If you’re looking for something to do in the Ipswich area this weekend, there’s musical nostalgia galore, plus open gardens and a family rave.
Dancing Queen
Ipswich Regent, June 8
The 70s are back in this show recalling the days when Abba ruled the dance floor, with authentic costumes and plenty of glitz.
As well as Abba classics like Dancing Queen and Waterloo, the show also features other songs from the era like Summer Nights, Car Wash and Love is in the Air.
For more details, visit the website.
Lipstick on Your Collar
Spa Pavilion, Felixstowe, June 9
Music from the 1950s and 60s features in this spectacular music show, previously performed in the West End.
From the birth of rock‘n’roll through to beat groups the show will include hits from the likes of Connie Francis, Buddy Holly, Brenda Lee, Jerry Lee Lewis, The Beatles, The Ronettes, Cliff Richard, Cilla Black, Sandi Shaw and many more musical legends.
To find out more and book tickets, visit the website.
Jazz on a Summer’s Evening
The Avenue Theatre, Gippeswyk Hall, June 9
Fancy joining in the ultimate jazz and pizza evening? If so, this event being organised by Red Rose Chain Theatre Company is for you.
The 18-piece jazz orchestra Horn Factory is returning to the Avenue Theatre, for a night of cool jazz and artisan pizza under the stars. Bring your own rug and cushions, relax and enjoy. If it rains, the event will be undercover.
All money raised will go towards Red Rose Chain’s community work. For more information, see the website.
Big Fish Little Fish Family Rave
Trinity Park, June 10
Children and parents can dance away the afternoon at this fun event, with DJTrax by Countmonkula playing old-school dance music.
The event will include confetti cannons, bubbles, a giant parachute dance, themed crafts, a face-painting stall and giant mural. there will also be a fully licenced bar for adults.
The event, running from 2 to 4.30pm, has a Summer of Love theme with optional fancy dress. It is aimed at under-eights, but older siblings are welcome too. Adults must be accompanied by a child. For more details, see the website.
The Beatles vs The Stones - Let’s Spend the Night Together
Ipswich Regent, June 10
The Beatles and the Rolling Stones - which band was best? It’s an argument that spans the generations.
You can make your mind up on Sunday night, as Beatles and Stones tribute bands battle it out on stage in this stage spectacular, featuring a long list of great 1960s hits. It’s Hey Jude versus Brown Sugar and Jumpin’ Jack Flash versus Can’t Buy Me Love.
The bands will be playing vintage instruments to add to the feeling of authenticity. For more details, see the website.
Felixstowe Open Gardens
41 Westmorland Road, June 10
As part of the Great Garden Trail, five gardens in the town are open from 11am to 5pm on Sunday, in aid of St Elizabeth Hospice.
Attractive suburban gardens are included, some with ponds and other surprising features. Refreshments will be available to buy, including cakes, savouries and teas. The event is being organised jointly with Visit Felixstowe.
Plants will also be available to buy from Katie’s Garden nursery. For more details, visit the event’s Facebook page.
Contemporary Chinese Works on Paper Exhibition
Where: Ipswich Art Gallery, June 9 and 10
There’s still time to catch the largest selection of contemporary Chinese works on paper outside China, with 72 different artists and more than 100 works of art featured.
Many artists from China still employ traditional techniques of calligraphy, while also embracing more modern methods, so the exhibition is extremely varied.
For more details, visit the website.
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