SUMMER SPRING IN THE CITY FEBRUARY MAY TO JULY TO 2019 APRIL 2019
www.visitthecity.co.uk ART AND EXHIBITIONS FAMILY MUSIC SPECIAL EVENTS THEATRE WALKS AND TALKS
ART AND EXHIBITIONS
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Guildhall Yard Lunch Market, p20
With longer evenings and better weather ahead, put on your sunglasses, slap on some sunscreen and enjoy all the City has to offer. From concerts on rooftops and outdoor acrobatics, to refreshing beer and sensational sport, the Square Mile invites you to an eventful season ahead.
Celebrate invention, engineering and architecture with the launch of Fantastic Feats: the building of London. From a virtual reality swing (p21) to large-scale street theatre, this six-month programme has something for everyone. Look out for events marked by the FF sign. For full programme visit www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ fantasticfeats. Those keen to see London in new ways can experience it through the eyes of artists at Guildhall Art Gallery’s new exhibition Architecture of London (p6) whilst the 9th edition of Sculpture in the City turns the insurance district into a giant sculpture park (p8).
The information in this leaflet has been researched and compiled in good faith and checked as thoroughly as possible with the relevant sources. It is correct to the best of the publisher’s knowledge at the time of printing (April 2019) and the publisher cannot accept any liability for errors and omissions howsoever caused. No payment was either solicited or received for inclusion of entries and it does not claim to be fully comprehensive.
www.visitthecity.co.uk
Allow yourself to be swept away by some sensational music, from a weekend of free music as part of Sound Unbound (p15), through to the rhythms of Malian duo Amadou and Mariam at the Barbican (p18). And finally, if you just want to sit and enjoy the weather you can savour refreshing beer and raise money for a good cause at the City Beerfest (p23), cheer the runners on at the Great City Run (p23) or immerse yourself in dreamy sound installations at Salters’ Hall Gardens (p5).
For more information about events in the City, go to visitthecity.co.uk or pop in to the City Information Centre near St Paul’s Cathedral, where our fabulous, multilingual team are ready to help you plan your days out. City Information Centre St Paul’s Churchyard London EC4M 8BX
Sign up to the City of London eShot for all the latest news and events at www.cityoflondon.gov.uk
@visitthecity
From lost rivers to underground railways, deep shelters to burial grounds, the sprawling network of tunnels and spaces under London are a subject of fascination and fear. Under Ground London digs into the collections at London Metropolitan Archives and reveals what lies beneath the capital, presenting original documents, maps, images and films that record the development of the subterranean city. When: Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 9.30am4.45pm, Wed 9.30am-7.30pm; one Saturday per month Free
Until 24 May
Merchant Navy Treasures: An Introduction to the Newall Dunn Collection at Guildhall Library Discover a treasure trove of images, press releases and cuttings, company brochures, menus and other collectables from one of the world’s most comprehensive photographic and reference collections on merchant shipping. Curated from the Newall Dunn Collection, which was built by the shipping historian Peter Newall and incorporates the collection of artist and writer Laurence Dunn, this exhibition celebrates three famous lines from the golden age of shipping: Cunard, Orient and Union-Castle. Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, selected Sat 9.30am-5pm, Wed 9.30am7.30pm Free Guildhall Library Aldermanbury EC2V 7HH www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ guildhalllibrary 020 7332 1868/1870
Pleasure Garden at Salters’ Hall Gardens
From 13 May
Building the Bank of England: Sir John Soane at Threadneedle Street London Metropolitan Archives 40 Northampton Road EC1R 0HB www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/lma 020 7332 3820
3 – 31 May
Ordinary People – Springs Arts Festival Gain an insight into the lives of ordinary people and communities documented in London Metropolitan Archives’ unique records. Hear the stories of Londoners from the 19th Century to the present. Mon, Tue, Thur 9.30am-4.45pm, Wed 9.30am-7.30pm, open selected Sat London Metropolitan Archives 40 Northampton Road EC1R 0HB www.lma.eventbrite.com 020 7332 3851
Architect John Soane (1753–1837) expanded and developed the Bank of England building between 1788 and 1833. This display will show how Soane’s work transformed the Threadneedle Street site and how these architectural changes reflected the developing role of the Bank. When: 10am-5pm (last entry 4.30pm) Free Bank of England Museum Bartholomew Lane EC2R 8AH www.bankofengland.co.uk/ museum 020 3461 5545
From 16 May
AI: More than Human Enter the world of artificial intelligence at this highly interactive exhibition that explores the relationship between human and machine. Bringing together artists and scientists, this show will challenge your
Experience a sound installation by Genevieve Lacey, which combines music and environmental sounds to create an interactive listening garden that responds to movement. Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Free Salters’ Hall Gardens 1 London Wall Place EC2Y 5DE www.culturemile.london
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24 May – 14 June
Under Ground London
5 Art and Exhibitions
Ongoing
perceptions of AI. Dance along with avatars, play in a futuristic Barbican, interact with an AI poet, and more. When: Sat-Wed 10am-6pm, Thu-Fri 10am-9pm, Bank holidays 12-6pm Admission: From £15 Across the Barbican Centre Silk Street EC2Y 8DS www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on 020 7638 8891
From 31 May
Lee Krasner: Living Colour
Illuminated River This exhibition celebrates the work and life of Lee Krasner – a key figure in American art. The first major presentation of her work in Europe for more than 50 years, the exhibition tells the story of a formidable artist, whose importance has too often been eclipsed by her marriage to Jackson Pollock. When: Sat-Wed 10am6pm, Thu-Fri 10am-9pm, Bank holidays 12-6pm Admission: From £15 Barbican Centre Silk Street EC2Y 8DS www.barbican.org.uk/ leekrasner 020 7638 8891
The ambitious Illuminated River project will light up central London’s bridges along the River Thames. It is being led London architects Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands and American light artist Leo Villareal (The Bay Bridge Lights, San Francisco) and once complete, will be the longest public art commission in the world. In this exhibition, architectural drawings and visualisations for the project will be displayed alongside Thames paintings chosen by Villareal from Guildhall Art Gallery’s collection. When: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12noon-4pm Free Guildhall Art Gallery Guildhall Yard EC2V 5AE www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ guildhallartgallery 020 7332 3700
From 3 June
Sir Thomas Gresham (1519-1579): Tudor, Trader, Shipper, Spy The remarkable achievements and legacy of sixteenth-century merchant and financier Thomas Gresham are often overlooked. He managed to serve four Tudor monarchs, while keeping his head, and making money. When he died, he was widely reputed to be the wealthiest man in Europe. Gresham’s Will of 1575 established his most enduring legacy, Gresham College. This exhibition celebrates the quincentenary of his birth, and coincides with the release of a major new biography by Tudor historian Dr John Guy. When: Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 9.30am-5pm, Wed 9.30am-7.30pm, selected Saturdays Free Guildhall Library Aldermanbury EC2V 7HH www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ guildhalllibrary
31 May – 30 November
River View: Liminal
From 31 May
Architecture of London This wide-ranging new exhibition explores how the capital’s buildings have served as a source of inspiration to artists for centuries. The exhibition provides an insight into the city’s ever-evolving architecture and topography, exploring over 400 years of London’s changing
landscape, streets and buildings through the eyes of resident and visiting artists including Canaletto, Lucian Freud and Catherine Yass. When: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12noon-4pm Admission: £10 adult, £7 concs Guildhall Art Gallery Gresham Street EC2V 5AE www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ architectureoflondon 020 7332 3700
A new commission by Wolfgang Buttress, Liminal blurs the boundaries between 2D, 3D and 4D. Constructed from a variety of mirror, bright, satin and matt aluminium panels that focus and alter the viewers perception of the river. Liminal has an underwater sonar capturing the life and flow of the Thames through sound as well as light.
When: outdoor public art, accessible 24 hours Free Thames Riverside Walkway (North Bank, by City of London Boy’s School) www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ fantasticfeats
7 Art and Exhibitions
From 30 May
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9 Family
From 27 June
Sculpture in the City Wander the City’s public spaces and discover worldclass public art across an iconic urban landscape. Sculpture in the City, an annual urban sculpture park, returns for its 9th edition with contemporary works from internationally renowned and emerging artists. Pick up a free map from the City Information Centre outside St Paul’s Cathedral. Free to view at any time www.sculptureinthecity.org.uk 020 7332 3132 Sculpture © Lehmann Maupin, New York, Hong Kong and Seoul; Victoria Miro, London/Venice; Art Night; Sculpture in the City and Arts Council Korea, Korean Culture Centre UK; Photo: ©Gautier Deblonde
From 22 July
11 May, 8 June, 13 July
18 May, 15 June, 20 July
Explore how money and the way we make payments have changed over the last three and a quarter centuries. Celebrating the 325th anniversary of the founding of the Bank of England, this exhibition tells the story of the bank through 325 objects – one for every year. When: 10am-5pm (last entry 4.30pm) Free Bank of England Museum Barthlomew Lane EC2R 8AH www.bankofengland.co.uk/ museum 020 3461 5545
On the second Saturday of every month, join Guildhall Art Gallery for a revolving programme of family activities linked to the Architecture of London exhibition (p6), the permanent collection and the remains of London’s Roman Amphitheatre. When: 10am-4pm Free (no booking necessary) Guildhall Art Gallery Guildhall Yard EC2V 5AE www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ guildhallartgallery 020 7332 3700
Due to popular demand, Tower Bridge’s Autism Friendly Early Opening events are now available to book throughout the year. Those with autism, or other needs, as well as their siblings, families and carers, are invited to visit the Bridge before it opens to the general public and explore the Towers, Walkways and Engine Rooms in a calm, relaxed atmosphere as well as take part in a family craft activity. When: 9.15am, 9.30am, 9.45am Admission: Adults £9.80, children go free Tower Bridge Tower Bridge Road SE1 2UP www.towerbridge.org.uk/ autismfriendlyevents 020 7403 3761
325 years/ 325 objects
2 – 15 July Guildhall Yard, 17 July – 5 August Aldgate Square
London’s Grand Designs: Building a Capital City, 1675 to 1986 London is home to some of the world’s most striking architecture and innovative engineering. Whether driven by divine purpose or the needs of a growing population, architects and engineers have shaped the identity of the city and the lives of Londoners. Starting with Wren’s St Paul’s Cathedral, this exhibition delves into the historical collections at London Metropolitan
Archives to present the blueprints, drawings and photographs that record the development of some of London’s greatest buildings and structures. Free to view at any time Aldgate Square EC3N 1AF and Guildhall Yard EC2V 5AE www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ fantasticfeats 020 7332 3820
Guildhall Art Gallery Family Activities
Autism Friendly Early Opening
31 May
Celebrate the 200th birthday of Tower Bridge architect Sir Horace Jones, at a new exhibition in the historic Engine Rooms. Families are invited to party with the man behind Tower Bridge (as well as Leadenhall and Smithfield markets). Featuring games, a birthday tea table, treasure hunt and Victorian photo opportunity. This event is part of Tower Bridge’s 125th anniversary celebrations. When: 9.30am-5pm daily Included in the price of admission to Tower Bridge Tower Bridge Tower Bridge Road SE1 2UP www.towerbridge. org.uk/125 020 7403 3761
London History Day Discover the latest collections that have been deposited at the London Metropolitan Archives. Enjoy intriguing documents, short talks, and creative activities for all the family, including the Great Document Explorer Discovery Quiz, Conservation Crafts and music from Alexander D Great. When: 10am-4pm Free London Metropolitan Archives 40 Northampton Road London EC1R 0HB www.londonhistorydaylma. eventbrite.co.uk 020 7332 3851
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Happy Birthday Horace
11 Family
From 20 May
31 May
Roman London History Day 25 May & 26 May
Beasts of London Family Festival Take a walk on the wild side with your family at this weekend extravaganza. Create your own animated animal puppet show, discover the secrets of the Tower of London menagerie, get crafty with an animal mask or make a cast of your favourite animal footprint. Make sure you keep your eyes peeled… you may spot some wandering characters in the galleries. This exciting festival is a free, drop-in event. Tickets for the Beasts of London exhibition can be purchased separately.
Free Museum of London 150 London Wall EC2Y 5HN www.museumoflondon.org.uk 020 7001 9844
28 May – 31 May
Draw like Topolski Expressionist painter Feliks Topolski was always on the lookout for something eye-catching to draw. At this exhibition of his drawings of Debden’s banknote printing works, try your hand at sketching your surroundings with the help of a selection of drawing activities. The top picks will be displayed on the Museum’s social media channels. When: 10am-5pm (last entry 4.30pm) Free Bank of England Museum Bartholomew Lane EC2R 8AH www.bankofengland.co.uk/ museum 020 3461 5545
Go Roman for the day at London’s Roman Amphitheatre and Billingsgate Roman House and Baths. Start the day exploring the site where gladiators fought for the entertainment of Londinium’s citizens, then head down to the bathhouse to learn how ancient Londoners liked to relax. When: 11am-2.30pm Free (booking is essential) Guildhall Art Gallery Guildhall Yard EC2V 5AE www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ guildhallartgallery 020 7332 3700
Experience the spectacle of a live symphony orchestra as it tells the story of one child who helps bring an idea into the world. As the child’s confidence grows, so does the idea until one day, something incredible happens. This concert explores the importance of imagination and how young people have the power to change the world. When: 2.30-3.30pm Admission: £5 under 18s, adults from £10 Barbican Hall Barbican Centre Silk Street EC2Y 8DS www.lso.co.uk/families 020 7638 8891
21 June – 19 July
Inside Out: Free outdoor concerts The London Symphony Orchestra invites people to bring their picnics and enjoy the sunshine with live music on the front lawn of LSO St Luke’s – a perfect break from the office and great for families. With a variety of music
22 June
London: Above and Below Ground Family Day
styles from across the globe, there’s something for everyone. You don’t need to book in advance, simply turn up on the day. When: 1.15-2pm Free LSO St Luke’s 161 Old St EC1V 9NG www.lso.co.uk/insideout 020 7566 2879
Explore London above and below the ground, from Roman to modern times. Inspired by the remains of London’s Roman Amphitheatre and the Architecture of London exhibition (p6), you and your family will help create an art installation based on the architecture and engineering of London. There will be ongoing activities throughout the day as well as storytelling and a family trail. When: 11am-4pm Free (no booking necessary) Guildhall Art Gallery Guildhall Yard EC2V 5AE www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ guildhallartgallery 020 7332 3700
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325 years/ 325 objects: Explorer Trail
LSO Family Concert: What Do You Do With An Idea?
13 Family
22 July – 30 August
1 June
Calling all museum explorers! Visit this brand new exhibition and go on a fascinating journey of discovery. Learn about some of the unusual objects on display and the Bank’s 325 years of history. Complete the trail and win a small prize at the end. When: 10am-5pm (last entry 4.30pm) Free Bank of England Museum Bartholomew Lane EC2R 8AH www.bankofengland.co.uk/ museum 020 3461 5545
21 July
Culture Mile Community Day After the huge success of Culture Mile’s first ever Community Day, the fun returns. Explore your creativity with a jam-packed day full of exciting workshops and performances. With a whole host of activities from the LSO, Barbican Centre, Guildhall School of Music & Drama and Museum of London, you’re bound to discover something new. When: 11am-4pm Free LSO St Luke’s 161 Old St EC1V 9NG www.lso.co.uk/communityday 020 7566 2875
31 July
Harry Potter Day at Leadenhall Market In the famous books by J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter’s birthday is on 31 July. This year, mark ‘Harry Potter Day’ at Leadenhall Market – also known as Diagon Alley in the famous film series. Take part in a potion-making workshop and keep a look out for some familiar faces. Visit the website for full details. Various times Free Leadenhall Market Gracechurch Street EC3V 1LT www.leadenhallmarket.co.uk 020 7332 1961
15 Music
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3 May – 26 June
BBC Radio 3 Lunchtime Concerts This series of concerts feature spectacular chamber music performances from established performers and emerging artists alike. Hear virtuoso pianist Alice Sara Ott as she showcases her dazzling technique, and immerse yourself in the rhythms, melodies and folk roots of Czech music. When: 1-2pm Admission: £14, £12 concs LSO St Luke’s 161 Old St EC1V 9NG www.lso.co.uk/ lunchtimeconcerts 020 7638 8891
6 May
Ensemble Bash Innovative British percussion quartet Ensemble Bash take up residence at Guildhall School of Music & Drama. In this showcase they’ll perform works by Graham Fitkin, John Cage, Peter McGarr with Guildhall Percussion Group – guaranteed to be a thrilling evening of music. When: 7.30pm Admission: £15, concs £5 Milton Court Concert Hall 1 Milton Street EC2Y 9BH www.gsmd.ac.uk/events 020 7638 8891
10 May
The Gold Medal Guildhall School of Music & Drama’s most prestigious music prize returns. This year it’s the turn of the singers, who will perform with piano accompaniment and with Guildhall Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Richard Farnes. Previous winners of the Gold Medal include Jacqueline du Pré (1960), Tasmin Little (1986) and Sir Bryn Terfel (1989), who returns this year as a judge. When: 7pm Admission: From £15, concs £5 Barbican Hall Barbican Centre Silk Street EC2Y 8DS www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on 020 7638 8891
18 & 19 May
Sound Unbound A free music festival where over 800 years of music and architecture collide. Music will burst from the concert hall and out across Culture Mile’s architectural gems with a line-up of artists for whom the boundaries between classical and contemporary, experimental and jazz are blurred – or never even existed in the first place. Kick back to the music of Steve Reich on the Barbican Lakeside. Soak up ambient sounds in Farringdon’s super-club, Fabric. Embark on a musical walking trail around the historic backstreets of Smithfield. Wander through
the tropical oasis of the Barbican Conservatory to the strains of music inspired by birdsong. Or let the soothing sounds of Gregorian chant wash over you in the intimate chapel of The Charterhouse. From authentic medieval sounds to hypnotic minimalist masterpieces, there are over 100 sessions, installations and more to explore – and you can tap into any of them for free. When: 11am Free Across Culture Mile www.culturemile.london/ sound-unbound
17 Music
3 – 10 June
22 May
Saint Etienne: Tiger Bay A quarter of a century since its release, pioneering pop trio Saint Etienne perform their critically rated album in its entirety, along with a set of hits and deep cuts from their back catalogue. When: 7.30pm Admission: £25-£40 Barbican Hall Barbican Centre Silk Street EC2Y 8DS www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on 020 7638 4141
Guildhall School of Music & Drama’s award-winning Opera department presents a double bill of early operatic works exploring romantic love: the pursuit and passion, happiness and heartbreak. Handel’s pastoral cantata Aminta e Fillide follows Aminta on his campaign to woo the nymph, Fillide. The theme of Cupid’s arrow also runs through John Blow’s Venus and Adonis, composed 25 years earlier for the court of King Charles II and considered by many to be the earliest known English opera. When: 7pm Admission: £25, £15 concs Silk Street Theatre Silk Street EC2Y 8DT www.gsmd.ac.uk/events 020 7638 8891
24 May
Guildhall Jazz Orchestra with Elliot Mason Guildhall School of Music & Drama welcomes international trombone star Elliot Mason for a showcase of his music. Don’t miss this chance to hear the celebrated Jazz at Lincoln Center
Orchestra member, in action with Guildhall jazz musicians and director Tom Richards. When: 7pm Admission: £15, £5 concs Milton Court Concert Hall 1 Milton Street EC2Y 9BH www.gsmd.ac.uk/events 020 7638 8891
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Opera Double Bill: Handel & Blow
5 – 7 July
Guildhall Chamber Music Festival Guildhall School of Music & Drama’s summer Chamber Music Festival returns for another weekend of unmissable performances from some of the School’s most accomplished chamber groups and student– professor collaborations, featuring renowned performers from the chamber music faculty. Various times Admission: Free-£15, £5 concs, multi-buy offer available Guildhall School of Music & Drama Silk St EC2Y 8DT www.gsmd.ac.uk/events 020 7638 8891
9 July
The Trace of The Butterfly: A Tribute to Rim Banna A special tribute concert to the late Palestinian singer, songwriter and composer Rim Banna featuring the musicians who knew her best as well as close peers in the regional music scene. Artists include Lebanese singer-songwriter Tania Saleh, Palestinian composer and pianist Faraj Suleiman, Egyptian singer Dina El Wedidi, and Syrian producer/MC Bu Kolthoum. They will be performing newly re-orchestrated versions of Rim Banna’s material, accompanied by a specially assembled band. This concert is part of Shubbak, a biennial festival celebrating contemporary Arab arts. When: 8pm Admission: £17.50-£25 Barbican Hall Barbican Centre Silk Street EC2Y 8DS www.barbican.org.uk/ whats-on 020 7638 8891
19 Special Events
20 July
Ten artists will create ten individual new tracks in response to a building, area or aspect of the city that inspires them. Using data gathered by acoustic experts ARUP, this installation explores the intrinsic connection between architecture and sound. Free Around Culture Mile www.culturemile.london
13 July
Amadou & Mariam with the Blind Boys of Alabama From Bamako to Birmingham Malian duo Amadou & Mariam collaborate with the Blind Boys of Alabama for a new project fusing African pop with American gospel singing. When: 7.30pm Admission: £20-35 Barbican Hall Barbican Centre Silk Street EC2Y 8DS www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on 020 7638 8891
19 July
Clint Mansell: Moon (15) with the London Contemporary Orchestra The London Contemporary Orchestra perform Clint Mansell’s otherworldly score for Duncan Jones’s Moon, side-by-side with a screening of the film for the first time. When: 7.30pm Admission: £20-30 Barbican Hall Barbican Centre Silk Street EC2Y 8DS www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on 020 7638 4141
July
Nonclassical in Sky Gardens Music promoter, record label and events producer nonclassical bring the best new classical, experimental and electronic music to the City skyline, curating a series of events at the Sky Gardens. Working with a number of artists from across the new music scene, enjoy site-specific performances, sound installations, and genre-bending DJ sets over three nights in the summer, with each event taking place at a different rooftop location in the City. View the website for details. Locations across the City www.nonclassical.co.uk
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Musicity x Culture Mile
20 May – 20 June 12-25 May
Let’s Talk View this powerful outdoor photography exhibition, which aims to spark conversations about mental health. By drawing people’s most difficult thoughts on their faces, photographer Charlie Clift and lettering artist Kate Forrester inspire others to open up about their own mental health. Free Guildhall Yard EC2A 5AE www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ yardevents
Fantastic Feats: The Victorian City Festival at Leadenhall Market Join a celebration of Victorian culture to mark the 200th anniversary of the birth of the market’s architect, Sir Horace Jones. During the monthlong festival, Leadenhall Market will host Victorian-inspired musical performances, craft workshops, entertainment, historical tours, and more. Everything from circus performers and magicians to poets and story-tellers will be found in the famous Victorian marketplace. Visit the website for full event details. Various times Free Leadenhall Market Gracechurch Street EC3V 1LT www.leadenhallmarket.co.uk 0207 332 1961
From 18 May
House of Wayward Plants: The Smithfield Greenhouse Smithfield Rotunda Garden (West Smithfield) comes to life with a temporary pavilion that is part glass house, part bandstand filled with plants and a programme of activity connecting gardening and craftmanship. All day Free Smithfield Rotunda Garden West Smithfield EC1A 9DY www.culturemile.london
22 May, 26 June, 30 July
Yoga in the Yard
Find your happy place in Guildhall Yard with therapeutic yoga sessions under the sun. Instructors from Another Space will lead you through your asanas while you connect with the outdoors and to the soundtrack of the City waking or heading home for the day. When: 22 May & 30 Jul 8.15-9am; 26 Jun 5.30-6.15pm Free Guildhall Yard EC2A 5AE www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ yardevents
Join compère Steve Cross and six fantastic stand-up comedians for the annual Architecture Showoff. Expect a chaotic evening of comedy, storytelling and bizarre facts about London’s ever-changing built environment. When: 7.30-9.30pm (doors open at 7pm) Admission: £9.50 The City Centre 80 Basinghall St EC2V 5AR www.thecitycentre.london 020 7600 8362
Be transported into exhilarating dream experiences by Studio Go Go. Four virtual reality swing adventures, in iconic locations in the City, will offer riders a different sensation of flight. Volo celebrates 500 years of the creations of Leonardo Da Vinci, and is inspired by his fabulous flying machines, studies of flight and pioneering work on perspective. When: 11am-7pm Free Various locations around the City, visit the website for details. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ fantasticfeats
Volo: Dreams of Flight
23 May, 26 June, 25 July
Guildhall Yard Lunch Market
The historic Guildhall Yard hosts a monthly lunch market with more than 20 stalls serving up mouth-watering cuisine from around the world. When: 12-2.30pm Guildhall Yard EC2V 5AE www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ yardevents
24 May, 5 June, 12 July
Open Gardens
Make the most of this special opportunity to explore the peaceful gardens at The Charterhouse, a 14th-century Carthusian monastery. Stroll around seven acres of delightful gardens, which have been created as a peaceful haven for residents of the almshouse. You can spend a tranquil evening walking or sitting among the flora, and enjoy an informal BBQ and bar. When: 5.30-8.30pm (times vary) Admission: £10 (food and drink is not included) The Charterhouse Charterhouse Square EC1M 6AN www.thecharterhouse.org/ visit-us/whats-on 020 3818 8873
13 & 14 June
Bodies in Urban Spaces Austrian choreographer Willi Dorner brings an imaginative pop-up performance to the City. A group of colourfully dressed local dancers, performers and free runners will travel along a predetermined route, intertwining and stacking their bodies in doorways, arches and alleyways. When: 8.30-9.30am, 1.30-2.30pm, 5.30-6.30pm Free Starting at 1 Principal Place EC2A 2BA www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ fantasticfeats
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18 – 22 June
Architecture Showoff
21 Special Events
6 June
22 June
Moby Dick: The Construction of an Obsession This spectacular outdoor show by Italian company Teatro dei Venti brings Captain Ahab’s ship and his obsessive search for revenge to the City. With ingenious staging, theatre, dance, circus and music, this timely reinvention of Melville’s classic novel explores themes of migration and the fear of the unknown. Part of the Greenwich+Docklands International Festival. When: 8pm Free Guildhall Yard EC2V 5AE www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ fantasticfeats
29-30 June
Tower Bridge Turns 125 To celebrate the 125th birthday of London’s iconic landmark, Tower Bridge is hosting a series of themed events, and will be replacing standard admission with a special entry offer of £1.25 and exclusive souvenir bookmark. Visitors to the Bridge will “Meet the Victorians” that once walked the Walkways, enjoy performances by aerialists and acrobats, and learn more about the history of the building in a packed programme of talks, exhibitions and activities throughout 2019. Tower Bridge www.towerbridge.org.uk/125 020 7403 3761
16 July
Join the Lord Mayor to celebrate the life and work of St Lawrence Jewry, the municipal church of the City Corporation. This impressive church is located at the heart of Guildhall Yard, which has housed a church since at least the twelfth century. The current structure was designed by Sir Christopher Wren following the Great Fire of London. Though heavily damaged during WWII, St Lawrence Jewry was rebuilt to Wren’s original plans. When: 4.30pm Free St Lawrence Jewry Guildhall Yard EC2V 5AA www.stlawrencejewry.org.uk 020 7600 9478
15-21 July
The People’s Tower Join artist Olivier Grossetête for some box-building fun, creating a monumental cardboard structure inspired by the Guildhall. Over 1,000 boxes will be used to make this 20m-high masterpiece. Olivier needs volunteers to assemble the building blocks of this giant tower throughout the week. On Saturday, lend a hand to fit the building blocks together to construct the tower and on Sunday take part or watch it being destroyed by its makers. See website for workshop and event times. Free Guildhall Yard EC2V 5AE www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ fantasticfeats
Great City Race
17 July
Cart Marking Ceremony From handcarts to horse-drawn carriages and steam-driven vehicles to the new Routemaster, watch this parade of vehicles old and new as they come into Guildhall Yard. Each is marked with a red-hot iron by the Master Carman and the Lord Mayor in a wonderfully eccentric City ceremony. When: 12pm Free Guildhall Yard EC2V 5AE www.thecarmen.co.uk
The Standard Chartered Great City Race is a 5km corporate running challenge that takes place around the City. The team event features runners from the Accountancy, Banking, Media, Insurance and Legal sectors and offers participants an excellent opportunity to see some of the Square Mile’s great landmarks at close quarters. Free See website for timing and route www.cityrace.co.uk
18 July
City Beerfest This one-day festival has become an established City tradition in aid of fantastic causes, and one of the highlights of the social calendar. Come and raise a glass in support of three charities addressing social issues and delivering groundbreaking programmes that change, and save, people’s lives: the Samaritans, Place2Be and OnSide Youth Zones. City Beerfest was created in 2013 as a joint initiative between the Lord Mayor’s Appeal, City Music Foundation and the Worshipful Company of Brewers. When: 12.30-9pm Admission: Free entry, Beer token packages start from £11 Guildhall Yard EC2V 5AE www.citybeerfest.org
25 July
Wild by Motionhouse This daring new dancecircus production explores our disconnection from the natural environment and questions if ‘the wild’ still shapes our behaviour in our urban lives. Using powerful physicality and daring feats to move through a forest of tall poles, this performance asks the audience to question: where do we belong? Free See website for details www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ fantasticfeats
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St Lawrence Jewry Annual Service
23 Special Event
15 July
26 & 27 July
Fiesta de Mexico Revel in the vibrant cultural traditions of Mexico during this two-day fiesta. Savour typical street food and try your hand at dancing. In the evening Guildhall Yard will come to life with the sounds of Mariachi, before some entertaining wrestling matches featuring mythical characters from Mexico’s ancient past. From 12noon Guildhall Yard EC2A 5AE www.visitthecity.co.uk/whats-on
The story follows J Pierrepont Finch, a lowly window washer, who tries to use a little handbook called ‘How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying’ to climb the corporate ladder and become a high-powered executive at World Wide Wickets – a cricket wicket company. When: 7.30pm, Sat matinée at 2.30pm (no perf Sun or Mon) Admission: £14.50-£23 Bridewell Theatre 14 Bride Lane EC4Y 8EQ www.sbf.org.uk 020 7353 3331
22 – 25 May
19 – 22 June
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
30 May – 1 June
Kalakuta Republik An intoxicating dance piece that embodies the spirit of Fela Kuti through decadent movement and a score of jazz-infused Afrobeat. While dancers pulsate and whirl with bursts of colour, their relentless movement exploding with virtuoso energy, provocative messages emblaze the stage, depicting the struggles of an individual. In honouring Nigerian activist, musical legend and political maverick Fela Kuti, this show by Burkina Faso-born choreographer Serge Aimé Coulibaly also reflects on the role of anti-establishment artists in West Africa today.
When: 7.45-9.10pm Admission: £28 (plus booking fee) Barbican Centre Silk Street EC2Y 8DS www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on 020 7638 8891
Four Quartets 75 years after its composition, TS Eliot’s poem is transformed into an image-rich piece, combining dance, music and visual art, with narration by Broadway star Kathleen Chalfant. When: 7.45-9.15pm Admission: £25-45 (plus booking fee) Barbican Centre Silk Street EC2Y 8DS www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on 020 7638 8891
19 – 25 June
The Damned
5 – 8 June
The Knight of the Burning Pestle Cheek by Jowl reunite with Moscow Pushkin Theatre in this outrageously dark comedy where everyone can be famous and anyone can write the story. When: 7.45-9.25pm; 2.30-4.10pm (Saturday only) Admission: £25-45 (plus booking fee) Barbican Centre Silk Street EC2Y 8DS www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on 020 7638 8891
Crackling with intensity, this triumphant spectacle directed by Ivo van Hove depicts the disintegration of a society, undone through a venomous alliance. Luchino Visconti’s screenplay follows a family of German industrialists – the corrupt and debauched Essenbeck clan. With echoes of Greek and Shakespearean tragedy but with unsettling parallels today, the Essenbecks’ deepening collusion with the nascent Nazi regime puts them on a perilous path to destruction. When: 7.45-9.55pm Admission: £16-50 (plus booking fee) Barbican Centre Silk Street EC2Y 8DS www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on 020 7638 8891
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How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying
25 Theatre
15 – 25 May
In this version of the old melodrama, on which Sondheim’s musical is based, Sweeney Todd returns to London to seek revenge on those who stole his life. With the assistance of the delirious Mrs. Lovett he resumes his work as a master barber with his sights (and blades) set upon the throats of his tormentors, whilst Mrs. Lovett revitalises her flagging pie shop by unusual and unsavoury means. When: Wed-Fri 7.30pm; Sat 5pm Admission: £11-£15 Bridewell Theatre 14 Bride Lane EC4Y 8EQ www.sbf.org.uk 020 7353 3331
Delve down into the basement of a modern office block and discover the remains of a Roman bathhouse. Explore what life may have been like in Londinium. When: Sat 11am, 12 noon, 1pm Admission: £9, concs £7 (plus booking fee) Billingsgate Roman House & Baths 101 Lower Thames Street EC3R 6DL www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ bathhouse
2 May
Guildhall Library Afternoon Talks
Fashionable Circles? Reynolds, Johnson, Garrick and the Art of Dress
Highlights include: The Early Life of Alexandra Feodorovna, Last Empress of Russia (15 May), The Hidden Meaning of the Coronation (23 May), Coventry Cathedral: Icon and Inspiration (6 Jun), Dainty Dishes and Coronation Banquets (18 June). When: 2pm-3pm FREE (book in advance) Guildhall Library Aldermanbury EC2V 7HH www.ghlevents.eventbrite.co.uk 020 7332 1869/1871
Ongoing
City of London Walks With over 2,000 of history, the City is the historic heart of London. Behind its magnificent skyscrapers, churches and shopping arcades are charming alleyways, courtyards and hidden treasures. A great way to explore them is with an experienced, qualified guide who can give you unique insights into the City’s architecture, history, customs and pageantry, as well as a range of entertaining stories. When: 11am & 2pm Admission: £10, concs £8 City Information Centre St Paul’s Churchyard EC4M 8BX www.cityoflondonguides.com 020 7606 3030
Whilst Johnson may not have cared much for fashion, many of his friends dressed to impress. The art of fashion within his circle will be explored with special reference to the clothing of David Garrick and the portrait practice of Sir Joshua Reynolds. Led by Jacqui Ansell, specialist in the History of Dress at the Courtauld Institute, Senior Lecturer at Christie’s Education, and an accredited Arts Society Lecturer specialising in the history of fine and decorative art. When: 6.30-8pm Admission: £10 Dr Johnson’s House 17 Gough Square EC4A 3DE www.drjohnsonshouse.org 020 7353 3745
1 May
Leonardo’s Salvator Mundi: Scholarship, Science and Skullduggery The newly-discovered Salvator by Leonardo da Vinci is one of his most notable creations, in which he used his ‘science of art’ to transform a stock subject into a profound expression of the ineffability of the divine. In this guest lecture, renowned art scholar Professor Martin Kemp will look at the remarkable story of the discovery, conservation and examination of the world’s costliest painting. When: 6pm Free on a first come first served basis; also live-streamed online Museum of London 150 London Wall EC27 5HN www.gresham.ac.uk/attend 020 7831 0575
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Billingsgate Roman House & Baths Weekend Tours
Ongoing
27 Walks and Talks
Ongoing
10 May
The Stone Mason: An insider’s history of Britain’s buildings Part hands-on archaeological history of Britain, part personal insight into the ancient craft of the stone mason, this talk by Andrew Ziminski offers a unique account of his life as a craftsman and his work on some of the most significant churches and cathedrals in England, including St Paul’s. There will also be an opportunity to see a selection of carved medieval stones from PreFire St Paul’s Cathedral. When: 1-2pm Admission: Free, but registration is recommended Wren Suite, Crypt of St Paul’s Cathedral St Paul’s Churchyard EC4M 8AD www.stpauls.co.uk/talks 020 7246 8350
8 May
Gresham’s Exchange Sir Thomas Gresham’s first great contribution to the life of London was the Royal Exchange, the purpose-built merchants’ market which opened in 1567. In this guest lecture for Gresham College, Professor Stephen Alford will ask why did Gresham finance and build it? What did Londoners (and others) do there? And what does the Exchange tell us about Gresham’s ambitions both for himself and for London?
When: 6-7pm Admission: Free on a first come first served basis, last admission 6.10pm if there are still seats available Museum of London 150 London Wall EC27 5HN www.gresham.ac.uk/attend 020 7831 0575
30 May
Examining the effects of migration for a generation of Caribbean children, Dr Elaine Arnold and poet Maureen Roberts, author of My Grandmother Sings to Me, discuss their experiences of dealing with this difficult migration history. Free When: 2.30-4pm London Metropolitan Archives 40 Northampton Road EC1R 0HB www.lma.eventbrite.com 020 7332 3851
20 May
Sir Horace Jones: The City of London’s Iconic Victorian Architect Join Colin Davey, City Guide and founder member of London Historians for a lecture on the architect of Tower Bridge, as well as three iconic markets: Smithfield, Billingsgate and Leadenhall. Ticket price includes wine reception. When: 6pm £8.06 Guildhall Library Aldermanbury EC2A 7HH www.cityoflondon. gov.uk/guildhalllibrary
Holy Envy: Finding God in the Faith of Others
26 May & 30 June
Huguenot Footsteps: Spitalfields
Many of the Huguenots were weavers. When they arrived in London, they brought with them new skills, techniques, ideas and their incomparable French style. The master weavers lived in large, elegant houses whilst the journeymen weavers lived in small houses north of Spitalfields and Bethnal Green. On this walk, you will hear about the silk industry, famous pattern designers and fashions of the period, and much more. When: 12pm Admission: £10 Outside Christ Church Spitalfields Commercial Street E1 6LY www.huguenotsofspitalfields.org 020 7247 0367
21 May
Feeding the poor of London: soup kitchens in the nineteenth century The soup kitchen was perfected in Spitalfields, where Huguenots established the first soup kitchen for distressed silk weavers. This talk will explore the experience of the poor at several of London’s many 19th-century soup kitchens.
These regularly supplied tens of thousands of poor Londoners with soup; the Spitalfields Soup Society, one of the largest, served the Spitalfields community whose silk weavers suffered great privation as their industry declined. When: 2.30-3.30pm London Metropolitan Archives 40 Northampton Road EC1R 0HB www.lma.eventbrite.com 020 7332 3851
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Children of Windrush
29 Walks and Talks
15 May
Christians are taught that God is everywhere, and many people experience the sacred in unexpected places: in nature, in friends and strangers, in music and the arts. But is it also possible to encounter God in the faith of other people? When: 6.30-8pm Free, registration recommended St Paul’s Cathedral St Paul’s Churchyard EC4M 8AD www.stpauls.co.uk/holyenvy 020 7246 8337
6 June
London’s Roman Amphitheatre – free introductory tour Discover London’s Roman Amphitheatre on a free intoductory tour with resident archaeologist Andrew Lane. Find out more about the remains of one of the most important buildings in Roman London. When: 1.15pm, approximately 45 minutes Free Guildhall Art Gallery and London’s Roman Amphitheatre Guildhall Yard EC2V 5AE www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ amphitheatre 020 7332 1692
7 June
Drop-in Roman object handling session Ever wanted to handle something nearly 2,000 years old? Join a trained archaeologist for the chance to handle some genuine roman artefacts. When: 1.15-3.15pm Free (no booking necessary) Guildhall Art Gallery and London’s Roman Amphitheatre Guildhall Yard EC2V 5AE www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/ amphitheatre 020 7332 1692
31 Walks and Talks
28 June
10 June
Beating the Bounds As part of the London Festival of Architecture, St Lawrence Jewry invites you to explore the old parish boundaries within the City, especially those of St Lawrence Jewry. Following a talk by Canon David Parrott, there will be an optional walk tracing the boundaries of the City Corporation’s municipal Church. When: 6pm Admission: £15 St Lawrence Jewry Guildhall Yard EC2V 5AA www.stlawrencejewry.org.uk 020 7600 9478
18 June
The Weimar Republic: Germany’s First Democracy A century has passed since the establishment of the ill-fated Weimar Republic, founded in August 1919 and superseded 14 years later by the Nazi dictatorship. Sir Richard Evans, one of the world’s foremost authorities on modern German history, asks why the Republic failed in its attempt to make Germany democratic, and what lessons can be learned for the future of democracy in the 21st century. When: 6-7pm Free, last admission 6.10pm if seats remain Museum of London 150 London Wall EC2Y 5HN www.gresham.ac.uk/attend 020 7831 0575
A talk from the leading authority on the Huguenots in Britain, examining why the French Huguenot refugees had a significant part to play in the Bank of England’s foundation and the close ties between the Bank and its near neighbour in Threadneedle Street, the original and largest of the French churches in London in the 1690s. Free Bank of England Museum Bartholomew Lane EC2R 8AH www.huguenotsofspitalfields.org 020 7247 0367
6 July
Arab British Filmmakers in Conversation As part of Shubbak, London’s largest biennial festival of contemporary Arab culture, a multi-award winning panel of Arab-British directors discuss how they interpret their hyphenated identities and how this impacts the stories they tell and films they make. Panellists include Sally El Hossaini (My Brother The Devil), Naziha Arebi (Freedom Fields), Amrou Al Kadhi (Run(a) way Arab, Anemone), Claire Belhassine (The Man Behind The Microphone), Saeed Taji Farouky (The Runner, Tell Spring Not To Come This Year) and Mustapha Kseibati (Skateboards and Spandex, Painkiller). When: 4pm Admission: £7 Barbican Cinema Silk Street EC2Y 8DS www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on 020 7638 8891
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Robin Gwynn Talk: Bank of England Museum
13 July
Huguenot Footsteps: Clerkenwell
City Tour: Engineering the Square Mile
Although not as well-known as the Spitalfields and Soho settlements, Clerkenwell was another of the London areas where many outstanding Huguenot craftsmen settled. Discover something of what they found there and what they brought to a locality that was fast becoming a London suburb on the very doorstep of the City. As well as weavers, you will also hear about the skills of the clock and watchmakers, engravers and silversmiths. When: 11am Admission: £10 Outside Farringdon Station www.huguenotsofspitalfields.org 020 7247 0367
The City is home to many spectacular and celebrated feats of engineering, from the new Crossrail network to the bridges that span the River Thames. Join a knowledgeable City guide for this one-off walking tour exploring the history and future of engineering in the Square Mile. The route will take in key achievements including Holborn Viaduct and Blackfriars bridge, both of which celebrate their 150th anniversaries this year. When: 2-3.30pm Admission: £18, £14 concs The City Centre 80 Basinghall Street EC2V 5AR www.thecitycentre.london 020 7600 8362
11 July
A PAC KED SEASON OF EV ENTS C E LEBRATING ARC H ITECTURE, ENG I NEERING AND I NV ENTION
31 MAY - 1 D E C E M B ER 2 01 9
cityoflondon.gov.uk/fantasticfeats