March in Oxfordshire brings a delightful blend of intellectual exploration and entertainment. The city of Oxford hosts the 27th Oxford Literary Festival, a vibrant platform for voices from various domains to engage in discussions on pressing global issues. Meanwhile, rock legends 10cc are set to take the stage on their “Ultimate Ultimate Greatest Hits Tour,” promising a night of timeless music. For Pink Floyd enthusiasts, Atom Heart Floyd will perform their tribute show at Witney Corn Exchange. Fashion aficionados can indulge in “Icons of British Fashion” at Blenheim Palace, showcasing bespoke designs and creations from renowned names.
Here’s a glimpse of what’s in store across Oxfordshire this March:
Sterosonics
Saturday 09 March 2024
Fat Lils, 64 Corn Street, Witney, OX28 6BS
On Saturday, 9 March, music lovers in Witney are in for an electrifying treat as Sterosonics, the UK’s number one tribute to Stereophonics, takes the stage at Fat Lils. Prepare to be blown away by their uncanny soundalike qualities and an unforgettable performance that pays homage to the brilliant Welsh rock band.
For fans of Stereophonics, this is a night not to be missed. Sterosonics will be belting out all the hits and classics that have made Stereophonics a household name. From anthems that have rocked stadiums to soulful ballads that have tugged at our heartstrings, Sterosonics will capture the essence of Stereophonics’ music with remarkable precision.
So, mark your calendars for 9 March and head down to Fat Lils for a night of rock ‘n’ roll that will transport you back to the heyday of Stereophonics. Get ready to sing along, dance, and relive the music that has left an indelible mark on the British rock scene.
For information and tickets, please click here
Caroline Quentin – The Plot So Far
Saturday 09 March 2024
Oxford Playhouse, Beaumont Street, Oxford
The Oxford Playhouse welcomes the beloved British comedy icon, Caroline Quentin, for an evening of horticultural hilarity and heart-warming tales of tending the soil. In an event inspired by her delightful new book, “Drawn To The Garden,” Caroline invites you to join her on a journey celebrating the therapeutic power of gardening and the simple joys of connecting with the earth.
Caroline Quentin’s illustrious career in British comedy has seen her take on lead roles in iconic shows like the award-winning sitcom “Men Behaving Badly” and the enigmatic crime drama “Jonathan Creek.” She’s also known for her sparkling performance in series 18 of the BBC’s “Strictly Come Dancing.” However, on this special evening, Caroline will share her passion for plants, vegetables, and the wonderful world of gardening.
In her unmistakable style, Caroline will regale the audience with hilarious anecdotes of her gardening adventures, from baffling failures to unplanned successes and the delightful accidents that often occur when nurturing a garden. Her stories, shared with presenter Maria McErlane, promise to entertain and inspire.
Expect an evening filled with laughter, possibly some dancing, and a whole lot of showing off—of the green, blooming variety! Caroline Quentin’s engaging tales will remind us all of the joys and quirks of gardening, proving that, much like life, it’s a beautiful journey filled with surprises.
For information and tickets, please click here
Titanic The Musical
Sunday 10 March 2024
The Theatre Chipping Norton, 2 Spring St, Chipping Norton OX7 5NL
“Titanic The Musical” graces the stage of The Theatre Chipping Norton on Sunday, 10 March 2024. Winner of five prestigious Tony Awards, including Best Musical, this remarkable production invites you to delve into the hopes and dreams of the diverse passengers who boarded the Titanic.
As the curtain rises, you’ll be transported back to an era of opulence, where passengers from all walks of life, each carrying their own unique stories and personal ambitions, come together. Unbeknownst to them, their lives are on a collision course with destiny, and the fate of the Titanic hangs in the balance.
Among the passengers are Third Class immigrants, dreaming of a brighter future in America, and Second Class passengers, envisioning lives of luxury and prestige. Meanwhile, the millionaire Barons of the First Class anticipate legacies that will endure for generations to come.
This captivating production, with its poignant storytelling and unforgettable musical score, pays tribute to the triumphs and tragedies of one of history’s most iconic events. It offers a glimpse into the hearts and minds of those aboard the ill-fated ship, where dreams, love, and aspirations meet the unforgiving iceberg that would forever alter their course.
“Titanic The Musical” promises to be an unforgettable theatrical masterpiece, reminding us all of the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity.
For information and tickets, please click here
The Hound of The Baskervilles
Thursday 14 March 2024
The Mill Arts Centre, Spiceball Park Road, Banbury, OX16 5QE
Honalee Media Ltd present “The Hound of the Baskervilles.” Live on stage and in person, two renowned stars of stage and screen, COLIN BAKER (known for his role as Doctor Who and The Brothers) and TERRY MOLLOY (famous as Mike Tucker in The Archers for 40 years), join forces this spring to bring to life the iconic detectives SHERLOCK HOLMES & DOCTOR WATSON.
This thrilling stage adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s masterwork celebrates the 120th anniversary of the most famous Holmes tale and has been extended by popular demand. The legend of the Hound of the Baskervilles has plagued the Baskerville family for generations, particularly the ill-fated Sir Charles Baskerville, who met a mysterious and ominous end. Dr. Mortimer turns to the brilliant Sherlock Holmes and his loyal companion, Dr. Watson, in a desperate bid to save the last of the Baskerville line, Sir Henry, from a similar fate.
However, the supernatural appears to be far from 221B Baker Street once Holmes and Watson set foot in the isolated Baskerville Hall. Reality and myth blur as they confront death, doom, and the malevolent force that haunts Dartmoor. Who is the enigmatic butler lurking in the shadows? Whose mysterious lantern pierces the darkness? And what diabolical apparition prowls Dartmoor with murderous intent?
With Colin Baker’s masterful portrayal of Sherlock Holmes, Terry Molloy’s impeccable rendition of Dr. Watson, and Dee Sadler’s remarkable performance, “The Hound of the Baskervilles” promises a riveting and immersive theatre experience. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness these esteemed actors live at your local theatre. The play has garnered acclaim, with reviewers praising the electrifying interplay between Baker and Molloy, making it an unmissable theatrical event.
For information and tickets, please click here
10cc Live
Friday 22 March 2024
New Theatre Oxford, 24-26 George St, Oxford
Prepare for a night of pure musical magic as the iconic art pop and soft rock legends 10cc, grace the stage of the New Theatre Oxford on Friday, 22 March 2024. Celebrating 50 years since their debut album, 10cc embarks on “The Ultimate Ultimate Greatest Hits Tour,” promising a memorable evening filled with timeless classics and new surprises. Renowned for their impeccable songcraft and innovative sound, 10cc has remained a beloved fixture in the music world. Critics and fans alike continue to sing their praises, with the Daily Telegraph declaring them “note perfect” and the Arts Desk emphasising that their songbook, filled with fun, love, and social commentary, remains as relevant as ever.
With over 15 million albums sold in the UK and an impressive roster of hits, including chart-toppers like “Rubber Bullets,” “Dreadlock Holiday,” and the iconic “I’m Not In Love,” 10cc’s music has left an indelible mark on the music landscape. From the enchanting melodies of “Donna” to the satirical brilliance of “The Wall Street Shuffle,” their catalogue is a testament to their musical genius. Joining them on this extraordinary journey is special guest Paul Canning, adding even more excitement to what promises to be an unforgettable night of live music. Don’t miss your chance to witness legends in action and relive the soundtrack of an era at the New Theatre Oxford with 10cc!
For information and tickets, please click here
TESS – Ockham’s Razor
Tuesday 26 March 2024
Oxford Playhouse, Beaumont Street, Oxford
The Oxford Playhouse is set to host a ground-breaking adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s timeless novel, “Tess of the d’Urbervilles.” This innovative performance, titled “TESS,” brings together the eloquence of Hardy’s words and the breath-taking physicality of circus arts to deliver a powerful narrative of power, loss, and endurance.
The stage is transformed into a canvas where an ensemble of performers masterfully wields wooden planks, scales shifting walls, and navigates ropes and swathes of linen. Against a backdrop of projections, they conjure the vast landscapes and inner worlds of Hardy’s Wessex. It’s a visual and narrative spectacle that blurs the lines between traditional storytelling and the immersive world of contemporary circus.
Beyond its visual splendour, “TESS” delves into themes that continue to resonate in our times, including the complexities of female relationships, sexual desire, consent, privilege, and poverty. This adaptation captures the beauty, heartbreak, and yearning of Hardy’s novel while highlighting the indomitable spirit of its heroine, Tess, in a way that aligns with the author’s original intent.
Produced by Ockham’s Razor in collaboration with Turtle Key Arts, “TESS” has already garnered critical acclaim for its physically thrilling and beautifully human performances. As described by The Sunday Times and The Times, it promises to be a blend of storytelling, acrobatics, and theatre that will leave audiences both moved and spellbound.
For information and tickets, please click here
Icons of British Fashion
Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1UL
Saturday 23rd March – Sunday 30th June 2024
From Saturday, 23 March to Sunday 30 June 2024, the iconic Blenheim Palace in Woodstock, Oxfordshire, will transform into a vibrant tapestry of style, as it proudly presents its most ambitious exhibition to date: “Icons of British Fashion.” This exclusive event promises a journey through the world of British fashion, from its illustrious past to the cutting-edge designs of today.
Prepare to be captivated as you traverse the magnificent Blenheim Palace, where each room along your visitor route pays homage to a British fashion icon. Your fashion odyssey begins in the resplendent Great Hall, setting the stage for the sartorial wonders to come. As you journey through this historic setting, you’ll be treated to a visually stunning fashion exhibition unlike any other.
“Icons of British Fashion” boasts a stellar line-up of world-class designers, fashion houses, and labels, showcasing bespoke designs and loans from some of the biggest names in the fashion world. Confirmed luminaries include legendary names like Barbour, Jean Muir, Stella McCartney, and Vivienne Westwood, among others. This exhibition seamlessly weaves together clothing, accessories, archival materials, drawings, photography, and patterns, all harmoniously integrated with Blenheim’s priceless collections.
For Blenheim Palace, this exhibition is a tribute to its rich history in British fashion. Over the years, the palace has been a stage for fashion shows, glamorous photoshoots, and high-society catwalks, often attended by royalty. Against this backdrop of elegance and opulence, “Icons of British Fashion” celebrates the enduring impact of British fashion on the global stage. It’s a reminder of the UK’s incredible creativity and innovation within the fashion industry.
For information and tickets, please click here
Soundbite UK Presents: Atom Heart Floyd
Saturday 23 March 2024
Witney Corn Exchange, Market Square, Witney OX28 6AB
On Saturday, 23 March 2024, prepare for a sonic journey through the ages as Atom Heart Floyd, the UK’s premier Pink Floyd tribute band, takes centre stage at the Witney Corn Exchange.
Feel the pulse of Pink Floyd’s iconic sound as it’s brought back to life by the incredible musicianship of Atom Heart Floyd. From the soul-stirring “Comfortably Numb” to the evocative strains of “Wish You Were Here,” this talented ensemble will transport you back to the heyday of one of the greatest rock bands in history.
Atom Heart Floyd isn’t just a tribute band; they’re a true spectacle. With every note, they recreate the magic and capture the atmosphere of Pink Floyd’s legendary live performances. Whether you’re a dedicated Pink Floyd fan or new to their legendary sound, Atom Heart Floyd promises to deliver an evening of musical excellence and pure entertainment. Join your fellow fans and sing along to your favourite hits, experiencing the nostalgia of Pink Floyd’s timeless classics.
For information and tickets, please click here
The 27th Oxford Literary Festival 2024
16 to 24 March 2024
Sheldonian Theatre, Broad Street, Oxford
This renowned festival once again brings together authoritative voices, both locally and globally, to engage in passionate debates, discuss current issues, and delve into the realms of literature and culture. With an unwavering commitment to freedom of speech, the festival welcomes speakers from all corners of the opinion spectrum, inviting them to boldly address controversial subjects and well-trodden paths of discussion.
Visitors from far and wide make the pilgrimage to Oxford to be part of this celebration of literature, culture, and intellectual discourse. The festival, in partnership with the University of Oxford, the Bodleian Libraries, and Netflix, is unique in that it offers its engaging talks within the confines of stunning historical buildings that are often off-limits to the general public.
Highlights of the Festival:
- The Planet: NHS GP, writer, and TV personality Dr. Amir Khan will deliver the Compassion in World Farming Lecture, sharing his deep-rooted passion for wildlife conservation and advocating for wildlife-friendly and sustainable farming practices. Meanwhile, animal rights campaigner Gary Francione will lead a series of panel discussions, exploring the future of our food and probing whether there is an appetite for cultivated meats.
- A New Sponsor: Oxford United Football Club sponsors a talk by former Manchester City footballer Nedum Onuoha. He reflects on the myriad challenges he faced in football, from dealing with racism to knowing when to retire from the game. This promises to be an interactive session, with questions welcomed from football enthusiasts of all ages.
- Scandals: Andy Verity makes a compelling argument for the innocence of the 19 financial traders convicted of rate rigging, while Caroline Wheeler unveils the heart-wrenching stories of individuals and families entangled in the NHS contaminated blood scandal.
- Debates: A ‘You Ask the Question’ panel, chaired by Yasmin Alibai-Brown and featuring panellists such as Dr. Liam Fox MP and Hardeep Matharu, will field questions from the audience on pressing issues of the day. Renowned swimmer and sports presenter Sharron Davies will be interviewed by Andrew Billen about her book, “Unfair Play: The Battle for Women’s Sport.”
- Health: Teun Toebes, a 24-year-old Dutch student, shares the enlightening experiences from renting a room in a nursing home and the profound lessons it taught him about dementia. In the digital realm, neuroscientist and practising neurologist Dr. Faye Begeti provides insights into building healthy digital habits while shedding light on how to break the bad ones.
- Faith: Professor Avi Shlaim, a distinguished historian of the Arab-Israeli conflict, narrates the gripping tale of Iraqi Jews caught in the crossfire of Zionism and Nationalism. Historian Dr. Ambrogio Caini delves into the complex history of the Catholic Church, and former Bishop of Oxford Richard Harries shares captivating stories from his memoir.
- Nature: Derek Gow, the ‘maverick rewilder,’ paints a vivid picture of his dream—a return of wolves to the British Isles. Young birder and environmentalist Mya-Rose Craig sheds light on her initiative, Black-to-Nature, aimed at engaging minority ethnic teenagers with the wonders of nature.
- Fiction: Bestselling authors Val McDermid and Ann Cleeves engage in a discussion about the art of evoking place in their writing. On the 25th anniversary of her book “Chocolat,” acclaimed writer Joanne Harris sits down with Nick Higham to delve into her life as a writer.
- Feminism: Science journalist Angela Saini presents her latest book, “The Patriarchs: How Men Came to Rule,” dissecting the historical roots of male domination. Professor Athene Donald makes a compelling case for the need for more women in science, and Hilary Bradt engages in a lively conversation with Kate Humble about her adventures hitchhiking around the world, as chronicled in her book “Unfair Play.”
- LGBTQ+: Amin Ghaziani discusses his new book, “Queer Nightlife – How the Closing of Gay Bars Sparked a Revolution.” Novelists CA Castle and Lex Croucher delve into their contemporary takes on period dramas, featuring gender-fluid protagonists and characters with diverse queer identities.
- Economy: Economist Stephen King unravels the mystery of why inflation has made a surprising return after we thought it was laid to rest. Linda Yueh reflects on the lessons learned from previous global economic meltdowns, and Will Hutton outlines what the Right did to Britain and proposes ways to mend it.
- Politics: The festival will conclude with Lord William Hague delivering the Magdalen President’s Lecture. Anthony Seldon provides insight into Boris Johnson’s premiership, and Simon McDonald shares his vision for reshaping UK foreign policy.
For further information, please click here
Sing-a-Long-a Matilda – Film
Sunday 31 March 2024
New Theatre Oxford, 24-26 George St, Oxford
Calling all fans of the mischievous Matilda, it’s time to unleash your inner ‘revolting child’ and join the ultimate sing-along extravaganza!
On Sunday, 31 March 2024, the New Theatre Oxford will transform into a hub of infectious energy and musical merriment as “Sing-a-Long-a Matilda” takes centre stage. Brought to you by the same creative minds behind the hugely popular Singalonga Sound of Music and Singalonga Frozen, this event promises a thrilling experience for kids and adults alike. Based on Roald Dahl’s beloved novel, Matilda the Musical is a Tony and Olivier Award-winning masterpiece that has captured hearts around the world.
Now, you have the chance to step into Matilda’s world, belt out those catchy tunes, and enjoy yourself in a story of wit, courage, and the magic of childhood. Grab your free prop bags, don your best fancy dress, and prepare to boo the villains and cheer for the heroes – because at Sing-a-Long-a Matilda, the audience is the star of the show! Please note, this is a screening of the movie, not a live stage production, but it promises to be an interactive and unforgettable cinematic experience for the whole family.
For information and tickets, please click here
