Howden Park Centre unveils spring programme of events

Jan 14 2010 by Marjorie Kerr, West Lothian Courier

THE spring programme of events has just been unveiled by Howden Park Centre in Livingston.

And the programme being lined-up is simply bursting with arts and entertainment for all the family.

The brochures, which have been distributed to different venues across West Lothian this week, features the classic play ‘The Government Inspector’ on the cover.

Inside the brochure gives details of a great theatre programme that takes in everything from Burns to the sinister tale of ‘Funny – Don’t Make Me Laugh’; a great mix of music, including a rare set from the legendary Finbar Furey and an exciting jazz programme; a stunning new dance spectacular from the amazing Mothionhouse Dance Theatre and a free exhibition programme.

There are also dance and visual arts workshops and classes for adults and children.

The theatre programme takes off with a celebration of Burns with a difference as the wonderful Foolish Notion join forces with singer Adam Holmes.

It takes in the dark and powerful productions ‘Funny’ and ‘Promises Promises’ as well as fantastic children’s shows ‘If I Were a Mouse’ and ‘Pobby and Dingan’ before bringing you the funny, poignant ‘Laurel and Hardy’ in April.

The music season coming to the centre offers something for everyone – from the annual brass solo and ensemble championships through to former Del Amitri frontman Junstin Currie singing with a big band in March, Essential Scottish Opera and the blazing bagpipes and fearsome fiddles of Skerryvore who will be arriving in April.

The dance programme has something for everyone.

The ever popular Howden Park Season Friday Tea Dances take to the floor again in January.

And in March everyone over four can enjoy ‘Telling Tales’, a playful introduction to dance that even features dancing shirts and skirts.

The spectacular Motionhouse production ‘Scattered’ follows the March Salsa Party which will be staged with a complete with a tapas buffet for people to enjoy.

With a growing reputation for the quality of the meals prepared by Head Chef Scott Kirkham the bistro also has a selection of highlight events this season .

These will include a Valentine’s Day Dinner, Burns Ceilidh (with a traditional meal of haggis, neeps, tatties and a dram), a traditional high tea for Mother’s Day and an Easter eggstravaganza for all the family on Sunday, April 4, and Monday, April 5.

There is also live music being performed in the bistro on many Thursday lunch and dinner times during the season.

As well as the performance programme there is a huge range of classes in dance, music and visual arts for adults and children.

The gallery features a free exhibition of visual arts every day.

Details of all of these arts activities and many more are in the new Howden Park Centre brochure available now from community venues across West Lothian and on the website at www.howdenparkcentre.co.uk

To join the 9000 plus people who have a copy posted directly to their home address simply telephone the box office on 01506 777666 and ask to be added to the mailing list.

The box office is also taking bookings for the shows now on the same number.