Luke Jackson is a young roots singer/songwriter who in 2013 was nominated in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards for both the Horizon Award for Best Emerging Talent and The Young Folk Category. Following numerous shows around the UK making a name for himself playing solo for the last few years, opening for artists such as Marillion, Show of Hands, Martyn Joseph and more, Luke is now back on the road with his trio.

Luke Jackon Trio are performing at Artrix Studio on Saturday 31st October at 7.30 pm.

Birmingham’s Raymond Froggatt has been a stalwart of the music industry for over fifty years. His songs have been recorded by many artists including Cliff Richard, Dave Clarke Five (who reached the top ten with Red Balloon) Gladys Knight and the Byrds. Froggie continues to entertain his audiences with his much-loved songs and funny anecdotes about his incredible career.

Raymond Froggatt will be performing at Artrix on Sunday 1st November at 7.30 pm. Tickets cost £20.00

Performing a comedy routine on stage might scare the wits out of most people, but for others it could be the start of a brilliant career. Thankfully a new series of workshops at Artrix gives would-be comedians a chance to have a go at performing.

Theo’s Comedy Skool has become a regular feature on Artrix’ programme in recent years, turning out a host of new comics who have gone on to develop their fledgling careers at venues around the region.

Run by local comedian and poet, Theo Theobald, the five-week programme, which starts on 3rd November, covers every aspect of the comedy stage, from writing and rehearsal, through to performance; the workshop includes a live show in front of a real audience on Saturday December 5th.

For details of Theo’s Comedy Skool, call the Artrix Box office on 01527 577330, book online at www.artrix.co.uk or for more information, email Theo direct on [email protected]

There’s also plenty for families during half term. A fun-filled family musical about a friendly koala is one of the highlights at Artrix during half-term week.

Based on the book How the Koala Learnt to Hug by Steven Lee, this charming production is all about the importance of family, and of course a nice warm hug. Little koalas will love meeting Natascha the Witch, the reggae beavers and of course Karen the Koala and taking part in some sing-along songs and games. All you need is your arms and ears!

Artrix Cinema will also be screening Inside Out during the holidays. The popular Pixar animated movie tells the story of how 11 year old Riley’s emotions go into overdrive when her parents move house.

The People’s Theatre Company presents How the Koala Learnt to Hug at Artrix Theatre on Sunday 1st November at 2.00 pm. Tickets cost £9.50 (£8.50 under 16s) and £34 for a family of four. Inside Out is screening at Artrix Cinema on Monday 26th and Tuesday 27th October at 2.00 pm. Tickets cost £6.30 (£5.30) or £3.30 for accompanied children under 16.