Rewrite the script with a cultural trip abroad

With January traditionally being the most popular time of year to book holidays, why not rewrite the script and try something a bit different in 2009 by taking a cultural trip abroad to discover the underestimated world of the theatre.

With Leicester having just opened its brand new theatre, Curve is set to compete on the European stage with other theatres across Britain as well as setting an unrivalled standard. Designed by world renowned architect Rafael Vinoly, Curve is situated in the heart of Leicester’s new Cultural Quarter and features a 750 seat auditorium. Future showings include Simply Cinderella: A musical, Lord of the Flies and The Snow Queen. See curveonline.co.uk and oneleicester.com for more information.

But why stop there? The fun doesn’t have to end in Leicester so read on to find out more about destinations around the world that are guaranteed to suit every theatre lover’s needs.

Rome, Italy

Built between 1658 and 1666, the Sagrestia del Borromini is located in one of the most beautiful locations in Rome, the Piazza Navona. This is a perfect place to enjoy a classic Roman performance whilst spending time in the Italian capital. Rome is a city which boasts endless opportunities to enjoy what the Italians are renowned for….food and culture. The Gelaterias are plentiful and you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to freshly made pasta.

For a real treat head on over to Ciampini, a traditional Italian restaurant located on Via del Corso. This particular restaurant remains undiscovered by many tourists and is a local hotspot which serves food that won’t leave you disappointed. If you have time to squeeze in some cultural sightseeing during your trip then the Coliseum and Vatican museums are must sees.

Flights from London from £57 with easyJet, leaving on 18 March, returning on 25 March (found through Kayak.co.uk).

New York

The former New York State Theatre was renamed the David H. Koch Theater at the City’s Ballet Winter gala last November. Part of New York City's Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts it is home to both New York City Ballet and New York City Opera. The stunning theatre seats 2,755 and features continental style seating on the orchestra level, four main balconies and lobby areas which feature many examples of modern art.

If you’re in the big apple why not check out some of the must see sights including the statue of Liberty or for all those Sex and the City fans why not catch the tour and re-live some of the most famous fashion moments from the series, whilst enjoying some of New York’s hotspots at the same time. The Museum of Modern Art is also a great day out for modern and contemporary art lovers with a range of exhibitions coming up this year which are suitable for all audiences.

Flights from London from £229 with America Airlines, leaving on 12 February, returning on 16 February (found through Kayak.co.uk).

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

For a continental alternative, try the Royal Theatre Carré in Amsterdam which opened in 1887 and was primarily meant for circus performances. Situated on the River Amstel, this beautiful theatre regularly shows ballets and musicals whilst maintaining its reputation as the most famous in Holland. Between 1991 -1993 renovation of the building took place which changed Carré from a circus with a small theatre, to a large theatre with circus accommodation.

If you fancy exploring the city and learning more about its history further then shopping and eating in the many restaurants, or simply wandering around the city is a must. Cycling is the best and most popular way to get around and leaves you free to explore the numerous canals that run through the city. Museums not to be missed are the Anne Frank Museum and the Van Gogh Museum which boasts the largest collection in the world including a permanent display of 200 paintings, 500 drawings and 700 letters.

Flights from London from £60 with easyJet, leaving on 2 April, retuning on 8 April (found through Kayak.co.uk).

Sydney, Australia

The cultural world of the theatre wouldn’t be the same without international icon, Sydney Opera House which is situated against the stunning backdrop of Sydney Harbour. Whether it’s opera, ballet or theatre that you’re interested in, you’ll be spoilt for choice with over 1,500 performances being staged each year. Whilst down under why not check out what’s on offer at Bondi Beach or sample some world class seafood at any of the restaurants overlooking the water.

The Art Gallery of New South Wales is also highly recommended for any art lovers - the gallery was established in 1874 as a contemporary art gallery to showcase the work of local colonial artists. As this is such a popular long haul destination its best to book early this year for the best deals as consumers protect their well earned holiday, even in the current economic climate.

Flights from London from £608 with Etihad Airways, leaving on 21 February, returning on 14 March (found through Kayak.co.uk).

Basel, Switzerland

If you’d prefer a trip closer to home then why not consider Basel in Switzerland, a city of culture, boasting more than 30 museums and 150 art galleries. Not an obvious choice, but it has plenty to offer including the largest Swiss theatre to stage productions in three genres. The origins of Theater Basel go back to 1828, when the Society for the Municipal Theatre was founded.

Whilst in Basel there are plenty of landmarks and museums to visit including the Barfüsserkirche museum where you can view outstanding works of art which the city opened to the public in 1661, making it the very first civic museum open to the public. As a multilingual country, Switzerland captures German, French and Italian cuisine with cheese fondue - one of the country’s famous specialties. Walliser Kanne in Basel is one of many restaurants where you can order this appetizing choice of cuisine.

Flights from London from £50 with easyJet, leaving on 26 February, returning on 02 March (found through Kayak.co.uk).