The Best Ways to See Out January in the North East and Yorkshire
From hilarious shows to celebrating National Lego Day, there’s plenty to get involved in this weekend
Watch Out
Back for its 44th year this January, the RSPB national Big Garden Birdwatch gives an important insight into how our country’s garden birds are faring. It’s a chance for all of us to get involved and count the number of birds that visit our garden, helping the RSPB get a snapshot of how they are doing. This year’s event takes place from 27th–29th January and you are being asked to spend just one hour watching and recording the birds visiting your garden, balcony or local park before sending the results to the RSPB. Here’s everything you need to know.
Fly on a Magic Carpet
The award-winning Northallerton Variety Company are back with Aladdin at The Forum, Northallerton on Friday and Saturday. Packed with adventure, Aladdin tries to outwit Abanazar. With everything we know and love about this classic panto, you’ll laugh at the antics of Wishee Washee and Widow Twankey as they cause chaos – will the local police be able to keep them in order? We doubt it! The whole family will love this show.
Play Time
Join The Bowes Museum in celebrating National Lego Day (28th January) as they host a day of full of fun with bird (inspired by the RSPB Big Bird Watch) and Lego-themed activities, including LEGO WeDo Robotics. The whole family are invited to take part.
Have a Laugh
As seen on Channel 4’s Along for the Ride with David O’Doherty, 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown and BBC’s Live at the Apollo, David is always a good laugh. In his shows at Leeds’ City Varieties Music Hall on Saturday and Sunday expect songs on a glued together plastic keyboard from 1986 and tales that’ll make you laugh.
Take Pride
From the West End and at Newcastle Theatre Royal until Saturday, don’t miss Pride & Prejudice* (*sort of) – a unique and hilarious retelling of Jane Austen’s most iconic love story. Expect pop classics including Young Hearts Run Free, Will You Love Me Tomorrow and You’re So Vain, and prepare to laugh out loud at this irreverent show – there’s a reason it won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Comedy.
Eat Up
Durham Restaurant Week takes place from Saturday until 4th February – with restaurants, cafés and bars taking part. There’s great deals, and tables available to book at some of our favourites including Barrio Comida (three tacos and a cocktail for £15), The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse (three courses for £20) and Tin of Sardines with deals for gin-lovers – but book now so you don’t miss out.
Be Inspired
A touring exhibition from The Sainsbury Centre collection by acclaimed sculptor Henry Moore is coming to Barnsley’s Cooper Gallery on 28th January. West Yorkshire-born Henry was known for pioneering a new vision for modern sculpture but his work also includes carvings, drawings, prints and designed textiles and tapestries. More than 31 pieces will be on display for this touring exhibition, including drawings from his time as an Official War Artist.
