Private Lives at Everyman Theatre
Described by The Telegraph as ‘pitch-perfect’, this brilliant production of Noel Coward’s gloriously entertaining Private Lives is the inaugural show from The Nigel Havers Theatre Company. The play tells the story of Elyot and Amanda, who were once married. They find themselves on honeymoon with their new partners, in the same hotel on the French Riviera, admiring the view from adjoining balconies. Their initial horror quickly evaporates and soon they are sharing cocktails… Nigel Havers is the ever-suave and thoroughly charming Elyot while Olivier Award-winning Patricia Hodge takes on the role of Amanda.
1stto 5th February. The Everyman Theatre, Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573; everymantheatre.org.uk
Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition at Nature in Art
On tour from the Natural History Museum in London, this world-renowned exhibition showcases the natural world’s most astonishing and challenging sights across the globe. From fascinating animal behaviour to spectacular species to the breath-taking diversity of nature, marvel at the beauty of our planet through the eyes of some of the world’s best wildlife photographers. With 100 powerful photographs, these exceptional images also shine a light on the serious issues facing Mother Nature today and the collective actions we need to take to protect it.
1st February to 27th March. Nature in Art, Wallsworth Hall, Gloucester, GL2 9PA. 01452 731422; natureinart.org.uk
Snowdrops at Painswick Rococo Garden
Famous for having one of the largest – and the best – naturalistic plantings of snowdrops in the country, the hidden valley which forms the Rococo Garden is unforgettably carpeted with white for a few weeks at the start of spring. With five million snowdrops, including some rare varieties, the best time to go is late afternoon when the dramatic low winter sun comes underneath the trees. Afterwards, stop by The Crown Inn, a short drive away in Minchinhampton. Enjoy roaring fires, a restaurant serving up locally-inspired flavours and a cellar stocked full of craft ales, fine wines and fizz.
Until 27th February. Painswick Rococo Garden, Gloucester Rd, Painswick, Stroud, GL6 6TH. 01452 813204; www.rococogarden.org.uk
The Crown Inn, High Street, Minchinhampton, Stroud, GL6 9BN. 01453 488160; www.thecrown-minchinhampton.com
Jerusalem String Quartet at Pittville Pump Room
One of the great international string ensembles, the Jerusalem String Quartet will be taking to the stage of the Pittville Pump Room with a fantastic programme. Known for their depth of expression and wide repertoire, these four Israeli musicians will be performing a selection of much-loved classical pieces, including Mozart String Quartet in C Major, Bartók String Quartet no. 5 in C minor op.110 and Tchaikovsky String Quartet no. 1 in D major op. 11. In the words of The New York Times: “Passion, precision, warmth, a gold blend: these are the trademarks of this excellent Israeli string quartet.”
17th February. Pittville Pump Room, East Approach Drive, Cheltenham, GL52 3JE. 01242 528764; www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk