1 FURNESS Tradition presents Nick Hennessey A Harper’s Trade on Wednesday, December 12 (8pm) at Ulverston's Coronation Hall (8pm). Nick is an internationally acclaimed storyteller, playwright, folk singer, songwriter and musician. Drawing deeply from the wellspring of traditional sources, this performance of song and story reinterprets the material for a modern 21st Century, with powerful and evocative language and an innovative style of harp playing. During the last 18 years Nick has been developing a vibrant and exciting style of performance which harpers of old would recognise.

2 MUSIC, dance and song is the name of the game in a fresh adaptation of Beauty and the Beast, this year's festival fable staged at Keswick's Theatre by the Lake. The timeless tale is brought to glorious life in Laurence Boswell’s thrilling and inventive version running until January 12. It promises a true feast for the imagination this Christmas, when Beauty’s father hears that his long-lost ship packed with pearls has landed safely in harbour, his family’s dreams come true.

3 COME Friday, December 14 (8pm), and two talented professional singer songwriters take to the Beggar's Theatre at Millom stage with their A Celebration of Simon and Garfunkel show. Tim Chu and Ian Bailey grew up listening to Simon and Garfunkel tunes with both the composition and vocal blend having a strong influence on their respective professional careers. After years of individual touring schedules both Tim and Ian have now found the time to concentrate on delivering the music of Simon and Garfunkel in their own unique way that also honours the original recordings. Box office on 01229-775677.

4 JAZZ giant Courtney Pine stops off with soul man Omar at Kendal's Brewery Arts Centre tonight (Tuesday) on their Black Notes from the Deep tour. The ground-breaking, multi-instrumentalist has led a generation of exciting and innovative players who have broadened their styles to take jazz out to a wider audience. Courtney shares the spotlight with the vocal talents of Omar, whose 1992 hit single There’s Nothing Like This earned him widespread acclaim. Box office 01539-725133.

5 ULVERSTON Choral Society will be in fine festive mood for its Christmas concert at the town's St Marys Parish Church, on Friday, December 14 (7.30pm). Under the deft direction of Jolyon Dodgson, the programme includes Haydn's joyous St Nicholas Mass together with Christmas music by Jonathan Millican, Britten and Rachmaninov. Plus, of course, carols. Tickets at the door or from Pam Gillman on 01229-716321.