The Best Events You Mustn't Miss This April
New comedy shows, must-see gigs and Living North LIVE is back!
Hoppy Shopping
Head to Rigg & Furrow this Easter to browse a thoughtfully-curated selection of stalls showcasing the work of talented makers from around the North East and beyond. Pair your shopping with a snack from a local street food vendor in the taproom and a hoppy pale ale and that sounds like a good weekend to us.
Easter Market
29TH & 30TH MARCH
Rigg & Furrow,
Morpeth
foragelifestyle.com
Pulling Strings
Newcastle Puppetry Festival returns for a fifth time this spring at indoor and outdoor venues across the city. Various shows, workshops, talks and films will be taking place across nine days, including free events and ticketed shows. Don’t miss Beasts on the Street, Puppet Valley, Puppetry on the Green and the City of Kittiwakes Parade.
Newcastle Puppetry Festival
30TH MARCH–7TH APRIL
Newcastle
movingpartsarts.com
This Means War
Leeds’ Royal Armouries are once again bringing live-action jousting to the heart of Yorkshire to entertain families this Easter. Teams from the UK, France and Italy will compete for trophies in this live sporting event from medieval times.
International Jousting Tournament
29TH MARCH–1ST APRIL
Royal Armouries, Leeds
royalarmouries.org
Beary Good
If you go down in the woods today, you’re sure of a big surprise. Each day Mammy, Daddy and Baby Bear head into the woods to collect interesting things to re-use in their home. But things go topsy-turvy when someone tries to sit in their chairs, eat their porridge and sleep in their beds. Bring your bears for this family-friendly show with original music and puppets from Kitchen Zoo.
The Three Bears
2ND APRIL
Alnwick Playhouse
01665 660550
alnwickplayhouse.co.uk
A Family Affair
Following their hugely popular productions of Gangsta Granny, Billionaire Boy and Demon Dentist, Birmingham Stage Company are proud to present a new production of David Walliams’ Awful Aunty! When Stella sets off to London, she has no idea her life is in danger! She wakes up three months later and only her Aunt Alberta can tell her what has happened – and she's a truly awful auntie! Soon enough Stella will be facing the fight of her life.
David Walliams' Awful Aunty
4TH–7TH APRIL
Sunderland Empire
atgtickets.com
A Rare Sort of Bear
If you loved the award-winning 2014 film Paddington, or you’re yet to see it, why not treat your eyes and ears by watching this film accompanied by a live orchestra? Experience the much-loved film as you’ve never seen it before! The perfect treat for all the family and boasting an all-star cast including Hugh Bonneville, Julie Walters and Nicole Kidman, Paddington is perfect for family viewing this Easter.
Paddington in Concert
3RD APRIL
Oval Hall, Sheffield City Hall
sheffieldcityhall.co.uk
If There’s Any Justice
Multi-platinum selling artist Lemar is back and he’s kickstarting his new tour at The Glasshouse International Centre for Music, performing his chart-topping hits and tracks from his latest album Page in My Heart. Don’t miss it.
Lemar
5TH APRIL
The Glasshouse International Centre for Music, Gateshead
0191 443 4661
theglasshouseicm.org
6TH APRIL
City Varieties Music Hall, Leeds
leedsheritagetheatres.com
Perfectly Imperfect
In this two-hour, hands-on session you’ll turn broken pieces into one-of-a-kind works of art. Kintsugi, which translates to ‘golden joinery’, is the art of repairing broken ceramics with lacquer mixed with powdered gold, silver or platinum – embracing the cracks, rather than hiding them. Bring your own broken ceramic and mend its fractures, no experience needed.
Kintsugi Ceramic Workshop
6TH APRIL
Raby, Staindrop
raby.co.uk
Go Potty
This spring Sheffield Ceramics Festival is celebrating its 10th anniversary by once again showcasing leading and up-and-coming potters and ceramic artists from Sheffield and beyond at Kelham Island Museum.
Sheffield Ceramics Festival
6TH & 7TH APRIL
Kelham Island Museum, Sheffield
sheffieldceramicsfestival.com
Slow and Steady Wins the Race
No one thinks he stands a chance but when the Hare gets distracted by games and treats, the Tortoise might just be onto a winner. This is the perfect introduction to live ballet and music for your children.
Tortoise & The Hare
11TH & 12TH APRIL
Northern Stage, Newcastle
0191 230 5151
northernstage.co.uk
Read All About It
Award-winning Huddersfield Literature Festival is back this spring, where visitors can meet both emerging writers and artists alongside huge names. This year the festival is headlined by Simon Armitage. The Poet Laureate will give a poetry reading followed by a performance with his band LYR at the Lawrence Batley Theatre – don’t miss it!
Huddersfield Literature Festival
11TH–28TH APRIL
Huddersfield
huddlitfest.org.uk
Horsing Around
Can’t make it to Aintree? Don’t worry Newcastle Racecourse is bringing Aintree to you! Whilst guests will still enjoy the thrill of jumps racing live on the track, you can also keep up with all the action from the Grand National on their TV screens.
Grand National Raceday
13TH APRIL
Newcastle Racecourse
0191 236 2020
newcastle-racecourse.co.uk
Feel Proud
British soul singer Heather Small (the voice of M People) is performing at Durham Cathedral this April. What better place to see her perform live?
Heather Small
13TH APRIL
Durham
Cathedral
durhamcathedral.co.uk
Artful
An impressive group of artists are taking part in this year’s York Open Studios including science teacher turned jeweller Hannah Weston, mixed media artist Lenka Pavuk, and Hannah Arnup who handmakes stoneware pottery. Don’t miss this chance to visit various studios across the city to find your new favourite artist.
York Open Studios
13TH–14TH & 20TH–21ST APRIL
York
yorkopenstudios.co.uk
Fancy a Pint?
The Pub Landlord is heading to Sunderland to make sense of the questions you probably already have the answers to in his usual witty way. Go with an open mind and don’t take it too seriously.
Al Murray: Guv Island
14TH APRIL
Sunderland
Empire
atgtickets.com
Are You Game?
Gamers rejoice and head to The Dome to see the first major international touring exhibition exploring the history and culture of video games. Game On takes a global perspective on gaming’s past and future with more than 150 playable arcade, console, and handheld games and some of the latest developments in video games.
Game On
UNTIL 14TH APRIL
The Dome, Doncaster
dclt.co.uk
Made For You
YSP and Yorkshire Artspace have collaborated to showcase work by 17 talented creatives in YSP Centre, from ceramics to silversmithing, including Chris Boland, Jennie Gill, Helena Russell and Hanne Westegaard. All of the work on display will be for sale.
Yorkshire Artspace: Maker Showcase
FROM 15TH APRIL
Yorkshire Sculpture Park, West Bretton
01924 832631
ysp.org.uk
They Never Miss a Beat
Having entertained us for almost two decades (yes, really) the Kaiser Chiefs come to Stockton armed with a back catalogue of successful songs as well as their new studio album. We Predict a Riot.
Kaiser Chiefs
16TH APRIL
Stockton
Globe
stocktonglobe.co.uk
Spellbinding
A must-see, award-winning musical, Wicked imagines the lives of L. Frank Baum’s legendary characters from The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and what shapes the destinies of Glinda The Good and the Wicked Witch of the West. Don’t miss it when the show flies into Bradford this spring.
Wicked
16TH APRIL–19TH MAY
The Alhambra Theatre, Bradford
01274 432000
bradford-theatres.co.uk
Life & Legacy
Author and comedian Marc Burrows is taking you on a journey through the life and work of Sir Terry Pratchett – his influences, impact, wit and wisdom – as we celebrate the 40th anniversary of Discworld.
The Magic of Terry Pratchett
17TH APRIL
Queen’s Hall Arts Centre, Hexham
01434 652477
queenshall.co.uk
Totally Devine
East after her UK headline tour to spend a year writing and recording, and between album sessions she’s been back on the road supporting Years & Years. Now fans can’t wait to hear her new set.
L Devine
17TH APRIL
Wylam Brewery, Newcastle
wylambrewery.co.uk
18TH APRIL
Hyde Park Book Club, Leeds
hydeparkbookclub.co.uk
Spring Has Sprung
We’re so excited that Living North LIVE is back for 2024! The North East’s leading homes, gardens, shopping, food and lifestyle event promises stylish shopping, live demonstrations, talks and tastings, as we bring you inspiring ideas for your home and garden, great gifts, delicious food and unique accessories that you won’t find anywhere else. Find all the important details at here.
Living North LIVE
19TH–21ST APRIL
Newcastle Racecourse
0191 261 8944
livingnorth.com
Join In
Whilst he’s known for co-hosting the podcast Off Menu and the panel show Hypothetical, you might actually know him as the bold man who choose to hide in the Taskmaster house on Celebrity Hunted. Yes, really. Now hilarious comedian James Acaster has written a new show – but hecklers are free to ruin it, if they’re brave enough.
James Acaster: Hecklers Welcome
22ND–25TH APRIL
Lyceum, Sheffield
0114 249 6000
sheffieldtheatres.co.uk
Movie Magic
Six Chick Flicks (…or a Legally Blonde Pretty Woman Dirty Danced on the Beaches whilst writing a Notebook on the Titanic) is a hilarious send up of half a dozen favourite chick flicks and has been described as ‘gloriously funny, whip-smart movie magic’. In an evening full of laughs, two performers bring to life all the iconic moments from these beloved films, with biting wit, fast and fun montages, dance breaks, original songs and improvised moments that make every show a new experience. Click here to be in with a chance of winning a pair of tickets for this show at a local venue.
Six Chick Flicks
19TH APRIL
Cast Doncaster
castindoncaster.com
23RD APRIL
Harrogate Theatre
harrogate
theatre.co.uk
16TH MAY
City Varieties Music Hall, Leeds
leedsheritagetheatres.com
24TH APRIL
Hipp @ The Hullabaloo, Darlington
01325 405405
darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk
25TH APRIL
Northern Stage, Newcastle
0191 230 5151
northernstage.co.uk
Blooming Brilliant
For a full day of garden inspiration, mark your calendar for the upcoming Harrogate Spring Flower Show where guests can explore stunning floral art installations, get expert tips from seasoned gardeners, and simply be inspired, whether you’re green-fingered or a total beginner to gardening. Book your tickets before Tuesday 9th April to enjoy a £3 discount per ticket!
Harrogate Spring Flower Show
25TH–28TH APRIL
Great Yorkshire Showground
flowershow.org.uk
Island Life
BAFTA-winning comedian and the voice of Love Island Iain Stirling is bringing his razor-sharp humour back on tour with a new stand-up show. It’s his biggest tour to date so don’t miss it!
Iain Stirling: Relevant
26TH APRIL
Tyne Theatre and Opera House, Newcastle
0844 249 1000
tynetheatreandoperahouse.uk
28TH APRIL
Grand Opera House York
atgtickets.com
Read All About It
Hexham Book Festival is back in its traditional spring slot and taking over the town of Hexham for 10 days. Expect big discussions, talented writers and inspiring poetry. Founded in 2006, this festival has welcomed thousands of people to its events, and you won’t want to miss this year’s lineup featuring farmer’s wife Helen Rebanks and The Essex Serpent author Sarah Perry.
Hexham Book Festival
26th APRIL–5th MAY
Hexham
hexhambookfestival.co.uk
Being Frank
Following his sell-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe and a stint in London’s West End, laugh-out-loud legend Frank Skinner is back with a new show, 30 Years of Dirt, packed with classic one-liners and hilarious stories.
Frank Skinner: 30 Years of Dirt
27TH APRIL
Quarry, Leeds Playhouse
leedsplayhouse.org.uk
Criminally Good
Lord Arthur Savile is engaged to Sybil Merton. His palm has been read and he’s been told he will commit a murder. Wanting a peaceful married life, he decides he must get the murder over with first – but attempt after attempt fails. Then news comes that the chiromantist (palm reader) is a charlatan. Free from his woes, the carriage awaits to take him to the wedding rehearsal – but it contains a bomb… Don’t miss this show written by Constance Cox, from the book by Oscar Wilde.
Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime
29TH APRIL–4TH MAY
Tynemouth Priory Theatre
0191 292 9292
tynemouthpriorytheatre.co.uk
Family Fun
The Snooks Trail is an exciting new sculpture trail in York in collaboration with charity partner St. Leonard’s Hospice, leading families through the city’s cobbled streets and hidden gardens. There are various Snooks (creatures with their heads buried in a book) scattered throughout the city which have been brought to life by talented artists inspired by the world of literature. The Snooks have been created by Sian Ellis, a Yorkshire-based illustrator and mural artist. See how many you can spot!
Snooks, York’s Character Trail
THROGUHOUT APRIL
York
visityork.org
Money, Money, Money
Based on her hit BBC show, The Syndicate is a new stage play by the late Yorkshire legend Kay Mellor. Starring The Wanted’s Max George and Coronation Street’s Brooke Vincent, The Syndicate follows five supermarket employees whose lottery syndicate numbers come in, just as their jobs and livelihoods are under threat – and it’s being directed by Kay’s daughter and fellow Yorkshire legend Gaynor Faye. You mustn’t miss out on Kay Mellor’s final stage play.
Kay Mellor’s The Syndicate
18TH–28TH APRIL
Leeds Grand Theatre
leedsheritagetheatres.com
7TH–11TH MAY
Newcastle Theatre Royal
0191 232 7010
Theatreroyal.co.uk
For The Love of The Land
This Diverse Landscape, a new exhibition at Inspired by... gallery, reflects how different artists respond to and interpret our diverse landscapes from the moors to coast. Exhibiting artists include Paula Dunn (mixed media), Cath Brooke (print), Alison Waters (sculpture) and Shirley Hudson (acrylic).
This Diverse Landscape
18TH MAY–14TH JULY
Inspired by... gallery, Danby
northyorkmoors.org.uk
Miners’ Memories
A new year-long exhibition and programme of events has launched at the National Coal Mining Museum making the 40th anniversary of the Miners’ Strike. This free exhibition considers the strike through memories and stories of miners and their families shared through a public call-out and their own existing collection.
84/85: The Longest Year
UNTIL NEXT YEAR
National Coal Mining Museum, Wakefield
01924 848806
ncm.org.uk/84-85
