Dance en Francais
The Institute Francais brings Smadj to Qatar. With his SOS tour, he brings his mix of traditional oud and dub/trip hop beats. A blend of electronic, jazz and oriental music, it leaps from Europe to the Middle East and Africa and back again. Show starts at 8pm. Tickets are QR120, available at Virgin Megastores and Institut Francais.
Fri 10, Qatar National Theatre. www.institutfrancais-qatar.com

Celebrate Carnival
Crystal Club brings DJ Greg plus world renowned percussionist Hush! to help you get in the party mood. With flashy colours, awesome beats and more than a few wiggly dance moves, Carnival might just be our new favourite time of year.
Fri 10, Crystal Club, W Doha. Doors open 11pm-2.30am. Call 4453 5125

Head to Oz
Guest Celebrity Chef Mike Taff cooks up some Australian favourites, live on stage while you nosh. It starts with a brunch on Feb 10 and ends with a Steak Night on Feb 14 (an excellent option for a bro-date, should you find yourself alone on Valentine’s Day).
Fri 10, 14, Choices, Oryx Rotana. Call 4402 3333

Get the giggles
The Laughter Factory returns, bringing three of the best stand-up comedians straight from The Comedy Store in London for your heckling pleasure. The two-hour show starts at 8pm, QR120 per person including one drink.
Mon 13-14, Shehrazad, Ramada Plaza. Call 4428 1555

See James Blunt
The British crooner arrives on Doha’s sands to whisper sweet nothings into our collective ears. He hits the beach from 8pm-midnight. Tickets are QR250 for general admission or QR500 for Fan Pit (VIP), available at Virgin Megastores, www.virginmegastore.me and the InterContinental Hotel Lobby.
Tues 14, InterContinental Beach. Call 4484 4444