Shake off the festive fog with some of the best new year events in Hertfordshire
City Winterscapes
Until February
St Albans
The St Albans community arts project that champions local talents’ work has launched its City Winterscapes exhibition. The winter-timed exhibition will complement the hugely successful ‘City Summerscapes’ and includes ten chosen pieces including the artists’ statement, being displayed on A1 size foamex weatherproof boards on parklets in the City Centre.
The BFG In Pictures
7-27 January
St Albans Cathedral
This January, St Albans Cathedral are very excited to be hosting The BFG in Pictures, a touring exhibition from House of Illustration, curated by Quentin Blake. The much-loved story of orphan Sophie and her giant friend has touched hearts across the world. A story of dream-catching and friendship, the work has won international acclaim and has remained in print ever since its publication in 1982. This exhibition contains 40 reproductions of Blake’s illustrations and will include both the artist’s initial drawings and the final drawings which were used in the book.
Stevenage Wedding Fair
9 January
Hotel Cromwell
This wedding fair offers a wonderful opportunity to meet leading exhibitors from the local area and beyond, and to discuss your wedding plans and ideas in a relaxed informal atmosphere. There is professional fashion held throughout the day on their signature catwalk featuring some of the very latest bridal gowns, bridesmaid outfits and menswear, together with an array of live entertainment.
Abbey At Night
26 January
St Albans Cathedral
As darkness descends, huddle around and meet the characters – both monks and pilgrims – to whom this great abbey was home. See, hear, feel and even smell the inspiring tales these men and women have to tell. Upon entrance to the building, expect clouds of incense, the sounds of monk’s music, and the hustle and bustle of a lively medieval abbey.
After Electra
28 January-5 February
Abbey Theatre
Virgie, an eccentric free spirit of the 1960s, invites her family and friends to a birthday celebration. There she drops a bombshell that forces everyone to deal with the complexities of self-determination, the sacrifices demanded by motherhood and the cruel nature of the ageing process. Will her loved ones go along with her plans or will the secrets that come to light lead to a new beginning?
The Bob Dylan Story
29 January
Watford Palace Theatre
The new season at Watford Palace Theatre looks like one to remember. A highlight to look forward to later in the year is a staging of Abigail’s Party (opening in March), but in January The Bob Dylan Story is a stand out. Combining Dylan’s hit songs from across the 60s with visual imagery and storytelling, this show celebrates a musical genius whose work has inspired generations of artists.
