July in London 2014

Stumble this
 
 
 
 
Previous image

Monty Python Live (Mostly): One Down, Five To Go

Next image
Monty Python Live (Mostly): One Down, Five To Go
Tour de France: Monday 7th July 2014
Lovebox
Henley Royal Regatta
Wimbledon Finals Weekend
RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show
Kew the Music
British Summer Time: Backstreet Boys
Wireless Festival
The Gershwins' Porgy and Bess, Regent's Park Open Air Theatre
Brasil Brasileiro, Sadler's Wells
Royal Opera: La Boheme
Shelagh Wakely
First World War Galleries
British Summer Time 2014: The Libertines
Buckingham Palace Summer Opening
Camden Lock Live
BP Big Screen: The Royal Opera: La Boheme
Rhythm of the Dance
My Night With Reg
Virginia Woolf: Art, Life and Vision
Danny Boyle's SHUFFLE Festival
Richard III
Cubania
Lambeth Country Show
Designing A Moment: The London 2012 Cauldron
Digital Revolution
 

 

The mighty Monty Pythons come to London's O2 in July when summer festivals Lovebox, Wireless and British Summer Time return and, on Monday 7th July, the Tour de France cycles into town.

Filter by category:
 
 

Monty Python Live (Mostly): One Down, Five To Go

Surrealist legends John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones and Michael Palin.

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

Tube: North Greenwich Station

 

Dates: 01st - 20th July 2014

 

Due to overwhelming popular demand - tickets for the first reunion performance sold out in a record 43.5 seconds - nine shows were added to the Monty Python Live run at The O2 in July 2014 - and those sold out fast too. The show reunites Monty Pythons, surrealist legends John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones and Michael Palin, for their first live performance since 1980. The Pythons, all successful in their own right, reunite for a not-to-be-missed performance of their highly acclaimed and hugely influential comedy sketch show. Monty Python first came into our lives in 1969 with the Flying Circus and went on to influenced two generations of comedy writers with films like Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Life of Brian and The Meaning of Life. The shows will no doubt be a highlight of the live comedy acts performing in London in 2014 and a talking point for many years after that.

 
 
 

Nederlands Dans Theater 1: Sehnsucht Schmetterling

The contemporary Dutch dance company presents two works never before seen in the UK.

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

Tube: Angel Station

 

Dates: 01st - 04th July 2014

 

Innovative contemporary Dutch dance company Nederlands Dans Theater return to Sadler's Wells for the first time since celebrating their 50th anniversary in 2009, bringing two works never before seen in the UK. Founded in 1978 the collective provides a stage for young dancers aged between 17 and 23 who perform 'Sehnsucht', an exploration of the binding and transformative power of love, and 'Schmetterling' which concerns the transitional nature of existence. Both pieces are choreographed by Sol Leon and Paul Lightfoot.

 
 
 

Richard III

Martin Freeman and Gina McKee star in Jamie Lloyd's production of Shakespeare's history drama.

Trafalgar Studios, 14 Whitehall, London, SW1A 2DY

Tube: Charing Cross Station , Embankment Underground Station

 

Dates: 01st July - 27th September 2014

 

Sherlock star Martin Freeman stars as Richard III in Jamie Lloyd's production of Shakespeare's history drama, appearing alongside Gina McKee (Di & Viv & Rose, King Lear, Ivanov, Our Friends In The North, Notting Hill) who plays Queen Elizabeth. Freeman plays the conniving king as the War of the Roses continue to rage. The Duke of Gloucester schemes to get his hands on the throne of England and romance the widow Anne. Richard III marks the start of Jamie Lloyd's second season at Trafalgar Transformed, a string of productions at Trafalgar Studios which go beyond the stage with an array of extras including debates, masterclasses and reheased readings. It also offers star performers at bargain prices - all tickets for Monday performances are just £15, half of which are offered to students and first-time theatregoers.

 
 
 

Henley Royal Regatta

Thousands gather to eat picnics and drink Pimm's by the waterside.

Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, London, RG9 2AQ

Tube: Amersham Station

 

Dates: 01st - 05th July 2015

 

Henley Regatta is a historic occasion, set in a riverside village that has hardly changed in the last two centuries and bringing some serious competition to the water in one of Britain's most famous summer sporting events. It has been running since 1839, and has grown from a local event into one of the biggest meetings in rowing, attracting crews of international quality to an array of Challenge Trophies. The draw is still conducted on a knock-out basis with only two boats racing in each heat. Nineteen events take place over the five days including six classes of races for Eights and aces for Coxless Pairs and Double Sculls. But this is just as much a social event, with thousands gathering to eat picnics and drink Pimm's aplenty by the waterside. Expect lots of Tim-Nice-But-Dims as the English upper class and middle classes descend in their hoards.

 
 
 

Shakespeare in Love

Cheek by Jowl bring the hit film to the London stage.

Noel Coward Theatre, St Martin's Lane, Covent Garden, London, WC2N 4AU

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

 

Dates: 02nd July - 18th April 2015

 

The hit 1998 film Shakespeare in Love comes to the London stage in July 2014, adapted by writer Lee Hall, whose previous hit productions include The Pitman Painters and Billy Elliot. The stage adaptation, directed and designed by Cheek by Jowl's Declan Donnellan and Nick Ormerod, promises to be a music and dance extravaganza which will transport audiences back to Shakespeare's London. Based on the screenplay by Marc Norman and Tom Stoppard, the story follows promising playwright Will Shakespeare who is plagued by debt and tormented by writer's block. In his search for a new hit he finds inspiration in his muse, the young noblewoman, Viola De Lesseps. The backstory to the writing of Romeo and Juliet, which includes a walk-on part for Queen Elizabeth herself, has all the ingredients for a huge hit.

 
 
 
 

Kopparberg Urban Forest

A bespoke woodland bar with a programme of live music and club nights.

Abbot Street Car Park, Fitzroy House Abbot Street, London, E8 3DP

Tube: Highbury & Islington Station

 

Dates: 10th June - 12th July 2015

 

After the success of their winter forest bar last year, Kopparberg are hosting a summer version this July, the Urban Forest in Dalston. The bespoke woodland bar, inspired by the Swedish pine forest just above the brewery in the small town of Kopparberg, will be open for five weeks and will offer a programme of live music, street art and tempting food. The bar will obviously be serving a range of Kopparberg flavours, ranging from the recognised Strawberry & Lime and Mixed Fruits to the lesser-known Cloudberry and Elderflower & Lime. Plus, there will be a rarely seen selection of beers from the Kopparberg Bryggeri and a menu of cocktails. Swedish bar and kitchen Fika will be serving traditional Swedish meatballs and herring while Buffalo Joe's and Mama's Jerk Station will offer Buffalo wings, pulled pork burgers and Jerk chicken wraps. Each night will see different artists and DJs take to the stage, including Scandinavian acts such as Little Dragon, Francobello and Karin Park - visit the official Urban Forest website for the complete line-up.

 
 
 

Barclaycard presents British Summer Time Hyde Park

Super boy band group McBusted, Backstreet Boys and Neil Young top the bill

Hyde Park, Rangers Lodge, Hyde Park, London, W2 2UH

Tube: Knightsbridge Station

 

Dates: 03rd - 12th July 2020

 

Following its successful debut last year, British Summer Time Hyde Park returns in July 2014 with super boy band group McBusted headling the opening weekend and Neil Young topping the bill the following weekend, live in Hyde Park. Added to these headliners are support acts performing across 4 different stages including Backstreet Boys and Scouting for Girls (on Sunday 6th July), Brooklyn-based band The National, Tom Odell, Caitlin Rose, Phosphorescent and Flyte (Saturday 12th July). Across Hyde Park there will be four themed zones, each with its own installations and entertainment including restaurants, salons, pubs, cocktail bars, cafes, bistros and food stalls. And from Monday to Thursday smaller, more intimate film, music, literature and sport events as well as a specific family day are held at venues across the site excluding the main stage.

 
 
 

British Summer Time 2014: Arcade Fire

Canadian rockers Arcade Fire open this year's British Summer Time season in London's Hyde Park.

Hyde Park, Rangers Lodge, London, W2 2UH

Tube: Knightsbridge Station

 

Dates: 03rd July 2014

 

Canadian rockers Arcade Fire open this year's British Summer Time season in London's Hyde Park, promoting the album Reflektor, with special guest Jake Bugg and support from Wild Beasts, Band Of Skulls and Future Islands. Known for the carnival atmosphere at their concerts, the Montreal-based indie-rockers will be joined by Haitian percussionists and a string section on stage.

 
 
 

Digital Revolution

Multimedia extravaganza at the Barbican showing the cutting-edge of digital technology.

Barbican Centre, Silk Street, City, London, EC2Y 8DS

Tube: Barbican Station , Moorgate Station

 

Dates: 03rd July - 14th September 2014

 

The Barbican's big summer exhibition tackles the impact of digital technology in the arts since 1970 and considers how it might develop in the future in the light of new technologies such as augmented reality, artificial intelligence, wearable technologies and 3D printing. This multimedia extravaganza includes work from across the creative spectrum: artists, filmmakers, designers, musicians, architects and game developers amongst others. The Barbican has also commissioned new pieces from artists Umbrellium (Usman Haque and Nitipak 'Dot' Samsen), Universal Everything and will.i.am especially for the exhibition, as well as a collaboration with digital art installations created in collaboration with Google.

 
 
 

Wireless Festival

Kanye West, Drake and Bruno Mars headline the festival which moves to Finsbury Park.

Finsbury Park, Endymion Road, London, N4 1EE

Tube: Manor House Station

 

Dates: 04th - 06th July 2014

 

Kanye West, Drake and Bruno Mars headline the Wireless Festival in 2014 which has been entertaining Londoners every summer for a decade. In its tenth year the music festival moves to Finsbury Park from the former Olympic Park and also takes place in Birmingham on the same July weekend. There's a great line-up this year with Kanye West, Pharell Williams and Basement Jaxx all appearing on Friday 4th July, Saturday sees Drake, Rudimental and Azealia Banks play live while Sunday combines the talents of Bruno Mars, Outkast and Ellie Goulding on a bill which also includes John Newman, Clean Bandit, Salt-n-Pepa and Neon Jungle. Wireless has firmly established itself as one of London's major large scale live music events, attracting crowds of over 20,000 for each of the three days and this year looks set to top them all. Tickets for Wireless Festival go on sale Friday 31 January at 9am.

 
 
 
 

West Side Story

The live music screening of iconic musical eturns to the Royal Albert Hall due to phenomenal demand.

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

Tube: South Kensington Station

 

Dates: 04th - 06th July 2014

 

Following its sold-out fiftieth anniversary performances in 2012 the live music screening of iconic musical West Side Story returns to the Royal Albert Hall due to phenomenal demand. The film is screened in high definition and brought to life by the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra in a spectacular show which celebrates the original movie in all its glory. The emotionally charged score features the original vocals on songs like 'Tonight', 'Somewhere' and 'I Feel Pretty.' Set in hot and restless downtown New-York in the 1950s, Tony and Maria are our American Romeo and Juliet who find themselves torn between warring families and rival gangs until the situation inevitably ends in tragedy. The film won ten Academy Awards and featured a remarkable performance from Natalie Wood, whose tragic drowning continues to cause mystery and controversy in the press. The show only runs for five performances so be sure to book soon if you don't want to miss out.

 
 
 

British Summer Time 2014: Black Sabbath

Ozzy Osbourne and band mates Geezer Butler and Tony Iommi headline on Friday 4th July.

Hyde Park, Rangers Lodge, London, W2 2UH

Tube: Knightsbridge Station

 

Dates: 04th July 2014

 

Ozzy Osbourne and band mates Geezer Butler and Tony Iommi headline the main stage with a bombastic display of heavy rock with Soundgarden, plus special guests Faith No More and Motorhead and Soulfly. The other stages and arenas welcome Wolfmother, Hell, Kobra And The Lotus, Broken Hands, The Bots, Gallows, Bo Ningen, Hang The Bastard, A Plastic Rose, Blitz Kids, The Struts, The First and The Cuban Brothers.

 
 
 

Tour de France: Monday 7th July 2014

The world's top road cyclists race through London from the Olympic Park via The Mall.

 

Dates: 05th - 27th July 2014

 

The Tour de France, the world's largest annual sporting event, comes to London on Monday 7th July 2014. The event which sees the world's top road cyclists compete for the famous yellow jersey will see huge numbers of people lining the streets of the capital to see the action. The best places to see the cyclists, who leave from Cambridge City Centre at 12noon and pass through Chelmsford at around 1.50pm, are the Olympic Park where the cyclists are expected at approximately 2.55pm and The Mall where the race finishes at around 3.30pm. 'The Caravan', of over 170 vehicles which follows the race arrives two hours in advance of the cyclists so will be expected at the Olympic Park at 12.55pm and at The Mall at 1.30pm.

 
 
 

Wimbledon Finals Weekend

The tournament comes to a close with what's likely to be a nail biting match.

Wimbledon: The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, Church Road, London, SW19 5AE

Tube: Wimbledon Park Station

 

Dates: 14th - 15th July 2018

 

Can Andy Murray do it again? The home crowd will be hoping he can and will be expecting to see the Scot in the finals again this year, defending the title he won in 2013, a year after he won Olympic gold. The Wimbledon Finals Weekend, a highlight of the sporting year in London, begins with the ladies' final on Saturday, followed by the men's match on Sunday, both played out on Centre Court, now covered by a roof so there's no risk of seeing Cliff Richard entertaining the crowds when the weather refuses to play ball. Tickets are like gold dust but anyone can get tickets via the ballot - enter before 15th December to be in with a chance.

 
 
 

Royal Opera: Maria Stuarda

Donizetti's opera on the life and death of Mary Queen of Scots and her cousin Queen Elizabeth I.

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

Tube: Covent Garden Station , Leicester Square Station

 

Dates: 05th - 18th July 2014

 

Joyce DiDonato takes on the starring role reprising her Maria Stuarda in a new Leiser, Caurier production at the Royal Opera House. The directors Moshe Leiser from Antwerp and Patrice Caurier from France have worked together for nearly 30 years and have become very much a brand-name. Bertrand De Billy conducts Donizetti's version of the life and death of Mary Queen of Scots and her cousin Queen Elizabeth I. Sung in Italian with English surtitles.

 
 
 
 

British Summer Time 2014: The Libertines

Pete Doherty and Carl Barat reunite with their band to headline their largest ever UK show.

Hyde Park, Rangers Lodge, London, W2 2UH

Tube: Knightsbridge Station

 

Dates: 05th July 2014

 

Pete Doherty and Carl Barat reunite with bandmates John and Gary as The Libertines reform to headline the Saturday night of the opening weekend at this year's British Summer Time at Hyde Park. Taking to the stage for their biggest ever UK show, this is a rare opportunity to see The Libertines perform live together - something they've only done a handful of times since they disbanded soon after their second LP was released in 2004. Preceding them on The Great Oak Stage are Irish punk folk heroes The Pogues, and revellers on Saturday 5th July will also see Spiritualized, Maximo Park, Wolf Alice, Swim Deep, and The Enemy perform. Other British Summer Time gigs include performances by the likes of Black Sabbath (4th July), McBusted (6th July), Neil Young (12th July) and Tom Jones who headlines on 13th July.

 
 
 

British Summer Time 2014: McBusted

Boy band supergroup McBusted headline on Sunday 6th July with the Backstreet Boys as special guests.

Hyde Park, Rangers Lodge, Hyde Park, London, W2 2UH

Tube: Knightsbridge Station

 

Dates: 06th July 2014

 

Boy band supergroup McBusted top the bill for this pop extravaganza in London's Hyde Park, with support from special guests Backstreet Boys. The line-up on Sunday 6th July also includes  The Vamps, Scouting For Girls and Diversity on the main stage, with Neon Jungle, Elyar Fox, and Ollie Marland in the Village Hall while The Cuban Brothers take over the Carnival stage.

 
 
 

Brasil Brasileiro

A Rio street carnival comes to Sadler's Wells this summer.

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

Tube: Angel Station

 

Dates: 08th - 27th July 2014

 

Thirty five performers from Rio De Janeiro bring a Rio street carnival to Sadler's Wells this summer. Brasil Brasileiro draws on the rich heritage of Brazilian dance forms - which merges African and European musical cultures to create the samba. Here samba is performed in all its forms - forro, capoeira, and batucada - to music from the live band in a show direccted by Claudio Segovia who has a proven track record, creating Broadway and West End hits including Tango Argentino and Black and Blue which was nominated for ten Tony Awards in 1989.

 
 
 

RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show

Specialists nurseries display their beautiful and complex works.

 

Henry VIII built one of the finest gardens in the world at Hampton Court Palace, so it is only fitting that the world's largest horticultural show should take place there. The Hampton Court Palace Flower Show includes displays from over 150 specialist nurseries. Some are beautiful, complex works of living art, filled with rare blooms and water features. However, many are on a smaller scale, and should give you ideas for improving your own garden. While show gardens compete for the RHS medals, the rose marquee is Britain's largest annual display of roses in full bloom; the sweet scent is overwhelming. The event opens with a special preview evening complete with fireworks and at the end of the show, on the final afternoon, many of the exhibitors sell off their plants at bargain prices - you can bet the gardening gloves come off for this free-for-all.

 
 
 

Robbie Williams

The Angels singer conclude his 2014 arena tour with two nights at The O2.

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

Tube: North Greenwich Station

 

Dates: 08th - 12th July 2014

 

Robbie Williams will conclude his 2014 arena tour with two nights at the O2 arena. The tour comes in support of his latest studio album, Swing Both Ways, which made chart history by becoming the 1,000th album to top the UK charts - 57-and-a-half years after Frank Sinatra's Songs For Swingin' Lovers became the UK's first ever number one. Swing Both Ways also saw Williams equal Elvis Presley's eleven number one albums.

 
 
 
 

Louis Kahn: The Power of Architecture

The Design Museum looks at one of the most influential architects of the 20th Century.

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

Tube: High Street Kensington Station

 

Dates: 09th July - 12th October 2014

 

Despite having died penniless and having built relatively little in his lifetime, Louis Kahn (1901-1974) remains one of the most influential architects of the 20th Century. His modernist philosophies and monumental buildings still inspire new generations of architects today, and works such as the Salk Institute in La Jolla, California (1959-65) and the National Assembly Building in Dhaka, Bangladesh (1962-83) are considered among the most important works of the last century. This Design Museum exhibition is a comprehensive look at Kahn's work, featuring architectural models, drawings, travel sketches, photographs and film footage shot by Kahn's son Nathanial, whose 2003 film 'My Architect' is an attempt to understand his father. A four-metre-tall replica of the City Tower in Philadelphia (1952-57) is also being constructed on site. Louis Kahn remains the architect's architect and the exhibition is accompanied by tributes from international stars including Frank Gehry, Renzo Piano, Peter Zumthor and Sou Fujimoto.

 
 
 

Royal Opera: La Boheme

Royal Opera House's ever-popular La boheme will be retired in 2015.

 

The Royal Opera House has announced that its ever-popular La boheme, performed close to 400 times since John Copley first introduced it in 1974, will be retired in 2015, to be replaced in 2017 by a new version directed by Richard Jones. So these 2014 performances give fans a final chance to see this production, considered one of Covent Garden's all-time greats, as Rodolfo the poet (played by Giuseppe Filianoti) and Mimi the seamstress (Ermonela Jaho) fall for each other by moonlight when their candles are blown out. This beginning promises all the fragile romance of a great love story and Puccini's indulgent score does not disappoint. Some lovely touches bring to life the spirited world of 19th century bohemian Paris, peppered with colourful characters, including a warmly funny rent-dodging interlude and the merry chorus of a street market. The late Julia Trevelyan Oman's period designs evoke the grimy streets, adding a faded glamour to the story. John Copley's 1974 production may have been revived countless times but its classic, evocative sets and beautiful, soaring music have earned it a place in Covent Garden history.

 
 
 

The Events

The Guardian's number 1 play of 2013 returns to the Young Vic this summer.

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

Tube: Southwark Station , Waterloo Station, Lambeth North Station

 

Dates: 10th July - 02nd August 2014

 

David Greig's "quiet, moving drama", chosen by Guardian theatre critic Lyn Gardner as the number 1 play of 2013, returns to the Young Vic this summer. Giving "a thoughtful and bruisingly honest attempt to understand the repercussions of a mass shooting" (The Guardian), The Events asks how far forgiveness will stretch in the face of atrocity. The 90-minute play, which won the 2013 Edinburgh Fringe First Award, features an on-stage choir and a soaring soundtrack. Set in an unnamed village where a young gunman walked into a local choir rehearsal and opened fire, the drama is a tale of tragedy, obsession and our destructive desire to fathom the unfathomable. "It's probably the finest, most important thing Greig has written", says Dominic Cavendish in the Telegraph. For a prolific playwright, noted for averaging almost five new plays per year, and whose recent projects include Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, that's high praise indeed.

 
 
 

Summerset House Summer Series

Chvrches, Bastille and Franz Ferdinand all perform at this year's festival.

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

Tube: Temple Station

 

Dates: 09th - 19th July 2020

 

Chvrches, Bastille, Kelis, Sam Smith, and Franz Ferdinand are just some of the live acts dropping into the central courtyard of Somerset House for this year's Summer Series. It's an idyllic, intimate, calming, escapist location for a concert on a summer's evening and as a breeze drifts in off the Thames you'll forget the city bustle outside and tune into some great music, surrounded by one of eighteenth century London's most spectacular buildings. London-based trio Daughter kicks the Summer Series off on Thursday 10th July while Little Dragon, the Swedish foursome anchored by the otherworldly vocals of front woman Yukimi Nagano, play the closing party on Sunday 20th July 2014. For detailed information on this year's festival go to our Somerset House Summer Series feature.

 
 
 

Virginia Woolf: Art, Life and Vision

Portraits, photographs, and rare material including a letter to Woolf's sister written shortly before her suicide.

National Portrait Gallery, St Martin's Place, London, WC2H 0HE

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

 

Dates: 10th July - 26th October 2014

 

A major exhibition on the life and career of Viriginia Woolf, fearless feminist and author of Mrs Dalloway, Orlando and To the Lighthouse, among others, comes to the National Portrait Gallery from 10th July. Guest curated by the biographer, Frances Spalding, the exhibition explores the life of the great 20th century writer through painted portraits, photographs, drawings and rare archival material, including a letter to Woolf's sister, Vanessa Bell, written shortly before her suicide. Highlights include work by her Bloomsbury Group peers, Vanessa Bell, Duncan Grant and Roger Fry, and photographs by Man Ray, and Beck and McGregor who photographed Woolf for Vogue.

 
 
 
 

Camden Lock Live

A one-day boutique festival with live music, street food and fashion.

 

After a successful launch in 2013, Camden Lock Live returns this summer for another day of live music and street food. The one-day boutique festival will host live performances across three stages, a programme of street entertainment and a hip hop dance workshops, providing the chance to learn hip hop moves to use in social situations. Performers include new talent Whinnie Williams, singer-songwriter Jake Isaac, rapper and singer Tigger Da Author, and guitar duo Youth Club. There will also be independent artisan shopping, art and craft designer stalls and street food from the likes of Mama's Jerk, Chick n Run, Pop Dogs, Smoke n Roll and Dutch Pancakes. BrewDog are the official beer partner and will be serving drinks from their bespoke bar by the waterside.

 
 
 

Balham Comedy Festival

Nine days of side splitting stand up to celebrate the Banana Cabaret comedy club.

The Bedford, 77 Bedford Hill, London, SW12 9HD

Tube: Balham Station

 

Dates: 11th - 19th July 2014

 

The Balham Comedy Festival returns for its third year in 2014, bringing nine days of side splitting stand up to The Bedford. The event celebrates 30 years of London comedy club Banana Cabaret with a programme of new and established artists, home grown and international. Confirmed acts so far include Milton Jones, Richard Herring, Robert Newman and Paul Daniels. Plus, a range of workshops hosted by John Moloney will give aspiring comedians the chance to try it out for themselves.

 
 
 

Ealing Comedy Festival

The likes of Milton Jones, Paul Chaudry and David Baddiel perform at this year's festival.

Walpole Park, Mattock Lane, London, W5 5BQ

Tube: Ealing Broadway Station

 

Dates: 17th - 24th July 2015

 

The annual Ealing Comedy Festival returns to Walpole Park in Ealing this July and is sure to feature another stellar line-up of comedy acts. The likes of Ed Byrne, Stephen K Amos, Alistair McGowan, Omid Djalili, Lee Mack and Sean Lock have all appeared over the last few year, making this one of the most renowned comedy festivals of the year. This year sees David Baddiel, Milton Jones, Shappi Khorsandi, Trevor Noah and Paul Chaudry all feature on the line-up. Running for five nights under the big top tent, the Comedy Festival is part of the Ealing Summer Festivals programme.

 
 
 

The Chap Olympiad

A celebration of buffoonery and sporting ineptitude.

Bedford Square Gardens, Bedford Square, Bloomsbury, London, WC1B 5BL

Tube: Russell Square Station , Holborn Station

 

Dates: 14th July 2018

 

Not so much a sporting occasion as a celebration of buffoonery and ineptitude, orchestrated by The Chap magazine for gentlemen (and gentlewomen) of good taste, The Chap Olympiad is a spiffing non-sporting event. Bedford Square Gardens, centred on one of the best preserved set pieces of Georgian architecture in London, is a fitting backdrop for such a distinguished gathering. All events can all be entered by members of the public - as long as they're not sporting sportswear. The Chap Olympiad celebrates its tenth anniversary in 2014 and will include all the usual zany showdowns, including Umbrella Jousting, using bicycles and brollies instead of horses and lances, and the Tug of Hair in which a rope is substituted for a lengthy handlebar moustache. Yikes! There will of course also be sandwiches and lashings of Pimm's.

 
 
 

British Summer Time 2014: Neil Young

The influential Canadian singer-songwriter tops the bill for this Saturday 12th July Hyde Park concert.

Hyde Park, Rangers Lodge, Hyde Park, London, W2 2UH

Tube: Knightsbridge Station

 

Dates: 12th July 2014

 

Neil Young and Crazy Horse top the bill for this rock and pop extravaganza in London's Hyde Park, with support from Brooklyn-based band The National, Tom Odell, Caitlin Rose, Phosphorescent and Flyte. Neil Young's influence in rock and roll history is still felt today. His second studio album, 1969's 'Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere', has been described as "one of the groundbreaking albums of alternative rock", and "a blueprint for so much of what has followed over the last 45 years". Relative newcomer, British singer-songwriter Tom Odell, is riding high at the moment, playing at the 2013 Somerset House Summer Series and appearing on The X Factor final alongside The Killers and Sir Elton John.

 
 
 
 

The British 10K London Run

This huge annual fundraiser aims to recruit between 1914 and 1918 runners to mark WWI.

Hyde Park Corner Tube, Knightsbridge, Belgravia, London, SW1X 7TA

Tube: Hyde Park Corner Station

 

Dates: 15th July 2018

 

Now in its 14th year, this huge annual fundraiser - which is expected to attract 30,000 runners - has made the second Sunday in July all its own. The runners attempting the 10K are joined by a bunch of celebrities and athletics champions and in 2014, the 100th anniversary of the start of WWI, The British 10K race has chosen Help For Heroes as the official charity of the race. The aim is to recruit between 1914 and 1918 runners - the period of WWI to raise funds for todays wounded heroes. Starting on Piccadilly outside the Calvary & Guards Club at Hyde Park Corner the course heads down Piccadilly and Pall Mall to Trafalgar Square, along the Embankment to the City, taking in St Paul's and Tower Bridge, and finally back to Whitehall, taking in the Cenotaph - the nations national memorial to those who lost their lives in WWI and other conflicts - on the way.

 
 
 

Shelagh Wakely

A rare opportunity to encounter works by late British artist Shelagh Wakely.

Camden Arts Centre, Arkwright Road, London, NW3 6DH

Tube: Finchley Road Station

 

Dates: 13th July - 28th September 2014

 

Taking place throughout all the galleries of the Camden Arts Centre, this major exhibition provides a rare opportunity to encounter works by late British artist Shelagh Wakely. Known for combining visual art, architecture and design in an original and personal way, Wakely succeeded in transforming simple images and forms into myriad meanings and associations. The exhibition has been developed with her friend and collaborator, Brazilian artist Tunga and will include print, video, unfired ceramics, a series of pencil and wire drawings, and an intricate floor installation. There will also be a display of works by a younger generation of artists who have taken inspiration from Wakely's legacy.

 
 
 

Bastille Day Festival

London celebrates France's national day.

Borough Market, Southwark Street, Bankside, London, SE1 1TL

Tube: London Bridge Station , Borough Station

 

Dates: 10th July 2016

 

Bastille Day, 14th July, falls on a Monday this year so London celebrates France's national day with a free festival on Sunday 13th. Taking place at Borough Market and the surrounding streets, the Bastille Day Festival, a celebration of all things French, gives us Londoners an excuse to enjoy the culinary heritage of our French friends (yum) through tastings and a French themed demonstration kitchen. A fun filled programme of activities includes street entertainment, a traditional 14th July Waiters' Race, Petanque, an artisan craft market selling gifts and books, creative workshops, party games, bi-lingual storytelling, face painting and (back to what the French do best) gastronomic film screenings, from the Kings of Pastry to Ratatouille. The party continues into the night with live music, DJs, theatricalities, dancing and singing until 10pm.

 
 
 

British Summer Time 2014: Tom Jones

Sir Tom Jones headlines a family-oriented concert in Hyde Park.

Hyde Park, Rangers Lodge, London, W2 2UH

Tube: Knightsbridge Station

 

Dates: 13th July 2014

 

Enduringly popular Welsh singer Sir Tom Jones, who has gained a new fan base as a judge on the BBC talent search The Voice, headlines this family-oriented concert also featuring Boyzone, Little Mix, 10cc and The Bootleg Beatles. With an illustrious history, stretching way back to the 1960s, Tom Jones has gained fans across the generations with smash hits 'It's Not Unusual' and 'Kiss'. Acts for children to enjoy include Horrible Histories who'll be presenting the terrible truth about Loathsome London and Horrid Hyde Park, Shaun The Sheep and the Go! Go! Go! Show.

 
 
 

Medea

Helen McCrory stars in the title role in Carrie Cracknell's production for the National Theatre.

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

Tube: Embankment Underground Station

 

Dates: 14th July - 04th September 2014

 

Helen McCrory stars in the title role in Carrie Cracknell's production of Medea, the Euripides' tragedy, adapted by Ben Power for the National Theatre. Medea is faced with separation from the children she has had for her husband, who has abandoned her and so enacts a dreadful revenge. Director Carrie Cracknell had a hit earlier in the year at the National Theatre's Shed with Blurred Lines, and last year she not only made her West End debut with A Doll's House but also directed her first opera, a well-received Wozzeck for ENO. McCrory, who has appeared in The Queen, Skyfall and the Harry Potter franchise, has been seen regularly on the London stage including a recent appearance in 'The Last of the Haussmans' at the National two years ago prompting Michael Billington to write, "it is Helen McCrory who really carries the evening".

 
 
 
 

BP Big Screen: The Royal Opera: La Boheme

La boheme is broadcast live from the Royal Opera House to Trafalgar Square.

Trafalgar Square, Central, London, WC2N 5DS

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

 

Dates: 10th June 2015

 

One of three free summer screenings broadcast live from the Royal Opera House, on 15th July 21014 La boheme is beamed from Covent Garden to the big screen on Trafalgar Square. The Opera House's ever-popular La boheme, performed close to 400 times since John Copley first introduced it in 1974, will be retired in 2015, to be replaced in 2017 by a new version directed by Richard Jones. So this screening is a final chance to see this production, considered one of Covent Garden's all-time greats, as Rodolfo the poet (played by Giuseppe Filianoti) and Mimi the seamstress (Ermonela Jaho) fall for each other by moonlight.

 
 
 

Kew the Music

Marc Almond and Melanie C are Jools Holland's special guest stars.

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

Tube: Kew Gardens Station

 

Dates: 10th - 15th July 2018

 

Elvis Costello, Simple Minds and Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra are all on the Kew the Music line-up when it returns for summer 2014 this July. Marc Almond and Melanie C appear as a special guest stars with Jools Holland on Friday 18th July while Bill Bailey and tribute band Bjorn Again also play at the six-day festival - a series of outdoor picnic concerts set against the backdrop of the Victorian Temperate House at Kew Gardens. In previous years these concerts have proved to be a great success with the likes of Blondie, Paul Weller, Status Quo, James Morrison and Gipsy Kings playing. For the ultimate package there is also the option to VIP your evening with picnic hampers, a BBQ at the Pavilion Restaurant and reserved seating.

 
 
 

Malevich

Major retrospective on the leading pioneer of abstract art in Russia at Tate Modern.

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

Tube: Blackfriars Underground Station

 

Dates: 16th July - 26th October 2014

 

A major retrospective of Kazimir Malevich, leading pioneer of abstract art in Russia whose work was banned in the Soviet Union in the Thirties, opens at Tate Modern this July. The exhibition is described as "unprecedented in its scope" with some 500 works on display promising to "shed new light" on Malevich's career. Kiev-born Malevich was a key figure in abstract art and a succession of avant-garde movements in the early half of the 20th century. His style of severe geometric abstraction, which he called Suprematism, was a precursor to the development of Constructivism. The exhibition, which was first shown at the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam, is the largest Malevich retrospective in 25 years and "could prove as uplifting as late Rembrandt", according to The Spectator who included this in their list of 'Art shows you simply mustn't miss in 2014'.

 
 
 

The Gershwins' Porgy and Bess

Listen to the poignantly beautiful 'Summertime' in Regent's Park's leafy outdoor theatre.

Open Air Theatre, Regent's Park, Inner Circle, Regent's Park, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4NR

Tube: Regent's Park Station

 

Dates: 17th July - 23rd August 2014

 

George and Ira Gershwin's toe-tapping musical set in America's Deep South. Porgy and Bess tells the story of crippled beggar Porgy and his labour of love to tame the wild Bess and save her from a life of ruin. Can Bess successfully shake off her past? Or will temptation get the better of her? Includes songs such as 'Summertime', 'It Ain't Necessarily So' and 'I Got Plenty o' Nuttin''.

 
 
 

Lovebox

London's best festival is back in 2014 with a new format.

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

Tube: Mile End Station

 

Dates: 18th - 19th July 2014

 

London's answer to Glastonbury is back for 2014 with a new format. This year Lovebox is being joined by Secret Productions, co-organisers of Wilderness Festival and Secret Garden Party from 2009 to 2013, for a true celebration of festival culture. The Lovebox Weekender is the park party that comes closest to capturing the vibe of a proper festival, with a huge range of musical styles across multiple stages and a friendly, music-loving crowd. Vicky Park is a great festival venue, with loads of space and a sympathetic council who let them turn the music up really loud. Running on Friday and Saturday, each day will have its own distinct musical identity. While this year's line-up has yet to be announced, last year's bill - which included Azealia Banks, Rudimental Jurassic 5, Plan B, Goldfrapp, and Lil' Kim - gives you an idea of the calibre of the musical acts the festival attracts.

 
 
 
 

The BBC Proms 2014

The world famous Proms features a varied but accessible programme of 100 concerts.

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

Tube: South Kensington Station

 

Dates: 17th July - 12th September 2020

 

Held yearly at the Royal Albert Hall, the Proms is arguably the most popular season of classical music the world over, featuring a varied but accessible programme of 100 concerts, concluding on the fabled last night where seas of Union flag-waving Brits belt out classics such as Jerusalem and the national anthem. The aim, for the past 100 years, has been to mix the popular and familiar with the surprising and innovative, so if you go to a concert to hear some favourite piece, you may leave having discovered a whole new composer (recent years have even included Doctor Who- and Wallace & Gromit-themed Proms). Between 500 and 1,400 standing tickets are available for each Prom on the door for just five pounds, so top international orchestras and soloists, programmes that mix the adventurous and the accessible, and a real sense of fun can all be had for half the price of a central London cinema ticket. There are also chamber music concerts and Saturday matinees in nearby Cadogan Hall and outdoor events throughout the country. The world-famous Last Night of the Proms brings everything to a thrilling finale - and tickets are like gold dust. Alternatively, join Terry Wogan and thousands of revellers in the annual Proms in the Park closing party in Hyde Park. This year's season launches on 24th April and booking opens 17th May 2014.

 
 
 

Alice's Adventures in Wonderland

A family opera based on Lewis Carroll's magical adventure.

Holland Park Theatre, Holland Park, Holland Park, London, W8 6LU

Tube: Kensington (Olympia) Station

 

Dates: 19th July - 02nd August 2014

 

A highlight of Opera Holland Park in 2013, the specially commissioned family opera based on Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, with music by Will Todd, is revived this year. After the huge success of The Fantastic Mr Fox - staged as part of the opera festival for three consecutive years - this summer sees the return of the hour-long family opera, a site-specific production directed by Martin Duncan, designed by Leslie Travers and conducted by Stuart Stratford. Let's hope last year's strong cast, led by Fflur Wyn as Alice, returns. Tickets are only £3 for children and £8 for adults.

 
 
 

Holy Warriors

The premiere of a new drama by 'In Basildon' playwright David Eldridge at Shakespeare's Globe.

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

Tube: Mansion House Station

 

Dates: 19th July - 24th August 2014

 

Premiering at the Globe on 19th July 2014, David Eldridge's Holy Warriors is a story of holy war and bloody revenge in the struggle for Jerusalem over two millennia of conflict. Directed by James Dacre, the tale takes in the crusade conflict between Christian King Richard the Lionheart and the Muslim leader Saladin, the Romans capturing Jerusalem, and Hamas militants exploding suicide bombs on buses. The play by Eldridge, the playwright behind 'In Basildon', is one of four new plays at Shakespeare's Globe in 2014, alongside works by Richard Bean, Howard Brenton, David Eldridge and poet Simon Armitage who has written The Last Days of Troy based on Homer's Iliad.

 
 
 

First World War Galleries

Following a 6-month closure, IWM London re-opens with new permanent First World War Galleries.

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

Tube: Lambeth North Station

 

Dates: 19th July - 31st December 2015

 

Visitors will discover the story of the First World War when IWM London re-opens on 19th July 2014 with new permanent First World War Galleries where visitors can discover the story of the war, how it started, why it continued, how it was won and its global impact. The exhibition, staged to mark the start of the Centenary of the First World War, looks at the lives of those who experienced it on the front line and the home front and includes a recreated trench with a Sopwith Camel fighter plane swooping low overhead and a Mark V tank looming above. Visitors are immersed in trench live through periscopes, a dug-out, soundscape and projection showing what daily life was like for the troops just behind the front line on the Western Front.

 
 
 

Truth and Memory: British Art of the First World War

British First World War art by some of Britain's most important artists of the twentieth century.

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

Tube: Lambeth North Station

 

Dates: 19th July - 08th March 2015

 

The first major retrospective of British First World War art for almost 100 years, featuring 110 paintings, sculptures and drawings by artists such as Paul Nash, Eric Kennington and CRW Nevinson - some of Britain's most important artists of the twentieth century. Key commissioned paintings, such as Wyndham Lewis's A Battery Shelled, will be displayed alongside important sculptural works like Jacob Epstein's The Tin Hat and Eric Kennington's studies for his Soissons Memorial to the Missing. This exhibition, titled Truth and Memory at the Imperial War Museum, will be part of the First World War cetenary commemorations.

 
 
 
 

Lambeth Country Show

The South London country show celebrates its 40th anniversary year in 2014.

Brockwell Park, Norwood Road, London, SE24 0PA

Tube: Brixton Station

 

Dates: 21st - 22nd July 2018

 

The countryside comes to South London for a weekend, cows and all, as the leafy expanse of Brockwell Park welcomes herds of hairy visitors, accompanied by brilliant live music. The annual Lambeth Country Show is a weird and very entertaining mixture: city kids get to soak up a taste of rural England - falconry shows, jousting, sheep dog displays, a fruit and veg competition, steam engines and the like - then restore their urban cool with two days of top ska, soul and reggae with music from some of Brixton's finest soundsystems. Local acts feature on the main stage while over on the Village Green stage you'll find acoustic and folk music followed by some jazz and classical groups. A fantastic free family festival and a tribute to the enduring spirit of London's liveliest borough.

 
 
 

Cubania

Carlos Acosta's self-curated programme of works inspired by his home country of Cuba.

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

Tube: Covent Garden Station , Leicester Square Station

 

Dates: 21st - 23rd July 2014

 

Carlos Acosta presents this self-curated programme of works inspired by his home country of Cuba, uniting performers from The Royal Ballet, Rambert, Cuban National Ballet and Danza Contemporanea de Cuba who return to the UK for their debut appearance on the Royal Opera House main stage. Cubania features 'Tocororo Suite', a semi-autobiographical piece; the high speed and energetic 'La Ecuacion' by George Cespedes; and Russell Maliphant's striking solo 'Flux' performed by acclaimed Cuban dancer Alexander Varona.

 
 
 

A Streetcar Named Desire

Gillian Anderson stars as Blanche DuBois in Tennessee Williams' classic 1947 drama.

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

Tube: Southwark Station , Waterloo Station, Lambeth North Station

 

Dates: 23rd July - 19th September 2014

 

Gillian Anderson plays Blanche DuBois in a Young Vic staging of Tennessee Williams' classic 1947 play this summer. The drama begins as Blanche arrives to stay with her sister Stella and her husband, Stanley, after being evicted from her own home. The insecure ageing Southern belle soon clashes with the earthy Stanley, with sexual tension reaching boiling point. Tickets have already sold out and it's no surprise given the star billing. Gillian Anderson, best known as Special Agent Dana Scully to fans of the The X-Files as Blanche, has won accolades for her roles on stage and screen including a recent performance in BBC 2's psychological thriller, The Fall. Benedict Andrews, "the kind of director who ruffles feathers" (The Guardian), won the 2012 Critics' Circle Best Director Award for Three Sisters and this latest production is expected to be one of the most talked about shows of the year.

 
 
 

Designing A Moment: The London 2012 Cauldron

Thomas Heatherwick's Olympic Cauldron goes on public display for the first time since the 2012 Games.

Museum of London, 150 Wall, London, EC2Y 5HN

Tube: Barbican Station , St. Paul's Station

 

Dates: 25th July - 31st December 2015

 

A new pavilion gallery has been built in the courtyard of the Museum of London to house the Cauldron designed by Thomas Heatherwick for the 2012 London Olympics which became such an iconic symbol of the Games. Designing A Moment: The London 2012 Cauldron is a permanent gallery, opened on the second anniversary of the London 2012 Olympic Opening Ceremony, which is dedicated to the construction of Thomas Heatherwick's copper Cauldron. It shows the design and construction through a series of films, footage of the ceremonies, photographs, drawings and test pieces.

 
 
 

Buckingham Palace Summer Opening

See the lavish interiors of the principal royal residence in London.

Buckingham Palace , Buckingham Palace Road, London, SW1A 1AA

Tube: Victoria Station

 

Dates: 25th July - 04th October 2020

 

Every summer inquisitive visitors get the chance to look round Buckingham Palace and admire the interiors of the principal royal residence. Visitors for the Summer Opening tour are permitted access to the nineteen State Rooms which are still used by the Royal Family to receive and entertain guests on state and ceremonial occasions. Decorated in lavish fashion, they include paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens and Canaletto, Sevres porcelain and some of the finest English and French furniture in the world. There are also some exquisite royal gifts, including Faberge Eggs, on display. This is a fascinating opportunity to admire the taste - often wonderful, sometimes comically bad - of Britain's monarchy.

 
 
 
 

Camden Beach

Roundhouse, Chalk Farm Road, London, NW1 8EH

Tube: Chalk Farm Station

 

Dates: 15th July - 28th August 2017

 

Camden's seaside resort returns to the Roundhouse terrace, ideal for Londoners who like nothing better than a staycation. The Camden Beach is made up of 150 tonnes of sand, a tiki hut, pork BBQ bar, pop up fish restaurant, rooftop garden, swimming pool, ping-pong and much more, bringing the beach to London for the summer.

 
 
 

Walthamstow Garden Party

Head to Walthamstow for a weekend of cinema, music, theatre, and live music.

Lloyd Park, Forest Road, London, E17 4JF

Tube: Walthamstow Central Station

 

Dates: 13th - 14th July 2019

 

Two days of cinema, music, theatre, arts and crafts, the Walthamstow Garden Party is a special one-off free festival weekend in Lloyd Park, with events in the nearby William Morris Gallery and the Assembly Hall. There will be two music stages, showcasing international and local artists - including African reggae powerhouse Tiken Jah Fakoly - a theatre and dance stage, pop-up performances, interactive family fun and a dedicated street food, craft beer and picnic area. All brought to you by Barbican, Create London, the London Borough of Waltham Forest and Real Food Festivals - the same team that collaborated to create Open East. A screening of Alfred Hitchcock's silent film 'Blackmail' at the Walthamstow Assembly Hall opens the festival, supplemented by a pre screening line up of street food trucks serving up East End themed food. Sadly, soul legend Bobby Womack who was due to headline the festival died just weeks before the event.

 
 
 

Camden Fringe

Over 180 different productions and (some very odd) shows across 17 venues in north London.

 

Dates: 29th July - 25th August 2019

 

Bringing together comedy, theatre, poetry, dance and much more, the Camden Fringe boasts over 180 different productions and (some very odd) shows across 17 venues in north London borough throughout from 28th July to 24th August 2014. Whether you want to catch some of the edgiest stand-up around or witness a new twist on Shakespeare or watch a group of OAPs rap, the Camden Fringe has become the metaphorical David, ready "to challenge the Edinburgh Goliath" (The Guardian). Now in its ninth year, this rapidly growing four-week festival is offering fresh opportunity for both new and established acts to get themselves noticed in a creative environment outside Edinburgh. Rather than being centred around the High Street venues cover the whole borough of Camden, from Upstairs at the Gatehouse in Highgate Village to the Tristan Bates Theatre in Covent Garden and include the Etcetera Theatre - where the first Camden Fringe took place in 2006.

 
 
 

Sylvie Guillem & Russell Maliphant: PUSH

An award-winning four-week programme of solos and duets.

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: 29th July - 03rd August 2014

 

Choreographed by Russel Maliphant and performed by Maliphant and the French-born dancer, Sylvie Guillem, PUSH has been seen by audiences around the world and won four major awards since debuting in 2005. Now appearing at the London Coliseum PUSH is a four-work programme consisting of solos and duets. It combines Maliphant's beautiful choreography and Guillem's classical and contemporary techniques. She shows off her signature high extensions and whips off perfectly-executed pirouettes in Solo before Maliphant takes to the stage to play with his own looming dancing shadows in Shift. It's back to Guillem for Two, a dance trapped in a box of light, and then the piece de resistance Push, which fuses their bodies together in a sensual pas de deux of poetic strength and taut, feather-light touch. The image of Guillem 'falling' from Maliphant's shoulders is at the heart of the piece as is the electrifying connection between these two huge talents.

 
 
 

Rhythm of the Dance

19 dancers, 3 singers, and 5 musicians bring the art of Irish dancing to the stage.

New Wimbledon Theatre, The Broadway, London, SW19 1QG

Tube: Wimbledon Station

 

Dates: 29th - 30th July 2014

 

A celebration of the rich history of Ireland and the art and evolution of Irish dance, Rhythm of the Dance features a cast of 19 dancers, 3 singers, and The Young Irish Tenors - the five musicians on stage - most of whom have been performing since they were four or five years old. The dancers are led by Marty McKay, who also danced in Michael Flatley's Lord of the Dance, in a showcase of the art of Irish dance. Seen by over 4.8 million people in 59 countries, the show has travelled to the United States, China and Russia over the past 15 years but has rarely visited the UK.

 
 
 
 

Danny Boyle's SHUFFLE Festival

Six-day film festival which takes place in and around Tower Hamlets' Cemetery Park.

Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, The Soanes Centre, Southern Grove, London, E3 4PX

Tube: Mile End Station

 

Dates: 26th - 27th August 2017

 

Film director and local resident Danny Boyle has backed this six-day film festival which takes place in and around Tower Hamlets' Cemetery Park. Following the success of the first Shuffle Festival last summer - when Jarvis Cocker, Mark Kermode, and Brian Cox were among the guests - Shuffle returns with a new short film prize offering the winning young filmmaker a mentoring session with Danny Boyle (the film director behind Slumdog Millionaire, Trainspotting, Shallow Grave, and the Opening Ceremony of the 2012 London Olympics). The programme of films is the centrepiece of the festival, born out of the Community Land Trust which provides sustainable housing in urban areas, but the programme also features street food, a science fete, comedy, music, performance art, and urban installations... they're even painting a street pink for the occasion. It's "the most fun anyone can have in a graveyard in Mile End," says Danny Boyle, "so please do come on by."

 
 
 

My Night With Reg

The first major revival of playwright Kevin Elyot's award-winning comedy, staged the month after his passing.

The Donmar Warehouse, 41 Earlham Street, Seven Dials, London, WC2H 9LD

Tube: Covent Garden Station , Leicester Square Station, Tottenham Court Road Station

 

Dates: 31st July - 27th September 2014

 

This 20th anniversary revival of playwright Kevin Elyot's award-winning comedy has added poignancy being revived the month after he died. For the 20th anniversary of Elyot's Olivier and Evening Standard award-winning comedy, My Night With Reg, rising star Robert Hastie directs the first major revival of the play, a "sharply witty and humanely wise drama about gay manners and morals in the age of Aids" according to The Independent review of 1994, when the play was first staged at the Theatre Upstairs, Royal Court. Described as "the best acted production now on in London" by The Independent back in 1994, and one of "the best new plays of the past decade" by The Guardian in 2002, the plot centres on Guy who is hosting a party for new friends and old alike during the summer of 1985, but the world as Guy et al see it, is going to change forever. The cast features Matt Bardock (plyaing Benny) and Jonathan Broadbent who makes his Donmar debut as Guy.

 
 
 

IN THIS ARTICLE

 

RELATED ARTICLES

 
 
 
SALE London Hotels

From cheap budget places to stay to luxury 5 star suites see our discounts for hotels, including from 0% off.

 
 
Call now: hotel deals 0207 420 4960