This January, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire come alive with an incredible array of experiences. From Broadway sensations like Dear Evan Hansen in Milton Keynes to the soulful artistry of Yinka Shonibare in Greenham, our roundup showcases the very best of culture, entertainment, and creativity.
For years, we’ve been your trusted source for comprehensive guides to what’s happening in your area. Whether it’s theatre productions, live music, or exhibitions, we know where to look and what to highlight to ensure you don’t miss out. Let us guide you through an exciting start to 2025 in Berkshire and Buckinghamshire.
Things to do in Buckinghamshire and Berkshire
Dear Evan Hansen
Dates: 28 January-1 February
Venue: MK Theatre
The international sensation Dear Evan Hansen makes its debut in Milton Keynes this January, featuring a book by Steven Levenson and music and lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. Meet Evan: an anxious high school kid who wants nothing more than to fit in. The thing is, on his way to fitting in, he didn’t tell the whole truth. And now must give up on a life he never dreamt he’d have. As events spiral and the truth comes out, Evan faces a reckoning with himself and everyone around him.
Live Forever
Dates: 18 January
Venue: The Hexagon
Oasis, Britain’s greatest rock ‘n’ roll band, will have its backstory explored on stage next year in the first production of its kind, Live Forever, where audiences will be transported back to the 90s to the very beginning of the iconic band’s story. The show follows Oasis’ meteoric rise to fame; from their humble beginnings on a south Manchester council estate, to becoming the biggest band on the planet.
Get your tickets at What’s On Reading
Street Food Evening
Dates: 31 January
Events: The Walled Garden
Experience a flavourful evening at The Walled Garden in Buckinghamshire. From 5-9pm, indulge in a diverse culinary experience with some of the best local food trucks. Savor the offerings from Burgervore, Mad Macs and Bombayish as they serve up their signature dishes ranging from hearty burgers, exotic Indian flavours and cheesy delights.
View at The West Wycombe Walled Garden
Women in Rock
Dates: 19 January
Events: Theatre Royal Windsor
The critically acclaimed Women in Rock UK tour is coming to Windsor for one night only, and this is a rock concert unlike any other. Celebrating the sensationally strong female leaders of rock, including Blondie, Suzi Q, Janis Joplin, Heart, Joan Jett, Pink, Kiki Dee, Bonnie Tyler, Cher and so many more. With a cast of world-class musicians and vocalists that deliver a blistering 2-hour performance, you’ll be singing, dancing and rocking out from the off with hit after hit.
Book your tickets at Theatre Royal Windsor
Gladiator II
Dates: 24-26 January
Venue: South Hill Park Arts Centre
From Director Ridley Scott comes the sequel to the original huge hit back in 2000. After his home is conquered by the tyrannical emperors who now lead Rome, Lucius is forced to enter the Colosseum and must look to his past to find strength to return the glory of Rome to its people. A sword and sandal sequel with relentless, thrilling and visceral action scenes.
Get tickets at South Hill Park Arts Centre
GENerate: Student Art Exhibition
Dates: 10 January-26 January
Venue: The Base Greenham
Marvel at the next GENeration of artists’ creations. Featuring artworks created by students from local schools, sixth forms and colleges, this curated exhibition showcases and celebrates the imagination and creativity of young artists. Participating education settings include: Basingstoke College of Technology, Cheam School, Downe House School, Elstree School, iCollege Alternative Education, Mary Hare School, St Bartholomew’s School, St Gabriel’s School, Trinity School and University Centre Newbury.
Ghost the Musical
Dates: 28 January-1 February
Venue: Wycombe Swan
After Sam’s tragic murder, he seeks to save his grieving girlfriend Molly with help from a quirky psychic. Featuring Unchained Melody and songs by Eurythmics’ Dave Stewart, this Oscar-winning story comes to life at Wycombe Swan this month.
Get your tickets at Trafalgar Tickets
Yinka Shonibare
Dates: 31 January-23 February
Venue: The Base, Greenham
The Base, Greenham will host Ritual Ecstasy of the Modern, a vibrant and thought-provoking exhibition by internationally acclaimed artist Yinka Shonibare CBE. On loan from the prestigious Cristea Roberts Gallery, London, this extraordinary collection will be on display in The Base Greenham’s Gallery from Friday 31st January to Sunday 23rd February, offering visitors a rare chance to engage with Shonibare’s innovative and evolving printmaking practice.
This captivating exhibition explores Shonibare’s central themes of race, class and cultural identity, delving into the historical and cultural entanglements between Africa and Europe. It features his most recent woodblock prints, which are rich with bold, contemporary energy, alongside earlier works that reimagine motifs such as the all-American cowboy and symbols of the British Empire. Together, these pieces form a striking narrative that challenges traditional histories and encourages reflection on identity in today’s interconnected world.
Shonibare, a Turner Prize nominee, is renowned for his multidisciplinary approach across painting, sculpture, photography and film. Born in London in 1962 and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, he now lives and works in London, where his art continues to question and redefine cultural and national identities. Describing himself as a ‘post-colonial hybrid’, Shonibare creates work that is as visually dynamic as it is intellectually engaging.
This exhibition is a unique opportunity to experience the artistry of a globally celebrated artist who has exhibited in some of the world’s most prestigious spaces, in the comfort of an intimate gallery space.
Book tickets at The Base Greenham
How Absolutely Picks the Best for You
At Absolutely Magazines, we pride ourselves on curating only the finest recommendations for our refined readers. Our editors leverage their extensive expertise in lifestyle journalism to ensure that every selection meets the highest standards of quality and relevance. From scouring local insider tips to understanding trends and feedback, we leave no stone unturned in identifying the most exceptional venues for you. Guided by an appreciation for your taste, we prioritise venues and events that epitomise luxury, style, and premium experiences. You can trust us to bring you the Absolute best, every time.
