September in London 2012

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Mayor's Thames Festival

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Mayor's Thames Festival
Generations Walk
London Open House Weekend
London Design Festival
Worlds Together
Great Gorilla Run
Great River Race
Mademoiselle Julie
Digital Crystal: Swarovski at the Design Museum
Our Greatest Team Parade
San Francisco Ballet at Sadler's Wells 14th-23rd September
 

 

September plays host to the world famous Last Night of the Proms as well as the Mayor's Thames Festival on the same day so expect big crowds and a euphoric atmosphere in the capital.

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BT London Live

Paralympics on the big screen, live music and have-a-go sports in Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square, Central, Westminster, London, WC2N 5DS

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

 

Dates: 29th August - 09th September 2012

 

BT London Live relocates to Trafalgar Square for the Paralympic Games for 12 days from 29th August until 9th September, with sporting coverage from Channel 4 televised on a 60 metre square screen from 11am to 11.30pm daily. As well as screening all the Paralympic action from the Olympic Park, they will be showcasing live music with a concert planned each evening. Artists include The Beat, Geno Washington and The Ram Jam Band, The Fabulous Lounge Swingers, Space Ships Are Cool, London Calling and Reasons To Be Cheerful. Disabled and non disabled visitors alike can try out a range of Paralympic sports including Sitting Volleyball, Wheelchair Basketball and Wheelchair Tennis on the Have-a-Go Sports Court. Entry for BT London Live Trafalgar Square is available on a walk in, first-come, first-served basis, subject to capacity. There are full details on the official website.

 
 
 

Unlimited

Large scale celebration of disability in the arts at the Southbank Centre

Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, South Bank, London, SE1 8XX

Tube: Waterloo Station , Embankment Underground Station

 

Dates: 05th - 09th September 2018

 

As part of the London 2012 Festival which draws to an end this month, Unlimited is a series of events at the Southbank Centre that celebrate disability, arts, culture and sport. Coinciding with the 2012 Paralympics, Unlimited will see a number of disabled and deaf artists working alongside able bodied artists to push the boundaries and reach previously unattained goals. With 29 impressive and ambitious shows the series will cover dance, live arts, visual arts, music and theatre. Performances include Claire Cunningham's Menage a Trois; The Garden - a gravity-defying piece by Hoxton based theatre company Graeae and Australia's Strange Fruit; and 12 by Candoco Unlimited - a large-scale dance piece in which Candoco Dance Company's international company of 12 disabled and non-disabled dancers are joined by invited guest dancers from Beijing and Rio de Janeiro. Anyone can partake in free workshops given by pioneers in the field like the Candoco Dance Company, and there are further free events including a film screening in the Royal Festival Hall's Clore Ballroom. For the complete programme visit the Southbank Centre's official website.

 
 
 

iTunes Festival

Jack White, Norah Jones, Usher, and (somewhat surprisingly) One Direction

Roundhouse, Chalk Farm Road, London, NW1 8EH

Tube: Chalk Farm Station

 

Dates: 01st - 30th September 2014

 

The iTunes Festival takes over the Roundhouse this September with a free gig every night for the whole month. In the past the Roundhouse stage has been graced by The Rolling Stones, David Bowie and The Clash and the iTunes Festival has some produced some pretty memorable music moments, including performances from epic stadium rockers Coldplay, US rock legends Foo Fighters, British songstress Adele, and a surprise appearance from Amy Winehouse; which in fact turned out to be the last public appearance for the troubled singer/songwriter. This year Jack White, Norah Jones, Usher, and (somewhat surprisingly) One Direction will all be headlining. The iconic Camden venue provides a rare opportunity to see these acts up close and personal for an intimate affair. To get everyone guessing and excitement levels to the maximum, performers are announced gradually nearer to the time of the event. Tickets are free but to apply you must enter a competition by going to the festival's official website. You can apply for as many gigs as you like. But don't fret if you don't manage to win because each performance will be recorded and sold exclusively on iTunes after the event. It's worth keeping tabs on the Roundhouse website because last year's festival included many impromptu splinter events.

 
 
 

1-2-3-4 Shoreditch

Hip music festival in fashionable East London location with excellent after parties

Shoreditch Park, New North Road, Hoxton, London, N1 6TA

Tube: Old Street Station

 

Dates: 01st September 2012

 

The 1-2-3-4 Shoreditch music festival in Shoreditch Park returns for a fifth outing and this year it has come over all autumnal, bringing you the best new underground music alongside inspirational international acts. Given the fashionable East London location, it's no surprise that this whippersnapper of a festival is branded as one for 'stylish bands, stylish fans and stylish sounds'. Perhaps the least corporate music festival you'll get all summer, the 1-2-3-4 will no doubt throw up a bevy of 'heard-them-here-first' bands alongside (in equal measure) many 'will-never-hear-of-again' offerings. After the live music comes to an ever so cool close in the park the fun moves on to some of nearby venues, usually including Hoxton Square Bar & Kitchen, Electricity Showrooms, Bar Music Hall, Queen Of Hoxton, Old Blue Last, the Joiners Arms and Mother. Last year tickets cost a mere £22.50 and your festival wristband got you into all the after parties for free, working out as a damn good deal. We're looking forward to another a night of summer mayhem.

 
 
 

Portobello Film Festival

Film festival which prides itself on showing tomorrow's films today

Portobello Road, Portobello Road, Notting Hill, London, W11 1LJ

Tube: Ladbroke Grove Station

 

Dates: 29th August - 15th September 2019

 

Created in 1996 as a reaction to the state of the British Film industry the Portobello Film Festival aims to provide a platform for new exciting film-makers and to give daring and ground-breaking directors a chance to get their films seen. The festival hasn't had an easy ride and has even found itself without a cinema screen at times, screenings in parks, theatres, clubs and bars have all added to the diverse nature of this festival. This year the festival will be held at a number of locations including Westbourne Studios and a pop-up cinema on Acklam Road; check out the website for the full programme. With annual premiers of shorts, documentaries and animations and lots of talks and workshops with top film directors the Portobello Film Festival is an exciting event in any film fanatics diary.

 
 
 
 

Digital Crystal: Swarovski at the Design Museum

Works by 15 leading designers commissioned by Swarovski in the past decade

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

Tube: High Street Kensington Station

 

Dates: 05th September - 13th January 2013

 

The meaning of memory in the digital age is explored through the Design Museum's Digital Crystal exhibition, a display which includes the works for 15 leading figures in design who have been commissioned by Swarovski crystal in the past decade. Internationally renowned artist, architect and designer Ron Arad is just one of the designers taking part. Through Ron Arad's Lolita chandelier anyone anywhere in the world can take part in the exhibition using Twitter (hashtag #digitalcrystal) or texting +44 (0)7860 021492. Their message will appear in the 1000 LEDs hidden in the crystals of Arad's Lolita, created for Swarovski Crystal Palace in 2004 and completely redesigned for this exhibition. Philippe Malouin's Blur, influenced by the CERN Hadron Collider, spins a Swarovski crystal at speed creating a colourful spectrum of light while design duo Fredrikson Stallard revisit their seminal 2007 Pandora chandelier. Alongside the contemporary works - Maarten Baas, rAndom International, Yves Behar, Troika and Fredrikson Stallard are just some of the 15 designers who have produced new or updated installations for the exhibition - are a selection of pieces from the Swarovski archives, juxtaposing old and new and so highlighting the changes in the digital age.

 
 
 

Hedda Gabler

Sheridan Smith stars in Brian Friel's adaptation at the Old Vic

Old Vic Theatre, 103 The Cut, South Bank, London, SE1 8NB

Tube: Waterloo Station , Southwark Station, Lambeth North Station

 

Dates: 05th September - 10th November 2012

 

Star of stage and screen, Sheridan Smith, makes another bold move with her new role at the Old Vic. Sheridan is possibly best known for her memorable comedic roles in a number of hits including the West End adaptation of Legally Blonde and her hilarious part as James Corden's boisterous sister in BBC series Gavin and Stacey. But now she turns her hand to drama in the title role of Brian Friel's adaptation of Hedda Gabler. Friel had previous success with adaptations of Chekhov's Uncle Vanya and Three Sisters, and he will work on this project with esteemed director Anna Mackmin, who returns to the Old Vic after successful runs at Hampstead Theatre and the National Theatre. Sheridan - who was recently given both the Olivier and the Evening Standard Best Actress award - will surely be hoping for similar notoriety in this classic Ibsen play, which follows free-spirited young lady, Hedda Gabler, as she rejects convention and challenges social norms over the course of a fast and thrilling 24 hour period.

 
 
 

Vogue: Fashion's Night Out

Over 200 retailers take part offering discounts, manicures and makeovers

Regent Street, Regent Street, Soho, London, W1B 5SJ

Tube: Oxford Circus Station

 

Dates: 06th September 2012

 

Top fashion outlets in central London will come alive for one night, on Thursday 6th September, as part of a global initiative carried out by the magazine Vogue. The Fashion's Night Out evening extravaganza - held in 13 countries over the world - aims to lift shopping spirits and emphasise the joy of fashion. Over 200 retailers have signed up for the initiative, which will see stores and designers undertaking special one-off events including late opening hours, styling tips given by celebrities and Vogue editors, makeovers and manicures, and appearances from top fashion personalities. In London, the programme is measuring up to be a veritable festival of fashion - think clothing's answer to the Camden Crawl, but in the West End - and Westfield. Many of Regent Street's stores are taking part including Jaeger both designer brands which are taking part in London Fashion Week this month. Jonathan Saunders will be running a live photobooth on the 2nd floor of Liberty where Roksanda Ilincic will be signing sketches of her AW collection for customers on the night and model Jade Parfitt will be modelling Roksanda's designs. For more information go to the Vogue website and follow all the action on Twitter with @BritishVogue.

 
 
 

Worlds Together

The three-day event provides a platform for teachers, artists and professionals

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

Tube: Blackfriars Underground Station

 

Dates: 06th - 08th September 2012

 

Worlds Together is an ambitious project aimed at exploring the importance of arts in young people's lives. The London based conference will combine the efforts and resources of the Tate Modern, the British Museum, the National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company. This mass collaboration draws on every medium of art, from digital technologies to Shakespeare and takes a particular interest in new emerging art forms and practices. The three-day event will provide a platform for teachers, artists and professionals to come together to discuss the way different artistic disciplines effect young people's cultural experience. Visit the website to book your ticket, spaces are limited. The forum will be held in the Tate's brand new Oil Tanks, where filmmaker Jeff Keen and choreographer and dancer Boris Charmatz are part of the ongoing fifteen-week festival which runs from 18th July until 28th October 2012.

 
 
 

London 2012 Paralympic Closing Ceremony

Coldplay and Rhianna star in the final act of the 30th Olympiad

Olympic Stadium, Olympic Park, Stratford, London, E20 2ST

Tube: Hackney Wick Overground Station

 

Dates: 09th September 2012

 

One of Great Britain's most popular bands, Coldplay, will be the star act of the Paralympic Closing Ceremony on Sunday 9th September 2012, which will signal the conclusion of the London 2012 Games and the 30th Olympiad. Kim Gavin, the creative director behind the glorious Olympic Closing Ceremony, is once again in charge of proceedings as London's wonderful summer of sport comes to a rousing conclusion with a music-heavy programme. Entitled 'Festival of Flame', the Paralympic Closing Ceremony will see Chris Martin's Coldplay take to the stage and perform a live and one-off concert in the Olympic Stadium, broadcast to an estimated worldwide audience of 750 million. The multi award-winning band have been working with Gavin and designer Misty Buckley to play a set of their most iconic songs alongside a cast of almost 2,000 volunteers and professional performers. It promises to be a flamboyant stage show celebrating not only the host city and nation, but also the ideals of the Paralympics. The ceremony will start with the arrival of flag-bearers from each participating country followed by athletes en masse, arriving into the stadium without any national distinction. Once the Paralympic Flag is taken down, the national flag of the next host nation, Brazil, will be symbolically raised before the extinguishing of the Paralympic Flame marks the end of not only the Paralympics but also London 2012 as a whole.

 
 
 
 

Last Night of the Proms 2012

A rousing finale to the summer season of The Proms

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

Tube: South Kensington Station

 

Dates: 07th September 2013

 

The world famous Last Night of the Proms at the Royal Albert Hall brings the terrific summer season of The Proms to a fitting finale. Described by conductor Jiri Belohlavek as "the world's largest and most democratic musical festival", the much-loved classical celebration now encompasses more than 100 concerts each year. The Last Night is traditionally very different from the eight weeks that precede it, following a lighter, 'winding-down' vein and often pandering to popular classics and Patriotic Anthems (Rule, Britannia!, anyone?). Tickets are almost as hard to come by as Centre Court passes for the Wimbledon finals, but like the tennis, the whole thing is broadcast live on the BBC - and all round the world. Plus there's the popular Proms in the Park party, hosted by Terry Wogan. Check the Royal Albert Hall website for full details of the 2012 Proms programme.

 
 
 

BBC Proms in the Park

Kylie Minogue, Alfie Boe and Il Divo join Sir Terry Wogan in Hyde Park

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

Tube: Knightsbridge Station

 

Dates: 14th September 2019

 

The world famous Last Night of the Proms at the Royal Albert Hall is one of the most sought after events in the musical calendar. Tickets are almost as hard to come by as Centre Court passes for the Wimbledon finals. Like the tennis, the whole thing is broadcasted live on the BBC, but not without losing some of its charm and vigour. For the Henman Hill/Murray Mount of The Proms experience, nothing quite beats going to its sister event in Hyde Park with hundreds of other classical revellers. So, if you can't get tickets for the main event, then head to the park with food, family and friends, where for £35 you'll get five hours of music and entertainment hosted by Sir Terry Wogan and featuring pop star Kylie Minogue, tenor Alfie Boe, and pop/opera quartet Il Divo. With a sensational firework finale above the stage to cap things off, the only thing you'll have to worry about is the weather. Unlike Wimbledon, Hyde Park doesn't have a retractable roof just yet.

 
 
 

Mayor's Thames Festival

Two day festival with street entertainment, art installations, music and dancing

 

The Mayor's Thames Festival takes place in September each year celebrating the main waterway which winds its way through the heart of the city. This year the festival is taking place on the closing weekend of the Paralympics and the London 2012 Games; so expect big crowds and a euphoric atmosphere. Highlights include a choral performance on HMS Belfast, an awe-inspiring acrobatic display by Circolombia set against the backdrop of Tower Bridge, and the UK's largest ever Rio-Style carnival float - a nod to the Olympics Games passing from London to Rio. Arcadia's Lords of Lightning will harness four million volts of raw electricity into a mystical flow of oscillating chaos. And One Thousand Pans brings steel pan groups from across the country to Jubilee Gardens in front of the London Eye in an attempt to break the world record for the largest number of steel pans played at one time. There's a carnival ambience to the two-day festival with street entertainment, art installations, music and dancing all performed at various riverside locations between Westminster Bridge, Tower Bridge and beyond. All this fun entertainment is free and, for the grand finale, there's a colourful night procession featuring costumed performers with tambourines and whistles travelling along Victoria Embankment and via Blackfriars Bridge, culminating in a massive free fireworks display. The festival ends with a spectacular bang as more than a ton of pyrotechnics explode over the River Thames in just ten minutes. Large crowds line up along the river for the fireworks display but with the stretch from the two barges between Blackfriars and Waterloo Bridge spanning almost half a kilometre, there's plenty of opportunity to find a space.

 
 
 

Leonard Cohen

A last minute venue change brings Cohen to Wembley Arena

SSE Arena, Wembley, Arena Square, Engineers Way, London, HA9 0DH

Tube: Wembley Park Station

 

Dates: 08th - 09th September 2012

 

The veteran Canadian soft rock and folk-rock singer-songwriter and his backing band performs songs from his album Old Ideas alongside his hits including Hallelujah, Suzanne and So Long, Marianne. Described as an "underrated legend" by The Guardian, Leonard Cohen is considered more of a poet than a singer by his loyal fans. Recently he has reached a new audience through his song Hallelujah which has found fame through The X Factor when the track was sung by winner Alexandra Burke and recorded by a subsequent series victor Diana Vickers.

 
 
 

Radio 2 Live In Hyde Park

Tom Jones, Status Quo, Mick Hucknall and Jessie J are among the line up

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

Tube: Knightsbridge Station

 

Dates: 11th September 2016

 

Radio 2 broadcasts from Hyde Park for the BBC Radio 2 Live in Hyde Park concert on Sunday 9 September 2012 when a selection of the radio station's regular presenters are joined by bands and singers that the broadcaster is associated with. Artists confirmed so far are Tom Jones, The Voice UK's judge Jessie J, British rockers Status Quo, Simply Red's Mick Hucknall, London songstress Paloma Faith, Scottish funksters Average White Band and hot new talent Emeli Sandé. Also confirmed to perform are Norwegian band Katzenjammer. Further acts will be announced, check the official website for details.

 
 
 
 

The Bandstand Marathon

The nationwide one-day music marathon is playing at 18 bandstands across the capital

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

Tube: Sloane Square Station

 

Dates: 09th September 2012

 

Coming to a bandstand near you, this unique one day music marathon on Sunday 9th September aims to bring live music and performance to parks across the UK, with a target of 500 events nationwide. In London there are at least 18 venues signed up, including Regents Park - where Klezmer in the Park takes place from 1pm to 6pm - Barking Park, Battersea Park, Clapham Common, Victoria Park, Springfield Park, Paddington Recreation Ground, Gladstone Park and Twickenham's Diamond Jubilee Gardens. Taking place at various locations throughout the UK from 1pm to 5pm, at 2pm musicians across the country will perform their versions of Coldplay's Viva La Vida simultaneously. The Bandstand Marathon is now in its fifth year and celebrates local music talent and united communities, it has been chosen as one of the closing events of the London 2012 Festival.

 
 
 

Generations Walk

Hampstead Heath, Highgate Road, London, NW3 7JR

Tube: Hampstead Station

 

Dates: 09th September 2012

 

Raising both money and awareness for Breast Cancer, the Generations Walk returns in 2012, having raised £35,000 last year. The grand total raised from the annual charity walk has now reached over £300,000 and this year the event will be supporting a new project, one which aims to develop new drugs to overcome resistance to chemotherapy. Chemotherapy allows 60% of patients to return to work and is a challenging but vital treatment for many breast cancer patients - the money raised by walkers will be put towards the research for this project. The walk will be 5 kilometres across Hampstead Heath and will finish with a picnic lunch for all participants.

 
 
 

Hampstead & Highgate Literary Festival

The north London festival has become a much loved event in London's literary calendar

JW3, Finchley Road, London, NW3 6ET

Tube: Finchley Road Station

 

Dates: 22nd - 26th September 2016

 

Organised and hosted by the London Jewish Cultural Centre, the Hampstead and Highgate Literary Festival has quickly become a much loved event in London's literary calendar. This will be the fourth year of events and the festival seems to be growing with momentum since launching back in 2009. Book lovers arrived in their thousands last year to join in with creative workshops and to hear from some of the literary world's leading figures. Michael Palin, Kathy Lette, Peter Hain MP, and Rachel Joyce - who is on the long list for the Man Booker Prize this year - are among the names set to make an appearance in 2012. There are nearly 60 events to choose from including talks by Howard Jacobson, Rose Tremain, Tom Holland, Alison Weir, David Lammy MP, Pam Ayres, Robert Goddard, Gillian Slovo, John O Farrell, and Lisa Jewell. Hosted in the former home of prima ballerina Anna Pavlova in a picturesque part of north London, and assisted by GRANTA and Daunt Books the three day book festival is certain to get those creative juices flowing.

 
 
 

Tour of Britain

Nine days of two wheeled action by Olympic medallists fresh from the Games

Priory Park Reigate, Bell Street, Reigate, Westminster, London, RH2 7RL

Tube: Morden Station

 

Dates: 09th - 16th September 2012

 

The UK's biggest professional cycling race, The Tour hits the streets of Britain for nine days of two-wheeled action offering spectators a chance to see first hand the pedal power of Olympic medallists fresh from the games. The 2012 race will be the ninth edition and runs throughout England, Scotland and Wales over the eight days. Now an established highlight of the British sporting year, the race is Britain's largest free-to-watch live sporting event. You can expect to see plenty of top cycling names take to the road with home favourites like Tour de France winner Bradley Wiggins and world road race champion Mark Cavendish who will spearhead Team Sky's line-up. Ben Swift, Edvald Boasson Hagen and Andy Schleck have all had successful rides in recent years and this year should provide a chance to catch fleeting glimpses of some talented newcomers. The closest The Tour comes to London is on the final day, Day 8, on Sunday 16th September, which begins in Reigate and ends in Guildford - both easily accessible from London by car or train.

 
 
 

London Duathlon 2012

The world's biggest duathlon returns to Richmond Park this September

Richmond Park, Park Office, Holly Lodge, London, TW10 5HS

Tube: Richmond Station

 

Dates: 20th September 2015

 

The world's biggest duathlon returns to Richmond Park this September as athletes prime themselves to run, bike and run a little bit more on closed roads in south west London's area of outstanding natural beauty. This double-discipline endurance test is ideal for sporty types (17 years or above) who fancy doing a triathlon but are put off by the cold water of the Thames! There are three main categories: fun (5km run/10km ride/5km run), challenge (10km run/20km ride/5km run) or challenge team relay (10km run/20km ride/5km run). While 50% of the 3,500 entrants are competing for the very first time, top athletes will also be able to take part in separate elite and junior elite sprint races. The London Duathlon is sponsored by Chelsea and Westminster Health Charity and encourages participants to raise money for charity. Those wishing to race must apply by late August and pay an entrance fee. For more information and an entry pack go to the official website.

 
 
 
 

Our Greatest Team Parade

A final chance to cheer the participants of the recent Olympics and Paralympics

Mansion House, City of, City, London, EC4N 8BH

Tube: Bank Station , Cannon Street Station, Mansion House Station, Monument Station

 

Dates: 10th September 2012

 

The sporting heroes and medal winners of the recent London Olympics and Paralympics will parade through the streets of London in Our Greatest Team Parade in which athletes travel on floats from Mansion House to Trafalgar Square. The parade, which is expected to take up to 13 minutes to pass any given point, will be a chance to honour the athletes in recognition of their sporting success with around 800 competitors travelling on 21 floats, organised by sport. Setting out from Mansion House in the City at 1.30pm, they will travel along Queen Victoria Street and Cannon Street, passing by St Paul's Cathedral, continuing along Fleet Street, past Aldwych and into The Strand, before reaching Trafalgar Square where a big screen will show the parade. A parade route map is available on the Mayor of London Presents website. Taking the Admiralty Arch exit from Trafalgar Square, this area, along The Mall to the Queen Victoria Memorial in front of Buckingham Palace, will be ticketed, reserved for 14,000 volunteers and people who have made an invaluable contribution to the Games. There will be road closures around the route which is expected to be very busy.

 
 
 

Pre-Raphaelites: Victorian Avant-Garde

A unique chance to view work from Britain's original modern art movement

Tate Britain, Millbank, Westminster, London, SW1P 4RG

Tube: Pimlico Station

 

Dates: 12th September - 13th January 2013

 

The Pre-Raphaelites were the rebels of the mid-nineteenth century, a collection of avant-garde artists who overturned orthodoxy and set the tone for modern art. The secret society was founded in 1848 and was largely led by Dante Gabriel Rossetti, William Holman Hunt and John Everett Millais. Opposed to the triviality represented by the Royal Academy's tastes, they were inspired predominantly by John Ruskin's theories of nature, realism and religion, love and death. The Tate has now brought together a collection of over 150 pieces of art showcasing the very best of the movement. Paintings, sculpture, photography and applied arts will sit alongside rare masterpieces including Ford Madox Brown's controversial Work 1852-1865. Also Philip Webb and Burne-Jones's The Prioress's Tale wardrobe of 1858. Don't miss this unique chance to view work from Britain's original modern art movement.

 
 
 

San Francisco Ballet: Three Mixed Bills

The oldest ballet company in America returns to London for first time in eight years

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

Tube: Angel Station

 

Dates: 14th - 23rd September 2012

 

The San Francisco Ballet, the oldest major ballet company in America, returns to London for the first time in eight years to present Three Mixed Bills over two weeks at Sadler's Wells, performing some of its most popular works of recent years. Three different programmes - A, B and C - offer a huge range of dances from George Balanchine's large-scale ballet, Divertimento No. 15, performed along with the abstract work by Edwaard Liang, to Ashley Page's highly physical Guide to Strange Places set to music by John Adams. Notable new works by internationally acclaimed choreographers Mark Morris and Christopher Wheeldon will also be performed. Under the current direction of Helgi Tomasson, the San Francisco Ballet has "earned a world-beating reputation as a talent-spotter of original work," (The Guardian), and these performances offer a rare chance to see "dancers of exceptional elegance and intelligence" in the UK.

 
 
 

Bompas & Parr Mercedes Drive-Thru

The most fun and fashionable drive-thru you're ever likely to experience

Selfridges, 400 Oxford Street, Marylebone, London, W1U 1AB

Tube: Bond Street Station , Marble Arch Station

 

Dates: 14th - 16th September 2012

 

For London Fashion Week food sculptors Bompas & Parr (the duo behind this summer's Crazy Golf course on the roof of Selfridges) and The Avant/Garde Diaries have created the Mercedes Drive Thru serving fast food via a drive-thru underneath Selfridges. Unlike the golden arches - or any other eaterie you can drive through - this is a fashionable affair which turns the act of picking up lunch into an exciting sensory experience. Describing it as "our most ambitious project to date," Sam Bompas and Harry Parr are aiming to, "effectively melt people's brains them hit them like a hammer on the tongue with feral foods." What fun! A spectacular light show, created with the help of the multidisciplinary collective Jason Bruges Studio, gives diners the feeling of going through hyper-space, with a pulsating light installation illuminating the cars as they drive through. Turn your steering wheel through the Orchard Street entrance for the most original drive-thru you're ever likely to experience. See The Avant/Garde Diaries website for more details.

 
 
 

London Fashion Week

Fashion industry comes to Somerset House for catwalk shows, exhibitions and awards

The Brewer Street Car Park, 2 Lexington Street, Covent Garden, London, W1F 0LA

Tube: Piccadilly Circus Station , Leicester Square Station

 

Dates: 18th - 22nd September 2015

 

This September London Fashion Week will once again inject a burst of style into Somerset House; the iconic building with its famous courtyard is a magical setting for this high profile fashion industry event. The week features 200 of the industry's most creative designers and businesses, in the UK and internationally, with catwalk shows, exhibitions and award ceremonies. It's all wildly exclusive, of course, and if you don't have any connections with the fashion industry there's no chance of acquiring tickets to the main event, however the whole capital will no doubt be bustling with fashion fever and the streets could become your very own catwalk.

 
 
 
 

The London Design Festival

Nine days of design led talks, exhibitions, competitions and activities

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

Tube: South Kensington Station

 

Dates: 15th - 23rd September 2012

 

The London Design Festival is an ambitious project. Hundreds of events, locations, shops, universities and design agencies are involved in the nine days of talks, exhibitions, competitions and activities. It's a true celebration of the capital's all-encompassing design industry, taking in sectors as diverse as fashion, architecture, retail, typography, photography, textiles, interior decoration and manufacturing. There's a huge amount to see but don't be put off by the volume: inclusion here is based on the quality of the design. Events come in all shapes and sizes from product launches in tiny boutiques to massive trade shows. Details are released in March but, judging by what we've seen in years gone by, the programme is likely to centre on hubs at the Southbank Centre, the V & A and St Paul's Cathedral. The scope is far-reaching and you'll be hard pressed to cover all of it but it's fun trying. Check the website for full details.

 
 
 

The Great River Race

The 21-mile race is considered the rowing equivalent of the London Marathon

River Thames, , London, SE1 2JX

Tube: London Bridge Station

 

Dates: 14th September 2019

 

Regarded as the rowing equivalent of the London Marathon, The Great River Race is bursting with colour, spectacle, intense competition and casual fun. Due to tides, the 2012 race will be run upstream for the fifth successive year, starting at Millwall Slipway in London's Docklands at 10.30am and finishing with a spectacular riverside party at Ham. The extensive 21-mile course takes crews from the industrial cityscape of Docklands all the way along the Thames to the idyllic semi-rural Richmond shores. The idea for this Herculean test of strength and endurance was inspired by a 1987 charity event in which a passenger barge rowed from Hampton Court Palace to the Tower Of London. Entries have snowballed from a mere 72 entrants to a massive 300 boats carrying over 2,000 competitors, racing for 35 trophies. This prestigious event is a fun day out for all the family. Those not competing can take a picnic and settle down to watch the action or follow the winding course right to the heart of the city. Festivities along the river at Richmond will begin at noon with live music, a children's beach, donkey rides and food and drink stalls. For more information and details just search Great River Race on LondonTown.com.

 
 
 

Lambeth Country Show

City kids get to soak up a taste of rural England in Brockwell Park

 

The countryside comes to South London for a weekend, cows and all, as the leafy expanse of Brockwell Park welcomes herds of hairy visitors, accompanied by brilliant live music. The annual Lambeth Country Show, moved from its regular July weekend to 15th and 16th September in 2012 due to the summer Olympics, is a weird and very entertaining mixture: city kids get to soak up a taste of rural England - falconry shows, jousting, sheep dog displays, a fruit and veg competition, steam engines and the like - then restore their urban cool with two days of top ska, soul and reggae with music from some of Brixton's finest soundsystems. Local acts feature on the main stage while over on the Village Green stage you'll find acoustic and folk music followed by some jazz and classical groups. A fantastic free family festival and a tribute to the enduring spirit of London's liveliest borough.

 
 
 

Kings Place Festival

100 performances are squeezed into a jam-packed schedule between 15th and 17th September

Kings Place, 90 York Way, King's Cross, London, N1 9AG

Tube: King's Cross Station

 

Dates: 09th - 11th September 2016

 

The fifth Kings Place Festival takes place in mid September with a unique formula of 100 concerts squeezed into just three days. Audience numbers have risen higher with every year and are expected to be at an all time high this year. Taking place over three days and featuring many free events, the Kings Place Festival somehow manages to shoehorn 100 performances into a jam-packed schedule, giving visitors the opportunity to pick and choose what they want to see from a huge variety of acts. What's more, if you book more than three events, you can benefit from the 'click'n'mix' discount offers. From spoken word to comedy and classical music to dance, there's plenty of different performances going on giving you plenty to choose from. For a full list of performances including times and prices, visit www.kingsplace.co.uk/festival.

 
 
 

Bronze

More than just the metal for third place

Royal Academy of Arts, Burlington House, Mayfair, London, W1J 0BD

Tube: Green Park Station , Piccadilly Circus Station

 

Dates: 15th September - 09th December 2012

 

For most of us, after the glorious summer of London 2012, bronze evokes images of third place on the podium. But Bronze is also the subject of a new, unprecedented exhibition at the Royal Academy, bringing together outstanding works of bronze from the earliest times to the present in a thematic arrangement that is both fresh and unique. Bronze covers 5,000 years of artwork made from the metal, with pieces by Donatello, Bernini and Rodin. No such cross-cultural exhibition on this scale has ever been attempted, with 150 of the finest bronzes from Asia, Africa and Europe - including important discoveries and archeological excavations - all under one roof, some of them seen in the UK for the very first time. Give Bronze a gold medal.

 
 
 
 

Sandi Toksvig Live: My Valentine

The Radio 4 regular does one night of stand-up, anecdotes and trivia

Richmond Theatre, The Green, Surrey, London, TW9 1QJ

Tube: Richmond Station

 

Dates: 16th September 2012

 

The exuberant host of BBC Radio Four's News Quiz and Excess Baggage celebrates the publication of her new novel Valentine Grey - "a rip-roaring story of gender, liberty, empire and injustice, set against the vibrant backdrop of Victorian London and the Boer War", according to the book's blurb - with an evening of stand-up, anecdotes and trivia at Richmond Theatre. Fans of Sandi Toksvig can also book in to see her play Bully Boy, which will be the first production to be staged at the brand new St James Theatre when it opens on 18th September 2012.

 
 
 

A Chorus of Disapproval

Rob Brydon and Ashley Jensen star in Alan Ayckbourn's comedy

Harold Pinter Theatre, 6 Panton Street, Soho, London, SW1Y 4DN

Tube: Piccadilly Circus Station , Leicester Square Station

 

Dates: 17th September - 05th January 2013

 

Trevor Nunn directs a star-studded cast including West End debutant Rob Brydon (Gavin and Stacey, The Rob Brydon Show), Nigel Harman (EastEnders, Shrek The Musical) and Ashley Jensen (Extras, Ugly Betty) in Alan Ayckbourn's A Chorus of Disapproval at the Harold Pinter Theatre. The Pendon Amateur Light Operatic Society's production of The Beggars Opera is out of control but when young widower Guy (Harman) joins the group, he makes an instant hit with director Dafydd (Brydon) and his wife Hannah (Jensen). The shy wannabe actor soon gets more than he bargained for as romantic rivalry takes centre stage. The show returns to London for the first time since it ran at the National Theatre 25 years ago and is a continuation of Ayckbourn's collaboration with Sonia Friedman productions.

 
 
 

Bully Boy

Sandi Toksvig's play opens the brand new St James Theatre on 18th September

The Other Palace Theatre, 12 Palace Street, Westminster, London, SW1E 5JA

Tube: Victoria Station

 

Dates: 18th September - 27th October 2012

 

Sandi Toksvig's Bully Boy is to be the first production to be staged at the brand new St James Theatre when it opens on 18th September 2012. Anthony Andrews (best known for his BAFTA award winning performance in Brideshead Revisited) plays Major Oscar Hadley who is tasked with investigating gross misconduct within a unit of the Army. An interview with the young Private Eddie Clark, played by Joshua Miles, reveals that 'truth' depends on your point of view in this tale of modern day military life which highlights the lack of mental health care for returning soldiers. Sandi Toksvig, the Danish born British braodcaster, author, comedian, and long-standing host of BBC Radio 4's News Quiz and Excess Baggage, can also be seen performing at the Richmond Theatre this month when her one-woman show based on her new novel Valentine Grey, comes to town on Sunday 16th September.

 
 
 

Chelsea Antiques Fair

A popular annual antiques fair on the Kings Road since 1950

Chelsea Old Town Hall, Kings Road, Chelsea, London, SW3 5EE

Tube: South Kensington Station

 

Dates: 19th - 23rd September 2012

 

The Chelsea Antiques Fair has been a popular annual fixture on the Kings Road since 1950. The antiques are presented against the gilded opulence of Chelsea Town Hall, with its marble columns, chandeliers and original oil paintings; a fitting backdrop for such a wealth of prized items. The fair has 36 specialist dealers this year, and a quick browse will reveal 19th and early 20th century porcelain and pottery, fine gem set jewellery, oak furniture, silverware, Chinese antiquities, Art Deco furniture, fine maps and prints, Persian carpets and rare glassware and much, much more. Prices range from £20 to the tens of thousands, so there is something to suit all budgets.

 
 
 

Mademoiselle Julie

Juliette Binoche stars in the naturalistic play by Swedish playwright August Strindberg

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

Tube: Barbican Station , Moorgate Station

 

Dates: 20th - 29th September 2012

 

The naturalistic play Mademoiselle Julie is one of Swedish playwright August Strindberg's most famous; this spring, the Barbican is presenting a modern version of the 1888 play. Starring Juliette Binoche and based on a battle between the sexes as a young woman encounters her father's footman and has an agonising evening consisting of lust, sex, and lies; the performance aims to be intimate, emotional and engaging. The play will be performed in French with English surtitles, and will be predominantly based on a fight for power between the lead male and female who differentiate in class, sex and values.

 
 
 
 

Peace One Day Concert

Elton John headlines the peace promoting concert on 21st September

SSE Arena, Wembley, Arena Square, Engineers Way, London, HA9 0DH

Tube: Wembley Park Station

 

Dates: 21st September 2012

 

Elton John and his band play at the 2012 Peace One Day concert at Wembley Arena, an annual showcase promoting global truce and non-violence. Every year since 2001, 21st September has been the day dedicated to 'Peace One Day', a day of non-violence, global ceasefire and peace. The special concert features a host of performances from the likes of James Morrison, 2Cellos and others, as well as contributions from Peace One Day's founder Jeremy Gilley and its ambassador actor Jude Law. The Peace One Day concert marks the last major event of the London 2012 Festival as well as Elton John's only gig in the capital this year.

 
 
 

Nada: Music of the Divine

South-Asian musical commemorating 25 years of the music of the divine

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

Tube: South Kensington Station

 

Dates: 22nd September 2012

 

Five of India's most celebrated musicians come together at the Royal Albert Hall for a wonderful night of Music, Meditation and Healing. Nada is a South-Asian musical commemorating 25 years of the music of the divine. The famous five on the bill are Guinness World Record holder, Dr Yella Venkateswara Rao on the Mridangam, 'Pele of Percussion', Vaidyanathan Suresh on the Ghatam, respected composer, Jaitra Varanasi on the violin, Sri Ganapathy Sachidananda Swamiji on the synthesiser and Dr Natesa Ramani on the flute. Whether you're interested in spiritual well being or you just enjoy Asian music then this could be just the night for you.

 
 
 

The Cake and Bake Show

The first live event dedicated to the world of cakes, breads and the art of baking

ExCeL London, One Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock, Earls Court, London, E16 1XL

Tube: Canning Town Station

 

Dates: 04th - 06th October 2019

 

The Cake and Bake Show has all the ingredients needed for a delicious day out. With new celebrity chefs and baking shows constantly bursting onto the scene, baking has become more popular than ever. Embracing the rise in popularity, Earls Court will be hosting the first live event dedicated to the world of cakes, breads and the art of baking. The day will offer an array of tempting and tasty features including: Sugarcraft Showcase, icing demonstrations and classes from the country's top cake artists; Chocolate Unwrapped, a sweet tooth's heaven with chocolate tastings and demos; and The Science Lab, expert advice that looks at the techniques of many cake conundrums. There will also be an English Tea Room offering tea and cakes to support the Macmillan Cancer Support team.

 
 
 

Great Gorilla Run

There's some serious monkey business when gorillas run riot around the city

Tower Bridge, Tower Bridge Road, Bankside, London, SE1 2UP

Tube: London Bridge Station

 

Dates: 17th September 2016

 

There's some serious monkey business going on in London this September; back for its 10th year the Great Gorilla Run will be bounding through the streets of the capital. Aiming to raise money to save the world's remaining gorillas, hundreds of people will be pulling on their gorilla costumes and running, jogging or walking the 7km City and Bankside route. Expect to see many humorously adapted costumes; including cheerleading gorillas prancing across Tower Bridge and ballerina gorillas perfecting their poise by the Tate Modern. The Gorilla Organisation works on raising money to help local communities in Africa work harmoniously alongside the rainforest rather than against it; and as a result enabling the Gorillas home to remain safe and kept as it should be. Runners hoping to participate need to pay a registration fee of £80 which can be done through the website; gorilla costume is included!

 
 
 

Twelfth Night

Mark Rylance reprises his role as Olivia in the all-male production at The Globe

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

Tube: Mansion House Station

 

Dates: 22nd September - 14th October 2012

 

The Globe welcomes back its first artistic director, Mark Rylance, whose stunning performance in Jerusalem has been bowling over audiences in London and New York. The actor returns to the Southwark theatre for the first time since he left in 2005, starring in an all-male award-winning production of Twelfth Night by Original Practices. Rylance plays Olivia in the production, reviving a role he took on ten years ago when the show premiered in 2002. With a celebrated cast in some of Shakespeare's most loved roles you can expect comedy, cruelty and plenty of cross-dressing in this bittersweet production about two teams battling within the house of Olivia. On one hand, the lovesick lord Orsino plots against the heart of indifferent Olivia. On the other hand, a vexed alliance of servants scheme against her steward Malvolio. With traditional Shakespearian costume, music and dance this production at the Globe promises to transport you right back to 1601.

 
 
 
 

London Open House Weekend

Around 700 of the city's buildings open their doors for this fantastic, free annual event

Bank of England Museum, Bartholomew Lane, City, London, EC2R 8AH

Tube: Bank Station , Cannon Street Station, Mansion House Station, Moorgate Station, Monument Station

 

Dates: 22nd - 23rd September 2012

 

So many of London's architectural landmarks are closely guarded secrets, off-limits to Joe Public. It's tantalising to imagine what goes on behind those closed doors. Well, thanks to the hugely popular London Open House Weekend, we need wonder no more. Almost 700 of the city's buildings - including the Bank of England - take part in this fantastic, free yearly event, now in its 19th year, by opening their doors to everyone. London Open House Weekend offers a wealth of historical landmarks to choose from including some of the most beautiful architectural achievements in the city. You can also get inside some of the grandest private homes in your own neighbourhood - it's a voyeur's dream come true. For the more serious students of contemporary design, this is a chance to visit spaces by famous modern architects. An inspired idea and a real treat whether you're a lover of architecture or just plain nosy. Entry to some of the houses is only permitted via pre-booked tickets acquired through the website www.londonopenhouse.org. You're advised to bring booking confirmation with you.

 
 
 

The Ring Cycle

A spectacular revival of Wagner's Der Ring des Nibelungen

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

Tube: Covent Garden Station , Leicester Square Station

 

Dates: 24th September - 02nd November 2012

 

The Royal Opera season opens with the complete Ring Cycle in 2012, a spectacular revival of Wagner's Der Ring des Nibelungen. The monumental scale of the production is matched with Wagner's epic musical score in a rich tale of ancient sagas, dragons, dwarfs and water nymphs. The full Ring Cycle was last brought to Covent Garden in 2007, now it returns using contemporary themes of modern science to juxtapose the timeless mythology.  With a powerful score, a stunning international cast and bold and vivid staging this emotional and uplifting production promises to be a memorable Opera Season to conclude their Olympic Programme.

 
 
 

Thomas Schutte

The Serpentine Gallery offers an in-depth look at the creator of 'Model for a Hotel'

Serpentine Gallery, Kensington Gardens, South Kensington, London, W2 3XA

Tube: Lancaster Gate Station

 

Dates: 25th September - 18th November 2012

 

For most Londoners, Thomas Schutte is best known for his Model for a Hotel sculpture which occupied The Fourth Plinth in Trafalgar Square for 18 months from 2007. From 25th September 2012 we will be treated to a more in-depth look at the German artist, who lives in Dusseldorf and was born in Oldenburg in 1954, through a solo exhibition at the Serpentine Gallery which focuses on a selection of key sculptural, painted and photographic portraits. The artist who has been "delighting and baffling his audience with works made in a bewildering variety of materials and manners" (The Guardian) has returned to portraiture throughout his career, but this is the first time an exhibition has been dedicated entirely to these works. Key examples of Schutte's most famous works include the Mirror Drawings series described by author and critic John Berger as "works of self-discovery". Another highlight is Vater Staat (Father State), a towering steel sculpture of a figure which reassesses the figurative traditions of art which will surely give visitors a broader understanding of the importance of this contemporary artist - beyond their first impression of his Fourth Plinth hotel.

 
 
 

Michael McIntyre at the O2

McIntyre is returning to what he does best this year with a long awaited tour

, London,

Tube:

 

Dates: 26th September - 06th October 2012

 

Michael McIntyre is one of those universally loved posh people accepted by everyone and despised by few. Long before Jeremy Clarkson got into hot water for joking about Gordon Brown's vision, McIntyre was ridiculing the "one-eyed Prime Minister" and his previous cabinet meetings between Tony Blair and David Blunkett ("there were only three good eyes between them"). Unlike Clarkson, the well-spoken and slightly tubby McIntyre pulled it off - like he does most of his observational gags. Since his laugh out loud stand up routines that have the audience screaming with laughter and exclaiming "that is so true!" He has since moved on to present Michael McIntyre Live at the Apollo, been the loveable judge on Britain's biggest talent show; 'Britain's Got Talent', and released his first book. His trick is simple: his enthusiasm is infectious, his voice hilarious, his observation exemplary, his delivery perfect while on top of that, he seems a genuinely nice chap. Hailed by audiences and critics alike as the best new stand-up to emerge in years, McIntyre is, according to The Telegraph, "quite simply, top-to-toe hilarious". McIntyre is returning to what he does best this year with a long awaited tour, stopping by London's O2 for an impressive eight gigs in September.

 
 
 

Kevin Bridges

The Glaswegian comic continues the story when he tours the UK

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

Tube: Hammersmith Station

 

Dates: 28th - 30th September 2012

 

Glaswegian comic Kevin Bridges comes to London with 'The Story Continues...' his stand-up show which tours the UK in 2012. After appearing on BBC One's Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow in 2009 Bridges hosted the Bafta nominated 'Live At The Apollo' and won the breakthrough award at the 2010 Chortle Awards. His evident popularity is bourne out by the 45,000 tickets that were snapped up on the first day his current tour went on sale. The Perrier-nominated young comedian who has become a firm fixture on TV panel shows thanks to his jet black humour from the heart of Glasgow has a 6 part BBC 1 series - 'Kevin Bridges What's The Story', confirming his promotion from 'rising' to 'established' star of British stand-up.

 
 
 
 

Pearly Kings and Queens Harvest Festival

Smother Suits covered top to toe in sparkly buttons, badges and glitter

Guildhall Yard, Gresham Street, City, London, EC2P 2EJ

Tube: Moorgate Station , Bank Station, St. Paul's Station, Mansion House Station

 

Dates: 29th September 2019

 

What better way to celebrate the change of seasons than with Maypole dancing, Morris dancing and a marching band; and at the Pearly Kings and Queens Harvest Festival you can do just that. Each year the Pearly Kings & Queens come together from every borough of London to welcome the new season in style, and boy what a style they have, with extravagant Smother Suits covered top to toe in sparkly buttons, badges and glitter. The festival starts in the afternoon at Guildhall Yard and continues with a parade to St Mary-le-Bow Church for a harvest festival service at 3pm; harvest offerings are donated to the Whitechapel Mission, a charity aiming to help those caught in poverty.

 
 
 

Big Draw, Big Make

The launch of The Big Draw brings top cartoonists and pop-up studios to the V&A

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

Tube: South Kensington Station

 

Dates: 30th September 2012

 

The launch event for The Big Draw, Big Draw, Big Make, brings pop-up studios, digital drawing games and top cartoonists to the Victoria and Albert Museum the day before the month-long Big Draw begins. You can join top designers Sir Nicholas Grimshaw and Richard Seymour, illustrator Quentin Blake and cartoonist Gerald Scarfe and meet CBeebies star Mister Maker. Explore how rough sketches can communicate ideas with Peter Ayres, architect at Heatherwick Studio, and create a stage set inspired by the Theatre and Performance collection with a little help from London based design and publishing group Roger la Borde. All activities are free, though some require advance booking, and it's a great opportunity to meet the experts, get creative and take inspiration from top cartoonists - who will cross pencils in the Battle of the Cartoonists. The Big Draw festival itself runs throughout October with over 1,000 events taking place across the UK and in 20 other countries. For more information about Big Draw 2012 visit www.campaignfordrawing.org

 
 
 

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