Find out what’s on in South Wales this week

Tricot is a perfect band to begin expanding your musical knowledge. A math rock band from Kyoto, Japan, the all-female band has already released two albums, providing an alternative experience to the usual chart music. (Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff, Tue 5^th, 7:30pm. Tickets: £8)

In its final week of exhibition, head down to the Redhouse in Merthyr Tydfil to catch Chris Aylward’s ‘The Forgotten Valleys’ installation. A reminiscent vision of a ‘Forgotten’ Wales, the exhibition will provide an eye opening experience to the legacy of the coal industry. (Redhouse, Merthyr Tydfil, until Tue 5^th, 8:30am. Tickets: free)

Everyone knows the story of the defiant Jane Eyre. Surviving as an orphan, through poverty and injustice, the heroine has resonated for over 100 years. After a number of renditions and adaptations, National Theatre managed to receive plaudits for its innovative take on the classic. Following the play’s success, Memo Arts Centre is screening an encore of the live broadcast this Thursday to relive the unique production and Jane’s strive for freedom. (Memo Arts Centre, Barry, Thurs 7^th, 7:00pm. Tickets: £13.00)

Direct from the streets of Cardiff, Whitehall Parade arrives at The Globe for their first live event. Writing all their own music, the eight piece rock band is looking to make their mark on Cardiff’s eclectic music scene, so why not give them support this Friday night. (The Globe, Cardiff, Fri 8^th, 7:30pm. Tickets: £6.60)

With Ronnie O’Sullivan and Jimmy White gracing the green clothed table in the St David’s Hall this weekend, the titular Snooker Legends seems justified in this one night exhibition of the sporting greats. Opposing the English duo is Welsh tag team Mark “The Welsh Potting Machine” Williams and Matthew “The Welsh Wonder” Stevens, promising a masterclass in the art of snooker. (St David’s Hall, Cardiff, Fri 8^th, 7pm. Tickets: £15-£40)

Need a laugh to wipe away those Christmas blues? Comedy Night at Pontyclun Rugby & Sports Club has the perfect remedy with the stand-up talent Adam Kay. With sell-out tours and recurrently featuring in the iTunes top ten for comedy since 2008, you know you’re in for a treat. Reimaging pop and rock songs with darkly humorous twists, Kay’s humour is infectious and unique. (Pontyclun Rugby & Sports Club, Pontyclun, Fri 8^th, 8pm. Tickets: £11)

Showaddywaddy – not just a mouthful to say, they are also the successful 70s pop group responsible for the number one “Under The Moon Of Love”. Reimagining and revitalising songs from the 50s and 60s, they have recently celebrated their 40^th anniversary as ‘The Greatest Rock & Roll Band in the World’, so you know their gig is not to be missed. (Congress Theatre, Cwmbran, Sat 9^th, 7:30pm. Tickets: £20)

Want to take the pub crawl to the next level? How about walking along a 10, 15 or 25 mile trail of the Romans with free ales at every checkpoint? Utilising ancient tradition, exercise and beer, the Saturnalia Real Ale Ramble is a unique day out, capable of not only widening your experiences, but your ale catalogue too. (Llanwrtyd Wells, Powys, Sat 9^th, 9:00am. Tickets: One Day £10, Two Days £15)

Also closing this weekend is the ‘The Secret Workings of Nature’ in the National Library of Wales. Providing an insight into the work of Robert Hooke and his Micrographia, the exhibition focuses on the revolutionary use of the microscope and the early objects viewed through the microcosmic lens. (National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth, until Sat 9^th, 9:30am. Tickets: free)

Having endured the cycle of Christmas songs throughout December, January is a time for you to discover new music. Playing live in The Globe, The Prince’s Trust Cymru Concert is a great way to do just that. Featuring contestants from The Voice, X Factor and even a West End performer, this diverse line up will certainly whet your appetite for musical talent. (The Globe, Cardiff, Sat 9^th, 7:30pm. Tickets: £7)

Part of the International Concert Series, Lothar Koenigs will be conducting pieces from both the beginning and end of Richard Strauss’s life, as well as work from Gustav Mahler. For an afternoon of intense, emotional listening, Welsh National Opera Orchestra can’t be missed. (St David’s Hall, Cardiff, Sun 10^th, 3pm. Tickets: Adults £7.50-£39.50, Children £5)

words CONOR KNIGHT

photo GLOBAL PANORAMA