subject: Entertainment Breaks: Top Shows To Catch Outside Of London [print this page] If youre looking to escape the capital this winter and fancy being entertained at the same time, why not combine a weekend city break with a gig, theatre performance or comedy show?
Sheffield is a great place to start, with a whole host of entertainment on offer this season, from pop concerts to comedy and pantomime. Over at The Crucible Theatre at the end of November, catch The Rise And Fall Of Little Voice; Jim Cartwright directs an all-star cast including Ray Quinn and Beverley Callard, in this comedy drama about a woman who absorbs herself in some old records and in doing so, discovers a hidden talent.
If you have little ones in tow dont miss Cinderella, also at The Crucible Theatre throughout December. Damian Williams stars in this traditional family pantomime, which combines a fairytale with dancing, singing and magical illusions. Forthcoming gig highlights at the Leadmill in November include Lawson on 1st ideal for those who love their pop-rock and indie pop, and Mystery Jets, who will be playing their signature indie-rock and post-punk to promote their album, Radlands.
Leeds is gearing up for some festive fun, and you wont want to miss Oliver at the Leeds Grand Theatre & Opera House. Fresh from its record-breaking run in the West End, this well-loved British musical is now touring the country and hits the city from November 6th to December 8th
Part of Stockeld Parks Christmas Adventure Season, the pantomime Dick Whittington is perfect to get you in the Christmas spirit. There are two shows each day on November 24th and 25th. And if you like a bit of a laugh, catch Chris Moyles Live at the O2 Academy Leeds, until November 21st.
Over in Nottingham, one of next months musical highlights is Rufus Wainwright & His Band; dont miss this one-night-only concert at Nottingham Royal Concert Hall on November 20th, and catch acclaimed singer-songwriter Wainwright performing songs from his back catalogue and his latest album, Out of the Game.
Also at the Royal Concert Hall on December 6th, catch Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, on his supremely popular annual tour. The tour will showcase Jools famous Big Band sound, and joining him on stage in Nottingham will be Fine Young Cannibals frontman Roland Gift, along with Ruby Turner, Louise Marshall and trombonist Rico Rodriguez.
Over at the Nottingham Playhouse, kids will love Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood, which runs from November 30th till January 2013. This pantomime treat features the evil Sheriff of Nottingham, who has hatched a plan to dispose of his niece and nephew in Sherwood Forest so he can stake a claim on their fortune. Can Robin Hood save the day and win Maid Marians heart? Oh yes he can!
John Steinbecks gripping masterpiece Of Mice and Men also takes to the stage in Nottingham next month the story of two outsiders in search of the American Dream is a powerful performance that should not be missed. At Nottingham Playhouse from November 2nd to 17th.
As you can see, theres a lot to enjoy in our cities this winter, no matter what your age or taste. But first things first you need a base for your break. Cheap hotels are easy to come by (stick to room only for the lowest prices), and include Jurys Inn Sheffield which has rooms from just 50.23, Nottingham Gateway which is close to Nottingham Playhouse and Nottingham Royal Concert Hall and has rooms from 44.63, and Novotel Leeds which is centrally located and offers rooms from 49.
If you have a slightly healthier budget, other hotels worth a mention include the four star Mercure Sheffield St Pauls Hotel and Spa (from 64 on a room only basis), Crowne Plaza Nottingham which is steps from the landmark Theatre Royal (rooms from 68), and Queens Hotel Leeds, which is centrally located so youre not far from the action (rooms from 62).
