April in London 2020

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4000 Miles

Photo credit Gabriel Goldberg

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4000 Miles
Bags: Inside Out
Zanele Muholi
David Attenborough: A Life On Our Planet
Jack Absolute Flies Again
balletLORENT, The Lost Happy Endings is at Sadler's Wells Family Weekend
Havering Hoard: A Bronze Age Mystery
Affordable Art Fair Hampstead
Northern Ballet: Geisha
Balance Festival
English National Ballet - Creature by Akram Khan
Joker - Live In Concert
Internationaal Theater Amsterdam: Death in Venice
Now Play This
RHS London Spring Launch and Orchid Show
Easter at IWM London
The Royal Opera: Tristan Und Isolde
The Gruffalo at Kew Gardens
Manor
The Doctor
Electronic: From Kraftwerk to The Chemical Brothers
My First Ballet: Cinderella
Record Store Day
Simple Minds
Rick Astley
Shankar 100
Tino Contreras is at La Linea
Chainska Brassika is at The London International Ska Festival
Sony World Photography Awards
Andre Rieu
Bryn Terfel headlines Love Classical 2020
Cocktails in the City
Backyard Cinema: Paradise City
St George's Day in Trafalgar Square
Underbelly Festival
Earth Day 2020 at Somerset House
 

 

Timothée Chalamet makes his UK stage debut in 4000 Miles, Michael Ball reprises his role as Edna Turnblad in Hairspray the Musical and Olivier Award-winning actors Nancy Carroll and Ben Daniels star in Moira Buffini's new play. These are just three of the top events taking place in London in April 2020.

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English National Ballet - Creature by Akram Khan

A contemporary dance piece exploring human overreaching and ambition.

Sadler's Wells Theatre, Rosebery Avenue, London, EC1R 4TN

Tube: Angel Station

 

Dates: 01st - 08th April 2020

 

Contemporary dance artist Akram Khan continues his collaboration with English National Ballet in 2020 with his new production, Creature. An exploration of human overreaching with monstrous undertones, the new show draws on themes of ambition, human endeavour and morality, taking inspiration from Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, the classical myth of Prometheus and Georg Buchner's expressionist classic Woyzeck. The show will be given its world premiere at Sadler's Wells this spring.

 
 
 

Electronic: From Kraftwerk to The Chemical Brothers

Throw yourself into the hypnotic world of electronic music.

Design Museum, 224-238 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6AG

Tube: High Street Kensington Station

 

Dates: 01st April - 26th July 2020

 

With strobe lighting and a soundtrack by Laurent Garnier, Electronic: From Kraftwerk to The Chemical Brothers at the Design Museum reproduces the feeling of a being in a club, allowing you to throw yourself into the hypnotic world of electronic music. Travel to the dance floors of Detroit and Chicago, Paris, Berlin and the UK through the exhibition which features the people, art, design, technology and photography that have been capturing and shaping the electronic music landscape. The work of pioneering German synthmeisters Kraftwerk is transmitted via a 3D experience, rave culture is pictured on a large scale through images by Andreas Gursky and iconic DJ masks remind you of the famous figures who've lauded over the clubbing scene.

 
 
 

The London Coffee Festival

The coffee-themed festival celebrates its 10th anniversary.

The Old Truman Brewery, 91 Brick Lane, London, E1 6QL

Tube: Aldgate East Station

 

Dates: 23rd - 26th July 2020

 

The four day London Coffee Festival returns for its 10th anniversary in 2020 with coffee, cocktails, music and art all linked to the theme of coffee. Across the Old Truman Brewery site over 250 artisan coffee and gourmet food stalls, tastings and demonstrations, interactive workshops, street food, coffee-based cocktails, live music, DJs and art exhibitions are staged, all centred on the caffeinated drink. Book in for Caravan Coffee Roasters' brand new masterclass CCR Coffee School, savour a slice of Hygge from Danish Bakery, plus pay a visit to home barista's favourite, the La Marzocco Kitchen. Competing for the Coffee Masters title are 16 contenders from across the globe including Lisa-Laura Verhoest from Climpson & Sons.

 
 
 

Roy's Art Fair

Buy works directly from the artists and enjoy live painting and creative workshops.

Bargehouse, Oxo Tower Wharf, Barge House Street, London, SE1 9PH

Tube: Temple Station

 

Dates: 03rd - 06th September 2020

 

Following on from the success of its previous fairs, Roy's Art Fair returns for its biggest ever event this April. Taking place at the Bargehouse on the South Bank, the fair provides the unique opportunity to buy works directly from the artists in a strictly relaxed non-gallery setting. The line-up includes both emerging and established artists that is sure to appeal to avid art collectors and first time buyers alike. There will also be live painting, creative workshops and interactive installations.

 
 
 

Cocktails In The City

25 of London's most exciting bars brought together under one roof in The Vaults of Waterloo.

The Vaults, 10 Leake Street, London, SE1 7NN

Tube: Waterloo Station , Lambeth North Station

 

Dates: 02nd - 04th April 2020

 

Gathering the world's finest barmen and mixologists, from the city's 5-star hotels to its hidden basement bars, Cocktails In The City brings together 25 of London's most exciting and exclusive bars. Taking place in The Vaults of Waterloo, the three-day boozy affair not only offers all manner of cocktails - from champagne cocktails, rum sours and espresso martinis to beer cocktails and slushies - but also has a special series of events including bar battles, tasting rooms and sensory cocktail adventures. Bars taking part include 68 & Boston, Nightjar, Laki Kane, Homeboy, Heads Tails, Nine Lives, Ella Canta and Bourne & Hollingsworth while food comes from a range of London street food vendors.

 
 
 
 

Havering Hoard: A Bronze Age Mystery

See weapons and tools from the largest ever Bronze Age hoard discovered in London.

Museum of London Docklands, No 1 Warehouse, West India Quay, London, E14 4AL

Tube: Canary Wharf Station

 

Dates: 03rd April - 25th October 2020

 

The largest ever Bronze Age hoard discovered in London, the third largest of its kind in the UK, goes on public display for the first time at the London Museum Docklands in 2020. An impressive collection of weapons and tools discovered in Rainham in 2018, the Havering Hoard is composed of 453 bronze objects which date to between 800 and 900 BC. Inspect unearthed axe heads, spearheads, fragments of swords, daggers and knives and deepen your understanding of Bronze Age life. The broken and damaged weapons raise questions about why these objects ended up being carefully buried in groups close together. Visit the exhibition and discover some of the theories being put forward about this significant, large scale deposit of bronze.

 
 
 

Tudors to Windsors: British Royal Portraits

Five royal dynasties are represented in this major exhibition.

National Maritime Museum, Park Row, London, SE10 9NF

Tube: New Cross Station (East London line closed. Bus service operates)

 

Dates: 03rd April - 31st August 2020

 

See the earliest known portrait of Henry VII and photographs of Queen Elizabeth II by Cecil Beaton, Andy Warhol and Annie Leibovitz at the National Maritime Museum's major new exhibition, Tudors to Windsors: British Royal Portraits. Through a display of more than 150 works, including paintings, sculptures and photographs, the exhibition explores the changing nature of the British monarchy. Five royal dynasties - Tudors, Stuarts, Georgians, Victorians and Windsors - are featured with kings, queens, heirs and consorts all represented.

 
 
 

Now Play This

The popular gaming festival returns with a showcase of innovative games.

Somerset House, Strand, London, WC2R 1LA

Tube: Temple Station

 

Dates: 03rd - 05th April 2020

 

A celebration of games and play, popular gaming festival Now Play This returns to Somerset House this April. Coinciding with the city-wide London Games Festival, the festival of play invites visitors to experience works from international multidisciplinary developers, artists and designers, all of whom are creating products that are pushing the boundaries of games and play. Developers taking part include The Grannies, who will take visitors on a journey through the beautiful landscapes of action adventure game Red Dead Redemption 2; Molleindustria, a radical games studio that challenges visitors to create a sustainable human habitat from the ruins of a fallen city in new game Lichenia; and Ip Yuk-Yiu, who present experimental video game To Call a Horse a Deer. Other highlights include a number of interactive arcades, immersive displays, workshops and performances.

 
 
 

Underbelly Festival

Over 70 fabulous fringe shows over five months, covering comedy, cabaret and families.

Underbelly Festival, Jubilee Gardens, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX

Tube: Waterloo Station , Embankment Underground Station

 

Dates: 03rd April - 27th September 2020

 

The unrivalled Underbelly Festival presents over 70 shows for five months of comedy, cabaret and children's shows. In a temporary theatre on the South Bank, between the Southbank Centre and London Eye - surrounded by street food and one of London's biggest outdoor bars - you'll find London's largest programme of affordable circus, cabaret and fringe theatre. This year's programme has yet to be announced but you can expect a month long residency by a headline act - last year, Gravity & Other Myths brought their stripped back circus show to the South Bank. Acts vary from debauched cabaret and drag extravaganzas to a live podcasts. There are shows for children with stage adaptations of favourite picture books like Elmer The Patchwork Elephant and The Gruffalo with a big Family Fest running throughout the Easter holidays.

 
 
 

Easter at IWM London

A crash spy course is just one of the family activities at IWM London this Easter.

IWM London (Imperial War Museums), Lambeth Road, Elephant and Castle, London, SE1 6HZ

Tube: Lambeth North Station

 

Dates: 04th - 19th April 2020

 

The IWM London invites families to enjoy a special line-up of events and activities throughout the Easter holiday, including the chance to become a spy for the day. Coinciding with the release of the latest Bond film, No Time to Die, Spies and Disguise challenges participants to embark in a crash course spy school inspired by real life spies from WWII. Secret missions include an assault course and immersive theatre activities. Other programme highlights include Story Seekers, a drop-in session during which families can learn about the impact of global conflict; We Were There, providing a special opportunity to meet war veterans and eyewitnesses of the Second World War, Cold War and Korean and Falklands Wars; and a Documentary Challenge, a hands-on activity in which visitors can make their very own documentary guided by filmmakers at SMASH TV.

 
 
 
 

The Gruffalo at Kew Gardens

Embark on a special journey meeting Fox, Owl, Snake and maybe even the Gruffalo along the way.

Kew Gardens (Royal Botanic Gardens), Kew, Richmond, London, TW9 3AB

Tube: Kew Gardens Station

 

Dates: 04th - 19th April 2020

 

Grab your map and paint on some whiskers this Easter ready for a Gruffalo hunt at Kew Gardens. Immersing little ones in the world of Julia Donaldson's much-loved characters, The Gruffalo at Kew Gardens plots a journey through the beautiful Arboretum - home to 14,000 trees - throughout which visitors will encounter Fox, Owl and Snake, joining in on interactive activities along the way and learning all about the different habitats as well as the marks that humans leave on woodland ecosystems. The most adventurous of visitors might even get the chance to meet the Gruffalo himself and there's a pop-up eatery serving a special Gruffalo-themed feast.

 
 
 

4000 Miles

Star of the big screen Timothee Chalamet makes his UK stage debut.

Old Vic Theatre, 103 The Cut, London, SE1 8NB

Tube: Waterloo Station , Southwark Station, Lambeth North Station

 

Dates: 06th April - 23rd May 2020

 

Olivier Award-winning actress Eileen Atkins and rising star Timothee Chalamet, whose recent film credits include Little Women and The King, star in Amy Herzog's 4000 Miles at The Old Vic this spring. The Pulitzer Prize-nominated play explores the relationship between 21-year-old Leo and his 91-year-old grandmother, Vera. When he shows up at her Manhattan home after weeks of cycling across America, they spend a month living together in the faded Greenwich Village apartment only to find their griefs colliding. Directed by Matthew Warchus, it will form part of his Season 5, which also features a Christmas Carol and Endgame, and will be Chalamet's UK stage debut.

 
 
 

Manor

Nancy Carroll and Ben Daniels star in Moira Buffini's new play.

National Theatre: Lyttelton Theatre, South Bank, London, SE1 9PX

Tube: Temple Station , Waterloo Station

 

Dates: 07th April - 06th June 2020

 

A new play by Moira Buffini, Manor sees Olivier Award-winning actors Nancy Carroll and Ben Daniels take to the National Theatre stage. When a violent storm sweeps the coast, several strangers seek refuge in Diana Stuckley's run-down manor house, which is in danger of losing its roof to the winds. One such stranger is Ted Farrier, a charismatic leader of the right-wing organisation who could either be Diana's saviour or tear the house apart completely. Fiona Buffini directs the piece, reuniting with Moira for the first time since the acclaimed Dinner.

 
 
 

RHS London Spring Launch and Orchid Show

Make dried flower bouquets and join botanical life drawing workshops.

Royal Horticultural Halls, 80 Vincent Square, Westminster, London, SW1P 2PE

Tube: St James's Park Station , Victoria Station

 

Dates: 07th - 08th April 2020

 

Exotic orchids and spring plants go on display at the RHS London Orchid Show at the Royal Horticultural Halls where the vibrant spring plants offer urban gardening inspiration. An immersive urban oasis created by CityScapes shows the positive benefits that being surrounded by plants can have. First-class growers will be on hand to share their tips and advice, learn how to make dried flower bouquets and join workshops on everything from Terrarium making to botanical life drawing. Timed to run before the long Easter weekend, the show is the perfect place to stock up on gardening goods, from seeds and bulbs to beautiful handmade, horticulturally inspired products, gifts and books. On Tuesday, the show is open late with drop in sessions by Hackney Herbal, a plant-based pub quiz hosted by Mr Plant Geek and demonstrations by Soho Farmhouse's Head Floral Designer, Raphael Verrion.

 
 
 

Shankar 100

Celebrating 100 years since the birth of Sitar maestro Ravi Shankar.

Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX

Tube: Waterloo Station , Embankment Underground Station

 

Dates: 07th April - 22nd May 2020

 

Various artists, led by members of his family, celebrate the life and music of the innovative musician and composer. 2020 marks 100 years since the birth of Indian musician and Sitar maestro Ravi Shankar. The Southbank Centre - a venue he had a 60-year association with - celebrates this landmark with a gala concert featuring his daughters Anoushka Shankar and Norah Jones, Nitin Sawhney and Olivia Harrison. Further tributes come from Akram Khan Company which presents Kaash, and London Philharmonic Orchestra as it performs Ravi Shankar's final work as well as his only symphony. BFI Southbank screens films scored by Ravi Shankar, and an exhibition featuring objects from his archive goes on display in the Royal Festival Hall where a specially-commissioned film fills the public spaces.

 
 
 
 

My First Ballet: Cinderella

An introduction to ballet for younger audiences.

Peacock Theatre, Portugal Street, Holborn, London, WC2A 2HT

Tube: Holborn Station , Covent Garden Station, Temple Station

 

Dates: 09th - 18th April 2020

 

English National Ballet has partnered with English National Ballet School to produce the My First Ballet series, a number of special performances aimed at children as young as three to introduce them to ballet through the magic of fairytales. Cinderella, the charming tale of rags-to-riches, is performed to music by Prokofiev and accompanied by narration. Tormented by her evil stepsisters, Cinderella dreams of the day she can escape and attend the Prince's enchanting ball. One night, when she's been abandoned for yet more cleaning, Cinderella is visited by her Fairy Godmother and her dreams begin to come true.

 
 
 

The London International Ska Festival

More than 60 acts play all things ska, rocksteady, reggae and dub.

O2 Academy Islington, N1 Centre, Parkfield Street, Camden Town, London, N1 0PS

Tube: Angel Station

 

Dates: 09th - 12th April 2020

 

Originally launched in 1988, this four-day London International Ska Festival returns to the capital over the Easter weekend and invites more than 60 acts to perform at O2 Academy Islington, London N1, The Dixie Queen and a number of other venues in celebration of all things ska, rocksteady, reggae, 2 Tone, dub and beyond. Confirmed acts for 2020 include Big Youth, Chainska Brassika, the eight piece ska-reggae band from south east London, and The Communicators. Easter Sunday sees a special woman's day featuring one of UK's brightest reggae stars Hollie Cook, and legendary artist Susan Cadogan - famed for her global hit Hurt So Good. The day also features a club night dedicated to Jamaican producer, Sonia Pottinger, with DJs Naoko The Rock (Japan), Texas Ranger and Grace of Spades.

 
 
 

Sadler's Wells Family Weekend

balletLORENT's The Lost Happy Endings is part of the family friendly Easter treat.

Sadler's Wells Theatre, Rosebery Avenue, London, EC1R 4TN

Tube: Angel Station

 

Dates: 10th - 11th April 2020

 

Spilling out into the foyer with dance workshops and free arts and crafts activities, the Family Weekend really opens up Sadler's Wells to a new generation of dance lovers. In 2020 balletLORENT returns to the Sadler's Wells stage with a new dance based on an original story by former poet laureate Carol Ann Duffy. The piece, narrated by Joanna Lumley and featuring 19 famous fairy-tale characters, takes the audience deep into the forest to meet Jub, a fearless girl with six fingers on each hand. With Snow White, Pinocchio, Cinderella and Goldilocks all putting in an appearance, this is the perfect Easter treat for the long weekend. As well as the shows on the main stage fun activities take place across the building including 'one step at a time like this', an interactive storybook where following the clues leads you backstage.

 
 
 

Rick Astley

The nineties pop star is back with his Greatest Hits Tour.

Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, London, SW7 2AP

Tube: South Kensington Station

 

Dates: 13th April 2020

 

His 1987 single Never Gonna Give You Up made Rick Astley a millionaire by the time he was 22. His was a success story from the Stock, Aitken and Waterman production house. Now, aged 54, he's back with his Greatest Hits Tour taking him to arenas around the UK including two back-to-back London shows at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall and the London Palladium. His shows are a mix of famous hits alongside current fan favourites and some inspired covers - from vintage tracks like AC/DC's 'Highway To Hell' to contemporary sounds like Calvin Harris and Rag 'n' Bone Man's 'Giant'.

 
 
 

Jack Absolute Flies Again

A new play from the writer of One Man, Two Guvnors.

National Theatre: Olivier Theatre, South Bank, London, SE1 8XZ

Tube: Embankment Underground Station

 

Dates: 15th April - 20th June 2020

 

Oliver Chris and Richard Bean - the writer responsible for One Man, Two Guvnors - present their new play, Jack Absolute Flies Again, at the National Theatre this April. Based on Richard Brinsley Sheridan's The Rivals, the production moves the comedy from the 18th century to 1940, replacing aristocrats with RAF officers. When Pilot Officer Jack Absolute returns back on British soil, he sets about winning the heart of his old flame Lydia but things take a turn when she demands to be loved on her own terms. Laurie Davidson and Natalie Simpson play Jack and Lydia, starring alongside Caroline Quentin and Richard Fleeshman.

 
 
 
 

Love Classical 2020

Welsh bass-baritone Bryn Terfel performs alongside famous friends at this one-off show.

Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, London, SW7 2AP

Tube: South Kensington Station

 

Dates: 15th April - 08th May 2020

 

Welsh bass-baritone and opera favourite Bryn Terfel headlines Love Classical 2020, performing his first headline concert at the Royal Albert Hall since his all-star 50th birthday in 2015. The singer, whose stellar 30-year career has seen him win two Grammy's and four Classic BRIT Awards, performs alongside famous friends at this one-off show. The classical music festival also includes rising stars Isata Kanneh-Mason, Eldbjorg Hemsing, Peter Holder and Moritz Gnann who celebrate Beethoven's 250th anniversary. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra spotlight choral classics by Verdi, Handel and Mozart with help from the City of London Choir, Brighton Festival Chorus and tenor Andres Presno.

 
 
 

La Linea

The London Latin Music Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary.

 

Dates: 15th April - 04th May 2020

 

There are around 250,000 Latin Americans in the capital and La Linea, the London Latin Music Festival which takes place each year in April, will make them feel right at home. For its 20th anniversary, the festival invites popular artists from previous years to return. Multi-Grammy-winning vocalist and songwriter Bebel Gilberto is supported by genre-bending Argentine trio on the rise Femina. Also back is Buenos Aires-based multi-instrumentalist and singer Melingo, who releases a brand-new album in March, and experimental folktronica artist Juana Molina. Mexican jazz drummer Tino Contreras, now in his nineties, , makes his UK debut at EartH Theatre while the Electric Brixton hosts the global premiere of Mestizo - a new collaboration between the new music scenes of Bogota and London featuring Steam Down and Theon Cross with Colombian musicians.

 
 
 

David Attenborough: A Life On Our Planet

The broadcaster and national treasure is joined by special guests for the premiere of his new film.

Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, London, SW7 2AP

Tube: South Kensington Station

 

Dates: 16th April 2020

 

Having done so much to raise awareness of the natural beauty - and fragility - of our planet, Sir David Attenborough continues his lifelong mission by unveiling his new film at the Royal Albert Hall. The famous 93 year old broadcaster will be joined by special guests for a discussion of some of the most pressing issues raised in the documentary, A Life On Our Planet. Sir David has a long association with the Royal Albert Hall. Since he first spoke here in 1963 he has returned many times, narrating the nation's favourite music, celebrating the 200th anniversary of Sir Charles Darwin's birth and playing a floor polisher as a musical instrument at the Last Night of the Proms. For this special one-off world premiere event, broadcast live to cinemas in the UK and beyond, five hundred of the best seats at this are reserved for young people working to tackle climate change.

 
 
 

Internationaal Theater Amsterdam: Death in Venice

Thomas Mann's 1912 novella is adapted for the stage.

Barbican Theatre, Silk Street, London, EC2Y 8DS

Tube: Barbican Station , Moorgate Station

 

Dates: 16th - 19th April 2020

 

Internationaal Theater Amsterdam adapts Thomas Mann's 1912 novella Death in Venice with direction from Ivo van Hove. Staged at the Barbican Theatre, the theatrical adaptation has been re-worked by former Dutch poet laureate Ramsey Nasr, who will also perform the role of Aschenbach, and will feature new music by American composer Nico Muhly alongside Strauss and Schoenberg. In the play a successful author struggling with writer's block travels to Venice only to be thrown into an ethical dilemma when he develops inappropriate feelings for a young boy.

 
 
 

Backyard Cinema: Paradise City

Experts in immersive cinema, Backyard Cinema gives us a glittering tropical neon haven.

Backyard Cinema, Capital Studios, Ram Quarter, London, SW18 1ET

Tube: East Putney Station

 

Dates: 16th April - 01st October 2020

 

Experts in immersive cinema, Backyard Cinema gives its permanent new home at Capital Studios a summer makeover and a new theme. You'll find Paradise City, a glittering tropical neon haven, via a secret entrance deep within a hidden laundrette. Emerge from the pink feathered corridor to discover a 250 seat elegantly decorated cinema where you can watch film favourites from the comfort of giant beanbags while sipping on exotic tropical cocktails. Enjoy multi-sensory cinema, sing-and-dance-along performances, epic light shows and tropical parties with films and live music in the studio bar. What's more you can feast on street food from Honest Burgers and Mother Clucker and cool down with Champagne slushies, garden cocktails, fresh natural wines, and the famous thirst-quenching Backyard Lager from Meantime plus there's a brand new summer wine bar wine as well as a seated courtyard.

 
 
 
 

Simple Minds

The Scottish rock outfit fronted by Jim Kerr celebrates 40 years in music.

SSE Arena, Wembley, Arena Square, Engineers Way, London, HA9 0DH

Tube: Wembley Park Station

 

Dates: 17th April 2020

 

The Scottish rock outfit formed in 1977, Simple Minds, performs the indie-rock hits its well known for. Celebrating 40 years in music the band - fronted by founder members Jim Kerr (vocals) and Charlie Burchill on guitar - embarks on a major world tour in 2020 taking in 12 countries and culminating with a homecoming show in Glasgow. They'll be stopping off at Wembley Arena to play early favourites dating back to their debut 1979 album 'Life in a Day', era-defining hits and recent material. Constantly evolving, the band's rousing choruses and booming atmospherics made them one of the most iconic bands of the '80s. They returned in 2014 with new album 'Big Music', claimed the Q Inspiration Award the same year and picked up 'Outstanding Song Collection' at the Ivor Novello awards in 2016.

 
 
 

Balance Festival

Alice Liveing, Richie Norton and Harry Jameson feature on the line-up of this year's wellness festival.

The Old Truman Brewery, 91 Brick Lane, London, E1 6QL

Tube: Aldgate East Station

 

Dates: 17th - 19th April 2020

 

A wellbeing festival designed to help you on your way to a healthy lifestyle, Balance Festival brings a whole host of London's fitness offerings to one place, The Old Truman Brewery, from 17th to 19th April 2020. Fitness favourites like best-selling author Alice Liveing, ex-rugby star and wellness guru Richie Norton, and fitness performance coach Harry Jameson are on the line-up this year. Boutique fitness studios including F45, Barry's Bootcamp, Boom Cycle and Another_Space are all offering classes like HIIT, cardio and strength, yoga and barre. Altogether, it's an ideal place to dip your toe into the water of wellbeing, try new fitness classes, sample healthy food and browse the latest products from over 100 brands from the latest athleisure gear to protein power balls.

 
 
 

Sony World Photography Awards Exhibition

From fashion to travel, portraiture to sport, see over 600 photographs up for an award.

Somerset House, Strand, Covent Garden, London, WC2R 1LA

Tube: Temple Station

 

Dates: 17th April - 04th May 2020

 

The World Photography Organisation stages a large-scale London exhibition showing the winning and shortlisted images of the 13th edition of the Sony World Photography Awards at Somerset House. More than 600 of the best professional and amateur contemporary photographs from around the world are selected, capturing everything from fashion to travel, portraiture to sport and photojournalism to architecture. The award is worth $30,000 to the winner and the exhibition includes The Book as Multiple by Gerhard Steidl. The German publisher receives the Outstanding Contribution to Photography Award this year, joining previous recipients Martin Parr, William Eggleston and Candida Hofer.

 
 
 

The Doctor

Juliet Stevenson reprises her role in Robert Icke's adaptation.

Duke of York's Theatre, St Martins Lane, London, WC2N 4BG

Tube: Leicester Square Station , Charing Cross Station, Covent Garden Station, Piccadilly Circus Station, Embankment Underground Station

 

Dates: 20th April - 18th July 2020

 

Described by the Guardian as 'one of the peak theatrical performances of the year', Juliet Stevenson reprises her role in Robert Icke's The Doctor when it transfers to the Duke of York's Theatre in 2020. An adaptation of Arthur Schnitzler's Professor Bernhardi, the production sees Ruth Wolff, a secular Jew who's in charge of an institute specialising in Alzheimer's disease, catapulted into the public eye when she prevents a Catholic priest from seeing a 14-year-old dying from a home abortion gone wrong. Olivier Award-winning Stevenson reprises her role as Wolff in the examination of medical ethics and identity politics.

 
 
 

Record Store Day

A one-day event proving the importance of old fashioned vinyl records.

 

Dates: 18th April 2020

 

The Big Moon is the official ambassador for this year's Record Store Day, a one-day event which marks the importance of old fashioned vinyl records. Music has now been purchased online for more than twenty years; however, despite the clear change in the music industry, recent years have also seen a rise in the sale of vinyl records. Music shops across London will join in on the occasion with a number of events, gigs, workshops and promotions. Over 20 record stores across the capital are putting on special events from Rough Trade East to Honest Jon's Records on Portobello Road. The release list this year includes specially created products from the likes of Christine and the Queens, Charli XCX and Tom Grennan to Paul McCartney, Primal Scream and My Chemical Romance. These will be made available over the counter only from participating shops with queues expected to start from the early hours.

 
 
 
 

St George's Day in Trafalgar Square

A jolly good knees up with a comedy tent, tea dance and a banquet befitting a pearly King and Queen.

Trafalgar Square, Central, Westminster, London, WC2N 5DS

Tube: Charing Cross Station , Leicester Square Station, Embankment Underground Station, Piccadilly Circus Station

 

Dates: 18th April 2020

 

The official Mayor of London's St George's Day celebrations fill Trafalgar Square with tea, cake and live entertainment on Saturday 18th April 2020. It's all part of the patriotic celebrations on the Saturday closest to 23rd April, the actual feast day of England's dragon-slaying patron saint. The square is decorated in red and white for the festival with stalls selling traditional English food - including Britain's favourite dish: chicken tikka masala - while live music is played by pop and folk groups. Thrill Collins and Massaoke, plus dance sensations Flawless are some of the acts set to take over the main stage, hosted by Lydia Bright. There's a comedy tent, a tea dance area, a banqueting area befitting a pearly King and Queen, a fabulous family area complete with a dragon egg research station, curiosities from the Charles Dickens Museum, football fun activities and an upcycling workshop. In short, it's a jolly good knees up - and it's all free.

 
 
 

Northern Ballet: Geisha

A new production based on a true story of two women bound by friendship.

Sadler's Wells Theatre, Rosebery Avenue, London, EC1R 4TN

Tube: Angel Station

 

Dates: 21st - 25th April 2020

 

As part of a UK tour and the company's 50th anniversary programme, Northern Ballet brings Kenneth Tindall's production of Geisha to Sadler's Wells this spring. Based around the true story of two women who are bound by vows of friendship, it sees the pair caught in the midst of a collision between East and West. With their lives being torn apart, they experience encounters from beyond the grave who are determined to unleash their vengeance on the world. An act of true devotion might be the only answer.

 
 
 

Marylebone Food Festival

Jay Rayner hosts a headline dinner and the area's best restaurants present special menus and events.

 

Dates: 21st - 26th April 2020

 

Returning for a third year, the Marylebone Food Festival brings together top restaurants, cafes, bars and food traders from the surrounding area. The festival launches with a headline dinner hosted by Jay Rayner with some of the neighbourhood's best restaurants (Jikoni, Lurra, Orrery and others) serving an indulgent eight-course feast. Further events in the four-day festival include special menus, exclusive masterclasses, one-off collaborations and food tours.

 
 
 

Harry Styles

The flamboyant One Direction superstar struts his stuff in a sequin jacket at The O2.

The O2 Arena, Peninsula Square, London, SE10 0BB

Tube: North Greenwich Station

 

Dates: 22nd - 23rd April 2020

 

The One Direction superstar heads out solo as he performs his pop-rock tunes from second album, Fine Line. Harry Style's 'Love On Tour' show arrives at The O2 on Wednesday 22nd and Thursday 23rd April 2020 when he's joined by rising pop star King Princess. A "flamboyant entertainer" (Telegraph) who struts his stuff in a sequin jacket, Styles is "an exuberant cross between Elvis and Jagger" when performing his '70s rock-inspired music live. These O2 concerts follow appearances on NBC's Saturday Night Live and performances on Jools Holland. Describing his second solo album as, "all about having sex and feeling sad" (NME), it's all the material he needs for a gig that radiates "pure joy".

 
 
 

Earth Day 2020 at Somerset House

Explore the future of sustainable fashion on the 50th anniversary of Earth Day.

Somerset House, Strand, London, WC2R 1LA

Tube: Temple Station

 

Dates: 22nd - 26th April 2020

 

Somerset House celebrates the 50th anniversary of Earth Day in 2020 with a line-up of innovative installations and interactive events. A worldwide event launched to champion transformative environmental change, Earth Day will take place on 22nd April and the Somerset House celebrations come as part of the venue's commitment to environmental sustainability. Highlights include the opportunity to contribute to a new sustainable fashion collection for London Fashion Week Men's 2020; special panels and workshops that explore the future of sustainable fashion with leading designers; and an Earth Day takeover of interactive installations Arrivals Departures. Family friendly workshops will also mark Earth Day itself and the closing weekend of exhibition Mushrooms: The Art, Design and Future of Fungi.

 
 
 
 

Hairspray the Musical

Michael Ball reprises his role as Edna Turnblad in the feel-good musical.

London Coliseum - English National Opera (ENO), St Martin's Lane, London, WC2N 4ES

Tube: Charing Cross Station , Leicester Square Station, Covent Garden Station, Embankment Underground Station

 

Dates: 23rd April - 29th August 2020

 

The London Coliseum is transformed into 1962 Baltimore this spring when the Tony Award-winning production of Hairspray the Musical returns for a limited run. Stage and screen star Michael Ball reprises his role as Edna Turnblad while the original award-winning creative team of director Jack O'Brien and choreographer Jerry Mitchell also return. The feel-good show follows Tracy Turnblad - a big girl with big dreams - as she tries to make it on the local TV dance show. Audiences can sing and dance along to feel good tunes Good Morning, Baltimore, You Can't Stop the Beat and Big, Blonde and Beautiful. Ball won an Olivier Award for his role in the original West End show while the production itself won four Olivier Awards for its West End run and three Tony Awards in New York.

 
 
 

Andre Rieu

The legendary Dutch violinist tours the UK having celebrated his 70th birthday in 2019.

SSE Arena, Wembley, Arena Square, Engineers Way, London, HA9 0DH

Tube: Wembley Park Station

 

Dates: 24th - 25th April 2020

 

The Dutch violinist and accompanying orchestra perform tunes from opera, operettas, film music and well-known folk songs. With more than 40 million albums sold globally and a string of sell-out tours under his belt, Andre Rieu is undoubtedly one of the most celebrated classical artists of our time. Known for his animated and jubilant concerts Rieu's audiences are often found out of their seats and waltzing in the aisles. The Dutch musician arrives in town with his 60-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra and his trusty 1667 Stradivarius violin to give fans two unforgettable evenings at Wembley Arena. Rieu created the Johann Strauss orchestra in 1987 and has been performing and touring the world with them ever since. He has become one of the world's most respected and renowned violinists and conductors.

 
 
 

Bags: Inside Out

An entire exhibition dedicated to the ultimate accessory.

Victoria and Albert (V & A) Museum, Cromwell Road, London, SW7 2RL

Tube: South Kensington Station

 

Dates: 25th April - 31st January 2021

 

From Margaret Thatcher's iconic handbag to Queen Mary's World War II gas mask, the V&A puts history's most famous bags on display in its major new exhibition, Bags: Inside Out. Whether you simply appreciate their functionality, or you desire the latest designs, no one can deny the long-standing appeal of bags, and this exhibition is dedicated entirely to the ultimate accessory. Divided into three sections, it follows the themes Function, Status and Identity, and Design and Making with everything from military rucksacks and Winston Churchill's red despatch box to innovative designs by Mulberry and Karl Lagerfeld on display. Other highlights include a Faberge Egg evening bag, a Fendi baguette bag and a Stella McCartney rucksack.

 
 
 

The Royal Opera: Tristan Und Isolde

See Christof Loy's award-winning production of Wagner's epic opera.

Royal Opera House, Bow Street, London, WC2E 9DD

Tube: Covent Garden Station , Leicester Square Station

 

Dates: 27th April - 11th May 2020

 

A major hallmark of Antonio Pappano's tenure as Music Director of the Royal Opera House has been his exploration of Wagner. Continuing that theme, he returns to conduct Tristan und Isolde, Christof Loy's award-winning production first performed here in 2009. Wagner's epic opera is an Arthurian love story of knights and duelling-to-the-death, which starts with the fiery Isolde being taken aboard a ship to marry King Marke of Cornwall against her will. She is escorted on the journey by the knight Tristan, the king's nephew, who she rails against as the one responsible for her situation. Tristan also killed her fiance Morold, but a mistaken love potion later and the opera enters an otherworldly evocation of love, in which state Tristan and Isolde risk everything to be together. Swedish tenor Michael Weinius and German soprano Ricarda Merbeth make their Royal Opera debuts in the challenging roles of Tristan and Isolde.

 
 
 

Zanele Muholi

The UK's first major mid-career survey of the South African visual activist.

Tate Modern, Bankside Power Station, 25 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9TG

Tube: Blackfriars Underground Station

 

Dates: 29th April - 18th October 2020

 

This April, Tate Modern presents the UK's first major mid-career survey of South African visual activist Zanele Muholi. With a strong focus on race, gender and sexuality, the artist's powerful works propelled her to prominence in the early 2000s and this exhibition presents the full breadth of Muholi's photographic and activist practice with works that challenges hetero-patriarchal ideologies and representations.

 
 
 
 

Affordable Art Fair Hampstead

Over 100 galleries come together under one roof.

Lower Fairground Site, East Heath Road, London, NW3 1TH

Tube: Hampstead Station

 

Dates: 02nd - 06th September 2020

 

The second Affordable Art Fair of the year in Hampstead is the little sister of the Battersea Park original which occurs in spring and autumn. Held in a marquee on the Lower Fairground Site on Hampstead Heath over the first weekend in May, the art fair brings over 100 galleries under one roof, exhibiting paintings, original prints, sculpture, etchings and photography from both established names and emerging talents - all priced from £50 to £6,000. Photography comes into focus at a new handpicked selection of works called 'Access' which will appeal to photography buffs and keen Instagrammers alike. It's the tenth consecutive year the Affordable Art Fair has come to Hampstead in its 20-year history with artists and gallerists presenting workshops and talks. Thursday is the Late View, an evening of art and activities with music and wine as well as art and sculpture demonstrations.

 
 
 

Joker - Live In Concert

A full orchestra plays Icelandic composer Hildur Gudnadottir's beautifully haunting score.

Hammersmith Apollo, 45 Queen Caroline Street, London, W6 9QH

Tube: Hammersmith Station

 

Dates: 30th April 2020

 

"Arthur is one of those people who has music in him" says director Todd Phillips of his award-winning Joker, the Joaquin Phoenix film which won the top prize at the Venice Film Festival. There's no better way, then, to see the movie than with a live orchestra. This London date at Hammersmith Apollo is the world premiere of Joker - Live In Concert and sees a full orchestra - and a string section led by a lone cello - playing Icelandic composer Hildur Gudnadottir's beautifully haunting score. Jeff Atmajian, the conductor and orchestrator of the original soundtrack, will be leading the orchestra.

 
 
 

Fragments

A play within a play featuring snippets of a lost work by Ancient Greek tragedian Euripides.

The Playground Theatre, Unit 8 Latimer Industrial Estate, Latimer Road, London, W10 6RQ

Tube: White City Station

 

Dates: 30th April - 16th May 2020

 

A new play by Laura Swift and Russell Bender, Fragments features snippets of a lost play by Ancient Greek tragedian Euripides. A play within a play, it sees two archaeologists tending to scraps of an ancient Greek manuscript, putting together the lost masterpiece piece by piece. The show explores the way in which archaeologists and historians reconstruct the past and questions how we construct memories, stories and world views based on our perceptions and assumptions. Staged at The Playground Theatre, it combines drama, humour, shadow puppetry and song.

 
 
 

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