Southbank Centre monthly listings July 2023

Welcome to the Southbank Centre

Drawing together vital voices for change and artistic responses to the climate emergency, Planet Summer is a multi-artform season, taking over our 11-acre site with performances, exhibitions, music, new artistic commissions and free programming.

A central pillar of the season is the Hayward Gallery’s pioneering group show Dear Earth: Art and Hope in a Time of Crisis. The exhibition is inspired by artist Otobong Nkanga’s idea that ‘caring is a form of resistance’, which captures the themes at the heart of Planet Summer: care, hope and action for the environment. We’re making some permanent changes to the Southbank Centre too, including planting a new, permanent ‘pocket forest’ below Waterloo Bridge that will sequester an estimated 405 kilos of carbon each year over the first 20 years. This is an invitation to evaluate our own relationship with and impact on the environment, and consider how we too can make change – now and into the future.

Mark Ball

Artistic Director

An update on our sustainability initiatives

This landmark season reflects the Southbank Centre’s commitment to environmental sustainability, one of our strategic priorities. We’re aiming to be a net-zero carbon organisation by 2040, and we’re working hard on the initiatives that will get us there.

We’re a zero-waste-to-landfill site. We’ve reduced food waste collections on-site by around 80%. We’ve achieved a 42% reduction in our carbon footprint – our target is to reduce it by 50% by 2025. And our bars and cafes have all made the switch from single-use plastics to compostable cups and cutlery, which are disposed of in our on-site composter. (Of course, the initiatives mentioned here make up just a small part of our sustainability journey.) Together, we can make a difference.

Elaine Bedell Chief Executive

Wednesday 21 June – Sunday 3 September

Planet Summer

Make connections with the natural world and find inspiration for change at our summer season of events. Bringing together responses to the climate emergency, Planet Summer is filled to the brim with inspirational speakers, impactful artworks and boundary-pushing performances, all contributing towards a powerful call to action.

Art is all around

The season is inspired by our groundbreaking Hayward Gallery exhibition, Dear Earth: Art and Hope in a Time of Crisis, but the gallery isn’t the only place that you can find climate-focused artworks this summer. Explore our site to see if you can spot free installations including a miniature forest and a wildlife-friendly garden, eye-catching banners and flags – and a six-metre panther (or two). You can also experience powerful perspectives on the climate emergency at Reframe: The Residency Exhibition, an immersive audiovisual exhibition of 80 emerging Black artists.

Eye-opening talks

Leading writers and activists join us to ask vital questions and open up new perspectives. In The Climate Conversation, speakers including Greta Thunberg, Tori Tsui and Vanessa Nakate take stock. Mikaela Loach, Dominique Palmer, Rebecca Solnit and Thelma Young Lutunatabua encourage us to embrace positive change, philosopher William MacAskill speaks for making a better future, and Mark Carney addresses the economics of climate action.

Poetry International

Our major biannual poetry festival joins the Planet Summer billing, with ecopoetry taking centre stage. The line-up includes CAConrad, John Kinsella, Jorie Graham, Olive Senior and Yang Lian with readings and workshops, and we

look to the next generation of climate activist poets at the Ginkgo Prize shortlist readings. Cerys Matthews takes us on a trip back to Dylan Thomas’ beloved Under Milk Wood, and we close Poetry International festival with a very special celebration: the National Poetry Library turns 70.

Performances and music

Theatrical innovators Ontroerend Goed ask whether environmental catastrophe is inevitable in the daring show Are we not drawn onward to new erA. Fusing choral singing, movement and body percussion, Earth Makes No Sound is inspired by the elements. And for all the family, The SpongeBob Musical makes a splash in its five-week run, following the citizens of Bikini Bottom protecting their home and saving the undersea world.

Join in for free

It wouldn’t be summer without free events on our Riverside Terrace, and this year’s no exception. Step on it for our parties with Electric Pedals, powered by green energy (created by you!). Plus, learn about queer ecology with Bi-Curious George and contribute to public art installation The Forum. Bring the family to Plot 17: A Hip-Hop Garden Block Party – and while you’re here, make time to visit our ever-popular playful summer fountain installation, which uses recycled water: Jeppe Hein’s Appearing Rooms

Together for climate hope: our season of care, optimism and activism takes its inspiration from our new Hayward Gallery exhibition

Also this month...

NAZAR: PRIDE

Celebrating the queer SWANA (Southwest Asian and North African) and South Asian diaspora, NAZAR fills our Riverside Terrace with a joyous Pride party of DJs and performance.

Saturday 1 July

Dear Earth: Art and Hope in a Time of Crisis

Our timely new Hayward Gallery exhibition explores how international contemporary artists are helping to reframe our responses to the climate crisis. Dear Earth: Art and Hope in a Time of Crisis hopes to inspire a renewed sense of connection with the natural world, and invite audiences to consider the unique and evolving role art has to play in today’s climate debate and activism.

The exhibition includes artworks by Ackroyd & Harvey, Andrea Bowers, Imani Jacqueline Brown, Agnes Denes, John Gerrard, Cristina Iglesias, Aluaiy Kaumakan, Jenny Kendler, Richard Mosse, Otobong Nkanga, Cornelia Parker, Himali Singh Soin, Hito Steyerl, Daiara Tukano and Grounded Ecotherapy.

Wednesday 21 June – Sunday 3 September

Poetry International

Our longest-running festival makes a triumphant return for its 53rd iteration, with a weekend crammed full of leading ecopoets, workshops and readings.

Friday 21 – Sunday 23 July

REPLAY: A Limitless Recycled Playground

Build your own worlds and invent your own games in a family-friendly play-space built entirely out of waste materials.

Saturday 8 July – Sunday 3 September

Are we not drawn onward to new erA

As part of our summer season, boundary-pushing theatre collective Ontroerend Goed presents a show that considers the future of humanity.

Saturday 8 & Sunday 9 July

Caitlin Moran: What About Men?

Introducing her new book, the journalist and author focuses her razor-sharp mind on the issues faced by men today.

Thursday 6 July

The SpongeBob Musical

Who lives in a pineapple under the sea and became the hottest star on Broadway? It's SpongeBob SquarePants, in an all-singing, alldancing, dynamic stage show!

Wednesday 26 July – Sunday 27 August

Literature & talks

We’re the home of literature and spoken word events in the UK; throughout our summer season, hear powerful perspectives on the climate crisis

Throughout the month

Poets in Vogue

Uncover the relationship between the language of poets and the clothes they wear at our free exhibition. For ages 16+.

Tue, 12 noon – 6pm; Wed – Sun, 12 noon –8pm (closed Mon); National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Free

Saturday 1

Meeting at the River: Ways of Knowing

Part of Planet Summer Selvagem, a Brazilian Indigenous-led collective, share ancestral, scientific, artistic and mythological knowledge. Speechto-Text transcribed (STT). For all ages.

2pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free

Wednesday 5

Special Edition: Tape Letters

Suna Afshan’s new poetry is based on intimate cassette tapes sent between families in Pakistan and the UK. For ages 16+.

8pm; National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; £7

Friday 7

Rebecca

Solnit,

Thelma Young

Lutunatabua & Guests

Part of Planet Summer

Appearing remotely, the pair present their new book, Not Too Late: Changing the Climate Story from Despair to Possibility

For ages 14+.

7pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15

Saturday 8

The Poetry Takeaway

Form a queue at our mobile poetry emporium, where our New Poets Collective dish out sizzling new work.

12 noon – 5pm; Queen's Walk; Free

Mikaela Loach:

It's Not That Radical

Part of Planet Summer

In her debut book, the climate justice activist opens up a fresh perspective for real climate action. For ages 14+.

1pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £10

Olivia Laing: The Art of Resistance

Monday 10

Mark Carney on Climate Action and Finance

Part of Planet Summer

Human values over market values: a lecture and discussion on the urgency of creating a greener future. Speech-to-Text transcribed (STT). For ages 16+.

7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15 – £25

Wednesday 12

Is Climate Activism

Working?

Part of Planet Summer

A panel of experts and activists debate the future direction of climate activism. Speech-to-Text transcribed (STT). For ages 16+.

7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15 – £25

Thursday 13

William MacAskill: What We Owe the Future

Part of Planet Summer

The philosopher speaks for making the future better for generations to come. For ages 16+.

7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £10

Out-Spoken: July

Part of Poetry International Stop by our monthly gathering of brilliant poets and musicians and kick off Poetry International British Sign Language interpreted (BSL). For ages 16+.

7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £12

Friday 21

Ginkgo Prize for Ecopoetry: Shortlist Readings

Part of Poetry International Admire the work of ecopoets shortlisted for the Ginkgo Prize and applaud the winners at this ceremony. British Sign Language interpreted (BSL). For ages 16+. 6pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £7.50 Also available as a live stream; £5

Poetry International Opening Night: Festival

Summit

Part of Poetry International What role can poetry play in addressing the climate crisis? Five leading ecopoets dive in. Speechto-Text transcribed (STT). For ages 16+.

Simon Sinek

& Steven Bartlett Live

Find motivation and look to a brighter future at an event with two inspirational speakers. British Sign Language interpreted (BSL). For ages 12+. Under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.

8pm; Royal Festival Hall; £35 – £65

Thursday 6

Kate Molleson:

Sound Within Sound

The author’s radical book fundamentally changes the way we think about classical music. For ages 16+.

7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15

Caitlin Moran:

What About Men?

Caitlin Moran is back on the road to discuss her new book – and this time, it’s all about the men.

Speech-to-Text transcribed (STT) and British Sign Language interpreted (BSL). For ages 16+.

8pm; Royal Festival Hall; £20 – £37

Part of Planet Summer

How can art be used to both engender and document acts of resistance? For ages 16+.

4pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £10

Sunday 9

Writers Rebel:

Responding to the Climate Crisis

Part of Planet Summer

A group of writers use the power of words to claim a fairer and safer future for all life on earth. For ages 16+.

1pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £10

Dominique

Palmer:

Climate Joy and Optimism

Part of Planet Summer

The climate justice activist invites you to find hope for the future through the beauty of the natural world. For ages 14+.

4pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £10

Friday 14

Rug Rhymes at the NPL

Share songs and poems with your little ones in a short session of nursery rhymes for under-5s. 11am; National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; £4 (admits one adult and one child)

Sunday 16

Tori Tsui:

It's Not Just You

Part of Planet Summer

The climate activist and mental health advocate discusses her new book with actor Jessie Mei Li. Speech-to-Text transcribed (STT). For ages 12+.

7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15

Thursday 20

Yomi Adegoke & Bernardine Evaristo: The List

The Slay In Your Lane co-author launches her sensational debut novel in conversation with Bernardine Evaristo. Speech-toText Transcribed (STT).

For ages 16+.

7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15 – £26.99

7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15

Linguaparty

Part of Poetry International Language is the life of the party as we’re treated to a soundscape featuring Cedar Lewisohn’s poetry. For ages 18+ only.

9pm; National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; £7

Booking fees apply online (£3.50) and over the phone (£4). There are no booking fees for in-person bookings, Southbank Centre Members, Supporters Circles and Patrons. Planet Summer talks multi-buy: with our multi-buy offer, you can book for two or more Planet Summer talks in the same transaction to receive a discount of 20% or more. Discounts apply to selected events. Check individual event pages on our website for details.

Saturday 22

The Ecology of Eclogues Workshop with John Kinsella

Part of Poetry International

Discover the ancient form of the eclogue in a poetry workshop led by John Kinsella. For ages 18+.

10am; National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; £20

Poetry Workshop: Nature as Active Participant

Part of Poetry International

Describe the connections between living things in Jinhao Xie’s online workshop for writers of all levels For ages 18+.

11am; Online events; £5

Dear Earth Poetry Workshop with Belinda Zhawi

Part of Poetry International

Craft poems inspired by our exhibition Dear Earth in this creative workshop. For ages 18+ only.

11am; Hayward Gallery Foyer; £25 (includes exhibition entry)

A Green Art: Irish Poetry, Words, Film and Music

Part of Poetry International

Roam across the poetic landscape of the Emerald Isle in this celebration, with readings and a film screening. For ages 16+.

12 noon; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £12

Cerys Matthews: Under Milk Wood

Part of Poetry International

Revisit the beloved fictional world of Dylan Thomas in an afternoon of storytelling and music. For ages 8+.

2pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15 (adult) £10 (child)

Dear Earth Poetry Workshop with Olive Senior

Part of Poetry International

The Poet Laureate of Jamaica leads you through writing exercises responding to our climate-focused exhibition. For ages 18+ only.

3pm; Hayward Gallery Foyer; £25 (includes exhibition entry)

Tongue Fu: Hot Poets International

Part of Poetry International Poetry, science and improvised music combine to shine a light on the work being done to save our planet. For ages 16+.

6pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £12

Gwenno

Part of Poetry International

The sound artist and DJ presents her acclaimed album, sung entirely in Cornish, and its accompanying film. For ages 16+.

7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15 – £25

Repeat Patterns: Poetry and Fashion

Part of Poetry International

Poets Amy Key and Jane Yeh join curators of our Poets in Vogue exhibition Sophie Oliver and Sarah Parker to discuss all things fashion and poetry. For ages 16+.

8pm; National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; £7

Sunday

23

(Soma)tic Poetry

Rituals Workshop with CAConrad

Part of Poetry International

Explore the creative viability in nature in this poetry workshop led by CAConrad. For ages 18+.

10am; National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; £20

Can Poets Speak to Trees?

Part of Poetry International

Three poets contend with the intersection of nature and writing in this panel discussion. For ages 16+.

12 noon; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; £10

Out-Spoken

Masterclass: July

This month’s writing workshop, led by Amy Key, explores creative nonfiction and the lyric essay. For ages 18+.

1pm; Sunley Pavilion, Level 3, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; £20

My Art, My Activism

Part of Poetry International Activist poets lift the lid on their processes as writers and committed campaigners. For ages 16+.

3pm; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; £10

A Celebration of Art by Post: Poems for Our Planet

Part of Poetry International

An afternoon of poetry, film and talks reflects on our initiative that supports wellbeing through creativity.

3pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free

Poetry Unbound Live

Part of Poetry International

Delve into an immersive exploration of a single poem. Unhurried, contemplative and energising. For all ages.

5pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free

NPL at 70: International Celebration

Part of Poetry International

The National Poetry Library is 70; mark the milestone with us and an incredible line-up of poets to close this year’s Poetry International festival. British Sign Language interpreted (BSL). For ages 16+.

7pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15

Saturday 29

Caring Is a Form of Resistance

Part of Planet Summer

Artist Otobong Nkanga and author Irenosen Okojie discuss themes of extraction, care and repair.

7pm; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; £7.50

Sunday

30

The Climate Conversation

Part of Planet Summer

Climate leaders including Greta Thunberg and Tori Tsui come together for a roundtable discussion. British Sign Language interpreted (BSL). For ages 12+. 8pm; Royal Festival Hall; £15 – £35

Family

Our events are not just for the grown-ups – bring the little ones along for a splash in our fountain, eco-themed workshops and undersea musical adventures

Throughout the month

Jeppe Hein

Appearing Rooms

Part of Planet Summer

A summer favourite returns. By shooting jets of water into the air, the fountain creates rooms that disappear as quickly as they emerge.

Wed – Sun, 10am – 9pm (subject to weather conditions and maintenance), closed Mon & Tues; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Wednesday 5 & 12

Southbank Centre

Youth Voices

Aged 10 – 18 and curious about singing? Join our group to discover the joy of singing together. 5pm; Various venues; Free (email emergingartists@southbankcentre.co.uk to sign up)

From Saturday 8

REPLAY: A Limitless Recycled Playground

Part of Planet Summer

Part installation, part adventure playground, REPLAY is a space built entirely out of waste materials, repurposed for fun. This is a Relaxed event. Sensory Adapted and Early Years sessions are available. For ages 0 – 11.

Until Sun 3 Sep; Various times; Exhibition Space, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; £6.50

Sunday 9

Plot 17: A Hip-Hop Garden Block Party

Part of Planet Summer

Get greenspiration at this mobile block party performance guaranteed to make you feel like planting a tree. For ages 5+.

1pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Tuesday 11

Primary Schools

Takeover: Dear Earth

Part of Schools

Primary schools are invited to our Hayward Gallery exhibition to take part in a day of peer-led activities.

10.30am – 2.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free, but ticketed

Friday 14

Rug Rhymes at the NPL

Share songs and poems with your little ones in a short session of nursery rhymes for under-5s.

11am; National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; £4 (admits one adult and one child)

Saturday 15

Tide: Come and Sing

Part of Planet Summer

Sing and move in Filament’s workshop and roving performance, inspired by their piece Earth Makes No Sound. For all ages.

11am; Central Bar, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free

Saturday 22

Cerys Matthews: Under Milk Wood

Part of Poetry International

Revisit the beloved fictional world of Dylan Thomas in an afternoon of storytelling and music. For ages 8+.

2pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £15 (adult) £10 (child)

Tuesday 25

Dear Earth Celebration

Event with Grounded

Ecotherapy

Part of Planet Summer

Join our resident gardeners and horticultural therapy group for a creative, solstice-inspired celebration of their commission in the Hayward Gallery exhibition.

12 noon – 4pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Roof Garden; Free (email artsandwellbeing@ southbankcentre.co.uk to sign up)

From Wednesday 26

The SpongeBob Musical

Part of Planet Summer

Plunge into the world of SpongeBob SquarePants at this stunning all-singing, all-dancing, dynamic stage show! For ages 6+.

Until Sun 27 Aug; 2pm, 3pm & 7pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £22.50 – £99

Saturday 29 & Sunday 30

The Forum

Part of Planet Summer

Hear the voices of young people and contribute your own at this inspiring public art installation. For ages 5+.

1pm – 6pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Booking fees apply online (£3.50) and over the phone (£4). There are no booking fees for in-person bookings, Southbank Centre Members, Supporters Circles and Patrons. Planet Summer talks multi-buy: with our multi-buy offer, you can book for two or more Planet Summer talks in the same transaction to receive a discount of 20% or more. Discounts apply to selected events. Check individual event pages on our website for details.

Throughout the month Dear Earth: Art and Hope in a Time of Crisis

Part of Planet Summer

This pioneering group show explores artistic responses to the climate emergency.

Until Sun 3 Sep; Wed – Fri, 10am – 6pm; Sat, 10am – 8pm; Sun, 10am – 6pm (closed Mon & Tue); Hayward Gallery; Hayward Gallery supporter* £16.50 Wed – Fri, £17.60 Sat & Sun; standard £15 Wed – Fri, £16 Sat & Sun

Fefe Talavera: El Camino

Part of Planet Summer

Two six-metre panther artworks overlook our site, calling attention to the majestic beauty and plight of these animals.

Daily; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Union Jill

Part of Planet Summer

This take on the Union Jack often appeared at environment-related protests in the 1990s.

Daily; Royal Festival Hall Roof; Free

Art & exhibitions

Ed Hall: Hazelnuts do not grow on a dead planet

Part of Planet Summer

Three striking climate-themed works by artist and banner-maker Ed Hall adorn our buildings.

Daily; Royal Festival Hall Wall, Queen Elizabeth Hall Side; Free

kennardphillipps: Christina's World

Part of Planet Summer

One of our outdoor artworks is a haunting take on Andrew Wyeth's American landscape painting.

Daily; Billboard Space, Queen Elizabeth Hall; Free

Lucy McLauchlan: Raising the Flag

Part of Planet Summer

Flags around the Royal Festival Hall mark the rising water levels of the Thames in a call to action.

Daily; Queen's Walk; Free

Denman+Gould with Maeve Polkinhorn: Haven

Part of Planet Summer

An artist-created pocket garden transforms an urban space into a sanctuary for wildlife.

Daily; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free Ackroyd & Harvey: Art by Post – Poems for Our Planet

Part of Planet Summer

This living, growing artwork platforms the voices of people from all over the country through their poetry. Plus, follow a trail of poetry by participants.

Daily; Riverside Entrance Foyer; Free

Dan Jones: The Conversation

Part of Planet Summer

Imagine an urban space given back to nature with this threedimensional sound piece.

Daily; Queen’s Walk; Free

Occupied Archives: Recording Road Protest

Part of Planet Summer

Our archive display unearths artefacts from the anti-road protests of the early 1990s.

Mon & Tue, 10am – 6pm; Wed – Sun, 10am –11pm; Archive Studio, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free

From internationally acclaimed artists at the Hayward Gallery to free displays and outdoor installations, art and exhibitions can be found all around our site

Poets in Vogue

Uncover the relationship between the language of poets and the clothes they wear at our free exhibition. For ages 16+.

Tue, 12 noon – 6pm; Wed – Sun, 12 noon –8pm (closed Mon); National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Free

Jeppe Hein

Appearing Rooms

Part of Planet Summer

A summer favourite returns. By shooting jets of water into the air, the fountain creates rooms that disappear as quickly as they emerge.

Wed – Sun, 10am – 9pm (subject to weather conditions and maintenance), closed Mon & Tues; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Until Thursday 6

Murugiah: Compassion

Part of Refugee Week

A bold and joyful new commission celebrates this year's Refugee Week theme, Compassion.

Daily; Riverside Entrance Foyer, Level 1; Free

From Friday 7

The Artists Food Stall

Part of Planet Summer

Grab a treat and the chance to have conversations around food, art and sustainability at artisthosted stalls at our weekend food market.

Open Fri – Sun, check website for times; Southbank Centre Food Market, Southbank Centre Square, Belvedere Road; Free

Tuesday 11

Primary Schools

Takeover: Dear Earth

Part of Schools

Primary schools are invited to our current Hayward Gallery exhibition to take part in a day of peer-led activities.

10.30am – 2.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free, but ticketed

Thursday 13

Relaxed Hours: Dear Earth

Part of Planet Summer

A time to visit our Hayward Gallery exhibition for anyone requiring a calmer, more relaxed environment.

11am; Hayward Gallery; Hayward Gallery supporter £16.50*; standard £15

From Wednesday 19

Reframe: The Residency Exhibition

Experience the powerful responses of 80 emerging Black artists to climate change in an immersive exhibition.

10am – 6pm, Wed – Sun; Sat until 8pm; Undercroft Learning Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hall; Free, but ticketed

Saturday 22

Dear Earth Poetry Workshop with Belinda Zhawi

Part of Poetry International

Craft poems inspired by our exhibition Dear Earth in this creative workshop. For ages 18+ only.

11am; Hayward Gallery Foyer; £25 (includes exhibition entry)

Dear Earth Poetry Workshop with Olive Senior

Part of Poetry International

The Poet Laureate of Jamaica leads you through writing exercises responding to our climate-focused exhibition. For ages 18+ only.

3pm; Hayward Gallery Foyer; £25 (includes exhibition entry)

British Sign Language

Tours: Dear Earth

Part of Planet Summer

Artist Rubbena Aurangzeb-Tariq leads a BSL tour about the artists, ideas and techniques in our Hayward Gallery exhibition.

6.30pm; Hayward Gallery; £6 (includes tour and entry to exhibition)

Saturday 29

Caring Is a Form of

Resistance

Part of Planet Summer

Artist Otobong Nkanga and author Irenosen Okojie discuss themes of extraction, care and repair.

7pm; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; £7.50

Sunday 30

Cornelia Parker & Mariana Mazzucato

Part of Planet Summer

The artist and the economist discuss the intrinsic links between the economy and climate change.

7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; £7.50

Booking fees apply online (£3.50) and over the phone (£4). There are no booking fees for in-person bookings, Southbank Centre Members, Supporters Circles and Patrons.

* Supporter tickets include a voluntary donation of at least 10% of the standard admission charge, to support the Southbank Centre’s work. If you buy a supporter ticket and make a Gift Aid declaration, we can claim the tax paid on the full ticket price, not just the donation.

Presale tickets

Eye-popping art See

Knockout views

Take

Performance & comedy

Classic stand-up, boundary-pushing theatre and dynamic shows: discover international artists and up-and-coming names here in our venues

Saturday 1 & Sunday 2

Stewart Lee: Basic Lee

Pure. Simple. Classic. Basic Lee.

For ages 14+.

Sat 1, 8pm; Sun 2, 3pm & 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; £25 – £35

Saturday 8

Bi-Curious George

Presents Queer Planet

Part of Planet Summer

A raucous romp through the animal kingdom – the wildest, queerest kingdom of them all. For all ages.

5pm – 10.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Saturday 8 & Sunday 9

Are we not drawn onward to new erA

Part of Planet Summer

A show presented by boundarypushing theatre collective Ontroerend Goed questions the future of humanity. For ages 16+.

Sat 8 Jul, 3pm & 7.30pm; Sun 9 Jul, 5pm;

Queen Elizabeth Hall; £18 – £24

Saturday 15

Tide: Come and Sing

Part of Planet Summer Sing and move in Filament’s workshop and roving performance, inspired by their piece Earth Makes No Sound. For all ages. 11am; Central Bar, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free

Earth Makes No Sound

Part of Planet Summer

Experience a fusion of choral singing, movement and body percussion in this eco-focused piece. For ages 7+.

5.30pm & 8pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £8 – £12

From Wednesday 26

The SpongeBob Musical

Part of Planet Summer

Plunge into the world of SpongeBob SquarePants at this stunning all-singing, all-dancing, dynamic stage show! For ages 6+.

Until Sun 27 Aug; 2pm, 3pm & 7pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £22.50 – £99

Saturday 1

NAZAR: PRIDE

Slide into a joyous Pride party of DJs and performance, taking up space till late on our Riverside Terrace.

From 4pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Sunday 2

Raga Jyoti Presents

Guru Vandana

Delight in a panoply of traditional Indian music and dance that gives thanks to spiritual gurus. For ages 7+.

7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £20 – £30

Friday 7

Pedal Power x BORN N BREAD

Part of Planet Summer

Power BORN N BREAD’s DJ sets. If the pedalling stops, so does the music! A hand-powered wheel is also available.

6pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Music

Thursday 13

London Philharmonic Orchestra: Debut Sounds – Where to Begin?

Hear five world premieres from the London Philharmonic Orchestra Young Composers. For ages 7+.

Players from the LPO LPO Foyle Future Firsts

Brett Dean conductor

Mussorgsky Excerpts from Pictures at an Exhibition; Jakob Bragg Through gates unseen (World premiere); Philip Dutton Etched (World premiere); Zakiya Leeming Eagle in the ropes (World premiere); Matt London there must be more nature (World premiere); Tayla-Leigh Payne Picture this ... (World premiere)

7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; £5

Friday 14

Pedal Power x Guava

Jamz

Part of Planet Summer Cycle as fast as you can to dance as much as you can! A handpowered wheel is also available. 6pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Saturday 15 & Sunday 16

Regina Spektor

The storytelling singer-songwriter returns to London for the first time in six years. For ages 14+.

7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; £35 – £55

Wednesday 19

London Sinfonietta: Musicians of Tomorrow

Fresh from an inspiring tuition course, this season’s best young musicians showcase their talents.

London Sinfonietta

London Sinfonietta Academy

Ensemble

Geoffrey Paterson conductor

Mark-Anthony Turnage Dark Crossing; Diana Burrell Bronze; Boulez Initiale for 7 brass instruments; Birtwistle The World is Discovered; Samantha Fernando New work (World premiere); Kai Kubota-Enright New work (World premiere); Gerber Work to be announced.

7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; £10

Thursday 20

futuretense:

GBNGA + Lemzi

Part of futuretense

Take in mellow UK rap from two London artists in the next of our free gig series.

5.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free

Friday 28

Pedal Power x Heart n Soul

Part of Planet Summer

Bring your best moves and a heap of energy to our Riverside Terrace for this pedal-powered party. A hand-powered wheel is also available.

6pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Open your ears to thrilling new sounds from across the globe at our gigs and classical music events, featuring free outdoor performances, international stars and the artists of tomorrow

Booking fees apply online (£3.50) and over the phone (£4). There are no booking fees for in-person bookings, Southbank Centre Members, Supporters Circles and Patrons.

Free events

There's lots to see and do for free at the Southbank Centre, including an outdoor art trail, pedal-powered parties and brand new poetry

Throughout the month

Union Jill

Part of Planet Summer

This take on the Union Jack often appeared at environment-related protests in the 1990s.

Daily; Royal Festival Hall Roof; Free

Fefe Talavera: El Camino

Part of Planet Summer

Two six-metre panther artworks overlook our site, calling attention to the majestic beauty and plight of these animals.

Daily; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Ed Hall: Hazelnuts do not grow on a dead planet

Part of Planet Summer

Three striking climate-themed works by artist and banner-maker Ed Hall adorn our buildings.

Daily; Royal Festival Hall Wall, Queen Elizabeth Hall Side; Free

kennardphillipps: Christina's World

Part of Planet Summer

One of our outdoor artworks is a haunting take on Andrew Wyeth's American landscape painting.

Daily; Billboard Space, Queen Elizabeth Hall; Free

Lucy McLauchlan: Raising the Flag

Part of Planet Summer

Flags around the Royal Festival Hall mark the rising water levels of the Thames in a call to action.

Daily; Queen's Walk; Free Denman+Gould with Maeve Polkinhorn: Haven

Part of Planet Summer

An artist-created pocket garden transforms an urban space into a wildflower-rich sanctuary for wildlife.

Daily; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Ackroyd & Harvey: Art by Post – Poems for Our Planet

Part of Planet Summer

This living, growing artwork platforms the voices of people from all over the country through their poetry. Plus, follow a trail of poetry by participants.

Daily; Riverside Entrance Foyer; Free

Dan Jones: The Conversation

Part of Planet Summer

Imagine an urban space given back to nature with this threedimensional sound piece.

Daily; Queen’s Walk; Free

Occupied Archives: Recording Road Protest

Part of Planet Summer

Our archive display unearths artefacts from the anti-road protest movement of the early 1990s.

Mon & Tue, 10am – 6pm; Wed – Sun, 10am –11pm; Archive Studio, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free

Poets in Vogue

Uncover the relationship between the language of poets and the clothes they wear at our free exhibition. For ages 16+.

Tue, 12 noon – 6pm; Wed – Sun, 12 noon –8pm (closed Mon); National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Free

Jeppe Hein

Appearing Rooms

Part of Planet Summer

A summer favourite returns. By shooting jets of water into the air, the fountain creates rooms that disappear as quickly as they emerge.

Wed – Sun, 10am – 9pm (subject to weather conditions and maintenance), closed Mon & Tues; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Saturday 1

Meeting at the River: Ways of Knowing

Part of Planet Summer

Selvagem, a Brazilian Indigenous-led collective, share ancestral, scientific, artistic and mythological knowledge. Speechto-Text transcribed (STT).

For all ages.

2pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free

NAZAR: PRIDE

Slide into a joyous Pride party of DJs and performance, taking up space till late on our Riverside Terrace.

From 4pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Wednesday 5 & 12

Southbank Centre

Youth Voices

Aged 10 – 18 and curious about singing? Join our group to discover the joy of singing together.

5pm; Various venues; Free (email emergingartists@southbankcentre.co.uk to sign up)

Until Thursday 6

Murugiah: Compassion

Part of Refugee Week

A bold and joyful new commission celebrates this year's Refugee Week theme, Compassion.

Daily; Riverside Entrance Foyer, Level 1; Free

From Friday 7

The Artists Food Stall

Part of Planet Summer

Grab a treat and the chance to have conversations around food, art and sustainability at artisthosted stalls at our weekend food market.

Open Fri – Sun, check website for times; Southbank Centre Food Market, Southbank Centre Square, Belvedere Road; Free

Friday 7

Pedal Power x

BORN N BREAD

Part of Planet Summer

Put the pedal to the metal and power BORN N BREAD’s DJ sets. If the pedalling stops, so does the music! A hand-powered wheel is also available.

6pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Saturday 8

The Poetry Takeaway

Form a queue at our mobile poetry emporium, where our New Poets Collective dish out sizzling new work.

12 noon; Queen's Walk; Free

Bi-Curious George Presents Queer Planet

Part of Planet Summer

A raucous romp through the animal kingdom – the wildest, queerest kingdom of them all. For all ages.

5pm – 10.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Sunday 9

Plot 17: A Hip-Hop

Garden Block Party

Part of Planet Summer Get greenspiration at this mobile block party performance guaranteed to make you feel like planting a tree. For ages 5+.

1pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Tuesday 11

Primary Schools

Takeover: Dear Earth

Part of Schools

Primary schools are invited to our current Hayward Gallery exhibition to take part in a day of peer-led activities.

10.30am – 2.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free, but ticketed

Friday 14

Pedal Power

x Guava Jamz

Part of Planet Summer Cycle as fast as you can to dance as much as you can – Guava Jamz’ tunes need power! A handpowered wheel is also available.

6pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Saturday 15

Tide: Come and Sing

Part of Planet Summer Sing and move in Filament’s workshop and roving performance, inspired by their piece Earth Makes No Sound. For all ages.

11am; Central Bar, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free

From Wednesday 19

Reframe: The Residency Exhibition

Experience the powerful responses of 80 emerging Black artists to climate change in an immersive exhibition.

10am – 6pm, Wed – Sun; Sat until 8pm; Undercroft Learning Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hall; Free, but ticketed

Thursday 20

futuretense:

GBNGA + Lemzi

Part of futuretense

Take in mellow UK rap from two London artists in the next of our free gig series.

5.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free

Sunday 23

A Celebration of Art by Post: Poems for Our Planet

Part of Poetry International

An afternoon of poetry, film and talks reflects on our initiative that supports wellbeing through creativity.

3pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free

Poetry Unbound Live

Part of Poetry International

Delve into an immersive exploration of a single poem. Unhurried, contemplative and energising. For all ages.

5pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free

Tuesday 25

Dear Earth Celebration

Event with Grounded Ecotherapy

Part of Planet Summer

Join our resident gardeners and horticultural therapy group for a creative, solstice-inspired celebration of their commission in the Hayward Gallery exhibition.

12 noon – 4pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Roof Garden; Free (email artsandwellbeing@ southbankcentre.co.uk to sign up)

Friday 28

Pedal Power x Heart n Soul

Part of Planet Summer

Bring your best moves and a heap of energy to our Riverside Terrace for this pedal-powered party. A hand-powered wheel is also available.

6pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Saturday 29 & Sunday 30

The Forum

Part of Planet Summer

Hear the voices of young people and contribute your own at this inspiring public art installation. For ages 5+.

1pm – 6pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Meet the Archives: Environmental Action

Part of Planet Summer

Feel the power of history to spark change for the future at an inspiring showcase of collections from around the UK.

2pm – 5pm; Archive Studio, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free

Upcoming highlights

Honey Dijon Presents Honeyverse

The pioneering DJ's two-weekend takeover incorporates club nights, live sets, orchestras and conversation, all drawing inspiration from her roots in the Black Queer community. Honey Dijon’s line-up features the finest DJ talent – those acts who are taking the international music scene by storm and pushing the decks to new limits.

Red Rope

Float through an underwater paradise of dynamic projections for a profound reminder of the beauty and fragility of our oceans at a free installation of a project conceived by IMPACT Theatre.

Saturday 12 & Sunday 13 August

Two club nights include sets from pioneering DJs Aqwea, Gayance, Kampire and Red Pig Flower. Kicking us off is the world premiere of The Honey Dijon Experience, with Honey Dijon performing alongside the Radiant Baby Orchestra.

Saturday 9 & Saturday 16 September

Also coming soon

Colson Whitehead: Crook Manifesto

Been waiting patiently for the follow-up to Colson Whitehead’s gripping 2021 novel Harlem Shuffle? Hear all about it from the author himself.

Thursday 17 August

MELTWATER

Crashing ice and rain, evocative Indian vocals and instrumentation, and footage of melting glaciers come together in a thoughtprovoking performance.

Wednesday 23 August

Bird Rave

Create your own plumage headpiece, learn some rave moves and go bird-spotting around the Southbank Centre in this interactive performance.

Sunday 6 August

Livia Rita: Dystopian Wetlands

The emerging avant-pop artist and alpine witch is joined by creatural dancers and a band for two intimate live shows.

Saturday 19 & Sunday 20 August

Classical Music: Autumn/Winter 2023/24

Start planning ahead for a whole new programme of powerful human experiences, as classical music returns after the summer break.

September 2023 – January 2024

Photographed by Juergen Teller

Eat & explore

The Hayward Gallery Cafe

If you’re looking to refuel while visiting one of our exhibitions, take a moment at the Hayward Gallery Cafe, a light-filled tranquil space above the foyer of the gallery itself. On the walls of the cafe, there’s an injection of vibrancy from Michael Lin’s specially commissioned plum blossom wallpaper, a reference to traditional Taiwanese, Chinese and Japanese textile designs, layered in hues of pink, red and yellow. But the gorgeous wallpaper isn’t the only view worth admiring. Facing out to Waterloo Bridge and the river is the glass-fronted Waterloo Sunset Pavilion, created by Dan Graham and Haworth Tompkins in 2003 to open up the brutalist space.

South Bank Book Market

You find some brilliant things when you stroll along the Thames – the Southbank Centre, for one. But there’s also the chance to find your next read.

The South Bank Book Market is the largest openair second-hand book outlet in the country, with booksellers offering well-known gems and vintage rarities across a range of styles and specialities.

Started in 1983 as the brainchild of former British Film Institute controller Leslie Hardcastle, the market became affiliated with the Southbank Centre in 2001. This year is its 40th anniversary, and it’s still an

Relax on the outdoor terrace with a wine, beer or one of the signature cocktails for as long as you can, or choose from coffee, sandwiches, salads and an array of homemade cakes. The menu is now 100% vegan and vegetarian, and the cafe has a renewed focus on locally and ethically sourced products. And remember, you don’t need to see an exhibition to be up here – but we recommend you grab the opportunity.

Open Wednesday – Friday, 10am – 6pm; Saturday, 10am – 8pm; Sunday, 10am – 6pm. The cafe stops serving 30 mins before closing.

integral part of the area’s bustling atmosphere – one we hope will last long into the future.

So the next time you’re on the hunt for a book or two, head down to the river, dip under Waterloo Bridge, scour the long tables, and help support this quirky fixture of our riverside home.

Open Monday – Saturday, 10am – 7pm & Sunday, 11am – 7pm

Waterloo Bridge

About us

London Eye

Royal Festival Hall BelvedereRd YorkRd

Hayward Gallery

Getting here

By train

The nearest stations are: Waterloo Waterloo East

Charing Cross Blackfriars

By tube

Waterloo (200 metres)

Embankment (600 metres)

By bus

Routes 1, 26, 59, 68, 76, 139, 168, 172, 176, 188, 243, 341, 521, N1, N68, N171, N343 and X68 stop on Waterloo Bridge (a two-minute walk away)

Routes 76, 77, 211, 381, 507 and N381 stop on York Road (a five-minute walk away)

IMAX

London Waterloo East

How to book tickets

Online

southbankcentre.co.uk*

Waterloo

We’re the largest arts centre in the UK and one of the nation's top visitor attractions, showcasing the world’s most exciting artists at our venues in the heart of London. We’re here to present great cultural experiences that bring people together, and open up the arts to everyone.

The Southbank Centre is made up of the Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall, Purcell Room, Hayward Gallery, National Poetry Library and Arts Council Collection. We're also one of London’s favourite meeting spots, with lots of free events and places to relax, eat and shop next to the Thames.

Waterloo Station

We hope that you enjoy your visit – and if you need any information or help, please ask a member of staff.

While you're here

Eating, drinking and shopping? Take in the views over food and drinks at the Riverside Terrace Cafe, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall, and visit our shops for products inspired by our great cultural experiences, iconic buildings and central London location. And around our site you can find more to explore, with Beany Green, Côte Brasserie, Foyles, Giraffe, Honest Burger, La Gamba, Las Iguanas, Le Pain Quotidien, Ping Pong, Pret, Strada, Skylon, Topolski, wagamama and Wahaca.

Southbank Centre Food Market

With a huge choice of street food and drinks from around the globe, the Southbank Centre Food Market is a must-visit.

Fri, 12 noon – 9pm; Sat, 11am – 9pm; Sun & bank holiday Mon, 12 noon – 6pm; Southbank Centre Square, Belvedere Road

Access

The Southbank Centre is accessible to all and level access is available to all of our venues. For further information and details of accessible events, see our website. southbankcentre.co.uk/access

An audio version of this publication is available online. soundcloud.com/southbankcentreaudio

Membership

Become a Member and get the first chance to book for go-downin-history gigs, sublime symphonies and blockbuster literature events. Members also get a discount on selected retailers and restaurants; check our website for more details. southbankcentre.co.uk/membership

Supporters Circles

Enjoy all the benefits of Membership as well as getting closer to the artists with invitations to rehearsals, openings and more. southbankcentre.co.uk/join

Name a seat

Starting from £100, dedicate a seat in one of our concert halls to your favourite person. southbankcentre.co.uk/nameaseat

Listings correct at time of going to press (2023).

The Southbank Centre is a registered charity no. 298909

By phone

020 3879 9555*

For information about concessions, see southbankcentre.co.uk

*Booking fees apply online (£3.50) and over the phone (£4). There are no booking fees for in-person bookings, Southbank Centre Members, Supporters Circles and Patrons. Booking fees for Hayward Gallery exhibition tickets: £3 online, £3.50 over the phone.

Stay in the know

Sign up to our email updates and be the first to hear about new events, offers and competitions. Just head to our website and hit subscribe.

On the cover

Tori Tsui © Matthew Jarvis

Image credits

Inside cover: Planet Summer

This month's highlights: Richard Mosse, Oil Spill on Kichwa Territory III Block 192, Rio Tigre, Loreto, 2023. Digital C print © Richard Mosse, 2023. Courtesy of the artist, Jack Shainman Gallery and carlier gebauer. NAZAR: PRIDE © Paula Harrowing; Poetry International: CAConrad; REPLAY © John Philip Sage; Are we not drawn onward to new erA © Mirjam Devriendt; Caitlin Moran © Alex Lake; The SpongeBob Musical © Mark Senior

Header images: Literature & talks: Dominique Palmer © courtesy of artist; Family: Plot 17: A Hip-Hop Garden Block Party © Mickey Lee; Art & exhibitions: Jenny Kendler, Birds Watching, 2018. Reflective film mounted on aluminum on steel frame. © Jenny Kendler, 2023; Performance & comedy: Bi-Curious George; Music: BORN N BREAD; Free events: Jeppe Hein's Appearing Rooms © Victor Frankowski

Upcoming highlights: Honey Dijon © Photographed by Juergen Teller; Red Rope © IMPACT Theatre; Colson Whitehead © Michael Lionstar; MELTWATER; Bird Rave © TRACY KIDD PHOTOGRAPHY; Livia Rita © courtesy of Livia Rita Eat & explore: The Hayward Gallery Cafe © Installation view of Michael Lin, macule, 2023. Photo: Rob Harris. Courtesy of the artist and Hayward Gallery. South Bank Book Market © Victor Frankowski

or phone 020 3879 9555

Queen Elizabeth Hall & Purcell Room