Tchaikovsky Symphony Orchestra

The first international Orchestra to visit Watford Colosseum for many years is one of Russia’s finest, the Tchaikovsky Symphony Orchestra. Famed for their outstanding string sound and Tchaikovsky interpretations, the concert opens with Vaughan Williams’ serene and beautiful Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis. This will be followed by one of England’s most distinguished violinists, Jennifer Pike, performing Sibelius’ virtuosic and dramatic Violin Concerto. The evening concludes with Tchaikovsky’s elemental 5th Symphony – a particular treat that no music lover should miss.

Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, Tuesday, October 18, 7.30pm. Details: 02036 598914

Ministry of Science

From the creative team behind Brainiac Live, this new production takes an anarchic approach to science communication whilst looking at the inventors and engineers who have shaped and inspired the modern world. From Liquid Nitrogen frozen flowers to Hydrogen Bottle Rockets. From Buzz Aldrin to Virgin Galactic. From a cat food tin to the Hovercraft. Join the super talented presenters and the voiceover from above (X Factor’s Peter Dickson) as they take you on a journey using brilliantly designed demonstrations with a few loud bangs to lead the way. Fingers in ears advised…

The Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans, Tuesday, October 18, 6.30pm. Details: 01727 844488

The Fitzwilliam String Quartet

This quartet performs a wide repertoire, often on period instruments. Formed in Cambridge in the 60s, they developed an international reputation for the works of Shostakovich. This evening they include pieces by Purcell, Mozart and Beethoven.

The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, Tuesday, October 18, 8pm. Details: 01923859291

Jonathan Pie Live

He is a respected news reporter for a respected news broadcaster, but he has a problem. He has several problems. He hates his job. He hates his colleagues. But mainly he hates the news. Join him for this live show where he hilariously reveals the truth behind recent news events both home and abroad. He'll also be discussing his own meteoric rise to mediocrity... and one imagines he'll venting his spleen in the process.

The Old Town Hall, High Street, Old Town, Hemel Hempstead, Wednesday, October 19, 8pm. Details: 01442 228091

George Huxley’s Southern Band

Well known for many years as a fine clarinettist, soprano and alto saxaphonist, George is much in demand in the UK, Europe and the USA. His soaring soprano evokes memories of the legendary Sidney Bechet with whom he has often been compared. Their style is classic jazz of the 20s and 30s paying tribute to Louis Armstrong, Jelly Rol Morton and other greats of that era.

Pump House Theatre, 5 Local Board Road, Watford, Thursday, October 20, 20.15pm. Details: 01923 241362

Josh Widdecombe

That guy from the TV comedy shows with the curly hair, is back on the road with a brand new tour. Since he’s been away from stand up Josh has been working hard on other things but don’t worry; in his spare time he has found a lot of minor things to get annoyed about, and now he has a chance to talk about them on stage (in the form of jokes). If you have seen him before live or on TV and enjoyed yourself then this is the show for you. If you didn’t like him then it probably isn’t.

The Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans, Thursday, October 20, 8pm. Details: 01727 844488

Nana’s Naughty Knickers

Bridget and her grandmother are about to become roommates. However, what Bridget saw as a unique opportunity to stay with her favourite Nana in New York for the summer quickly turns into an experience she’ll never forget. It seems her sweet grandma is running an illegal boutique from her apartment, selling hand-made naughty knickers to every senior citizen in the five borough area!

Henderson Hall, High Street, Abbots Langley, Thursday, October 20, to Saturday, October 22, 7.45pm. Details: 01923 227392