Set in an imaginary Japanese village this is one of Gilbert and Sullivan’s most popular operettas. With classic songs and a hilarious plot it really is a joyful show.

Visit www.oldreptheatre.org.uk

Hot on the heels of scoring the number two grossing film in the country with the critically lauded Soulboys of the Western World, Spandau Ballet arrive in Birmingham as part of their first tour since 2009.

Visit www.ticketfactory.com

Dig out your 70s gear and groove the night away as Abba-riginal perform all the dance classics. Great for all ages and no excuses for not getting up on to that dance floor.

Visit www.thelakeatbarston.co.uk

Prehistoric creatures as you’ve never seen them before! From cute baby dinos to teeth-gnashing giants, observe and interact with extraordinary life-like dinosaurs in this imaginative and hilarious live show.

Visit www.birminghamhippodrome.com

More than 22,000 top dogs from across the world descend on the NEC as the British institution returns for four days of canine heaven. Quite simply a must-see for all dog lovers.

Visit www.crufts.org.uk

An acoustic singer-songwriter with a revolutionary virtuoso guitar style. Jon uses one acoustic guitar to create drum sounds, basslines and twisting melodies all at the same time. Well worth a visit.

Visit www.glee.co.uk/birmingham

What’s at the heart of a woman? Eccentric toymaker Dr Coppélius wants to know, and he’s planning to bring his mechanical doll Coppélia, to life – he just needs the right spell. An enchanting production of a joyous and witty ballet.

Visit www.brb.org.uk

Winner of more than 30 theatre awards, Alan Bennett’s masterpiece was voted the nation’s favourite play in a recent national survey. Set in the 1980s, the comic drama about adolescent schoolboys hits all the right spots.

Visit www.atgtickets.com/birmingham

So you’re engaged! Now for the fun bit…planning your special day.

Find inspiration at Bank House Hotel’s wedding fayre. As a venue, Bank House is pretty idyllic nestled in the rural village of Bransford just 3 miles from Worcester. The backdrop of the Malvern Hills makes for some spectacular photos as does the lawn area with a cider stone press, rose pagoda and sunken beech garden.

Whether you’re planning a grand 500+ affair or an intimate day, Bank House is worth a look.

Picture credit: Sassi Holford

Fabulous free fun this half term as Novotel invites parents and their little super heroes to enjoy a day of fighting to save the planet, undertaking missions and creating some tasty treats. Limited places.

Visit www.novotelheroes.co.uk for participating hotels.