OCTOBER
Highlights
Andris Nelsons Come and see Andris Nelsons conduct his debut London concerts as Kapellmeister (Music Director) of the great Gewandhausorchester Leipzig.
Director of the critically acclaimed Boston Symphony Orchestra in 2014, and Kapellmeister of the Gewandhausorchester Leipzig in 2018.
This pair of concerts focus on Mahler’s magnificent First Symphony and much-loved Fifth Symphony. We also feature music by Bernd Alois Zimmermann, a selection of richly lyrical arias and orchestral interludes from some of Tchaikovsky’s best loved operas, and the UK premiere of a new work, Māra, from the rising Latvian composer Andris Dzenitis.
Germany’s oldest orchestra outside the royal court, the Gewandhausorchester has been playing for 275 years, and its roster of previous Kapellmeisters includes such famous names as Felix Mendelssohn, Wilhelm Furtwängler, Bruno Walter, and more recently Kurt Masur and Riccardo Chailly. It performs frequently at the Thomaskirche in Leipzig, where Johann Sebastian Bach was the music director until his death in 1750.
Nelsons, who first rose to fame at the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, became Music
China Changing Festival
London Literature Festival
Link Link by Isabella Rossellini
Salman Rushdie: From Midnight’s Children to Trump’s America
James Holden & The Animal Spirits
Space Shifters
Catch the final edition of our three-year festival showcasing contemporary China, and its creative connection with the UK, through cutting-edge art and culture. Thursday 4 – Sunday 7 October.
Hear from the author of daring and enduring fiction, Sir Salman Rushdie, on his life in writing and his latest novel, The Golden House, a satirical anatomy of contemporary American politics.
Now in its twelfth year, Southbank Centre’s festival brings together today’s leading writers and thinkers from Thursday 18 to Sunday 28 October. This year we celebrate Homer’s Odyssey and delve into the political landscapes of contemporary America.
Go on a folk-trance trip with electronic music producer James Holden and his expanded band, playing tracks from their new synth-led album The Animal Spirits, with brass, wind and live percussion.
Celebrated actress and filmmaker Isabella Rossellini is joined on stage by her dog, Pan, in this theatrical lecture with a comic twist inspired by scientific discoveries about animal intelligence.
Hayward Gallery’s new exhibition brings together work by artists including Larry Bell, Anish Kapoor and Yayoi Kusama, on the theme of space disruption and alteration. It features site-specific commissions that respond to the gallery’s brutalist architecture.
Daily listings
Monday 1 Dragon Babies – Gamelan for 3 – 5 year olds Shake, rattle and gong with your little ones.
11am; Gamelan Room, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; £5 (child and accompanying adult(s))
Yazz Ahmed
Contemporary jazz gets revamped and revitalised by the trumpet and flugelhorn star. 7.30pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15
Tuesday 2 The Blind Poet by Needcompany
Needcompany make a rare visit to the UK with this engagingly unorthodox piece of theatre exploring identity, immigration and acceptance. 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £18 – £24
Ssing Ssing
Give in to glitter at a live performance from the glamrocking Korean band. 7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15
Wednesday 3 Llyr Williams: Beethoven, Schumann & Brahms
Llyr Williams makes his International Piano Series debut in the season’s opening concert. Beethoven 32 Variations on an Original Theme in C minor, WoO.80; Schumann Humoreske in B flat, Op.20; Brahms Theme and variations in D minor arr. for piano from String Sextet No.1 in B flat, Op.18; Sonata No.3 in F minor, Op.5 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £10 – £45
Sophie Ellis-Bextor Live In Concert with Orchestra
Be swept away as the disco diva performs her hits backed by a full live orchestra for the first time. 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; £30 – £65
Poetry and the Political
Carcanet poets ask what kind of difference poetry can make.
Key Art Performance & dance Classical music Literature Archive studio Gigs & contemporary music Talks & topics Eat & explore There are no transaction fees for in-person bookings or Southbank Centre Members and Supporters Circles. For all other bookings transaction fees apply: £3 online; £3.50 over the phone. If you wish to receive tickets in the post, a £1 delivery charge applies. * Book free events at southbankcentre.co.uk ** Supporter tickets include a voluntary donation of 10% of the standard admission charge, to support Southbank Centre’s work. For more information and to find out about Gift Aid, see southbankcentre.co.uk.
8pm; National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Free*
Thursday 4 Schools National Poetry Day Live
Calling all 11- to 18-year-olds – join a poetry revolution in this free afternoon event for secondary schools. 1pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free*
National Poetry Day Live
Join us at this free evening of radical poetry looking at this year’s theme of ‘change’. 5pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
Steve Hackett Genesis Revisited – Band with Orchestra The former Genesis lead guitarist returns to an orchestral format with his electric band. 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; £34.50 – £49.50
Wen Hui’s RED
A live dance documentary looking back at a once famous Chinese ballet and the Cultural Revolution from choreographer Wen Hui. Part of China Changing Festival. 7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £20
James Holden & The Animal Spirits
Go on a folk-trance trip with electronic music producer James Holden and his new, bigger band. 8pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £20 – £25
Friday 5 Rug Rhymes
A short session of nursery rhymes and poems for under-5s and their carers. 10.30am; National Poetry Library Reading Den, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Southbank Centre Food Market: China Changing Festival
Have you eaten yet? Sample dishes from China’s most popular cuisines. 12 noon; Southbank Centre Square, Belvedere Road; Free
Reflections - Schools Poetry Reading
Poet Jennifer Wong shares the creative responses of students of Mandarin to the themes of China Changing Festival. 12.30pm; Central Bar, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Friday Lunch: Coalesce: Guqin & Piano
Sounds different? You’re listening to the world’s first compositions combining guqin and piano. Part of China Changing Festival. 1pm; Central Bar, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Friday Tonic: Lu Sisi: The Age of Digital / Analogue
Come on an audio-visual journey across the UK exploring the connection between industry and landscape from the perspective of Chinese artist North of X. Part of China Changing Festival. 6pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Ways of Being Together – Discussion
What is community? Pull up a chair for a table discussion on ways of belonging with choreographer Jo Fong. Part of China Changing Festival. 6pm; Sunley Pavilion, Level 3, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; Free*
Bryn Terfel
The renowned Welsh opera singer performs his favourite arias and popular songs. Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Programme includes: Mozart Non più andrai from The Marriage of Figaro; Madamina, il catalogo e questo (Catalogue aria) from Don Giovanni; Wagner Leb wohl, du kuhnes, herrliches Kind! (Wotan’s farewell) from Die Walküre, Act 3; Verdi L’onore! Ladri! (Honour! You rogues!) from Falstaff; Traditional Oh Shenandoah; Spiritual Deep river; Bock If I were a Rich Man from Fiddler on the Roof 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; £20 – £90
BBC Concert Orchestra: Julian Joseph’s Tristan and Isolde The world premiere of a contemporary reworking of the legend of Tristan and Isolde. Clark Rundell conductor Carleen Anderson singer Ken Papenfus singer Christine Tobin singer Cleveland Watkiss singer Julian Joseph Trio Members of the Julian Joseph All Star Big Band BBC Singers 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £12 – £25
Wen Hui’s RED 7.45pm; see Thu 4 Oct for more details.
Saturday 6 Southbank Centre Food Market: China Changing Festival 11am; see Fri 5 Oct for more details.
Tree Mantra
Witness art in the making as artist Charwei Tsai transcribes a Buddhist text on the trunk of a tree in Chinese calligraphy. 11am; Green Side Foyer, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Dust Carpet
Ya-Chu Kang presents a live, largescale art intervention inspired by the artist’s research into the history of the UK’s textile industry. 11am; Green Side Foyer, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Mahler’s Symphonies 1 and 5
Discover the stories behind the music in this study day as part of the What You Need to Know series. 12 noon; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; £25
RethINKING Tradition
Be drawn into a world of ink and movement in a performance piece inspired by Chinese calligraphy. Part of China Changing Festival. 1pm & 4.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Used to Mud?
A five-hour live performance piece with dance and illustration. Part of China Changing Festival. 1.30pm; Cloakroom Foyer, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Calligraphy Workshop
Put pen to paper in a free workshop on the ancient art of calligraphy. Part of China Changing Festival. 1.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Citizens of Nowhere?
Listen in on an intimate conversation between a British Chinese family in a site-specific drama. Part of China Changing Festival.
Howie Lee plus Thoid and Veeky
Lose yourself in electronic music from Beijing-based visionary Howie Lee. Part of China Changing Festival. 8.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
Ken Cheng: Best Dad Ever
Comedian Ken Cheng shares the story of his unusual upbringing in the UK. Part of China Changing Festival.
2pm and 4pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; £10
9.30pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £10
BBC Concert Orchestra: Julian Joseph’s Tristan and Isolde
Hyph11e B2B Scintii and Wang Newone
2pm; see Fri 5 Oct for more details.
Ways of Being Together – Movement Workshop
Move as a body in a playful workshop that investigates belonging through movement, led by director, choreographer and performer Jo Fong. Part of China Changing Festival. 2pm; Blue Room, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; Free*
DRAG Tour
A guided tour of the exhibition DRAG: Self-portraits and Body Politics led by drag performer That Ray. 3pm; HENI Project Space, Hayward Gallery; Free
Dance Workshop
Write with your body at a contemporary dance workshop inspired by the art of calligraphy. Part of China Changing Festival. 3.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Art and the Practice of Sustainability
Art to live by: hear artists Charwei Tsai and Ya-chu Kang discuss how their works engage with nature. Part of China Changing Festival. 4pm; Sunley Pavilion, Level 3, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; Free*
Bite-size China: Tiny Tastes of Regional Cuisine Taste your way around China at a workshop on the flavours of regional cuisines. Part of China Changing Festival.
Join us for a late-night slice of Shanghai’s club scene, with bass-heavy music from Scintii and Hyph11e. Part of China Changing Festival. 9.35pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
Sunday 7 The Sea
Children are invited to dive in to the tale of a small fish in a big sea, told through enchanting puppetry. Part of China Changing Festival. For ages 3 – 6. 11am & 12.30pm; Blue Room, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; £5 (child), £8 (adult)
Morning Papers: On China
Start your Sunday with a look at the headlines as Emilie Wang and Paul French share today’s news of China, as part of China Changing Festival.
7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; £10 – £65; Royal Festival Hall at 6.15pm: pre-concert talk, free
Witness a dialogue between pianist Rosey Chan and dancer Chi Katsura, echoed by filmic images of their own movements. Part of China Changing Festival. 3pm; Royal Festival Hall; Free*
Chinese Sci-Fi
What can Chinese sci-fi novels tell us about the country’s anxieties and fantasies? With sci-fi author Wang Yao (aka Xia Jia). Part of China Changing Festival. 4.30pm; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; Included in Talks Pass (£20)
The Injustice to Tou O
Shudder to a 13th-century supernatural tale of love and intrigue in this multi-media performance. Part of China Changing Festival. 5pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £12
The Empress and Me
Cloud Fashion Workshops
Learn more about upcycling to create new fashion in events inspired by Tim Yip’s design, as part of China Changing Festival. 2pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Southbank Centre Food Market: China Changing Festival 12 noon; see Fri 5 Oct for more details.
The Rise of China’s Feminist Resistance
12 noon; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; Included in Talks Pass (£20)
Vladimir Jurowski brings two Greek myths to life. Vladimir Jurowski conductor Beethoven The Creatures of Prometheus, ballet music; Stravinsky Orpheus, ballet music
Rosey Chan: Confluence
5.30pm; Blue Room, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; £10
Emmy the Great with Dfu
London Philharmonic Orchestra: Divine Fire
3pm; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; Included in Talks Pass (£20)
11.30am; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; Included in Talks Pass (£20)
5.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
7pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £20
As America withdraws from the Paris Agreement, all eyes are on China when it comes to climate change. With environmental lawyers Wanlin Wang and James Thornton and writer Isabel Hilton. Part of China Changing Festival.
This one-woman show introduces Princess Der Ling, lady-in-waiting to the infamous Empress Cixi. Part of China Changing Festival.
Journalist Leta Hong Fincher charts the rise of the current feminist movement in China, as part of China Changing Festival.
Singer-songwriter Emmy the Great shares the story of a life-changing trip to China. Part of China Changing Festival.
Can China Take the Lead on Climate Change?
A Hero Reborn: the Work of Jin Yong
Get stuck into the work of Jin Yong, ‘the Chinese JRR Tolkien’, in this panel with playwright Amy Ng, editor Paul Engles and radio presenter Dee Lo. Part of China Changing Festival. 1.30pm; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; Included in Talks Pass (£20)
Citizens of Nowhere? 2pm & 4pm; see Sat 6 Oct for more details.
Red INK
See calligraphy reimagined as hiphop and contemporary dance in this piece about dissident artists. Part of China Changing Festival. 2.30pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £10
Cloud Show
Academy Award winning designer Tim Yip presents 25 spectacular costumes inspired by global diversity, as part of China Changing Festival. 6pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Monday 8 Dragon Babies – Gamelan for 3 – 5 year olds 11am; see Mon 1 Oct for more details.
Gong Babies
Join this relaxing music workshop aimed at parents, carers and noncrawling babies. 2pm; Gamelan Room, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; £5 for one baby and accompanying adults
Andris Nelsons and the Gewandhausorchester Leipzig
One of the oldest and greatest orchestras perform some of the most emotional music ever written. Håkan Hardenberger trumpet Zimmermann Nobody knows de trouble I see (Trumpet Concerto); Mahler Symphony No.5 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; £20 – £75. The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall at 9.30pm: Post-concert event. Southbank Centre’s Director of Music Gillian Moore discusses the evening’s programme with conductor Andris Nelsons and trumpet soloist Håkan Hardenberger. Admission free.
Tuesday 9 Step Into Autumn - October Tea Dance
Take the floor at our free monthly tea dance, for dancers at all levels. 1.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Andris Nelsons and the Gewandhausorchester Leipzig
Experience one of the oldest and greatest orchestras in the world. Andris Nelsons Gewandhauskapellmeister Kristine Opolais soprano Andris Dzenitis Mara for orchestra (UK premiere); Tchaikovsky Liza’s arioso from The Queen of Spades; Tatyana’s Letter Scene and Polonaise from Eugene Onegin; Mahler Symphony No.1 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; £20 – £75
Wednesday 10 London Philharmonic Orchestra: Concerto for Orchestra
Exiled from his beloved Hungary, Bartók was lonely, impoverished and critically ill. His response? Karina Canellakis conductor Pierre-Laurent Aimard piano Sibelius Pohjola’s daughter; Dvořák Piano Concerto; Bartók Concerto for Orchestra 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; £10 – £65
Poppy Ackroyd
Experience the progressive new album from this rising star of postclassical music. 8pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15
Thursday 11 International Day of the Girl 2018
Secondary school girls (aged 13 to 18) are invited to dive into a day of inspiring and empowering workshops and activities, including Speed Mentoring on the London Eye. 7.30am; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; £5 per student. To book or enquire, call our group ticket line on 020 7960 4225
The English Concert: 45th Anniversary Concert
Be transported by members of the Bach family and Mozart at an evening marking 45 years of The English Concert. Kristian Bezuidenhout director, fortepiano CPE Bach Symphony in C, Wq.182/3; Johann Christian Bach Symphony in G minor, Op.6 No.6; CPE Bach Harpsichord Concerto in D minor, Wq.23; Mozart Piano Trio in B flat, K.502; Symphony No.29 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £16 – £49
MEMBERS GET MORE Priority booking
Be first in line to book tickets for blockbuster events, concerts and festivals.
Hayward Gallery
Free entry to all exhibitions and invitations Members’ private views.
Members Area
Enjoy stunning river views in an exclusive cafe-bar.
Save Money
Save 20% at Southbank Centre Shops.
Join now from ÂŁ65
Paul Weller with Orchestra
Be in the presence of the Modfather at two concerts showcasing his new album and career classics with live orchestra. 8pm; Royal Festival Hall; £50 – £75
Friday 12 Rug Rhymes 10.30am; see Fri 5 Oct for more details.
Friday Lunch
Enjoy your lunch break with some free music. 1pm; Central Bar, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Teacher’s Twilight Session: Space Shifters Exhibition
Teachers are invited to a free evening exploring our new Hayward Gallery exhibition. 4.30pm; Blue Bar, Level 4, Royal Festival Hall; Free*
Friday Tonic
Take in a free performance with a drink before the weekend. 5.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
Paul Weller with Orchestra 8pm; see Thu 11 Oct for more details.
Saturday 13 Behind the Pipes
Get up close and personal with the Royal Festival Hall organ. 3pm; Royal Festival Hall; £12
Gamelan Kreasi with Gondrong Gunarto
A workshop for experienced gamelan musicians aged 16+ to explore contemporary Javanese arrangements and composition. 3pm; Gamelan Room, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; £5
Pascal Dusapin in Conversation
Composer Pascal Dusapin talks about his dance-opera ahead of tonight’s performance. 3.30pm; Level 3 Function Room, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Free*
Composers’ Collective Open Rehearsal
Composers are invited to attend the final hour of rehearsal before tonight’s performance of Passion. 5pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Free*
Music Theatre Wales and National Dance Company Wales present Passion
Pascal Dusapin explores loss and desire in his sensuous danceopera. Geoffrey Paterson conductor Jennifer France soprano, Her Johnny Herford baritone, Him EXAUDI Vocal Ensemble Michael McCarthy director Caroline Finn director Simon Banham designer Joe Fletcher lighting Sound Intermedia Pascal Dusapin Passion for soprano, baritone, chorus & orchestra 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £18 – £30
London Philharmonic Orchestra: Life, Death and Shameless Excess Experience Carl Orff’s showstopping choral masterpiece Carmina Burana. Jérémie Rhorer conductor Louise Alder soprano Toby Spence tenor Simon Keenlyside baritone London Philharmonic Choir Tiffin Boys’ Choir Poulenc Stabat mater; Orff Carmina Burana 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; £10 – £65
Muriel Spark Centenary Concert
The Nash Ensemble presents chamber music masterworks. Stephanie Gonley violin Michael Gurevich violin Lawrence Power viola Adrian Brendel cello Ian Brown piano with Victoria Simmonds mezzo-soprano Mozart Piano Quartet in G minor, K.478; David Matthews White flame for voice, piano & string quartet (text Muriel Spark) (World premiere); Brahms 2 Songs for mezzo-soprano, viola & piano, Op.91; Dvořák Piano Quintet No.2 in A, Op.81 7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15 – £30; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall at 6pm: pre-concert talk. Hear about Muriel Spark’s creative life, from a panel made up of sculptor Penelope Jardine, composer David Matthews, actress Hannah Gordon and Alan Taylor, author of Appointment in Arezzo – a friendship with Muriel Spark. Admission free
Sunday 14 FUNharmonics: The Highway Rat
Take your seat for Julia Donaldson’s The Highway Rat, screened with live music from the London Philharmonic Orchestra. René Aubry The Highway Rat – film score 12 noon; Royal Festival Hall; £6 – £10 (child); £12 – £20 (adults). Free FUNharmonics activities 10am – 12 noon
Alexander Ardakov Piano Recital: Great Romantic Pieces
Marking the Queen’s 92nd birthday with immortal romantic masterpieces and Beethoven. D. Scarlatti Sonata in D minor, Kk.9; Sonata in F minor, Kk.466; Sonata in E, Kk.380; Sonata in C, Kk.159; Rameau Tambourin in E minor from Pièces de clavecin; Daquin Le coucou from Pièces de clavecin, Bk.3; Beethoven Sonata in D minor, Op.31 No.2 (Tempest); 7 Variations in C on ‘God Save the King’, WoO.78; Mendelssohn Rondo capriccioso in E, Op.14; Schumann Carnaval, Op.9 4pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £10 – £20
2018 Man Booker Prize Readings
Meet the 2018 Man Booker Prize shortlist in an evening of readings and conversation. 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; £15 – £35
Monday 15 Dragon Babies – Gamelan for 3 – 5 year olds 11am, see Mon 1 Oct for more details.
The Musicians’ Company Concerts 2018
Hear an unusual blend of brass from A4 Brass Quartet, plus emerging mezzo soprano Ida Ränzlöv. Lucy Colquhoun piano Jonathan Bates Toccata; Bernstein Overture, Candide; Bruckner Locus iste; Bartók Romanian folk dances; Bramwell Tovey 4th Movement from Street Songs; Sibelius Den första kyssen (The first kiss), Op.37 No.1; Hugo Alfven Saa tag mit Hjerte (So take my heart); Gunnar de Frumerie När du sluter mina ögen (When you close my eyes); Sven Sjogren I drömmen du är mig nära (In the dream you’re near me); Korngold 3 Lieder, Op.22; Ravel Oh! La pitoyable aventure from L’heure espagnole; Ture Rangström Vingar i natten (Wing in the night); Flickan under Nymanen (The girl under the new moon); En gammal dansrytm (Old dance); Pan; Brahms Von ewiger Liebe, Op.43 No.1; Unbewegte Luft, Op.57 No.8; Oliver Waespi 1st Movement from South Uist Variations; Thomas Doss Moskito; Kentaro Sato Tsunangari (Connection) for chorus; Callum Harrison kinesis; Jonathan Bates Tale of two peaks from Mists of the Mountains 7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £10 – £20
Tuesday 16 Bach and the Cosmos: Bach Remixed
City of London Sinfonia explore Bach’s music and his use of maths and numbers. City of London Sinfonia Roderick Williams director, baritone Alexandra Wood director, violin Daniel Bates oboe Epiphoni Consort James Sparks mathematician JS Bach Komm, süsser Tod, BWV.478; Nystedt Immortal Bach (on Bach’s Komm, süsser Tod, BWV.478); JS Bach Ricercare a 3; Ricercar a 6; Excerpts from A Musical Offering; Brandenburg Concerto No.3; Motet, Singet dem Herrn, BWV.225; Roderick Williams Enough for oboe; JS Bach Cantata No.82 `Ich habe genug’ 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £10 – £30
Charlotte Bray: Chamber Music
Wednesday 17 Nana Mouskouri in Concert
The legendary chanson singer, known for hits such as ‘The White Rose of Athens’ and ‘Only Love’ returns to London for a single show of greatest hits. 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; £45 – £65
Dakhabrakha
At the crossroads of Ukrainian folklore and theatre stand this Ukrainian quartet. 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £25
Thursday 18 Pram Jam: Words and Rhymes Enjoy a fun session with your little ones, led by storytellers.
10.30am; Blue Bar, Level 4, Royal Festival Hall; £5 (child and up to two accompanying adults)
An Evening with Roger Daltrey Hear the inside story of the rise of British rock from Roger Daltrey, as he publishes his memoir. 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; £30 – £50
Cristina Ortiz: Chopin
‘Lioness of the piano’ [Wprost] Cristina Ortiz returns to the International Piano Series. Chopin Fantaisie in F minor, Op.49; Sonata No.2 in B flat minor, Op.35; York Bowen Preludes, Op.102 Nos.1, 6, 7, 10, 11 & 12; Chopin Etudes, Op.25 Nos.1, 5, 7 & 12; Barcarolle in F sharp, Op.60; Polonaise in A flat, Op.53 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £10 – £45
In Search of a Better Life: Esi Edugyan & Aida Edemariam Go on a voyage of discovery with characters who are looking for a better life.
7.45pm; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; £15
Olga Tokarczuk in Conversation
The Man Booker International winning author launches her latest novel, an unconventional thriller with an eccentric sleuth. 7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £18
Friday 19 Rug Rhymes 10.30am; see Fri 5 Oct for more details.
Schools Day: London Literature Festival
Discover The Odyssey, a mythical world of gods, giants and sirens, in this day for primary schools.
The Mariani Piano Quartet joins forces with pianist Huw Watkins. Charlotte Bray Beyond for violin; Invisible Cities for viola & piano; Emilie Mayer Piano Quartet No.2 in G; Charlotte Bray Oneiroi for piano; On The Other Shore for cello; Züstande for piano quartet and an interview with Huw Watkins and Barbara Buntrock.
10.30am; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £2 per student (£1 per student at Lambeth schools). Tutors and chaperones go free: to book or enquire call our group ticket line on 0207 960 4225.
7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15 – £20
1pm; Central Bar, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Friday Lunch: Bridget Minamore
The poet shares her work imagining the future of literature, at a reading that features both poetry and dystopian short fiction.
Friday Tonic: Heaux Noire
Heaux Noire present womxn of colour sharing their stories through poetry and music.
Madeline Miller Masterclass on Rewriting Myth
5.30pm; Queen Elizabeth hall Foyer; Free
Breathe new life into mythic characters at a writing masterclass led by Madeline Miller.
Slay in Your Lane
2pm; Level 3 Function Room, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; £35
An inspirational, honest and provocative take on navigating life as a black British woman. 7pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £12
An Evening with Sally Field The celebrated actor tells her extraordinary story as she publishes her memoir.
Marilynne Robinson in Conversation
The US novelist and essayist reflects on hope and generosity in tumultuous times. 2pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15 – £25
Men of Myth
The Odyssey Live Reading
Hear the ultimate oral poem, The Odyssey, performed by an all-star cast, in an event inspired by Emily Wilson’s new translation. 4pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £20
Chibundu Onuzo: 1991
The writer, musician and singer tells the story of her life through narrative, music, song and dance. 6.30pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £12
Poetic Odysseys
7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £25 – £35
How do myths shape our masculinity?
Three poets present new work in response to National Poetry Library Open Day.
Constructing Spaces Opening
2pm, Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall. £15
8pm; National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Free*
Hear contemporary responses to poet WS Graham at the launch of this exhibition celebrating his life and work.
7.30pm; National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Free*
London Philharmonic Orchestra: Moscow Nights
Benjamin Grosvenor performs Rachmaninoff’s much-loved Piano Concerto No. 2 in an all-Russian programme. Alondra de la Parra conductor Benjamin Grosvenor piano Glinka Overture, Ruslan and Lyudmila; Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No.2; Tchaikovsky Symphony No.5 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; £10 – £65; Royal Festival Hall at 6.15pm; pre-concert talk; Free
Saturday 20 Family Gamelan Taster Session
Bring your family and friends to play our Javanese gamelan percussion orchestra. For ages 6+ 11am & 2pm, Gamelan Room, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; £10
Finding Your Voice Workshop with E Lockhart Hit the right notes with tools for finding your authorial voice.
11am; Level 3 Function Room, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; £35
Terrance Hayes & Sarah Churchwell on American Dreams
Examine the first 200 days of Trump’s presidency and how America’s history led here. 12 noon; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15
Weaving an Odyssey
Learn to weave a tapestry and find out more about the character of Penelope in this drop-in workshop.
What Makes a Man?
Unpack the rites, friendships, conflicts and intimacies that make a man. 3.30pm; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; £15
Women Rewriting Homer: Madeline Miller & Sharlene Teo
See Homer through women’s eyes at a discussion between writers who have interpreted his work. 5pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £18
Carol Ann Duffy and Friends
On the publication of her final collection as poet laureate, Sincerity, Carol Ann Duffy appears with Imtiaz Dharker, Mark Pajak and Keith Hutson. 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15
Polari: First Book Prize
The beloved literary salon returns to celebrate some of the best in LGBTQ+ writing for 2018. 7.30pm; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; £5
Akala and David Olusoga: Striking the Empire
Dissect the roots of modern Britain by examining the making and unmaking of civilisations and cultures. 8pm; Royal Festival Hall; £10 – £30
Sunday 21 National Poetry Library Open Day: Odysseys
Set off on a journey into the heart of modern poetry at our open day on the theme of odysseys.
Wake up your body, mind and mouths with a wordy warm-up led by poet, performer and writer Maria Ferguson. Suitable for all the family. 10.30am; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Dragon Babies – Gamelan for 3 – 5 year olds 11am; see Mon 1 Oct for more details.
Dead Reckoning
Contribute to a growing sewn installation exploring migration and refuge, home and family with artist Bern O’Donoghue, in a work acknowledging the people behind migration statistics. 11am; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
The Bolds with Julian Clary & David Roberts Join writer Julian Clary and illustrator David Roberts with another hilarious tale from The Bolds.
2pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £6 (child) £12 (adult)
Bedtime Stories
Relax and listen to a story at the end of your day at London Literature Festival. Stories are chosen and read by a different person each day. 3.45pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Poets of the Harlem Renaissance
Stories and Songs from the Seven Seas
Enjoy a storytelling and music performance inspired by the sea and the natural world, with gentle audience participation and curated by folk club The Nest Collective. 11.30am & 2pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Nadia Shireen: Billy and the Beast
Join bestselling author and illustrator Nadia Shireen for a noisy storytime session with live drawing, for ages 4+. 2pm; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; £6 (child), £12 (adult)
Bedtime Stories 3.45pm; see Mon 22 Oct for more details.
And the Air Sang: 20 Years of Foyle Young Poets
Join us for readings by a gathering of ten Foyle Young Poets from the Poetry Society. 7pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £10
Revolution, Past and Future Legacies: SI Leeds Prize For Women of Colour
Reflect on powerful women writers of colour and the presses that publish them at this panel discussion. 7pm; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; £10
Link Link by Isabella Rossellini Catch the UK premiere of Isabella Rossellini’s new one-woman (and one dog) show. 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £28 – £34
Salman Rushdie: From Midnight’s Children to Trump’s America The celebrated author of compulsive, daring and enduring fiction on his life in writing. 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; £15 – £25
Broken
Poet julianknxx asks big questions about love, masculinity and social justice, with added live music. 7.30pm; Blue Room, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; £10
Wednesday 24
Celebrate Black History Month this October with the wonderful work of the Harlem Renaissance poets.
Rise and Rhyme
Weaving an Odyssey
6.30pm; National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Free*
Dragon Babies – Gamelan for 3 – 5 year olds
André Aciman: Enigma Variations
11am, see Mon 1 Oct for more details.
12 noon; see Sat 20 Oct for more details.
Tales from the Odyssey
Tales from the Odyssey
12.30pm & 2.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
Rise and Rhyme
11am; see Sat 20 Oct for more details.
12 noon; St Paul’s Roof Pavilion, Level 6, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Free
12 noon; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
Discover the story of Odysseus and his adventures during his voyage home in a captivating storytelling performance with Wendy Shearer.
Monday 22
Family Gamelan Taster Session
12.30pm & 2.30pm; see Sat 20 Oct for more details.
An Introduction to The Odyssey
Who is Odysseus, anyway? Find out from our panel, chaired by cult classicist Mary Beard. 2pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15
Uncover the intrigues of the heart at a reading of the new novel by the author of Call Me By Your Name. 7.30pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £18
Tuesday 23 Pram Jam: Words and Rhymes 10.30am; see Thu 18 Oct for more details. £5 (child and up to two accompanying adults)
Rise and Rhyme 10.30am; see Mon 22 Oct for more details.
10.30am; see Mon 22 Oct for more details.
The Puppet Odyssey
Learn about the gods and goddesses, monsters and ghosts of The Odyssey and have a go at making your own shadow puppet with puppet artist Chloe Purcell. 11am; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Family Gamelan Taster Session 2pm; see Sat 20 Oct for more details.
‘STUNNING…
‘HEART-STOPPING.
DELICIOUSLY TURN OF THE CENTURY…
A GREAT NIGHT’S
ENTERTAINMENT’
ASTONISHING’
SYDNEY MORNING HERALD
LA TIMES
CHRISTMAS SEASON |
Circus1903.com
|
19 DEC 2018 – 5 JAN 2019
Laura Dockrill: Angry Cookie
The performer, writer and poet brings the angry cookie to life in an event for ages 3+. 2pm; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; £6 (child), £12 (adult)
Bedtime Stories 3.45pm; see Mon 22 Oct for more details.
Gamelan Taster Workshop
Get an introduction to the Javanese gamelan percussion orchestra. For ages 18+. 6.30pm; Gamelan Room, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; £10
London Philharmonic Orchestra: French Fancies
Be whisked to France with Gershwin’s jazz-infused An American in Paris. Enrique Mazzola conductor Anna Caterina Antonacci soprano Berlioz Roman Carnival Overture; Canteloube Songs of the Auvergne; Bizet Symphony in C; Gershwin An American in Paris 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; £10 – £65
Link Link by Isabella Rossellini 7.30pm; see Tue 23 Oct for more details.
Voices From Prisons
Hear performances of written and recorded works produced in the criminal justice system. 7.30pm; Blue Room, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; £8
Emirati Poets in London
Much-lauded Emirati poets Nujoom Alghanem, Ali Al Shaali and Salam Al Attas read their work in Arabic and English. 8pm; National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Free*
Thursday 25
Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment: Apollo and Daphne
An evening of pure Handelian fun. Jonathan Cohen conductor Katherine Watson soprano James Newby baritone Handel Suite from The Alchemist; Manfredini Concerto grosso in D, Op.3 No.9; Handel Concerto grosso in A minor, Op.6 No.4; Cantata, Apollo e Dafne (La terra è liberata) 7pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £10 – £60
Somali Women Poets: the Next Generation
A Great Big Poetry Workshop
It’s rhyme time! Have a go at writing your own poems in a creative workshop led by a poet. 11am; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Let’s Get Gobby!
Experience performances by children’s poets and the thrill of the spotlight in our children’s open mic. 2pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Knights and Bikes
Gabrielle Kent, author of the Alfie Bloom series, introduces her new mystery novel for ages 8+. 2pm; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; £6 (child), £12 (adult)
Bedtime Stories 3.45pm; see Mon 22 Oct for more details.
Hear hidden stories from twelve prize-winning new writers at an event presented by Lemn Sissay.
6.45pm; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; £5
Olafur Eliasson: Experience
7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15 – £25
Philharmonia Orchestra: Brian Tyler Returns – Live in Concert Brian Tyler conducts the Philharmonia in some of his most famous Hollywood scores. Programme includes: Music from The Mummy, Power Rangers, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Thor: The Dark World, Fast and Furious and many more 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; £15 – £65
Melvyn Bragg and Simon Tillotson: In Our Time
In his time: the broadcaster reflects on the enduring appeal of In Our Time. 7.30pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £22
Friday 26
Saturday 27 Rise and Rhyme 10.30am; see Mon 22 Oct for more details.
Southbank Sinfonia Family Concert
If an opera is like a great film, then an overture is its trailer. Holly Mathieson conductor Beethoven Overture, The Creatures of Prometheus; Mendelssohn Overture, The Hebrides (Fingal’s Cave); Mozart Overture, The Marriage of Figaro; Sir Peter Maxwell Davies Ojai Festival Overture 11.30am; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £4 (child), £8 (adult)
Young Adult Lit Day
Bedtime Stories 3.45pm; see Mon 22 Oct for more details.
Love in America with Adam Silvera and Becky Albertalli
Uncover the reality of living and loving in America today from the collaborative authors. 4.15pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Included in Pass (£12)
YA Poets’ Showcase
Poets Anita Barton-Williams, Eleanor Penny and Leke Alabi share their work in the finale to Young Adult Lit Day. 5.30pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Included in Pass (£12)
London Philharmonic Orchestra: Little Solemn Mass Enjoy the brilliant operatic solos and irresistible tunes of Rossini’s choral masterpiece. Gustavo Gimeno conductor Elizabeth Watts soprano Sara Mingardo contralto Kenneth Tarver tenor Luca Pisaroni bass London Philharmonic Choir Rossini Petite messe solennelle 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; £10 – £65
Soraya Chemaly and Laura Bates: Feminism in Trump’s America
Get angry at a discussion on the power of rage in the fight against misogyny. 7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15
Sunday 28
Rise and Rhyme
Join us at London Literature Festival for the best in young adult fiction.
10.30am; see Mon 22 Oct for more details.
11.45am; Royal Festival Hall; Day Pass £12
Dragon Babies – Gamelan for 3 – 5 year olds
Enjoy the most British of treats in the Members Area.
Visions of Latin America: Featuring Samanta Schweblin
1.30pm & 3.30pm; Members Area, Level 6, Royal Festival Hall; £23.50 – £32.50
Rap Workshop
11am; see Sat 20 Oct for more details.
Lemn Sissay Presents Creative Future Literary Awards
7pm; Blue Room, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; £10
10.30am; see Thu 18 Oct for more details. £5 (child and up to two accompanying adults)
Family Gamelan Taster Session
5.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
The Danish-Icelandic artist opens a window onto his practice and asks how art can create change.
11am; see Mon 1 Oct for more details.
10.30am; see Mon 22 Oct for more details.
Poets and performers from the London-based art collective set their imaginations free.
Hear emerging Somali poets and spoken-word artists from the Share Your Talent platform.
Pram Jam: Words and Rhymes
Rise and Rhyme
Friday Tonic: Sxwks – Jolade, Sarah Aluko and Keziah Who
Work together to write an original rap in this fun, inclusive workshop. 11am; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Friday Lunch: London Literature Festival Enjoy a free lunchtime performance.
1pm; Central Bar, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Liz Pichon’s Monster Fun with Tom Gates Have a doodling good time with number one bestselling author Liz Pichon, creator of the beloved Tom Gates series. 2pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £6 (child) £12 (adult)
Beatbox Workshop
Learn the kick drum, hi-hat, snare and more beatboxing techniques in this introductory workshop. 2.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Bedtime Stories 3.45pm; see Mon 22 Oct for more details.
Catch a glimpse of Latin America at a discussion between writers from Argentina, Mexico and Colombia. 12 noon; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; £15
Young Adult Friction
Look for the answers in literature at a talk from three of the young adult fiction world’s most exciting authors. 12 noon; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Included in Pass (£12)
Fierce Fairytales
Imagine a world where princes and princesses can be free at a talk on retelling folk and fairy tales. 1.15pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Included in Pass (£12)
Visions of England: Melissa Harrison and Sam Byers
Tea with a View
Satire in Surreal Times
Join us for a panel discussion on the place and power of satire in troubled times. 3pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15
Philharmonia Orchestra: Sibelius & Tchaikovsky
The charismatic Venezuelan Rafael Payare conducts a pair of Romantic classics. Alexander Gavrylyuk piano Brahms Academic Festival Overture; Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto No.1; Sibelius Symphony No.2 in D 3pm; Royal Festival Hall; £12 – £58
Mohsin Hamid on Migration, Magic and Exit West
This green and pleasant land? Look beneath England’s surface with new novels from two writers.
The Man Booker shortlisted author reflects upon the timeless theme of migration, from ancient times to the present day.
2.30pm; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; £15
7.30pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £18
Under the Skin: Knowing Your Characters
Sue Perkins
Get under the skin of believable and flawed characters and reflect on how far YA fiction can go. 3pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Included in Pass (£12)
No.1 Sunday Times bestselling author Sue Perkins celebrates the publication of her travel memoir. 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; £29.50 (includes book)
Monday 29 Dragon Babies – Gamelan for 3 – 5 year olds 11am, see Mon 1 Oct for more details.
Christian Zacharias and English Chamber Orchestra
The brilliant pianist and conductor shines a light on innovative works from Beethoven and Schoenberg. Beethoven Overture; Poco adagio; Minuetto; Andantino from The Creatures of Prometheus; Schoenberg Verklärte Nacht; Beethoven Piano Concerto No.3 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15 – £45
Sarah Gillespie Quintet Album Launch
Learn why they call it the blues with the singer’s incisive lyrics and jazztinged tunes. Sarah Gillespie guitar, vocals Kit Downes piano James Maddren drums Chris Montague guitar Ruth Goller bass Laura Jurd trumpet 7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15 – £20
Tuesday 30 In the Face of Adversity
Hear one of the most gripping concertos in the repertoire alongside Rachmaninov’s symphonic masterpiece. Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Lionel Bringuier conductor Valeriy Sokolov violin Shostakovich Violin Concerto No.1; Rachmaninov Symphony No.2 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; £10 – £50
Iglooghost
The electronic music producer continues his fantastical narrative with new EPs Steel Mogu and Clear Tamei. 7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £14.50
Wednesday 31 Dave Gorman: With Great PowerPoint Comes Great ResponsibilityPoint
Dave Gorman is back with a new live show. 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; £35
Inon Barnatan: Ravel & Mussorgsky
The New York Times describes Inon Barnatan as ‘one of the most admired pianists of his generation’. Ravel Le tombeau de Couperin; Jeux d’eau; Pavane pour une infante défunte; La valse; Mussorgsky Pictures at an Exhibition 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £10 – £45
Slow Moving Clouds
On their debut album, this atmospheric band combine Irish and Nordic folk influences. 7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15
Throughout the month Space Shifters
View artwork by over 20 international artists on the theme of space disruption. Until 6 Jan 2019; 11am – 7pm (last entry 6pm); Thursday until 9pm (last entry 8pm); closed Tuesday; Hayward Gallery; Hayward Gallery Supporter: £16.50***, Standard: £15.00
DRAG: Self-portraits and Body Politics
Self-portraiture exploring identity, gender and politics, from the 1960s to the present day. Until 14 Oct; 11am – 7pm (last entry 6pm); Thursday until 9pm (last entry 8pm); closed Tuesday; HENI Project Space, Hayward Gallery; Free
Emanuelle Lainé
In a site-specific installation, the artist brings together familiar objects, organic materials and photographic imagery to explore industry, display and the contemporary workplace. From Thu 25 Oct; 10am – 7pm (last entry 6pm); Thursday until 9pm (last entry 8pm); closed Tuesday; HENI Project Space, Hayward Gallery; Free
Lili
Meet a visitor from a future without humans: Lili, an art installation by designer Tim Yip. Part of China Changing Festival. 2 – 13 Oct; 10am – 10pm; Blue Side Foyer, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Cloud Costume Exhibition
Survey fantastical new costumes from designer Tim Yip (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon). Part of China Changing Festival. 2 – 13 Oct; 10am – 10pm; Level 2 Foyers, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Cloud Video Installation
Fifty young Londoners share their visions of the future in this video installation, part of art director Tim Yip’s project Cloud. Part of China Changing Festival. 4 – 13 Oct; 10am – 10pm; Green Side Foyer, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
I’m Still Here
Art by offenders, secure patients and detainees from the 2018 Koestler Awards. Until 4 Nov; daily 10am – 11pm; Exhibition Space, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Gamelan & Poetry Schools Workshops – Lambeth Primary Offer
We invite Lambeth primary schools to free gamelan and poetry workshops. Various dates; 10.30am; Gamelan Room, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; Free; see southbankcentre.co.uk for more details.
Gamelan Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced Courses
Whatever your level, join our Javanese gamelan adult evening classes. Various dates and times; Gamelan Room, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; £100 per term or £270 for three terms in advance. See southbankcentre. co.uk/gamelan for more details.
Gamelan School and Group Workshops – Autumn 2018
Get a group together to have a go at playing the Javanese gamelan. SEND groups welcome. Various dates and times; 10.30am; Gamelan Room, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; £195 for a group. See southbankcentre.co.uk/gamelan for more details.
Constructing Spaces
Make room for creativity at an interactive reconstruction of poet WS Graham’s creative space From 19 Oct; 11am; National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Behind the Scenes Tour
Join us to follow in the footsteps of world-famous orchestras and artists. 6 Oct, 2pm; 13 Oct & 27 Oct, 6pm; Royal Festival Hall; £10
Architecture Tours
Join us on a tour of the newly refurbished Queen Elizabeth Hall and Purcell Room, exploring decades of architectural innovation, and see Southbank Centre from a whole new perspective. For ages 8+ Thursdays and Sundays; see southbankcentre. co.uk for more details; Welcome Hub, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; £12 (£10 each for groups of four or more)
Schools Workshops Autumn 2018
Teachers are invited to bring a primary or secondary school class to take part in term-time workshops designed for schools. Book for Gamelan, Archive, Poetry, or Organ workshops throughout the year. SEND groups welcome. Various dates and times; prices vary. See southbankcentre.co.uk/schools for more details.
‘A child ren’s favouri te’ D A I LY
REVIE
W AUS TR
ALIA
‘A rocking family musical’
U ST R A L I A A R TS R E V I E W A
A W I N D M I LL T H E AT R E C O A N D STAT E T H E AT R E C O M PA N Y S O U T H A U ST R A L I A P R O D U CT I O N
Rumpelstiltskin A new spin on a fantastic family fairy-tale 13 DEC 2018 – 6 JAN 2019 Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H H A LL
Getting here Queen Elizabeth Hall & Purcell Room ter Wa
National Theatre
loo
By tube Waterloo (200 metres) Embankment (600 metres)
d Bri
Royal Festival Hall
ge
ubilee dge
d
Hayward Gallery Be lve de re R
By train The nearest stations are: Waterloo Waterloo East Charing Cross Blackfriars
IMAX
By bus Route RV1 stops on Belvedere Road (less than a minute’s walk away) Routes 1, 4, 26, 59, 68, 139, 168, 171, 172, 176, 188, 243, 521, N1, N68, N171 and N343 stop on Waterloo Bridge (a two-minute walk away) Routes 76, 77, 211, 341, 381, 507, N381, N76 and RV1 stop on York Road (five minutes' walk away)
Yo
Southbank Centre
rk
Rd
London Waterloo East
LondonSouthbank Centre occupies a 17-acre site in the midst of Eye London’s vibrant cultural quarter on the South Bank of the Waterloo
Thames. This includes Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall, Purcell Room, and Hayward Gallery. We also curate the outdoor spaces along the riverfront and around our venues, providing free art for millions of people every year. Waterloo Station We believe art has the power to help create a better world for everyone. That’s why we began in 1951 on the South Bank of the Thames. Dreamed up after World War Two, the Festival of Britain gave the nation hope for a brighter future. Today, millions of people gather at our festivals to enjoy culture from around the world. We put on 5,700 concerts, gigs, exhibitions, shows and debates each year, half of them for free. Our work can be seen on six continents and in 37 towns and cities across the UK. Come and see for yourself.
How to book tickets Online southbankcentre.co.uk* By phone 020 3879 9555* 9am – 8pm daily In person Royal Festival Hall Ticket Office 10am – 8pm daily Queen Elizabeth Hall Ticket Office 10am – 8pm daily
* There are no transaction fees for in-person bookings or Southbank Centre Members and Supporters Circles. For all other bookings transaction fees apply: £3 online; £3.50 over the phone. If you wish to receive tickets in the post, a £1 delivery charge applies.
Access We offer BSL Interpretation, Speech-to-Text Transcription, Audio Description, Captioning, and Autism-Friendly Performances. To join our Access Scheme and book concessionary tickets, email accesslist@southbankcentre.co.uk or call 020 3879 9555. Level access is available to all our venues. For more access information please visit southbankcentre.co.uk/access
Membership Become a Member and be first in line for tickets to over 5,700 events. Join now at southbankcentre.co.uk/membership
Support Join our family of supporters and help us continue to present as many free activities as possible, making art available to all at southbankcentre.co.uk/support
Listings correct at time of going to press. Southbank Centre is a registered charity no. 298909
While you’re here You’ll never be short of eating and drinking options at Southbank Centre – we’ve got everything from cafes and sandwich shops to fine dining and bars. Browse our shops for designer concessions, unusual gifts, jewellery and homeware. Cafes, restaurants and bars You can grab a snack, sit down for a meal, or have a drink at a selection of venues across our site. For more information, see southbankcentre.co.uk/food. Concrete Cafe in Queen Elizabeth Hall is newly opened and offers a new range of food for breakfast and lunch. Hayward Gallery Cafe has recently opened and is the new secret place in London for quiet arty drinks with friends with spectacular views over Waterloo Bridge. Let your tastebuds explore the site this summer with our pop-ups offering delicious BBQ, craft beers, hot dogs, burgers, fresh juices and frozen yogurt. For fine dining, head to Skylon and for drinks and meals with friends head to Côte Brasserie and Honest Burgers. Shops Buy a gift or find something for yourself at our three on-site shops, offering design-led products inspired by our festival programme. Our newly reopened Hayward Gallery shop offers designer collaborations featuring ceramics, tiles, prints, jewellery and art books. Discover inspiring toys and games for children and prints, unique gifts and contemporary lifestyle products at our Mandela Walk and Royal Festival Hall shops. For the latest titles, bestsellers on a wide range of subjects and works linked to our Literature events, visit the Southbank Centre branch of Foyles. Southbank Centre Food Market Discover why our food market is a food lover’s destination, as our traders return with delicious street food for every appetite. Friday, 12 noon – 8pm Saturday, 11am – 8pm Sunday, 12 noon – 6pm Bank Holiday Mondays, 12 noon – 6pm On the cover: Salman Rushdie, Le Figaro, September 16, 2016 © Eric Garault/Figarophoto Highlights page: Andris Nelsons and the Gewandhausorchester Leipzig © Jens Gerber Link Link Circus by Isabella Rossellini © Brigitte Lacombe Salman Rushdie: From Midnight’s Children to Trump’s America © Beowulf Sheehan James Holden & The Animal Spirits © Laura Lewis Richard Wilson, 20:50, 1987 © the artist Installation: Bunny Smash, Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), Tokyo, 2013
To receive publications in alternative formats, and for further information, email accesslist@southbankcentre. co.uk or phone 020 3879 9555