Ten of the best things to do in and around Luton and Dunstable this month

From a punky musical to a theatrical thriller, there's plenty to enjoy...
American Idiot is coming to the Grove Theatre in DunstableAmerican Idiot is coming to the Grove Theatre in Dunstable
American Idiot is coming to the Grove Theatre in Dunstable

1 THEATRE

American Idiot, Grove Theatre, Dunstable, January 17 to 19

Following two critically acclaimed West End runs and a sell-out UK tour, Green Day’s explosive rock musical American Idiot returns to mark the show’s 10th anniversary and the 15th anniversary of the Grammy Award winning original album. American Idiot is the story of three boyhood friends, each searching for meaning in a post 9/11 world.

Details: grovetheatre.co.uk

2 MUSIC

The Simon and Garfunkel Story, Grove Theatre, Dunstable, January 25

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Direct from its success at London’s Lyric Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue, a sold-out worldwide tour and standing ovations at every performance, The Simon & Garfunkel Story is back. Using huge projection photos and original film footage, this 50th anniversary celebration also features a full live band performing all the hits including Mrs Robinson, Cecilia, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Homeward Bound and many more.

Details: grovetheatre.co.uk

3 THEATRE

Dirty Dusting, Grove Theatre, Dunstable, January 29

A chance wrong number gives three cleaning ladies a great idea: Why not run a sex chat line? After all, their age and appearance won’t matter on the phone and providing they can keep this a secret from their boss, they could be on to a winner.

This heart-warming, feel-good comedy stars Crissy Rock (Benidorm, I’m a Celebrity), Leah Bell, Dolores Porretta and Andrew Green.

Details: grovetheatre.co.uk

4 MUSIC

Sweet Caroline, Grove Theatre, Dunstable, January 30

The tribute to Neil Diamond features Gary Ryan, as seen on Stars in Their Eyes. Taking it back to where it began, this musical journey celebrates 50 years of a legend. From Brooklyn to Hollywood, Neil Diamond has left a legacy of great songs which have been covered by every great vocalist. Spanning all genres from the reggae of Red Red Wine, through the country of Cracklin’ Rosie, and the Hollywood music of The Jazz Singer. Celebrate the music that has endured through six decades.

Details: grovetheatre.co.uk

5 ROBIN HOOD

Milton Keynes Theatre, until January 13

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Soap star Shane Richie leads the cast in this year’s Milton Keynes Theatre panto. He stars in the title role alongside comedian Peter Piper as Friar Tuck and West End star Gina Murray as the Spirit of Sherwood.

Details: atgtickets.com/MiltonKeynes

6 MUSIC

Some Guys Have All the Luck - The Rod Stewart Story, Milton Keynes Theatre, January 16

Join Paul Metcalfe as he captures the excitement of Rod Stewart live.

Details: atgtickets.com/MiltonKeynes

7 MUSIC

The Rolling Stones Story, Milton Keynes Theatre, January 17

Expect a high-energy concert celebrating the music of the world’s greatest rock ‘n’ roll band with a set featuring Satisfaction, Jumpin’ Jack Flash, Not Fade Away, Honky Tonk Woman, Brown Sugar, Start Me Up and more.

Details: atgtickets.com/MiltonKeynes

8 THEATRE

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The Girl on the Train, Milton Keynes Theatre, January 23 to 26

Adapted from Paula Hawkins’ novel - an international phenomenon selling over 20 million copies worldwide - and starring Samantha Womack and Oliver Farnworth, this gripping new play will keep audiences guessing until the final moment.

Details: atgtickets.com

9 MUSIC

Abandoman, Bear Club, Luton, January 12

Abandoman create musical sketches at lightning speed live in front of their audience. No two gigs are ever the same. The project sees frontman Rob and multi-instr-

umentalist James Hancox reinventing hip hop.

Details: www.the-bear.club

10 EXHIBITION

British Wildlife Photography Awards Exhibition, Stockwood Discovery Centre, January 21 to March 17

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The highly acclaimed and exceptional wildlife photography exhibition promises to captivate visitors with its striking and beautiful imagery. The awards recognise the talents of photographers practising in Britain, while highlighting the great wealth of Britain’s natural history.

Details: lutonculture.com