The weekend's events

This one's a busy weekend, and so we've collected a list of 'what's on' for you. Bear with it, it may be long, but is filled with great ideas of what to do, including a great selection to suit all tastes and interests!

Friday 24th April

Sausage and mash supper with bingo and quiz @ Lavendon Village Hall. 6.30pm for 7pm start
Bring your own drinks, tickets cost £10.

Friday Night Films- Mr Turner @ MK Gallery, 7.30pm
A pop-up cinema offering an alternative film experience. The film is Mr Turner, which explores the last quarter century of the British painter J.M.W Turner (1775-1851).

Saturday 25th April

Newport Pagnell Singers- Choral Workshop @ Lovat Hall, Silver Street. 9am-4pm
The Sprig of Thyme. Want to sing in a choir? The singers are on the lookout for new members in every voice part. Why not join in for the workshop and see if it's something you would enjoy? You can book a place by clicking here.

The Yardley Hastings Heritage Society @ The United Reformed Church, Yardley Hastings. 10am-4pm
The theme of the open day is Yardley at war. If you have any information, documents or photographs of the village during this time or anything else concerning the village or villagers which you would like to share, then do bring it along. There is a dedicated cupboard for storing the photographs and document sand the facilitates to help you preserve your documents.

Olney Lace Circle- Lace and craft day @ Denton village hall. 10am-4pm
Tickets cost £3.50, this is a ticket only event. Tea and coffee available all day.

Trend:mk SS15 fashion showcase @ Middleton Hall, centre:mk. Saturday- Sunday 
The centre:mk's biggest fashion showcase, with live catwalk shows and great in-store discounts. Find out the trends for spring/summer 2015 and enjoy some exclusive offers from around 30 of the centres shops.

North Bedfordshire NCT nearly new sale @ Bedford athletic stadium, Barker lane, Bedford. 11.30am-1.30pm
Top quality baby and children's clothes and equipment at bargain prices. Opens at 11.30am for NCT members and 12pm for the general public. £1 entry fee.

The Great Sherington Garage Sale @ Sherington. All day.
Come to Sherington to grab a bargain. Sherington is about to open its garage doors for the first time on mass as a fund raiser for St Laud's Sherington. Come and see what bargains you can find. Pick up a pamphlet from Sherington village shop on Church Road, or from one of the participating garages for £1 to see where all the other garages are.

St George's Day All-Dayer @ Bletchley Working Mens Club. Midday-Midnight
Stolen Hours social club presents the annual St George's day all-dayer. DJ's playing Ska, Reggae, Motown and Northern Soul, as well as northern soul dance lessons with Fiona Smith.

Good Dog Owners' guide to MK @ Campbell Park, Milton Keynes. 2pm
An introduction to the parks of Milton Keynes for new dog owners, includes a short walk. Meet at Campbell Park Pavilion. £1 per person.

Foodie quiz night @ Browns of Stagsden. 7pm for 7.30pm start
Tickets cost £10 and includes a sausage supper. Teams of up to 8 people, with a prize for the winners. There will be a bar with local ale served.

Cowper & Newton Museum presents: Old Time Music hall @ Carlton House Club, High Street Olney. 7pm for 7.30pm start
David Pibworth produces a night of songs, variety, music and laughter to commemorate the Great War centenary. 'Pack up your troubles in your old kit bag and smile, smile, smile.' Be transported back in time and reminisce with tributes to great acts such as Laurel & Hardy, Gert & Daisy and more. Tickets just £3, available from the Cowper & Newton Museum shop.

The Pad Presents: The Neville Staple Band + Ruts Dc @ The Corn Exchange, Bedford. 7.30pm
Including New Groove Formation, Hammy & Geoff and DJ Andy Attic. Neville Staple is one of the great figureheads of the second wave of British ska in the last 70s. Best known for his work as the singer in Ska and Two Tone legends The Specials, his solo tour features a selection of The Special's back catalogue as well as tracks form his second chart topping band, The Fun Boy Three, as well as reworking some original Jamaican ska classics and showcasing some brand new solo material.

Bradwell Silver Band Concert @ St James Church, New Bradwell. 7.30pm
Bradwell silver band spring concert and annual awards. The band will perform a selection of music to suit all ages and tastes. Bradwell silver band is proud to support players of any age who wish to learn a brass instrument, with free tuition and instruments. The annual Spring Concert is an opportunity for band members to celebrate and recognise the commitment and hard work of the players and supporters.

Sunday 26th April

Telephone and Post Office vehicle's day @ Milton Keynes Museum. All day
Discover more about the telephone and the ways in which we communicate. Postal and telephone vehicles from the past 60 years. Working telephones and switchboards will be found in the telephone gallery, Post Office films and videos and working telegraph and telephone equipment will also be on show, as well as the usual museum exhibits.

Age UK fashion show @ The Peartree Centre, Peartree Bridge. 2-4pm
Hand-picked clothes from the six local Age UK shops. Fabulous fashions, jewellery and other accessories for sale on the day. There will be live music, and visitors will receive a goody bag, glass of bubbly on arrival and canapés. Tickets cost £10 or £8 in advance.

Tomorrow's local society events...

Tuesday, as always, is the day for many local societies to meet, and there's a whole list in this month's Phonebox magazine of what's on this Tuesday, have a look below for a reminder...

Newport Pagnell and District Probus Club at the Carlton House Club, Olney, 12.15pm.
Join for a buffet lunch followed by a speaker; this month is Lyn Kirkbright, who will relate 'The heart of volunteering and how I got stuck in the chair!'

Bridge at the Royal British Legion, Newport Pagnell, 7.30pm. 

Olney Jazz Club at the Carlton House Club, 8pm.
Featuring the Richard Baker Quintet. Richard was originally a trained trombonist, and has worked in pretty much every genre of music and appeared on numerous recordings throughout his 25 year career. The quintet was formed in 2013 and is a ensemble reminiscent of the quintets led by the likes of Frank Rosolino and Carl Fontana during the 50's and 60's. Tickets cost £10 on the door. Good food also available.

Newport Pagnell Historical Society, the United Reformed Church, Newport Pagnell, 7.30pm
A talk from Hugh Granger on 'A journey by stagecoach'.

Bedford Floral Art Society at the Addison Centre, Kempston at 7.30pm
Members meeting, with flowers, fun and friendship.

Olney Archaeological Society at the Olney centre, 10am-noon
Talk from Dr Jill Eyers: 'The birth of an ocean: The opening of the Atlantic'. The talk will be about the separation of South America from Africa. All are welcome, membership costs £20, or sessions cost £3 per lecture. Refreshments included.

Emberton and District Flower Club at the Carlton House Club, 7.30pm
A flower arranging demonstration entitled 'As we go down to the woods' by Emma Remington, NAFAS demonstrator, lecturer, flower arranger and florist.

If you're part of a local society which isn't currently featured in the Phonebox magazine, do send your information through so that we can cover as many groups as possible.

What to do this weekend...

All weekend: 

Lifestyle: Interiors and Exteriors show @ Middleton hall, the centre:mk, Thursday-Sunday
Come along and find out how you can update and upgrade your home without breaking the bank. Enjoy a range of stalls with ideas and products to help you transform your home. From designer bathrooms, to state-of-the-art kitchens, handmade furniture and more, don't miss it this weekend in the centre:mk.

Eco Event @ intu Milton Keynes, Saturday-Sunday
It's Eco weekend, have you got any clothes you want to learn how to upcycle? Come and join Milton Keynes College Fashion and Textiles students in the centre, who will be showing you how to turn your unwanted denim clothing into style masterpieces.

Friday 27th March:

Bingo @ Lavendon Village Hall 7pm for 7.30pm start
Tickets cost £1, there will also be a raffle and refreshments.

The Carlton House Club Presents: Race Night @ The Carlton House Club, 7.30pm start
A night in aid of the Olney-Newton link, an opportunity to have a great night out while raising money for a great cause. Tickets cost just £8 per person and includes a sausage and chips dinner. A bar will also be available. Tickets are available from the Phonebox Magazine office at Stanley Court, Olney. Don't miss out on a great night.

Saturday 28th March:

Charity Pamper fair @ Wavendon Gate Pavillion 11am-3pm
Charity Pamper fair in aid of The Henry Allen Trust with a selection of craft sellers and beauty treatments available. Feel relaxed and pampered by one of the therapists, with Indian Head Massage, mini manicures, brows, nails, mini facials and more. Treat yourself and indulge in some retail therapy, all from local craft companies, with products such as scarves, jewellery, soaps and cosmetics and other handmade products. There will also be refreshments available in the vintage pop up tea shop, and a raffle with great prizes and all proceeds going to The Henry Allen Trust.

Nathan Grisdale @ Crauford Arms, Wolverton, 12.30pm start 
Nathan Grisdale comes to Milton Keynes as part of his UK tour. Suitable for ages 14 and over, under 14s allowed when accompanied by an adult. VIP tickets are also available to meet Nathan, have photos and get a front-line spot for the show. Nathan is a solo artist but will be performing with a full band. There will also be two support acts, Hester & Holly Rose, and Mr Meanor. Click here for tickets.

BRTA Forum @ The Two Brewers Cabin Room, Olney, from 1pm.

Bozeat British Legion Buffet Dance @ Bozeat Church Hall. 7.30pm-Midnight
Lots of dancing to Bob Watts, raffle and bar will be available on the night. Tickets cost £9.

Charity Night @ Bletchley Working Mens Club, 7.30pm-Midnight
Music from Sahara C, Michelle Nova and Indifference, raising money for Deaf England Rugby. Admission is £5.

Stony BreakDown 3 @ York House Centre, London Road, Stony Stratford, 8-11pm
The banjos are back in town for the third Stony BreakDown, with fiddles, guitars, basses and more. Enjoy the wild and wonderful music of the Bluegrass State, and of North Carolina, Arkansas and West Virginia. Entry is £5.

Sunday 29th March:

Wedding Open Day @ Mercure Parkside House, Newport Road, Woughton on the Green, 12-4pm
If you're planning a wedding, come along to this open day to view the House as your potential wedding location, and for some inspiration. Enjoy a glass of Buck's Fizz and canapés on arrival and have the chance to view the newly refurbished bedrooms and the Orchard Suite, which will be set up for a wedding. Also the opportunity to meet dedicated wedding planners, recommended suppliers and also enjoy a fashion show.

Paul Carrack @ MK Theatre, starts at 7.30pm
Enjoy a show from Paul Carrack following his new album, Rain or Shine. Paul was originally in a number of bands, before becoming a solo artist in 2004. He is a unique British talent and is an artist who is at the top of his game. Tickets cost £32.40 and are available to buy by clicking here.

Waterpark in Milton Keynes?!

If you picture a waterpark, you probably picture a tropical, hot location abroad, with slides, rapids and, most importantly, sun! However, this image could be all set to change, as it looks like Milton Keynes could be becoming home to the UK's largest waterpark.

The proposed location is the National Bowl in Milton Keynes, which was built in 1937 and has attracted numerous artists to the open-air amphitheatre which has a capacity of 65,000. An investment company has proposed the UK's largest indoor waterpark, as well as a range of sports facilities and enhancements to help make the location into a major UK event venue.

The company will be holding a meeting with Milton Keynes Development Partnership (MKDP) on March 30th. If the development goes ahead, it is likely to cost around £26m and create around 650 jobs.

An exciting tourist attraction if it does go ahead, adding to the collection of attractions popping up around Milton Keynes, and making it an even more desirable place to visit and live.

It's still early stages, but how do you feel about the idea of an indoor waterpark on your doorstep? Is it a great idea and something else to do with the kids and at the weekend, or does it take something away from the image you have of what a waterpark is and just not fit in Milton Keynes? We'd love to hear your thoughts!

Go Blue For Willen!

Go Blue for Willen week runs from the 2nd- 8th March this year, and is a week of fundraising for a very worthy cause.

Willen Hospice provides complex and individual care to adults affected by life limiting conditions and illnesses. They also provide a great deal of support to the family and friends of those affected. Less than a quarter of funding comes from the NHS, meaning that the rest needs to be raised from donations and the support of the local community. 

Go Blue for Willen week is an opportunity to help raise vital funds for the hospice. The week will include a variety of events and activities with the go blue theme, for all the family to get involved with. People will be encouraged to wear blue, bake blue and take part in the organised activities throughout the week.

There will also be collections taking place at Milton Keynes, Bletchley and Wolverton stations between the 2nd and 6th, and at Kingston Shopping Centre on the 7th-8th March.

Across the week a special auction will be held where people can take part in an online auction and bid on Willen Hospice's ebay page for some amazing items donated by local businesses. These include a day trip for five to Centre Parcs, a signed MK Dons football, a hamper with wine from Harrods, a weekend pass to a British super bike event, a giant teddy, a Burberry watch, a family pass to Snozone, a HD TV and an amazing digital hamper including Xbox and laptop. 

On Saturday 7th March there will be a day of activity at Walton High in Walnut Tree. From 8am-12pm, the Hospice will host its first ever fill-a-bag sale, where people can pay £10 for a bag which they can fill with second hand and retro clothes. Later in the afternoon will be the Willen Hospice 'Zumbathon', with two hours of Zumba with three local instructors for just £10.

People are being encouraged to get their workplaces and schools involved, with wearing an element of blue during the week and making a donation to Willen Hospice. Whether that be a pair of blue socks or a bright blue wig, there are plenty of ways of getting involved. Blue-themed baking is another way of making money, you could arrange a blue-cake competition, or just bake something blue and donate the money, you could hold a blue bake sale in the office and donate the money to Willen.

If you would like to make a donation, please text: GBFW15 £5 to 70070 donate £5 and help Willen Hospice continue to offer its specialist care and support to patients and their families.

For more information about getting involved, click here.

Visit Bletchley Park For FREE tomorrow!

Residents of Milton Keynes can take advantage of the history right on their doorstep this Saturday, with free entry to Bletchley Park. Bletchley Park Community Day is a chance for Milton Keynes residents to explore their local heritage, and find out more about the history of Bletchley Park. Visitors can come and experience what it was like for the Codebreakers of WW2, exploring the restored wartime buildings and exhibitions. For those who have seen the film 'The Imitation Game' there's even more reason to visit, as there's also the official exhibition of the film, where you can find out more as well as see where some of the film was shot. There will also be family-friendly workshops to get involved in.

To get in for free you need to have a Milton Keynes postcode, and bring proof of residency, such as a utility bill or other proof of address. Open from 9.30am-4pm, last admission is at 3pm.

The weekend's events:

Friday and Saturday: 

MK Job Show @ Middleton Hall - FREE

If you're looking for a job, thinking about changing career or want help with your CV, the MK job show is hosting a great selection of employment and training opportunities from some of the most respected International, National, Regional and local employers. There will also be workshops and seminars, making this an event not to be missed if you're interested in improving your job opportunities.

Saturday 24th: 

Olney Rugby Football Club WW1 Commemorative Charity Match @ Olney Rugby Football Club, West Street Olney

In recognition of the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of WW1, Olney RFC are commemorating the sacrifices of many members of Olney RFC during the Great War. From 12 noon into the evening, a selection of events including a welcome from the Chairman, drummers, a minute's silence, Olney ladies v British Army and Olney v. the 1st Btn the Yorkshire Regiment RFC, guest lunch, speeches and then a hog roast and disco in the evening to finish off the day.

Talk: Our Changing Wildlife @ Howe Park Wood, 2-3pm

Come and enjoy a talk about how the wildlife is changing, exploring which British species are decreasing and increasing, and why. For over 16's, meet at Howe Park Wood education centre. Tickets cost £2 per person.

T'Pau: Pleasure & Pain Tour @ The Stables MK

T'Pau is a hugely successful pop/rock band fronted by Carol Decker. Most famous for their tracks: 'Heart & Soul' and 'China in your hand', T'Pau celebrated their 25th anniversary in 2013 with a successful UK tour. Back again, they will be at the Stables MK starting at 8pm this Saturday. Tickets cost £21.50 each.

Sunday 25th: 

Complete History of Comedy @ Stantonbury Theatre 

The Reduced Shakespeare Company presents comedy through the ages, from Aristophanes to Shakespeare and Moliere, Nick Clegg to Charlie Chaplin. 90 minutes of rolling comedy should have you laughing in the audacious and outrageous bawdy show. Tickets cost £17.50, concessions are £16.

MK lights switch-on tomorrow

It's a debut event for Milton Keynes this year- the first ever Milton Keynes official Christmas lights switch-on is happening tomorrow, with a whole day jam-packed with Christmas themed activities and events. You'll be kept entertained right through to the lights switch on at 5pm, and should leave well and truly excited for Christmas!

The festivities are set to commence at 11am, with acts and competitions on the stage located at the horseshoe area outside intu Milton Keynes. Meanwhile, inside intu Milton Keynes there will be a variety of activities and workshops running all day, including a place to write letters to Santa, thanks to Milton Keynes Theatre and Gulliver's land.

At 3pm you can see the Xscape lights switched on, best seen from inside Xscape from the centre mall near the escalators, or there'll be a live link on the TV at the main stage.

There will be a parade from 4pm, with over 30 mascots which will arrive at the stage at around 4.30pm for the final performances before the lights are switched on. At 4.30pm there will be a performance from MK theatre Peter Pan, followed by Yinka Williams, star of BBC's 'The Voice', a performance from Dancebox studios and the the grand countdown kicks off at 5pm, with Peter Pan, Wendy, Father Christmas and the Mayor of Milton Keynes; Derek Eastman. The lights will switch on in a wave from the train statin to intu Milton Keynes, followed by a stunning laser and pyrotechnic show.

Once the lights are on there'll be a chance to get festive with a bit of a sing-along with Alive and Singing rock and pop choir.

All in all it's set to be a great festive day, with fun for all the family. You'll be able to pick up a goody bag which includes a free pass to Gulliver's Land and their Splashzone. Don't miss the chance of being at this event- the first ever for Milton Keynes!

Spooky Railway Walk this Halloween...

Milton Keynes theatre of Comedy actors and Olney drama club, are teaming up to provide a spooky evening of entertainment this Halloween (31st october). Come along to Clifton Reynes, Olney, and walk the disused railway track. It's like no other spooky walk, and you will be led along the railway by your guide as you are surprised by zombies, pirates, witches and other spooky characters.

The walk is designed to be scary in the same way that a pantomime villain can be scary, and your guide will send off any unwanted spooky guests for you, so it's suitable for all the family.

Wrap up warm and bring wellies and waterproofs, each walk will last approximately 30 minutes and it may be chilly and wet, a torch may also be useful. You are welcome to come in fancy dress if you would like, from ghosts and ghouls to superheroes and fairies!

Tickets MUST BE BOOKED IN ADVANCE, and you need to select your chosen time slot when you book. Tickets cost £4 each, or £13 for a family ticket, and children's tickets include a glow stick and quiz sheet. You can book your tickets on the MKTOC website by clicking here.

Family Arts Festival

The National Family Arts Festival 2014 brings the arts alive for families from the 17th October- 2nd November.

There are over 2000 events going on across the UK for the festival, which is now in it's second year, covering art, music, film, circus, theatre, dance, literature and more.

Stantonbury Theatre will be offering two family-friendly events during half term as part of the festival.

Saturday 25th October presents 'Hey Presto', adapted from the well-loved children's book by Nadia Shireen. The story features Monty, a fuzzy brown dog, and his best friend Pesto the fuzzy blue cat, who live on the streets and have some very clever talents. They get involved when the travelling carnival comes to town and head to the big tent to put on a show. But fame goes to Monty's head and soon Pesto loses his friend and his show...will friendship prevail?! Suitable for children aged 3-8 years, 45 minutes long. Tickets cost £9.50, £7.50 for concessions or £30 for a family ticket. Start time 2.30pm.

Thursday 30th October sees Mr Magic come to town! Fresh from dazzling families at the open day in July is Mr Magic himself Adrian Ward, member of Magic Circle and just waiting to show what's up his sleeve. Come and join in the fun as Adrian takes you on a mind-boggling magical journey- prepare to be amazed! Suitable for ages 4+, 50 minutes long. Tickets cost £6.50, £5.50 for concessions or £20 for a family ticket. Start time 2.30pm.

For more information visit the Stantonbury theatre website.

This Weekend in and around Milton Keynes

Tonight 16th Oct: 

The Pad presents: Chas and Dave & The Ouse Valley Singles Club @ Bedford Corn Exchange, ST Paul's Square, Bedford. 7.30pm
Following on from the release of their brand new album 'That's what happens' on Warner Brothers Records, which entered the top 20 in it's first week and saw the duo Headline at the Royal Variety Show 2013, Chas and Dave are now on their 'on the road' tour. Chas and Dave began writing music and performing together in 1972, and have now recorded their first original album in 27 years- a mixture of vintage rock and roll songs and new renditions of their own classics. Due to public demand, they are now to be seen performing together on the stage again. Support comes from The Ouse Valley Singles Club. For more information visit www.thepadpresents.com

Tomorrow 17th Oct:

Barn Dance and concert- Singing for all with Cut a Caper @ The Carlton Club in Olney. 7.30pm

The night is raising money for 'Family Futures' for their 'Families in Crisis Fund'. Tickets are available in Wilson's, 84 High Street Olney and from choir members. Tickets are £10 for adults and £5 for children, to include a ploughman's supper. 

Gary Beckwith @ The Newport Pagnell Football Club. 8pm- late

Tickets cost £5.

Saturday 18th Oct:

Pink Party Disco for charity @ The Crown, Stoney Stratford. 7pm- midnight 

The pink party is being held to raise funds and awareness for the breast cancer unit at Milton Keynes hospital. Get your best pink party outfit on, you don't have to dress in pink but you'll have the chance of winning a prize for best dressed if you do. There'll be pink drinks, nibbles and cakes available to satisfy your thirst and hunger, as you dance the night away. Pink balloons and decorations will bring the room alive, and there will be various fundraising activities including a silent raffle. The evening is open to all over 18s, male and female, and entry is priced at £4 with all proceeds going straight to the cancer unit.     

Sunday 19th Oct:

Bletchley Park Presents Gary Ayton @ Bletchley Park. 
Gary Ayton is a Curator at the crime museum, which may not sound like much unless you know that it was once called the Black Museum... He has 30 years experience in the investigation of major crime and homicide and is a qualified trainer at the world-renowned Crime Academy. This event is now sold out but if you have managed to get tickets, it's set to be a great event.

Great Linford Apple Day @ Community Orchard, Loriner Place, Downs Barn, Milton Keynes. 12-3pm
Apple day is a chance to celebrate the apple and other traditional orchard fruits with apple pressing, bouncy castle, herb garden, games for the children and an apple product competition. Bring your apples to press into juice. A free event for all the family.

What's on this weekend

It's the weekend again (hooray!) and as always, there are plenty of events in and around the local area to keep you entertained. 

Saturday: 

Turvey Bloomers Apple Pressing Day @ Turvey Village Hall from 11am-2pm. 

Come along for a great free event at Turvey Village hall, with fresh and bottled apple juice, cider, breakfasts, ploughman's lunches, cakes, honey, bread and pies, all locally produced. There'll also be plants (to buy, not to eat!) and there'll be musical entertainment to enjoy along with your food and drink.

The Ancient Order of Foresters- Annual Charity Brunch @ The Harrold United Reformed Church from 10am-noon.

This event is being organised by Gill and Brian Hillier on behalf of The Ancient Order of Foresters, in aid of Sense for deaf-blind people. Come along and enjoy an English breakfast or danish pastry and tea or coffee, all for a donation. Enjoy the wonderful, foot-tapping sounds of the Bedford Ukulele group as you eat or drink. There will also be a raffle, cake stall and the chance to get in there early and buy some Christmas cards and wrapping paper.

Local Choirs and the Hospice sing @ Newport Pagnell Parish Church at 7.30pm.

Join the Newport Pagnell singers and the Cranfield based Sounds Familiar Community Choir in celebrating the role of the Hospices in our local communities. The concert is organised by the choirs in association with the Friends of Willen Hospice. Tickets cost £8.

Bark in the park @ Ouzel Valley Park at 10am.

The monthly dog-walking social is back, at just £1 per dog, come along and meet other dog walkers and enjoy a new dog-walking route. Walks typically last between 1-1.5 hours and involve on and off lead walking. Meet in the car park on Simpson Drive, off H9 Groveway. 

Saturday events in and around MK

Autumn may be officially here, but that doesn't mean that the events have stopped in the local area, far from it, there's another great selection of things to do this Saturday in and around Milton Keynes... 

Yardley Hastings Memorial Hall is holding a charity auction event, a 50/50 auction with goods accepted between 8.30am-1pm and viewing from 1-2pm. The auction itself starts at 2pm. Proceeds go to the village funds.

There's a Macmillan coffee morning being held at the Village Hall in Vicarage Lane, Denton from 10am-12 noon. Come and enjoy coffee, cakes and chat while raising money for a great cause. 

The Bedford Ukelele group are hosting a fun evening which will include a dinner of lasagne. Held at Lavendon Village Hall. 7pm for a 7.30pm start, tickets cost £15 for adults and £10 for children under 14. A great night of entertainment and food for all the family. 

and ALL WEEKEND:...

The MK Wedding show will be in Middleton hall in the centre:mk all weekend. A free event, there will be catwalks as well as numerous stalls showcasing everything you might need to help plan your big day. There will also be the first ever auction of wedding services, tonight at 6pm. If you're getting married soon and want some ideas and deals then don't miss out on this event!

As we mentioned on Thursday, Oktoberfest at the White Hart in Sherington is on this weekend, with a great selection of German foods and drinks, and music to enjoy with family and friends- don't forget your fancy dress! 

Macbeth at the Mill

How well acquainted with good old William Shakespeare are you? Is he the name linked to the painful hours spent studying at school not understanding what the seemingly made-up language meant? Or is he more of an idol for you, and key to the start of great theatre? Either way, why not experience a live production of Macbeth from the Sharnbrook mill theatre company? In celebration of 450 years since Shakespeare's birth, this production is set to be a powerful representation of the tragedy which is considered to be one of his darkest and powerful works.

If you have yet to be acquainted with Macbeth, or it's just been a while, let us remind you of the storyline... The play is set around a brave general named Macbeth, who receives a prophesy from some witches that he will one day become King of Scotland. This good, upright man allows blind ambition for this prophesy to come true lead him to arrogance, madness and eventually death. This is the shortest of Shakespeare's tragedies, and is being shown at 7.30pm from tonight-Saturday (15th-20th September)

Tickets are available by calling the box office on: 01234 718112, from the Sharnbrook Post Office or online here.

Row row row your boat- What's on this Weekend?

As well as the events on through part of the MK Heritage Open days today, there are also a number of other events on this weekend...

Saturday

The Olney model railway club exhibition will be held at the Carlton house Club in Olney from 10.30am-4.30pm. Come along to see layouts, trade support, society stands and refreshments. Adults cost £2.50 and a family of four is £6.  Visit the website for more information.

The Milton Keynes Regatta also takes place today, consisting of two lane racing over a 500 meter course, with a variety of events in all categories including rowing, sculling, junior, senior and masters events. Racing will begin at 8.30am until 5pm, so do come along and cheer the rowers on at the rowing club on Caldecotte lake.

In the evening, come along to St Laud's Church in Sherington at 7.30pm to hear 'Ed and friends' play a light and varied programme of instrumental and vocal music. Tickets are £8 and are available on the door or from John and Pam Fielding. The concert is being held in aid of Prostate Cancer UK and St Laud's Church.

Sunday

HULA have another of their popular fete and dog show's today, including a variety of activities such as dog classes for all, doggie games and a fun photo competition (bring your pet photos). There will be assorted stalls, fun and games for children, bazaar and book stall and delicious refreshments, and the opportunity to come and meet the resident farm animals. Admission is £2 for adults and £1 for children, with all proceeds going to the care and welfare of HULA's animals. visit the website for more information.

Part of the Milton Keynes Heritage Weekend includes the medieval family fun day at Milton Keynes discovery centre, Bradwell Abbey, from 11am-4pm. The day will include a variety of hands-on activities, such as archery, birds of prey, medieval re-enactors and encampment, face painting, arts and crafts and more. There will be a great selection of refreshments, including hog roast, tea/coffee and cakes.

Visit the Cowpers Oak Country Pub and dining room from 4pm to enjoy 'last of the summer tapas'- enjoy some tapas and sangria as we say goodbye to summer!

Luther Vandross tribute tomorrow night

Live and direct from the USA, Luther Vandross and the legends of soul, featuring Dave Lee Andrews, comes to Milton Keynes this Saturday, (16th August) at the Stantonbury Arts and Leisure centre. With classic hits from the likes of Alexander O'Neil, Lionel Richie and George Benson and supporting DJ who will provide dance tunes from the last 5 decades, it's sure to be a great night.

The event kicks off at 7.30pm and goes on into the night until midnight. If you fancy a dance, love soul music or are just interested in having a look, come along to the event tomorrow night. Tickets cost £10, and if you haven't already, you can book online here.

Dress Code smart casual, over 25s only.

For a glimpse at the music on offer, have a look at the video below:

Proms in the Park- tomorrow night

The highly anticipated event is back for another year, tomorrow night (15th August) in Campbell Park. The proms in the park is a great evening for all, gates open at 6.30pm for 8pm start and costs £12 per adult and £8 for children, or £32 for a family of four.

Run by the Parks Trust and Milton Keynes City Orchestra, there will be a great evening of uplifting music including classical favourites and spectacular fireworks. It's a great, family-friendly event, and will be located in the amphitheatre at Campbell park.

There won't be any parking available in the park itself, so you will need to use other local parking if bringing a car. Close car parks include the Centre:mk and the MK theatre multi-storey.

Don't miss this great summer evening of entertainment!

MK proms in the Park- Soloists announced

Over 1500 tickets have already been sold for the upcoming Proms in the Park at Campbell Park next Friday 15th August. It's set to be a great evening of entertainment presented by the parks Trust and Milton Keynes Orchestra, with uplifting music, fireworks and fizz.

The soloists have now been announced, and under the baton of MKCO, founder Hilary Davan Wetton, the Orchestra will be joined on stage by two wonderful soloists. These will be: James Cleverton, a baritone who is in great demand across the globe and has sung in well-known roles in operatic productions and in concert for spectacular concerts in locations including the Royal Albert Hall and other key venues. Also, soprano Emily Haig will be performing, who was at the MK Proms last year and wowed the crowds with her beautiful voice and charming performance. 

James will perform the witty Largo al factotum from the Barber of Seville and the rousing Toreador song from Carmen. Emily will r perform Vissi d’arte from Tosca and You’ll never walk alone from Carousel. They will duet in the seductive La ci darem la mano from Don Giovanni and lead the chorus of Rule Britannia and Land of Hope and Glory.

The Orchestra will play the classic Dambusters march and the Can Can, to name just two, and there will be a fantastic firework display to end the night. It's definitely one not to be missed! Look out for another blog coming your way onThursday with more information. 

Art in the Park

'Art in the park' is FREE family event happening this weekend in Campbell Park, Milton Keynes. It's organised by Islamic Arts, Heritage and Culture Milton Keynes, and is a cultural event celebrating the festival of Eid. The event aims to help build bridges between diverse communities through arts and culture, and there'll be a great deal going on for all the family to get involved with.

Events across the weekend run along a variety of artistic themes, including the 'art of integration' and the 'art of food', as well as workshops and much more. There will be a fairground, and exciting live music from a variety of bands including: Rhythmnreel and Bollywood brass to name just two. There will be an exciting 'digital wall' which will provide live interaction with exciting artists from around the globe. 'Arts of Food' will include some mouth-watering food demonstrations from TV chef Cyrus Todiwala OBE and a team of talented chefs.

Ultimately, this event aims to promote art and culture through education, encouraging more people to take an active interest and learn more about the cultures around them. Islamic art is filled with unusual geometry, pattern and colour, and this event gives all an opportunity to discover and find out more about the art.

Art in the Park is set to be a great couple of days, and is open Saturday 2nd August from 1pm until 7pm, and Sunday 3rd 1pm until 6pm, don't miss out!

(Please note: there is no public parking in Campbell park, the nearest car parks are at Centre:MK or theatre multi-storey; SatNav postcode for that is MK9 3NZ.)

Au revoir MKIF 2014!

Today brings us to the end of the Milton Keynes International Festival, and what a great 10 days it has been! We hope you were able to get along to one of the many events that have been on offer throughout the festival, and made the most of the great weather we've had for it!

One of the highlights for many was the 'Iltopie: Fous de Bassin' (water fools), where Willen Lake was lit up with fire and taken over by people and vehicles walking across the water. There was a bit of confusion with seating, it turned out you didn't really need a ticket to see the show, and yet some who had bought tickets ended up sitting where they could hardly see. Despite that, and the thunderstorms which took place during the shows (adding to the effects!), it was a great event, something unusual and definitely not something you see everyday- showing a good example of what the international festival has been about. It was an interesting show, especially when the car caught fire and people were voicing questions of whether it was meant to happen or not! (don't worry, it was!)

This was just one of the many events which was part of the festival, and there were lots of other amazing events and activities taking place. Gigs in the Spiegeltent have been sold out for much of the festival, and the Architects of Air's Pentalum in Middleton Hall has been popular throughout, drawing large crowds to both visit and enjoy music and classes within the luminarium. The lock shift songs is another of the more bizarre parts to the festival (although it's all a bit quirky really!) and has also been particularly popular with shoppers in centre:mk. If you haven't managed to pay it a visit, it's there today as well so do pop by if you are in the centre! Have a look at the official website to what what else is still on today if you fancy getting involved for the last few hours of the festival!

We hope you enjoyed this year's International Festival, we at the Phonebox Magazine certainly did and we can't wait to see what will be in store for next year!