UK Events, News and Info, What's On?

The Lord Mayor's Show - 14th Nov 09

charlotte — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 16:08:00 GMT

14 Nov 2009 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

The history of the Lord Mayor's Show dates back to 1215, when King John granted a charter allowing the citizens of London to elect their own mayor.

Every year since, the newly elected Mayor has travelled from the City of London to Westminster to pledge allegiance to the Crown.

This year marks the 794th Lord Mayor's Show, and these days it is more of a celebration than a show of loyalty. Join in the fun as around half a million people turn out to watch as the colourful procession travels 1.7 miles (2.7km) across London.

The procession begins at 11am at Mansion House following a military flypast. It will travel down Cheapside to St Paul's Cathedral, where the Lord Mayor will be blessed before proceeding to the Royal Courts of Justice on the Strand.

After the Lord Mayor swears allegiance to the Sovereign, the procession makes its way back to the City. At 5pm, the Lord Mayor will launch a spectacular fireworks display on the Thames between Blackfriars Bridge and Waterloo Bridge.

One of the aims of the show is to develop social and practical skills of young people in London. As part of this commitment there will be 4 floats from inner London community groups:

Tropical Isles: Hackney-based organisation providing year-round carnival acts activities with a focus on developing the skills and talents of young local people
City of London Academy (Southwark): The Academy is based in Bermondsey and is playing its part in regenerating this area of Southwark
International Dance and Music Centre: Promotes cultural cohesion within Hackney by offering dance, music, theatre and festival training
Streetwise Opera: Raises the self esteem and confidence of homeless and vulnerably housed people through their engagement with singing and drama workshops

Piano Recital Panayiotis Gogos London - 16/11/2009

charlotte — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 10:08:00 GMT

Chopin, Mozart and Beethoven at the Hellenic Centre On Monday 16 November at 7.15pm

The Hellenic Centre is presenting a piano recital by the distinguished pianist Panayiotis Gogos at its Great Hall.

The program, built around Frederic Chopin's 24 Preludes, also includes the highly dramatic Fantasie by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and the Moonlight Sonata, the most renown of romantic compositions from Ludwig van Beethoven's 32 sonatas. The audience will have the opportunity to appreciate these profoundly emotional works inspired by their famous composers’ private lives.

In 2005, the Greek Academy of Art & Literature in Athens awarded Panayiotis Gogos the prize as “Best Young Soloist.” Panayiotis Gogos is scheduled to perform his debut recital at the famous Konzerthaus Vienna in December 2009. He will also take part in concerts in Rome, Berlin ,Vienna and Athens within next year and he has also been chosen to participate in the ccommemoration for the “Year Chopin 2010,” 200 years from the famous composer’s day of Birth, at the prestigious Polish Society Salon Chopin. His artistry is considered as a continuance to the great pianistic tradition of Alfred Cortot and Edwin Fischer. www.panayiotisgogos.com

Entry is free, but please confirm attendance on 020 7563 9835 or email: press@helleniccentre.org. The Hellenic Centre, 16-18 Paddington St., Marylebone W1U 5AS, www.helleniccentre.org

U2 gig to be streamed on YouTube

charlotte — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 13:24:00 GMT

U2 band have announced that their concert at the Pasadena Rose Bowl in California on Sunday 25th October 2009 will be streamed live on video-sharing website YouTube.

Their website states the following:

"The Rose Bowl show is the penultimate U2 show this year - with more to come in 2010 - and already is set to host the venue's biggest ever audience of over 96,000 fans. The 360° Tour, which has been critically acclaimed and 're-invents rock'n'roll' (Rolling Stone Magazine), will now boast unique access for fans worldwide - as fans in territories yet to be visited by the tour, or not at all, will be able to enjoy the whole show online.

Managed in partnership with Live Nation, this sell-out tour has broken attendance records in most venues it has visited - its success due in part to increased capacity coupled with a lower ticket price and great sight lines afforded by the stunning in-the-round stage set.

U2 manager Paul McGuinness said, 'The band has wanted to do something like this for a long time. As we're filming the LA show, it's the perfect opportunity to extend the party beyond the stadium. Fans often travel long distances to come to see U2 - this time U2 can go to them, globally.'

YouTube will be streaming live across five continents. The show will be available in the usual You Tube way, as video-on-demand, following two full replays - after the live stream - on both U2.com and You Tube.

'YouTube is thrilled to be able to provide our global audience with a live streaming performance from one of the world's greatest bands,' said Chris Maxcy, Director of YouTube Partner Development. 'We are always looking for new ways to connect fans around the world with their favourite artists, and this is the perfect opportunity to do just that."

Spirit of Christmas Fair

charlotte — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 09:25:00 GMT

4 November 2009 to 8 November 2009

Olympia
Hammersmith Road

London

W14 8UX

0)20 8943 5000

If Santa was in London the Spirit of Christmas Fair is where he'd do his festive shopping. With mountains of unique gifts from more than 600 companies, yule have the time of your life!

Sponsored by House & Garden magazine, this annual festive fair stocks everything from hand-crafted gifts to the finest food and wine – much of it unavailable in high-street stores.

But there's so much more at the fair besides presents. Allow an endless stream of experts to inspire you into making this the most memorable Christmas ever, with advice on everything from kids' toys to entertaining your guests.

If you start to feel hungry after all that, tease your taste buds with a selection of award-winning foods in the Gourmet Food Hall. You can choose from the finest delicacies from more than 70 producers and creators of speciality food and wine.

MPH 2009 with Top Gear Live

charlotte — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 14:24:00 GMT

5 November 2009 to 8 November 2009

Earls Court Exhibition Centre
Warwick Road

London

SW5 9TA

(0)20 7385 1200

Amazing stunts, world-class cars and Jeremy Clarkson… if last year's MPH motoring show sold out, tickets to MPH with Top Gear Live are likely to go even quicker this year!

If you're a fan of cars or the world-famous TV show Top Gear, you won't want to miss MPH 2009.

Your ticket includes entry to the brand new Top Gear Live World Tour, presented by Jeremy Clarkson.

The 75-minute show is packed full of live stunts and trademark Top Gear humour, special effects, crashes and customised cars.

Death-defying acrobatic stunts

The world's fastest cars pushed to their limits

Live audience debate

Clarkson's recession-proof motoring solutions using household items

The Stig leading a group of international stunt drivers by means of hand gestures, sonic pulses and morse code

RHS London Autumn Harvest Show

charlotte — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 16:57:00 GMT

13 Oct 2009 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM; 14 Oct 2009 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Royal Horticultural Halls & Conference Centre
80 Vincent Square, Westminster, London. SW1P 2PE

(0)20 7828 4125

This year, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) London Autumn Harvest Show celebrates seasonal produce, with plenty to see – and to taste!

It's a great opportunity to pick up tips from the RHS experts and find inspiration for new ways to plant in your garden, whatever its size.

The RHS holds four seasonal events in London each year at the Royal Horticultural Halls & Conference Centre in Westminster.

Autumn is a time for harvesting, so what better time to celebrate and enjoy fresh produce.

At the London Autumn Harvest Show this October, you can find:

Top-quality seasonal produce to buy and taste
Expert planting advice for gardeners from the RHS advisory team
Seasonal plant displays and sales from award-winning UK nurseries
Colourful displays of fruit, vegetables and flowers
Gardening goodies
Talks and demonstrations

If you're green fingered, why not enter one of the RHS competitions too? They're open to everyone!

MasterChef LIVE

charlotte — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 16:57:00 GMT

13 November 2009 to 15 November 2009

Olympia
Hammersmith Road

London

W14 8UX

(0)20 8943 5000

www.londonbbcgoodfoodshow.com

The food extravaganza formerly known as BBC Good Food Show returns to London's Olympia.

There are plenty of food-related activities to get your teeth into, plus appearances and demonstrations from Wendi Peters, Michel Roux Jnr and Monica Galletti.

You can even cook up a storm in MasterChef's famous Invention Test!

MasterChef LIVE is packed full of brand new features to discover, including:

MasterChef v MasterChef: previous Masterchef contestants go head-to-head
MasterChef MasterClasses: hands-on cooking advice from the experts
MasterChef Hot Tips pods: practical tips on essential cooking skills
The MasterChef Restaurant: taste winning dishes from the TV series, plus top London restaurants such as The Ivy, Le Caprice, Daphne's, Skylon and Roast.

Bristol International Festival of Kites and Air Creations - 12th & 13th September 2009

charlotte — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 14:36:00 GMT

Bristol’s popular International Festival of Kites & Air Creations will take Ashton Court by storm.

The Festival is one of the region’s most distinctive and colourful public events, attracting spectators and enthusiasts of all ages and kite flyers from around the world. As well as a fantastic kite extravaganza the event provides the UK’s only showcase for designers, operators and manufacturers of inflatables, play structures and air sculptures.

The Festival features spectacular flying displays, aerial battles, breathtaking choreographed routines and awesome power kites as well as colourful examples of kites, banners and inflatables of all shapes and sizes.

Ashton Court Estate
Long Ashton
Bristol
BS41 9JN

0117 974 5010

http://www.kite-festival.org.uk/

thelondonpaper Headliners

charlotte — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 10:16:00 GMT

16 September 2009 to 17 September 2009

0871 230 2200

www.thelondonpaper.com/headliners

Two-days of fab music spanning multiple Soho venues at this brand new festival.

The Headliners line-up includes Sophie Ellis-Bextor, The Magic Numbers and VV Brown.

Headliners takes place across 20 top Soho music venues. Once you've got your wrist band, you'll have access to them all.

The Line-up at Headliners

So far, the line-up in London includes:

Sophie Ellis-Bextor
Doves
Biffy Clyro
The Magic Numbers
Just Jack
VV Brown
Gabriella Cilmi
Esser
Frankmusik
Ou Est Le Swimming Pool

The Natural History Museum's New Darwin Centre

charlotte — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 14:28:00 GMT

1 September 2009 to 18 January 2010

The Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London. SW7 5BD

0207 942 5000

This September, London's renowned Natural History Museum completes its new state-of-the-art facility, the Darwin Centre.

The first phase, containing 22 million zoological specimens stored in alcohol, opened in 2002.

From September, you can also venture into the final piece of the project – a 65-metre-long (213 ft), 8-storey cocoon-shaped structure, which houses 17 million insect and 3 million plant specimens.

An interactive tour of the cocoon to see the museum's collections and the projects of world-class researchers working at the centre

The Attenborough Studio: where you can discover more about the natural world and current scientific issues through multimedia, talks, and face-to-face encounters with scientists

Angela Marmont Centre for UK Biodiversity: dedicated to the study of the UK's natural world and a haven for wildlife groups, societies and researchers

The new Darwin Centre cost £78 million and took 280 people 25 months to build.

Creamfields 2009

charlotte — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 10:40:00 GMT

Creamfields 2009 returns with another massive lineup and sees some of the biggest dance names on the bill. This year's Creamfields takes place on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th August in Daresbury, Cheshire and the headliners are Tiesto and Basment Jaxx.

Radio 1 will be broadcasting live from Creamfields bringing you the very latest news from backstage and interviews. Plus keep listening for details on an extended Essential Mix from some of the very best DJ's at the festival and a whole host of Radio 1 DJ's will be at the festival including Pete Tong, Annie Mac, Judge Jules, Kutski and Jaymo & Andy George.

All Creamfields camping tickets have sold out! With this years dance festival of the Summer just 11 days away, there are only limited day tickets and weekend non camping tickets available for this years festival. We urge anyone wishing to attend this years event to purchase their tickets as soon as possible to avoid disappointment as we’re predicting all tickets…

www.creamfields.com

SATURDAY 29TH AUGUST:

Tiësto / Mylo Live / David Guetta / Luciano presents Æther Live / Laurent Garnier Live / John Digweed / Pete Tong / Friendly Fires Live / Steve Angello / Axwell / Sebastian Ingrosso / Erol Alkan / Crookers / James Zabiela / Boys Noize / Hernan Cattaneo / Kissy Sell Out / Danny Howells / Andy C / Hype / High Contrast / Chase & Status / Mark Knight / Dirty South / Dave Spoon / Skream & Benga / Busy P vs DJ Feadz / Nick Warren / DJ Marky / Friction / Filthy Dukes / Funkagenda / MC Beardyman / NTYPE / Gareth Wyn / Kim Fai / Rich Reason / Ken Evil / MC Dynamite / IC3 / MC GQ / SP:MC / Tonn Piper / Mad Rush / Rage MC / Phil Faversham / Dean Rigg / Sarah Louise / Alan Hartley / Deeyana on Sax / Dean Oram on Percussion

SUNDAY 30TH AUGUST:

Basement Jaxx / Paul van Dyk / Dizzie Rascal / 2manydjs Live / Calvin Harris Live / Erick Morillo / Sasha / Ferry Corsten / Deadmau5 / Dubfire / Timo Maas / Diplo / Annie Mac / Sander van Doorn / Laidback Luke / Judge Jules / Yousef / Tidy Boys / John O’Callaghan / Dirty Vegas Live / Delphic Live / Brodinski / Aeroplane / Fake Blood / Yuksek Live / Toddla T / Showtek / Kutski / Dark by Design / Organ Donors / Mark EG / Rob Tissera / Bootek Live / Tidy DJ’s / Burn the Negative / Jack Beats / Casiokids / Young Fathers / Jaymo & Andy George / Example / Jordan Suckley / John Jones / Jim Breese / Carl Hanaghan / Andy Mac / Cassette Jam / Anthony Probyn / Lee Ellis / Anton Powers / Rob H / Lady V on Sax / Dean Oram on Percussion

May starts building Lego house

charlotte — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 16:50:00 GMT

Top Gear presenter James May has begun his attempt to build a house entirely out of Lego bricks.

May has vowed to live for a few days in the life-sized house, which comes complete with a working shower and toilet, once it has been completed.

It is being built in the middle of the Denbies Wine Estate, in Dorking, for the BBC series James May's Toy Stories.

A spokesman for Denbies said hundreds of people had turned up and everyone had a good time helping out.

Some fans queued from 0430 BST to get their hands on one of the 600 tickets that were released, enabling them and a friend to help May build the house.

Each helper had to create full sized bricks out of 272 Lego pieces.

More than three million bricks were delivered to the site last week, but people were still asked to take any unwanted Lego with them.

Builders will now spend six days constructing the house out of the large Lego blocks.

CREATE09

charlotte — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 13:54:00 GMT

1 June 2009 to 30 September 2009

http://www.createlondon.org/

CREATE was launched in 2008 as an annual festival to help celebrate London's Cultural Olympiad in the build up to London 2012.

Held in the host boroughs of Greenwich, Hackney, Newham, Tower Hamlets and Waltham Forest, CREATE will incorporate major festivals and outdoor events.

There will be a huge range of activities on offer, from music, dance, crafts and theatre to carnivals, parades and exhibitions, many with an Olympic theme.

Greenwich Parkfest – Greenwich's parks and open spaces will host a free open-air programme featuring public performances and participatory arts activities. 6 Jun-30 Aug

Henry Days – Enjoy a weekend of Tudor-themed festivities at the Old Royal Naval College to mark the 500th anniversary of King Henry VIII's accession to the throne. 13-14 Jun

King Henry VIII: 500th anniversary jousting display – The majesty, pomp and pageantry of a typical jousting tournament comes to Eltham Palace. 20-21 Jun

Young London: Into Music – A new urban youth festival aimed at developing the next generation of musicians in East London by working with industry professionals and showcasing the talents of local stars. 26 Jun-2 Aug

Greenwich Film Festival – A celebration of film at venues and parks across Greenwich including guided walking tours of local film locations. 24-26 Jul

Dominoes – Station House Opera's amazing commission will see a moving sculpture of thousands of concrete blocks toppling in a giant 10-mile domino rally across East and South East London. 26 Jul

The Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert Galleries

charlotte — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 13:13:00 GMT

30 June 2009 to 30 December 2009

Victoria and Albert Museum, South Kensington, Cromwell Road, London. SW7 2RL

(0)20 7942 2000

The Gilbert Collection is one of the most important collections ever given to Britain, with pieces linked to prominent historical figures such as Frederick the Great, Catherine the Great and Napoleon.

The extensive Gilbert Collection was given to Britain in 1996.

It was first presented at London's Somerset House from 2000 to 2008.

Highlights of the collection on display at the V&A include:

A pair of silver-gilt rimmonim, shown with a Torah crown
A pair of monumental silver and gilt gates, thought to have been commissioned by Catherine the Great
Miniature portraits of key historical figures such as George Washington, the Duchess of Devonshire and Oliver Cromwell
A snuffbox set with a portrait of Philip V of Spain, a declaration of love to Elisabetta Farnese whom he married in 1714
Gold boxes associated with Frederick the Great of Prussia and set with diamonds, rubies, emeralds and carved hardstones
Two micromosaic vases and a clock decorated with mosaic panels, given by Pope Pius VII to Napoleon on his coronation in 1804

First gallery: 16th and 17th-century silver, plus ornamental objects
Second gallery: 18th and 19th-century silver and portrait miniatures
Third gallery: more than 200 gold boxes, used to hold small sweets or snuff
Fourth gallery: hardstone mosaics and glass micromosaics on large cabinets, tables, pictures, clocks, jewellery and more

Ibiza 2009

charlotte — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 12:58:00 GMT

Stay locked to Radio 1 on the 31 July and the 1 and 8 August.

To kick things off Pete Tong, Annie Mac and Vernon Kay are bringing sunshine vibes from Ibiza Rocks Hotel, featuring a special sunset set from Florence And The Machine whilst Judge Jules, Kutski and Trevor Nelson keep the party going with more sets and shows over the weekend.

Friday 31 July

:: 1900–2100 Pete Tong and Vernon Kay come live from Ibiza Rocks Hotel Party with a performance from Deadmau5 featuring Rob Swire from Pendulum, a DJ set from Steve Angello, a live PA from Example and a very special Florence & The Machine live acoustic sunset moment

:: 2100-2300 Annie Mac live from Ibiza Rocks Hotel Party with a performance from Miike Snow and guest mixes from Fake Blood & Pendulum

:: 2300-0100 Judge Jules and Kutski from Judgement Sundays, the previous Sunday at Eden

:: 0100-0400 Live from Wonderland at Eden - Deadmau5 and Luciano

:: 0400-0700 A-Z of Ibiza with Rob Da Bank

Saturday 1 August

:: 1900-2100 Trevor Nelson live from Café Mambo radio studios

Friday 8 August

:: 2300-0100 Judge Jules live from Café Mambo radio studio

:: 0100-0500 Extended Ibiza Essential Mix - highlights from Cream @ Privilege recorded during Radio 1’s Ibiza Weekend

Giants of the Galapagos

charlotte — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 16:54:00 GMT

17 Jul 2009 - 06 Sep 2009 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM

ZSL London Zoo, Regent's Park, London. N4RY

(0)20 7722 3333

The new Giants of the Galapagos exhibit includes indoor and outdoor areas with fantastic viewing points in a barrier free environment.

The exhibit is styled on the tortoises' natural habitat and consists of watering holes and mud wallows.

Giants of the Galapagos is both fun and educational, giving all ages the chance to learn about the Galapagos. You can compare your weight to one of these gentle giants and learn more about Darwin's visit to the Galapagos Islands too.

They're the largest tortoises in the world, they can live for more than 150 years, and they carry around huge, bony shells that they hide inside if they feel threatened.

Despite their size, Galapagos tortoises are gentle giants, and over the last few 100 years they haven't been too good at fending off predators.

T In The Park 2009 - Balado - 10th to 12th July

charlotte — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 16:23:00 GMT

From 10 - 12 July, one of the most exciting festivals of the summer returns to Balado in Kinross-shire.

Radio 1 will be there to bring you the best bits from backstage, live music highlights and all the latest news.

Friday 10th July1-4pm: Edith Bowman live from site with highlights from previous T's and chat with some of the early arrivals

Saturday 11th July 4-7pm: Radio 1's T In The Park Request Show. Huw Stephens anchors 3 hours of a-list requests from the very biggest and best artists appearing at T 2009, plus live music from the Friday night and Saturday afternoon - and acoustic performances from BBC3's InTimate stage

Monday 13th July 9pm-12am: Radio 1's T In The Park Special - with Nick Grimshaw

Wednesday 15th July: 9pm-10pm: In New Music We Trust - The Best Of Introducing At T In The Park with Huw Stephens and Vic Galloway.

12am-2am: Introducing - further highlights from T In The Park with a simulcast of Huw Stephens in England and Vic Galloway in Scotland

iTunes Live London Festival 09

charlotte — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 09:26:00 GMT

1 July 2009 to 31 July 2009

Roundhouse, Chalk Farm Road, London, NW1 8EH

+44 (0)20 7424 9991

The iTunes festival is back following last year's success. This year's line-up is even better and features music heavyweights and new acts aplenty. Highlights include:

Oasis
Kasabian
Friendly Fires
Franz Ferdinand
Jack Penate

To get your free tickets, you'll need to become a fan of the iTunes Live London Festival on Facebook.

If you don't have a Facebook account, there are a limited number of tickets which you can register for at www.ituneslive.co.uk/lineup

Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championship

charlotte — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 15:07:00 GMT

22 June 2009 to 5 July 2009

All England Lawn Tennis Club, Museum Building, London

London

SW19 5AE

(0)20 8946 6131

The world of tennis descends on Wimbledon in London every summer for two weeks of tennis, strawberries and cream and good-natured queuing.

The Wimbledon tennis tournament in London attracts around 500,000 spectators and millions of television viewers worldwide.

During the tournament Wimbledon sells approximately 500 tickets each day for Centre Court (except for the last four days), Court No.1 and Court No.2. You should expect to queue overnight for a chance to buy one of these tickets.

Around 6,000 ground admission tickets for Wimbledon are also available each day for entry to the grounds. These tickets give you the chance to watch games from the No.2 Court standing enclosure and from unreserved seating and standing on the outside courts, as well as popular areas such as "Henman Hill".

Ground admission tickets are for the whole day's visit to Wimbledon, not for individual matches.

Once ground capacity has been reached, queuers are admitted on a one out, one in basis as spectators finally leave the Wimbledon grounds.

During the first week, the early rounds of the Men's and Ladies' Singles and Men's, Ladies' and Mixed Doubles are played, with the top seeds' playing on Centre Court and Courts 1 and 2.

On the middle Saturday, the Veterans' and Juniors' events start and are played on the outside courts as well as on some of the show courts.

Royal Ascot

charlotte — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 15:28:00 GMT

16 June 2009 to 20 June 2009

Ascot Racecourse

Ascot

Berkshire

SL5

0870 7271234

Royal Ascot is an annual race meet that is the place to see and be seen for high society, royal watchers, fun seekers and horse racing enthusiasts alike!

Steeped in tradition, heritage and pageantry, Royal Ascot dates back almost 300 years and is attended by the Royal Family, including Her Majesty the Queen.

Founded by Queen Anne in 1711, Royal Ascot features a daily horse-drawn procession from Windsor Castle to Ascot Racecourse led by the Royal carriage.

Although the eye-catching fashion steals the show at Royal Ascot, this colourful occasion also features top-quality horse racing.

Racing highlights of Royal Ascot include the Golden Jubilee Stakes and the Gold Cup. Prize money for the week typically totals almost half a million pounds!

The Queen has enjoyed considerable success at Royal Ascot, having to date owned 20 winners including Free Agent, who won the Chesham Stakes in 2008.

Clarence House Summer Opening

charlotte — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 16:15:00 GMT

5 August 2009 to 27 September 2009

10:00 - 16:00. All tickets are timed and must be pre-booked.

Clarence House, The Mall, London. SW1A 1BA

Wander around Clarence House, and see the rooms where Prince Charles and Camilla entertain guests from around the world, on this tour of the Prince's official pad!

From 1953 to 2002 Clarence House was the home of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.

The arrangement of the rooms and the grouping of their contents remain much as they were in the Queen Mother's time, with much of Her Majesty's collection of art and furniture in their former positions.

Clarence House is home to much of the Queen Mother's famous art collection, including outstanding 20th-century paintings such as important works by:

John Piper
Graham Sutherland
WS Sickert
Augustus John

Greenwich and Docklands International Festival

charlotte — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 10:35:00 GMT

June 2009 to 28 June 2009

http://www.festival.org/

Now in its 13th year, the Greenwich and Docklands International Festival is one of London's most spectacular free, outdoor events.

Featuring an incredible programme of performances, live entertainment and family fun, the festival transforms East London into a sea of colour.

Each year the festival follows a particular theme, and this year the chosen theme is water, so you can expect to see plenty of action along the Thames.

Five new commissions, four world premieres and five London premieres promise to make this festival one of London's most exciting outdoor arts event this year.

Water Music – National Maritime Museum. A stunning celebration of the 250th anniversary of the composer Handel, with an outdoor son et lumiere inspired by the Thames. 25, 26 & 27 Jun, 10pm

Fous de Bassin (Waterfools) – Millwall Dock, Isle of Dogs. French company Ilotopie will transport you to a dreamlike water world. Features floating structures, pyrotechnics and music in a poetic spectacle where the performers literally walk on water. 25 & 26 Jun, 10pm

Dancing City – Canary Wharf. A day of international outdoor dance performances around Canary Wharf's striking squares, stairs, fountains and waterfront views. 27 Jun, 1-5pm

Throughout the festival a series of intriguing and unexpected performances be popping up around Greenwich as part of Greenwich Waves.

These wonderful surprise events take place in Cutty Sark Gardens, the Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich Park and at the Royal Observatory.

West End Breakfast for Anna Friel

charlotte — Tue, 19 May 2009 14:39:00 GMT

Actress Anna Friel is to star in a West End stage production of Truman Capote's novella Breakfast at Tiffany's.

The ex-Brookside star will play Holly Golightly, the role Audrey Hepburn played in the Oscar-winning 1961 film.

Friel, 32, said she was "delighted to have been given the opportunity to play one of my all time favourite heroines".

The show will open in September at the Theatre Royal Haymarket, where Sir Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart are now appearing in Waiting for Godot.

Sean Mathias, that show's director, will also direct Breakfast at Tiffany's, which has been adapted for the stage by British playwright Samuel Adamson.

Download Festival - Donnington - Radio 1 - 12th-14th June 2009

charlotte — Mon, 11 May 2009 10:37:00 GMT

The UK's biggest rock festival returns to Donington on June 12/14 2009, and Radio 1 will exclusively be there to bring you live sets from some of the best rock artists in the world.

The festival organisers have already announced that Slipknot, The Prodigy, Korn, Dragon Force, Devildriver, Pendulum, MötleyCrüe, Limp Bizkit, Trivium, Def Leppard, Whitesnake, ZZ Top, Marilyn Manson, Anvil, Billy Talent, The Blackout, Down, Chris Cornell, Papa Roach, Lacuna Coil, Journey, Blackstone Cherry, Skin, Tesla, Clutch , Karma To Burn, Parkway Drive, Architects, Dream Theater and Buckcherry, Killswitch Engage and Faith No More will perform at Donington Park this year.

Also confirmed are:

Hatebreed
A Day to Remember
In This Moment
Middle class rut
Manraze
No Americana
Hostile
Esoterica
Ripper Owens
God forbid
Suicide Silence
Backyard Babies
Therapy?
Voivod Sylosis
Turbo Wolf
We Are The Ocean

Radio 1 will be there to bring you the best of the festival and for all the latest news.

For more information visit downloadfestival.co.uk

Trooping the Colour - The Queen's Birthday Parade

charlotte — Fri, 08 May 2009 09:20:00 GMT

13 June 2009 - 10.00 - 12.15

Horse Guards Parade Whitehall, London. SW1A 2AX

020 7414 2357

Trooping the Colour is an annual event that takes place on Horse Guards Parade in London's St James's Park in June, marking The Queen's official birthday.

The ceremony of Trooping the Colour is full of military pomp and pageantry as The Queen carries out an inspection of the troops from the Household Division.

The Queen then leads the troops down the Mall to Buckingham Palace, one of London's most famous landmarks.

The Queen salutes and guns are fired in Green Park and at the Tower of London. Finally she joins other members of the Royal Family on the balcony to watch the RAF flypast.

After existing in various forms from around 1700, the Trooping the Colour ceremony was restored in 1820 on the accession of King George IV.

The main aspects of the parade have changed very little since then. Trooping the Colour has been held each year in London, apart from during the world wars and a national rail strike in 1955.

Although the official birthday is celebrated in June, Queen Elizabeth II's actual birthday is in April. Monarchs are traditionally given a second birthday if they were born in winter, in case the weather is unsuitable for an outdoor event!

The Great London Garden Trail

charlotte — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:53:00 GMT

12:00pm - 4:00pm - 4 May 2009

www.dk.com/gardentrail

The Great London Garden Trail is a great opportunity to look around ten designer gardens for free.

Find out how professional garden designers have made the most of outdoor spaces ranging from back gardens to roof terraces.

You may even meet the designers themselves, as they'll be present in many of the gardens to answer questions and give out plant lists.

The event is designed to celebrate the launch of the RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) Encyclopaedia of Garden Design.

Highlights of the Great London Garden Trail include:

Great Ormond Street Hospital designed by Andy Sturgeon. This rooftop garden features bold architectural designs, including wooden arches and innovative raised flower beds. It's not normally open to the public, so don't miss your chance to see it now
Loftus Road designed by Emma Plunket. This typical long London back garden has a "secret" garden at the end, where neighbours share allotment space, fruit trees and a swing
Beaufort Street designed by Fiona Stephenson. Visit this communal garden above the shops in Kings Road and you'll discover a host of exotic plants, plus a cobalt blue water feature in the shape of irises

Camden Crawl

charlotte — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 17:07:00 GMT

24 April 2009 to 25 April 2009

0871 230 2200

www.thecamdencrawl.com

The Camden Crawl is one of the most famous and best-loved events in London's music calendar.

Spend a whole weekend in music heaven as you journey round 40 of Camden's top venues, including:

The Roundhouse
Koko
Electric Ballroom
Purple Turtle
Dublin Castle

The full line-up and stage times are a closely guarded secret right until the last minute but many artists have already confirmed, including:

Echo & The Bunnymen
Kasabian
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
The Enemy
Idlewild
Little Boots
VV Brown
The Von Bondies
Pulled Apart By Horses
Danny & The Champions Of The World

Entertainment includes:

Underbelly – one of the main comedy promoters at Edinburgh Festival bring a line-up of comedians to the Crawl
Bloody Awful Poetry – including acoustic music, a poetry wall, a confession booth and art exhibitions
Bookslam – gathering together storytellers from all disciplines
Indie Idle – an unsigned artist competition
Hawley Arms Sessions – this famous Camden venue hosts acoustic sounds
Hunga Munga's Camden Cocktail – arts and crafts in a cocktail bar
Karauke – sing along to a band of ukeleles
Speed hating – from Feeling Gloomy

Animal Adventure at London Zoo

charlotte — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 09:31:00 GMT

3 April 2009 to 3 October 2009

ZSL London Zoo, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY. 020 7722 3333

A new exhibit at ZSL London Zoo (Zoological Society London) opens just in time for the Easter holidays this year.

The Animal Adventure area has been built on the site of the world's first children's zoo and allows kids to get up close and personal with a range of different animals.

Created by world-class designers who enlisted the help of children for ideas and testing, this £2.3 million exhibit offers a wonderful experience for young and old alike.

Animal Adventure will bring kids as young as three face-to-face with red pandas, prairie dogs, porcupines and a host of other interesting animals.

Tree Zone is a climbing adventure area where you can scale climbing frames to meet a family of coatis and their cape crested porcupine neighbours

Root Zone allows children to tunnel underground to see how aardvarks and other subterranean animals live

Splash Zone teaches kids about wildlife in the water

Touch Zone gives you the chance to get close enough to pat alpacas as well as resident llamas, Perry and Beegee.

ZSL London Zoo is located centrally, in North London's Regent's Park. It has over 750 species of animal, from the smallest monkey to the tall giraffe.

Snowbombing 2009

charlotte — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 14:16:00 GMT

Mayrhofen, Austria, 29 March - 4 April

http://www.snowbombing.com/en/

From 29 March – 4 April, one of the most unique festivals of the winter returns to Mayrhofen, Austria for its tenth birthday.

The festival organisers have already confirmed the following acts, Fatboy Slim, Dizzee Rascal, Biffy Clyro, Kissy Sell Out, The View, Mylo, Zane Lowe, Layo and Bushwacka!, La Roux, Mongrel, Rumblestrips, Mr Hudson, Reverend and the Makers, Ladyhawke, Dan Black and Annie Nightingale, Heidi, Andy George and Jaymo.

Radio 1 will be there to bring you the best bits from behind the scenes. Highlights from Snowbombing will be broadcast on Annie Nightingales' show on 11 April including mixes from Krafty Kuts and Soul of Man.

The Robot Zoo

charlotte — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 16:29:00 GMT

28 Mar 2009 - 01 Nov 2009 Daily 10:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Horniman Museum and Gardens

100 London Road,

SE23 3PQ

020 8699 1872

The Robot Zoo is a menagerie of moving creatures that gives an insight into animal anatomy.

This family exhibition, which is visiting London for the first time, consists of eight larger than life-size robot animals and 11 interactive displays, which allow visitors to explore animal life in more depth.

Using a clever mix of pipes, pistons, hydraulics, lighting and sound, these robotic figures offer an understanding of how these animals move, eat and survive in the wild.

Children and adults alike will marvel at the unique adaptations to their surroundings made by the eight very different animals, which are:

Chameleon

Giant squid

Rhinoceros

Giraffe

Grasshopper

Platypus

House fly

Bat

Radio 1's Big Weekend - Swindon

charlotte — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 10:10:00 GMT

The biggest free ticketed event in Europe.

Radio 1's Big Weekend takes place on 9-10 May 2009 at Lydiard Park, Swindon.

Radio 1's Big Weekend grew from the incredibly popular One Big Sundays - free open-air shows with top pop acts. When 100,000 people turned up to the Leicester show it was clear we were on to something good.

The major artists play the Main Stage, while the artists you hear on Radio 1's evening shows are on the In New Music We Trust stage. Around seven artists perform on each stage each day.

Who's played at Big Weekend?

Madonna, The Kooks, Usher, The Enemy, Nelly, Editors, The Raconteurs, The Zutons, Kasabian, Scissor Sisters, Bloc Party, Franz Ferdinand, Gnarls Barkley, Keane, Muse, Mylo, Pink, Primal Scream, Razorlight, Sugababes, Foo Fighters, Chemical Brothers, Black Eyed Peas, Gwen Stefani, Destiny's Child, Alicia Keys, Jamiroquai, Basement Jaxx, White Stripes, Stereophonics, The Darkness, Travis, Dido, Ash, Kelis, Faithless, The Streets, Avril Lavigne, Magic Numbers, Kaiser Chiefs, Maximo Park, The Kooks, Hot Chip and more.

Head of the River Race 2009

charlotte — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 17:07:00 GMT

11.00am Saturday 21 March 2009

Mortlake Stone

www.horr.co.uk

London's Head of the River Race in March is one of the city's longest running sporting traditions.

This spring, more than 400 crews from around the globe will take to the waters of London's famous Thames River to compete in this historic boating event.

The Head of the River Race (HORR) was started in 1926 by Cambridge and Tideway oarsman, Steve Fairbairn. It was conceived as a way for crews to practice long rows during winter, in preparation for the summer regatta.

The annual event now sees hundreds of boats, each manned by eight men, row over the 4.25 mile (6.8km) championship course from Mortlake to Putney.

It is customary for the previous year's winner to start first. They are followed at 10-second intervals by other crews in finishing order and finally, the new entries start in alphabetical order.

The race sees crews from all over the world competing, from Australia to Austria.

Red Nose Day - 13th March 2009

charlotte — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 11:55:00 GMT

Red Nose Day 2009 is taking place on Friday 13 March.

For more information check out www.rednoseday.com

In schools, offices and homes across the land, everyone wears - you've guessed it - the latest Red Nose - this year there's 3 to choose from - and does whatever tickles their fancy to raise cash.

Red Nose Day culminates in a night of hilarious comedy and moving documentary films on BBC One - it's a night when the only place to be is right in front of the TV screen.

All this funny business unites the whole nation in trying to make a difference to the lives of thousands of people living in abject poverty, or facing terrible injustice, both across Africa and in the UK.

To help you get involved, raise stacks of cash and change lives - there are tons of treats in store, including:

Not one, not two, but THREE amazing Red Noses to pick!
Our most fashionable range of t-shirts ever created - designed by Stella McCartney!
A cracking line up of entertainment across the BBC - including a very special edition of Comic Relief Does The Apprentice
The Red Nose Climb which will see a top team of nine celebrities attempt to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro to raise mountains of cash
Our seven hour TV extravaganza with the cream of comedy, entertainment and music stars on the night of Friday 13 March

Don't forget, Red Nose Day 2009 is coming your way on Friday 13 March and, whatever you do, Do Something Funny for Money!

St Patrick's Day Festival 2009

charlotte — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:01:00 GMT

St Patrick's Day is 17 March. Events run from 9 - 17 March

The St Patrick's Day Parade takes place on 15 March this year (St Patrick's Day is 17 March).

Join the crowds who turn out to watch marching bands, floats, street theatre and more. All 32 Irish counties are represented, dressed in their traditional county colours, as well as London's Irish community and other Londoners.

This year's St Patrick's Day Festival is being held on 15 March in London's Trafalgar Square. Come along with the family to enjoy a free afternoon of Irish food, dance, crafts, culture and music.

As well as the main event in Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden and Leicester Square are hosting celebrations of all things Irish on 15 March, making it a fun day to spend out and about in central London.

Leading up to the Parade and Festival on Sunday and culminating on the official St Patrick's Day on 17 March, you can experience a week of Irish-themed events across London, running from 9 to 17 March.

EDF Energy Ideal Home Show

charlotte — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 11:08:00 GMT

March 2009 to 13 April 2009

Earls Court Exhibition Centre,

Warwick Road,

SW5 9TA

+44 (0)20 7385 1200

The EDF Energy Ideal Home Show at Earls Court in London has something for everyone.

With a renewed focus on home improvement, thrifty living and eco initiatives, whether you own or rent, the Ideal Home Show will help you get the most out of your home and garden.

The huge range of exhibitors means you'll see all the latest products from emerging brands and tried and trusted names, plus a large selection of entertaining and informative displays.

Ideal Home Economics – looking at effective solutions to reduce the cost of living

Eco Efficiency – creative approaches to a life on the greener side

Daily shows on hot new innovations for the home at the Smarter Living Theatre20

Some of the celebrity names who will be appearing at the Ideal Home Show include:

Aldo Zilli, Sophie Grigson and Raymond Blanc demonstrating easy recipies and cooking tips in the Chef's Kitchen
Alison Cork doing a special Bargain Hunter Live edition
David Domoney, Tommy Walsh, Craig Phillips and Terri Dwyer from 60 minute makeover
Stylish brands such as Huelsta, Cola Red and Poggenpohl

Valentines Day in London

charlotte — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 11:08:00 GMT

Music in London on Valentine's DayPianist Dominic Piers Smith and the London Philharmonic Orchestra present a series of romantic classics at the Royal Festival Hall's Valentine's Day Concert.Alternatively, enjoy classical music by candle light at St Martin-in-the-Fields as the London Musical Arts Orchestra perform a concert of works by the likes of Elgar, Tchaikovsky and Strauss, accompanied by readings from popular love poems.YolanDa Brown returns to the Jazz Café for a Valentine's Day Special. With a full live band and special guest appearances, this award-winning jazz singer will get you in the mood for love!Valentine's Day at Rich Mix includes a special screening of the cult 80s film Babylon followed by a long-awaited performance by Aswad. The popular reggae duo has enjoyed a series of hits, including Don't Turn Around and Shine.

Arts and Culture in London on Valentine's DayThe National Gallery's special twilight tours for Valentine's Day, taking the theme of love, the tours will explore some of the gallery’s most romantic paintings.Valentine's Day Double Bill at Riverside Studios, featuring the timeless Casablanca, followed by the charming Breakfast at Tiffany's, sit back and enjoy an afternoon of classic cinema!Snuggle up under the stars with a warm blanket for the National Theatre's free outdoor screening of Shakespeare in Love. Starring Gwyneth Paltrow and Joseph Fiennes, this romantic film is a perfect choice for Valentine's Day. It will be projected onto the Fly Tower from 8.15pm, with best views from the Baylis Terrace.

Shockwaves NME Awards 2009

charlotte — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 11:29:00 GMT

20 January 2009 to 24 February 2009

Legendary music magazine, NME celebrates its annual award ceremony with a string of gigs around the capital.

This famous weekly has been running since 1952 and has a massive influence on who makes it in the music industry.

In recent times the NME has championed The Strokes, The White Stripes and The Arctic Monkeys. All these acts have gone on to achieve phenomenal commercial success.

This year's Big Gig will be at London's O2 for the second year running. NME's 2009 Godlike Geniuses Award winners, The Cure will headline.

The band formed in 1976 and had a string of successful hits throughout the 80s and 90s. Their biggest selling singles include the classics:

Boys Don't Cry
The Lovecats
Friday I'm in Love

Come and see some of the edgiest new bands give storming performances. Many acts are still to be announced, but highlights from this year's confirmed programme include:

Mystery Jets
The Wombats
Tricky
Howling Bells

Six Nations Rugby: England v Italy

charlotte — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 11:32:00 GMT

7 February 2009 - 3:00 PM

Twickenham Rugby Stadium

Rugby Rd

Twickenham

TW1 1DZ

England kick off their 2009 Six Nations rugby campaign in London with a match against Italy at Twickenham.

England Coach Martin Johnson will hope his young team can start the year off on a high note, but they face a tough, physical game against the ever-improving Azzurri.

This will be a bruising encounter, and England's young pack of forwards can expect a tough battle up front against the heavy-scrumming Italians.

Shakespeare at The Tobacco Factory - Bristol

charlotte — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 16:44:00 GMT

The Tobacco Factory
Raleigh Road
Bristol
BS3 1TF

12/02/2009 - 21/03/2009

26/03/2009 - 02/05/2009

Tel: 0117 902 0344

For its 10th anniversary season Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory offers one of its biggest companies to date to recreate all the passion and sweep, the joy, farce and tragedy of Shakespeare’s Roman world.

Two great tragedies in which Shakespeare explores truths and legends of classical history: the assassination of Julius Caesar and the doomed romance between the Roman Mark Antony and the Egyptian Queen Cleopatra.

Though wonderfully contrasting in character – and complete in themselves - both plays turn on intense collisions between the personal and political. Julius Caesar sees Brutus, a man of huge integrity, persuaded to murder his friend to protect the political ideals of the Roman Republic. Antony & Cleopatra portrays an all-consuming love invaded and destroyed by the Imperial tyranny that followed that fatal decision.

The Smallest Show on Earth

charlotte — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 17:48:00 GMT

The Little Theatre Cinema
St. Michael's Place
Bath
BA1 1SF
Tel: +44 (0) 7893 543113

'The Smallest Show on Earth' will take place to celebrate 70 years of fetaure films at the Little Theatre Cinema on Wednesday 4th February, with Q&A special guests Virginia McKenna & Leslie Phillips.

Franz Ferdinand live at Maida Vale

charlotte — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 11:40:00 GMT

On Monday 26 January, Zane will broadcast an exclusive two hour show live from the legendary Maida Vale Studios - and he's joined by some very special guests - Franz Ferdinand.

We'll be hearing a live set from the band including tracks off the new album 'Tonight: Franz Ferdinand' - as well as some favourites from their back catalogue too.

Zane Lowe: 7pm - 9pm on Monday 26 January - and listen again online for 7 days.

Burns Night in London

charlotte — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 17:54:00 GMT

Have a bonnie Burns night at Scottish bar and restaurant, Albannach.

You can be sure of a traditional Burns Night with all the trimmings, including:

A delicious five-course dinner including haggis, neeps (turnips), and tatties (potatoes)
Tasty Scottish treats such as handmade tablet, shortbread and malt whisky
Traditional Scottish entertainment with after-dinner céilidh dancing and a rousing chorus of Auld Lang Syne
Bagpipes, heather, thistles and tartan decorations in the bar

Enjoy dinner and a celebration of Burns' poetry at Vinopolis – and there'll be plenty of wine to go round as well! The night includes:

Three-course dinner (with haggis of course!)
Unlimited wine, beer and soft drinks
Whisky tasting with a whisky expert
Poetry recital
Four-piece céilidh

Not a fan of haggis? Head to Moti Mahal. The restaurant is offering a special whisky and Indian food pairing menu, so you can still be part of the Burns Night festivities.

Help yourself to the five-course Indian menu accompanied by five shots of Scottish whisky. Dishes include:

Roasted prawn with "gun powder"
Tandoori chicken fillet with crack pepper and dill
Dark chocolate mousse cake

Have fun and help a good cause this Burns Night at Fulham Town Hall, as charity Beating Bowel Cancer are holding a special fundraising event.

Have a luxurious Burns Night with a cigar and whisky tasting evening in penthouse of the Wyndham Grand. You'll receive tutored whisky tasting as you take in the stunning views across the Thames.

Ross apologises on TV show return

charlotte — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 17:28:00 GMT

Jonathan Ross has repeated his apology over the lewd calls row while filming on his first day back at the BBC following his three-month suspension.

He told the audience of his Friday Night with Jonathan Ross show he had "a great responsibility" as a presenter, according to audience members.

He would be "more aware" in the future, he added.

Ross was suspended after making a series of phone calls to actor Andrew Sachs on Russell Brand's Radio 2 show.

Guests on the TV presenter's BBC One show were Tom Cruise, Lee Evans, Stephen Fry and rock band Franz Ferdinand.

Canary Wharf Ice Rink

charlotte — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 17:14:00 GMT

22 November 2008 to 22 February 2009

This winter, you can skate alongside Canary Wharf's world-famous towers at Canada Square Park's annual ice rink.

Canada Square Park has been transformed for the occasion with sparkling lights and music and drinks to get you in the festive spirit.

If you need a helping hand on the ice, simply book yourself in a group skating lesson. There's also a special viewing gallery attached to the Rinkside Bar so non-skaters can watch their friends and family glide (or stumble!) around the ice rink.

Every year, the organisers of Canary Wharf ice rink run a school programme for children from the local borough of Tower Hamlets.

Canada Square Park

London

E14 5AX

0844 847 1556

Barack Obama to open new US era

charlotte — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 11:06:00 GMT

Millions of people are gathering in the US capital to see Barack Obama sworn in as America's 44th president - and its first African-American leader.

Huge crowds are expected to pack Washington's National Mall as Mr Obama takes the oath of office at exactly 1200 (1700 GMT).

Unprecedented security is in place, with 40,000 security personnel either on duty or stand-by in the city.

Across the US, there is a sense of history being made, correspondents say.

The roar of approval that will greet Barack Obama when he takes the oath of office will be genuine, heartfelt and will come from all corners of America, BBC North America editor Justin Webb says.

But the new president faces serious challenges. America is gripped by uncertainty as the economy faces its worst crisis in decades. Mr Obama must also handle wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the conflict in Gaza.

Kylie to present the Brit awards

charlotte — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 18:33:00 GMT

Singer Kylie Minogue will present the Brit Awards alongside Gavin and Stacey stars James Corden and Mathew Horne.

Kings of Leon, Duffy, Girls Aloud and the Pet Shop Boys are among the stars who will appear on the night.

U2 will also be performing at the awards, which will be held at London's Earls Court on 18 February.

Brits committee chairman Ged Doherty said the show was going to be a "must-see event". Nominations for the awards will be announced on Tuesday.

Outstanding contribution

Mr Doherty added: "We are heading towards a truly special Brits this year".

TV and radio presenter Fearne Cotton is hosting the nomination show at the Roundhouse in Camden, north London.

Among the acts tipped for success are Coldplay, who released their fourth studio album Viva la Vida or Death And All His Friends in 2008.

Oliver! opening hits right note

charlotte — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 09:30:00 GMT

The I'll Do Anything televised hunt for Oliver and Nancy has no doubt helped push tickets.

The show is already one of the fastest selling in West end history and is "heavily booked" until July.

This could be a bit of a blow for anyone who has not yet got a ticket, as Rowan Atkinson has only signed up to play Fagin for six months.

But it is his portrayal of the famous pick-pocket that will be talked about long after this production's final curtain call.

A lot has already been said about the comic timing which Atkinson brings to the role.

But then you would expect this from a man who has been making TV audiences laugh for nearly 30 years.

What is a revelation is that Atkinson can not only hold a tune but can make you feel sympathetic towards this scoundrel.

Atkinson may have got the night's biggest cheer when he first appeared on stage but it was closely followed by the welcome Jodie Prenger received.

Tropical Extravaganza

charlotte — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 17:37:00 GMT

7 February 2009 to 8 March 2009

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Kew

Richmond

TW9 3AB

Get a taste of the tropics at Kew Gardens' month-long celebration of orchids and exotic plants.

Kew boasts one of the oldest and most comprehensive orchid collections in the world.

The Princess of Wales Conservatory is home to hundreds of brightly coloured orchids.

A hot, steamy zone features tropical varieties with showy flowers, and a cooler zone contains species from tropical mountainous regions.

The Tropical Extravaganza sees hundreds more amazing orchids added throughout the conservatory.

The new orchid displays have been designed to look like ribbons around a birthday present, to celebrate Kew's 250th anniversary in 2009.

The Tropical Extravaganza is the first in a series of celebratory events planned for the year.

Ben Hur Live

charlotte — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 09:39:00 GMT

Fifty years after the celebrated film of Ben Hur, this production will premiere at the O2 arena in September 2009.

Fifteen years in the making by renowned producer Franz Abraham, Ben Hur Live will take live entertainment to a new dimension.

Be amazed by the legendary chariot race - in high speed, with five authentic quadriga chariots - and be awed by an incredible sea battle with galleys and extraordinary, daring stunts.

Ben Hur Live is a 360-degree experience on a 2,500 square metre stage, telling the love story of Judah and the beautiful slave girl Esther, set during the time of Christ.

It leads the audience on a fantastic journey, through deserts, on high seas, and into the hectic crowds of an Arabian bazaar - a truly dazzling kaleidoscope of human life and breathtaking action, in the world's biggest arena production.

Surprise winner for poetry prize

charlotte — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 09:24:00 GMT

Jen Hadfield has unexpectedly won the 2008 TS Eliot Prize for Poetry with her second anthology Nigh-No-Place.

The 30-year-old, who has lived in Scotland and Canada, was called "a remarkably original poet" by judges' chairman Andrew Motion, Poet Laureate.

Motion said Hadfield, who lives in Shetland, was "near the beginning of what is obviously going to be a distinguished career".

The Independent said her anthology, with its "smattering of Shetland dialect", has an ability "to blow some of the dust off British verse".

The TS Eliot Prize is organised by the Poetry Book Society, which was founded by Eliot in 1953.