What's on in Reading this month

February is a shorter month – but it’s not short on things to do here in Reading. From orchestral and classical concerts to big name comedians, local music showcases to top tribute acts, the postponed Reading Lantern Parade and – of course – lots of fun for half-term, there’s plenty to keep you entertained this month. So check out our highlights of What’s On in Reading in February – and, as always, don’t forget to check whatsonreading.com for so much more!

The Maids – till 8 February

Jean Genet’s classic play has scandalised audiences since 1947. Inspired by the real murders committed by the Papin sisters, the loose lines between fantasy and reality blur with breathtaking consequences. This spectacle of rage and revenge explodes into Reading Rep Theatre after a sell-out run in London last month.

Varna International Ballet – 2 & 3 February

Founded in 1947, the critically acclaimed Varna International Ballet returns to The Hexagon following a breathtaking debut tour. This year, they’ll be performing two beloved ballets – The Nutcracker on 2 Feb and Swan Lake on 3 Feb, both featuring acclaimed international dancers and a live orchestra.

Cracking Comedy  - various dates

There’s all kinds of comedy to Reading this month. Just The Tonic presents the likes of Josh Berry on 6 Feb and Angelos Epithimou on 15 Feb; at South Street, you can catch the likes of Ed Patrick on 8 Feb, Rob Newman on 14 Feb and Ahir Shah on 26 Feb, plus musical comedy from Jonny & The Baptists on 22 Feb; and there’s monthly shows from plenty of our local comedy clubs, too.

Top Tributes – various dates

Even better than the real thing? There’s plenty of top tribute action to suit all tastes this month. Pama International perform the Trojan Songbook at Sub89 on 7 Feb; the King of Pop comes to The Hexagon on 16 Feb in Michael Starring Ben (Bowman); Straighten Out serve up the sound of The Stranglers on 22 Feb; and Limehouse Lizzy have added a second show of Thin Lizzy classics on 28 Feb after selling out South Street on 27 Feb!

Sing-a-long screenings – various dates

Want to sing-a-long with your favourite movie musicals? Sing-a-Long-a are back at The Hexagon on 8 Feb with two firm family faves – Encanto at 2pm and The Greatest Showman at 7pm, complete with on-screen lyrics, props and even dance moves! And on 23 Feb, defy conformity and sing along with the biggest musical of the season with a special screening of Wicked. 

Where Is The Sun? – 8 February

The Rising Sun Arts Centre present a wintery companion to their summer festival “Here Comes The Sun”. Where Is The Sun features two stages of live music – folkie acoustic stuff upstairs, bands and electronica downstairs – boasting some of the most interesting acts in the local scene, and all raising money for this wonderful local venue.

Hooked on Classics? – various dates

Some of the very best classical music is on your doorstep in Reading, and there’s plenty to enjoy this month. There’s orchestral concerts from Aldworth Philharmonic Orchestra and West Forest Sinfonia, bringing full-scale performances to The Great Hall, while The Concert Hall you can enjoy the winter concert from Reading Symphony Orchestra and chamber music from Orsino Ensemble. North of the river, Virtuoso pianist  Ariel Lanyi performs for Concerts In Caversham. And if you want to dip your toes in opera, The Hexagon hosts Opera International's award-winning Ellen Kent production of Madama Butterfly, featuring the Ukrainian Opera.

Choral concerts – 8 February

Nowt as choir as folk – and three of our local choirs will be in full voice on 8 Feb! Reading Festival Chorus perform Rossini’s Petite Messe Solennelle at Wesley Church, Reading Phoenix Choir “Sing to the Moon” at Christ Church Reading, and Reading Male Voice Choir are at Christ Church Woodley, joined by Time To Sing choir.

Chinese New Year Celebration - 9 February

To celebrate the Year of Snake, Reading Chinese School, in partnership with Reading Borough Council, BID and local schools and communities, are bringing you a whole day celebration event at Reading Town Hall. Activities include traditional Chinese Workshops, festival street parade, wonderful outdoor performances and a brilliant live performance at Reading Concert Hall.

Valentine Cabaret Shows – 14 & 22 February

Two of our town’s local burlesque cabaret troupes are bringing a pair of shows themed around Valentine’s Day that may prove to be the perfect date (for your diary). On 14 Feb, it’s D'Lecter Cabaret's Valentine Special - a night of dark and seductive entertainment – at Sub89. And on 22 Feb, The Scarlet Vixens are back in the Purple Turtle basement for love-filled night of burlesque, drag, song and more!

Reading GLOW Lantern Parade – 15 February

After being postponed due to the December winds, the Reading Lantern Parade will now take place on 15 Feb, bringing an evening of love and light to Reading town centre. Bring your loved ones and experience the magic of hundreds of beautifully crafted lanterns glowing in the night. Whether you’re celebrating with a partner, family or friends, this illuminated parade with drumming and music is the perfect way to make your Valentine’s weekend unforgettable.

Half-Term fun for kids – 15-23 February

The February half-term brings all manner of events and activities for kids and families. If you want things to see, there’s shows at South Street featuring the pigs, bears and lots of bubbles. Things to do? Try activities and crafts and LEGO at Reading Town Hall, Reading Museum and Reading Libraries or music classes from Kindermusik with Sarah – and much more! There’s even a chance for young readers to meet bestselling author A.F. Steadman, writer of the Skandar series, at Waterstones Reading to celebrate the paperback release of Skandar and the Chaos Trials!