Tim Hughes picks eight recommended gigs and shows for the weekend - and beyond

WE thought it would never come… but here it is: the weekend!

So if you are wondering what to do with your hard-earned time (and cash) we’ve whittled down the options and come up with our definitive list of the best gigs and shows in town over the weekend and beyond.

So pull on your glad rages, get yourselves out – and enjoy yourself!

1. Go burlesque

Join heady 1950’s inspired bombshell Scottish Burlesque dancer, Missy Malone, as she brings to the stage a variety of great acts that range from dance to magic.

Missy Malone was also named in the 21st Century Burlesque International’s top 50 Burlesque Dancers - so you'll be in good hands.

 

2. Act of faith

A crucifixion in Abingdon should bring traffic to a standstill as a dramatic, fast-paced retelling of the Easter story with an original script and a new beautifully composed musical score takes place in the Market Place.

It uses a band of female storytellers to give the piece its narrative drive and the female followers of Jesus a voice.

This is a real community effort with a large cast of all ages from the Abingdon area, a choir of over 50 adults from church and community choirs and 6 primary schools involved.

The last production in 2013 drew well over a thousand people onto the streets of Abingdon in freezing conditions. Organisers anticipate even larger numbers this time.

3. Get down to the rhythm of ‘mafrobeat’

Fusing math-rock and Afrobeat, south Oxfordshire lads Bright Works have concocted an infectious and upbeat sound which is unlike anything else on the local scene.

They celebrate the launch of their new EP and third music video.

4. ‘Emmy’ dream will do…

Superlative singer-songwriter returns with third album Second Love – which has been three years in the making. Expect beautiful, thought-provoking work from one of our finest female recording artists.

5. Lupine howl

Ellie Rowsell and band have had a storming year since they last played on the Cowley Road. They return with Mercury, Grammy and Brit nominations and a hit album under their belts.

Brace yourself with a lupine blend of fuzzy rock, Stone Roses-style guitars, full-pelt punk-pop and tender vocals.

Oxford Mail:

6. All the thrill of the 'Jase'

Antipodean soap actor turned pop pin-up and West End musical star, Jason Donovan, returns to his singing roots with his first gig for ages. One for fans of all ages, this is a rare chance to see the former Oxfordshire resident doing what he does best.

Don't miss this rare chance to see a great singer (and lovely man) performing material going right back to his days with former Neighbours star Kylie Minogue (whatever happened to her?).

Oxford Mail:

7. Out of Africa

  • The Old Woman, the Buffalo and the Lion of Manding
  • The North Wall, Oxford
  • Tonight (Fri)
  • thenorthwall.com
  • 01865 319450

Magic, passion & music of West Africa come together in this spell-binding storytelling event, a powerful and uplifting show that tells the story of the origins of the great 13th century Malian Empire with the birth of its visionary leader, Sundiata Keita.

The show is created and performed by one of the world’s leading storytellers, Jan Blake and two outstanding West African-born musicians, Raymond Sereba and Kouame Sereba and in this show the audience are invited to join in and sing with the three artists as well as enjoying original music performed on the extraordinary dodo mouth bow, djembe drums, kalimbas and Norse flutes.

8. 'Wirral' rock you!

If you like indie-rock, you’ll love The Coral. Wirral lads James Skelly and co have been brightening up our days for years now, and the former Mercury Prize nominees come armed with a new sound – which is attracting a whole new generation of fans.

Expect the old stuff too - like Pass it On and In The Morning - of course.

Oxford Mail: