Opening Night: Opera North’s Rigoletto. Leeds Grand Theatre

Giuseppe Verdi’s deformed court jester Rigoletto was transformed last night in central Leeds - and as a consequence, will become Opera North’s latest heavy-weight success. This tale of a father’s desperation to protect his daughter, has been masterfully re-worked by British-Nigerian theatre artist Femi Elufowoju jr, who makes his opera directing debut with Verdi’s interpretation …

The Small Painting Show. Watermark Gallery, Harrogate

The team at Harrogate’s Watermark Gallery launch their inaugural Small Painting Show on 28th January, with an exhibition bringing together 21 of the UK’s most exciting contemporary artists – for something a little bit different. Low Sun at Whitby Running until 19th February, the exhibition offers a unique opportunity to purchase paintings by artists including …

Review: Manchester Collective ‘Heavy Metal’. The White Hotel, Salford

After what can only be described as a terrific year for the Manchester Collective people, they bring 2021 to a close with their ‘Heavy Metal’ tour – which through December has already received rave reviews in London, Leeds and Bristol. The penultimate show in the run saw the Collective – and friends, deliver a culturally …

‘Not Lonely This Christmas’ – Walking away from loneliness and social isolation.

Many of us are counting down the December days until Father Christmas starts his epic global journey – and others are currently sporting tasteful festive jumpers. Some of us might have already photocopied our derrière at the office party, but that’s not how it is over the Christmas break for everyone. Christmas can be a …

Sussi Louise Smith. Seachanger – Wave Weaver. Poetry Collection launch

In addition to December 1st being the date that many of us will be opening the first door on our Advent Calendar, it’s also a key moment in the poetry world, as Ilkley-based poet, artist, writer, helper – and all-round special person, Sussi Louise Smith gifts ‘Seachanger - Wave Weaver’ to the world. Seachanger is …

RHS Harlow Carr: ‘Glow 2021’ Preview evening

One of Yorkshire’s most magical events on the pre-Christmas calendar kicked-off last night, with a special preview evening – and without a doubt – the team behind ‘Glow 2021’ at RHS Harlow Carr, have surpassed themselves this year! Along with Harlow Carr, the eagerly anticipated winter illuminations return once more to RHS Gardens Wisley, Hyde …

North Pennines AONB Stargazing Festival 2021

Something very special is on show 365 days a year within the North Pennines AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), but it reaches a crescendo this October and November, with the fifth North Pennines Stargazing Festival. While the beauty and majesty of The Lakes and The Dales is a given, there is something breathtakingly authentic …

Michele Bianco: Artist Profile Watermark Gallery, Harrogate

There are a number of exquisite pieces of work at Watermark that instinctively make you want to reach out and touch – although you probably shouldn’t. Key among them are the natural-world inspired forms of Inverness-based Ceramicist Michele Bianco. In collaboration with fellow artist and friend, Pascale Rentsch, Bianco will take centre stage at the …

Review: Road. Northern Stage

‘Road’ was Farnworth-born, Jim Cartwright’s first play – written during a time of much social tension – and first performed back in 1986 at The Royal Court Theatre Upstairs. The play shines a brutally honest light on the microcosm of an unnamed road in Northern England. A road that might well have existed at the …

Review: hang. Alphabetti Theatre, Newcastle

I’m embarrassed – but it’s necessary to open with a confession: Prior to my visit to Alphabetti Theatre last night to see the acclaimed ‘hang’ (lack of a capital letter isn’t an error), written by Debbie Tucker Green, I wasn’t aware of this amazing venue, doing superb work, right in the heart of Newcastle upon …