A day to remember

The event, marked as an official holiday in many parts of the world including Russia and China, recognises and celebrates the struggle for women's equal rights and opportunities.

On Sunday March 7, Cumbernauld Theatre and the Studio Arts Forum are celebrating International Women's Day (IWD) from 9.30am to 4pm.

The theatre will be hosting various recreational and interactive workshops, activities and entertainment with stalls featuring information on the celebration, exhibitions, book / CD stalls, raffles plus a free buffet lunch.

A spokesperson for the International Women's Day at the Theatre says: "We held this event last year and it was extremely successful. It gives everyone a taster in lots of different activities in which helps to inspire and celebrate women worldwide and from all generations.

"Men are welcome too, so don't be shy after all they couldn't live without the important ladies in their lives, so why not take part in the Djembe Drumming, Tai Chi or tuck into the free buffet. It's all about having some fun but register soon to guarantee your place."

The Studio Arts Forum have organised a whole range of interesting workshops and guests:

Tai Chi – experience the holistic approach to this gentle but highly beneficial art.

Valuing the female vote – Linda McDowall talks about women and the power of votes in this interactive discussion.

His-Story - Why does mental start with men? Stu Who tells us.

Djembe Drumming – express all the stresses and strains of life through the African Drums.

Sheroes - Local Artist (and writer of Cumbernauld Theatre's Community play 2010) Brian Miller, takes a look at some amazing women through the times.

Hands on art – a taster to draw and paint with Sara McIlraith.

Drama – get involved with some basic and enjoyable workshop activities.

Singing/Voice workshop – no need to read music - some warm ups, fun and simple songs.

Writers - Jenny Laurie from Strathclyde University presents an excellent and interesting session.

Registration forms for the workshops are available from Cumbernauld Theatre. As places are limited, allocation to the workshops will be made on a first come first served basis.

There's also work themed IWD photo competition with a pictorial exhibition. Bring along a picture of yourself, friend or family member busy at work – there's a prize for the best photo.

An Exhibition of Art by an International Group of Women Artists will be held in the Theatre Bar from Friday March 5 to Friday March 12. Artists invite anyone who wishes to attend the opening from 6.30pm on March 5 in the Cumbernauld Theatre Bar.

Reserve your place now to guarantee a place in the workshops on Cumbernauld Theatre Box Office 01236 732887.

LOCAL women's group Time for Us is organising an event to celebrate International Women's Day.

Taking place at the Muirfield Centre, this free event, sponsored by North Lanarkshire Council and the Women's Fund for Scotland, will feature various activities, workshops and therapies to try.

The therapies available include hair, make-up and nails, henna tattoos and threading, Indian head massage, and reflexology and massage.

Workshops will be held in half hour sessions, and include cooking, Zumba (a combination of dance and aerobics) and card-making.

A free crche will be available for under fives, while older children can take part in other activities and workshops.

Additionally, stalls will be set up by other groups including Women's Watershed, Bookstart, Home Safety, Community Mums and Speakeasy.

Tea, coffee and home baking is also free.

As crche places are limited, it is advisable to book ahead by calling 01236 638394. Places for the massage therapy are also limited and should be booked in advance. All other kids and adults workshops can be booked on the day.

The event is on Saturday March 6, from 1 to 4pm.