Our pick of things to do to help you make the most out of your weekend...

Frank Holder and his Band

Frank is one of very few musicians still alive to have played on the London jazz scene in the 1940s. His vocals and conga rhythms are as fresh today as when he played with the bands of Leslie Hutchinson, John Dankworth and Ronnie Scott.

Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT, Friday, March 24, 2.30pm. Details: 01708 443333

East London and West Essex Guardian Series:

Young Poets’ Showcase

Over the last six months poets and mentors have crafted a portfolio of work demonstrating the range of talent nurtured in the programme. The showcase gives the poets the opportunity to perform their work live.

Barbican, Silk Street, EC2Y 8DS, Friday, March 24, 7pm. Details: barbican.org.uk

Darkness Falls

Tried, convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment, John finds himself breaking rocks alongside killers and thieves - but John has a secret that will change everything. Darkness Falls is the remarkable re-imagining of the gospel of John. Moving, poetic and fantastical, the play mixes vivid storytelling with live music to bring you a timeless story as you’ve never seen it before.

Redbridge Drama Centre, Churchfields, South Woodford, E18 2RB, Friday, March 24, 7.30pm. Details: 020 8708 8800

Some Guys Have All The Luck

Fans will be treated to a musical show celebrating the career of one of rock’s greatest icons, Sir Rod Stewart. Paul Metcalfe delivers an authentic and charismatic performance assuming the persona of this legendary singer-songwriter and performer right down to the last detail.

Millfield Theatre, Silver Street, Edmonton, N18 1PJ, Friday, March 24, 7.45pm. Details: 020 8807 6680

Bulgarian Folk & Traditions

The festival promotes Bulgarian folklore, assembling singing and dancing groups from all over the world to showcase the beauty of Bulgarian folk dances and songs.

Millfield Theatre, Silver Street, Edmonton, N18 1PJ, Saturday, March 25. Details: 020 8807 6680

Goldilocks and the Three Bears

Northern Ballet’s Short Ballets for Small People is back brings this classic children’s story to life; the perfect opportunity for your little ones to enjoy ballet for the first time.

Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS, Saturday, March 25, 2pm and 4pm. Details: 01279 431945

East London and West Essex Guardian Series:

Afternoon Tea

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a delicious afternoon tea while watching the white water action out on the rapids.

Lee Valley White Water Centre, Station Road, Waltham Cross, EN9 1AB, Sunday, March 26. Details: 03000 030 616

Songs and Laughter with my Mother

Janet Kay and Victor Romero Evans present their annual Mother’s Day show. Come and enjoy an evening of top quality entertainment with the UK’s kings and queens of comedy and song.

Millfield Theatre, Silver Street, Edmonton, N18 1PJ, Sunday, March 26, 7pm. Details: 020 8807 6680

Mums go free at Lee Valley Park Farms

Lee Valley Park Farms are offering all mums free entry on 26 March. Here mothers and children can learn about the farm animals, explore outdoor activities and enjoy a break in the café.

Lee Valley Park Farms, Stubbins Hall Lane, Waltham Abbey, EN9 2EF, Sunday, March 26. Details: 01992 892 781

Olympic Experience

Thrill-seeking mums can have an Olympic experience. Why not treat her to a day at the VeloPark, one of the most exciting cycling venues in the world?

Lee Valley VeloPark, Abercrombie Road, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, E20 3AB, Sunday, March 26. Details: visitleevalley.org.uk/velopark