MAY
Welcome to the Southbank Centre
Dive into classical music at events as varied as the art form itself, from towering Beethoven symphonies with Aurora Orchestra and London Philharmonic Orchestra to Manchester Collective’s transcendent audio-visual concert Rothko Chapel. And don’t miss a day-long exploration of Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and conductor Kirill Karabits’ project Voices from the East, shining a light on forgotten orchestral masterpieces.
We present performance works from boundary-pushing voices that demand to be heard. Dragon Ladies Don’t Weep is a sonic self-portrait by avant-garde musician Margaret Leng Tan; in Haribo Kimchi theatre maker and composer Jaha Koo delves into the history of South Korea through food; and theatre company Brokentalkers and artist Adrienne Truscott take a razor-sharp look at the notion of the ‘great male artist’ in Masterclass
Our literature season, too, brims with global voices and new perspectives, including the very best in translated fiction at the International Booker Prize shortlist readings.
Join us to discover extraordinary works that enrich our lives and expand our understanding of the world around us.
Mark Ball
Artistic Director, Southbank Centre
From page to stage
Our spring literature season is bursting with fantastic fiction, stories that matter and inspirational ideas from leading lights
Lovers of literature, big thinkers and poetry penners – you’re in the right place. The Southbank Centre is a real page-turner when it comes to literature events, with talks from lauded authors, cultural critics and up-andcoming names all year round.
Join us in May for events that reflect on the world around us and invite us to open new chapters of curiosity – there’s plenty of food for thought between these pages.
The finest fiction
It’s the 20th anniversary of David Mitchell’s colossal novel Cloud Atlas, and he’s celebrating the occasion with us in a London-exclusive event. The bestseller crosses time and continents, merging six lives into one tale, and asks vital questions about the nature of power.
Sara Pascoe joins us for stand-up comedy and readings marking the paperback launch of her debut, Weirdo: a funny, touching read that shakes up societal expectations; while Hari Kunzru shares his new novel, Blue Ruin, an enthralling critique of the art world.
And the International Booker Prize Shortlist Readings returns – an annual celebration of the best new novels and short story collections
from around the globe, where the six shortlisted authors and their translators read from and discuss their works.
In the writer’s own words
Maggie Nelson is known for writing that crosses genre boundaries, interlacing personal experience with poetry, theory and criticism. She shares a first glimpse of her latest publication, Like Love, a career-spanning essay collection and love letter to art and artists, in conversation with writer Shon Faye.
Another writer whose brilliant works probe the limits of literature, Sheila Heti introduces Alphabetical Diaries, which mines a decade’s worth of the author’s own journals, carving a kaleidoscopic, playful and profound book from everyday observances.
Non-fiction with impact
Join us to delve into Long Live Queer Nightlife, Amin Ghaziani’s exhilarating exploration of the radically inclusive world of London’s queer spaces, at a panel discussion inspired by the book and chaired by journalist Zing Tsjeng. We mark Mental Health Awareness Week at Stories of Living with Mental Illness, an event
based on the powerful essay collection Will You Read This, Please?, edited by writer Joanna Cannon, that gives voice to unheard stories of mental health service users in the UK.
Poetry in motion
Discover new poets and join poetry-writing masterclasses at our monthly events presented in partnership with Out-Spoken. We’re also the home of the one-and-only National Poetry Library, the largest public collection of modern poetry in the world. If you have little ones, there's no better place to introduce them to the world of poetry than at Rug Rhymes, a regular storytelling session for under-5s.
Ready to read on? We've just announced more thought-provoking events for summer, too.
For all of our literature events and talks, head to our website
May highlights
Also this month...
When Forms Come Alive
It’s your last chance to catch our five-star Hayward Gallery exhibition of undulating, drooping and erupting artworks, spanning over 60 years of contemporary sculpture.
Until Monday 6 May
Brokentalkers & Adrienne Truscott: Masterclass
Speaking truth to power has never been so much fun: Masterclass is a hilarious play putting gender and privilege under the spotlight.
Thursday 9 – Sunday 12 May
Voices from the East
The Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and conductor Kirill Karabits bring to life orchestral masterpieces in a day-long celebration of music from Ukraine and its surrounding regions.
Voices from the East is an ongoing project between the BSO and Karabits to revive orchestral works which have not been previously performed by major European orchestras.
Between the three orchestral concerts, find out more at free events, including additional performances and talks from experts who put the music into context.
Sunday 19 May
See all the events and book on our website
Spring Family Fun
Our season of family-friendly events continues during the May half-term, with playful opera for babies, free art adventures and a high-energy musical show.
Until Sunday 2 June
Margaret Leng Tan: Dragon Ladies Don’t Weep
This autobiographical performance from the new music icon is an evocative exploration of memory, time, control and loss.
Friday 24 & Saturday 25 May
Tiffany Poon: Schumann, Bach & Chopin
The emerging pianist makes her London recital debut following the release of Diaries: Schumann
Sunday 26 May
Jaha Koo: Haribo Kimchi
In a South Korean snack bar, four lost souls take us on a journey through the history of South Korea through the familiar, startling and sacred language of food.
Friday 24 & Saturday 25 May
Classical music
Our programme celebrates the incredible 500-year history of classical music, bringing to life celebrated works from the past and telling brand new stories
Wednesday 1
Turangalîla with Jac van Steen
Described by Messiaen as ‘superhuman, overflowing, blinding, and unlimited’, Turangalîla is a ten-movement tour de force.
Royal College of Music Symphony Orchestra
Jac van Steen conductor
Messiaen Turangalîla-symphonie
7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £10
BBC Concert Orchestra: Unclassified Live – Kate Stables (This Is The Kit)
BBC Radio 3's genre-defying show is an uninterrupted listening party for curious ears, filled with unexpected meetings and joyous fusions.
André de Ridder conductor
This Is The Kit
Moor Mother
Modern Nature
Elizabeth Alker presenter
8pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15
Thursday 2
Odyssey Festival Orchestra: Lollipops and Blood
Take a voyage around the repertoire of Sir Thomas Beecham in a programme of music championed by the legendary conductor.
Peter Ash conductor
Julia Mintzer soprano
narrator to be announced
Mozart Overture, Der Schauspieldirektor (The Impresario); Sibelius Valse triste; Beecham Excerpts from The Gods go a'begging (after Handel); Delius La Calinda from Koanga; Smyth Overture, The Boatswain's Mate; Saint-Saëns Bacchanale from Samson et Dalila; Strauss Dance of the seven veils & Final scene from Salome
7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £10
Philharmonia Orchestra: Sunwook Kim Plays Brahms
The four movements of Brahms’ Second Concerto explore every facet of the piano’s expressive potential, by turns graceful and dramatic, stormy and tender.
Santtu-Matias Rouvali conductor
Sunwook Kim piano
Wagner Entry of the Gods into Valhalla from Das Rheingold arr. Zumpe; Brahms Piano Concerto No.2; Schumann Symphony No.3 in E flat (Rhenish), Op.97
7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £20
Friday 3
Chineke! Orchestra:
Goodyear, Berlioz, Garcia
The evening’s journey commences with Stewart Goodyear’s heartfelt tribute to his late mother, in its world premiere.
Malcolm J Merriweather conductor
Isabelle Peters soprano
Idunna Münch mezzo-soprano
Zwakele Tshabalala tenor
Roderick Williams baritone
Chineke! Amateur Symphonic Chorus
Stewart Goodyear Life, Life, Life (World premiere); Berlioz La mort de Cléopâtre for soprano & orchestra; Garcia Requiem 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15
Saturday 4
Game Music Festival: The Sounds of the Fireflies
Traverse the austere musical landscapes of The Last of Us as Gustavo Santaolalla’s soundtrack is brought to life in an unforgettable concert.
Philharmonia Orchestra
Robert Kurdybacha conductor
Gustavo Santaolalla guitar
Gustavo Santaolalla Music from The Last of Us arr. Robert Kurdybacha 1pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £40
Renaissance Quartet with Randall Goosby
Founded in 2021 by violinists
Randall Goosby and Jeremiah Blacklow, violist Jameel Martin and cellist Daniel Hass, this quartet is known for its mix of communicative engagement and technical finesse.
Price String Quartet No.1 in G; Daniel Hass String Quartet No.1 (Love and Levity) (European premiere); Brahms String Quartet in A minor, Op.51 No.2 3pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15
nonclassical at 20:
Sound Sculpture
A free pre-show installation, conceived and performed by Simon Knighton, creates evolving soundscapes that you can walk among. For ages 16+. Under-18s must be accompanied by an adult. 6pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
Game Music Festival:
The Symphony of the Realms
Gather your party to enter the Forgotten Realms in a performance of the Baldur’s Gate 3 soundtrack.
Philharmonia Orchestra
Robert Kurdybacha conductor Hertfordshire Chorus
Borislav Slavov Music from Baldur's Gate 3
7pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £40
nonclassical at 20: Outside the Lines & After Hours (Double Bill)
Mark nonclassical’s milestone birthday with a double bill: this concert features early career composers, followed by an afterparty with DJ sets. For ages 16+. Under-18s must be accompanied by an adult.
Chihiro Ono violin, viola Cecilia Bignall cello Blasio Kavuma electronics
Simon Knighton electronics Ensemble to be announced
Beatrice Ferreira & Harry Gorski-Brown (nonclassical Artists-in-Residence) New works; Chihiro Ono 8 (Hachi) for violin; simplexity2022 for field recording, electronics & violin; Blasio Kavuma Soundclash for cello & electronics; NWAKKE & Nneka Cummins (nonclassical Artistsin-Residence) New works; Simon Knighton New work for ensemble & electronics
7pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £20 for entry to both shows
nonclassical at 20: After Hours
The 20th anniversary celebrations continue with an after-party featuring DJ sets. For ages 16+. Under-18s must be accompanied by an adult.
9pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Tickets from £10 for entry to this show only
Sunday 5
OAE TOTS at LPO FUNharmonics: Dancing Around!
A fun, interactive children’s workshop led by members of the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment. For ages 2 – 5. 10.15am, 11.15am & 12.15pm; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £9 (adult) £3 (child)
FUNharmonics Family Concert: Appalachian Spring
Bring the family for a lively concert of celebration, optimism and fabulous American music. For ages 6+.
London Philharmonic Orchestra
Charlotte Politi conductor
Rachel Leach presenter
Copland Excerpts from Appalachian Spring; Fanfare for the common man; Rachel Leach One hundred years ago ...; Errollyn Wallen Excerpts from Mighty River; Joan Tower Fanfare for the uncommon woman
12 noon; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £16 (adult) £9 (child)
Manchester Collective: Rothko Chapel
What would it feel like to be inside a painting by Mark Rothko? This audio-visual live concert turns to the artist’s immense canvases for inspiration.
Manchester Collective string quartet, percussion
Ruth Gibson viola SANSARA chamber choir
Isobel Waller-Bridge Rothko No.9 (World premiere); Edmund Finnis Blue divided by blue (World premiere); Katherine Balch songs and interludes for chamber choir & percussion (World premiere); Missy Mazzoli Vespers for violin & electronics; Arvo Pärt Solfeggio for chorus; Saariaho 2 Movements from 7 Papillons for cello; Feldman Rothko Chapel for soprano, alto, mixed choir & instruments
4pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15
Future Artists: Royal Academy of Music & Manchester Collective
Hear works by brilliant young artists mentored by members of ensemble Manchester Collective, one of our current Resident Artists, through a series of workshops and conversations.
6pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Free, but ticketed
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.
Classical music multi-buy: with our multibuy offers, you can book concerts from across our classical music programme and receive a discount. There is a small number of events that aren’t included in the multibuy offer. Check individual event pages on our website for further details.
Children aged 7+ are welcome at most Southbank Centre classical concerts, except where indicated.
Wednesday 8
Aurora Orchestra: Eroica By Heart
Hear the sounds of a revolution in this memorised performance of Beethoven's Third Symphony, with an introduction from BBC Radio 3’s Tom Service and Principal Conductor Nicholas Collon featuring musical excerpts.
Nicholas Collon conductor
Strauss Metamorphosen; Beethoven Symphony No.3 (Eroica) (performed from memory)
7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15
Thursday 9
Philharmonia Chamber
Players: Schubert's Quintet in C
Poised between tranquillity and heartbreak, this quintet is one of the pinnacles of the chamber music repertoire.
Eunsley Park violin
Nuno Carapina violin
Rebecca Chambers viola
Richard Birchall cello
Alexander Rolton cello
Franz Schubert String Quintet in C, D.956
6pm; Royal Festival Hall; Free, but ticketed
Philharmonia Orchestra:
Alexandre Kantorow Plays Liszt
Liszt’s Piano Concerto No.2 is an uninterrupted 20 minutes of poetry in music, brimming with intense emotions.
Manfred Honeck conductor
Alexandre Kantorow piano
Liszt Piano Concerto No.2 in A; Bruckner Symphony No.9 (vers. 2000, ed. Cohrs)
7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £15
Friday 10
Royal Choral Society:
Fauré Requiem
As summer beckons, there’s warmth and contemplation in abundance with a programme of well-loved music.
London Mozart Players
Richard Cooke conductor
Rebecca Ryland-Jones soprano
Edward Price bass, narrator
Fauré Cantique de Jean Racine; Copland Appalachian Spring Suite; Vaughan Williams An Oxford Elegy for narrator, chorus & orchestra; Fauré Requiem
7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15
Saturday 11
Soumik Datta: Philharmonia
Artist in Residence
Virtuoso sarod player, composer, producer, bandleader and TV presenter Soumik Datta collaborates with musicians from the Philharmonia Orchestra.
7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £10
Thursday 16
The Bach Choir: The Dream of Gerontius
From Cardinal Newman’s poem, Elgar created his greatest choral work – if not the greatest by any English composer. Roderick Williams' Cusp is conceived as a companion piece to Elgar's masterwork.
Philharmonia Orchestra
David Hill conductor
Jennifer Johnston mezzo-soprano
Daniel Norman tenor
Roderick Williams baritone
Roderick Williams Cusp (World premiere); Elgar The Dream of Gerontius
7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £15
Alice Sara Ott & Francesco Tristano: Two Pianos
We’re treated to the intimate music-making and sonic dazzle of this celebrated piano duo.
Francesco Tristano A Soft Shell
Groove for 2 pianos; Serpentina; In the beginning was; Satie Gnossienne No.3; Frescobaldi
Partite sopra l'Aria di Folia, F.2.16; Debussy Nuages from Nocturnes arr. Ravel for 2 pianos; Satie Gymnopédie No.1; Francesco
Tristano Toccata; Ravel Boléro arr. Tristano for 2 pianos 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15
Sunday 19
Voices from the East: Azerbaijan & Turkmenistan
The first of three concerts in a day-long exploration of forgotten orchestral masterpieces from Ukraine and its surrounding regions.
Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra
Kirill Karabits conductor
Franghiz Ali-Zadeh Nagilar (Fairy Tales); Nurymov Symphony No.2; Garayev Seven Beauties Suite 1pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £15
Corinthian Orchestra
Performs Rite of Spring
Stravinsky’s landmark work supposedly caused a riot at its premiere in Paris and has been the touchstone for modern music ever since.
Michael Seal conductor
Petr Limonov piano
Ravel La valse; Rachmaninov Piano Concerto No.3; Stravinsky
The Rite of Spring
2pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15
Voices from the East: Georgia & Armenia
In the second concert of this daylong series, the focus is on music by two composers who were close friends.
Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra
Kirill Karabits conductor
Kancheli Styx for viola, chorus & orchestra; Terterian Symphony No.3
4pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £15
Voices from the East: Ukraine
In the last of today’s three concerts bringing the orchestra’s acclaimed series to London, Ukrainian conductor Kirill Karabits celebrates music by his compatriots.
Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra
Kirill Karabits conductor
de Hartmann Suite from La Fleurette Rouge; Anna Korsun Terricone; Lyatoshinsky Symphony No.4
7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £15
Saturday 25
The Music of Zimmer vs Williams
An epic concert celebrating the very best scores from two of the greatest film composers of all time.
London Concert Orchestra
Anthony Inglis conductor
Programme includes: E.T., Star Wars, Gladiator, Superman, Man of Steel, Harry Potter, Inception, Indiana Jones, Jurassic Park, The Da Vinci Code, The Dark Knight Rises & Pirates of the Caribbean
2.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £18.50
Beethoven's Ninth
Experience an uplifting allBeethoven concert, which ends with the rousing ‘Ode to Joy’.
London Philharmonic Orchestra
Christopher Warren-Green conductor
Danny Driver piano
London Philharmonic Choir
Beethoven Piano Concerto No.5 (Emperor); Symphony No.9 (Choral)
7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £19.50
Sunday 26
Tiffany Poon: Schumann, Bach & Chopin
The emerging pianist makes her London recital debut following the release of Diaries: Schumann Schumann Kinderszenen, Op.15; Papillons, Op.2; Ravel La valse; Bach Prelude and Fugue in C, BWV.846; Prelude and Fugue in C minor, BWV.847; Chopin 24
Preludes, Op.28
3pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15
Wednesday 29 – Friday 31
You Are the Sun
Part of Spring Family Fun
Explore the magic of nature and music in this relaxed and playful opera for babies and their grownups. Relaxed Performance (RP).
For ages 0 – 2.
Until Sun 2 Jun; various times; Blue Room, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £16 (admits one adult and one child)
Classical music multi-buy: with our multibuy offers, you can book concerts from across our classical music programme and receive a discount. There is a small number of events that aren’t included in the multibuy offer. Check individual event pages on our website for further details.
Children aged 7+ are welcome at most Southbank Centre classical concerts, except where indicated.
Literature & talks
We’re the home of literature and spoken word events in the UK, and our programme brims with today’s bestselling authors, rising literary stars and award-winning poetry
Until Sunday 12
A Birthday Garland
If you’ve ever wondered what it might be like to walk inside a single word, this free exhibition of work by artist Mary Kuper is for you.
For all ages.
Tue, 12 noon – 6pm; Wed – Sun, 12 noon –8pm (closed Mon); National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Thursday 9
Sara Pascoe’s Weirdo: Literature and Laughs
Featuring stand-up comedy and readings, this event celebrates the hilarious and touching book. Speech-to-Text transcribed (STT).
For ages 16+.
8pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15
Sunday 12
David Mitchell: Cloud
Atlas at 20
The author marks the 20th anniversary of his perfectly poised Rubik’s Cube of a novel. Speechto-Text transcribed (STT).
For ages 16+.
7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15
Thursday 16
Out-Spoken: May
Poet Joelle Taylor hosts another write-home-about-it night of inspiring live music and poetry. For ages 16+.
7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £12
Friday 17
International Booker Prize Shortlist Readings
The six authors and their translators shortlisted for the prize read from and discuss their books. For ages 16+.
7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15 Also available to watch via live stream; Free
Friday 17 & Friday 24
Rug Rhymes at the National Poetry Library
Hear some of your favourite nursery rhymes and rhyming stories from puppets Federico and Firebird. For ages 0 – 5.
11am; National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £4 (admits one adult and one child)
Saturday 18
Wild Isles Live
Join us for an evening of natural wonder on the big screen at this celebration of the BBC series. For ages 7+.
7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £29.50
Sunday 19
Stories of Living with Mental Illness
Joanna Cannon introduces essays by mental health service users this Mental Health Awareness Week. For ages 16+.
3pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £12
Sheila Heti: Alphabetical Diaries
The author speaks to Lauren Oyler about her new book, all about change and our resistance to it. Speech-to-Text transcribed (STT). For ages 16+.
7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15
Long Live Queer Nightlife
Zing Tsjeng chairs a panel discussion inspired by Amin Ghaziani’s exploration of the revolution revitalising urban nightlife. For ages 16+.
7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £12
Friday 24
Maggie Nelson: Like Love
Maggie Nelson discusses her new collection of spirited essays in conversation with Shon Faye. Speech-to-Text transcribed (STT) & British Sign Language (BSL) interpreted. For ages 16+.
7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £15
Sunday 26
Out-Spoken Masterclass: May
Develop your poetry skills with the guidance of a poetry pro at a three-hour weekend workshop. For ages 18+.
1pm; Sunley Pavilion, Level 3, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £20
Thursday 30
Hari Kunzru: Blue Ruin
Novelist Hari Kunzru shares his searing new novel, a reflection on art and success. For ages 16+.
7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall;Tickets from £15
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.
Performance & dance
Subversive and absurdist shows, sonic self-portraits and the latest stand-up: discover international performance here in our venues
Thursday 9 – Sunday 12
Brokentalkers & Adrienne Truscott: Masterclass
Speaking truth to power has never been so much fun: Masterclass is a hilarious play putting gender and privilege under the spotlight.
British Sign Language interpreted (BSL): Fri 10 May. For ages 16+.
Various times; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £25
Wednesday 15
Kanan Gill:
WHAT IS THIS?
One of India's best stand-ups returns to the UK with a show about nothing (and existential dread). For ages 16+.
8pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £30
Friday 24 & Saturday 25
Margaret Leng Tan: Dragon Ladies Don’t Weep
A sonic autobiographical portrait by the new music icon, performed on her signature toy piano. Audio Description & Touch Tour available: Sat 25 May. For ages 12+. 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £20
Jaha Koo: Haribo Kimchi
In a South Korean snack bar, four lost souls take us on a journey through history by means of food. For ages 13+.
Various times; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £20
Wednesday 29 – Friday 31
You Are the Sun
Part of Spring Family Fun
Explore the magic of nature and music in this relaxed and playful opera for babies and their grownups. Relaxed Performance (RP). For ages 0 – 2.
Until Sun 2 Jun; various times; Blue Room, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £16 (admits one adult and one child)
Friday 31
Pied Piper: A Hip-Hop Family Musical
Part of Spring Family Fun
Follow the music and a talented cast of beatboxers as this captivating, high-energy show pulls you under its spell. All performances are Relaxed Performances (RP) and Captioned. British Sign Language (BSL): Sat 1 Jun, 2.30pm. For ages 6+.
Until Sun 2 Jun; various times; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £14
James Acaster: Hecklers
Welcome
James Acaster, ‘one of comedy’s most original voices’ (Evening Standard ), has written a new show. Speech-to-Text transcribed (STT). For ages 14+.
Also on Sat 1 Jun; 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £35
Our events are not just for the grown-ups – bring your little ones along for musical adventures and free trails in our Spring Family Fun series
Sunday 5
OAE TOTS at LPO
FUNharmonics: Dancing Around!
A fun, interactive children’s workshop led by members of the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment. For ages 2 – 5.
10.15am, 11.15am & 12.15pm; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £9 (adult) £3 (child)
FUNharmonics
Family Concert: Appalachian Spring
Bring the family for a lively concert of celebration, optimism and American music. For ages 6+.
London Philharmonic Orchestra
Charlotte Politi conductor
Rachel Leach presenter
Copland Excerpts from Appalachian Spring; Fanfare for the common man; Rachel Leach One hundred years ago ...; Errollyn
Wallen Excerpts from Mighty River; Joan Tower Fanfare for the uncommon woman
12 noon; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £16 (adult) £9 (child)
Friday 17 & Friday 24
Rug Rhymes at the National Poetry Library
Hear some of your favourite nursery rhymes and rhyming stories from puppets Federico and Firebird. For ages 0 – 5. 11am; National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £4 (admits one adult and one child)
Wednesday 29 – Friday 31
You Are the Sun
Part of Spring Family Fun
Explore the magic of nature and music in this relaxed and playful opera for babies and their grownups. Relaxed Performance (RP). For ages 0 – 2.
Until Sun 2 Jun; various times; Blue Room, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £16 (admits one adult and one child)
Mish Mash Family Trail
Part of Spring Family Fun
Gather your family and friends and prepare for an interactive and colourful art journey across our site. Relaxed event. For ages 3+.
Until Sun 2 Jun; 10am – 4pm; across the site; Free
From Wednesday 29
Jeppe Hein’s Appearing Rooms
A summer favourite returns: a playful fountain that shoots jets of water into the air.
Wed – Sun, 10am – 9pm (subject to weather conditions and maintenance), closed Mon & Tue; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Friday 31
Pied Piper: A Hip-Hop Family Musical
Part of Spring Family Fun
Follow the music and a talented cast of beatboxers as this captivating, high-energy show pulls you under its spell. All performances are Relaxed Performances (RP) and Captioned. British Sign Language (BSL): Sat 1 Jun, 2.30pm. For ages 6+.
Until Sun 2 Jun; various times; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £14
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.
Family Booking
Art & exhibitions
From internationally acclaimed artists at the Hayward Gallery to free displays and outdoor installations, art and exhibitions can be found all around our site
Until Monday 6
When Forms Come Alive
Grab your chance to see this ‘tremendous show’ (The Observer). Undulating, drooping, erupting sculptures feature in this Hayward Gallery group exhibition, spanning over 60 years of contemporary art.
Tue – Fri, 10am – 6pm; Sat, 10am – 8pm; Sun, 10am – 6pm (closed Mon); Hayward Gallery; Tickets from £18 (free to Southbank Centre Members & under-12s)
Until Sunday 12
A Birthday Garland
If you’ve ever wondered what it might be like to walk inside a single word, this free exhibition of work by artist Mary Kuper is for you. For all ages.
Tue, 12 noon – 6pm; Wed – Sun, 12 noon –8pm (closed Mon); National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Wednesday 1
Relaxed Tours: When Forms Come Alive
Join us on a ‘Sensing Sculpture’ Relaxed Tour of our exhibition
When Forms Come Alive, where we centre our senses to discover the artwork. When there are sensory elements included in the show, such as bright lights and sound features, these are modified for this event. Relaxed Tours are open to all, and we encourage bookings from SEND schools and community groups.
2pm; Hayward Gallery; Tickets from £8, includes entry to exhibition (for info on free community bursary tickets, contact haywardrelaxedhours@ southbankcentre.co.uk)
Thursday 2
When Forms Come Alive: Somatic Exhibition Tours
Experience sculpture from an embodied perspective on a tour led by somatic movement educator AD Kerton. No previous experience of movement practice is necessary.
8pm; Hayward Gallery; Tickets from £18
From Wednesday 29
Jeppe Hein’s Appearing Rooms
A summer favourite returns: a playful fountain that shoots jets of water into the air.
Wed – Sun, 10am – 9pm (subject to weather conditions and maintenance), closed Mon & Tue; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Gigs
Whatever you’re into, join us for gigs showcasing sensational sounds from across the globe, including free performances from up-and-coming artists
Friday 3
Sleeping At Last
Musician Ryan O’Neal shares ambient, emotive tracks from his revered Atlas project and beyond. For ages 7+.
7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £27.50
Saturday 11
Soumik Datta: Philharmonia
Artist in Residence
Virtuoso sarod player, composer, producer, bandleader and TV presenter Soumik Datta collaborates with musicians from the Philharmonia Orchestra.
7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £10
Thursday 16
futuretense: [ K S R ] + Osquello
Part of futuretense
Two maverick musicians whose music refuses to be pinned to one genre take to the stage.
6pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
Friday 17
Simmer Down
Get ready to feel the reggae rhythm at this free monthly daytime dance that'll get you grooving. For all ages.
1.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Jesse Cook
See the nuevo-flamenco guitarist and his band in their only UK show of spring 2024.
7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £30
Saturday 18
Lena Chamamyan: Songs from Syria and Beyond
Enter the enchanting world of the Syrian-Armenian singer, whose mesmerising music traverses borders.
7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £29
Olivia Cuttill & COLECTIVA
In a double bill, jazz trumpeter
Olivia Cuttill performs music from her new album with her quartet, followed by energetic tropical jazz rhythms from COLECTIVA.
7.30pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15
Thursday 23
futuretense:
THEO + The Shellers
Part of futuretense
An evening of high-energy, highoriginality music awaits in this edition of our free gig series.
6pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
NYX Vocal Workshop: Tones, Bones and Drones
Explore being part of a collective voice in this restorative vocal workshop with drone choir NYX. For ages 16+.
7pm; Gamelan Room, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £5
Wednesday 29 & Thursday 30
Assassin's Creed Symphonic Adventure
Experience the world of Assassin’s Creed like never before, with an immersive concert performed by a full orchestra and synchronised with on-screen videos.
7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £30
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.
Ages 14+ are welcome at most Southbank Centre gigs, except where indicated.
MEMBERS GET
Presale tickets
Get the first chance to book with priority booking.
Eye-popping art
See it all with a whole year of free entry to the Hayward Gallery.
Knockout views
Take in the Thames from your own Members’ Lounge.
Delicious discounts
Treat yourself with up to 20% off in our shops and restaurants.
Join now from £69 southbankcentre.co.uk/join
Free events
There's lots to see and do for free here this month, including sound installations, classical music favourites and daytime dances for all ages
Until Sunday 12
A Birthday Garland
If you’ve ever wondered what it might be like to walk inside a single word, this free exhibition of work by artist Mary Kuper is for you. For all ages.
Tue, 12 noon – 6pm; Wed – Sun, 12 noon –8pm (closed Mon); National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Saturday 4
nonclassical at 20: Sound Sculpture
A free pre-show installation, conceived and performed by Simon Knighton, creates evolving soundscapes. For ages 16+.
Under-18s must be accompanied by an adult.
6pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
Sunday 5
Future Artists: Royal Academy of Music & Manchester Collective
Hear works by brilliant young artists mentored by members of Resident Artist Manchester Collective through a series of workshops and conversations.
6pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Free, but ticketed
Thursday 9
Philharmonia Chamber
Players: Schubert's Quintet in C
Poised between tranquillity and heartbreak, this quintet is one of the pinnacles of the chamber music repertoire.
Eunsley Park violin
Nuno Carapina violin
Rebecca Chambers viola
Richard Birchall cello
Alexander Rolton cello
Franz Schubert String Quintet in C, D.956
6pm; Royal Festival Hall; Free, but ticketed
Thursday 16
futuretense: [ K S R ] + Osquello
Part of futuretense
Two maverick musicians whose music refuses to be pinned to one genre take to the stage.
6pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
Friday 17
Simmer Down
Get ready to feel the reggae rhythm at this free monthly daytime dance that'll get you grooving. For all ages.
1.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Friday 17 – Friday 24
International Booker Prize Shortlist Readings: Live Stream
Tune in to hear from the six shortlisted authors and their translators. For ages 16+.
From 7.45pm on Friday 17; Online events; Free (also available to watch live, from £15)
Thursday 23
futuretense: THEO + The Shellers
Part of futuretense
An evening of high-energy, highoriginality music awaits.
6pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
Wednesday 29 – Friday 31
Mish Mash Family Trail
Part of Spring Family Fun
Gather your family and friends and prepare for an interactive and colourful art journey across our site. Relaxed event. For ages 3+.
Until Sun 2 Jun; 10am – 4pm; across the site; Free
From Wednesday 29
Jeppe Hein’s Appearing Rooms
A summer favourite returns: a playful fountain that shoots jets of water into the air.
Wed – Sun, 10am – 9pm (subject to weather conditions and maintenance), closed Mon & Tue; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
highlights
Upcoming
Chaka Khan’s Meltdown
Iconic singer and musician Chaka Khan curates the 29th edition of Meltdown, the UK’s longest-running artist-curated music festival, taking place in June. Khan celebrates 50 years of a pioneering career, bringing her incredible voice and global influence to the Southbank Centre during the ten-day festival.
Tavares Strachan: There Is Light Somewhere
An artist of lost stories shines a light on unsung trailblazers and hidden histories in our next Hayward Gallery exhibition.
Tuesday 18 June – Sunday 1 September
Pekka Kuusisto & Norwegian Chamber Orchestra: DSCH
Showcasing the works of Shostakovich, DSCH is a musical experience fusing theatre, lighting and visual elements.
Saturday 29 & Sunday 30 June
Meltdown 2024 is set to be a festival as joyous and diverse as Khan’s catalogue, with a sensational selection of artists spanning jazz, R&B, soul and more.
Friday 14 – Sunday 23 June
Also coming soon
Yuja Wang
Her previous recital here was called dazzling, brilliant, compelling and irresistible – and now star pianist Yuja Wang is back for more.
Friday 7 June
Grand Soft Day
Explore the excitement of the wind, rain, frost and much more in this curious and charming show that celebrates the wonder of the world, for ages 2 – 6.
Saturday 1 & Sunday 2 June
The Land Acknowledgement or As You Like It
Shakespeare’s classic takes on an entirely new meaning in this subversive retelling by Cliff Cardinal, part of LIFT 2024.
Wednesday 5 – Sunday 9 June
Miranda July: All Fours
Writer, director, screenwriter, artist and actor Miranda July introduces her subversive second novel in conversation with Eley Williams.
Wednesday 12 June
Eat & explore
A sizzling street food feast
The Southbank Centre Food Market has just celebrated its ninth birthday, making it one of the most established street food markets in London. To mark almost a decade of being part of our offering at the buzzing heart of the city, it’s had a tasty refresh –and we can’t wait to share it with you!
Summer has a festival feel at our updated market stands: day trippers, theatre goers and foodie pilgrims are greeted with bright awnings and bunting aplenty to match the fiesta of food on offer.
Boasting tantalising Thai food, delightful Polish delicacies, fabulous Korean fusion dishes and more marvellously more-ish options, there’s plenty to
enjoy from over 30 specially selected stalls. All of our traders are self-confessed foodies, so don't be afraid to ask them for their favourite dish or secret ingredient for their recipes!
Pop in for lunch, stop by for a sweet treat in the afternoon, or stick around for the evening buzz with cocktails, beers, and 15 types of cuisine to taste your way through each time you visit. So don’t hang about – come and enjoy a sizzling slice of the global scene in the centre of London.
The Southbank Centre Food Market is open Fri, 12 noon – 9pm; Sat, 11am – 9pm; Sun, 12 noon – 6pm (9pm before a bank holiday); bank holidays, 12 noon – 6pm
Let’s do lunch (or breakfast or dinner)
What could be a better setting to embrace the sights of spring in London than in a sun-soaked restaurant tucking into fresh Lebanese fare?
Luckily, that’s exactly what’s on offer with the newest addition to our restaurant offering, Comptoir Libanais, which opened on Mandela Walk in April. Comptoir Libanais is a staple of the Middle Eastern scene in London, with spots around the city serving up dishes inspired by the streets, homes and cafes of the Middle East and North Africa, including a legendary lemonade selection, creative cocktails and mocktails, and famously tasty food and sweet treats. Feast your senses – and feed all the family – on hot and cold classics including their famous mixed grill,
delicious slow-cooked tagines, light summer salads and mezze platters ideal for sharing (if you can bear to let anyone else get a taste of the baba ganoush!).
Welcoming hungry guests all day, the restaurant offers mouthwatering menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner – and all of it’s served with generous Lebanese hospitality.
It’s a great spot to take a break from half-term activities, with plenty on the menu for young eaters, as well as activity sheets to keep them entertained. And with seats outside, it’s ideal for soaking up the almost-summer sun around our site.
Comptoir Libanais is located on Mandela Walk, Level 2. Open Mon –Wed, 9am – 10pm; Thu – Sat, 9am – 11pm; Sun, 9am – 9pm
Queen Elizabeth Hall & Purcell Room
Royal Festival Hall
Waterloo Bridge
National Theatre
Hayward Gallery
BelvedereRd
About the Southbank Centre
London Eye
IMAX
YorkRd
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 our on-site bars and cafes – including our Queen Elizabeth Hall Roof Garden, now open for the summer – and visit our shops for products inspired by our great cultural experiences, iconic buildings and central London location. Find more to explore on-site at Beany Green, Comptoir Libanais, Côte Brasserie, Foyles, Giraffe, Honest Burgers, La Gamba, Las Iguanas, Ping Pong, Pret, Strada, Skylon, 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. On Southbank Centre Square, Belvedere Road, the market is open Fri – Sun & bank holidays (closed Sun 12 May). Check our website for opening times.
Join us
Become a Member and never miss a moment. Join for presales to all of our events, free entry to the Hayward Gallery, access to our Members’ Lounge and a discount on selected retailers and restaurants. Our Supporters Circles enjoy all of the benefits of Membership, as well as getting closer to the artists with invitations to rehearsals, openings and more. Check our website for more details.
southbankcentre.co.uk/join
Environmental sustainability
Environmental sustainability is hugely important to the Southbank Centre and is one of our strategic priorities, and we’re already making progress towards our aim of being a net zero carbon organisation by 2040. For further information, see our website. southbankcentre.co.uk/sustainability
How to book tickets
Online southbankcentre.co.uk*
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.
Scan the QR code to see our full event listings.
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
London Waterloo East
To receive publications in alternative formats, and for further information, email accesslist@southbankcentre.co.uk or phone 020 3879 9555. An audio version of this publication is available online at soundcloud.com/southbankcentreaudio
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
Theatre company Brokentalkers and artist Adrienne Truscott bring their subversive, savage wit to this long-awaited London premiere of Masterclass, Thursday 9 – Sunday 12 May, following an award-winning international tour.
Image credits
On the cover: Brokentalkers & Adrienne Truscott: Masterclass © Ste Murray
Inside cover: Sara Pascoe © Rachel Sherlock
This month's highlights: Kirill Karabits © Mark Allan; Installation view of Tara Donovan, When Forms Come Alive (7 February – 6 May 2024). Photo: Jo Underhill. Courtesy the Hayward Gallery; Pied Piper: A Hip-Hop Family Musical © Ali Wright; Tiffany Poon © Remy Holwick; Brokentalkers & Adrienne Truscott: Masterclass © Ste Murray; Dragon Ladies Don’t Weep © Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay. Photo: Crispian Chan; Haribo Kimchi © Jaha Koo
Header images: Classical music: Alice Sara Ott & Francesco Tristano © Marie Staggat / DG; Literature & talks: Sheila Heti © Fitzcarraldo; Performance & dance: Masterclass © Ste Murray; Family: You Are the Sun © Adam Walker, Hubspoke Media; Art & exhibitions: Installation view of Franz West, When Forms Come Alive (7 February – 6 May 2024). Photo: Jo Underhill. Courtesy the Hayward Gallery; Gigs: Olivia Cuttill © image courtesy of the artist; Free events: nonclassical at 20: Sound Sculpture © Dimitri Djuric
Upcoming highlights: Chaka Khan © Jo Metson Scott; Tavares Strachan, A Map of the Crown (Congo Candle Wick), 2022. Courtesy of the artist. Photo: Claire Dorn; Yuja Wang © Norbert Kniat; The Land Acknowledgement or As You Like It © Dahlia Katz; Pekka Kuusisto © Magnus Skrede; Grand Soft Day © Anita Murphy; Miranda July © Elizabeth Weinberg
Eat & explore: Southbank Centre Food Market, Voodoo and Pochi © Jake Philip Davis; Comptoir Libanais
Listings correct at time of going to press (2024).
Southbank Centre is a registered charity no. 298909
This guide has been made using 100% recycled paper.
PLACE FSC LOGO HERE