What's On

  • Whatever your thoughts on Woody Allen's more recent offerings, there's no denying the precocious little man's ability to get a laugh. This festival at the Southbank's BFI will pay homage to Allen's wisest of wise cracks with a programme of films spaning the likes of Midnight in Paris and Manhattan.  BFI, London - Now until 8th Feb 2012

  • What better way to celebrate the Valentines season than with history's original star-crossed lovers? The Royal Ballet's revival of the classic ballet is directed by Kenneth MacMillan and is a sure-fire winner for ballet lovers. Don't miss the opportunity to head to the stunning art deco Paul Hamlyn Bar for interval drinks.  Royal Opera House, London - Now until 31st Mar 2012

  • Anselm Kiefer is often cited as one of the most important artists of the 20th century. His work tends to focus on the issues at the heart of modern Germany. However, in recent years his themes have spread to general concepts of national identity, symbolism and theology. This exhibition will focus on his works in paper, placing them in a rural Welsh setting. Mostyn Gallery, Llandudlo - Now until 11th Mar 2012

  • Sharon Jones and her dapper Dapkings have been making world-class funk and soul music since the mid-nineties, but they sound like they've been swinging since the sixties. Their retro sound is achieved, not only by taking influence from the likes of James Brown, but also through refusing to use modern recording equipment in the studio. On stage Sharon Jones will charm your soul socks off. Across the UK - tour starts 3rd March 2012 (tickets are on sale now)

  • This forward-thinking Manchester exhibition comes as part of the second Asia Triennial. It takes a look at two Japanese farming families living at the end of an airport runway, having refused to leave when the authoritoes tried everything to move them on.  This exhibition uses sound recordings, video footage and photographs to convey their experiences. Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester,  Now until 12th Feb 2012

  • Enid Mark is a distant cousin of Karl Marx. And she apparently shared his revolutionary tendencies. As an art student she was thrown out of classes for wanting to go abstract and so she turned her attentions to textiles. She is now a Brirish institution in the world of household fabrics. This exhibition shows off her skills in all their glory. Pallant House Gallery, Chichester, Now - 26th Feb 2012
     

  • The Northern Art Prize offers an opportunity for fresh talent in the North of England to emerge. A democratic system ensures that artists of all ages and backgrounds are free to enter and the brief is simply to enter as a visual artist. This year's shortlisted include James Hugonin, Leo Fitzmaurice and Richard Rigg. Head to Leeds to stay afoot of fledgling talent and to support the North's artistic heritage that has seen the likes of David Hockney and Damien Hirst succeed.  Leeds Art Gallery - Now until 19th Feb 2012

  • If you are an art lover, chances are, you already know all about this exhibition. It is the largest display of Da Vinci's paintings ever held. It focuses on his work as a painter and will offer you the opportunity to see classics including 'Virgin On The Rocks' and 'Last Supper'. As you can imagine, it's a very popular show. It is essentail to book tickets in advance and if they are sold out, you will need to head to the gallery on the morning of the day that you want to visit and try for one of their last minute tickets. National Gallery, London, 9th Nov - 5th Feb 2012

  • You no longer need to live in London to see productions by the National Theatre. A new initiative called National Theatre Live has seen plays broadcast live to cinemas across the country. Travelling Light is a homage to the Eastern European immigrants who made their mark in Hollywood. Check out the National Theatre website to find out where it will be screened near you. Nationwide - 9th Feb 2012

  • Falmouth is a small fishing village in Cornwall that boasts some of the country's best seafood. For a week in February the restaurants of the town will come together to host a series of events and offers to keep you coming back for more.  Various locations, Falmouth - 4th - 11th Feb 2012

  • This is an exhibition of 17 pieces of work by local artists, David Hollins and Malcolm Wilson. Both artists have very unique and differing styles, but both use their art to depict Cumbrian landscapes. It is interesting to see the two artists' works sitting side by side, representing the area in two very different ways. Crown Gallery, Carlisle - now until Jun 15th.

  • If you haven't been to Zefferellis before, you are missing a treat. It sits in the picturesque lakeside Cumbrian town of Ambleside and hosts an array of cultural events. Upstairs in the complex you will find an intimate jazz club hosting world-class acts. Head here for dinner in their vegetarian restaurant, then stroll upstairs to indulge in some live jazz. Zefferellis, Cumbria - Feb 11th 2012

  • It's official! The Chinese State Circus are coming to Manchester. Get tickets for the whole family to see some jaw-dropping acrobatics, gymnastics and martial arts. Prepare to see Coco the Clown put to shame.  The Lowry, Manchester - 17th - 19th Feb 2012