The Culture Trust Luton - What's On Jun - Dec 2025
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 Opening Hours
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.
Wed - Sun 11am - 5pm
SEASON AT A GLANCE
LAST CHANCE / STILL BOOKING
EDINBURGH PREVIEWS:
SELLING FAST
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.
LOVE MUSIC, HATE RACISM LUTON
SAT 28 JUN / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£5 in adv / £8 on the 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! Line up: Wiseiris, Ghuraba Music, The Hanging Bandits and Mariam Daniel.
COSMIN NATANTICU
SAT 28 JUN / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£30, 18+
Don’t miss an unforgettable night of laughter with Cosmin Natanticu! Join us for an exclusive comedy event packed with fun, jokes, and Romanian humour at its best. Limited seats available – book now and bring your friends for an evening you won’t stop talking about! Luton, be ready!
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.
AVALON UK
EDINBURGH PREVIEWS:
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.
YEH DOSTI: CELEBRATING
50 YEARS OF SHOLAY
SAT 5 JUL & MON 7 SEP / 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
The Multi-Award-Winning Wrong Jovi are widely considered to be “the best Bon Jovi tribute band in the world" are returning to Luton! Performing a set of greatest hits, live favourites and rarities, the band ensure that there is something for the casual follower and even the most die hard of Bon Jovi fans.
MORLEY COLLEGE:
CELEBRATING DIVERSITY IN HEADWEAR
MON 14 JUL - THU 28 AUG / (SUN - THU) 11AM - 5PM
Wardown House, Museum & Gallery Free, Suitable for all Morley College’s millinery students were challenged to research and explore materials, techniques, and processes seen in global headwear to create a hat. Paying particular attention to sustainable practices, the students showcase their exceptional craftsmanship and creativity in this homage to the world’s hats.
AVALON UK
MORLEY COLLEGE
JULY
DRISHTI: THE GAZE OF THE BELOVED
SAT 19 JUL / 6.30PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£12 / £10 Concession, All ages
Odissi dancers Elena Catalano and Katie Ryan use the power of the gaze, the drishti to take the audience on a journey through varying emotional states from the awe of the divine to the playfulness of rhythm patterns, erotic pleasure to renunciation. The full gamut of human experience is explored. The dancers like the sun and moon have contrasting qualities that adds layers to an evening of variety and enjoyment.
CHAMBERLANE
SAT 19 JUL / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£10, Suitable for all - under 14s to be accompanied by an adult Chamberlane return to the Hat Factory after performing at the St Patrick's Day event! Rooted in their Irish heritage, the band showcased a delightful mix of traditional and contemporary Irish tunes. From the very moment they launched into a power-driven cover of Fontaines D.C.’s ‘Jackie Down The Line’, the atmosphere was charged with excitement, paving the way for a truly remarkable show.
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.
SOUTH ASIAN WOODBLOCK WORKSHOP
SAT 26 JUL / 2PM - 4PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£10, 16+
Join us to celebrate traditional South Asian art in this hands-on Woodblock Printing Workshop, where creativity meets culture! Participants will explore the rich artistic heritage of South Asia through the use of authentic Indian woodblocks, carved with timeless motifs. All participants will design and carve their own lino-cut motifs, creating a personalised stamp.
Funded by The Steel Charitable Trust as part of the Luton Matters Programme.
KADAM DANCE
CHAMBERLANE MUSIC
JULY / AUGUST
MUSIC IN THE MUSEUM
SUN 27 JUL / 2PM
Wardown House, Museum & Gallery
£15, 12+
Step into a captivating musical odyssey, as the world-class musicians of the Sinfonia Verdi Ensemble continues its journey bringing to life the revolutionary spirit of Beethoven. Let the power of these masterpieces transport you on a journey that transcends time and celebrates his lasting impact on the classical music landscape.
BUTE STREET FILM FESTIVAL
THU 31 JUL - SAT 2 AUG
31 JUL (5PM - 10PM), FRI 1 & SAT 2 AUG (12PM - 10PM)
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£12.75 (31 Jul), £18.75 (1 & 2 Aug) / £6.75 Art and Music only, 14+
The moment Bute Street festival fans have been eagerly awaiting is here! As your BIFA Qualifying festival, our submissions hit an all-time high, promising a jam-packed program for an unforgettable experience!
RUTS DC
WED 6 AUG / 7PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£27.50 Adv, £33 on door, 18+
This is a special one off non tour show. Expect to hear a long set mixing up the classics like 'In A Rut', 'Babylons Burning', 'West One', 'Something That I Said'. 'SUS', 'Staring At The Rude Boys' alongside modern classics from the reformed band.
BOOMBASTIC'S DAYTIME DISCO:
80S, 90S & 00S HITS!
SAT 30 AUG & SAT 1 NOV / 2PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£12, 18+
Luton, following our sell-out debut, The DAYTIME DISCO Revolution is back 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. Surprises, confetti, and non-stop fun. All the party vibes, home before dark!
SINFONIA VERDI ENSEMBLE
AT STOCKWOOD
JULY & AUGUST 2025
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.
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 of embracing the great outdoors.
STOCKWOOD GARDEN PARTY 2025
MON 4 - WED 6 AUG / 11AM - 3PM
Stockwood Discovery Centre
Free entry, no booking required, All ages Join us for three magical days of free family fun this summer! Live performances: Neville the Squirrel’s Stories Arts and crafts, Woodland Adventures and nature trails, Whimsical theatre, Recycle Garden Art workshops. Accessible, inclusive and creative fun for all ages. Come and celebrate community, creativity and nature – don’t miss it!
FROM TUE 22 JUL - THU 28 AUG / EVERY TUE & THU / 11AM – 5PM
Join us every Tuesday and Thursday during the summer holidays for free activities to help keep the kids occupied. Learn all about famous historical eras with arts and crafts and more on our Terrific Tuesdays and On our Tree-mendous Thursdays join us for a nature themed scavenger hunt and arts and crafts! Various sessions throughout the day, no need to book. See our socials for more details each week!
COLOURSCAPE
SAT 9 & SUN 10 AUG / 10.30AM
SLOTS EVERY 10 MINUTES
UNTIL 4.30PM
Stockwood Discovery Centre
£9, All ages
Wheelchair friendly
BREADCRUMBS
SUN 24 AUG / 11.30 & 2PM
Stockwood Discovery Centre
£6, 3+
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.
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.
Join artist Tamara Nkrumah to draw and imagine crating your own park.This playful workshop invites children to imagine a park like no other. Through colouring, collage, and storytelling, they’ll dream up their own wildly inventive park — complete with strange slides, magical swings, curious creatures, and anything else they can imagine.
PEOPLE WHO LIVE IN THE SKIES
TUE 5 AUG / 11.30AM & 2PM
Wardown House, Museum and Gallery
Free, 3 - 7 years
Exploring topical environmental issues, People who lived in the Skies is an enchanting, exciting and engaging tale using exhilarating storytelling movement of Kathak dance. Expect rotten vegetables, stormy winds and thunderous clouds...oh and a tree that may or may not blossom...
Join artist Moriam Grillo in the Drawing room at Wardown Museum where you can play with clay and take your make away with you.
AFRICAN DRUMMING & STORY TELLING
MON 18 & TUE 19 AUG / 11.15AM & 2PM
Wardown House, Museum and Gallery
Free, 3 - 7 years
Free Fun Sessions! Storytelling and African drumming, led by Martin Hanson from Osagyefo. These sessions are on a first come first served basis as there are limited spaces available.
Inspired by our hat exhibition join Klaudia who guide you through to making and decorating your own hat to wear and take away with you!
AMINA KHAYAAM DANCE CO
TAMARA NKRUMAH
MORIAM GRILLO
UTTER! LUTONIA
THU 4 SEP / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£6/£4 Concession, 16+
An eclectic and ever-changing line-up of Spoken Word (and sometimes musical) talent from Luton, London and further afield. Line-up: Paul Rafferty, Rae Leaver-Rahman, Gary Abram Mark Billington, Britny Virginia and David Cain.
LUTONAID 20
FRI 5 SEP / 7PM & SAT 6 SEP / 12PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£10 (Fri), £15 (Sat), £20.00 (Both days – 20% multibuy discount), 16+ LutonAid returns to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the muchloved 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.
BIG PRIDE PICNIC
SUN 7 SEP / 1PM - 4PM
Stockwood Discovery Centre Free, All ages
Come and join Pride in Luton and the wider LGBTIQ+ community for a relaxed afternoon of family fun, games and entertainment at Stockwood Discovery Centre. Bring your own picnic and share in the lawn games on offer enjoying the end of the Summer sunshine.
SAMBROSO ALL STARS
FRI 12 SEP / 7PM DOORS, 8PM START
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£22, 18+
Is there a more iconic Cuban album than the Grammy winning Buena Vista Social Club’s eponymous debut? Sambroso Noda, the beating heart of London’s Cuban community and flourishing music scene, has whipped up a bonafide ‘all star’ group of Cuban musicians who will pay their own unique and loving tribute to the landmark album. Join the Sambroso All Stars, a 7-piece band, promising to mesmerise the crowd with their combination of Cuban Son, Latin Jazz and Rumba, from Cuba’s Golden era.
LEE NELSON
LUTONAID
SEPTEMBER
MAKING HEADWAY:
CELEBRATING SUSTAINABILITY
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 SUSTAINABILITY IN HATS
SAT 20 SEP / 3PM
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
TUNES & CHAT: A WINDRUSH SPECIAL
SAT 13 SEP / 8.30PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£15 early bird (20th July) then £20 thereafter, 18+
Get your dancing shoes on, and alert your ears, as John Simmit takes you on a DJ journey around the hit tunes of the Windrush generation, and supplies timely tales of the era that inspired the them.
AN EVENING WITH AIRLINE’S
JANE BOULTON
FRI 19 SEP / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£22, 14+
Expect lively anecdotes, a glimpse into the world of airline customer service, and plenty of laughs as Jane shares unforgettable moments from the series and her career.
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!
Line Up: Tez Ilyas (Mock The Week BBC, Comedy Central) Shalaka Kurup (King Gong) | Nabil Abdulrashid (BBC Live At The Apollo, | Dinesh Nathan (BBC, Comedy Central Live).
STORY OF ONE, STORY OF MANY
THU 25 SEP / 7.30PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£10 / £8 Concession, All ages
Choreographed by Amina Khayyam, with Kathak composition collaboration with Debasish Mukerjee three Kathak dancers weave individual stories accompanied by live music featuring tabla and cello.
HERITAGE ASSOCIATES
AMINA KHAYYAM DANCE COMPANY
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER
NOASIS
SAT 27 SEP / 8.15PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£16 adv / 18.50 on door, 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.
COMEDY
BLUE BOOK ARTIST MANAGEMENT
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.
CATCH YOUR BREATH: THE SECRET LIFE OF A SLEEPLESS ANAESTHETIST
SAT 18 OCT / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£16, 16+
NHS anaesthetist, comedian and author (oooooh check him) Ed Patrick injects Luton with a gut-punch hilarious show about becoming a junior doctor, the NHS, the pitfalls of modern medicine and the power of questioning it.
BIBLECODE SUNDAYS
IRISH NIGHT WITH THE BIBLECODE SUNDAYS
FRI 31 OCT & FRI 12 DEC / 8.15PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£10, 14+
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 REVELATONS LTD
MAKIN PROJECTS
BLACK HISTORY MONTH
BEING BLACK IN LUTON
THU 2 OCT / 7.30PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre Free, 14+
Back by popular demand celebrating Black History, and continuing to drive open and meaningful conversations in Luton.An evening of discussion centred around the National Black History Month Theme 2025; Standing firm in Power & Pride.
UPFRONT COMEDY
SAT 4 OCT / SAT 6 DEC / 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 SIMMIT.
CURATE A CASE
MON 6 OCT - SUN 18 JAN / (SUN - THU) 11AM - 5PM
Wardown House, Museum & Gallery
Free, All ages
Local Communities will curate a selection of objects that represent them and their culture, this will be showcased in our new space, opening during Black History month. We are working with the Ghana Society who will showcase a selection of headwear from Ghanaian Culture.
BHM MUSIC QUIZ
THU 9 OCT / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£20 for team of 4 or £7, 16+
Over 5 rounds of global and UK Black history, geography, music, film, TV, and Literature, will your team reign supreme, and hold aloft the Linford Seacole Kaluuya Bassey Trophy? Hosted by the one and only Rich Chocolate.
COBO COMEDY SHUTDOWN
FRI 24 OCT / 7.30PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£22, 18+
COBO : Comedy Shutdown proudly presents our Black History Month Special, hitting venues across the UK this October! Gather your friends and family for an unforgettable evening of uproarious laughter and celebration.
THE GHANA SOCIETY
OCTOBER HALF-TERM
THE BIG DRAW AT STOCKWOOD
SAT 25 - FRI 31 OCT / 11AM - 5PM
Stockwood Discovery Centre, Free, All ages Come and get involved in the National Initiative “The Big Draw” at Stockwood. Grab a pencil and some paper from reception and find something around the site that inspires you! The theme this year is Draw Together and we will be using everyone’s art to create a giant masterpiece!
FAMILY FILM CLUB: THE ADDAMS FAMILY 2
MON 27 OCT / 10.30AM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£4 or 4 for £12, Rated PG Gomez gets worried that the children have been growing apart from him and Morticia. He decides to go on a family vacation and packs everyone into their haunted camper.
Wardown House, Museum and Gallery Free, 3 - 7 years
Taking inspiration from the Ghanaian headwear exhibition curated by The Ghana Society, join us in the drawing room at Wardown Museum to explore some arts and crafts from Ghanaian Culture.
SHED ACHE
TUE 28 OCT / 11.30AM & 2PM
Stockwood Discovery Centre £9, 2+
Shed-ache is a seriously silly dance theatre show that transports little people and their grown ups to a world that sits somewhere between reality and make believe.
GRANDAD ANANSI
WED 29 OCT / 11.30AM & 2PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£9, 4 - 9 years
Abi and her Grandad tell each other Anansi folktales. They play games as they work together in the garden among the beautiful flowers and tasty vegetables. As they plant memories, they share secrets and develop a bond that nothing can break.
CINDERELLA ICE CREAM SELLER
THU 30 OCT / 11.30AM & 2PM
Stockwood Discovery Centre
£9, 5+
Get your dessert spoons ready for a tale of perseverance, princes, palace balls, glass slippers and, um, ice cream? Cinderella’s has become the kingdom’s most beloved ice cream company. But how did a humble ice cream maker end up her own ice cream empire? This exciting musical retelling of a fairytale classic promises a delightful blend of storytelling, stunning live music, and theatrical magic that will capture your heart and tickle your taste buds.
HALLOWEEN AT STOCKWOOD
FRI 31 OCT / 11.30AM, 1PM & 2.30PM
Stockwood Discovery Centre
£4 child only, 3+
Calling all witches, vampires and ghouls! We make no bones about it, we have some spooky fun for you! Come and join in with our eerie arts, ghostly crafts and terrifying trail! Enter at your own risk!
WIFI WARS HALLOWEEN SPECIAL
FRI 31 OCT / 2PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£12/£10 concessions, 6+
WiFi Wars returns with a very spooky version of 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!
HALF MOON YOUNG PEOPLE’S THEATRE
LITTLE SEED MUSIC
THE CULTURE TRUST LUTON
WIFI WARS LTD
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER
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).
LUTON LAUGHS WITH LUR
SAT 1 NOV / 8.30PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£25, 18+
Join Luton Urban Radio for an evening of love, laughs and entertainement with some of the nations most acclaimed comedians. Cool, Charming & Conscious, Mr Cee is the ‘Urbane Comedian’ & one to watch who will be joined by Aurie Styla and the rest of the line-up to be confirmed.
UKDECAY
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.
VINYL REVELATONS LTD
UTC LIVE LTD
LUTON URBAN RADIO
CALLY BEATON: NAMASTE MOTHERF***ERS
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***ers is a celebration of and for the female of the species. Photo credit - Natasha Pszenicki
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.
BOOMBASTIC SILENT FAMILY DISCO
SUN 16 NOV / 2PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
Earlybird: £10 each, £35 for 4 / On the door, £12 each, £42 for 4 Get Ready for the ULTIMATE FAMILY SILENT DISCO! Have you ever tried dancing like nobody's watching... with headphones? No dance skills needed, just bring your energy and sense of fun! Three channels means everyone in the family finds their perfect music vibe. At our Family Silent Disco, everyone gets their own soundtrack, kids can bounce to Party Hits while parents groove to 80s/90s/00s favourites all in the same space! Dance together, find your vibe!
CAUGHT IN A LIE
FRI 21 NOV / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£22.50, 14+
One Woman. One Story. A Journey of Healing and Hope. Through a soul-stirring blend of Lovers Rock, Gospel, and more, experience a deeply emotional and uplifting performance that celebrates the strength of the human spirit. This is more than just a show it's a testament to resilience, the healing power of music, and the triumph of the human heart.
BOOM EVENTS
GAG REFLEX MANAGEMENT
YVONNE MICHELE MUSIC
LIVE AND UNPLUGGED AGENCY
NOVEMBER
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’.
LUV ENTERTAINMENT LTD
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.
THE CHAOS THAT HAS BEEN AND WILL NO DOUBT RETURN
THU 27 NOV / 7.30PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£12/£10 concessions, 12+
★★★★ “Brims with boisterousness” The Guardian
★★★★★ “A Masterclass in storytelling” Theatre Weekly
Following a sold out Edinburgh Fringe run last year, Luton's own Chalk Line Theatre, return home to close their national tour. Told with biting wit and lyrical intensity, this production is a powerful exploration of class and identity, with a cracking house party that pulses round the corner.
TOM LUCY: GOLDEN BOY
FRI 28 NOV / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£20, 14+
Award winning comedian Tom Lucy is embarking on his biggest solo tour with his brand new show ‘Golden Boy’. As Tom approaches the end of his 20s, he reflects on the previous decade in all its exciting and wild glory and expresses his anxieties for life moving forward.
CHALKLINE THEATRE
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER
JOHN ROBERTSON PLAYS WITH HIS AUDIENCE
SAT 29 NOV / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£15, 16+
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!
★★★★ “A force of nature” – Daily Telegraph Top 10 Best-Reviewed Shows Edinburgh Fringe 2024
UTTER! LUTONIA PRESENTS HENRY NORMAL
THU 4 DEC / 8PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£10/£8 concession, 16+
"Witty and uncannily accurate with his observations" - The Stage
Bafta award winning screenwriter, BBC podcaster and seasoned poet Henry Normal is coming to Luton for an intimate gig. Henry has written and performed 10 x BBC Radio 4 shows combining comedy, poetry and stories about family. He performs poetry at Literature Festival's around the UK and has 12 poetry books.
"Dovetails bittersweet poetry with a sublimely observant wit." The Guardian
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 the 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.
Christmas STOCKWOOD AT STOCKWOOD ILLUMINATED 2025
“This place is Magical”*
“Amazing, best night ever”*
“Really enjoyable, lovely for young families and older people and everyone in between”*
Stockwood Discovery Centre
£7.50 Adult/£5.50 Concessions, All ages
FRI 12 DEC 25 - SUN 4 JAN 26 / MULTIPLE TIMES
This December, our Winter light trail Stockwood Illuminated returns and its bigger and better! With a route that has doubled in length, you can discover Stockwood like you've never seen it before as you weave your way on a self-guided tour through the galleries and gardens with something to see at every turn. 2025 sees the addition of a new and improved food & drink offer alongside some Christmas concession stands where you can do your festive shopping. A winter experience for all to get you in the mood for the holiday season. Book in advance to avoid disappointment.
NEWFOR2025
Santa at STOCKWOOD
“Santa was really funny”* “Quality Festive Experience”*
“Got us right in the mood for the holiday season”*
FRI 12 - WED 24 DEC / SLOTS AVAILABLE FROM 9.30AM - 5PM
Stockwood Discovery Centre
Adult & Child from £25.30, All ages
Join Santa’s whimsical elves in his workshop where all the magic happens and create your very own festive keepsake to treasure. Don’t forget to mix up some special reindeer food to sprinkle on Christmas Eve for Rudolph and his friends whilst you’re there. Before you see Santa in an exclusive slot for your family, be sure to write your Christmas wish to share with him and we are sure he’ll have a little something for you too.
*Customer feedback from Santa at Wardown 2024
THE THREE BEARS
SAT 6 - WED 24 DEC 2025 / VARIOUS TIMES
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£12.50, 3+ and their families
"A hilarious fairy tale remix!"
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.
From the company that brought you Peter Pan & Me and Kings Polar Bear.
LATE NIGHT MUSIC PROGRAMME
CHEEBA CHEEBA
SAT 5 JUL / SAT 13 SEP / SAT 15 NOV / 8PM - MIDNIGHT
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£11, 18+
DJ Erbalist presents... Cheeba Cheeba. The coolest counterculture soundtrack. DJ Erbalist and special guests playing quality vinyls. Reggae, Latin, Soul, Rhythms & Blues, Afrobeats, Northern Soul, Ska, Tamla, Boogaloo, Rocksteady, Breaks, Mash Ups, Cool Jazz, Soundtracks, Blues and Funk.
INSPIRATION
SAT 19 JUL / SAT 4 OCT / 9PM - 3AM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£15, 18+
Joining our resident main players stumpi and Carmelo, one of our favourite DJs, the fantastic lady roulette, and our brilliant headliner guest - MR KJ - (SOULFUSION).
BOUTIQUE SOUL
EVERY 2ND FRIDAY OF THE MONTH (FROM SEP - DEC)
8PM - 1AM
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.
HALLOWEEN CLUBNIGHT
SAT 25 OCT / 9PM - 1AM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£4, 18+
Join us in collaboration with Pride in Luton for an evening of ghost busting bangers and spooky tunes til late as we get the chills flowing in time for Halloween. Dance the night away in The Fabulous Hatter, an inclusive space where everyone is welcome. The tunes will be going right through until 1am.
TIMESCALE PRODUCTIONS & EVENTS
PRIDE IN LUTON
LUTON URBAN RADIO CLUBNIGHT / DJ
LGBTIQ+ REGULAR PROGRAMME
TRANS ADMIN GROUP
EVERY 1ST TUESDAY 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.
PRIDE IN LUTON
QUEER AND CRAFTY GROUP
EVERY 4TH TUESDAY 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!
LGBTIQ+ PARENTING SUPPORT GROUP
EVERY 2ND WEDNESDAY 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.
LGBTIQ+ SOCIALS
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.
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 handmade crafts, food and drinks, there's something for everyone.
BASEMENT LIVE/S
SAT 18 OCT / SAT 6 DEC / 7.45PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£5, Strictly 16+. Under 18s must be wristbanded. ID required. Join us for live music gigs in the Hat Factory. Presented by Luton Live/s.
COMEDY BAR
EVERY 3RD FRI OF THE MONTH / 7.30PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
£6, 16+
Gather your freinds for an evening in our Basement Bar with compere Jake Pickford. This season features may o comedy's rising star's including one of the hottest talents on the comedy circuit, Lateef Lovejoy. Check our website for future line ups.
JAKE PICKFORD & THE CULTURE TRUST
LUTON LIVE/S MUSIC
CLUB NIGHT
BLACK BOX BOYS
REGULAR PROGRAMME
FRI 30 JAN 2026
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.
“They sowed the seeds for the UK’s love affair with Jamaican music.”
Don Letts - DJ, Filmmaker & Musician
“Beautifully Raw” Cherron Inko-Tarriah MBE - Black History Month Magazine ages.”
‘Hard Truths’ reunites Marianne Jean-Baptiste and Michele Austin, who both give exemplary performances, with Director Mike Leigh, for the first time since 1996’s ‘Secret and Lies.’
30 JAN: TBC
MUSIC IN THE MUSEUM
SUN 21 SEP / 2PM - 4PM
Wardown House, Museum & Gallery
£15, 12+
ZerOclassikal & Sinfonia Verdi present a season of South Asian classical ragas and classical western performances.
ZEROCLASSIKAL &SINFONIA VERDI
SUN 21 SEP
Pete Yelding (sitar), Aparna Raguraman (violin) and Janan Sathiendran (tabla).
SUN 19 OCT
Claire Wickes (Flute) and Tomo Xerri (Harp).
SUN 16 NOV
Diksha Murli (vocals) and Jonathan Mayer (sitar) with tabla accompaniment.
SUN 14 DEC
Intesa Duo - A Celebration of Christmas with Viols and Voice.
LUTON MATTERS PROGRAMME
THE ART OF SOUTH – ART AFTER DARK
SAT 19 JUL / 2PM - 4PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
Free, 16+
A fun, hands-on UV workshop where participants create glowing artworks using neon materials inspired by South Asian cultural motifs. These reimagined designs will be laser-cut and featured in a dedicated public community installation, showcasing work from both Luton and Houston, USA as part of the final Borderlight exhibition.
HAVE A GO: WOODBLOCK PRINTING
SAT 16 AUG / 3PM - 5PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
Free, 6+
Bring your child to join Factory Associate Ragavee Balendran in this delightful wood block printing workshop. Each child will create their own beautiful handmade scarves. They'll experiment with colour and pattern, all while developing a deeper appreciation for traditional craftsmanship.
BORDER LIGHT: WHERE CULTURES
MEET &
RADIATE
LAUNCHES
SAT 16 AUG
Hat Factory Arts Centre
Free
A community-led South Asian installation that celebrates tradition, heritage, and identity through a contemporary lens. Using fluorescent and glow-in-the-dark acrylics inspired by cultural motifs, the piece is co-created through workshops that celebrate local voices and stories. Bridging generations and geographies, the installation also connects with the South Asian diaspora in Houston, USA, where parallel workshops encourage shared creativity and cross-cultural dialogue.
IMOLIA COLLECTIVE
RAGAVEE BALENDRAN
CREATIVE INDUSTRY NETWORK
A hub for Luton’s creative entrepreneurs, based in the heart of the Hat District. From networking events to inspiring talks, flexible workspaces, and creative support, the Creative Industry Network is here to help local talent thrive.
CREATIVE INDUSTRY NETWORK MONTHLY EVENTS
2ND WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH / 7PM - 9PM
Hat Factory Arts Centre
Free Entry, 18+
It’s been over a year of networking, connection, collaboration and support - with dozens of local creatives featured and involved along the way. And we are not resting on our laurels.
As we move through year two, we are introducing new elements like Skill Swap alongside guest speakers, practical sessions and peer exchange. Ideal for freelancers, start-ups, and both emerging and established creative businesses in Luton.
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.
CREATIVE DROP-INS
THURSDAYS IN JULY AND AUGUST TBC / 12 - 1PM
Hat Works & On-line, Free Entry, 18+
Our regular Creative Drop-Ins are the perfect way to connect with Luton’s creative community. Meet other creatives, share ideas, and get advice in a relaxed setting. Special guests from local organizations and industry professionals will join select sessions to provide insights into funding, collaborations, and working in the creative industry.
Visit www.hatdistrict.co.uk for upcoming dates
ELSEWHERE IN THE HAT DISTRICT
One of Luton’s oldest hat factories has been transformed into a modern, flexible workspace for creative entrepreneurs. Located in the stunning Grade II listed building at 47 Guildford Street, Hat Works offers affordable pay-as-you-go workspaces and a vibrant community for emerging creatives.
Membership Options: Starting from £7.50/day or £99/month
Membership Benefits:
• Access to coworking spaces, and inspiring communal facilities.
• Use of reception and meeting rooms.
• Super-fast broadband and reliable tech support.
• Free networking events and priority booking for creative industry activities.
• Access to discounts and exclusive commissions
• Opportunities to sell, exhibit, or promote your ideas or scan the QR code
Free temporary access to spaces at Hat Works, Luton for creatives, heritage practitioners and cultural not-for-profits.
The Culture Trust Luton is offering free temporary access to spaces at Hat Works, Luton for creatives, heritage practitioners and cultural not-for-profits to support skills development and cultural practice and to widen community engagement with culture. This will be free of charge during venue opening hours and subject to selection
Find out more https://hatdistrict.co.uk/ Now open Wed-Fri
CREATIVE SPACE FOR HIRE
MAKER SPACE
Something new is taking shape in the Hat District…
We’re getting ready to launch a dedicated Maker Space equipped for creative production - whether you’re making, marketing or telling your story.
• Sewing machines for craft and garment work
• Flexible photo/video/audio set-up for short-form content
• Photography kit
• All available to use at affordable rates, right in the heart of Luton
CREATIVE SPACE FOR HIRE
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
NGYT Studio
In collaboration with our resident theatre and dance company Next Generation Youth Theatre we are delighted to present, The NGYT Studio.
A space for: Performance-based arts practitioners Rehearsal & Development Script Work Workshops And so much more…
If you would like further information on how to book this space please contact our Head of Public Programmes, Rachael Donlan on rachael.donlan@cuturetrust.com
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 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.
