While it's nearing the end of a summer of fun, Notts will never run of fun things to do. Here's our pick of the week...
When: Tue 19 - Sat 23 August
Where: Royal Concert Hall
How much: £26 to £62.50
Fiddler on the Roof is a classic 1960s musical that in 2025 is seeing its first UK tour in 12 years. Following the story of a Jewish milkman living in rural Russia, in 1905, and his relationship with his daughters, the production is known for its timeless story and songs like If I Were A Rich Man and Matchmaker. This particular show also has a powerhouse team behind it, including director Jordan Fein and Tony Award winning designer Tom Scutt.
When: Thu 21 August
Where: The Bodega
How much: £14.85
Irish-born London-based singer songwriter Nell Mescal brings her warm, insightful and intimate discography to The Bodega. Inspired by household names like Bon Iver, Billie Joel, and Paul Simon, Mescal promises an evening of emotional connection and community - supported by Eve Christina.
Scattered Pages From a Palestinian-Ukranian’s Memoirs, With Adeeb Shaheen
When: Thu 21 August
Where: Five Leaves Bookshop
How much: Free
If you’re looking to spend a meaningful evening, join Adeeb Shaheen, now a Notts local, as he recounts his life’s tale — a refugee from not one but two countries, with his memoir It is War! on “war, oppression, and life.” Following the narration is a discussion and Q&A session with the polyglot over refreshments. While the event is free, a booking is encouraged.
Broadway @ Lakeside Outdoor Screenings
When: From Fri 22 August
Where: Lakeside Arts
How much: £16-20
Across the past four years, through summer and autumn, Broadway Cinema have facilitated outdoor film screenings with Lakeside Arts, in the atmospheric waterside surrounds of Highfields Park, next to the Uni of Nottingham. This year, the series returns with three unique showings lined up for August – Summer of Soul: a 2021 documentary about the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival, Buena Vista Social Club: a 1999 documentary about the Cuban music scene, and The Boy and the Heron: an animated film from the globally loved Studio Ghibli.
Foolhardy Folk Festival @ Arboretum
When: Sun 24 August
Where: The Arboretum
How much: £46
Curated as always by local troubadour Beans on Toast, the Foolhardy Folk Festival is back again for its fifth annual instalment. The line-up this year includes Gracie Petrie, The Young’uns, Nick Parker, and plenty of other loved local songsmiths, with beer and street food provided across the site. Under 11s also go free with a free e-ticket. Year on year, this delightful celebration of community and local music is really popular – so if you’re considering attending, make sure you look to get tickets early.
When: Sun 24 August
Where: The Grove
How much: £13.20 or £22.00
Since founding their venue one year ago the team at Sneinton Market’s The Grove have truly carved out a special place in Nottingham, having uplifted a whole host of local talent through recording sessions and live shows. At the end of this month, they celebrate everything that they’ve achieved with a special afternoon and evening of music, party hats, and fancy dress, with some solid local acts including Lace Thief and Victory Lap. 100% of ticket proceeds will go to the artists.
We have a favour to ask
LeftLion is Nottingham’s meeting point for information about what’s going on in our city, from the established organisations to the grassroots. We want to keep what we do free to all to access, but increasingly we are relying on revenue from our readers to continue. Can you spare a few quid each month to support us?
