Welcome to our latest Culture Trust, Luton what’s on guide
We hope you enjoy exploring this season’s range of arts and cultural programmes available to you across our four venues in Luton. From nationally renowned Comedians and live music gigs to packed school holiday programmes for the family there’s something that is sure to pique an interest. We encourage you to book early as many events sell out and we don’t want you to be disappointed. Don’t forget our museums are free to visit and explore - details of opening hours are on the inside back page. When planning your visit don’t’ forget to enjoy our café and bar offers whilst you’re there.
A reminder that all the income generated from ticketed events and from our cafes and evening bars is re-invested back into our charity, so thank you for your support
We look forward to welcoming you to one of our sites over the coming season. From The Culture Trust, Luton team.
The Garden Café
Tucked away in the gardens of Stockwood Discovery Centre, the Café offers a selection of cakes, coffees and snacks.
The Garden Café has a hot food menu freshly made by our chefs, served from 12 - 4pm.
Opening Hours Wed - Sun 11am - 5pm
SEASON AT A GLANCE
NABIL ABDULRASHID: URBAN BATTUTA FRI 11 APR
WHERE'S MRS LADYBIRD? SUN 27 APR
MUSIC
DAN SEALEY THU 8 MAY
NATHAN CATON: MY BIG FAT BLASIAN WEDDING FRI 23 MAY
THE BELGRAVE HOUSE BAND: BACK TO BLACK SAT 31 MAY
PRIDE IN LUTON FESTIVAL SAT 14 JUN
STOCKWOOD LIVING HISTORY FESTIVAL SAT 30 & SUN 31 AUG
STILL BOOKING
ESHAAN AKBAR: LIVE
FRI 21 MAR / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£18.50 adult/£16.50 Concession, 14+
Eshaan Akbar is back doing jokes on tour! Eshaan’s previous tour, the Pretender, was described by The Times as “pretty sick” (not an actual quote) so this one is likely to be mad good.
NICK MOHAMMED: TOUR WARM UP
THU 27 MAR / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£16, 14+
Taskmaster loser & Ted Lasso star Nick Mohammed (and his critically acclaimed alter-ego Mr. Swallow) works up his brand new show ahead of a national tour. As per - expect magic, music and a whole load of brand new mistakes.
WHIPPED UP!
THU 27, FRI 28 & SAT 29 MAR / 10AM & 11.30AM
Stockwood Discovery Centre
£15 for baby and carer/£7 per extra adults, 2 months - 2 years Whipped Up! follows Dottie, an eager-to-please 50’s-style diner server on their first day on the job – where the baby is the customer, and caregivers are along for the ride. Stimulating for tiny audience members with sensory play served up throughout the show, and hilarious for parents/adults watching their loved ones take on roles in an unfolding comedy.
NOASIS
SAT 29 MAR / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£16 Advance/£18.50 on door, Strictly 18+
Vinyl Revelations and Masterplan in conjunction with Culture Trust Luton proudly presents: NOASIS - The Definitive Oasis tribute band. Widely considered the world’s premier Oasis tribute band, Noasis make their return to Luton after selling out shows all around the UK.
BERK NEST
PHIL MCINTYRE LIVE
VINYL REVELATIONS
TOXIC
THU 3 & FRI 4 APR / 7.30PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£12 Adult/£10 Concession, 18+
Toxic is the story of two queer people who, in their own words, ‘meet, fall in love and f*ck it up.’ Written in Nathaniel’s unmistakeable heartbreaking and hilarious style, the play is a rollercoaster ride through their tumultuous and passionate relationship as they struggle to tame the ghosts of their pasts.
ALTERNATIVE 90S NIGHT
SAT 5 APR / 7PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£10 Advance/£12 on door, 18+
Were you part of the '120 Minutes' generation, spending wasted weekends at the Reading and Pheonix Festivals? If so, this is definitely the night for you. But never fear if you missed out, as you too can experience what the great alternative bands of the 90s had to offer all in one night!!
THE MUSLIMS ARE COMING
SAT 5 APR / 7.30PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£18, 18+
The Muslims Are Coming … so round up your friends and join us for an uplifting night of laughter! Featuring Muhsin Yesilada, Ola Labib, Prince Abdi and Aatif Nawaz, if you’ve never been to one of these nights before then get ready for belly laughs that are big enough to burn off an entire Biryani! It’s a comedy night with a whole heap of halal-hilarity to celebrate Ramadan and Eid.
KATE BUTCH: WUTHERING SH*TES
THU 10 APR / 7.30PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£17 standard/ £27 meet & greet, 14+
Fresh from the runway of RuPaul's Drag Race UK, Kate Butch has written a comedy jukebox musical based on the songs of Kate Bush.
APRIL
1* IRISHMAN
THU 10 APR / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£10, 18+
Reece Kidd is a Northern Irish comedian living in London, with a growing online presence that includes over 30K followers on Instagram and 15K on TikTok. His clips have over 50 million views. In 2024, Reece had five sold-out shows at the Edinburgh Fringe, including "1 Irishman," "0 Plans: A Crowd Work Show," and "1 Irish 1 English: Mornings, Afternoons, and Evenings."
GREEN FAKE: AWESOME AS FAKE!
FRI 11 APR / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£10 Advance/£12 on door, 16+
Green Fake - God's Favourite Tribute Band are proud to bring their new tour "Awesome as FAKE" to The Hat Factory - get ready for a relentlessly energetic show filled to the brim with smash hits from the entire discography of rock legends Green Day!
NABIL ABDULRASHID: URBAN BATTUTA
FRI 11 APR / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£17.50, 16+
Award-winning comedian Nabil Abdulrashid returns for a riotous new stand-up hour. As Seen on Live at the Apollo, Have I Got News For You, 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown and the Last Leg. As heard on Off Menu with James Acaster and Ed Gamble and Hoovering with Jessica Fostekew.
THE ULTIMATE STONE ROSES
SAT 12 APR / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£15, Strictly 18+
THE ULTIMATE STONE ROSES are the only tribute to the roses to hail from Manchester. Each member is a die hard fan of the original band who has dedicated themselves to mastering the music of their heroes. Playing songs from the seminal first album, The Second Coming and early fan favourites like 'Sally Cinnamon' and 'Mersey Paradise' The Ultimate Stone Roses give their audiences the most authentic Stone Roses experience possible.
DARK PARTY
SAT 12 APR / 10PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£5 Earlybird/£8 in advance/£10 on door, 18+
DARK PARTY returns to the Hat Factory for its second instalment. Expect to hear music by and similar to; Daft Punk, YYYs, We Are Scientists, Animal Collective, Hot Chip, Foster The People, Two Door Cinema Club, Bloc Party, Phoenix, Franz Ferdinand, Future islands, Bombay Bicycle Club and more...
JUSTIN MOORHOUSE: THE GREATEST PERFORMANCE OF MY LIFE
FRI 18 APR / 7.30PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£16 Full/£6 unwaged (proof required), 14+
A poignant exploration of comedy intertwined with the essence of life's ups and downs. Justin's unparalleled ability to blend side-splitting humour with touching insights offers a rare glimpse into the human condition through the lens of a comedian.
THE SMITHS LTD
SAT 19 APR / 8.30PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£15 in advance/£18 on door, 18+
“The Smiths Ltd are probably the best tribute act going in the UK today.” - Quays News
If you never saw The Smiths then this is your chance to experience the thrill of those great songs played live. If you were lucky enough to see them first time around then prepare to relive that excitement again.
LADIES OF LAUGHTER
FRI 25 APR / 7.30 PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£18, Strictly 18+
The Ladies Of Laughter are back, flexing their female funny muscles especially for you! This hit tour returns for a night made for everybody (whatever your pronoun) so round up your friends & family and join us for a guaranteed night of hilarity!
E A S T E R PROGRAMME
THE STORY FORGE
MON 7 APR / 11.30AM & 2PM
Stockwood Discovery Centre, £9, 7+
Two very silly history professors forge three new myths from the unhinged minds of their audience - and a boatload of cardboard props! Help shape the stories, and even become the hero yourself, in this EPIC interactive experience for children and childish adults. You’d be mad to myth it!
CREATION: THE BUBBLE SHOW
TUE 8 APR / 11.30AM & 2PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre, £9, 2+
Journey through the awe-inspiring story of the origins of Bubbleland, as it’s brought to life in a dazzling display of soap and water. Immerse yourself as the master of bubbles breathes life into: light, water, plants, animals, stars, and the essence of human nature itself.
CREATIVE CROWNS WORKSHOP
TUE 8 & TUE 15 APR / 11.30AM - 3.30PM, DROP IN SESSION
Wardown House, Museum and Gallery, Free, 3 - 7 years
Inspired by Wardown’s Hat and Headwear collection, join us this holiday period in one of our two Easter Crown making sessions. Choose from a wide range of craft materials to create your own unique crown and parade it round the museum whilst you explore all the hats on display.
We’re delighted to be welcoming The Brick People to Wardown House, Museum and Gallery, who’ll be offering a wide range of LEGO® related activities. Events consist of various LEGO® activity tables, including mosaic building, random brick building just to name a few.
THREE LITTLE VIKINGS
THU 10 APR / 11.30AM & 2PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre, £9, 4+
Once upon a time in a Viking village, everything seems to be going wrong. Chickens are disappearing, trees are falling down, and there's lots and lots of crashing and bashing. The silly Chieftain won't listen to the three littlest Vikings, but can they work together to figure out what's going on and save the day?
VIKING SHIELD MAKING WORKSHOP
THU 10 APR / 10.30AM & 1PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre, £5 or £2.50 if attending Three Little Vikings, 3-7 years
Inspired by Three Little Vikings, you’ll make your very own Viking shield to become a little rebel. With a mix of materials on offer, you’re guaranteed 45 minutes of creative crafting in this workshop.
EASTER CLAY CLUB! WITH LUGUS CERAMICS
FRI 11 APR / 10AM & 11.30AM
Hat Factory Arts Centre, £8, Suitable for all ages, adults must accompany their children
Join Luton based company Lugus Ceramics to design and build your very own Easter themed pottery to take home with you in a fun and messy clay based session.
FAMILY FILM CLUB: PLANES 2: FIRE AND RESCUE U
SAT 12 APR / 10.30AM
Hat Factory Arts Centre, £4 each or 4 for £12
Animated adventure. When plucky plane Dusty Crophopper suffers damage to his engine that could prevent him from ever racing again, he decides to join the daring firefighting squad.
SPRUNG
MON 14 APR / 10.30AM & 3PM - BABY (0-18 MONTHS)
12PM & 1.30PM - TODDLER (18 MONTHS - 3 YEARS)
Stockwood Discovery Centre, £15 adult & child / £6 additional person Nell is busy planting seeds in her garden, but it isn’t just flowers that have sprung up to meet her. A very bouncy bunny joins her and chaos, comedy and cuddles come along too. A show all about, planting, growing & blossoming.
THE MYSTERY OF THE HAT FACTORY ARTS CENTRE
MON 14 APR / 11.30AM & 2PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre, £9, 7+
From the award-winning creators of ‘ I Believe in Unicorns’ comes this new brain-teasing interactive adventure. Combining live board game elements with a thrilling evidence hunt, you’ll become a detective faced with intriguing suspects, curious objects and a detailed theatre map. Can we crack this case together?
FAMILY FILM CLUB: MIGRATION PG
THU 17 APR / 10.30AM
Hat Factory Arts Centre, £4 each or 4 for £12
A family of ducks decides to leave the safety of a New England pond for an adventurous trip to Jamaica. However, their well-laid plans quickly go awry when they get lost and wind up in New York City. The experience soon inspires them to expand their horizons, open themselves up to new friends, and accomplish more than they ever thought possible.
Stockwood Discovery Centre, £4 per child, 3 - 7 years
Join us at Stockwood Discovery Centre this Spring and enjoy an Easter adventure with the family. Complete our free outdoor trail around the beautiful gardens and find out all about the creatures that reside there. Book ahead for access to our Easter Egg Hunt and craft sessions in the Mossman Gallery including a chocolate egg prize.
LUGUS CERAMICS
MOON ON A STICK THEATRE DMS PRODUCTIONS
UPFRONT COMEDY
SAT 26 APR / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£15, 18+
Upfront Comedy are back in Luton across 2025 with a heavyweight line-up hosted by comedian turned Teletubbie John Simmt. Line-up: Primary school teacher turned comedian Prince Abdi, As seen on 'Live at the Apollo' Fathia El-Ghorri and London-based Northern-Irish stand-up comedian and television host. Michael Legge.
BASEMENT LIVE/S
SAT 26 APR & SAT 7 JUN / 7.45PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£5, Strictly 16+. Under 18s must be wristbanded. ID required. April's Basement Lives will be a special one. Luton Lives promoter Paul Curry will be celebrating 20 years of promoting bands and artists in Luton by bringing together a line up of Rock and Metal from across the years. Expect old faces and new bands.
WHERE'S MRS LADYBIRD?
SUN 27 APR / 10.30AM & 3PM - BABY (0-18 MONTHS)
12PM & 3PM - TODDLER (18 MONTHS - 3 YEARS)
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£15 adult & child / £6 additional person. We're looking for Mrs Ladybird and you can come too. As we search for our spotty friend, Mr Caterpillar, Mrs Bee and Mr Snail play peek-a-boo with you. Moon On A Stick bring their signature style to this familiar title, combining puppetry with mesmerising music and interaction. A live hide and seek story for tiny people to share with their grown-ups.
BOLLYWOOD HUNGAMA - 90S & NOUGHTIES
FRI 2 MAY / 7.30PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
Step into a world of nostalgia and timeless melodies with "Bollywood Hungama", a night dedicated to celebrating the golden era of Bollywood music from the '90s and Noughties. Join us as we revisit the enchanting voices and unforgettable compositions that have defined generations.
LUTON LIVE/S
MOON ON A STICK THEATRE
VINYL REVELATIONS BIRTHDAY BASH
SAT 3 MAY / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£12 in advance/£15 on door, 18+
Andy Chesham's long running Luton institution is celebrating their birthday again at Andy's home venue The Hat Factory. Expect surprise DJ guests and a live band alongside Andy DJing himself showcasing an eclectic mix of music that will keep you dancing all night.
DUCK
THU 8 MAY / 7.30PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£12 Adult/£10 Concession, 12+
It’s the summer of 2005, England prepares to win the Ashes and Ismail (Smiley to his friends), a British Indian schoolboy, is about to become the youngest ever player in his elite public school’s First XI cricket team. He sets his sights on immortality, breaking the school batting record and getting his name into Wisden. But things are about to heat up.
DAN SEALEY
THU 8 MAY / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£10, 16+
Dan now takes his own show on the road, featuring music from all the bands he’s played in, along with the often-hilarious stories he’s amassed along the way – plus material from his forthcoming album.
A NIGHT OF IRISH WITH THE BIBLECODE SUNDAYS
FRI 9 MAY / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£10, 16+
BibleCode Sundays "The Clash on Irish Steroids" hailing from North West London they have been fusing Irish Traditional Music with the guitar-driven sound of London for around 20 years. Their live gigs are both electrifying and beautiful at times, representing the best of London Irish Culture.
VINYL REVELATIONS LTD
TWO MAGPIES THEATRE COMPANY
DAYTIME DISCO REVOLUTION
SAT 10 MAY / 2PM - 6PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£12, 25+
We're bringing our sell-out Daytime Disco for adults to the Hat Factory, and you're invited! All the vibes of a night out, but during the day! Get ready for a unique journey through the 80s, 90s, and 00s with a few other throwback gems thrown in. From pop classics to iconic anthems, we've created the ultimate afternoon party soundtrack.
WIFI WARS
SAT 17 MAY / 2PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£12/ £10 Concession, 6+
WiFi Wars returns with an entirely new show to celebrate their 10th Anniversary! It’s the live comedy game show where you all play along: Log in with your smartphone or tablet and compete in a range of games, puzzles and quizzes to win the show, and prizes!
TOMMY SANDHU: LIVE
SAT 17 MAY / 7PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
Tommy Sandhu: Live! Expect cheeky, a little bit naughty, and ultimately hilarious content as he explores his life, marriage, fatherhood, and career! Come and be a part of the night, forget your worries, and indulge in a big slice of Sandhu.
GEOFF NORCOTT: WORK IN PROGRESS
THU 22 MAY / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£15, 16+
Geoff Norcott is a unique voice in British comedy. Having appeared on Live at the Apoll, Mash Report, Mock the Week and Question Time he's built up a significant love following with sell-out Edinburgh rund and national tours. Join Geoff for this Work in Progress Tour as he trys out some brand new material.
WIFI WARS LTD
LUV ENTERTAINMENT
LGBTIQ+ KARAOKE NIGHT
FRI 23 MAY / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
Free, 18+
Are you a Secret ‘Sing Star’ fanatic? Can you belt out bangers from Whitney and Cher? Then come on down and join us for our LGBTIQ+ Karaoke night. You'll Be Dancing On The Ceiling and we promise you’ll Have The Time Of Your Life as we head into the Bank Holiday weekend With good music in Boogie Wonderland!
NATHAN CATON:
MY BIG FAT BLASIAN WEDDING
FRI 23 MAY / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£15.50, 18+
It's official. Nathan's married and off the market - sorry ladies... and gentlemen! What should've been the happiest time of his life turned out to be the most stressful and expensive time ever. The end result? Well, it was either therapy or turn it into comedy. Nathan chose the latter...
THE SKIDS & SPECIAL GUESTS
SAT 24 MAY / 7.30PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£25, 18+
Very pleased to announce THE SKIDS re coming to play Luton Hat Factory on Saturday 24th May. The Skids were at the heart of the punk scene in Scotland and took their music to London where they were signed by Virgin records. They made 4 albums and had numerous hit singles including Into the Valley, The Saints are Coming, Masquerade and Working for the Yankee Dollar.
THE BELGRAVE HOUSE BAND: BACK TO BLACK
SAT 31 MAY / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£20, 18+
The Belgrave House Band, on a mission to celebrate and honour that historic art form, the album, are back once again for edition No.9 to take on the multi-award winning, chart-topping, Doo Wopping, Soul, Reggae and Jazz masterpiece “Back To Black”. Amy Winehouse’s second and most well-known album produced by the esteemed Mark Ronson and Salaam Remi with The Dap-Kings as backing band.
THE BELGRAVE HOUSE BAND
THE PAD PRESENTS
LIVE NATION
THE CULTURE TRUST LUTON IN PARTNERSHIP WITH PRIDE IN LUTON
MAY HALF-TERM
APPLES AND SNAKES LTD
SAT 24 MAY / 11.30AM & 2PM
Stockwood Discovery Centre
£6, 7-11 Years & their families
Using spoken word, lyrics, visuals and DJ-ing, PLOT17 is an interactive performance for audiences aged 7-12. Join underground hip-hop hero Kenny Baraka AKA The Green Man and DJ D’Vo as they work to save the environment one sick track at a time.
THE VICTORIAN ERA: FAMILY DAY
MON 26 MAY / 11AM – 3PM
Wardown House, Museum and Gallery
Free, All ages
Ever wondered what Victorian life was like? Join us for a day of Victorian living, the good, the bad and the ugly. Whether you're after a slice of sponge cake, want to frolic on the lawn with our giant games or get up close and personal with objects from the past we're waiting to welcome you.
HISTORY KNIGHTS MEDIEVAL WORLD
TUE 27 MAY / 11AM - 3PM
Stockwood Discovery Centre
Free, All ages
Are you ready for a Medieval Adventure? Whether you want to try on a princess crown, join a knightly joust or try your skills on the cross bows there's plenty of fun for all the family as History Knights bring their popular Medieval World to Stockwood Discovery Centre.
TOAD'S CAR AT STOCKWOOD
MON 26 - FRI 30 MAY / 11AM - 4PM
Stockwood Discovery Centre
Free, All ages
Join us over half term and decorate and colour your minature toad to help us decorate a model version of Toad's Car. Inspired by 'The Living Theatre's and Stockwood's shared ethos of being green it will be made from recycled materials and decorated by lots of individual toads coloured by our Stockwood family community.
TOAD'S TROUBLESOME CAR WORKSHOP
WED 28 MAY / 11.30AM & 2PM
Stockwood Discovery Centre
£4, 3 - 7 years
Be inspired by upcycling this half-term and come and create something from nothing! Inspired by The Living Theatre's adaptation of “The Wind in the Willows,” join us and create your own version of the troublesome toad’s car from recycled materials.
FAMILY FILM CLUB: THE WILD ROBOT U
WED 28 MAY / 10.30AM
Hat Factory Arts Centre, £4 each or 4 for £12
Shipwrecked on a deserted island, a robot named Roz must learn to adapt to its new surroundings. Building relationships with the native animals, Roz soon develops a parental bond with an orphaned gosling.
WIND IN THE WILLOWS
THU 29 & FRI 30 MAY / 11.30AM & 2PM
Stockwood Discovery Centre
£7.50, 3+
Sometimes, just stepping out of your front door can lead to a huge adventure! Our hour of storytelling fun will capture young imaginations as everyday objects become shiny motorcars, beautiful boats and warring weasels, in The Living Theatre’s original adaptation of Wind in the Willows.
THE CULTURE TRUST LUTON
THE CULTURE TRUST LUTON
PRIDE IN LUTON FESTIVAL
PRIDE IN LUTON VIGIL
THU 12 JUN / 7PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
Free, Open to All
Join Pride in Luton for their annual vigil to mark the start of the Pride in Luton Festival. This time is to reflect on those we have lose, those taken too soon and to stand in solidary with our LGBTIQ+ siblings across the globe whose rights are being eradicated. We welcome Allies especially to attend.
PRIDE IN LUTON FESTIVAL
SAT 14 JUN / 12PM - 9PM
The Hat District, Hat Factory Arts Centre & Hat Works Free, Open to All
Join Pride in Luton for the festival, now in its 4th year, celebrating the LGBTIQ+ community right here in the Hat District.
Expect music, educational speeches, family zone, teenage only activities, food and craft markets and much more.
This festival is free to attend thanks to the support from of all our sponsors.
PRIDE IN LUTON AFTER PARTY
SAT 14 JUN / 8PM TIL LATE
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£4, 18+
Join us for the official Pride After Party from 8pm until late to carry on the party and dance the night away. DJ Dexxmaster is returning to Luton to keep the tunes going right through until 1am. Tickets are limited so make sure you book yours early! Delivered in partnership with The Culture Trust Luton.
Pride in Luton festival relies on donations. Help us keep the festival free for all. Donate via www.prideinluton.org
PRIDE IN LUTON
PRIDE
UTTER! LUTONIA
THU 5 JUN / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£5/£3 unemployed or unwaged, Strictly 16+
Each UTTER! Lutonia is slightly different but just as full of warmth, joy, challenge, ideas, glorious people and wonderful words. This is a place where divides drop, connections are sparked, words and ideas cross-fertilise and nobody is nobody.
UPFRONT COMEDY
SAT 7 JUN / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£15, 18+
Upfront Comedy are back in Luton with another heavyweight line-up. Join comedy don Curtis Walker, London-Irish gangster John Ryan and French flavour Arielle Souma as they join comedian turned Teletubbie host John Simmit for an evening of belly laughs this summer.
LOVE MUSIC, HATE RACISM
SAT 28 JUN / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£5 in advance, £8 on door, 16+
Experience the power of cultural music in bringing communities together! Celebrate diversity, unity, and positivity through live performances that showcase the beauty of a multicultural society. Join us for an unforgettable event filled with rhythm, passion, and togetherness. Let’s stand against racism through music!
NGYT MUSICAL THEATRE SHOWCASE
SUN 29 JUN / 2PM & 5.30PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£10/£8 Concessions, All ages
Join NGYT’s Musical Theatre Company (featured on BBC Big Night of Musicals 2024) as they present their latest full length original show for 2025.
LOVE MUSIC, HATE RACISM
UPFRONT COMEDY COMEDY
LEE NELSON
JUNE / JULY
COMEDY
EDINBURGH PREVIEWS:
BILAL ZAFAR & ROB AUTON
FRI 6 JUN / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£12, 16+
Luton’s Hat Factory Arts Centre are very pleased to welcome a collection of the best comics working up their new shows for this year’s Edinburgh festival. Bilal Zafar was nominated for the lastminute.com Best Newcomer Award for his debut show, CAKES, at the Edinburgh Fringe. Rob Auton released his book I Strongly Believe in Incredible Things with Harper Collins in Autumn of 2021 to critical acclaim.
AHIR SHAH & MARISE GAUGHAN
THU 19 JUN / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£12, 16+
Luton’s Hat Factory Arts Centre are very pleased to welcome a collection of the best comics working up their new shows for this year’s Edinburgh festival. 2023 Edinburgh Comedy Award winner Ahir Shah is one of the fastest-rising comedians of his generation. Marise Gaughan is a critically-acclaimed comedian and author from Dublin.
ANIA MAGLIANO & TOM ROSENTHAL
FRI 27 JUN / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£12, 16+
Luton’s Hat Factory Arts Centre are very pleased to welcome a collection of the best comics working up their new shows for this year’s Edinburgh festival. Tom Rosenthal, best known for his starring roles in hit ITV show Plebs and Channel 4 sitcom Friday Night Dinner. Ania Magliano, her 2023 stand up show, I Can’t Believe You’ve Done This, was nominated for the Edinburgh Comedy Award for Best Show.
PIERRE NOVELLIE & ANDREW DOHERTY
FRI 4 JUL / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£12, 16+
Luton’s Hat Factory Arts Centre are very pleased to welcome a collection of the best comics working up their new shows for this year’s Edinburgh festival. Pierre Novellie is a stand-up comedian, writer, radio host and podcaster. He is co-host of The Frank Skinner Show on Absolute Radio Andrew Doherty is a queer comedy writer and performer from Manchester, and co-founder of sketch comedy duo Megan from HR with Ambika Mod.
AVALON UK
AVALON UK
AVALON UK
AVALON UK
YEH DOSTI: CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF SHOLAY
SAT 5 JUL / 7.30PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£22, 16+
Join us for an unforgettable evening as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the iconic Bollywood film, Sholay. This spectacular music and dance show will transport you back to the heart of Bollywood's golden era, honouring the legacy of a movie that has captivated audiences for half a century.
WRONG JOVI
FRI 11 JUL / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£15, Under 16s to be accompanied by an adult
So, are you ready for One Wild Night of Bon Jovi hits, live favourites and rarities? Wrong Jovi will transform venues and theatres into stadiums for the ultimate Bon Jovi tribute show. Get your dose of Bad Medicine with Wrong Jovi“The Best Bon Jovi Tribute Band In The World!”
PRIDE IN LUTON QUIZ NIGHT
FRI 25 APR & THU 3 JUL / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£4, 16+
Back by popular demand, The famous Pride in Luton quiz night returns to raise vital funds for the charity. Join us for a fun night of light-hearted quizzing with your hosts from Pride in The Fabulous Hatter. Organise your team of up to 6 people now. If you don't have a team, don't worry you can join another one!
NGYT DOUBLE BILL SHOWCASE
FRI 25 & SAT 26 JUL / 7.30PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£12/ £10 Concession, 14+
Join these young creatives as they share their truths and centre the voices of the Next Generation. A double bill of original dance and theatre by Meraki Dance Company and The NGYT Theatre Company.
PRIDE IN LUTON
WRONG JOVI
AT STOCKWOOD
QUENTIN BLAKE'S
MRS ARMITAGE ON WHEELS
SAT 2 AUG / 1PM & 3PM
Stockwood Discovery Centre
£5, 3+
Adapted from Quentin Blake’s classic tale, Mrs Armitage on Wheels is an interactive, energetic show, celebrating the joy of getting outdoors and being active. Featuring live music, puppetry and physical comedy, Mrs Armitage on Wheels celebrates the power of imagination, the importance of resilience and the joy
COLOURSCAPE
SAT 9 & SUN 10 AUG / 10.30AM
SLOTS EVERY 10 MINUTES
UNTIL 4.30PM
Stockwood Discovery Centre
£9, All ages
Wheelchair friendly
Colourscape comes to Luton for the first time! A large walk-in labyrinth of colour and light will fill the lawn at Stockwood Discovery Centre this August. Visitors are invited to don a primarycoloured cloak to become part of the colour experience and step into a new world of intense colour and light.
BREADCRUMBS
SUN 24 AUG / 11.30 & 2PM
Stockwood Discovery Centre
£6, 3+
Hansel and Gretel argue about everything: who's the loudest, the fastest, and how they ended up lost in the forest one day?! But with only a trail of breadcrumbs to guide them home, they'll have to put aside their differences to make it home in time for tea!
STOCKWOOD’S LIVING HISTORY FESTIVAL
SAT 30 & SUN 31 AUG / 11AM - 5PM
Stockwood Discovery Centre
£6 each or 4 for £20, All ages
Join us at Stockwood Discovery Centre as we journey through time as history comes alive. This two day festival features a variety of living history encampments, recreating a glimpse of daily life from years gone by. From medieval knights to heritage craft demonstrations, visitors can interact with historical reenactors, have a go at skills such as archery or listen to the musical sounds of our past. Come and experience Stockwood as it travels back in time.
DISCOVERY GOLF AT STOCKWOOD
SAT 19 JUL - FRI 29 AUG
11AM - 5PM
Stockwood Discovery Centre £4 for 60 minutes
Get ready for a wild and wacky golfing adventure! Launching this summer, our brand-new crazy golf course is packed with 9 holes of non-stop fun, perfect for everyone from little tikes to the young at heart. Each hole is a quirky tribute to Luton’s rich history, combining the town’s iconic past with a fun, playful twist.
BOOK AHEAD
LUTON AID 20
FRI 5 & SAT 6 SEP / (FRI) 7PM & (SAT) 12PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£10 (Fri), £15 (Sat) or £20 for both days - 20% multibuy discount, 16+ LutonAid returns to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the much-loved local music festival that started in 2005. This music extravaganza will see firm favourites from Luton's live music scene reunite to perform once again and showcase new talent. As with all LutonAid events, this is a charity fundraiser and will once again raise much needed funds for Keech Hospice.
DESI CENTRAL
SAT 20 SEP / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£18, 18+
Get ready folks, Desi Central returns with another hilarious line up… so round up your friends & family and join us for an uplifting night of laughter with this infamous tour!
Headliner: Tez Ilyas (Mock The Week BBC, Comedy Central)
HAL CRUTTENDEN: CAN DISH BUT CAN'T TAKE IT
FRI 10 OCT / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£20, 16+
Hal is back with a brand-new tour for 2025 with a show that promises to stick it to ‘The Man’, as long as ‘The Man’ doesn’t stick it back to him.
KAE KURD: WHAT'S O'KURD
SAT 25 OCT / 7PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£20, 16+
Stand up sensation and social media star Kae Kurd returns with his highly anticipated brand new tour: What’s O’Kurd. Co-host of the hit podcast Aint Got a Clue, star of Live at the Apollo (BBC), Mock the Week (BBC Two), Celebrity Masterchef (BBC One) and The Apprentice: You’re Fired (BBC Two).
COMEDY
BLUE BOOK ARTIST MANAGEMENT
BOOK AHEAD
UK DECAY
SAT 8 NOV / 7PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£25, 18+
Post-punk pioneers UK Decay will be playing a hometown show in Luton to coincide with the vinyl re-release of their seminal album For Madmen Only. UK Decay built an international fan base on the back of politically charged, thunderous releases, and high intensity gigs.
CALLY BEATON: NAMASTE MOTHERF*CKERS
THU 13 NOV / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£20, 18+
A quick-witted, unexpected and unapologetic insight into life in midlife. Combining Cally’s comedic and storytelling prowess with extracts from her provocative, stereotype-busting book, Namaste Motherf*ckers is a celebration of and for the female of the species.
KINGS OF LYON & UK STROKES
SAT 15 NOV / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£15, 16+
Kings of Lyon are widely known as the best; the most accurate and vibrant tribute to the Kings of Leon. An astounding live set incorporating favourites from 'Youth and young Manhood' to 'Walls.' The UK Strokes are a revered tribute band delivering dynamic performances that encapsulate the essence and vitality of the iconic band.
SPECIAL KINDA MADNESS
SAT 22 NOV / 7.30PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£16, 18+
Special Kinda Madness return to Luton following their sell out show in 2024 with their classic take on Madness and The Specials. Truly authentic setS from each band, combining the phenomenally energetic stage presence of The Specials with the wonderful iconic tunes of the Madness ‘Nutty Boys’.
LIVE AND UNPLUGGED AGENCY
VINYL REVELATONS LTD
GAG REFLEX MANAGEMENT COMEDY
Photo credit - Natasha Pszenicki.
BOOK AHEAD
SUSTAINABILITY WITHIN THE CREATIVE INDUSTRIES’ FILM & PANEL DISCUSSION
SAT 20 SEP / 11AM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£8, 16+
Introduced by a short film, an expert panel brings in-depth knowledge of the field of sustainability and explores questions of sustainability within the creative industries. The panel discussion is organised by The British Hat Guild to complement the ‘Making Headway: Celebrating Sustainability in Hats’ exhibition.
PANEL DISCUSSION: MAKING HEADWAY:
CELEBRATING
SAT 20 SEP / 3PM
SUSTAINABILITY IN HATS
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£8, 16+
Hear leading UK milliners of The British Hat Guild discuss the processes behind the creation of their hats on display in ‘Making Headway: Celebrating Sustainability in Hats’. Ask questions and learn what motivates top milliners to work sustainably and what sustainability means in hatmaking, past and future.
MATERIALS MARKET
SAT 20 SEP / 10AM - 5PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
Free, All ages
A must for all you creatives out there! This Materials Market is an opportunity to browse and buy sustainably-produced materials for millinery or other design. Set up in conjunction with the free British Hat Guild’s ‘Making Headway: Celebrating Sustainability in Hats’ exhibition.
MAKING HEADWAY: CELEBRATING SUSTAINABILITY IN HATS EXHIBITION
SAT 20 SEP - SAT 15 NOV / MON - THU, 10AM - 5PM
Hat Works
Free, 16+
The 3rd British Hat Guild exhibition at Hat Works showcases the incredible hats of many leading UK milliners. It spotlights the creative ways milliners are working towards a greener footprint: from the traditional use of natural materials, to upcycling and the use of waste and innovative new generation materials.
TH BRITISH HAT GUILD
THE BRITISH HAT GUILD
THE INDIANS ARE COMING
SUN 23 NOV / 7.30PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£18, 18+
Balle Balle! The Indians Are Coming… so round up your friends and join us for an uplifting night of laughter! If you’ve never been to one of these nights before then get ready for belly laughs that are big enough to burn off an entire Biryani! It’s a comedy night with a tantalising thali of talent.
JOHN ROBERTSON PLAYS WITH HIS AUDIENCE
THU 29 NOV / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£15, 16+
BOOK AHEAD
★★★★ “A force of nature” – Daily Telegraph - Top 10 Best-Reviewed Shows Edinburgh Fringe 2024
90 minutes of improv, mayhem, gaming comedy, crowdwork and songs from the UK’s most manic comic on his first-ever stand-up tour! Best known for his high-octane improvisation and game show The Dark Room, come get played with!
STEPHEN K AMOS: NOW WE'RE TALKING
FRI 5 DEC / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£22, 16+
How good’s a laugh? My joke book is overflowing, so let’s get talking about what gives me the ick and what makes me tick. It’s time to get down to the nitty gritty. No filter, no limits. The gloves are off and I’m packing a punchline, so let’s speak easy and laugh freely.
THE DEKKERTONES
SAT 13 DEC / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£13 Earlybird, £16, £20 on door, 18+
The DekkerTones return to The Hat Factory to party! An 8-piece ska covers band playing authentic ska and reggae from the late 60's Trojan and Bluebeat scene right through to the 2tone era. Packing out venues around the region this mighty warhorse play a set of over 2 hours getting the party started in the room every time.
BOUND & GAGGED COMEDY
LUV ENTERTAINMENT
LGBTIQ+ REGULAR PROGRAMME
SUNDAY SOCIALS
SUN 27 APR, SUN 18 MAY & SUN 20 JUL / 1PM - 4PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
Free, All ages
Meet with old and new friends, take part in activities, board games and themed activities. Each month’s activities will vary in response to feedback from the attendees and wider community.
LUTON TRANS+ ADMIN GROUP
EVERY 1ST TUE OF THE MONTH / 6.30PM - 9PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
Free, 18+
We are a safe and inclusive space for adults who identify as transgender, non-binary, or gender nonconforming. Our group believes in creating an empowering and supportive community that helps individuals on their gender journey.
QUEER AND CRAFTY GROUP
EVERY 4TH TUE OF THE MONTH / 6.30PM - 9PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
Free, All ages
This group will bring together people who are working on their own arty projects in a sociable setting. It doesn't matter if you enjoy drawing, knitting, painting, doodling, felt craft or anything else, instead of doing by yourself come and enjoy others company. You may even be able to share your skills with somebody! Supported through The National Lottery Community Fund.
PROUD PARENT NETWORK GROUP
EVERY 2ND WED OF THE MONTH / 7PM - 9PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
Free, All ages
Our parent support group offers the chance for those with LGBTIQ+ children to come together for peer-to-peer conversations. These conversations will help to respond to questions you may have and support you so you can support your child.
Not attended a group before, don’t worry our friendly session hosts will make sure you feel welcome. These groups are supported by The National Lottery Community Fund.
PRIDE IN LUTON
PRIDE IN LUTON
PRIDE IN LUTON
REGULAR PROGRAMME
SWIRL NIGHTCLUB
LAST TUE OF THE MONTH / 7PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£5 / Free Carer Ticket, Strictly 18+
Bedfordshire’s Biggest Disability Club Night! Each night features Live DJs, state of the art sound and lighting, fully flat accessible venue, with toilets, licensed bar, and much more.
ARTISAN FOOD, ARTS & CRAFT MARKET
EVERY 2ND SUN OF THE MONTH, 11AM - 5PM
Stockwood Discovery Centre
Free entry, All ages
Our monthly Artisan Market is a unique shopping experience held in the Mossman Galleries, which house one of the largest carriage collections in Europe. With a varied selection of hand-made crafts, food and drinks, there's something for everyone.
BINGO NATION
SUN 27 APR, SUN 22 JUN & SUN 17 AUG / 5PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£15 / 18+
Fun, games and music is now the way forward for entertainment, with that being said the team have put together a package that will give you FUN, GAMES AND MUSIC with a new event called BINGO NATION.
OPEN MIC NIGHT
EVERY 3RD THURS OF THE MONTH FOR APRIL - JULY / 7PM - 10PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre, £5 in advance, £8 on door, 16+
Don't miss Luton's open mic night at the Hat Factory. Showcase your skills and join the excitement! Join your host, local Lutonian and Britain's Got Talent semi-finalist, Yvonne Michele in an evening of encouragement in finding your voice, stepping into the light, and shining.
SOUL:CINE: FILM IN PERSPECTIVE
FRI 30 MAY & FRI 18 JUL / DOORS - 6.30PM, FILM - 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£8, 16+
SOUL:CINÉ bi-monthly cinema club, is for film lovers to forge friendships, old & new, whilst basking in the glow and wonder of Black Cinema, in the heart of Luton’s cultural quarter.
BOUTIQUE SOUL
EVERY 2ND FRI OF THE MONTH FROM MAY - JUL / 8PM - MIDNIGHT
Hat Factory Arts Centre Free, 16+
Boutique Soul is an eclectic night of soul music from the past, present and future. Provided by seasoned DJs/selectors who live, breathe and deliver soul music unapologetically.
SOUL:CINE
LUTON URBAN RADIO MUSIC
BLACK BOX BOYS
THE SKILL LAB
CREATIVE INDUSTRY NETWORK
The Culture Trust Luton supports local creatives through the Creative Industry Network, offering resources like a database of creatives, networking events, commissions, and start-up support - all based at the Hat District.
CREATIVE INDUSTRY NETWORK MONTHLY EVENTS
EVERY 2ND WED OF THE MONTH / 7PM – 9PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre, Free entry, 18+
Join us at the Hat District for our monthly Creative Industry Network events. These evenings bring together creative professionals and industry experts for networking, guest speakers, and knowledge exchange. Ideal for emerging and established creative businesses and start-ups from Luton and beyond. Book your tickets at www.culturetrust.com or scan the QR code.
SHOWCASE YOUR CREATIVE PRACTICE:
Do you want to showcase your work, collaborate on an upcoming project, or practice your creative pitch? The floor is yours! Prepare a 5-minute presentation, get in touch, and be heard by the audience at the networking events.
EVERY 3RD FRIDAY OF THE MONTH
7.30PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£6, 16+
THE COMEDY BAR LINE UP
Gather your friends for an evening in our Basement Bar with compere Jake Pickford. This season features many of comedy’s rising star’s including one of the hottest talents on the comedy circuit, Lateef Lovejoy. Check our website for future line ups.
FRI 18 APR:
HL: Russell Arathhoon Supports: Rick Murtagh, Marc Salmon, + 2 more TBC
FRI 16 MAY:
HL: Kathryn Mathers
Supports: Pete White, Danny Walsh, Desmond Feheely, Nicole Harris
FRI 20 JUN:
HL: Dom LTR
Supports: Dylan Dodds, Siobhan Dodd, CK Nath, Ian Lane
FRI 18 JUL:
HL: Lenny Sherman
Supports Richard White + 3 TBC
ELSEWHERE IN THE HAT DISTRICT / TAP
CALLING ALL CREATIVES!
If you are launching your creative business or thinking about it, you can’t afford to miss this: start-up support programme launching soon!
To find out more: www.hatdistrict.co.uk
Contact the project coordinator: jakub.rokita@culturetrust.com or drop in to Hat Works on
Situated in the heart of Luton’s Hat District, our spaces are specifically designed and curated to support Luton’s thriving creative ecology.
HAT WORKS
Creative Workspace
Hat Works is a refurbished workspace for creative businesses looking for affordable hot-desking in central Luton. This unique co-working space is ideal for microbusinesses, graduates and entrepreneurs looking to develop their creative ideas, services or products. Membership starts from just £7.50 a day with monthly membership from £99.
Find out more and join today: www.hatdistrict.co.uk
47 Guildford Street, LU1 2NQ
PARTICIPATION
DARE TO SOAR
WED 30 APR & WED 25 JUN / 7PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
Free, Strictly 18+
Dare To Soar Higher (DTSH) - Looking for a warm, inviting space to grow and thrive? The DTSH project is here for you. Our mission is to provide both preventative and post-trauma support, empowering women and their families to connect, learn, and flourish within the community.
BIG HAT FACTORY COMMUNITY CHOIR
EVERY WED / 7PM - 9PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
Join the BIG Hat Factory Community Choir and transform your Wednesdays into something extraordinary! We come together to sing a diverse array of songs, spanning pop, rock, reggae, soul, musical theatre, and beyond. No auditions required everyone and every voice is welcome.
NEXT GENERATION YOUTH THEATRE
REGULAR WEEKLY CLASSES
MON / TUE / WED / FRI / FROM 5PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
We care. We Listen. We Create. We Are NGYT.
Next Generation Youth Theatre provide Theatre, Dance & Arts opportunities for ALL young people aged 0 to 25. Encouraging ambition, amplifying voices and supporting wellbeing.
Sign up to classes and try for free www.ngyt.co.uk #NGYTfamily
DIARY LISTING
DIARY LISTING
Hundreds of thousands of cultural engagements made possible each year.
Across a number of venues in Luton’s famous Hat District, the Culture Trust delights, intrigues and entertains hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. This is supported by an annual donation of almost £1.5 million from Luton Rising, the Luton Council company that owns the airport for community benefit. Indeed, Luton Rising is the leading funder of culture and the arts in Luton.
It’s part of our company’s incredible track record of success and capital investment in the fabric of Luton and local communities. Since 1998, we have provided more than £300m to support vital local front-line services, together with an additional £180m for community investment projects that have transformed the lives of tens of thousands of vulnerable people.
Read more at lutonrising.org.uk
ABOUT THE CULTURE TRUST
VISITOR & BOOKING INFO
The Culture Trust, Luton is an arts and cultural charity that connects communities through culture at Wardown House, Museum & Gallery, Stockwood Discovery Centre and the Hat Factory Arts Centre and Hat District Creative Industry Cluster. Our museums are free to enter and we welcome you to explore our incredible collections and galleries.
Where to find us
Our venue opening times are as follows:
Stockwood Discovery Centre, Gardens and Museum, LU1 4LX
Free entry - Wed – Sun, 10am – 4pm
Wardown House, Museum & Gallery
LU2 7HA
Free entry - Sun – Thu, 11am - 5pm
Hat Factory Arts Centre, LU1 2EY
Open Daily
Hat Works, LU1 2NJ
Hot-desk creative spaceMon – Thu, 10am – 5pm
Hat Factory Arts Centre
65 - 67 Bute Street, Luton, LU1 2EY
Email: boxoffice@culturetrust.com
Telephone: 01582 878 100
With special thanks to:
What We Do
We are dedicated to giving everyone the chance to take part in learning, cultural events and activities. Your support will help us amplify our work, including:
· Widen community participation at our sites and museums
· Develop young people’s skills and talents
· Present inspiring and diverse arts
· Co-curate museum collections
· Grow Luton’s creative industry cluster and boost the creative economy
Designed by: Karen Pearson
SAT 6 - WED 24 DEC 2025 / VARIOUS TIMES
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£12.50, 3+ and their families
December 2025
STOCKWOOD ILLUMINATED 2025
DEC 2025 / VARIOUS TIMES
Stockwood Discovery Centre
From £6, All ages
Stockwood Illuminated; Luton's Biggest Light trail returns for December 2025. We invite you to join us for our winter light celebration set against the backdrop of the beautiful gardens at Stockwood Discovery Centre.
Don’t forget to book your visit to Santa to complete your festive visit to Stockwood this year.
Get ready for giggles galore in this wild, high-energy adventure. Perfect for all ages the show celebrates love, laughter and the beauty of families of all shape and sizes. The Three Bears flips the classic fairytale of Goldilocks on its head and is packed full of surprises, slapstick chaos and heart-warming twists. A delightful theatre experience bursting with fun that all children everywhere will treasure forever.
