EDUCATING Rita, which runs from tonight (April 5) to April 14, at Lancaster’s The Dukes, is a witty exploration of class, privilege and the power of literature, written by former hairdresser Willy Russell about a hairdresser who has a thirst for knowledge her husband just can’t understand. Eager to escape the trivial conversations at work, she enrols on an Open University course. And, that’s when she meets Frank …

Box office 01524-598500.

Tickets £14.50 - £24

Hambledon Productions present Steptoe and Son. Father and son - one proclaims he's 'a poor old man', while the other protests that actually he's 'a dirty ol' man.' These two warring rag-and-bone-men, live in their Shepherd's Bush scrapyard home, and became household favourites during the 60s and 70s, marking 55 years since the show's first ever broadcast. This hilarious adaptation of the original episodes breathe life back into Albert & Harold’s household, and is on stage at The Grand, Lancaster, on Sunday (April 8, 7.30pm).

Box office 01524-64695.

Tickets £14-£12.

MILKSHAKE Live! the Magic Story Book stars favourite characters Bob the Builder, Little Princess, Noddy, Fireman Sam, Shimmer & Shine and many others, as well as Monkey and two Milkshake presenters. This all singing, all dancing, musical masterpiece, will take audiences on a journey through the world's favourite fairy tales, set among Milkshake's magical bookcase. Kids love the show so don't hesitate to book for performance on Wednesday (April 11, noon & 3.30pm), at The Forum, Barrow.

Box office 01229-820000.

Tickets £14.50; concessions £13.
 

FOR little ones who are budding gardeners, there’s a Food Growing Fun session on Wednesday (April 11) at 2pm, at Ulverston’s Ford Park. With help from the friendly head gardener Sarah, children can discover how to start a vegetable garden – a perfect school holiday project! Places are limited so booking is essential – 01229-581666.

For more info go to www.ford-park-org.uk.

Price £5 per accompanied child.

MULTI-million selling soul band The Real Thing continue to give their much loved disco inspired hits a new lease of life even though the loss of Eddie Amoo, brother to Chris and friend to Dave Smith died recently. The band will continue the tour and performs on Saturday (April 7, 7.30pm) at the Sands Centre, Carlisle. Chris believes that with such outpouring of support from the fans that Eddie would wish the band to carry on as a two-piece, with their live group, and celebrate the 40th anniversary of their debut hit single You To Me Are Everything.

Box office 01229-820000.

Tickets £22.50 & £20.

ENJOY a scrumptious Party Lunch with your favourite character Peter Rabbit, takes place on Saturday (April 7, 3.30pm) at The Laundrama, Old Laundry Studio, Bowness. There’s tasty sandwiches, sausages, crisps and cakes galore, and guest of honour (usually Beatrix Potter) will read you a story. There’s also a gift and balloon for every child. Afterwards, you can visit The World of Beatrix Potter™ Attraction and meet Jemima Puddleduck, Mrs Tiggywinkle, Mr Tod, Jeremy Fisher as well as all their other chums. There are a number of party lunch dates throughout the year including April 14, May 5, October 20 & 27. Booking is essential.

www.hop-skip-jump.com.

Admission: Adults £15.50; children (1-15 years) £13.50