THEATRE – Dear Evan Hansen

Being labelled “the new Hamilton” can be a blessing and a curse. Great PR, but also sizeable pressure. As a show, Dear Evan Hansen couldn’t be further away from the record-breaking historical epic. It has a message we can all get behind: the ills of social media, our need for approval and acceptance and how we all fit into the wider world. Noël Coward Theatre

COMMUNITY – ClitMass

The name of this event might cause you to clutch your pearls, but it’s pure fun as change makers, creatives, facilitators, entrepreneurs and anyone up for a giggle get together. The brainchild of Morning Gloryville founder, there will be DJs, live music, poetry, alcohol-free tipples and the chance to meet like-minded folk. Ninety One Living Room, 12 December from 6.30pm

COMEDY – Nine Lessons and Carols For Curious People

Robin Ince and pals return for another run of shows. We feel we’d be on the wrong end of Robin’s ire if we described this as “atheist comedy” as there’s more to it than that. The line-ups can also be hilarious: we’ve previously seen Ricky Gervais, Tim Minchin and Stewart Lee on the same bill. Kings Place, 12, 13, 19 and 21 December

CINEMA – Le Mans 66

Our podcast episode with star Caitriona Balfe went cray-cray so we implore you to listen to this great actor. If you want a non-festive film, they don’t get much better than director James Mangold’s latest, which pits Christian Bale and Matt Damon against Ferrari at the famous 24-hour endurance race. Based on a true story, the less you know the better about this majestic film. In cinemas now

WALK – The Alternative London Christmas Lights

See another side of London with this perambulation that takes in some of the capital’s less-obvious illuminations (and the obvious ones, too). Take in majestic Mayfair, once-seedy Soho, enjoy a mulled wine (included with the ticket) all the while hearing epics tales of Christmas pasts and be bathed in lumescent magic. £22.15, 10 December, eventbrite.co.uk

SING – Yule Rock

Enjoy a seasonal singalong out of church? Sanderson Jones and secular congregation Sunday Assembly belt out festive favourites at an event specifically designed to give you the Christmas feeling (minus the Christ bit). Conway Hall, 19 December