We pick out seven events worth your time during April across Berkshire and Buckinghamshire
Delight in Nature
Until 30 October
Stanley Spencer Gallery, Cookham
The study of landscape and the natural world was intrinsic to Stanley Spencer from his early years as a developing artist, and sustained him through his difficult times in later life. The majority of works on display in Delight in Nature depict the village of Cookham, where the gallery is located and Spencer’s artistic and spiritual centre, although works from as far afield as Macedonia also appear. To Spencer, Cookham was an earthly paradise, from its most carefully tended cottage gardens to the overlooked weeds growing in the streets.
Fatal Attraction
5-9 April, Aylesbury Theatre
Tipped to be the most provocative and gripping stage-play of the year, Fatal Attraction is a tale of seduction and suspense that asks the question: what happens when desire becomes deadly? When happily married New York attorney Dan Gallagher meets charming editor Alex on a night out in the city, they both commit to a night of passion they can’t take back. Dan returns home to his family and tries to forget the mistake he has made, but Alex has different ideas.
Easter Trail
From 9 April
Stonor Park
Stonor Park is celebrating its re-opening with the return of its much-loved Easter Trail, along with new additions to its magical adventure playground, Tumblestone Hollow. Located near Henley on Thames, the historic house’s Easter Trail offers clues and puzzles spanning the grounds of the estate with the reward of a delicious Easter chocolate treat at the end. Included in the price of a ticket is admission to its adventure playground, Tumblestone Hollow, which opened a year ago and provides a thrilling experience for its young guests. High level walkways, lookout decks and bridges are all set around a mystical stone circle where its characters are said to dwell.
Singin’ In The Rain
11-16 April
MK Theatre
Guest star Faye Tozer will reprise her role as Lina Lamont alongside Sam Lips as Don Lockwood in this smash-hit musical. Don Lockwood is a silent movie star with everything he could want – fame, adulation and a well-publicised ‘romance’ with his co-star, Lina Lamont. But Hollywood is about to change forever. There is rumour in the studio of a new kind of film, where the actors actually talk, sing and dance. Can Don and the uniquely voiced Lina make the transition, and will chorus girl Kathy Selden fulfil her dream of stardom and capture Don’s heart along the way?
Downsizing
14 April
Castle View Windsor
Downsizing – or ‘rightsizing’ as some prefer to call it – is a challenge facing everyone as they reach that older stage in life. To help in this situation, a downsizing event is being hosted by Castle View, the new retirement village in Windsor. Several independent speakers will cover a range of subjects from choosing an estate agent to get your current property valued, looking at the options for a smaller more appropriate home, through to those who will look at the financial implications.
To book your place at the event, call Ruth on 01753 378127 or e-mail ruthwilsonhome@yahoo.co.uk
Contemporary Art Fair
22-24 April
Newbury Racecourse
The ever-popular Contemporary Art Fair at Newbury Racecourse is back with a bang. This weekend in April will be offer the opportunity to see some of the best artwork out there today. Plan a day or a whole weekend to visit, as they have a jam-packed schedule full of live art demonstrations, creative workshops and more.
Alice’s Wonderland
Until 30 October
Waddesdon Manor
This spring Waddesdon celebrates the life, collections and legacy of Alice de Rothschild (1847-1922). The Buckinghamshire château is marking the centenary of her death with an exciting programme of
exhibitions and displays that highlights her role in its history. In the Exhibition Room visitors will be able to gain an understanding of Alice as a collector, with a display in one space that brings together the breadth and variety of her interests, which included paintings, pastels, ceramics and objets de vertu spanning from the Renaissance to the 18th century.
