THIS month in Great Missenden, there is a very special concert planned at the Parish Church. The famous American organist Carlo Curley presents a 'one-off' concert on Saturday, January 26 where this popular virtuoso will be playing works from Bach to Cesar Franck. Also there will be local youth choir, Kingshill & Co, so this is going to be an exceptional concert experience. Tickets are now available for £10, and those aged 16 and under are half-price. Organised by the Chiltern Music Society, doors open at 6.30pm for you to enjoy a glass of wine prior to the concert at 7.30pm.

For tickets telephone 01494 862767 or 01494 727721.

WOULD you like to be on the stage? You could have a chance to show your acting or singing talents with a brand new musical planned to take place in Great Missenden. It is a story set in 1914 about a housemaid called Lucy who is keen to be a music hall star and she is in love with the local bobby called Tom. Called Below Stairs, rehearsals are about to begin in the village so call 01494 564512 to see if you can become part of this new theatrical venture.

MORE musical fun is currently in rehearsal in Hyde Heath Village Hall in readiness for three performances of the famous Hollywood musical Cabaret. Presented by Hyde Heath Drama Group, this talented company look forward to seeing you next Thursday January 17, Friday 18 and Saturday, January 19 at 8pm.Tickets are £6 and concessions are available. The booking office number is 01494 776193.

IF you are thinking about planning a special local event to mark the Queen's Golden Jubilee this year, you can pick up a free 'Celebration Toolkit' from Missenden library. This gives lots of helpful advice and ideas on how to organise community celebrations in the Chiltern District. In fact, Chiltern District Council will be running seminars to provide advice and training for community groups and young people who have ideas but need help with planning and advertising. For more information telephone 01494 732759.

JANUARY is packed with different walks in the surrounding areas linked to the Red Kites in the Chilterns Project. If you would like to get out and about this month and see this magnificent hawk in the wild then contact Cathy Rose who is the Red Kites in the Chilterns Officer based in nearby Princes Risborough. Her telephone number is 01844 271306.

ROMAN games, architecture, and soldiers are just a few fascinating features of the new exhibition at the County Museum. You can find out more from 01296 331441.

GREAT Missenden Parish Council meets again in the Memorial Centre next Wednesday at 8pm. All local residents are invited to take part.

By David Kidd-Hewitt