Events 2026 1 - What's On In Sutton Coldfield

Opera Boys Starring Paul Potts

The powerhouse classical-crossover sensation The Opera Boys are thrilled to announce their final tour, featuring the world-renowned tenor and very first winner of Britain’s Got Talent, Paul Potts.

Following years of sold-out performances across the globe, The Opera Boys join forces with the man who captured the world’s heart with his legendary audition of “Nessun Dorma”. This collaboration promises an evening of soaring notes, impeccable harmonies, and the perfect blend of opera, musical theatre, and modern pop classics.

Paul Potts became a household name in 2007, winning the inaugural season of Britain’s Got Talent. Since then, he has released multi-platinum albums, performed over 1,500 shows in 45 countries, and inspired the Hollywood biopic One Chance.

The Opera Boys are a leading classical-crossover group featuring leading men from London’s West End and Broadway. They have performed for Royalty, appeared on national television, and performed to sold out theatres and concert halls worldwide, delivering immaculate four-part harmonies and solo performances, delivered in their inimitable style.

You do not want to miss this final tour, as it really is time to say goodbye!

Jimmy Nail – Stories and Songs

Acclaimed actor, singer, musician and writer — and proud Geordie icon — Jimmy Nail heads out on the road in 2026 with Stories and Songs, a series of intimate retrospective shows reflecting on an extraordinary seven-decade career.

From the landmark television series Auf Wiedersehen, Pet to Spender and then crocodile Shoes — which spawned multi-platinum albums and chart-topping singles — Jimmy Nail has left an indelible mark on British popular culture. His career spans hit records, television series, major film roles including Evita and Still Crazy, and leading performances on both Broadway and London’s West End.

Following a recent run of sell-out shows in Newcastle, celebrating the songs of Crocodile Shoes, Jimmy now brings audiences something more personal.

Stories and Songs is a warm, witty and revealing evening that blends music, memories and rarely seen images. Audiences can expect candid anecdotes, moments of reflection, and a hand-picked selection of songs drawn from across his remarkable career.

And with a catalogue this rich, no two nights will be quite the same. From the 1992 UK number one “Ain’t No Doubt”, to “Love Don’t Live Here Anymore”, “Crocodile Shoes”, “Cowboy Dreams”, “Big River”, and music from film and stage, the choices are many —and the stories behind them just as compelling.

Jimmy will be joined on stage by long-time collaborator Tony Davis on keyboards and accordion, adding texture and atmosphere to these stripped-back, intimate performances.

An evening of Stories and Songs is not just a concert, it’s a journey—through music, memory, and a life lived on stage and screen.

Sutton Coldfield Jazz Nights – Lydia Rae Duo

The Lydia Rae Duo – Songs from the Shows

Lydia Rae – Vocalist

Ben Lawrence – Piano

Combining a shared love of golden age musicals and tunes from the Great American Songbook, Lydia and Ben bring a varied set of their favourite show tunes and ballads from the 1930s to present day. Meeting through the UK jazz scene and developing their sound together through various ensembles, their musical styles complement each other to such an extent that they branched off to form a duo.

“A promising singer-pianist partnership in the making” ~ Russell Corbett

Eurovision – Pride of Europe

A hilarious and fun-filled homage to the world’s most beloved song competition.

After Moldova and Bosnia & Herzegovina, it’s now Liechtenstein’s turn to host Europe’s favourite song contest and crown this year’s Eurobeat champion. Take a trip to this tiny Alpine nation for some hilarious new songs, and some old favourites too. This loving send-up is bound to delight any fan of Europe’s largest television event.

Hosted by the glamorous drag queen Marlene Cabana, ten countries battle it out through power ballads, outrageous dance routines, key-changes, a sprinkle of politics, and the drama of crowning a winner… and as if that wasn’t enough, you decide who wins via live vote.

G4 Christmas

Gather to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year as G4 bring glad tidings of great joy this festive season, with the return of their ‘G4 Christmas’ tour in the most awe-inspiring cathedrals, priories, minsters, halls and abbeys across the UK.

Step into a world of vocal enchantment, on a breathtaking musical journey with beautifully-blended voices.

Ignite your Christmas spirit with a sprinkling of G4’s yuletide magic. Nourish your soul with their extraordinary and unique renditions of traditional carols, sacred contemplations, classical favourites and modern festive hits including Silent Night, O Holy Night, All I Want for Christmas, Walking in the Air, When a Child is Born, The 12 Days of Christmas and many, many more.

With mesmerising harmonies and impeccable showmanship it’s no wonder this hotly-anticipated tour sells out year after year, where the guys leave you with chills of delight and a heart full of Christmas cheer.

After the show you’ll dash, dance and prance your holly jolly way all the way home, having no doubt experienced something more precious than gold, frankincense and myrrh!

Pre-show ‘Meet and Greet’ tickets are available at all venues, taking place at 6pm, unless otherwise stated, and includes a welcome drink, plus the opportunity to meet G4 and have photographs with them and items signed by them.

Echoes of Remembrance

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – Solemn Vespers and Requiem in D Minor

Join Lichfield Cathedral Chorus for a performance of two of Mozart’s best loved pieces – in a special performance for the season of remembrance, in the candlelit surroundings of Lichfield Cathedral.

The Solemn Vespers capture the splendour of worship and the quiet intimacy of prayer and remains one of Mozart’s most enduring sacred masterpieces.

Mozart’s requiem in D Minor is one of the most profound and compelling works in the choral repertoire and it continues to move audiences with its timeless blend of solemnity, hope and transcendent beauty.

Artisan Market

Come and explore a range of stands by local craftspeople and producers.

From food and drink to unique, handmade gifts this is a perfect opportunity to pick up something special.

This is a dog-friendly event!*

Entry by donation.

* We request that owners ensure their dogs are well-behaved, on a short lead, accompanied at all times, and that they do not disturb other visitors.

Bruce Springsteen Candlelight Concert

Get ready for a night that brings the spirit, sound and stories of The Boss to life like never before. Performed by the outstanding live band ‘The Sound of Springsteen’, this show is a full-scale tribute to one of rock’s greatest icons, all set against the warm glow of candlelight.

This isn’t just a gig – it’s an immersive experience. As Bruce Springsteen’s music fills the room, the atmosphere comes alive with thousands flickering candles and every song carries the energy, heart, and grit that made Bruce Springsteen a legend.

Expect to hear all the classics that defined generations. From the drive of Born to Run and the anthems of Born in the U.S.A. and Glory Days, to the soul of The River and Streets of Philadelphia. Sing along to Dancing in the Dark, lose yourself in Thunder Road, and feel the pulse of Hungry Heart. Every note, every lyric, is performed with passion and authenticity.

The setting makes it even more special. Surrounded by candlelight, the band delivers a performance that feels both intimate and powerful. Whether you’ve followed Springsteen from the beginning or you’re discovering his music for the first time, this is a show that will stay with you.

Join us for an evening that celebrates the music, the stories and the fire of Bruce Springsteen.

Anne Hathaway: A Monologue by Lesley Smith

Married to William Shakespeare for more than 30 years, Anne Hathaway remains one of the most fascinating and misunderstood women of the Elizabethan age. This thoughtful and engaging portrayal brings to life the woman behind one of history’s greatest literary figures.

Lesley Smith is a historian known for her dramatic portrayals of historical characters in full costume. She served as Curator of Tutbury Castle in Staffordshire from 2000 to 2024. She is a specialist in Tudor history, and most of her characters relate to that period, but the full range includes characters from the first to the twentieth centuries AD.

Lichfield Book Extravaganza

Book lovers, aspiring writers and collectors are in for a treat as the Lichfield Book Extravaganza returns to the historic Guildhall on Saturday 17 October 2026, bringing together more than 50 independent authors, booksellers and creative traders.

Taking place from 10.30am until 4pm, the event promises a celebration of books, storytelling and creativity, with something to interest readers of all ages.

Organised by Rosie’s Retro Bazaar in association with independent publisher Fantom, the Book Extravaganza offers visitors the chance to discover new authors, browse unusual literary treasures and support independent businesses.

Meet the Authors

One of the highlights of the event will be the opportunity to meet writers working across a wide range of genres, from contemporary fiction and romance to crime thrillers, fantasy and science fiction.

Among those appearing will be crime thriller writer Gemma Walker, romance authors Celia Tandy and Millie Bowker, and fantasy author Nick Snape.

Visitors will have the opportunity to discover their work, explore different styles of writing and perhaps find a new favourite author.

For aspiring writers, the event also offers an opportunity to connect with people involved in independent publishing.

Much More Than Books

The Guildhall will be filled with stalls offering far more than traditional books.

Visitors can expect comics, graphic novels, zines, illustrations, prints, stationery, gifts and literary memorabilia.

Specialist and second-hand booksellers will also offer opportunities to uncover unusual titles and collectable editions.

Whether you’re searching for a particular book, looking for an unusual gift or simply enjoy browsing independent creative stalls, there should be plenty to explore.

Supporting Independent Creativity

The Book Extravaganza celebrates the independent authors, publishers, artists and small businesses that contribute to the region’s creative community.

Events like this give writers and traders the chance to meet their audiences face to face while introducing visitors to work they might not otherwise discover.

The historic surroundings of Lichfield Guildhall provide a fitting setting for a day dedicated to literature and creativity.