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Student Guide to Liverpool

But what does 'essential' Liverpool mean to you? Some of you may argue it's a toss between ten pints of lager in Concert Square and a dirty lamb kebab on your stumble home? Or could it be a spot of theatre 'darling'? A festival maybe? Or even an eyeful of modern art? Oh come on guys, after all - there's more to being a student than drinking beer you know! Whether you like it or not Liverpool is the cultural capital of Europe this year so I suggest your springtime essentials should contain at least one element of culture but combine it with some student essentials, that is - cheap 'n' cheerful and blend together with some alcoholic refreshment and that way we surely can't go wrong!

For the thespians amongst you, how about a civilised evening at the theatre - I love it! If it's not your usual pastime, humour your way through Samuel Beckett's darkly comic 'Endgame' at the Everyman starring Matthew Kelly or if Shakespeare's more apt to your education, 'Romeo & Juliet' is at the Playhouse. This classic, romantic tragedy is one of the plays that inspired me to perform so I shall definitely be heading down to preview this Northern Broadsides production. I advise you to ask at the box office for student discounts as there are some great offers available.

Liverpool musicians have influenced musical trends all over the world and this spring, the world's music comes to us. Africa Oye is here on June 21st-22nd. This is the largest African music festival in the UK and it's free! Set in the beautiful Sefton Park, seconds from a bustling Lark Lane, the scene will be alive with this unique, colourful, music and will be surrounded by stalls selling African produce. Or if you feel like parting with some cash and love to rock - Knowsley Hall Music Festival kicks off the same weekend. So with festivals such as these on your doorstep, you'll be sure not to miss out on the beer drinking opportunities!

If so far you're thinking, "Mmm, I'm still parting with cash I don't quite have" - you really don't have any excuse with my next proposal (especially if you didn't take my advice over Easter!). Tate Liverpool is celebrating its 20th Birthday Anniversary (3rd-5th May) and this excursion is sure to make your mum and dad proud! Go on - it's art, its culture and it's free! Have a pint before you go if you must - The Pumphouse on the Albert Dock is a great nearby option (oops - you've tempted me now!)

Why not tie all the culture in together with Liverpool Streets Ahead Weekend (May 24th-26th), combining all elements of the arts presented on the cities streets and you can save your cash for a night of party culture to help you through your long, difficult term. Check out Garlands for some hedonistic fun, The Magnet on Hardman Street for American movie star glam (Saturdays only) or for a more effortless night head to Modo in Concert Square and barbecue's frequent here in the warmer months so there's no need to suffer without. For your added pleasure (and mine), the Fratelli's play live at the Carling Academy on April 29th (tickets start at £15).

These are just a small sample of the essentials this city has to offer but I promise you, with so many options and even if the sun don't shine, those April showers won't stop your days from blossoming.

Written by Actress Helen Noble - March 08