and value to our lives, so why not celebrate your friendship and come along to this special textiles workshop.
You will make your own textile gift either for yourself or to gift to a friend.
_0.jpg)
Floral jewellery
Tuesday 13 February, 7:00pm
From £40.50
Romantic partners aren’t the only ones that are need recognition – our friends also bring so much love and value to our lives, so why not celebrate your friendship and come along to this special floral jewellery workshop.
You will make your own floral jewellery in this fun and informal workshop led by Evelyn Waters.
_0.jpg)
Music
Ashcroft Presents: Nigel Wearne + Simeon Hammond Dallas + Roy Peplow
Friday 2 February, 7:30pm
£7 advance / £10 on the door / £5 young person (14-25)
Our monthly "Ashcroft Presents" showcase welcomes local favourites, up-and-coming artists and special guests. Discover a wealth of talent on your doorstep. Try out new music, unearth local gems and expand your playlist with our varied quality selection of live music each month
Half term
Dance in a Day
Monday 12 February, 10:00am
£25
Dance in a day is a fun and exciting way to learn street dance, create routines and work together to put on a show at the end of the day. This is a great way to create new friends, have fun and perform in front of friends and family. We have one day to work together to create a fun performance. Are you up for the challenge?
Children's textiles
Tuesday 13 February, 10:00am
£25
Come along to this fun and creative spring-themed textile workshop. Children will have the opportunity to explore texture and colour with a variety of textile art techniques and materials to express their creativity.
_1.jpg)
Stage combat
Tuesday 13 February, 10am-12pm for ages 6-11 years and 1pm- 3pm for ages 12- 16 years
£15 per child
Combat workshop focuses on teaching participants the basic but often-used techniques of hand-to-hand combat utilised on stage and screen. Participants will learn individual techniques to performing phrases of choreography that will challenge them to move the fight throughout the space, whilst making each move work for the audience and maintaining a spatial awareness as well as an awareness of their partner's safety.
This workshop is for all abilities and physicality's, no experience is required.
Theatre
Shelf: Teenage Men
Friday 16 February, 7:30pm
£14
Suitable for ages 14+
It's time to stop being teenage boys and start being teenage men. This new show from the 'easy to fall in love with' (Scotsman) double-act features anecdotes, songs, jokes about performing for kids, the Instagram algorithm, confronting your toxicity, and more. As seen on BBC3 and ITVX.
.jpg)
More information about the Ashcroft Arts Centre and the programme of events and activities are available here.
The Arc
Jewry Street, Winchester, SO23 8SB
Coming up in February at Hampshire Cultural Trust’s The Arc in Winchester is Primary School assembly tunes like you've never heard them before, bear inspired theatre for children and some cracking comedians.
Exhibitions
SHOES: Inside Out
Until Wednesday 6 March, during venue opening times
Free
SHOES: Inside Out is an exhibition featuring footwear from our past, dating as far back as 11 AD to the present. Through the themes of work, protect, play, empower, transform, identify and aspire, a highlight selection of 70 pairs of shoes from our collections, explore how shoes have shaped, and have been shaped by, society. From Georgian high society shoes to 1970s platforms and current high-end designer heels to everyday boots there is a shoe to fit all interests.
Music
Primary School Assembly Bangers
Saturday 17 February, 19:30pm
£14 advance / £16 on the door
Join James for an evening of pure nostalgia, stepping back in time for some joyous singalong tunes to take you back to your Primary School days.
You won’t have to sit cross legged on the school hall floor, but you will be encouraged to sing along! As well as the assembly bangers, there will be other musical surprises, throwback mashups and comic reflections on growing up in the 90s.
.jpg)
Acoustic Café
Friday 2 February, 7:30pm
Free (please book in advance as spaces are limited)
Join us for a relaxing evening in The Arc Café showcasing acoustic music from multiple, local up and coming artists.
The Sharon Shannon Trio
Thursday 15 February, 7:30pm
£20 advance / £22 on the door
Irish President Michael D Higgins called her ‘A National Treasure’ and after 20 of her own albums, countless DVDS, filmed concerts, musical collaborations and a career that has spanned 40 years, Sharon Shannon in 2023 is still breaking new musical ground.
Playing shows throughout her career from The Kennedy Centre in Washington to London's Wembley Arena, Sharon continues to redefine and reimagine the boundaries of Irish traditional music, mixing with genres as different from each other as reggae and classical.
Keith James - The music of Yusuf - Cat Stevens
Wednesday 28 February, 7:30pm
£20
This concert will give you far more than just the music itself... There is a huge amount of insight into the history and the spirit of Cat Stevens; his early pop career, his illness that changed him existentially and spiritually into an incredibly thoughtful and loving singer songwriter; such that his songs are remembered instantly for their uplifting sense of vision, truth and human fragility.
.jpg)
Children
Can bears ski?
Sunday 25 February 2024
£9 / £32 family ticket
Join Little Bear and Dad Bear as they learn how there are many ways to communicate love, and to find your place in the world.
With a set inspired by Polly Dunbarʼs stunning illustrations, puppetry and music, Pied Piper Theatre Company are delighted to be working with Paula Garfield and Deafinitely Theatre to bring this beautiful story to the stage.
.jpg)
Comedy
Barnstormers Comedy
Friday 16 February
£12.50 advance / £14 on the door
Our regular comedy night at The Arc, Barnstormers Comedy presents a line-up of three top acts from the London comedy circuit and beyond: many of them Comedy Store regulars.
As ever, MC Kevin Precious will also be on hand to oversee the proceeds. It's the perfect tonic to end the working week!
Jessica Fostekew: Mettle
Saturday 24 February, 7:30pm
£17 full / £15 concession
Catch Jessica Fostekew, star of BBC’s QI and Live at the Apollo, in her brand-new stand-up show, Mettle. A fast-paced journey through passion and purpose, Jess shares hilarious tales of her son joining a cult and her talking cat. With a sold-out Edinburgh Fringe show and previous award-winning performances, Jessica's comedy is a must-see. Join her for a night of laughter and insight at the The Arc.
.jpg)
Ania Magliano: I can't believe you've done this
Thursday 29 February, 7:30pm
£14
To the hairdresser at [redacted] Salon: You can take my money. You can take my dignity. You can take too much off the ends. But you cannot take my right to talk about it on stage. This is a show about the worst haircut of Ania Magliano's life.
Winner of Best New Show at Leicester Comedy Festival 2022, Ania sold-out both runs of her critically acclaimed shows at the 2022 and 2023 Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Her second show 'I Can't Believe You've Done This' was ranked #1 in Time Out's The 11 best comedy shows at Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2023 list.
Ania has previously supported Marc Maron, Cat Cohen and Ed Gamble on tour, and writes for Amelia Dimoldenberg's Chicken Shop Date.
.jpg)
Digilab
Using free Google organisation and office tools on all devices
Thursday 22 February, 10:00am-11:30am
Free
Suitable for ages 16+
Join our introductory workshop and discover the power of FREE Google Organization and Office Tools – a seamless solution that works on all your devices! From Gmail to Google Drive and beyond, discover how to organise, collaborate and communicate effortlessly.
.png)
More information about The Arc and the full programme of events and activities are available here.
