December in London 2014

 
 
 
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Alfie Boe

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Alfie Boe
Statoil Masters Tennis
East London Design Show
Great Christmas Pudding Race
Tristan und Isolde
Riverdance
Danny Elfman's Music from the Films of Tim Burton
Treasure Island at the National Theatre
The Royal Ballet: Alice's Adventures in Wonderland
Basement Jaxx
The Knight of the Burning Pestle
The Little Match Girl
Santa Run Battersea Park
Santa Run Victoria Park
Etsy Pop-Up Shop
Cats: The Musical
Timber: Cirque Alfonse
City Of Angels
Edward Scissorhands
The Railway Children
Metronomy
Madness
Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Magic
Kasabian
Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown
Dressing Vivien Leigh
Stegosaurus
First World War in the Air
Santacon
Scrunch
Snowflakes with Cerrie Burnell
Snowflakes with Cerrie Burnell
Pantomime Horse Race
Acoustic Sunday
Midnight Mass at St Paul's Cathedral
English National Ballet: Nutcracker
English National Ballet: Nutcracker
 

 

In the final month of the year London boasts a suitably festive line up, with the annual Great Christmas Pudding Race and Santa Run returning. There's also the chance to pick up some designer gifts at the East London Design Show and St Paul's once again hosts its magical Midnight Mass.

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Dressing Vivien Leigh

A weekend-long exploration of the late actress's influence on fashion and costume design.

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

Tube: South Kensington Station

 

Dates: 05th December 2014

 

V&A curator Keith Lodwick discusses the actress Vivien Leigh and the costumes she wore as part of a weekend-long exploration (from Friday 5th to Sunday 7th December) of the late actress's influence on fashion and costume design by cultural platform Fashion & Cinema. 'Dressing Vivien Leigh' includes a Saturday night screening of 'The Roman Spring of Mrs Stone' at Ham Yard Hotel and a Sunday afternoon showing of Elia Kazan's 'A Streetcar Named Desire' at Cine Lumiere, South Kensington. The film will be introduced by John Lahr, author of 'Tennessee Williams: Mad Pilgrimage of the Flesh', and Vivien Leigh's biographer Kendra Bean.

 
 
 

Kasabian

The Glastonbury headliners play five sold out nights at Brixton.

O2 Academy Brixton, 211 Stockwell Road, London, SW9 9SL

Tube: Brixton Station

 

Dates: 01st - 06th December 2014

 

December sees Kasabian enjoy a short residency at Brixton Academy, with five sold out nights scheduled in as part of a 16-date tour. Ten years on from the release of their eponymous debut album, this year has been appropriately fruitful for the band, with a headline slot at Glastonbury, a historic hometown show at Victoria Park in Leicester and an acclaimed new album. The band will be supported by indie rock band The Maccabees.

 
 
 

Edward Scissorhands

Matthew Bourne translates the classic 1990 Tim Burton film into a delightful dance.

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

Tube: Angel Station

 

Dates: 02nd December - 11th January 2015

 

Having so successfully given new interpretations to classics like Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella and Nutcracker!, Matthew Bourne now brings Edward Scissorhands to Sadler's Wells this Christmas. This delightful dance adaptation of the classic 1990 Tim Burton film in which Johnny Depp plays a boy with scissors for hands returns for a six week season having first been staged in 2005. The title role will be played by popular New Adventures stars, Dominic North (Sleeping Beauty) "a strong dancer" who "conveys the pathos of the character with subtlety and restraint" (The Observer) and Liam Mower (the original Billy Elliot). Promising "a fresh new look at this magical production", Bourne has reworked the show for this revival. "The show's other star is Lez Brotherston's set," wrote Luke Jennings in The Observer reviewing the production at Sadler's Wells six years ago. "The Middle-American 'burbs are created by ranks of miniature candy-coloured villas in extreme perspective, a glance at one of the interiors revealing a hideous vase and a Tretchikoff print... Like all Bourne's shows, Scissorhands has its sophisticated little bonuses."

 
 
 

Statoil Masters Tennis

The highlight of the ATP Champions Tour.

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

Tube: South Kensington Station

 

Dates: 03rd - 07th December 2014

 

The highlight of the ATP Champions Tour is definitely the Statoil Masters Tennis event at the Royal Albert Hall as blasts from the past battle it out in London's prettiest indoor arena. To play in the tournament players must, at one time, have been the world Number One, a Grand Slam finalist or a player on a winning Davis Cup side (with exception of certain invited players) - so that means top quality. These guys might have lost a few ounces of speed and stamina over the years but they retain all the guile, poise and determination that made them champions in the first place. Last year, American Pat Rafter faced Tim Henman in the final after defeating Goran Ivanisevic on a stage usually reserved for Brahms, Beethoven and the Beatles. Expect a few days of competitive tennis with a healthy splash of fun as these past masters take to the court once again.

 
 
 

East London Design Show

More than a hundred stalls create the perfect chance to pick up a designer gift.

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

Tube: Aldgate East Station

 

Dates: 04th - 07th December 2014

 

For a refreshing and alternative shopping experience in the lead up to Christmas then try the annual East London Design Show at The Old Truman Brewery. The show celebrates its 20th birthday this year and is offering its usual supply of stylish surprises from more than one hundred of the best independent, product, interior and jewellery designers in London. The wares range from ceramics to clothes, to jewellery and furniture, and there's also stationary, children's toys, lighting, art and homewares, plus the requisite array of zany gimcracks and cheerios. Plus, this year welcomes a new food hall that will feature the best in local, national and international foods to gift. Expect something a little sleeker, funkier and less folksy and dated than the craft goods you'll find in the German Markets around town. Who knows, you might even be buying a future design classic. Shopping is the main event, but there's also a bar/cafe and workshops on sustainable gift-wrapping, hat making and toy making.

 
 
 
 

Stegosaurus

The world's most complete example of a Stegosaurus is unveiled at the Natural History Museum.

Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London, SW7 5BD

Tube: South Kensington Station , Gloucester Road Station

 

Dates: From 04th December 2014

 

The world's most complete example of a Stegosaurus, found in the USA 11 years ago, takes pride of place inside the Natural History Museum's Exhibition Road entrance from 4th December 2014. Set to rival the museum's Diplodocus in the Central Hall, arguably the most famous exhibit in the building, the 150 million year old Stegosaurus stenops is the first complete dinosaur specimen to go on display at the museum in close to a century. At 560 centimetres long and 290 centimetres tall with over 300 bones, the skeleton is similar in size to a 4x4 car, and although much smaller than Dippy (who is a whopping 32 metres long) the new Stegosaurus dinosaur is a real fossil while its larger rival is a replica cast.

 
 
 

First World War in the Air

The finest collection of First World War aircraft tells the story of air power in WWI.

RAF Museum, Grahame Park Way, Hendon, London, NW9 5LL

Tube: Colindale Station

 

Dates: 04th December - 31st December 2020

 

Eleven years after the first powered flight, aviation emerged as a force capable of changing the face of battle. In 1914 the Royal Flying Corps numbered just 1,500 people. By 1918, when the Royal Air Force was created, this had grown to more than 205,000. The full strategic value of air power had become all too evident - both on the battlefield and on the Home Front. The compelling story of the First World War in the Air is revealed in a major exhibition which includes the finest collection of First World War aircraft, medals, letters and uniforms on display in the Claude Grahame-White Hangar of the Royal Air Force Museum from 4th December 2014.

 
 
 

Tristan und Isolde

Christof Loy's award-winning production of Wagner's epic opera returns to the Royal Opera House.

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. Nina Stemme returns as Isolde and renowned Wagnerian John Tomlinson, who sings the role of King Marke, both reprise their roles from the 2009 production. They are joined by American tenor and Wagner specialist Stephen Gould as Tristan.

 
 
 

Etsy Pop-Up Shop

Handmade gifts on sale at the online retailer's pop-up shop.

Etsy House, Great Newport Street, London, WC2H 7JA

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

 

Dates: 05th - 07th December 2014

 

Etsy has invited designer-makers from across the UK to take part in Etsy House, a unique shop where every single item on sale is handmade by designers who work with the online shop. During the three days Etsy House is open designer-makers will host creative workshops and will be making personalised items live in store. Workshops on personalised letterpress stationery, hip flask engraving, custom jewellery and other crafty endeavours. The London Etsy House is sure to attract attention - not only is it well timed for Christmas shopping, it also follows the success of Etsy's first ever pop-up shop in Soho, New York, in 2013 which attracted over 20,000 visitors during the 10 days it was open. And this the first time the same thing is being done outside the US.

 
 
 

City Of Angels

Musical comedy set in the glamorous world of Broadway in the 1940s.

Garrick Theatre, 2 Charing Cross Road, London, WC2H 0HH

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

 

Dates: 05th March - 05th September 2020

 

A New York novelist is given the opportunity to adapt his detective character of his books into a big-screen hero in Cy Coleman and David Zippel's musical, City Of Angels, revived by the Donmar's Josie Rourke as the theatre's 2014 Christmas production. The musical comedy is set in the glamorous world of the film studios of Broadway in the 1940s and chronicles the misadventures of Stine, a young novelist, attempting a screenplay for movie producer/director, Buddy Fidler. The Light Princess actress Rosalie Craig stars opposite fiancee Hadley Fraser who returns to the Donmar following his performance in Rourke's production of Coriolanus earlier this year. Craig is making her Donmar debut as Stine's wife Gabby alongside Les Miserables' Samantha Barks who plays Mallory Kingsley, the missing step-daughter of striking socialite, Alaura Kingsley, who turns up in her birthday suit in Stone's bed.

 
 
 
 

Metronomy

The UK band come to Ally Pally in support of current album Love Letters.

Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, Wood Green, Tower Hamlets, London, N22 7AY

Tube: Bounds Green Station

 

Dates: 05th December 2014

 

Metronomy head back from their American tour to play a gig at Ally Pally this December, one of three dates at Glasgow, London and Manchester. Performing tracks from their latest album 'Love letters', which has received their highest album chart position and seen them on tour supporting Coldplay, the band will perform their "breezy French-inspired electro pop" (BBC). Merging "Motown with 1980s synths while exploring tempestuous long-distance dating" (Guardian), the band returns to London after a busy festival season playing two slots at Glastonbury and headlining London's Field Day festival earlier in the year. Support comes from Australian singer-songwriter and guitarist Courtney Barnett.

 
 
 

Great Christmas Pudding Race

A festive take on the egg and spoon race.

Covent Garden Piazza, Covent Garden, Covent Garden, London, WC2E 9DD

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

 

Dates: 07th December 2019

 

You're familiar with the egg and spoon race. Well how about the Christmas Pudding Race? Covent Garden Piazza swells with spectators as about 150 contestants in teams of six don fancy dress and race around a course strewn with flour-filled balloons, foam jets and other obstacles - all while trying to balance a Christmas pudding on a flimsy plate! The race has been going on every year since 1980 and it raises money for Cancer Research. At this time of year Covent Garden is a great place to be, with shops full of Christmas decorations and street entertainers putting on some diverting shows before and after the main event. The perfect way to break up a day of Christmas shopping in Covent Garden's collection of stylish stores.

 
 
 

The Royal Ballet: Alice's Adventures in Wonderland

See a stunning stage version of Lewis Carroll's fantastical tale at the Royal Opera House.

 

The Royal Ballet stages a stunning stage version of Lewis Carroll's fantastical tale which returns to the Royal Opera House following its well received 2011 world premiere here. Christopher Wheeldon's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland combines elaborate costumes, projections and backdrops with inventive props and music by Joby Talbot. Praised for its theatrical effects, all of Carroll's famous characters through the looking glass are portrayed in incredibly inventive ways. Although the story has been tweaked, beginning with a party in Oxford held by Alice's parents, children (from five years old) will enjoy the engaging show and atmospheric music and will recognise the twitchy White Rabbit, a tap dancing Mad Hatter, a sinuous caterpillar and The Queen of Hearts.

 
 
 

Santa Run Battersea Park

Dress up as Santa and run through Battersea Park in aid of Disability Snowsport UK.

Battersea Park, Albert Bridge Road, Battersea Park, Battersea, London, SW11 4NJ

Tube: Sloane Square Station

 

Dates: 03rd December 2016

 

Join hundreds of other Santas on a festive run through Battersea Park before relaxing afterwards with mulled wine and Christmas cake. No previous experience is needed for this fantastically festive day. Simply register online, turn up on the day, collect your free Santa outfit and tackle the 6km run. The spirit of the event is to be decided solely by the participants, meaning you can decide to walk, jog or run as fast or as slow as you like. Why will everyone be dressed as Santa? Well, ignoring the obvious (the time of year), proceeds from the run will be donated to Disability Snowsport UK, a national charity that helps people with disabilities to access the thrill of snow sports. If you've ever fancied a fun run through London whilst dressed as Father Christmas (and let's face it, who hasn't?) then this is the one for you. Alternatively, try out the Santa Run at Victoria Park on 7th December 2014.

Battersea Park is situated on the south bank of the river, opposite Chelsea. If you're looking for hotels in Battersea , our London Hotels page has plenty of great deals.

 
 
 

Cats: The Musical

Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger makes her West End stage debut as Grizabella.

London Palladium, 8 Argyll Street, London, W1F 7TF

Tube: Oxford Circus Station

 

Dates: 23rd October - 02nd January 2016

 

Appropriately enough, one-time Pussycat Doll, Nicole Scherzinger, makes her West End stage debut as Grizabella in Andrew Lloyd Webber's long-running musical based on TS Eliot's 'Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats'. One of the longest-running shows in West End - it played for 21 record-breaking years - Cats: The Musical returns to London's West End for 12 weeks from the beginning of December 2014. Cats is a wonderful show about the Jellicle cats who meet on one special night of the year at the Jellicle Ball. Long term Associate Director of Cats Chrissie Cartwright recreates Trevor Nunn's original direction featuring Gillian Lynne's choreography and some wonderful and well loved songs including Memory which became a Top 10 hit in the UK in 1981 for Elaine Paige who originally played the role of one-time glamour cat Grizabella in the first West End production.

 
 
 
 

Santacon

Bizarrely brilliant custom involving a gang of Santas running around town.

Secret Location, , Westminster, London, XX1 0LL

Tube:

 

Dates: 10th December 2016

 

Santacon, previously known as Santathon, is a bizarrely brilliant custom involving a gang of Santas running around town, singing customised carols, giving out gifts, and encouraging strangers to sit on their laps. What exactly is the point of all this?...we hear you ask. Well, these guys just want to celebrate Christmas and spread a whole lot of festive cheer. The rules for participating Santas are threefold a) be jolly b) wear a Santa suit, and c) don't get arrested. The meeting point and route is top secret and won't be announced until the day before, so keep an eye on the website for a full guide on how and where to get Santa-fied.

 
 
 

Santa Run Victoria Park

A second Santa run in London.

Victoria Park, Grove Road, Tower Hamlets, London, E3 5SN

Tube: Mile End Station

 

Dates: 08th December 2019

 

Further to the run in Battersea Park on 6th December, a Santa Run will also take place at Victoria Park on 7th December 2014. Participants are invited to dress up as Santa and run, jog or walk around the park, choosing to do either a 5km or 10km course. Run by doitforcharity.com, it's expected to see around 4,000 people take part to raise money for hundreds of different charities.

 
 
 

Snowflakes with Cerrie Burnell

The CBeebies presenter gives an interactive reading of her first picture book.

V and A Museum of Childhood, Cambridge Heath Road, London, E2 9PA

Tube: Bethnal Green Underground Station

 

Dates: 07th December 2014

 

Children aged 3 and older will want to join much-loved CBeebies presenter and children's author Cerrie Burnell for an interactive reading of her first picture book, Snowflakes. The book tells the story of Mia, who has left the city behind, and come to live with her Grandma in a land of forest and snow. At first she feels very different to the other children in the village. But then one night she runs out into the garden, and when she watches the snow falling, she realises that she herself is like one of the snowflakes - unique and perfect. The event is followed by an opportunity to get your book signed.

 
 
 

Acoustic Sunday

The last Acoustic Sunday of the year includes a Festive Craft Fair.

The Crypt St Peters Church, Northchurch Terrace, London, N1 4DA

Tube: Old Street Station

 

Dates: 07th December 2014

 

For the last Acoustic Sunday of the year there's a merry mix of foot stomping music, street-food sensation 2 Fingers, and a Festive Craft Fair on Sunday 7th December at the Crypt Cafe. You can shop, meet the craft makers and see demonstrations of the art of weaving and glass cutting at master classes dotted throughout the afternoon. London's original Fish Finger 'bad boys' 2 Fingers return with their latest gastronomic line-up with a festive twist, accompanied by warm spiced mulled wine and with improv-comedian James Ross as your 'Master of Ceremonies'. So dig out that reindeer jumper or those snowflake earrings, and head to the cool Crypt for a fanciful feast of fun, festive frolics and crafty Christmas cheer.

 
 
 

Golem

A colourful and philosophical show from the theatre collective 1927.

The Young Vic, 66 The Cut, London, SE1 8LZ

Tube: Southwark Station , Waterloo Station, Lambeth North Station

 

Dates: 09th December - 17th January 2015

 

Blending original animation with entrancing music and live performance, Golem explores one of the great questions of the modern world: what happens when man and machine become intertwined? A colourful and philosophical show from the theatre collective 1927, whose smash hit 'The Animals and Children took to the Streets', "a thrilling blend of junk-shop retro and hi-tech gadgetry" (Telegraph), caused Guardian theatre critic Michael Billington to "gawp at the sardonic wit". This UK premiere at the Young Vic, which proposes that the danger lies not in machine becoming more like man but in man becoming more like machine, is consequently one of the most anticipated new shows of 2014.

 
 
 
 

Scrunch

Scrunch, tear, rip and rustle - theatre for those as young as six months old.

Unicorn Theatre, 147 Tooley Street, More , London, SE1 2HZ

Tube: London Bridge Station

 

Dates: 09th December - 04th January 2015

 

The perfect introduction to theatre for the very young, Scrunch uses sounds like snow on the ground and visually appealing lights in a tree to create a sensory show for babies as young as six months old. This enchanting show delights in the ding dong ring of the doorbell signalling that there's a present for baby, not to be opened until Christmas Day. Created by award-winning director Sarah Argent, the one-man show is performed by Kevin Lewis who has directed over 50 productions for Theatr Iolo, and who captivates babies with the intriguing sounds he makes as he plays with paper - scrunching, tearing, ripping, rustling, and wrapping things up in it.

 
 
 

Riverdance

The Irish dancing phenomenon celebrates its 20th anniversary.

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

Tube: Hammersmith Station

 

Dates: 10th - 13th December 2014

 

The show which brought Irish dancing to the world stage celebrates its 20th anniversary with a nationwide tour which comes to London's Hammersmith Apollo in December. Riverdance started as the interval act during the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest and went on to become a worldwide hit, a show that has played 10,000 performances to more than 23 million fans in 45 countries. Following in the famous firey footsteps of Michel Flatley is James Greenan, the principle dancer of the Riverdance 20th Anniversary Tour which combines Celtic and Irish dance to a score by Bill Whelan. The London shows are the finale to a tour which calls at 16 venues across the UK from September 2014.

 
 
 

Basement Jaxx

The Brixton dance music duo bring their feel good house sounds to The O2 for one night only.

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

Tube: North Greenwich Station

 

Dates: 11th December 2014

 

Seasoned Brixton dance music duo Basement Jaxx bring their unique mix of dance music and flamboyant stage shows to The O2 on Thursday 11th December, the first time they've performed live in London since they brought the Somerset House Summer Series music festival to a rousing finish in 2013. Stalwarts of the dance music scene, Felix Buxton and Simon Ratcliffe have been bringing thumping house tunes with signature guest vocals to the dance floors of house and garage clubs in London and Ibiza for close to 20 years. They hardly need introducing but for those not familiar, Basement Jaxx started in Brixton in 1994 where they held a regular club night called Rooty. Six years later they finally released their debut album, Remedy, and dominated the dance scene in the late 90s, early noughties. Live, they appear alongside featured guest vocalists while carnival-like costumes including skeletons, feathers and bandaged mummies all appear on stage. Magical, mad, dance music at its best.

 
 
 

The Knight of the Burning Pestle

The madcap, mash-up, screwball comedy returns to the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse.

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, Bankside, London, SE1 9DT

Tube: Mansion House Station

 

Dates: 11th December - 11th January 2015

 

The Jacobean comedy written by Francis Beaumont, The Knight of the Burning Pestle, an uproarious play about a grocer and his wife returns to the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse from 11th December following a successful run here earlier in the year when the intimate indoor theatre at Shakespeare's Globe's was newly opened. Reviewing it at that time, Micheal Billington wrote in The Guardian, "It's a production that takes the play off the academic shelf and gives it new life, with lively performances all round". Beaumont's experimental play, written to be performed at the Blackfriars playhouse by the Children of the Queen's Revels, was one of the first madcap comedies to hit the English stage.

 
 
 

English National Ballet: Nutcracker

Wayne Eagling choreographs for the English National Ballet to Tchaikovsky's famous score.

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

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

 

Dates: 13th December - 06th January 2018

 

A very traditional interpretation of E.T.A. Hoffman's 'The Nutcracker, English National Ballet's version has been staged every year since 1950. In 2010 Wayne Eagling (artistic director of the company from 2005 to 2012) created this version to celebrate the company's 60th birthday. This glittering production, with an Edwardian setting created by Peter Farmer, cannot fail to get you in the Christmas spirit. As sure as putting up fairy lights, filling Christmas stockings and having too much mulled wine at the office party, watching Clara dance in front of the Christmas tree is a truly festive thing to do. It's hard to imagine a production more indulgently sumptuous than Wayne Eagling's choreography to Tchaikovsky's famous score. From the heart-warming family party of the opening scene to the appearance of the magical kingdom, the action beckons you in. View our great ticket deals for English National Ballet's Nutcracker.

 
 
 
 

The Way Back Home

A delightful introduction to the magical world of opera.

The Young Vic, 66 The Cut, London, SE1 8LZ

Tube: Southwark Station , Waterloo Station, Lambeth North Station

 

Dates: 11th - 23rd December 2014

 

Oliver Jeffers's enchanting book, The Way Back Home, is brought to life though Joanna Lee's opera for families and children aged between 5 and 8 years old in this delightful introduction to the magical world of opera. The perfect family treat this Christmas, English National Opera perform the story of a boy who, on discovering an aeroplane in his cupboard, flies off towards the stars in search of adventure at the Young Vic. Created by Katie Mitchell and Vicki Mortimer, the pair behind the National Theatre's acclaimed stage adaptation of Dr Seuss's The Cat in the Hat, The Way Back Home is an exciting co-production and ENO's first ever show for children.

 
 
 

Alfie Boe

The English tenor plays at the O2 for the first time.

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

Tube: North Greenwich Station

 

Dates: 12th December 2014

 

Following the release of his new album 'Trust', Alfie Boe will play at the O2 for the first time in December 2014. The English tenor - known as 'The Nation's Tenor' - became a household name after he broke into the industry back in 2011, selling nearly 700,000 copies of his hit albums 'Bring Him Home' and 'Alfie'. In this latest album, the follow up of his 2012 release 'Storyteller', Boe moves away from his traditional operatic repertoire to create a more contemporary sound and applies his voice to a set of country and blues, folk and gospel.

 
 
 

Danny Elfman's Music from the Films of Tim Burton

Live music is performed alongside Burton's original sketches shown on the big screen.

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

Tube: South Kensington Station

 

Dates: 12th December 2014

 

A multimedia concert of Danny Elfman's scores for filmmaker Tim Burton returns to the Albert Hall for one night only in December, following its sell-out world premiere at the South Kensington venue last year. Four-time Oscar-nominee Danny Elfman has written for Burton classics such as Beetlejuice, Batman, Edward Scissorhands, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Alice in Wonderland and Frankenweenie. In this concert his music is played live by the orchestra while by a collection of Burton's original sketches, drawings and storyboards are shown on the big screen.

 
 
 

Jeff Wayne's The War Of The Worlds Final Arena Tour

The live version of HG Wells' novel goes on tour for the final time.

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

Tube: North Greenwich Station

 

Dates: 13th December 2014

 

After five previous successful tours, Jeff Wayne's Musical Version of The War of the Worlds will tour for the sixth and final time in 2014. Coinciding with the 115th anniversary of the HG Wells novel and the 75th anniversary of Orson Welles' radio adaptation, the tour comes to the O2 arena for two shows on Saturday 13th December. The musical concert version will see Brian McFadden star as The Journalist, Jason Donovan reprise his role as Parson Nathaniel and Carrie Hope Fletcher as his wife, Beth. Joseph Wheel from 2013's XFactor will also join the show as The Voice of Humanity and Liam Neeson's screened performance as The Journalist will feature.

 
 
 

The Little Match Girl

Arthur Pita's adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen's classic story gets its first London showing.

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

Tube: Angel Station

 

Dates: 13th - 24th December 2017

 

A snowy stage sets the scene for an icy cold Christmas Eve, where the Little Match Girl paces the emptying streets, shivering and desperate, trying to sell her matches. This magical new production based on Hans Christian Andersen's classic story, adapted by celebrated director and choreographer Arthur Pita, gets its first London showing as the Sadler's Wells Christmas show at the Lilian Baylis theatre. Classically based dance moves are performed against a clever set by Yann Seabra and to a score by Frank Moon which uses pre-recorded and live sound. The story may not be the most cheerful but a trip to the moon prompts a fun-filled episode with an astronaut and a miniature space shuttle - more than enough to keep the over 5s enthralled.

 
 
 
 

Bombay Bicycle Club

The band's largest UK tour to date culminates on 13th December at Earls Court.

Earls Court Exhibition Centre, Warwick Road, London, SW5 9TA

Tube: West Brompton Station , Earls Court Station

 

Dates: 13th December 2014

 

On the back of their fourth studio album, So Long, See You Tomorrow, released in February 2014 and a stunning performance at Glastonbury's Other Stage, Bombay Bicycle Club will play at Earl's Court for one night this December. The homecoming gig comes as part of the first major UK headline tour in two years from the North London band. With three diverse albums already under their belt and confirmation that this new album is the most dance and electronic influenced yet, audiences can expect a quality evening of genre hopping music and dance-inducing tracks tied together with Jack Steadman's signature vocals.

 
 
 

Pantomime Horse Race

Over 40 Panto horses (and maybe the odd cow) take to the streets of Greenwich.

Greenwich, , London, SE10 9HF

Tube: North Greenwich Station

 

Dates: 14th December 2014

 

On Sunday 14th December over 40 Panto horses (and maybe the odd cow) will take part in fantastically silly, fun-packed comedy race through the streets of Greenwich, leaving from Devonport House, all in the name of charity. For its 5th year, the event takes on a science fiction theme that will see dozens of cosplayers including Darth Vader, Princess Laia, Queen Amidala, an R2D2 unit and a battalion of Stormtroopers form a spectacular procession at the pre-race ceremony. Go to Greenwich for the absurd sight of galloping pantomime horses accompanied by crowds of fans in bizarre fancy dress.

 
 
 

London International Horse Show

The UK's only World Cup dressage qualifier, show jumping, trotting ground and shopping.

Olympia Exhibition Centre, Hammersmith Road, Kensington, London, W14 8UX

Tube: Kensington (Olympia) Station

 

Dates: 15th - 21st December 2015

 

London's annual equestrian fiesta graces Olympia once more for a full week of galloping, jumping and pinpoint dressage steps. There's enough to please everybody at the London International Horse Show, with the UK's only World Cup dressage qualifier, spectacular show-jumping competitions, and some fantastic equestrian shopping opportunities. As well as the elegant steeds trotting around, there are usually some dog-related competitions too, including a canine agility contest. The grand finale is an enormous festive parade with hundreds of horses, costumes and music combining to a spectacular climax.

 
 
 

The Railway Children

Mike Kenny's Olivier Award-winning adaptation pulls in to King's Cross.

King's Cross Theatre, Cnr Of King's Boulevard And Goods Way, London, N1C 4AG

Tube: King's Cross Station

 

Dates: 16th December - 08th January 2017

 

Mike Kenny's Olivier Award-winning adaptation of The Railway Children, staged at Waterloo three years ago, moves to King's Cross Theatre for a Christmas run. E Nesbitt's classic tale is specially adapted for the railway setting by Mike Kenny. A highlight of this site specific theatrical production in which the three children are forced to make do after their father's false imprisonment is a real steam locomotive, Silver Stirling, whose steam and noise certainly adds to the atmospheric setting. When the show premiered at the National Railway Museum, York, in the summer of 2008 it was described as "pretty spectacular" (The Guardian) with Kenny's "unsentimental adaptation" praised for reclaiming the text from romantic notions and frilly petticoats, returning to Nesbit's original Fabian message. The rest of the station has been put to good use too - while you're waiting for the play to start, you can browse an exhibition all about E Nesbit's original book, the history of the railways, the Railway Children Charity, and the play's Yorkshire setting. The train now departing from platform 5 may not be bound for Paris but it promises just as much drama and excitement - and a tear jerking climatic final scene.

 
 
 

The Who Hits 50

Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend celebrate 50 years of The Who.

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

Tube: North Greenwich Station

 

Dates: 17th - 18th December 2014

 

CANCELLATION NOTICE: Due to illness The Who has had to postpone the final December 2014 shows of their sell out 'The Who Hits 50' UK tour at The O2 arena. Re-scheduled to 22nd and 23rd March 2015. Tickets will be valid.

The long-established band originally formed in London as The High Numbers, performs its rock originals led by the two surviving members, Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend who has said: "This is the beginning of the long goodbye". The show will be 'Hits, Picks, Mixes and Misses' says Pete Townshend with the band playing all the classic anthems - taken from albums Who's Next, Tommy, Quadrophenia and My Generation - as well as tackling deeper cuts from their 50-year back catalogue.

 
 
 
 

Madness

The 'Our House' ska septet bring their tour to an end.

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

Tube: North Greenwich Station

 

Dates: 10th December 2016

 

Hailing from Camden, the ska septet reigned through the 70s and 80s with their upbeat singles including House of Fun, Nightboat to Cairo and One Step Beyond, and continue to perform with their most recognised line-up led by Graham 'Suggs' McPherson. They've played on the roof of Buckingham Palace and at Alexandra Palace but in 2014 Madness is at one of London's biggest and best concert venues, The O2. This one-night-only gig on Saturday 20th December brings their 'All for the M.A.D.H.E.A.D' tour to an end.

 
 
 

Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown

Tamsin Greig stars in a surprising, heart-breaking and rebellious musical comedy.

Playhouse Theatre, Northumberland Avenue, London, WC2N 5DE

Tube: Embankment Underground Station , Charing Cross Station

 

Dates: 17th December - 23rd May 2015

 

Olivier-Award winner Tamsin Greig (Episodes, Green Wing, Jumpy, God of Carnage), who made her name as Debbie Aldridge in Radio 4's The Archers, makes her musical theatre debut in the UK premiere of Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown. Pedro Almodovar's Oscar-nominated film has been adapted for the stage by the all-American writing team of David Yasbek and Jeffrey Lane, whose Dirty Rotten Scoundrels musical is currently playing to positive reviews in the West End. Pepa (Tamsin Greig) and her friends juggle their everyday lives and extraordinary moments in a surprising, heart-breaking and rebellious musical comedy. The production is directed by Tony Award-winner Bartlett Sher, resident director of the Lincoln Center theatre in New York.

 
 
 

Timber: Cirque Alfonse

Circus show featuring a family from the remote forests of Quebec.

Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX

Tube: Waterloo Station , Embankment Underground Station

 

Dates: 21st - 31st December 2014

 

First seen at the Southbank Centre in July last year, Timber!, a circus show featuring a family from the remote forests of Quebec, returns to the site of its UK premiere for a Christmas run. With juggling axes, daring aerial acrobatics and stunts with lumberjack saws, this isn't a show for the faint hearted. Throw in a spot of clog dancing, tight-rope walking, cooking, vegetable chopping and storytelling, and it definitely wins the prize for the most random event on the South Bank's Christmas programme. Presented by circus company Cirque Alfonse, the Quebecois family which spans three generations, the show is set to traditional music with fiddles, a jaw harp, banjos and rowdy singing.

 
 
 

Treasure Island

Robert Louis Stevenson's classic adapted by Bryony Lavery for the National.

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

Tube: Embankment Underground Station

 

Dates: 22nd December - 08th April 2015

 

The National Theatre's Christmas kids' show takes Robert Louis Stevenson's classic, Treasure Island, and adapts it for children aged ten and above. This stage adaptation has been written by Bryony Lavery, the 67-year-old playwright best known for her play Frozen, who has also penned The Believers, playing at the Tricycle Theatre earlier in the year, in spring 2014. Speaking to the Ham & High about Treasure Island, Lavery said, "It's made me think that characters don't always have to say things to show what they mean." She continued: "Most of our experiences of strong emotions are silent. We are quite gobstruck and rarely say, 'I am feeling like this'. My aim is to keep it as spare as possible and write as few words to give the sound and acting space." Polly Findlay, who has directed Protest Song, War Horse (Berlin), Antigone, and Double Feature for the National, directs.

 
 
 

Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Magic

Mickey, Minnie, Donald Duck and the Disney Princesses are joined by their friends.

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

Tube: North Greenwich Station

 

Dates: 26th December - 05th January 2020

 

A colourful cast of more than 60 Disney characters take part in this show on ice as Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic. Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and the Disney Princesses are joined by their friends from Disney's Mulan, The Lion King and Pinocchio, and Disney/Pixar films Finding Nemo, The Incredibles and Toy Story, as they take to the ice for a grand celebration. Produced by Feld Entertainment, this production features Disney stars that span the decades, a sing-along score of award-winning Disney music and beautiful costumes.

 
 
 
 

Midnight Mass at St Paul's Cathedral

The perfect place to usher in Christmas Day.

St Paul's Cathedral, St Paul's Churchyard, City, London, EC4M 8AD

Tube: St. Paul's Station , Mansion House Station, Blackfriars Underground Station

 

Dates: 24th December 2014

 

Sir Christopher Wren's magnificent St Paul's Cathedral, viewed by many as the spiritual home of Great Britain, is a wonderful place to be on the night before Christmas when the Choir of St Paul's Cathedral is joined by Barbican Brass to mark the first Eucharist of Christmas. This is one of many Christmas celebrations held at the cathedral throughout December. Demand is so great that St Paul's puts on a series of special events but the high point has to be the Midnight Mass service. The cathedral's famous dome, which peaks over the top of London's skyline from miles around, fills with the soaring sounds of the Cathedral Choir. In candlelit, majestic surroundings in the middle of the city, this is the perfect place to usher in Christmas Day before wrapping up warm and making your way home through the magically deserted streets. All you need is a fresh coating of snow to settle...

 
 
 

New Year's Eve Fireworks

You'll have to pay £10 this year but it'll be worth it.

London Eye , Jubilee Gardens, South Bank, South Bank, London, SE1 7PB

Tube: Embankment Underground Station , Westminster Station, Waterloo Station

 

Dates: 31st December 2019

 

The annual New Year's Eve Fireworks display, launched from the foot of the London Eye and from rafts on the Thames, is visible from most of central London: the basic rule is that if you can see the London Eye, you'll be able to see the show. They cram enough firepower for an hour-long display into ten explosive minutes, lighting up the sky for miles around. The best views are from Victoria Embankment, the South Bank, and Westminster Bridge and Waterloo Bridge. Hungerford Bridge is closed after 8pm and there's also no entry to Westminster Bridge after this time. Watched by half a million people last year, in 2014 the organisers have introduced a £10 charge and ticketing in order to prevent overcrowding. Tickets will be available at 12 noon on Friday 26th September 2014. Go to www.london.gov.uk for full details.

 
 
 

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