Southbank Centre monthly listings June 2024

Welcome to the Southbank Centre

The 29th edition of our iconic artist-curated music festival, Meltdown, bursts across the Southbank Centre for ten days of unforgettable sights and sounds and sees the legendary ‘Queen of Funk’ Chaka Khan at the helm. She’s celebrating five decades of musical greatness with an inclusive and joyous line-up that expresses her enduring legacy as an artist, activist and change-maker.

Our summer season You Belong Here takes off

in June, inspired by our new Hayward Gallery exhibition, Tavares Strachan: There Is Light Somewhere. This is the artist’s first midcareer survey, showcasing the ways that his works speak of unsung explorers and cultural trailblazers, extending from the gallery across the site with large-scale public art works.

The You Belong Here season takes its name from one of Strachan’s text-based neon sculptures, installed on the gallery’s exterior.

The welcoming nature of that message – which is so important for these times – runs through our summer season, which starts with the Pride party NAZAR, continuing into September with an exploration and celebration of community, connection and belonging.

Mark Ball

Artistic Director, Southbank Centre

Friday 14 – Sunday 23 June

Chaka Khan’s Meltdown

Soak up the sounds of jazz, funk, hip-hop and soul at Meltdown festival, with ten days of concerts, club nights and free activities for all

Get ready for a summer of soul: the 29th edition of Meltdown, the UK’s longest-running artistcurated music festival, is finally here, and we can’t wait for a sizzling celebration of music and community curated by the iconic Chaka Khan. With the ten-time Grammy winner herself headlining two shows, the line-up boasts classic hits and cutting-edge sounds from near and far, as well as a packed programme of community events to lift your spirits. Join us as we honour our legendary curator's half-century in the industry – because when it comes to music, ain’t nobody does it better.

A legendary line-up

Looking for big bucket-list names? We’ve got plenty. British songwriting powerhouse Emeli Sandé belts out her heartfelt pop hits; the original street band WAR brings us all together with a message of harmony; and Todrick Hall struts his stuff.

If that wasn’t enough, giants Morcheeba, Incognito and Bruce Hornsby all add to the stellar sweep of talent taking to the stage, alongside pan-African feminist supergroup Les Amazones d'Afrique, who present pop-infused harmonies mixed with modern African music; and Lady Blackbird, whose jazz melodies soar to the ceilings of the Royal Festival Hall.

Home-grown rhythms

London’s talent has a major part to play in the festival, with Master Peace pushing genre boundaries, Balimaya Project blending West African rhythms with London’s vibrant sounds, and Speakers Corner Quartet sharing the stage with the Guildhall Session Orchestra. Over in the Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer, get your kicks as DIY-rooted punk band Big Joanie packs a punch of feminist punk and synth.

Share in something good

Meltdown is a celebration of creativity and community for all – as Khan says, ‘This festival isn't just about music, it's a feast for all your senses, a gathering of hearts and souls.’

Take to our Riverside Terrace for free events galore, including London Queer Soundsystem Day, featuring Khan’s sister Taka Boom; and Habibti Nation playing remixed SWANA and Arabic music from emerging women, nonbinary and trans DJs.

Meanwhile, at Peng Femme Jam the spotlight’s on women and non-binary talent, with a performance and open jam breaking the maledominated mould. And the fun doesn’t end when the sun goes down: get hot and sweaty with two iconic queer club nights and raves,

Adonis Afters and Queer Bruk & Friends, which transform our Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer into a concrete jungle of beats and dreams.

Find your flow

This year’s festival also features plenty of calming activities, including life drawing and deep listening, which reflect Khan’s commitment to wellbeing.

Take a moment to recharge at Love What You Feel: Yoga with Karim x Adrienne, an immersive yoga experience set to live improvised piano music; get closer to Khan’s biggest hits and deepest cuts at Ancestral Communal Listening: A Chaka Celebration with Michael Mwenso; and take in a soothing sound bath at Echoes with BALM Sound for a mid-week wind-down. There’s plenty more to look forward to, onstage and off, so join us over ten fabulous days to let down your hair, as Khan invites us to ‘Get ready to sing, dance, and feel the love!’

June highlights

Also this month...

Spring Family Fun

Join us during the half-term holidays for family-friendly events galore, featuring family musicals, playful shows and outdoor dance parties.

Wednesday 29 May – Sunday 2 June

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

Tavares Strachan: There Is Light Somewhere

Unsung trailblazers and lost cultural connections are vividly commemorated in artworks that reveal hidden stories while also illuminating histories of bias.

This is is the first mid-career survey dedicated to the work of New Yorkbased, Bahamian artist Tavares Strachan (born in 1979).

Featuring monumental new sculptural commissions alongside striking large-scale collages, neon works, bronze and ceramic sculptures, and mixed-media installations, the exhibition takes visitors on a journey of discovery and recovery that is simultaneously playful and impactful.

Tuesday 18 June – Sunday 1 September

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

LIFT 2024: Nadia Beugré – L'Homme rare

With innovative choreography and staging, Nadia Beugré brings perceptions of gender, and how we view and objectify bodies, into stark relief.

Wednesday 12 & Thursday 13 June

LIFT 2024: The Land Acknowledgement or As You Like It

Shakespeare’s comedy of divisions takes on an entirely different meaning in this daring, subversive retelling by Cliff Cardinal.

Wednesday 5 – Sunday 9 June

NAZAR

Our summer season You Belong Here gets off to an unmissable start with NAZAR, a joyous open-air party celebrating Pride in London, featuring DJs from the SWANA and South Asian communities.

Saturday 29 June

Gigs

The 29th edition of Meltdown, our artist-curated festival, lands this month, showcasing sensational sounds from across the globe

Saturday 8

Villagers

The Dublin-based Irish indie folk band enchant with new album That Golden Time, with support from Edinburgh songwriter Hamish Hawk. Under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.

7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £32.50

Thursday 13

futuretense: Chisara

Agor + J Casa

Part of futuretense

Wordplay, storytelling, hip-hop and soul share the stage in this free concert platforming new music. For all ages.

6pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free

Friday 14

Tell Me Something Good with Habibti Nation

Part of Meltdown

Our Riverside Terrace stage thrums with SWANA and Arabic sounds meeting Chaka Khan’s musical universe. For all ages.

6pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Les Amazones d'Afrique

Part of Meltdown

The pan-African feminist supergroup brings a new sound and message for the world.

7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Tickets from £22.50

Chaka Khan: A Celebration of 50 Years in Music

Part of Meltdown

The incomparable curator of this year’s Meltdown celebrates her biggest hits. Support comes from Trevor Nelson. British Sign Language interpreted (BSL).

7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £60

Norman Jay & Friends

Part of Meltdown

It’s good vibes and uplifting energy all round with this late-night DJ line-up. For ages 18+ only.

10.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Tickets from £25

Saturday 15

London Queer Soundsystem Day

Part of Meltdown

Celebrate Chaka Khan’s gift to London’s queer dance floors at a soundsystem special feat. DJ sets from Deptford Northern Soul Club, Black Obsidian Sound System, Panty Soaker Sound System and more. For all ages.

2pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Master Peace

Part of Meltdown

Master Peace brings his weird, wonderful and cacophonous musical world to the stage.

7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Tickets from £18.50

Emeli Sandé

Part of Meltdown

Emotional, honest and with a heartfelt pop sensibility, Emeli Sandé has a decade of hits to her name.

9pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £35

Adonis Afters

Part of Meltdown

The cult queer rave throws the official after-party for London Queer Soundsystem Day (L.Q.S.D)

With Shay Malt, Josh Caffé, Hannah Holland and a special guest. For ages 18+ only.

10.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Tickets from £15

Sunday 16

Funk This with New Movementz UK

Part of Meltdown

Come and witness the best young dance talent go head-to-head for the championship prize. For all ages.

1pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Ancestral Communal

Listening: A Chaka Celebration

Part of Meltdown

Michael Mwenso leads an interactive listening journey into Chaka Khan’s biggest hits and deepest cuts. For ages 5+.

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

Todrick Hall

Part of Meltdown

Step into the world of storytelling sensation Todrick Hall for an unforgettable performance.

7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £35

Rahsaan Patterson

Part of Meltdown

The singer bridges R&B, funk, jazz, gospel and electronica in this eclectic concert.

7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £35 anaiis

Part of Meltdown

Settle in for a stunning and intimate art performance with a live quartet and choir as anaiis reflects on Black motherhood.

7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £20

Monday 17

Speakers Corner Quartet & Guildhall Session Orchestra

Part of Meltdown

This electrifying collaboration showcases new compositions and orchestral reworks.

7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £25

Tuesday 18

An Evening with Bruce Hornsby Part of Meltdown

The virtuosic singer-songwriter behind The Way It Is boasts a back catalogue full of sonic surprises.

9pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £30

Wednesday 19

Echoes with BALM Sound

Part of Meltdown

Bathe in vibrations with this sound bath blending singing bowls, gongs and gentle percussion. For ages 12+.

5.15pm & 8.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free, but ticketed

Youth Voices: A Celebration of Chaka

Part of Meltdown

Join the Southbank Centre's Youth Voices choir to celebrate the music of Meltdown. For all ages.

6pm; Ballroom Cafe, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free

Love What You Feel: Yoga with Karim

x Adrienne

Part of Meltdown

Discover the new frontier of yoga practice in this immersive mediative music experience.

7pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free, but ticketed

Mica Paris

Part of Meltdown

A powerhouse evening with the vocalist whose career has taken her from a church to the charts.

7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £20

SIPHO.

Part of Meltdown

The singer and songwriter takes us on a journey through the deepest parts of his inner world.

7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £17.50

Incognito: 45th

Anniversary Celebration

Part of Meltdown

The acid-jazz, funk and soul collective bring their infectious grooves to life.

9pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £35

Thursday 20 futuretense:

Meltdown Special

Part of Meltdown

Soulful melodies and R&B rhythms set the scene in this edition of our free gig series, featuring BIM, JaJa Kisses and Tyler Max. For all ages.

5.40pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Eye to Eye with Our Naked Truths

Part of Meltdown

Celebrate the beauty of women and non-binary people of colour through life drawing and conversation.

7pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free, but ticketed

Reuben James

Part of Meltdown

The rising star singer, songwriter and pianist brings us an evening of soul, jazz and spellbinding songs.

7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £20

Judi Jackson

Part of Meltdown

With a voice that demands to be heard live, the rising-star jazz vocalist takes to the stage.

7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £25

Lady Blackbird

Part of Meltdown

Soak up the soul-stirring music of Lady Blackbird, with jazz-infused hits and soulful covers.

9pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £30

Friday 21

Through the Fire with Sisters in Dub

Part of Meltdown

The all-women chariot of fire reignites the sound system flare at a free party on the terrace with Kinetika Bloco. For all ages.

6pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free Balimaya Project

Part of Meltdown

Feel the fusion of West African rhythms and the vibrant sounds of London in this multi-genre concert.

7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Tickets from £25

WAR

Part of Meltdown

Formed in 1969, the original street band fuses soulful sounds and a message of harmony.

9pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £35

Queer Bruk & Friends

Part of Meltdown

The club night brings its creativity to the dance floor at an unforgettable queer after-party, with amorphous, Girls Can't DJ, Jungle Kitty and To The Left. For ages 18+ only.

10.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Tickets from £7

Saturday 22

Queer C*ntry

Part of Meltdown

Saddle up for a day-long rodeo featuring a host of incredible cabaret and live music on the terrace. For all ages.

3pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Big Joanie

Part of Meltdown

The Black feminist punk band returns with a blend of 1990s riot grrrl and synth-heavy post punk.

7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Tickets from £15

Morcheeba

Part of Meltdown

Genre-mashing Morcheeba takes on Meltdown with the band’s signature fusion of downbeat, chill, electropop and soul. Support comes from Cardinal Black.

8pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £30

Sunday 23

Masterjam with Vibe Village

Part of Meltdown

London’s best vocalists and musicians rework Chaka Khan’s cuts in the ultimate masterjam. For all ages.

1.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

House Gospel Choir:

Sunday Service

Part of Meltdown

The innovative choir presents a fusion of the biggest house, gospel and garage tunes to uplift and empower.

7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £30

Peng Femme Jam

Part of Meltdown

Make some music with a live jam session, highlighting and nurturing femme and non-binary talent.

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

Chaka Khan & Nu

Civilisation Orchestra:

ClassiKhan

Part of Meltdown

Live with an orchestra, Chaka Khan presents ClassiKhan for the finale of Meltdown 2024. British Sign Language interpreted (BSL). 9pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £60

Friday 28

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

Saturday 29

NAZAR

Part of You Belong Here

NAZAR returns for a joyous party celebrating London Pride, with DJs from the SWANA and South Asian communities. For ages 14+, more adult content after 9pm.

4pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Sunday 30

From the Lips to the Moon

Part of You Belong Here

Fill up your senses with a night of music, poetry and visuals from Pouya Ehsaei and Tara Fatehi. For ages 16+.

7.30pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £8 (free tickets also available; pay what you can)

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.

Some Meltdown events feature Beat Blocks, a multi-sensory interactive flooring system. See event pages for more details.

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

Throughout the month

You Belong Here: Public Art

Part of You Belong Here

Explore spectacular art across our site for free with thoughtprovoking works connected to the theme of this year’s summer season, You Belong Here

Until Sun 1 Sep; Across the site; Free

Jeppe Hein’s Appearing Rooms

Part of You Belong Here

A summer favourite returns: a playful fountain that shoots jets of water into the air.

Wed 29 May – Sun 1 Sep; Wed – Sun (subject to weather conditions and maintenance), 10am – 9pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

From Tuesday 18

Tavares Strachan: There Is Light Somewhere

Part of You Belong Here

In our new Hayward Gallery exhibition, an artist of lost stories shines a light on unsung trailblazers and hidden histories.

Until Sun 1 Sep; Tue – Fri, 10am – 6pm; Sat, 10am – 8pm; Sun, 10am – 6pm (closed Mon); Hayward Gallery; Tickets from £18 (free to Southbank Centre Members & under-12s)

Naomi Rincón Gallardo: Sonnet of Vermin

Creatures of Central American folklore form a surreal choir calling for an end to colonial violence in a free exhibition.

Until Sun 1 Sep; Tue – Fri & Sun, 10am –6pm; Sat 10am – 8pm; HENI Project Space, Hayward Gallery; Free

Tuesday 18

Teachers’ Twilight: Tavares Strachan

Primary, secondary and SEND teachers are invited to explore our current Hayward Gallery exhibition.

4.30pm; Hayward Gallery; Free, but ticketed

Wednesday 26

Primary Schools

Morning: Tavares Strachan

Take a trip to our current Hayward Gallery exhibition, in a free session for primary school groups. 10am; Hayward Gallery; Free, but ticketed

Thursday 27

Secondary Schools

Morning: Tavares Strachan

Take in our current exhibition and explore the artwork in a free event for secondary school groups. 10am; Hayward Gallery; Free, but ticketed Exhibition Panel

Discussion: Tavares Strachan

Join expert writers and curators to discuss the Hayward's spectacular new exhibition Tavares Strachan: There Is Light Somewhere, led by the gallery director Ralph Rugoff. 7.30pm; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £8

Performance & dance

Magical family shows, subversive retellings and innovative dance: discover international performance here in our venues

Saturday 1

James Acaster: Hecklers

Welcome

James Acaster, ‘one of comedy’s most original voices’ (Evening Standard), has written a new show. For ages 14+.

7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £35

Saturday 1 & Sunday 2

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.

Various times; Blue Room, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £16 (admits one adult and one child)

Pied Piper: A Hip-Hop

Family Musical

Part of Spring Family Fun

In this family show, hip-hop beats and a talented cast of beatboxers bring to life a modern twist on the classic story. All performances are Relaxed Performances (RP) and Captioned. British Sign Language (BSL) interpreted: Sat 1 Jun, 2.30pm. For ages 6+.

Various times; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £14

Grand Soft Day

Part of Spring Family Fun

A playful show about always being prepared even though you don’t know what the day will bring. Relaxed Performance (RP). For ages 2 – 6.

11.30am & 2pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £14

Wednesday 5 – Sunday 9

LIFT 2024: The Land Acknowledgement or As You Like It

Shakespeare’s comedy of divisions takes on an entirely different meaning in this daring, subversive retelling by Cliff Cardinal.

Various times; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £25

Wednesday 12 & Thursday 13

LIFT 2024: Nadia Beugré – L'Homme rare

Nadia Beugré uses innovative choreography to probe and challenge perceptions of gender. Audio Description available: Thursday 13 June. For ages 16+.

7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £20

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

Saturday 1 & Sunday 2

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.

Various times; Blue Room, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £16 (admits one adult and one child)

Sunday 2

Music of Today: Composers' Academy

Be the first to hear new music by three rising stars, this year's Phiharmonia Composers' Academy Fellows.

Yfat Soul Zisso Spiral (World premiere); Florence Anna Maunders Bare Boss, Innit? (World premiere); Mathis Saunier Noctopolis (World premiere) 6pm; Royal Festival Hall; Free, but ticketed

Philharmonia Orchestra: Brahms & Beethoven with Isabelle Faust

Soloist Isabelle Faust calls the Beethoven concerto ‘one of the most beautiful and most important works of the violin repertoire.’

Philippe Herreweghe conductor Isabelle Faust violin Beethoven Violin Concerto; Brahms Symphony No.4

7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £15

Thursday 6

Philharmonia Orchestra: Santtu Conducts Elgar's Enigma Variations

The Enigma Variations, Elgar’s tribute to his closest friends, crowns this irresistible programme and the Philharmonia’s 2023/24 season.

Santtu-Matias Rouvali conductor Sol Gabetta cello Liszt Hungarian Rhapsody No.2 arr. Doppler for orchestra; Shostakovich Cello Concerto No.1; Elgar Enigma Variations

7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £20

Friday 7

Yuja Wang

Dazzling, brilliant and irresistible: a few words used to describe the pianist’s previous recital here. Yuja Wang piano Programme to be announced. 7pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £15

Saturday 8

Chineke! Orchestra:

Sowande, Kinoshi, Richter

This evening is an exploration of musical realms that bridge tradition and innovation, starting with the lively African Suite by Sowande.

Rosie Bergonzi handpan

Elena Urioste violin

Sowande African Suite; Cassie Kinoshi Handpan Concerto (London premiere); Max Richter Vivaldi's Four Seasons Recomposed

7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15

Sunday 9

Icons Rediscovered: Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini

Rachmaninov first put pen to paper in the summer of 1934 for what would become one of his most beloved works.

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

Vasily Petrenko conductor

Alexander Malofeev piano

Rachmaninov Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini; Elgar Falstaff

3pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £15, from £5 for under-18s

Wednesday 26

Parliament Choir: Beethoven’s Missa Solemnis

The Parliament Choir celebrates its 25th anniversary with a performance of Beethoven’s majestic and exhilarating late masterpiece.

Southbank Sinfonia

Simon Over conductor

Jennifer Pike violin

Lucy Crowe soprano

Jess Dandy contralto

Dominic Bevan tenor

William Thomas bass

Beethoven Romance in F for violin & orchestra, Op.50; Mass in D (Missa solemnis)

7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £10

Thursday 27

Ben Goldscheider & Philip Dawson: Horn & Electronics

A performance by the horn player who is transforming perceptions of this ancient instrument.

Ben Goldscheider horn

Philip Dawson live electronics

Alex Groves Single Form (Dawn); Zoë Martlew Nibiru (World premiere); Hildegard Westerkamp Fantasie for horns II; Thea Musgrave Golden Echo III (World premiere); Mark Simpson Darkness Moves II (World premiere)

6.30pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £20

Debut Sounds: Sound in Motion

George Balanchine famously said ‘Dance is music made visible’ – we invite you to come and ‘see the music’ at this year’s Debut Sounds showcase.

Players from the London Philharmonic Orchestra

London Philharmonic Orchestra

Foyle Future Firsts

Tania León conductor

Luis Castillo-Briceño conductor

Charlotte Politi conductor

Choreographer-performers from Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Drama

Jasper Dommett Zip, Zap, Boooooogie!!! (World premiere); Eliana Echeverry Diásporas (World premiere); Zhenyan Li Extrapolating (World premiere); Phoenix Rousiamanis Unfamiliar flesh (World premiere); Crystalla Serghiou SALT (World premiere)

8pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £6

Friday 28

Organ at 70: Ourania Gassiou & Eleni Keventsidou

Celebrate the Royal Festival Hall organ’s history with a programme culminating with Kenneth Leighton's powerful duet, Martyrs Ourania Gassiou organ Eleni Keventsidou organ

Bach Allegro from Brandenburg Concerto No.2 in F arr. Reger for keyboard (4 hands); Franck Choral No.2 in B minor; Cochereau Scherzo symphonique; Liszt Funérailles from Harmonies poétiques et religieuses, S.173 arr. Nicolas Kynaston for organ; Reger Rhapsodie in C sharp minor, Op.65 No.1; Toccata in E minor, Op.65 No.11; Leighton Martyrs - dialogues on a Scottish psalm tune for organ duet, Op.73

6pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £20

Héloïse Werner Album

Launch: close-ups

The soprano and composer launches her sophomore album in an event full of musical surprises.

Héloïse Werner soprano, cello Max Baillie violin, viola, hardanger fiddle

Julian Azkoul violin

Ruth Gibson viola

Colin Alexander cello

Marianne Schofield double bass

Kit Downes cello

Hildegard of Bingen O vis eternitatis arr. Alexander & Werner; Pinel Sombres lieux arr. Schofield; Strozzi Che si può fare arr. Birchall; Héloïse Werner Les leçons du mardi; Errollyn Wallen Tree; Héloïse Werner Lullaby for a sister; close-ups; Unspecified intentions arr. Alexander & Werner; & Instrumental improvisations

8pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £20

Saturday 29

OAE TOTS: Let’s Go on an Adventure!

An interactive musical adventure for kids, led by Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment players. For ages 2 – 5.

10.30am & 12 noon; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £12 (adult) £4 (child)

James McVinnie

Ensemble: American Minimalism

An all-minimalist programme from the keyboard collective spans 60 years, from Philip Glass onwards.

James McVinnie keyboards

Eliza McCarthy keyboards

Siwan Rhys keyboards

Hugh Rowlands keyboards

Gabriella Smith Imaginary Pancake; Philip Glass Etoile polaire; Mon père, Mon père; Ange des orages from North Star; Music in contrary motion; inti figgisvizueta Build it yourself; John Adams China Gates; Hallelujah Junction

6pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £20

Saturday 29 & Sunday 30

Pekka Kuusisto & Norwegian Chamber Orchestra: DSCH

Showcasing the works of Shostakovich, DSCH is a musical experience fusing theatre, lighting and visual elements to challenge the traditional concert form.

Pekka Kuusisto director, violin Sat 29 Jun, 8pm; Sun 30 Jun, 3pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15

Sunday 30

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse in Concert

Experience the epic film on a huge HD screen, with music from the film performed by a live orchestra. 2.30pm & 6.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £25.50

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.

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

Saturday 1

Poetry Workshop: We're All Living the Same Life

Discover how personal lines take on universal resonance in this online poetry workshop. For ages 18+.

11am; Online events; Tickets from £5

Dr Federica Amati: Every Body Should Know This

The nutritionist presents her revolutionary new book on making healthier choices for life.

7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15

Sunday 2

Chigozie Obioma: The Road to the Country

The twice Booker-shortlisted author joins us for an exclusive event in celebration of his new novel.

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

Wednesday 5

Richard Flanagan: Question 7

The Booker Prize-winning author presents his magnificent memoir in this London-exclusive event. Speech-to-Text transcribed (STT).

7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15

Special Edition: Joy//Us –Poems of Queer Joy

Join us for an unapologetically upbeat anthology of poems celebrating what makes LGBTQIA+ people happy.

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

Friday 7 & Friday 21

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 15

Poetry Workshop: History's Missing Documents

Deconstruct the subversive relationship between documented history and poetry in this online workshop.

11am; Online events; Tickets from £5

Wednesday 19

European Poetry Festival: Catalan Poetry

Hear new work by contemporary Catalan poets and their British counterparts.

8pm; National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Free, but ticketed

Saturday 22

Song of Myself: BidWriting Workshop for Poets

Learn to unlock creative funding with a practical workshop from poet and arts fundraiser Oliver Fox. For ages 18+.

11am; Online events; Tickets from £5

Saturday 29

Poetry Workshop: Somatic Rituals for Revision

Wednesday 12

Miranda July: All Fours

The writer and film-maker introduces her subversive new novel in conversation with Eley Williams. Speech-to-Text transcribed (STT).

7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £20

Thursday 13

Out-Spoken: June

Get your monthly helping of live music and hot-off-the-press poetry at our ever-popular night, hosted by poet Joelle Taylor.

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

Friday 14

Uncovering Careers in Music: Meltdown Edition

Part of Meltdown

Come and meet some of the backstage heroes responsible for bringing Chaka Khan's Meltdown to life. For ages 14+.

11am; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Free, but ticketed

Explore somatic exercises to ground you in your body and make physical interventions on your poems. For ages 18+.

11am; Online events; Tickets from £5

Sunday 30

Out-Spoken Masterclass: June

Learn tips and tricks from leading poets at a three-hour poetry workshop, open to writers of all abilities. For ages 18+.

1pm; Sunley Pavilion, Level 3, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £25

Home: Short Films

Screening + Q&A

Part of You Belong Here

Mark Refugee Week with a series of short films exploring stories of migration and refugee narratives.

3pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £8

From the Lips to the Moon

Part of You Belong Here

Fill up your senses with a night of music, poetry and visuals from Pouya Ehsaei and Tara Fatehi.

7.30pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £8 (free tickets also available; pay what you can)

Ages 16+ are welcome at most Southbank Centre literature events and talks, except where indicated.

Family

Our events are not just for the grown-ups – bring your little ones along for high-energy music and wondrous shows in our Spring Family Fun series

Saturday 1

The Mughal Miniatures Dance Party

Part of Spring Family Fun

Enjoy an outdoor show with popup pictures, a dance workshop and a live DJ to keep the party going. Relaxed Performance (RP). Performances and DJ for all ages. Workshops for ages 5+.

12 noon; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Saturday 1 & Sunday 2

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.

Various times; Blue Room, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £16 (admits one adult and one child)

Pied Piper: A Hip-Hop Family Musical

Part of Spring Family Fun

In this family show, hip-hop beats and a talented cast of beatboxers bring to life a modern twist on the classic story. All performances are Relaxed Performances (RP) and Captioned. British Sign Language (BSL) interpreted: Sat 1 Jun, 2.30pm. For ages 6+.

Various times; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £14

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+.

10am – 4pm, see webpage for more details; across the site; Free

Grand Soft Day

Part of Spring Family Fun

A playful show about always being prepared even though you don’t know what the day will bring. Relaxed Performance (RP). For ages 2 – 6.

11.30am & 2pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £14

Wednesday 5, 12, 19 & 26

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)

Friday 7 & Friday 21

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 29

OAE TOTS: Let’s Go on an Adventure!

An interactive musical adventure for kids, led by Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment players. For ages 2 – 5.

10.30am & 12 noon; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £12 (adult) £4 (child)

Free events

There's lots to see and do for free at the Southbank Centre, including gigs, open-air parties and immersive experiences as part of Meltdown festival

Throughout the month

You Belong Here: Public Art

Part of You Belong Here

Explore spectacular art across our site with thought-provoking works connected to the theme of our summer season, You Belong Here Until Sun 1 Sep; Across the site; Free

Jeppe Hein’s Appearing Rooms

Part of You Belong Here

A summer favourite returns: a playful fountain that shoots jets of water into the air.

Wed 29 May – Sun 1 Sep; Wed – Sun (subject to weather conditions and maintenance), 10am – 9pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Saturday 1

The Mughal Miniatures Dance Party

Part of Spring Family Fun

Enjoy an outdoor show with popup pictures, a dance workshop and a live DJ to keep the party going. Relaxed Performance (RP). Performances and DJ for all ages. Workshops for ages 5+.

12 noon; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Sunday 2

Music of Today: Composers' Academy

Be the first to hear new music by three rising stars, this year's Phiharmonia Composers' Academy Fellows. For ages 7+.

Yfat Soul Zisso Spiral (World premiere); Florence Anna Maunders Bare Boss, Innit? (World premiere); Mathis Saunier Noctopolis (World premiere)

6pm; Royal Festival Hall; Free, but ticketed

Saturday 1 & Sunday 2

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+.

10am – 4pm, see webpage for more details; across the site; Free

Wednesday 5, 12, 19 & 26

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)

Wednesday 12

Secondary Schools Come and Sing Day

Looking to start a school choir? Bring your students to a day of singing, workshops and discussions. For secondary school groups (years 7 – 13).

10am; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free, but ticketed (schools only)

Thursday 13

futuretense: Chisara Agor + J Casa

Part of futuretense

Wordplay, storytelling, hip-hop and soul share the stage in this free concert platforming new music. For all ages.

6pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free

Friday 14

Uncovering Careers in Music: Meltdown Edition

Part of Meltdown

Come and meet some of the backstage heroes responsible for bringing Chaka Khan's Meltdown to life. For ages 14+.

11am; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Free, but ticketed

Tell Me Something Good with Habibti Nation

Part of Meltdown

Our Riverside Terrace stage thrums with SWANA and Arabic sounds meeting Chaka Khan’s musical universe. For all ages.

6pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Saturday 15

London Queer Soundsystem Day

Part of Meltdown

Celebrate Chaka Khan’s gift to London’s queer dance floors at a soundsystem special feat. DJ sets from Deptford Northern Soul Club, Black Obsidian Sound System, Panty Soaker Sound System and more. For all ages.

2pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Sunday 16

Funk This with New Movementz UK

Part of Meltdown

Come and witness the best young dance talent go head-to-head for the championship prize. For all ages.

1pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Ancestral Communal

Listening: A Chaka Celebration

Part of Meltdown

Michael Mwenso leads an interactive listening journey into Chaka Khan’s biggest hits and deepest cuts. For ages 5+.

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

From Tuesday 18

Naomi Rincón Gallardo: Sonnet of Vermin

Creatures of Central American folklore form a surreal choir calling for an end to colonial violence in a free exhibition.

Until Sun 1 Sep; Tue – Fri & Sun, 10am –6pm; Sat 10am – 8pm; HENI Project Space, Hayward Gallery; Free

Tuesday 18

Teachers’ Twilight: Tavares Strachan

Primary, secondary and SEND teachers are invited to explore our Hayward Gallery exhibition.

4.30pm; Hayward Gallery; Free, but ticketed

Wednesday 19

Echoes with BALM Sound

Part of Meltdown

Bathe in vibrations at a sound bath blending singing bowls, gongs and gentle percussion. For ages 12+.

5.15pm & 8.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free, but ticketed

Youth Voices: A Celebration of Chaka Part of Meltdown

Join the Southbank Centre's Youth Voices choir to celebrate the music of Meltdown. For all ages.

6pm; Ballroom Cafe, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free

Love What You Feel: Yoga with Karim x Adrienne

Part of Meltdown

Discover the new frontier of yoga practice in an immersive mediative music experience. For ages 14+.

7pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free, but ticketed

European Poetry Festival: Catalan Poetry

Hear new work by contemporary Catalan poets and their British counterparts. For ages 16+.

8pm; National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Free, but ticketed

Thursday 20

futuretense:

Meltdown Special

Find soulful melodies and R&B rhythms at this gig with BIM, JaJa Kisses and Tyler Max. For all ages.

5.40pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Eye to Eye with Our Naked Truths

Part of Meltdown

Celebrate the beauty of women and non-binary people of colour through life drawing and conversation. For ages 14+.

7pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free, but ticketed

Friday 21

Through the Fire with Sisters in Dub

Part of Meltdown

The all-women chariot of fire reignites the sound system flare at a free party on the terrace with Kinetika Bloco. For all ages.

6pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Saturday 22

Queer C*ntry

Part of Meltdown

Saddle up for a day-long rodeo featuring a host of incredible cabaret and live music on the terrace. For all ages.

3pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Sunday 23

Masterjam with Vibe Village

Part of Meltdown

London’s best vocalists and musicians rework Chaka Khan’s cuts in the ultimate masterjam. For all ages.

1.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

Tuesday 25

Taster Sessions with Grounded Ecotherapy

If you’re local and seeking a supportive recovery programme, discover the benefits of ecotherapy. For ages 18+ only.

11am; Roof Garden, Queen Elizabeth Hall; Free (only by referral, contact artsandwellbeing@southbankcentre.co.uk for more info)

Friday 28

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

Saturday 29

NAZAR

Part of You Belong Here

NAZAR returns for a joyous party celebrating London Pride, with DJs from the SWANA and South Asian communities. For ages 14+, more adult content after 9pm.

4pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free

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.

Upcoming highlights

You Belong Here

Our summer season gets into full swing from July, bursting with spectacular and thought-provoking performance, art, conversations, music and family fun. You Belong Here is a beacon of welcome for all, creating spaces for conversation, connection and community-building.

Sound Within Sound

Open your ears to music's lost pioneers at our new festival, a four-day journey through unconventional musical experiences inspired by the book Sound Within Sound by journalist Kate Molleson.

Thursday 4 – Sunday 7 July

David Olusoga: Black British History and Belonging

The BAFTA-winning historian and film-maker charts the story of Black British history, bringing to light underrepresented narratives.

Thursday 11 July

You Belong Here is inspired by the unsung stories and forgotten trailblazers celebrated in our Hayward Gallery exhibition Tavares Strachan: There Is Light Somewhere, and takes its name from one of Strachan’s text-based neon sculptures.

Saturday 29 June – Sunday 8 September

Also coming soon

Free Riverside Stage

As part of You Belong Here, we’re collaborating with some of London’s most exciting artists and collectives on our Riverside Stage for free weekend events featuring live music, performance, dance and fashion.

Saturday 29 June – Sunday 18 August

Afrique en Cirque

Roll up for an incredible display of acrobatics, artistry and Afro-jazz rhythms in a joyous circus show inspired by daily life in Guinea, filled with colour, energy and gravity-defying moves.

Wednesday 24 – Sunday 28 July

Crazy Smooth: In My Body

Bodies become dance battlegrounds in this performance about the highs and lows of ageing in hip-hop, taken from intergenerational dancers’ personal stories.

Thursday 18 – Saturday 20 July

An Evening with David Sedaris

One of America’s most celebrated satirists and humour writers returns to our Royal Festival Hall to read new and unpublished stories and meet his audience.

Thursday 4 & Friday 5 July

Eat & explore

Summer food and drink pop-ups

There’s a reason why the Southbank Centre is one of London’s top destinations in the summer months. Take a breezy stroll along the riverside, bask in the warmth on our terraces and Roof Garden, and soak up the sights and sounds of our summertime events. If all that fun makes you peckish, we’ve got you covered. Quench your thirst at Puzzles, a relaxed familyfriendly bar under Hungerford Bridge, with a selection of summer slushies, including soft options. The Thirsty Farrier’s signature vintage horsebox bar is also saddled up on the riverside, serving cocktails galore. Seeking something savoury? Jimmy's BBQ Club returns, stacking plates with grilled delights in their

cabana by the Thames. Redefining the classic hot dog, Frank! brings creativity and British ingredients to the bun-based favourite. Finally, Truffle Burger is back with burgers and sides that nod to their star ingredient, the indulgent truffle.

To complete your pop-up tour, be sure to end with something sweet. ARØUND riffs off American-style cookies in their perfectly gooey bakes, while the SNOG Frozen Yogurt bus serves up frosty dairy cups with an array of tempting toppings.

Our summer pop-ups are on-site until Sunday 22 September.

southbankcentre.co.uk/foodanddrink

Queen Elizabeth Hall Roof Garden

It's too good to keep to ourselves: did you know that there’s a green and flourishing oasis on the roof of the Queen Elizabeth Hall? Take the yellow stairs up from our Riverside Terrace to get acquainted with the glorious city views, gorgeous greenery and luscious lawn – the garden even has its own Bar & Kitchen, too. Since it opened in 2011, the garden has become a firm favourite for those in the know. Pop in at lunchtime to catch some rays or relax with a book, and stay until dusk for a cold drink with friends and spectacular views. As well as a range of classic summertime drinks, the Bar & Kitchen offers speciality coffee, plus savoury and sweet snacks to enjoy on the side.

This peaceful sanctuary is home to more than 200 wild native species of plants, all thriving in the concrete surroundings of the Queen Elizabeth Hall’s iconic brutalist architecture. The garden, originally created in partnership with the Eden Project, was built and continues to be maintained by a team of incredible volunteers alongside our head gardener, Paul Pulford, founder of Grounded Ecotherapy, a pioneering recovery programme.

Roof Garden: Wed – Sun, 12 noon – dusk (subject to weather conditions); Bar & Kitchen: Wed – Fri, 4pm – dusk; Sat, Sun & bank holidays, 12 noon – dusk. For step-free access to the Roof Garden, please ask a member of staff

About the Southbank Centre

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.

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 newly refurbished Festival Bar & Kitchen and Ballroom Cafe on Level 2 of the Royal Festival Hall, and the 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 onsite 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. 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

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.

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

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

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On the cover

Bringing her incredible voice and global influence, iconic singer and musician Chaka Khan curates the 29th edition of Meltdown, the UK’s longest-running artist-curated music festival, taking place Friday 14 – Sunday 23 June.

Image credits

On the cover: Chaka Khan © Jo Metson Scott

Inside cover: Speakers Corner Quartet © Marc Sethi

This month's highlights: Tavares Strachan, A Map of the Crown (Congo Candle Wick), 2022. Bronze, human hair, wood. Courtesy of the artist. Photo: Claire Dorn. Pied Piper: A Hip-Hop

Family Musical © Ali Wright; Yuja Wang © Norbert Kniat; The Land Acknowledgement or As You Like It © Dahlia Katz; Pekka Kuusisto © Magnus Skrede; Nadia Beugré – L'Homme rare © Olivier Miche; NAZAR © NAZAR

Header images: Gigs: Les Amazones d'Afrique © Karen Paulina Biswell; Art & exhibitions: Tavares Strachan, Six Thousand Years, (2018). Courtesy of Regen Projects Los Angeles, photo by Bryan Forrest. Performance & dance: You Are the Sun © Adam Walker, Hubspoke Media; Classical music: Chineke! Orchestra © Eduardus Lee; Literature & talks: Chigozie Obioma © Nikki Moore; Family: Pied Piper: A Hip-Hop Family Musical © Ali Wright; Free events: The Mughal Miniatures Dance Party © Simon Richardson Upcoming highlights: You Belong Here: Just Vibez: The Friday Fete © courtesy Just Vibez; Free Riverside Stage: Counterpoints Arts: Our HeartBeats © Marcia Chandra; Crazy Smooth: In My Body © Jerick Collantes; David Olusoga © Karen Robinson; Afrique en Cirque © Peter Graham; David Sedaris © Anne Fishbein

Eat & explore: Summer pop-ups: The Thirsty Farrier © Arnaud Mbaki; Queen Elizabeth Hall Roof Garden © Lia Vittone Photography