pick of the day

THE READING

Pat Barker and Jane Rogers

A great opportunity to score points by having opinions about two of the hot contenders for this year's Booker prize ahead of the announcement of the shortlist on the 28 September.

Waterstone's, Manchester 7pm (0161-832 1992)

THE PLAY

Dead Funny

Playwright Terry Johnson is on something of a roll with the revival of Insignificance, Hysteria coming back in November and now the return of this recent hit, with a smart new cast including the under-rated Ian Bartholomew.

Savoy Theatre, London WC2 7pm (0171-836 8888)

THE FILM

Bullets over Broadway

Woody Allen's gorgeously coloured story of 1920s theatrical lunacy and the manipulations of the mob has dialogue to die for and a flawless cast headed by Dianne Wiesst, who won an Oscar. And about time, too.

Prince Charles, Leicester Sq, London W1 4.15pm (0171-437 8181)