Open Door: Bold Text Collective at the Rep
Open door gives local play-writing groups the opportunity to perform their work in front of an audience at the Rep. The Bold Text Collective comprise eight local playwrights seeking to increase their exposure and profile. In their show Insatiable they will be exploring the politics of consumption and why we all feel the need to consume more than we need, especially at this time of year. In a brilliant move, after the show the performers will be hosting an unwanted Christmas present swap, bring along those hideous gifts and make someone else’s day, any presents left unclaimed will go to charity.
Mon 9 Jan 8pm at the Rep, Broad St, Birmingham B1 2EP www.birmingham-rep.co.uk/

Three Step Manoeuvre live at Cogs
Birmingham’s own Three Step Manoeuvre have been honing their fine organ driven soul sound for three years now and if you haven’t already caught them live you’ve been missing a real groovy treat. Their funky rhythms recall legends like Mr Hobo Flats himself Jimmy Smith, James Brown and The Meters. The Harry Weir Quintet provide support and expect a mighty jam late on.
Thu 12 Jan at Cogs 61 Newhall Street, Birmingham, B3 3RB www.facebook.com/

P Cafe’s Film Night: Take 1
The first event in what the P Cafe hope will be a series showcasing the most interesting short films produced by local film makers. All levels of experience are welcome and there is no restriction on genre, style and content. Amongst the artists exhibiting films are Brendan O Neill, Stirchley Baths and Vafa Motamedi. Three hours of compelling short films with great company for nothing. Sounds like a good deal to us. See you there.
Fri 13 Jan 6pm at P Cafe, 1464 Pershore Road, Stirchley B30 2NT www.facebook.com

Blues Club with The Grey Goose Band at Hare And Hounds
Any blues band praised by the legendary Groundhogs guitarist Tony McPhee has got to be worth a listen and when it’s free courtesy of the Hare and Hounds well, what are you waiting for? Mixing classic blues with original songs their live shows are an eclectic blend of old and new drawing on a raft of influences from the UK blues scene of the 60’s and 70’s right through to Northern Soul and New Wave. DJ’s Dylan Gibbons & Dave Le Moderne will be spinning the usual eclectic sounds to keep the cool vibes going.
Sat 14 Jan 4pm at Hare and Hounds, High Street, Kings Heath B14 7LG hareandhoundskingsheath

Come Vinyl With Me at Fletchers Bar
Vinyl heads-up and eyes down to hang the regular DJs and DIY with your own stash. Bring along your own vinyl, no restrictions but just ten minutes to spin your own selection.
Sun 15 Jan 5pm at Fletchers, 7A York Road, Kings Heath, B14 7SA www.fletchersbarandeatery.co.uk