97 things to do in Bristol in February

MUSIC

February 1: NME Awards Tour 2016, O2 Academy
Bloc Party, Sound of 2016 nom Rat Boy, Manc grime artist Bugzy Malone and alt-rock band Drenge.
www.academymusicgroup.com/o2academybristol/events/781227

February 9: Slum Village, The Lantern
The Detroit rap veterans and friends of De La Soul return to the scene to tour their latest LP.
www.colstonhall.org/shows/slum-village

February 9: Little Simz, O2 Academy
She’s fast becoming one of the most lyrically creative and sought after MCs in the country.
www.academymusicgroup.com/o2academybristol/events/783191/little-simz-tickets

February 10: The Game, O2 Academy
The Compton rapper returns to the UK to tour the collector’s edition of The Documentary 2.
www.academymusicgroup.com/o2academybristol/events/791543/game-tickets

February 12-14: 6 Music Festival, various venues
Bristol’s music event of the year, with Underworld, Foals, Laura Marling, Guy Garvey and many more.
www.bbc.co.uk/events/eq6c8g

February 13: Bristol24/7 presents the Fringe, The Fleece & Attic
A free entry, all day showcase curated by Bristol24/7 featuring an ‘editor’s pick’ of local musical talent.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/music-01/indiealternative/bristol247-presents-the-6music-festival-fringe-the-fleece

February 17: Ryley Walker and Danny Thompson, St George’s
Much-anticipated collaboration between two of contemporary folk’s finest artists.
www.stgeorgesbristol.co.uk/event/ryley-walker-danny-thompson

February 18: Seckou Keita, St George’s
The Senegalese kora master plays a show opened by Welsh singer Gwyneth Glynn.
www.stgeorgesbristol.co.uk/event/seckou-keita-22-strings-plus-gwyneth-glynn

February 20: Eskimo Dance, O2 Academy
The legendary grime event returns after two sell-out shows in 2015.
www.academymusicgroup.com/o2academybristol/events/798005/eskimo-dance-tickets

February 23: Otava Yo, The Lantern
Subversive energy and surreal wit all the way from Russia.
www.colstonhall.org/shows/otava-yo 

CLUBS

February 4: Sigma and Culture Shock, SWX
Culture Shock joins the prolific drum and bass producers as they tour their first album, Life.
swxbristol.com/sigma-culutre-shock-thursday-4th-february

February 5: And What? Launch Party, Basement 45
The grime, garage and bassline authority brings its club night to Bristol for the first time ever.
www.facebook.com/events/1152716061424314/1161565853872668

February 6: Just Jack 10th Birthday, Motion
A secret lineup from one of Bristol’s best-loved party brands – you can trust it’ll be special.
www.motionbristol.com/event/just-jack-10th-birthday

February 9: Wide Eyes, Lakota
Black Buttery’s Woz lights up the Stokes Croft club night mecca for the last of the Wide Eyes series.
www.lakota.co.uk/events-tickets/258-wide-eyes-w-woz

February 12: FunkinEven, The Island
Piff and Shall Not Fade present the London producer in all his eclectic glory.
www.theislandbristol.com/event/piff-snf-present-funkineven

February 20: Tokyo World, Motion
This Tokyo World may well be the last in a club, with live bands and DJs from across the spectrum.
www.motionbristol.com/event/tokyo-world-2016-festival-launch

February 29: Emancipator, Marble Factory
Portland-based electronic producer Doug Appling serves smooth samples and spine-tingling mixes.
www.motionbristol.com/event/emancipator

FILM

February 4: Royal Opera House Live: La Traviata
A live screening of Richard Eyre’s tradition staging of the Verdi opera.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/film-01/event-cinema/royal-opera-house-la-traviata

February 8: The Cowards Who Looked to the Sky + Q&A, Watershed
Screening of the Japanese surburban film followed by a panel with the director.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/film-01/drama/the-cowards-who-looked-to-the-sky-qa

February 15: An Evening of Animation, Hen & Chicken
An opportunity to see the entries to the annual Do It in Ten contest, with the announcement of the winner.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/film-01/animation/show-me-the-animation-presents-do-it-in-ten?time=1455494400

February 15: TED 2016: Dream – Opening Night Live, Vue Cribbs Causeway & Showcase Cinema De Lux
Opening night of the annual meeting of minds is broadcast live from Vancouver for the first time ever.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/film-01/event-cinema/ted-2016-dream

February 20: Aaaaaaah! + Q&A, Club Häus
A screening of the promising horror comedy starring Noel Fielding and Q&A with the director.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/film-01/horror/aaaaaaaah

February 23: Renoir: The Unknown Artist, Vue Cribbs Causeway
An Exhibition on Screen documentary biography discussing the impressionist’s revered later work.
Get Vue tickets for just £5

February 24: Science in the Cinema, Cube
Bristol University experts give talks on the representation of science in film, followed by Gattaca.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/film-01/science-fiction/science-in-the-cinema-gattaca

February 25: NT Live: As You Like It, various cinemas
Shakespeare’s glorious comedy of love streamed live to screens across the country.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/film-01/event-cinema/nt-live-as-you-like-it

February 27: Stand Up Picture Show, Cube
Live stand up comedy followed by a screening of Galaxy Quest starring Alan Rickman.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/film-01/comedy/galaxy-quest-live-stand-up 

FESTIVALS AND FAIRS

February 6: Record and CD Fair, Colston Hall Foyer
The biggest record fair in the South West, spread over three floors with over 70 dealers.
www.colstonhall.org/shows/record-and-cd-fair-2

February 6: Chinese New Year, Wai Yee Hong
Expect traditional Chinese firecrackers and a lion dance troupe showing off incredible kung fu skills.
www.waiyeehong.com/chinese-new-year-2016-bristol

February 6 & 7: Chinese New Year, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
Traditional and contemporary performances, stalls, workshops and activities for all the family.
www.bristolmuseums.org.uk/bristol-museum-and-art-gallery/whats-on/chinese-new-year-monkey

February 12: Special Night Market, St Nick’s
A mix of Bristol’s best street food and drinks alongside local bands and performers.
www.facebook.com/events/975103892573415

February 12-14: 6 Music Festival, various venues
Three days of live music and much more, with 6 Music broadcasting live from the Trinity.
www.bristol247.com/channel/culture/music/festivals/bristol-6-music-festival-line-up-released

February 20: Tokyo World, Motion
This Tokyo World may well be the last in a club, with live bands and DJs from across the spectrum.
www.motionbristol.com/event/tokyo-world-2016-festival-launch

February 20-21: LGBT History Festival, M Shed
Speakers from all over the country will share their latest research and personal stories.
www.bristolmuseums.org.uk/m-shed/whats-on/lgbt-history-festival

February 26-March 26: Bath Literature Festival, various venues
A stellar lineup of writers including Alice Roberts, Brian Blessed and Gloria Steinem.
www.bathfestivals.org.uk/literature 

FOOD & DRINK

February 2: Moor Beer Dinner, The Adam & Eve
Showcasing the best vegan friendly beers Moor have to offer alongside five courses of vegan foods.
www.adamandeve.pub/events/

February 2-20: Lovett Pies pop-up, The Hillgrove
Get your fill of some seriously tasty gourmet pies stuffed full of local ingredients at this three-week pop-up.
www.lovettpies.com/#/home/4557797305

February 3: Guest Chef Night, Casamia
The first guest chef night at Casamia’s new home welcomes Atul Kochhar of Benares restaurant in London.
www.casamiarestaurant.co.uk/news/casamia-guest-chef-nights-2016-revealed

February 4-7: Brandon BeerFest
The Bag of Nails, Hope & Anchor and Eldon House join forces for a series of special events and beer.
#beeronbrandon

February 6: Port, Cheese and Chocolate Tasting, Bristol Wine School
A relaxed, tutored tasting of the best in artisan cheese and chocolate, with fine port to accompany.
Get Tickets

February 11: Gin and Tonic Tasting, Bristol Wine School
Discover some fine botanicals and enjoy a cucumber sandwich or two to keep you going.
Get Tickets

February 13: Fanny and Johnnie Cook the Great American Songbook, MV Balmoral
Part theatre, part comedy and part three-course-meal as prepared by the stars of the show.  
www.whitefunnel.co.uk/p-478-dine-with-the-cradocks-alternative-valentines-2016

February 14: Valentine’s Day Menu, Adelina Yard
The newly-opened eatery offers an eight-course menu especially for lovers – or people who like good food.
www.twitter.com/AdelinaYard/status/687309524185804803

EVENTS

February 2-6: The Last Tango, Hippodrome
Strictly Come Dancing stars Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace perform their ultimate farewell show.
www.atgtickets.com/shows/the-last-tango/bristol-hippodrome

February 4: Life on the Edge, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
Explorer Benedict Allenshares some highlights from an extraordinary life as an adventurer.
www.bristolmuseums.org.uk/bristol-museum-and-art-gallery/whats-on/winter-lecture-life-on-the-edge

February 5: That Was Fun, Circomedia
Different theatre forms combine with traditional circus to create a fresh and exciting performance.
www.circomedia.com/events-at-st-pauls-church.html

February 5: Bristol 2015 closing ceremony, Colston Hall
Celebrate Bristol’s year as European Green Capital and learn about initiatives planned for 2016.
www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/bristol-2015-closing-ceremony-tickets-20477450606

February 6: The Hobbs Show, Passenger Shed
The night of fashion, performance and spectacular hair returns to its original home for the last time.
Get Tickets

February 6: Let’s Dance, The Loco Klub
Celebrating David Bowie with a showing of Labyrinth followed by a party where fancy dress is compulsory.
www.facebook.com/events/889226714523845/

February 6-29: Window Wanderland, across Bristol
Look up the website to find out when the magical light trail is coming to your area.
windowwanderland.wordpress.com/coming-soon

February 7: Ride It, Hengrove Park
A choice of cycle routes and distances, from 15 to 70 miles, as well as mechanical support along the way.
www.facebook.com/events/630870580349838

February 12: After Hours: SEX, At-Bristol
At-Bristol’s adult-only evening is back with a scientific look at all things amorous.
www.at-bristol.org.uk/event/after-hours-sex

February 12 & 13: Hot Dates with the Past, Red Lodge
Join Tom Marshman (above) for a steamy night weaving through the truths and fictions of dating history.
www.bristolmuseums.org.uk/red-lodge-museum/whats-on/hot-dates-with-the-past

THEATRE

February 1, 15 & 29: Closer Each Day, Wardrobe Theatre
The wildly successful fortnightly improvised soap opera returns for its eleventh season.
www.thewardrobetheatre.com/livetheatre/closer-each-day-the-improvised-soap-opera

February 2-4: Regeneration, Wardrobe Theatre
Drama exploring urban regeneration, gentrification and how we might create the cities of the future.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/theatre-01/new-writing/regeneration-wardrobe-theatre-bristol?time=1454371200

February 3-6: The Dog and the Elephant, Bristol Old Vic
The true story of bare-knuckle boxer Bendigo Barlow and his friendship with an elephant.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/theatre-01/new-writing/the-dog-and-the-elephant-bristol-old-vic

February 5-6: The Hours Before We Wake, Wardrobe Theatre
New Bristol outfit Tremolo Theatre bring their sharp dystopian comedy to the Wardrobe Theatre.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/theatre-01/new-writing/the-hours-before-we-wake-tremolo-theatre

February 7: Bristol Open Stage, Bristol Old Vic
All-dayer inviting everyone to share their interpretation of Bristol’s imaginative spirit.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/theatre-01/make-your-own-story/bristol-open-stage?time=1454803200

February 8: Missing Pieces: Girls, Bristol Old Vic
Monthly script readings showcasing Black-British, Caribbean and African plays.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/theatre-01/new-writing/missing-pieces-girls-bristol-old-vic

February 9-13: An Elephant in the Garden, Bristol Old Vic
Adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s wartime-set young adult novel.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/theatre-01/family/an-elephant-in-the-garden-bristol

February 10: The Vagina Monologues, Alma Theatre
A charity performance of the world-renowned play by Bristol Medics Drama Society.
www.almataverntheatre.co.uk/theatre/what-s-on

February 10-14: The Odyssey, Circomedia
Homer’s epic poem retold in a dance theatre production from the team behind the award-winning Dracula.
www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com/shows/the-odyssey

February 11-April 30: Hamlet, Factory Theatre
400 years since the bard’s death, Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory present his most famous play.
www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com/shows/hamlet

February 16: Thriller Live, Hippodrome
A visual and audial journey through Michael Jackson’s life and repertoire.
www.atgtickets.com/shows/thriller-live-2/bristol-hippodrome

February 16-20: Cinderella: The Cillit Bang Years, Alma Theatre
Comic thrills and spills courtesy of Bristol’s Stepping Out Theatre.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/theatre-01/comedy/cinderella-the-cillit-bang-years-alma-tavern-theatre-bristol

February 16-March 5: Pink Mist, Bristol Old Vic
The story of three young Bristol men deployed to Afghanistan.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/theatre-01/new-writing/pink-mist-bristol-old-vic

February 17-20: i know all the secrets in my world, Bristol Old Vic
Moving new work by British African theatre company exploring loss, grief and masculinity.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/theatre-01/new-writing/i-know-all-the-secrets-in-my-world-bristol

February 28: Sharp Teeth, Wardrobe Theatre
Monthly music, theatre, storytelling and poetry night featuring talented up-and-coming performers.
www.thewardrobetheatre.com/livetheatre/sharp-teeth

COMEDY

February 3: Paddy McGuinness, Colston Hall
The Take Me Out host, star of Phoenix Nights and former Club 18-30 rep embarks on a brand new tour.
www.colstonhall.org/shows/paddy-mcguinness

February 6: Katherine Ryan, Colston Hall
The sharp-tongued American comedian has a whole loads of new insults, and she’s not afraid to use them.
www.colstonhall.org/shows/katherine-ryan-kathbum

February 7: Robert Newman, The Lantern
He volunteered for an experiment to locate the part of the brain that lights up when you’re in love.
www.colstonhall.org/shows/robert-newman

February 12: Chuckle Busters, Wardrobe Theatre
A monthly mix of big names in stand-up comedy alongside handpicked local talent.
ww.thewardrobetheatre.com/livetheatre/chuckle-busters

February 14: Tony Law: Frillemorphesis, Factory Theatre
The Telegraph called him “one of the most delightfully zany and disconcerting comedians around.”
www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com/shows/tony-law-frillemorphesis

February 18: Alun Cochrane, The Lantern
The Scottish comic talks manliness, womanliness, hobbies, ageing, fighting and perfume.
www.colstonhall.org/shows/alun-cochrane-2

February 18: Sean McLoughlin, Hen & Chicken
A calamitous year in his life has led to an hour of side-splitting comedy – do him a favour.
www.thecomedybox.co.uk/site/301.asp?catID=1352

February 22: Cold Mountain – Andy Kirkpatrick, St George’s
The unique storyteller and comedian takes audiences on his latest trip to Antarctica for his hardest climb ever.
www.stgeorgesbristol.co.uk/event/andy-kirkpatricks-cold-mountain

February 23: #JC4PM, Colston Hall
Billy Bragg, Shappi Khorsandi and more celebrate the new politics of one Jeremy Corbyn.
www.colstonhall.org/shows/jc4pm

February 27: Stand Up Picture Show, Cube
Live stand up comedy followed by a screening of Galaxy Quest starring Alan Rickman.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/film-01/comedy/galaxy-quest-live-stand-up

February 28: No Such Thing as a Fish, Factory Theatre
The QI Elves hit the road with their wildly successful podcast serving up the best of QI factoids.
www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com/shows/no-such-thing-as-a-fish-with-the-q-i-elves

ART

February 1-27: Love Letters, Room 212
Valentine’s-themed exhibition at Gloucester Road’s prolific and ever-popular community artspace.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/art-01/exhibitions/love-letters-room-212-bristol

February 2-6: A Celebration of the Natural World, Paintworks
A heart-warming exhibition of artwork by children from local primary schools, inspired by mother nature.
www.paintworksbristol.co.uk/index.php

February 5-21: Jones, Mercier, Evans and Edwards, Gallery TwentyTwo
New gallery kicks off with an exhibition from a distinguished quartet of Jamaica Street artists. 
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/art-01/exhibitions/elaine-jones-anouk-mercier-karen

February 6: I Am Making Art: Painted Object, Spike Island
Explore the stories and textures inherent in objects in this workshop led by artist Victoria Coombes.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/art-01/workshop/i-am-making-art-painted-object-spik

February 13: Art History Day School, RWA
Featuring four London painters: Frank Auerback, Francis Bacon, Prunella Clough and Lucian Freud.
www.rwa.org.uk/whats-on/events/2016/02/fourlondonpainters

February 13: Behind the Scenes Studio Visits, Spike Island
Chat with artists based at Spike, explore their studios and view works-in-progress.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/art-01/open-studios/behind-the-scenes-spike-island-julian-claxton

February 16: Legends of Rock, Steam Cafe
A new photography exhibition documenting three decades of rock royalty.
www.facebook.com/events/938848909503337

February 20: Introduction to Printmaking, InBristol Studios
Learn and explore a range of simple lino and screen printing techniques.
www.floraarbuthnott.com/simple-printmaking-workshops

February 27: The Sea Inside, Arnolfini
Panel discussion on the symbolism of the ocean inspired by John Akomfrah’s Vertigo Sea exhibition.
www.arnolfini.org.uk/whatson/the-sea-inside-panel-discussion

BOOKS

February 4: We Are Here, Arnolfini
The refugee collective joins audiences via live-stream to discuss protest and poetry.
www.arnolfini.org.uk/whatson/open-reading-group-with-we-are-here

February 4: Harry Potter Night, Foyles
A range of Potter-themed activities to celebrate almost twenty years of Hogwarts magic.
www.foyles.co.uk/Public/Events/Detail.aspx?eventId=2736

February 8: Missing Pieces: Girls, Bristol Old Vic
Monthly script readings showcasing Black-British, Caribbean and African plays.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/theatre-01/new-writing/missing-pieces-girls-bristol-old-vic

February 15: Blahblahlah: Love, Bristol Old Vic
The best poetic voices from across the UK come together to argue for and against romantic love.
www.bristololdvic.org.uk/blahlove.html

February 26-March 26: Bath Literature Festival, various venues
A stellar lineup of writers including Alice Roberts, Brian Blessed and Gloria Steinem.
www.bathfestivals.org.uk/literature 

FAMILY

February 1: Take It On – Costume Design, Factory Studio
The last in a series of specialist stage skill classes for kids age 10-13.
www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com/shows/take-it-on-costume-design-2

February 7: Jungle Love, Baggator
The jungle rave for party people and their grown-ups returns with a special Valentine’s edition.
www.facebook.com/events/1720153428219744

February 8-14: The Star Seekers, Wardrobe Theatre
Delightful astronomical adventures from the Wardrobe Ensemble for ages 3-8.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/theatre-01/childrens-2/the-star-seekers-bristol

February 11-12: Albee Vector the Sound Collector, Bristol Old Vic
A journey of sound and discovery for children aged three and over.
www.bristol247.com/channel/whats-on/theatre-01/family/albee-vector-the-sound-collector-bristol