From crime writing to Shakespearean sonnets, from storytelling for children to creative workshops for budding authors, LitOct is all about celebrating imagination and bringing people together. This year’s line-up includes writers such as Vivien Brown, Sam Davey and Gatlin Perrin, alongside drama, poetry, and even a little mystery.

But it’s not just about books — LitOct also puts community at its heart. Visitors can look forward to the annual Apple Pie Supper, a special creative writing competition prizegiving, an art exhibition by local artist Rosemary Whittle, and a Halloween party to round off the month.

Festival organisers are keen to make the events accessible. A £35 festival pass gives access to nearly everything (excluding the literary lunch and Palooza) and even comes with a goody bag, while individual tickets are kept affordable, starting from just a few pounds.

Southlands Arts Centre has always been a hub for creativity in Hillingdon, and LitOct is a great example of how local venues can offer something special for residents of all ages. Whether you’re a lifelong reader, someone curious about writing, or just looking for a welcoming community event, this festival has something to enjoy.

LitOct runs from 4th–26th October at Southlands Arts Centre, 75 The Green, West Drayton, UB7 7PW. For the full programme and tickets, visit southlandsarts.co.uk/litoct.

The post LitOct Festival Brings Stories and Creativity to Hillingdon This October appeared first on My Uxbridge.

The Beck Theatre, a cultural landmark in Hayes, West London, may soon face closure as Hillingdon Council reviews its assets. The Beck Theatre, Opened in 1977, and since then, this cherished venue has been the borough’s only major theatre, hosting numerous prestigious acts over the decades. However, with tightening budgets and the arts often being the first to experience cuts, the theatre’s future now hangs in the balance.

Trafalgar Theatres, the company currently managing The Beck, has been in discussions with the council since 2023 to negotiate a new lease agreement, one that could offer stability and safeguard the theatre’s future. Unfortunately, the deadline for these talks has now passed, and Trafalgar is making arrangements to return the theatre to the council when their lease ends in January 2025.

A representative from Trafalgar Entertainment said: “Trafalgar Theatres has been diligent in exploring all options that would allow us to continue operating The Beck and we have been steadfast in our solutions-oriented and collaborative approach to protecting this flagship cultural venue.”

While Hillingdon boasts two other theatres—the Winston Churchill Theatre in Ruislip and the Compass Theatre in Ickenham—these venues, located in the north of the borough, are council-run. Performers are required to rent space and provide staff to manage the facilities during performances. In contrast, the Beck Theatre is the only professionally run venue between Hammersmith and High Wycombe, making its potential closure a significant cultural loss for the area.

Local residents, arts organisations, and performers have voiced concerns about the impact of losing the Beck Theatre. Many fear its closure would create a void in the local cultural landscape, further isolating this part of West London from the city’s vibrant arts scene.

As community members rally to save the theatre, petitions and social media campaigns are already in motion. A Facebook group titled “Save the Beck Theatre” has quickly gained hundreds of supporters. (Facebook Group: Save the Beck Theatre)

The closure of the Beck Theatre would be a devastating blow to West London’s cultural scene. As Hillingdon Council continues to deliberate on the future of its assets, many are hopeful that the theatre’s rich legacy and vital role in the community will secure its survival for future generations.

Below is a statement from Cllr Ian Edwards, Leader of Hillingdon Council

For some months Hillingdon Council has been in confidential discussions with Trafalgar UK Theatres Limited about the renewal of its contract which was due in June this year.  

“Trafalgar UK Theatres Limited is owned by Trafalgar Entertainment Group which is a multi-million-pound profit making organisation, majority owned by Barings LLC a US based global asset management firm. The latest published accounts of Trafalgar UK Theatres limited shows it has retained earnings of £18.856 million and made a profit of £1.869 million in the period ending April 2023. 

“Trafalgar currently pays no rent for the use of the theatre building and has very limited repair liability, the cost of which has been borne by Hillingdon residents. In addition, the council has been paying a subsidy towards the theatre’s operations.  

“Quite naturally, as part of new terms, the council has been seeking new operating arrangements as we should not be subsidising a privately owned commercial entity with council taxpayers’ money.  

“Trafalgar’s accounts show healthy opportunities for further income generation, and we are seeking new proposals that would reduce their reliance on grant funding from the council.  

“At 12.58pm today we received their notification letter which expressed their desire to pull out of the Beck Theatre management with effect from 13 January 2025. The same letter asked that both parties agree not to publicise Trafalgar’s decision regarding ceasing activity at the Beck Theatre until after 25 September and we are bitterly disappointed with their decision to make this public in this way. 

Source: https://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/article/13464/Hillingdon-Council-statement-on-the-future-of-the-Beck-Theatre

Here is the Letter released by The Beck and Trafalgar Theatres:

Transcript:

BECK THEATRE

– HAYES –

18th September 2024

Dear friends,

It is with enormous disappointment that I’m writing to advise you that Trafalgar Theatres’ future at The Beck Theatre has been made untenable and we are now forced to make preparations to exit The Beck Theatre at the end of this calendar year. Whilst we do not know for sure, our concern is that the theatre may be at risk of permanent closure.

As you may know, The Beck Theatre is owned by London Borough of Hillingdon and operated by Trafalgar Theatres. Our agreement to operate The Beck is due to expire after our Pantomime later this year and we have been in constant dialogue with LBH since late 2023 to explore a new agreement that would give certainty and would protect The Beck for the future.

Trafalgar Theatres has been diligent in exploring all options that would allow us to continue operating The Beck and we have been steadfast in our solutions-oriented and collaborative approach to protecting this flagship cultural venue.

We have been clear with LBH that we urgently needed clarity from them on the future operation if we were to secure a high-quality programme from 2025 onwards – and provided them with a deadline for decisions – after which it would be impossible to do so.

We are deeply disappointed that this deadline has now passed without agreement. We must now start making exit plans to be activated once our agreement ends in January 2025. LBH have so far been unable to provide us with any clarity around any proposed alternative operation of The Beck, and our concern, therefore, is that The Beck may close its doors.

For nearly 50 years The Beck has been the cornerstone of Arts and Culture for Hillingdon, West London and beyond. Not just a professional Theatre with a world-class programme, but also a hub of creativity, creative learning and community outreach. There is no other Theatre like The Beck in the UK and no other venue of a similar scale with a 10-mile radius. The closure of The Beck would therefore be a devastating blow not just to audiences but also to the myriad local organisations, charities and communities that we support. I am deeply sorry that we find ourselves in this position.

Unfortunately, we are not able to advise on any future plans for The Beck. Should you have questions, however, you may wish to write to the Corporate Director of Place, Karrie Whelan on kwhelan@hillingdon.gov.uk who will be in a position to respond.

Thank you for your continued support of The Beck Theatre.

Yours,

Steve Sargeant

Theatre Director

Wikipedia: The Beck Theatre

The post Beloved Beck Theatre Faces Uncertain Future appeared first on My Uxbridge.

In an exhilarating development for book enthusiasts and vinyl lovers alike, My Uxbridge is thrilled to extend a marvellous opportunity to attend an exclusive author talk and book signing event. We are giving away tickets to immerse yourselves in the captivating universe of *The Vinyl Detective: Noise Floor*, the latest masterpiece from the renowned author Andrew Cartmel.

Set against the inspiring backdrop of Southlands Arts Centre, this event promises to be an unforgettable evening. Scheduled for Tuesday, 19th March at 6 pm, Andrew Cartmel will take centre stage to delve deep into the intriguing world of *The Vinyl Detective*. Attendees will be treated to an insightful discussion on the nuances of his new book, offering a rare glimpse into the mind of a maestro who seamlessly blends the allure of mystery with the timeless charm of vinyl records.

This is an unmissable occasion for fans and newcomers alike to engage with a celebrated figure in contemporary literature, get their copies signed, and perhaps uncover the secrets behind crafting compelling narratives. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Cartmel’s work or simply have a penchant for captivating stories, this evening promises to offer something for everyone.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exclusive gathering. Join us at Southlands Arts Centre for an evening that celebrates the magic of storytelling set against the enchanting world of vinyl records. It’s an opportunity to connect, discover, and be enthralled by the artistry of Andrew Cartmel.

Enter Now

In the comments section below, share your thoughts on which book from the Vinyl Detective series is your favourite. We will contact you at the email address provided. If you don’t want your comment to be public, mention that at the bottom of the comment. We will announce the winners on the 19th of March.

The post Win Tickets to Andrew Cartmel Author Talk and Book Signing at Southlands Arts Centre appeared first on My Uxbridge.

Southlands Arts Centre & Friends of Southlands is thrilled to announce the eagerly anticipated 2023 Literary & Storytelling Festival, a captivating two-day event that promises to be a haven for book lovers, storytellers, and creative minds alike. The festival is set to take place on Friday, 8th September & Saturday, 9th September 2023.

The pop-up cafe will also be on site both days for an amazing selection of food and refreshments.

The 2023 Literary & Storytelling Festival will showcase a diverse array of authors, illustrators, and literary enthusiasts, converging to celebrate the power of words and narratives. Attendees can immerse themselves in a series of engaging talks, workshops, and interactive sessions designed to inspire, entertain, and enlighten.

From insightful conversations with authors that delve into their creative processes to hands-on workshops that uncover the art of storytelling, this festival is a unique opportunity for individuals to connect with other like-minded and explore new horizons in the world of imagination.

“Our goal is to foster a community of literary enthusiasts and provide a platform for talented individuals to share their stories, experiences, and insights,” said a spokesperson for Friend of Southlands. “The 2023 Literary & Storytelling Festival aims to ignite conversations, spark inspiration, and nurture a love for literature and storytelling in all its forms.”

The 2023 Literary & Storytelling Festival is open to all ages and welcomes readers, writers, artists, educators, and anyone with a passion for storytelling. It is an unmissable opportunity to celebrate the magic of words and the boundless creativity that lies within each narrative.

For more information about the festival schedule, featured speakers, and registration details, please visit the official event website at www.southlandsarts.co.uk/literary-storytelling-festival-this-september/.

The post Missing Hillingdon Culture Bite 2023? Southlands Literary Festival Has the Answer appeared first on My Uxbridge.

Why simply be a spectator when you can be a part of the experience? We invite you to immerse yourself in the art, feel the passion behind each work, and actively support our local artistic community. As a special treat, you also get the privilege of casting your vote for your top three favourite artworks. Based on popular opinion, Southlands Arts plans to curate a special 2024 calendar, celebrating the most beloved pieces from the exhibition.

Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to be a part of something beautiful. The exhibition is open until Saturday, 26th August, at the iconic Southlands Arts Centre. We look forward to seeing you there, and who knows? Perhaps you’ll be inspired to become our next featured artist!

The post The Summer Art Exhibition at Southlands Arts: Final Week Alert! appeared first on My Uxbridge.

The bestselling author of the Thirteen Treasures series, Michelle Harrison, will be talking about her wonderful new novel, A Pinch of Magic at Waterstones in Uxbridge on Saturday 23rd February at 2 pm.

So if you enjoyed the Thirteen Treasures series, or are you interested in Michelle’s latest novel, then why not pop down?

Book Blurb

Three sisters trapped by an ancient curse.

Three magical objects with the power to change their fate.

Will they be enough to break the curse?

Or will they lead the sisters even deeper into danger? …

‘A SPELLBINDING STORY, STEEPED IN MAGIC. I ADORED IT’ – Abi Elphinstone, author of Sky Song 

Praise for A PINCH OF MAGIC:

‘BRILLIANT’ Emma Carroll, author of Letters From The Lighthouse

‘This delightful tale fizzes with magic and races along at a fantastic pace. This book completely charmed my socks off!’ Alex Bell, author of The Polar Bear Explorers’ Club

‘Simply phenomenal! A breathtaking quest for survival and freedom, bursting with brave heroines, enchanted objects and deadly dangers. And at its heart is a powerful and beautiful message of sisterly love and loyalty overcoming jealousy and betrayal’ Sophie Anderson, author of The House With Chicken Legs

‘What a glorious book this is! I was utterly captivated by the Widdershins sisters’ Lisa Thompson, author of The Goldfish Boy

‘Take three sisters, add the cruelest of curses and a pinch of magic, and you’ll have a tantalising tale you cannot put down’ Tamsyn Murray, author of Completely Cassidy

Praise for Michelle Harrison’s THIRTEEN series:

‘A charming and inventive tale’ The Times
‘You are in for an adventure’ Sunday Express

The post Michelle Harrison @ Waterstones Uxbridge appeared first on My Uxbridge.

Ruislip Lido railway is a great day out for the kids during summer, but there is something even more magical about the Christmas event.

You take the train from the stop by the carpark and travel to Santas shack at the end of the line. There you will get to see Santa, receive your gift and have a photo with him.

The route along the track is decorated with Christmas illuminations to make it feel all the more magical. If you have a desire to go, then the ticket booking is already open (yes I know it’s only September).

https://ruisliplido.com/santas-christmas-polar-express-booking-now

The post Santa Returns to Ruislip Lido for 2018 appeared first on My Uxbridge.

Well, lucky for you, Waterstones in Uxbridge have you covered for some of the time. Here we go over the schedule for the next few weeks and give you a rundown of what to expect from Waterstones Uxbridge and their list of lovely things to do this summer.

*All Events are free but must be booked in advance. Please call Waterstones Uxbridge on 01895 272 800, or just come in to store.*

• Tuesday 24th July 2.30pm-5pm Two workshops with Explore Learning

2.30pm Telling the Time (ages 5-7) & 4pm Angular Architecture (ages 7-9)

• Wednesday 25th July 11-12 noon Dr Seuss Bingo  and Storytime (ages 4 – 8)

• Thursday 26th July 11-12 noon Storytime and activity sheets (ages 3-7)

• Wednesday 1st August 11-12 & 1- 2 Creative Drawing Workshops (ages 7-12)

with fashion designer and author, Natasha Itzcovitz

• Thursday 2nd August 11-12 noon – Storytime/Crafts (ages 4-7)

Storytime and crafts with ‘What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday’.

• Friday 3rd August 11-12 noon – Holiday Book Club ‘The Storm Keepers Island’

Join us for a magical session full of fun activities and a discussion of the book itself. Perfect for ages 8 – 12 years.

• Wednesday 8th August 11-1 Where’s Wally Treasure Hunt!

No need to book, just a bit of fun searching the store for signs of Wally!

• Thursday 9th August 11-12 noon, Storytime and activity sheets (ages 3-7)

• Tuesday 14th August 2.30 – 5 pm Two Workshops with Explore Learning

2.30 pm Knights Journey-Grammar (ages 5-7)

4 pm Put a spring in your step-Comprehension (ages 7-9)

• Thursday 16th August 11-12 noon Storytime/Crafts (ages4-7)

Storytime and Crafts with the wonderful ‘Katie in London’.

•Friday 17th August 11-12 noon – Creative Writing Workshops with author Vashti Hardy (ages 7-12)

Vashti will be running a workshop called ‘Maps and Mischief’ based on her book ‘Brightstorm’

• Thursday 23rd Augst 11-12 noon – Storytime and activity sheets (ages 3-7)

•Friday 24th August 11-12 noon Holiday Book Club presents ‘Brightstorm’

Join us for a magical session full of fun activities and a discussion of the book itself. Perfect for ages 8-12 years.

•Thursday 30th August 11-12 noon – ‘The Tiger Who Came to Tea’ Tea Party (4-7 years)

*All Events are free but must be booked in advance. Please call Waterstones Uxbridge on 01895 272 800, or just come in to store.*

The post Things to Do: Summer at Waterstones 2018 appeared first on My Uxbridge.

Her first book, He’s Gone, featured transgender detective Robyn Bailley and was very well received.

She’s Fallen continues following the work of DI Bailley as she must navigate the web of lies surrounding a new case whilst still under continued criticism of her new identity.

New Release: She’s Fallen

Synopsis:

A SUSPICIOUS FALL

Nineteen-year-old Shazia Johar has everything to live for. But when she is found critically injured after plunging from a hotel balcony, DI Robyn Bailley must determine why she fell. Was Shazia pushed or did she jump?

A BROKEN WOMAN

When Robyn’s team investigate the events that led to Shazia’s fall, they discover evidence of violence in the hotel room. What happened and who is responsible?

A DEATH

As Shazia’s life hangs in the balance, Robyn’s team discover the body of another hotel guest. With uncertainty and falsehood disturbing both investigations, Robyn must navigate the web of lies under continued criticism of her new identity from her ex-wife and her daughter.

‘Pacy, assured writing with three dimensional characters – DI Robyn Bailley is a breath of fresh air!’ LV Hay, author of THE OTHER TWIN

Praise for the Robyn Bailley series

Lifting the police procedural into new realms Alex Clare has created a contemporary and relevant heroine in DI Robyn Bailley Alice Clark-Platts, author of BITTER FRUITS

Classic crime fiction with a compelling, complex and brilliantly conceived central character. Robyn Bailley is a wonderful creation and Alex Clare is an exciting new talent Shelia Bugler, author of the Ellen Kelly crime series

Check the price on Amazon.co.uk

First Release: He’s Gone

Synopsis:

How do you find a missing child when his mother doesn’t believe you have the right to even exist? When Detective Inspector Roger Bailley returns to work as Robyn, all she wants is to get on with the job she loves while finally being herself. When three-year-old Ben Chivers is snatched from a shopping centre on her first day back at work, Robyn has to find Ben and herself as she deals with the reactions of her police colleagues, the media and her own daughter.

Check the price on Amazon.co.uk

Alex Clare’s Website: alexclareauthor.wordpress.com

The post Crime Author Alex Clare Book Signing Waterstones appeared first on My Uxbridge.

As indicated on their flyer, all events are FREE but must be booked (unless otherwise indicated)

To book, you can call Waterstones Uxbridge on 01895 272 800, or simply talk to a bookseller in store.

Easter Egg Hunt

When: Friday 30th March 2018

Time: 11am – 1pm

What: This one doesn’t need booking, so you can just turn up if you fancy a hunt for some eggs. 

Easter Storytime and Activities

When: Tuesday 3rd April 2018

Time: 11 am – 12 noon

Where: Waterstones Uxbridge

What: Join Waterstones for some Easter themed stories and activities.

Ages: 0-7 years

Craft at Easter – ‘Odd Dog’ Crafts

When: Wednesday 4th April 2018

Time: 12 noon – 1pm

Where: Waterstones Uxbridge

What: Craft Activity inspired by Rob Biddulph’s ‘Odd Dog Out’.

Ages: 5 – 8 years

Crafts at Easter – Bears and Bunnies Crafts

When: Thursday 5th April 2018

Time: 12 noon – 1pm

Where: Waterstones Uxbridge

What: Join Waterstone for a craft session creating bears and bunnies!

Ages: 5 – 8 years

Monster Storytime and Treasure Hunt

When: Monday 9th April 2018

Time: 11 – 12 noon

What: Activities based on the Tom Fletcher book ‘There’s a Monster in my Book’

Where: Waterstones Uxbridge

Ages: 2 – 6 years

Explore Learning Workshops

When: Tuesday 10th April 2018

What: Two FREE workshops with the fantastic Explore Learning

The two workshops are as follows:

Fun with Phonics for ages 4 – 6 years

Time: 14:30 – 15:30

Telling the Time for ages 5 – 7 years

Time: 16:00 – 17:00

‘Five Minutes Peace’  Storytime and Activities

When: Friday 13th April

Time: 11am – 12 noon

What: Bring along your favourite toy to draw. Prizes will be awarded for the best pictures!

Again, if you are looking for something to do over the Easter period, then please do make the most of the Easter events at Waterstones! As said, these are FREE events, which is great, but they do require booking! It’s simple to ring up or just drop in and let on the staff members known.

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