things to do in London – The Cultural Exposé

That time I discovered high culture on my doorstep: Investec Opera Holland Park London

Matilda — Sun, 04 Jun 2017 19:52:31 +0000

A funny thing happened last year. I was at home, minding my own business, when I received an out of the blue e-mail inviting me to get involved with a local project in my old neighbourhood. Can’t say I’d been one for extra-curricular activities in Kensington, but it turns out, the ‘local project’ was Opera Holland Park – an annual season of affordable outdoor productions in one of the loveliest parks in west London. Seriously: if you haven’t hung out in Holland Park yet – home to wandering peacocks, a giant chess board and an idyllic Japanese garden – you should get that on the bucket list, stat.

I ended up seeing a performance of a 19th-century Russian opera called Queen of Spades, and as morbid as it was, watching it under a canopy on a mild summer eve was one for the best night outs I’d had in a while. And I’m not even into opera!

The 2017 season just kicked off and runs until 29th July – so if you’re looking for something different to do this summer, this is a great shout. Check out my experience of last year’s event below:

The Performance

Behind The Scenes

Find out more about Investec Opera Holland Park.

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TCé picks: A selection of things to do and places to go – June 2013

Nori Bell-Bhuiyan — Fri, 31 May 2013 10:00:49 +0000

Arts & Culture

Spring Loaded – James Cousins + Robert Clark + James Wilton at the Place, June 5th – Set to be an amazing night of performance, this triple-billed show from three of the most innovative contemporary dance artists will examine powerful human themes of fear, fate and love.

Eat & Drink

The Paradise School of Grub, June 6-25th – If you’ve been telling yourself for years that you really ‘will learn to cook’, then now’s the time to do it, as gastropub Paradise launches their summer school of cooking classes hosted by the exciting new chefs of British cuisine.

Alternative

Sonic Celluloid presents… a Daft Punk double bill at The Roxy Bar and Screen, June 7th – Electronic music duo Daft Punk make their film debut with the energetic double billing of Electrorama (a robot road trip set in the Californian desert) and Interstella 5555 (an intergalactic anime soundtracked to Daft Punk’s album Discovery). Get set for a night unlike any other… with great music.

Arts & Culture

Sadler’s Sampled, June 22nd – July 7th – “Free your mind and dance will follow” is the tagline of Sadler’s Sampled, a two-week dance festival with everything from hip-hop and contemporary dance to ballet and tango – and that’s just on one day!

Arts & Culture

Falling Up by Mimre at Jackson’s Lane – June 19th – All-female theatre company Mimre’s Falling Up is a dynamic promenade performance that combines theatre, dance and acrobatics and tell the stories of four different women and what makes them who they are.

Cinema

British Animation Film Festival at Rich Mix, June 23rd – Setting out to celebrate everything animated, this one-day festival dedicated to sharing the best of British and international animated films will contain every kind of animation, from hand-drawn shorts to 3D animation, and subject matter that varies from funny, to melancholy to just plain bizarre!

Best bits from last month

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What we’ve been up to… cheering at the London Marathon 2013

Matilda — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 10:00:23 +0000

In light of last week’s Boston bombings, this year’s London Marathon took on a whole new meaning, giving runners in the capital an opportunity to show solidarity to remember those affected. A 30 second silence was held at the start of the race, before 36,000 runners began the 26.2 mile challenge, watched by a reported 700,000 spectators (a record!) who lined the streets at various points along the course. As a member of Run Dem Crew, I made a beeline for Mile 21 – between Westferry and Limehouse – where “cheerdemcrew” members set up camp to support everyone who hit this milestone. With great weather and plenty of amusing costumes to spot, it was a joyous occasion, so check out some of the pics from the day, just below:

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TCé picks: A selection of things to do and places to go – February 2013

Matilda — Fri, 01 Feb 2013 11:00:23 +0000

As far as we’re concerned, February is the official start of the culture calendar – so we’re happy that this month has quite a few entertaining going-ons in store, from charity danceathons to an opportunity to go to your very own prom. Plus, tune into the site later for an announcement of a brilliant competition courtesy of our generous friends over at the Roxy Bar & Cinema…

Music

Ali Shaheed Muhammad at Jazz Cafe, February 1st – The former member of the pioneering A Tribe Called Quest drops into Camden for a Friday night party for lovers of hip-hop, R&B and soul.

Alternative

Meet Mutsa danceathon, February 9th – This fun and quirky social activist has been doing her part in London to raise awareness of the HIV pandemic in sub-saharan Africa through educational projects, and her latest event sees her organise an international danceathon fundraiser in London and New York City. One of the teachers who’ll be putting participants through their paces is Zoo Nation choreographer Kate Prince (Into the Hoods, Some Like It Hip-Hop), so you’ll know this will be brilliant (and all for a good cause!).

Cinema

Future Cinema presents Casablanca, February 14th – March 3th – The creators of Secret Cinema will be presenting the iconic Casablanca, where you’ll step into the world of Rick’s American Café at the Troxy which will be transformed into the famous, exclusive and romantic nightclub. Immersive cinema at its finest.

Alternative

Teen Dreams Prom at The Book Club, February 14 – Ever wondered what it’d be like to go to prom? Wonder no more on Valentine’s Day as The Book Club are throwing a fancy dress knees-up for couples and friends to experience prom first hand. There will be games, American food and even a final crowning of Prom King and Queen.

Arts & Culture

Lichtenstein: A Retrospective at Tate Modern, February 21st – May 27th – Roy Lichtenstein is one of the leading figures of American Pop art, and this show brings together 125 of his most definitive paintings and sculptures.

Best bits from last month

Something You Should See… Light Show, Hayward Gallery

What we’ve been up to… Patty & Bun

Something you should see… 35 mm: A Musical Exhibition

Send us your “selfies” and win places on a Culture Club Photography Workshop!

Something you should see… Feast at the Young Vic

Something you should see… One Monkey Don’t Stop No Show

Somewhere you should eat… The Shed

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TCé picks: A selection of things to do and places to go – January 2013

The Cultural Exposé — Tue, 01 Jan 2013 11:00:44 +0000

Happy New Year everyone! After a lovely Christmas break in Portugal, we’re back in search of anything and everything that’ll distract us from the miserable weather we’ve returned to and any reminders about heading back to the 9-5 next week- so with all that in mind, we’re thinking the top of 2013 isn’t look half-bad, if we say so ourselves…

Arts & Culture

One Monkey Don’t Stop No Show at Tricycle Theatre, January 16th – February 9th – Originally written by a leading figure in the Black Arts Movement, One Monkey Don’t Stop No Show is restored by Sheffield’s Eclipse Theatre Company. Having received critical acclaim in its earlier tours, its visit to London in January promises to be side-splittingly funny.

Alternative

Totally Serialised: TV Series Festival at Cine Lumiere, January 16-20th 2013 – The only TV series festival in the country returns for an entertaining weekend of favourite shows and never-before-seen exclusives.

Eat & Drink

BRGR.Co, 187 Wardour Street – Diet, schmiet – this month, we’re indulging in even more burgers at this new gourmet Soho haunt that’s come over from Lebanon and has been enjoying a roaring trade for the past month.

Arts & Culture

London International Mime Festival at the Royal Opera House, January 16-26 2013 – Since 1977, this fest has been honouring the remarkable circus art of miming through innovative puppetry and theatre – expect this and more mid-January, where 15 international productions descend onto the ROH.

Alternative

In the Beginning Was The End at Somerset House, January 20th – March 30th 2013 – This special blend of film, installation and live performance explores a world either on the verge of collapse – or the brink of rebirth. With their new gargantuan production, inspired by Leonardo Da Vinci and The Book of Revelation and utilising some avant-garde stage production, Dreamthinkspeak promise a journey through underground passages, the undiscovered nooks and crannies of Somerset House and require you take your life into your hand.

Best bits from last month

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TCé picks: A selection of things to do and places to go – December 2012

The Cultural Exposé — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 11:00:02 +0000

It’s the final month of 2012 and the Christmas holidays will be soon upon us – yes! – but until then, enjoy the last few cultural happenings going down around town…

Arts & Culture

Mydidae at Soho Theatre, December 5th – 22nd – Mydidae is a new play presented by Bafta award-winning Jack Thorne, exploring the challenges of modern life. In this case, a bathroom is the setting for the story of a young couple reflecting on a personal tragedy a year on, and promises to be an honest portrayal of reality that will both challenge and entertain.

Eat & Drink

FEAST London, December 6th -9th – A Victorian sorting office in Islington will be transformed into the ultimate foodie destination with a Christmas twist. Handpicked outlets include HIX, Mishkin’s, Ceviche, Big Apple Hot Dogs and Lily Vanilli.

Arts & Culture

Unexpected Pleasures at Design Museum – December 5th – March 3rd 2013 – The work of contemporary jewellers is celebrated in this unique show, which will present almost 200 of the most unconventional and outstanding objects, designs and adorenments. Prominent UK and international jewellers featured include Wendy Ramshaw, Hans Stofer, Gijs Bakker and Dorothea Pruhl.

Cinema

Film in Space at Camden Arts Centre, 15 December 2012 – 24 February 2013 – This group exhibition curated by filmmaker Guy Sherwin pays homage to the 1970s expanded cinema film movement, and will feature a number of seminal works from the period as well as flicks from up and coming artists.

Alternative

Fuerzabruta at the Roundhouse, December 27th – January 26th 2013 – This mind-blowing show that rocked the Roundhouse in ’06 is back for a 4-week run to once again amaze the masses with incredible visual effects.

Best bits from last month

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Somewhere You Should Go…Vista Bar

Lucy Palmer — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 11:00:14 +0000

It’s easy to think of Trafalgar Square as an area reserved for tourists and pigeons but near the museums and art galleries is The Trafalgar Hotel which hides the beautiful Vista Bar, a stunning open air rooftop bar with views of the Square, Big Ben, London Eye and the Thames.

As central London’s largest rooftop bar, if you’re for looking for somewhere a bit special – perhaps for a date or celebration – just take the lift up to the sixth floor and stop by for a drink. Fitting in with the impressive surroundings is a drinks menu which of course features champagne and cocktails (though the usual bar drinks are all available). My favourite was the Gin Mary, a Bloody Mary given an update with bacon (!) infused gin. It gives it an extra kick that somehow works and makes you wonder why more drinks don’t have bacon added to them.

It’s certainly not the cheapest bar in the capital but considering the location it is the perfect place if you’re looking for something special and areas can be hired making it great for a birthday celebration. As for food, the menu is a relaxed mix of nibbly bits, salads and snacks perfect for picking and even includes caviar if you really want to go all out.

Despite the chilly winter months ahead, Vista plans to cover the roof and put on extra heating for comfort, so it’ll be worth the visit – just note it gets busy and is often used for private events – plus there’s a £5 entry charge after 4pm, though they do donate a £1 to charity. (Words: Lucy Palmer)

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Something you should see… In The Beginning was the End at Somerset House

Ed Spencer — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 11:00:01 +0000

Depending on what you’ve read or what translation you consult, come the eve of December 21st we may be reaching for our nearest and dearest and preparing ourselves for the afterlife. Yes, the longest day creeps ever closer and with it the end of the Mayan calendar (yet some people have the audacity to plan for 2013. Are they mad?). In any case, the more optimistic reading of this arcane calendar is that the date in question marks the end of an era, and rather than a total wipe-out, it may be a brave new world come the 22nd. This sticky subject is tackled by Dreamthinkspeak – – the much lauded site-responsive theatre company – who’ll be returning to Somerset House in the New Year for In the Beginning was the End, a special blend of film, installation and live performance that explores a world either on the verge of collapse – or the brink of rebirth. Let’s hope we’re still here to enjoy this cultural discussion.

If you’re not familiar with Dreamthinkspeak, they have been around since 1999 mesmerising audiences with their site specific performances. This ensemble of actors, technicians and assorted creatives meld different mediums to create an all immersive journey for the audience, making them winners of the Peter Brook Empty Space Equity Ensemble Award in 2010. With their new gargantuan production, inspired by Leonardo Da Vinci and The Book of Revelation and utilising some avant-garde stage production, Dreamthinkspeak promise a journey through underground passages, the undiscovered nooks and crannies of Somerset House and require you take your life into your hand.
The superlatives flowed last time for their 2004 production Don’t Look Back, described variously as ‘beautiful’, ‘intricate’, ‘terrifying’ and ‘involving’ – and anyone that enjoyed the sold-out You Me Bum Bum Train will love this. The action doesn’t unfold until January, but shows like these don’t go on sale early for nothing, so grab a ticket while (and if) you can. (Words: Ed Spencer)

In The Beginning Was The End runs from January 28 – March 30 2013.For more info, visit http://www.somersethouse.org.uk/performance/in-the-beginning-was-the-end

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Something you should see… Chewing Gum Dreams (Radar Festival 2012)

The Cultural Exposé — Mon, 12 Nov 2012 11:00:38 +0000

Madani Younis, the new artistic director of the Bush theatre, opened the Radar Festival last week with a cheeky paean to the Shepherd Bush area and its eponymous theatre. Over the next three weeks, he explained, the Bush will host discussions about the shape and possibilities of contemporary theatre, along with a myriad of guest performances and works in progress by the artists who are defining these changes. Talks will focus on theatrical concepts and processes, whilst play performances are an opportunity to celebrate and encourage new talent, such as Chewing Gum Dreams, directed by Che Walker, proves.

Performer and playwright Michaela Coel gives us Tracey, a 14-year-old girl, initially all vicious, hilarious put-downs and sly detachment, which she gradually strips away (literally, in one scene – Tracey’s first sexual experience) to lay bare the emotions of growing up. The language is sharp, fresh, confident, and rises effortlessly into poetry. As for Coel, she has a gift for capturing a character in a slouch, a swagger or a smile. The openness and ease of her performance immediately sets up a relationship of trust with the audience, and with her, we are safe to venture more difficult or sensitive areas – male violence, teenage sexuality. One only hopes that the Bush’s new artistic outlook will persuade artists such as Coel to stay in theatre a while longer before disappearing off into film and TV stardom.

If the opening evening is anything to go by, there’ll be plenty of reasons to keep coming back to the Bush Theatre’s Radar Festival over the next three weeks. With people like these shaping contemporary theatre, it’s in safe hands. (Words: Ben Hadley)

Radar Festival runs from November 7th – November 22nd at the Bush Theatre, 7 Uxbridge Road, London, W12 8LJ. For more info, visit www.bushtheatre.co.uk

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TCé picks: A selection of things to do and places to go – November 2012

The Cultural Exposé — Thu, 01 Nov 2012 11:00:36 +0000

Hang onto your hats urban adventurers – the penultimate month of 2012 might be getting frostier, but the cultural landscape in London this November will be offering a enjoyable ride into both new and familiar territories, such as the London Jazz Festival, ice-skating at Somerset House (yup, it’s back!), a gourmet fried chicken joint in Brixton and an interactive live performance at the Southbank Centre that remarkably puts one man’s fate in your hands….

Special Event

Ice-Skating at Somerset House, November 16th-January 6th 2013 – By mid-November you’ll be able to get your skates on and once again glide around the glamorous Somerset House grounds to get you in the mood for the wintery season. Look out for the special club nights the luxurious pop-up shop too.

Cinema

Sci-Fi Film Festival, November 9-11 – The Picturehouse in Stratford is offering a quirky programme of sci-fi themed flicks, premieres and special events – noteworthy films include festival opener The Human Race (“Makes The Hunger Games and Running Man look like a Sunday perambulation in the park” say the blurb), the 48-hour film challenge and the Anime all-nighter.

Arts & Culture

Choose Your Own Documentary, Southbank Centre, November 6-10th – Inspired by the ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ phenomenon of the 1980’s – Nathan Penlington’s Choose Your Own Documentary tells the true story of the discovery of a long-forgotten diary and his attempts to unravel its many mysteries. Part stand-up, part film documentary and part spoken word, it’s a unique and compelling interactive experience in which the audience play the most important role.

Eat & Drink

Wishbone, Brixton (opening early November) – Fried chicken fans have been (im)patiently waiting for the launch of this new spot down South which has been pushed back a few times – but November is meant to see it finally opens it’s door to the masses and offer lots of finger-licking free-range dishes and yummy cocktails.

Music

London Jazz Festival, November 9-18th – The London Jazz Festival is the capital’s biggest pan-city music festival, taking place annually in November. The Festival has long been acclaimed for showcasing a heady mix of talent from around the world. Widely acknowledged for delivering world-class artists and emerging stars, the Festival continues to take jazz to a massive audience, in one of UK’s landmark music events.

Best bits from last month

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