From classic drama to death-defying thrills, there’s plenty to enjoy
1. Stage
Su Pollard: Still Fully Charged, Spa Centre, Leamington, March 22. Celebrate Su’s 50 years in show business in a one-woman variety show packed with songs, stories and much-loved characters, from her early auditions through to her acclaimed musical theatre appearances and TV stardom. Call 01926 334418 or visit warwickdc.gov.uk/royalspacentre to book. Photo: contributed
2. Music
Polly Paulusma, Temperance, Bath Street, Leamington, March 14. Signed to Bjork's record label One Little Independent, the Cambridge-born artist's music has been described by Rolling Stone magazine as "enchanting, understated, intelligent folk-pop" whilst MOJO called her songs "complete, pure and personal". Her show will feature songs from her new album Wildfires, which blends folk instrumentation with spoken-word poetry prologues amid sounds from caves and rivers. Paulusma has toured the world supporting Bob Dylan, Jamie Cullum, The Divine Comedy and Marianne Faithfull. Visit pollypaulusma.com/tour to book. Photo: Lina Jusevičiūtė
3. Theatre
Restoration season: Playhouse Creatures and The Country Wife, The Dream Factory, Warwick, March 20 to 29. Playbox Theatre is celebrating Restoration theatre, presenting two striking plays. Playhouse Creatures by April De Angelis explores the behind-the-scenes world of the first actresses to take to the English stage—women who defied convention and scandalised society to claim their place in history. Meanwhile, William Wycherley's The Country Wife, one of the most infamous comedies of its time, was banned for nearly 200 years due to its provocative plot. Full of deception, disguise and outrageous sexual intrigue, Wycherley’s play remains as entertaining as ever. Restoration theatre (1660–1710) was an era of sumptuous spectacle, razor-sharp wit and daring social commentary. The plays will be performed in a uniquely evocative setting - a ‘theatre of memory’ that recalls the grandeur of Restoration playhouses long since lost. Candlelit chandeliers, exquisite period designs and a rich visual world conjure the dazzling playhouses of the past. Expect lavish Restoration costumes, elaborate wigs and opulent fashions, evoking a world of excess, beauty and theatricality. Visit playboxtheatre.com to book. Photo: Lucy Barriball