April is packed with unmissable events in Liverpool and across the City Region. From film festivals and swing dance courses to a stunning production of Double Indemnity and a spooky Haunted Book Club, there’s plenty to discover.
With longer days and spring in full swing, it’s the perfect time to explore exciting new events happening throughout the region this month. Here’s our pick of the best events in Liverpool and the city region this April.
1. Horizon Film Festival: No Budget screenings, Unity Theatre (11 April)
Horizon Film Festival: No Budget Screenings showcases the work of Liverpool’s best and brightest upcoming filmmakers. They seek to give them the exposure, connections, and support they need to thrive in the industry.
Attending the festival is your opportunity to watch ground-breaking short films, talk to their creators, and discover the bold visionaries who will shape the future of the industry. Join them in celebrating the art of film in the heart of Liverpool.
2. Double Indemnity, Everyman Playhouse (14 – 18 April)
Hollywood icon Mischa Barton (The O.C.) makes her Liverpool stage debut in Double Indemnity, the gripping adaptation of one of the greatest crime novels of the 20th Century – the story that inspired Billy Wilder’s film noir classic.
James M. Cain’s thrillingly amoral masterpiece of murder, deceit, and mystery is adapted for the stage by Tom Holloway and directed by Oscar Toeman.
3. The Telescopes, Future Yard (15 April)
Future Yard welcome the legendary The Telescopes to their live room. The Telescopes are an all embracing concern that began in 1987, the only constant being sole composer/instigator, Northumbrian born Stephen Lawrie. The band’s line-up is in constant flux and there can be anywhere between one to 20 members on a recording.
The Telescopes music has constantly pushed at it’s own boundaries, overlapping many genres and followed its own course. The band is sure to play a selection of songs from their classic releases over the last forty years.
4. Talking Culture: Public Discussion Group, Bluecoat (16 April)
Talking Culture: Public Discussion Group is a series of friendly discussions where curious people can come together to think, talk, and explore today’s major issues. The first session focuses on public and private space in Liverpool city centre. Many buildings and spaces are privately owned, which raises fundamental questions about what – and whom – the city is for.
Dr Paul Jones from the University of Liverpool’s Department of Sociology, Social Policy and Criminology will frame the discussion around who can do what, when, and with whom.
5. 6 Week Beginners Swing Dance Course, Live Wire Dance Studio / Mersey Swing (16 April – 21 May)
It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing! Join Mersey Swing for a 6 Week Beginners Swing Dance Course. This course will give you the history and foundations of swing dancing and prepare you for their mixed level Wednesday night classes.
Their goal in Mersey Swing is to get people making friends and dancing. Head along solo or with a mate, and leave with your toes tappin’ and a smile on your face! Straight after the last class of the course, they’ll also be having a social dance at Live Wire to celebrate you completing 6 weeks of dancing.
6. Conteh – Liverpool Royal Court (17 April – 9 May)
In the 1970s and 80s, John Conteh was one of the best-known people in the city. He lived the highest of high lives and wrung every ounce of pleasure from his sporting success. A friend to many, perhaps too many, and some were quick to take advantage.
Aron Julius (Boys From The Blackstuff) has written and stars in Conteh, an incredible blow by blow drama about the life of one of Liverpool’s sporting greats. A mix of sporting and personal highs and lows, you will understand him like never before.
7. Jim Henson’s Labyrinth in Concert – Liverpool Philharmonic (17 April)
Jim Henson’s original masterpiece and musical fantasy film Labyrinth is coming to Liverpool Philharmonic this spring in celebration of its 40th anniversary. Starring the iconic David Bowie, fans will be transported to Goblin City in an exciting fusion of film and live music on stage with Jim Henson’s Labyrinth: In Concert.
The film features a soundtrack of unique and memorable melodies, with Bowie’s original songs like Magic Dance, Underground and As the World Falls Down, along with Trevor Jones’ orchestral score.
8. Haunted Book Club, Norton Priory (18 April)
A Haunted Book Club for enjoyers of eerie tales, curious to know more about the stories that make their skin crawl. Join ‘Norton’s Narrator’, Gav Cross and author John Reppion as they delve into the stories behind some of your favourite spine-tingling tales. Whether you’re a seasoned ghost story expert or a newcomer to the realm of creepy fiction, Haunted Book Club welcomes all new members.
At this session of the Book Club, they will be reading ‘The Curfew’ by Lucy M. Boston. The haunted story of open graves and lost bell towers, is widely considered to be inspired by Norton Priory.
9. The Britpop Show with Marc Burrows, The Atkinson (22 April)
Join award-winning writer and comedian Marc Burrows for a multi-media stand up celebration of one of British music’s most iconic and enduring movements, The Britpop Show, marking 30 years since the iconic Blur vs. Oasis chart war.
Music journalist Marc dives into the stories, rivalries and larger-than-life personalities of Britpop, as well as some of the finest music the UK has ever produced. Part nostalgic love letter, part send-up, part rock ‘n’ roll party, The Britpop Show is a perfect night-out.
10. Leap Dance Festival (24 April – 9 May)
Leap Dance Festival returns with an impressive programme celebrating the region’s vibrant dance scene, featuring performances from local artists, community groups and emerging talent. Highlights include Dancing at the Palm House, youth showcases, new commissions and the lively Dancing in the Streets takeover of the city centre.
Find even more events across the Liverpool city region via our What’s On listings.