Welcome to the Southbank Centre
We dance in our kitchens, on the streets, in village halls and night clubs. We dance to express ourselves, to be joyful, revolutionary and to find our community. Over the summer we’re celebrating why we dance and the dance floors that connect us in our series Dance Your Way Home, inspired by Emma Warren’s book of the same name.
Dance Your Way Home chimes deeply with our own rich history of communal dance, from traditional tea dances on The Clore Ballroom to today’s summer-defining terrace parties. Dance Your Way Home captures that magic at scale, with dozens of free events taking place on our new dance floor installation on the Riverside Terrace, alongside a programme of
performances, talks, gigs, poetry and artworks, all inspired by and in celebration of dance and the dance floor. So come as you are and move together with us – there’s room for everybody on the dance floor.
Mark Ball
Artistic Director, Southbank Centre
Wednesday 23 July – Friday 29 August
Dance Your Way Home
Our summer series is an ode to the dance floors that unite us across space and time
‘If you dance, you’re a dancer.’ So begins writer Emma Warren’s book Dance Your Way Home, from which our buzzing summer series takes its name and inspiration.
With dozens of events taking place this month, our site is transformed into a hub of communities moving in sync: come on down to join us and find your feet on the dance floor.
Shake it off
Check out our free parties taking over the Riverside Terrace throughout August. A Dance Floor Journey conjures a whirlwind trip through African-derived dances, and you’ll find plenty of good tunes and equally good craic at Bass in the Borough and Hooley in the Kitchen
Meanwhile, Grief Rave offers a safe space to let go in good company; and Move Like You with Rain Crew encourages you to get down however you like, while inclusive dance jam session
Move Like You: Sensory Safe Cypher runs alongside, a space for chronically ill, disabled and neurodiverse dancers.
Cut new shapes
If you’re in the mood to learn new tricks, twostep along to workshops and social dances with Deptford Northern Soul Club and friends,
who share their mastery of feel-good moving, and put your best foot forward at Steps of Resistance, a chance to learn Middle Eastern Dabke dancing.
At Mix & Move: Carnival Ceilidh, traditional ceilidh dancing meets street dance grooves, and find your flow at Skate Up Space, where wheels are the way forward (and side-to-side).
Talk it up
Find out why dance moves us and what it means to communities across the world in talks and panel events including Babylon: Revisited with Jazz Jamaica, a film screening with live music and conversation, and talks Out to the Dancers and Free Party: A Folk History
Listen up as authors, musicians and movers including Dennis Bovell, Femi Koleoso, Musa Okwonga, Corbin Shaw and Emma Warren share their dance floor stories and shine a light on the power of dancing together.
Watch and learn
Ásrún Magnúsdóttir: Listening Party, which sees London’s teenagers share their joys, sorrows and favourite tracks, is guaranteed to move young and old, while History of Hip-Hop’s soundtracked tales of rhythm and rebellion
are on hand to keep spirits high on the terrace through the August bank holiday.
Feel uplifted with joyful, energetic concerts from young musicians at summer showcases from Kinetika Bloco and Tomorrow’s Warriors, and close out the summer with a weekend of participatory workshops and performances showcasing dance styles from around the globe at Bring the Dance You Have
Beyond the dance floor
Until Monday 25 August, our site is filled with beautiful artwork reflecting dance’s centrality to our lives in the city and beyond (find a map in this issue). Wonder at The Space Between, a light display that interacts with dancers to throw patterns onto the Riverside Terrace, and catch a vibe from Denzil Forrester’s colourful murals on the Royal Festival Hall walls. Explore it all to find what moves you.
To discover all of the events in the series, head to our website
August highlights
Also this month...
Iris Colomb: Try! Try! Try! Again!
Dive into Iris Colomb’s daring poetic experiments in this debut solo exhibition, merging poetry with other art forms in unexpected ways.
Thursday 24 July – Sunday 4 January
Gustavo Dudamel & Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra
Marking its 50th year, the celebrated orchestra performs lively Bernstein and Falla works.
Thursday 28 August
Yoshitomo Nara
The largest European retrospective to date of Yoshitomo Nara, one of Japan’s most celebrated artists, is now in its final few weeks at the Hayward Gallery. Described as ‘punk rock art for your inner child’ by The London Standard, our five-star exhibition features more than 150 works in drawing, painting, sculpture, installation and ceramics, offering audiences the opportunity to immerse themselves in Nara’s personal and creative worlds.
Celebrated across the globe for his powerful portraits with eyes that gaze back at the viewer, and his drawings that engage with daily experiences, Nara explores themes of resistance, rebellion, isolation, freedom and spirituality.
This thematic exhibition reveals enduring influences on the artist’s work, particularly nature and its mythology, the peace movement, the significance of home, and his interest in punk and rock music and popular culture.
Until Sunday 31 August
Find out more about the exhibition and book online
REPLAY: A Limitless Recycled Playground
Our colourful, recycled playground for little ones and their grown-ups has become a firm family favourite – visit now before it closes.
Until Sunday 24 August
HVYWGHT & The Outlook Orchestra: 20 Years of Dubstep
Dance your way through the journey of dubstep, as our Dance Your Way Home series comes to a triumphant end.
Friday 29 August
Out to the Dancers
Explore personal stories around the power of music, dance and community with Dance Your Way Home author Emma Warren, co-curator of our summer series of the same name, and Ezra Collective’s Femi Koleoso.
Friday 8 August
Nicola Sturgeon: Frankly
Scotland’s first female First Minister and former leader of the SNP shares her long-awaited memoir reflecting on her life, in conversation with Cathy Newman. Friday 29 August
Free events
There's lots to see and do for free at the Southbank Centre this month, including open-air parties on our terrace to celebrate Dance Your Way Home
Throughout the month
Ghazaleh Avarzamani and Ali Ahadi: Freudian Typo
Explore a multi-layered exhibition of image-based works, sculpture, video and found objects.
Until Sun 31 Aug; Tue – Fri & Sun, 10am - 6pm; Sat, 10am – 8pm (closed Mon); HENI Project Space, Hayward Gallery; Free
Iris Colomb:
Try! Try! Try! Again!
Part of Dance Your Way Home
The daring poetic experiments in this exhibition merge poetry with other art forms.
For ages 16+ | Until Sun 4 Jan; Tue, 12 noon –6pm; Wed – Sun, 12 noon – 8pm (closed Mon); National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Future Exhibition
Makers: The People’s Exhibition
Get new perspectives on the 1951 Festival of Britain in a free display created by 15 young people.
Until Fri 28 Nov; Tue, 10am – 6pm; Wed – Sun, 10am – 11pm (closed Mon); Archive Studio, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Bharti Kher: Target Queen
On the exterior of the Hayward Gallery, a colourful artwork transforms the bindi into a supersized potent motif.
Daily; Hayward Gallery Wall, Belvedere Road Side; Free
Klaus Weber: Thinking Fountains
An outdoor sculpture commission features two water-spouting bronze figures and a waterfall. Daily (subject to weather conditions); Hayward Gallery Terrace; Free
Until Monday 25
Dance Your Way Home: Public Art
Discover incredible free art across our site with inspiring works connected to the theme of dancing. Daily; Across the site; Free
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 1
A Dance Floor Journey
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Grounded Movement takes to our terrace dance floor with an eclectic mix of African-derived social dances.
For all ages | 5.30pm – 10.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Saturday 2
Urban Ritual:
From Cuba to Brazil
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Afro-Cuban and Brazilian dance and music.
For all ages. After 9pm content may be more suitable for adults | 2pm – 10.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Sunday 3
Grief Rave
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Welcome to the Grief Rave, a space to let go and dance out all intersections of loss.
For all ages; 1pm – 6m; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Tomorrow's Warriors
Extraordinary Summer Showcase
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Catch live music from some of the finest young jazz musicians on London’s fizzing scene.
For all ages | 4pm – 7pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
Thursday 7, 14 & 21
Our HeartBeats: Unity in Motion
Part of Dance Your Way Home
On Thursday evenings, join us on the terrace for global club sounds, community and celebration, in collaboration with Kensaye and Counterpoints Arts.
For all ages | Thu 31 Jul & Thu 7, Thu 14 & Thu 21 Aug; 6pm – 10pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Friday 8
Deptford Northern Soul
Club & Friends
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Spin on down to an evening of Northern soul dancing and vinyl DJ sets on our terrace.
For all ages. After 9pm content may be more suitable for adults | 5.30pm – 10.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Bass in the Borough
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Wear your dancing shoes and meet us on the dance floor for Kinetika Bloco’s summer bonanza.
For ages 12+ | 7pm – 9.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Saturday 9
Skate Up Space
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Rollerskaters: assemble for a day of workshops, live music and DJs guiding us to move together.
For all ages | 2pm – 10pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Sunday 10
Femi Koleoso Presents
Situation Dance
Part of Dance Your Way Home
The Ezra Collective bandleader brings his musical love letter to London here in a free party for all.
For all ages | 1pm – 7pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Friday 15
Steps of Resistance
Part of Dance Your Way Home
See a live Dabke performance and learn the traditional dance with fun workshops and a DJ.
For all ages | 5.30pm – 10.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Kinetika Bloco Summer Showcase: Joy in Motion
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Celebrate music and dance in this joyful concert presented by Kinetika Bloco’s summer school graduates.
For all ages | 7pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Saturday 16
Hooley in the Kitchen
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Everyone’s welcome at this energetic party with live music, dancing and good craic.
For all ages. After 9pm the content may be more suitable for adults | 2pm – 10.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Sunday 17
Move Like You:
Sensory Safe Cypher
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Join us for an inclusive dance jam session, a space for chronically ill, disabled and neurodiverse dancers to educate, express and exchange with each other through movement and music.
For all ages | 12 noon – 3pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Move Like You with Rain Crew
Part of Dance Your Way Home
With categories open to all, workshops and DJ sets, this battle welcomes all types of dance and dancers.
For all ages | 1pm – 6pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Friday 22
Mix & Move: Carnival Ceilidh
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Dance along to a mix of ceilidh steps and street dance grooves at a summer edition of our welcoming dance workshops for everyone.
For all ages | 3pm – 5pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Make Yourself! Be Yourself!
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Spread joy and freedom on the dance floor with club-night pioneers Heart n Soul.
For all ages. After 9pm the content may be more suitable for adults | 6pm – 10.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Saturday 23
Bring the Dance You Have: Saturday
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Get down and bring your dance moves to our Riverside Terrace on this bank holiday weekend.
For all ages | 12 noon – 10.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Sunday 24
Bring the Dance You Have: Sunday
Part of Dance Your Way Home Dance displays and workshops on our Riverside Terrace fill the closing weekend of our joyful Dance Your Way Home series.
For all ages | 12 noon – 10.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Monday 25
Fun DMC 10th Birthday
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Celebrate the end of summer and a landmark occasion for FUN DMC with a family-friendly block party.
For all ages | 12 noon – 2.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
History of Hip-Hop
Part of Dance Your Way Home
This isn’t just a party: join a living journey through the history of British club culture.
For all ages | 3pm – 7pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Friday 29
Simmer Down
Part of Open Doors
Get ready to feel the reggae rhythm at our free monthly meet-up and daytime dance.
For all ages | 1.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
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
Yoshitomo Nara
Discover the captivating, creative world of the Japanese artist at the largest European retrospective of his work to date.
Until Sun 31 Aug; see website for opening times; Hayward Gallery; Tickets £20 (free to Members; concessions available)
Ghazaleh Avarzamani
and Ali Ahadi:
Freudian Typo
Explore a multi-layered exhibition of new image-based works, sculpture, video and found objects.
Until Sun 31 Aug; see website for opening times; HENI Project Space, Hayward Gallery; Free
Iris Colomb: Try! Try! Try! Again!
Part of Dance Your Way Home
The daring poetic experiments in this exhibition merge poetry with other art forms.
For ages 16+ | Until Sun 4 Jan; Tue, 12 noon –6pm; Wed – Sun, 12 noon – 8pm (closed Mon); National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Future
Exhibition Makers: The People’s Exhibition
Get new perspectives on the 1951 Festival of Britain in a free display created by 15 young people.
Until Fri 28 Nov; Tue, 10am – 6pm; Wed – Sun, 10am – 11pm (closed Mon); Archive Studio, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Bharti Kher:
Target Queen
On the exterior of the Hayward Gallery, a colourful artwork transforms the bindi into a supersized potent motif.
Daily; Hayward Gallery Wall, Belvedere Road Side; Free
Klaus Weber: Thinking Fountains
An outdoor sculpture commission features two water-spouting bronze figures and a waterfall.
Daily (subject to weather conditions); Hayward Gallery Terrace; Free
Until Monday 25
Dance Your Way Home: Public Art
Explore spectacular art across our site for free, with many works connected to the theme of our series Dance Your Way Home – find them all using the map opposite. Daily; Across the site; Free
Jeppe Hein's Appearing Rooms
A summer favourite returns. By shooting jets of water into the air, the fountain creates rooms that disappear as quickly as they emerge.
Wed – Sun, 10am – 9pm (subject to weather conditions and maintenance; closed Mon & Tue); Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Saturday 2
British Sign Language Tours: Yoshitomo Nara
Join us for a British Sign Language interpreted (BSL) tour of our current Hayward Gallery exhibition, with artist Rubbena Aurangzeb-Tariq. 5pm; Hayward Gallery; Tickets from £8
Thursday 28
Members’ Private View: Yoshitomo Nara
Explore Yoshitomo Nara’s captivating personal and creative worlds away from the crowds. 6pm; Hayward Gallery; Free (Members only)
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
Wednesday 6
Special Edition: Femina Culpa Poetry & Justice
Hear from poets Linda McKenna, Emma McKervey and Milena Williamson on the shared themes of their new collections.
For ages 16+ | 8pm; National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £9
Friday 8
Out to the Dancers
Part of Dance Your Way Home
How can music, dance and social spaces unite everyone? Dance Your Way Home author Emma Warren and Ezra Collective’s Femi Koleoso explore in conversation.
For ages 12+ | 7.30pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £12
Saturday 9
Free Party: A Folk History
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Chart the life of the free party movement in this film screening and discussion with key figures. The film is Captioned. The post-film talk is Speech-to-Text transcribed (STT).
For ages 16+ | 7pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £12
Sunday 10
Corbin Shaw in Conversation with Musa Okwonga
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Explore how dance has shaped Shaw's work on national identity, collective experience and masculinity.
For ages 16+ | 7.30pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15
Thursday 21
Damian Barr: The Two Roberts
The writer’s profoundly moving new book is a story of devotion and obsession, art and class.
For ages 16+ | 7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15
Wednesday 27
Raymond Antrobus: The Quiet Ear
The writer discusses his new memoir, exploring what it means to live in the ‘in-betweeness’. Speech-to-Text transcribed (STT) and British Sign Language interpreted (BSL).
For ages 16+ | 7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15
Thursday 28
Elodie Harper: Boudicca's Daughter
Dive into a dazzling novel with the daughter of one of Britain's most powerful heroines at its heart.
For ages 16+ | 7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15
Friday 29
Nicola Sturgeon: Frankly
Scotland’s first female First Minister and former leader of the SNP shares her longawaited memoir. Speech-to-Text transcribed (STT).
For ages 16+ | 8pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £20
Family
Our events are not just for the grown-ups – bring your little ones along to splash in our fountain, visit our recycled playground and get dancing at free parties
Until Sunday 24
REPLAY: A Limitless Recycled Playground
Enter a world of play and invention in a recycled playground for children and their grown-ups.
Sensory Adapted and early years sessions are available.
For ages 6 months – 11 years | Various times; Spirit Level, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £7.50 (every adult and child needs a ticket)
Until Monday 25
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
Saturday 2 & Sunday 3
Ásrún Magnúsdóttir:
Listening Party
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Get ready to be moved as London teenagers dance to their favourite songs in this word-of-mouth hit by one of Iceland’s leading theatremakers. Relaxed Performance.
For ages 10+ | Sat 2 Aug, 2pm & 7pm; Sun 3 Aug, 2pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £14
Sunday 3
Tomorrow's Warriors
Extraordinary Summer
Showcase
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Catch live music from some of the finest young jazz musicians on London’s fizzing scene.
For all ages | 4pm – 7pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
Friday 15
Kinetika Bloco Summer Showcase: Joy in Motion
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Celebrate music and dance in this joyful concert presented by Kinetika Bloco’s summer school graduates.
For all ages | 7pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Friday 22
Mix & Move:
Carnival Ceilidh
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Dance along to a mix of ceilidh steps and street dance grooves at a summer edition of our welcoming dance workshops for everyone.
For all ages | 3pm – 5pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Make Yourself! Be Yourself!
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Spread joy and freedom on the dance floor with club-night pioneers Heart n Soul.
For all ages. After 9pm the content may be more suitable for adults | 6pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Monday 25
Fun DMC 10th Birthday
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Celebrate the end of summer and a landmark occasion for FUN DMC with a family-friendly block party.
For all ages | 12 noon – 2.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Performance & dance
Collaborative theatre, folkloric traditions and inclusive dance: discover international performance for all ages here in our venues
Saturday 2
Urban Ritual:
From Cuba to Brazil
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Afro-Cuban and Brazilian dance and music.
For all ages. After 9pm content may be more suitable for adults | 2pm – 10.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Saturday 2 & Sunday 3
Ásrún Magnúsdóttir: Listening Party
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Get ready to be moved as London teenagers dance to their favourite songs in this word-of-mouth hit by one of Iceland’s leading theatremakers. Relaxed Performance.
For ages 10+ | Sat 2 Aug, 2pm & 7pm; Sun 3 Aug, 2pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £14
Sunday 17
Move Like You: Sensory Safe Cypher
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Join us for an inclusive dance jam session, a space for chronically ill, disabled and neurodiverse dancers to educate, express and exchange with each other through movement and music.
For all ages | 12 noon – 3pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Move Like You with Rain Crew
Part of Dance Your Way Home
With categories open to all, workshops and DJ sets, this battle welcomes all types of dance and dancers.
For all ages | 1pm – 6pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Music
Whatever you’re into, join us for events showcasing sensational sounds from across the globe, including joyful summer concerts and free parties on our terrace
Friday 1
Babylon: Revisited with Jazz Jamaica
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Watch the classic film with live music, followed by a conversation with Dennis Bovell.
For ages 16+ | 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £18
Saturday 2
Urban Ritual:
From Cuba to Brazil
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Afro-Cuban and Brazilian dance and music.
For all ages. After 9pm content may be more suitable for adults | 2pm – 10.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Sunday 3
Grief Rave
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Welcome to the Grief Rave, a space to let go and dance out all intersections of loss.
For all ages; 1pm – 6m; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Tomorrow's Warriors
Extraordinary Summer Showcase
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Catch live music from some of the finest young jazz musicians on London’s fizzing scene.
For all ages | 4pm – 7pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
Thursday 7, 14 & 21
Our HeartBeats: Unity in Motion
Part of Dance Your Way Home
On Thursday evenings, join us on the terrace for global club sounds, community and celebration, in collaboration with Kensaye and Counterpoints Arts.
For all ages | Thu 31 Jul & Thu 7, Thu 14 & Thu 21 Aug; 6pm – 10pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Friday 8
Deptford Northern Soul Club & Friends
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Spin on down to an evening of Northern soul dancing and vinyl DJ sets on our terrace.
For all ages. After 9pm content may be more suitable for adults | 5.30pm – 10.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Bass in the Borough
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Wear your dancing shoes and meet us on the dance floor for Kinetika Bloco’s summer bonanza.
For ages 12+ | 7pm – 9.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Sunday 10
Femi Koleoso Presents Situation Dance
Part of Dance Your Way Home
The Ezra Collective bandleader brings his musical love letter to London here in a free party for all.
For all ages | 1pm – 7pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Friday 15
Kinetika Bloco Summer
Showcase: Joy in Motion
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Celebrate music and dance in this joyful concert presented by Kinetika Bloco’s summer school graduates.
For all ages | 7pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Saturday 16
Hooley in the Kitchen
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Everyone’s welcome at this energetic party with live music, dancing and good craic along the Thames.
For all ages. After 9pm the content may be more suitable for adults | 2pm – 10.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Friday 22
Mix & Move:
Carnival Ceilidh
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Dance along to a mix of ceilidh steps and street dance grooves at a summer edition of our welcoming dance workshops for everyone.
For all ages | 3pm – 5pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free Make Yourself! Be Yourself!
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Spread joy and freedom on the dance floor with club-night pioneers Heart n Soul.
For all ages. After 9pm the content may be more suitable for adults | 6pm – 10.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Terminal 1: Powered by Immigration
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Find pulsating beats, immersive visuals and a united dance floor at this dub vs cumbia night.
For ages 18+ only | 8.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Tickets from £14
Saturday 23
Bring the Dance You Have: Saturday
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Get down and bring your dance moves to our Riverside Terrace on this bank holiday weekend.
For all ages | 12 noon – 10.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Sunday 24
Bring the Dance You Have: Sunday
Part of Dance Your Way Home Dance displays and workshops on our Riverside Terrace fill the closing weekend of our joyful Dance Your Way Home series.
For all ages | 12 noon – 10.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Monday 25
History of Hip-Hop
Part of Dance Your Way Home
This isn’t just a party: join a living journey through the history of British club culture.
For all ages | 3pm – 7pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Thursday 28
Gustavo Dudamel & Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra
Almost a decade since last appearing on our stage, the celebrated orchestra marks its 50th birthday here with us. Gustavo Dudamel conductor Javier Perianes piano
Bernstein Overture, Candide; Falla Nights in the gardens of Spain for piano & orchestra; The Three-cornered Hat, Suite No.2; Bernstein Symphonic dances from West Side Story
For ages 7+ | 7pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £22
Friday 29
Simmer Down
Part of Open Doors
Get ready to feel the reggae rhythm at this free monthly meetup and daytime dance, designed for older adults and families.
For all ages | 1.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
HVYWGHT & The Outlook Orchestra: 20 Years of Dubstep
Part of Dance Your Way Home
Dance your way through the journey of dubstep, from its roots in Croydon to a global phenomenon.
For ages 14+. Under-14s must be accompanied by an adult | 7pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £27
Upcoming highlights
Classical Music: Autumn/Winter 2025/26
Join us for a new programme of classical music, filled with opportunities to experience, live in person, the full range of this powerful and moving art form.
September 2025 – January 2026
WE SHOULD HAVE NEVER WALKED ON THE MOON
Powerhouse dance companies
Rambert and (LA)HORDE Ballet national de Marseille transform our buildings with cinematic flair.
Wednesday 3 – Saturday 6 September
Suede Takeover
The indie giants showcase the charged energy of their live performances at gigs across our venues, marking the release of their tenth studio album.
Saturday 13 – Friday 19 September
Also coming soon
Ocean Vuong: The Emperor of Gladness
The poet and author discusses his big-hearted novel about chosen family, unexpected friendship and the stories we tell ourselves in order to survive.
Thursday 11 September
In Dreams –David Lynch Revisited
Be in the room for a landmark live tribute bringing the songs and music from the legendary director’s films to the stage.
Sunday 21 September
A 100 Year Revolution: The Harlem Renaissance
Trace the century-long cultural impact of the Harlem Renaissance across the Black diaspora at three events with Tomorrow’s Warriors.
Saturday 13 & Sunday 14 September
Rizwan-Muazzam Qawwali Group
The nephews – and living legacy – of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan bring majestic Qawwali music to the stage, taking Indian classical music to unexpected places.
Tuesday 30 September
Eat & explore
Time for a tropical break
You’re sitting under a colourful parasol, zingy drink in hand. Summer has well and truly arrived. Your destination? The Southbank Centre’s Riverside Terrace, where Las Iguanas serves up Latin American flavours and vibes, seven days a week – all a stone’s throw away from central London.
Get the gang together to explore the cocktail menu, which includes margaritas for days – from strawberry to spicy – signature sips like A Passionate Ting, and a variety of refreshing mocktails. Fuel the party with sharing boards loaded with wings, nachos and tacos. Let’s talk about the menu, a selection of sizzling Mexican and Southern American dishes. To start,
classic tapas like padron peppers sit alongside Brazilian pão de queijo (crispy, cheesy dough balls) and a choice of tacos. Follow up with flavour-bursting curries, stacked fajitas or burgers with a selection of Latin-inspired toppings.
And there's the legendary all-day bottomless brunch. Book your two-hour brunch slot and make the most of the tempting plates like quesadillas and burgers, plus a list of ten fabulous Las Iguanas cocktails to choose from. Sunshine in a glass.
Las Iguanas, Mandela Walk, Level 2; Mon – Fri, 11am – 11pm; Sat, 11am – 11.30pm; Sun, 11am – 10pm southbankcentre.co.uk/foodanddrink
Bring home a piece of Nara
The largest European retrospective to date of Yoshitomo Nara is on at our Hayward Gallery until Sunday 31 August. Once you’ve seen the captivating work of this celebrated artist in person, you’ll want to bring some of it home with you – and you can, with our exclusive merchandise designed for the show, available online and in the Hayward Gallery Shop. Nara has become globally recognised for his portraits of child-like figures with eyes that seem to challenge the viewer with their direct gaze. Our range features selected artworks including 1999’s iconic Missing in Action, 2011’s Can't Stop Thinking About It and the contemplative Little Thinker, created in 2021.
In our range, these powerful portraits emblazon T-shirts and bags, and playful kitchenware including mugs, coasters and water bottles. You can adorn your walls with mini-prints and exhibition posters, too. You can also find out more about Nara and his works in the exhibition catalogue. The lavish book includes more than 200 illustrations and an in-depth interview with Hayward Gallery Senior Curator Yung Ma. Essays by writers Yeewan Koon, Josh Kun and Barry Schwabsky trace the evolution of Nara's art, focusing in particular on his practice as a painter and his connection with popular music. shop.southbankcentre.co.uk
About the Southbank Centre
We’re the UK’s largest centre for the arts and one of the nation's top five visitor attractions, showcasing the world’s most exciting artists at our venues in the heart of London. As a charity, we bring millions of people together by opening up the unique art spaces that we care for.
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. We hope that you enjoy your visit – and if you need any information or help, please ask a member of staff. If you’d like to get in touch, our address is Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX, or email hello@southbankcentre.co.uk
While you’re
here
Eating, drinking and shopping? Take in the views over food and drinks at our on-site bars and cafes. In the Royal Festival Hall, find the Seventy5th Balcony Bar on Level 5, and the Festival Bar & Kitchen and Ballroom Cafe on Level 2. Discover our green haven, the Queen Elizabeth Hall Roof Garden, open for the summer. 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, Flat Iron, Foyles, Giraffe, Honest Burgers, La Gamba, Las Iguanas, 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 Friday – Sunday and bank holidays. Check our website for opening times.
Join and support
We have a range of Membership levels, with benefits including presales to all of our events, free entry to the Hayward Gallery, a Members’ Lounge and a discount on selected retailers and restaurants.
The Southbank Centre is a registered charity. We rely on support from kind individuals to help us deliver a vibrant programme that everyone can access. As a supporter, you can get closer to our work and see how your support makes a difference. For more details, visit our website. 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*
*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, and no booking fees for Hayward Gallery exhibition tickets.
Under-12s must be accompanied by an adult across our site. See our website for information about concessions.
Many of our ticket prices include a £2 restoration levy, enabling us to care for our historic buildings. Ticket prices may be adjusted without notice to reflect demand. See all of our ticket terms and conditions on the link below.
southbankcentre.co.uk/website-ticket-terms
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Access
London Waterloo
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
Subscribers to our email updates are the first to hear about new events, offers and competitions. Just head to our website to sign up. On the cover
As part of our series Dance Your Way Home, youth music charity Kinetika Bloco presents their spectacular summer showcase, Joy in Motion, on Friday 15 August. This annual event brings together 150 young people to celebrate the power of dance and music.
Image credits
On the cover: Kinetika Bloco © Pete Woodhead
Inside cover: Dance Your Way Home: Photo © Avelino Calvar Martinez
This month’s highlights: Yoshitomo Nara, Missing in Action, 1999. Courtesy of Sally and Ralph Tawil © Yoshitomo Nara, courtesy Yoshitomo Nara Foundation; Iris Colomb: Try! Try! Try! Again! © courtesy the artist; REPLAY: A Limitless Recycled Playground © Pete Woodhead; Out to the Dancers: Emma Warren © Camilla Greenwell; Gustavo Dudamel © Nohely Oliveros; HVYWGHT & The Outlook Orchestra: 20 Years of Dubstep © Rob Jones; Nicola Sturgeon: Frankly © Charlotte Hadden
Header images: Free events: Rain Crew © Will Hartley; Art & exhibitions: Installation view of Yoshitomo Nara. Photo: Mark Blower. Courtesy the artist and the Hayward Gallery; Literature & talks: Corbin Shaw © Flora Miles; Family: Heart n Soul DJs © Tim Mitchell; Performance & dance: Urban Ritual: From Havana to Bahia © courtesy the artist; Gigs: Babylon: Revisited with Jazz Jamaica © Tomorrow’s Warriors/Graeme Miall
Upcoming highlights: Classical music: Tai Murray, Sheku Kannah-Mason and Isata Kanneh-Mason © Chineke! Orchestra; WE SHOULD HAVE NEVER WALKED ON THE MOON © François Deladerriere; Ocean Vuong © Gioncarlo Valentine; Soweto Kinch © courtesy the artist; Suede Takeover © Dean Chalkley; In Dreams – David Lynch Revisited © Sara Amroussi-Gilissen; Rizwan-Muazzam Qawwali Group © Colin Moody
Eat & explore: Las Iguanas © Adam Luszniak; Yoshitomo Nara – Hayward Gallery Shop © Adam Luszniak
Listings correct at time of going to press (2025).
The Southbank Centre is a registered charity no. 298909
