New year, new music. If you’re looking to add some new albums to your playlists, look no further than this weeks’ gig picks. If drama is more your thing, we have you covered with gripping theatre and opera. If you’re simply looking to brighten up the January days, we have a dose of comedy that will do just the trick.
Elles Bailey
When: Tuesday 20 January
Where: Rough Trade
How much: From £14
Elles Bailey is a blues, folk singer and songwriter. Her gritty, soulful vocals are the centrepiece of her new album Can’t Take My Story Away. This album departs from her recent works which felt like ‘snapshots in time’; instead it was recorded over a three year period during which Elles felt she ‘evolved’ with the album. It explores themes of human connection and follows her journey of stepping away from controlling relationships into ones that celebrate liberation and honesty. For those looking for an intimate music experience, this stripped back gig and signing fits the bill.
Single White Female
When: Wednesday 21 January
Where: Theatre Royal
How much: From £22
Coronation Street’s Kym Marsh and Holby City’s Lisa Faulkner star in a stage adaptation that updates gripping psychological thriller Single White Female bringing it into the digital age. This twisting tale follows the recently divorced mum, Allie, and her new lodger, Hedy as their lives begin to intertwine bringing a whirlwind of secrets, ambition and obsession. Guaranteeing suspense until the very last act, Single White Female promises to be a captivating performance.
BBC Philharmonic Orchestra: Bluebeard's Castle
When: Friday 23rd January
Where: Royal Concert Hall
How much: From £15.50
A rare chance to hear the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra perform Bluebeard’s Castle in the concert hall with theatrical lighting. Bartók’s one-act opera, conducted by Anja Bihlmaier, follows the story of a young bride uncovering dark truths about her husband from the confines of his citadel. Zoltan Kodály’s Dances of Galánta and Lili Boulanger’s D’un soir triste will form the prelude to Bluebeard’s Castle, whetting the appetite for Bartók’s gripping main event. For those looking to delve deeper into the music, Anja Bihlmaier will be delivering a free pre-concert talk in the auditorium.
Knutmo Five
When: Saturday 24 January
Where: Fisher Gate Point
How much: £8
For indie music lovers looking for new releases, look no further than Knutmo Five’s album launch at Fisher Gate Point. The band from the Nottingham-Stoke area blends transatlantic influences, twee pop and indie slacker rock to create a unique sound. This brand new music headline act will be supported by The Rossetti's and Super Mega Death Robot. Fisher Gate Point continues to provide an intimate setting in which to experience the incredible diversity that Nottingham’s grassroots music scene has to offer.
Pippley Walled Garden Launch Open Day
When: Saturday 24th January
Where: Pippley Walled Garden
How much: Free (booking required)
Nottingham’s award-winning sustainable events venue, formerly known as The Walled Garden at Beeston Fields, has an exciting new identity. We’d like to introduce you to Pippley Walled Garden. The rebrand features web design, branding and artwork from local creatives, Studio Seventeen and Jenny at The Little Hollow Studio. Get stuck into a host of exciting activities at the open day - from cookery demonstrations, to wedding tasters, to garden tours, there's bound to be something for everyone. Guests will get a free drink upon arrival and dogs are welcome.
Russell Howard: Don’t tell the algorithm
When: Sunday 25th January
Where: Theatre Royal
How much: £39
Top comedian Russell Howard brings his new 2026 stand-up tour to Nottingham. He invites the audience to ditch their phones and distractions to focus on an evening of humans and jokes instead. Much of his tour has already sold out, but there are still tickets remaining for this Nottingham date, so get them while they’re still hot.
Remember to check out our events listings for more things to do this week.
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