DECEMBER
Welcome to the Southbank Centre
There’s a special kind of magic about the Southbank Centre over the festive season. The riverside lights up with the glowing artworks of our Winter Light exhibition and the return of our Winter Market. Join us for free events including high-energy dance workshop Five Go Jiving on Christmas Eve, and our daytime family party Kids’ Countdown with Just Vibez on New Year’s Eve.
Mark the season by seeing a show in our halls. Enjoy the glitter and glamour of Top Hat, featuring Irving Berlin earworms like ‘Cheek to Cheek’, and for a very different experience see Sh!t Theatre’s hilarious and powerful EVITA TOO. Families can join the fun at shows including Operation Ouch: Quest for the Jurassic Fart! and Bluey’s Big Play, featuring the world’s favourite puppy, back by popular demand. Beyond all the excitement in December, we’re also getting ready for our 75th anniversary celebrations – join us in 2026 for a packed programme that welcomes everyone to experience how the arts can shape our future.
Mark Ball
Artistic Director
The year in review
The Southbank Centre is a thriving home for shared creativity. We’re one of the UK’s most-loved attractions because we believe wholeheartedly that culture belongs to all. In that spirit, we launched Open Doors in autumn 2024: a regular free programme of creative activities in The Clore Ballroom. It’s gone from strength to strength, filling our foyer spaces with buzzing workshops and family sessions.
This year, our dedication to opening up access to the arts saw us launch Southbank Centre Presents, giving the next generation of cultural programmers and curators valuable experience; and our Youth Network, offering young people the chance to get involved. Our industry-leading skills development programme, Technical Academy, also welcomed its second cohort.
It’s been a thrilling year of innovative artistic programming. We launched our bold new multi-arts festival Multitudes, hosted the immersive, site-wide dance takeover WE SHOULD HAVE NEVER WALKED ON THE MOON, and captured the creative world of iconic Japanese artist Yoshitomo Nara in an exhibition at the Hayward Gallery.
There’s much more to come. In 2026, we mark our 75th anniversary with a forward-looking programme that takes inspiration from the optimistic spirit of the 1951 Festival of Britain, for which the Royal Festival Hall was built. We’re so looking forward to welcoming you for a joyful year of celebrations with something for everyone to enjoy.
Elaine Bedell Chief Executive
Winter wonders
The nights may be drawing in, but we’ve got plenty to brighten spirits this month
Whether it’s seeing the glitz and glamour of old Hollywood on the stage or taking part in a festive singalong, you’ll find all sorts of activities to spread cheer through December and beyond.
Bring the grandparents, little ones, friends and family from out of town, and fill your stockings with these winter crackers.
Spellbinding theatre and music
Dig out your glad rags – the classic film Top Hat dances from the silver screen onto our stage with an all-singing, all-dancing showstopper that’ll have you twirling and tap-dancing your way into the new year.
And you’re in for a tantalising treat with EVITA TOO, as Sh!t Theatre tells the story of Argentina’s first woman president via musical antics … and wizards?!
Belt out your favourite carols at Christmas Classics, and let the glorious chorus of Handel’s Messiah sweep you into the festive season. And for the romantics among us, nothing warms the heart like beloved folk singer Kate Rusby’s magical renditions of South Yorkshire carols and winter songs.
Spectacular family shows
On a quest to keep little ones entertained in the holidays? Take a trip back to the age of the dinosaurs and make pint-sized scientists roar with laughter at Operation Ouch: Quest for the Jurassic Fart!
Everyone’s favourite furry friends Bluey, Bingo, Bandit and Chilli also bound onto the stage in a live show with music and puppets – a funpacked introduction to the magic of theatre for young audiences.
A feast of free festive cheer
Find friends old and new at Creative Encounters, our creative space in the heart of the city, where this month we find a moment
of peace in the season as we mix up a warming cup of chai, and try our hand at clay modelling. Or warm up your vocal chords at our family singalong event Saturday Sessions: Singing Together, followed by an uplifting performance by Southbank Centre Youth Voices. Everyone’s invited to dance and be merry as we stamp up a snowstorm at Five Go Jiving on Christmas Eve, and shake a leg at an extraspecial end-of-year edition of our Mix & Move free dance sessions.
Plus, take in a free concert from Tomorrow’s Warriors, boasting some of the finest young jazz musicians on London’s fizzing scene right now, and see out the year (counting down to 12 noon) at globe-trotting get-down Kids' Countdown with Just Vibez
Winter wonderlands
Wander around our site to take in the incredible luminous artworks on display in our Winter Light outdoor exhibition, with artists using light and colour to brighten the dark evenings. And don’t forget to fill up on delicious winter fare, hot drinks and gifts galore at our magical Winter Market on the Queen’s Walk; our pop-up bars and street food stalls are foodie heaven.
Find a warm welcome
What December lacks in daylight, it more than makes up for in merriment around our site. Pop down to discover treats for all the family and share in the festive glow throughout the month.
See all the Winter events on our website
December highlights
Also this month...
ZRI: Schubert at the Red Hedgehog Tavern (Double Bill)
Schubert’s String Quintet in C is reimagined to sound as radical as when it was first written, followed by a lively late-night show.
Friday 5 December
Top Hat
Join us to sample the musical equivalent of the finest vintage champagne: a stage adaptation of the classic film, featuring sparkling music and dancing.
Friday 12 December – Saturday 17 January
Gilbert & George: 21ST CENTURY PICTURES
Discover the artists’ wildly creative, vibrant works from the past 25 years, with large-scale images that centre the human experience and reflect their motto, ‘Art for All’.
Called ‘a joyous embrace of modern life’ in a five-star review from The Guardian, this exhibition showcases Gilbert & George’s artistic journey. It highlights new pictures created since the start of the millennium, and explores themes of hope, fear, sex, religion, corruption and death. With bold, single-word titles, each piece delves into societal norms and taboos, spanning the mundane and the illicit. Their art challenges boundaries of taste and propriety.
Until Sunday 11 January
Find out more about the exhibition on our website
Sister Sledge Featuring Kathy Sledge
The heart of Sister Sledge is family: come and be part of the legacy as the group perform their hits from across the years and dance floors.
Friday 5 December
Christmas Classics
Joy to the world! Sing along to your favourite seasonal tunes at this heartwarming celebration of the most wonderful time of the year.
Saturday 13 & Sunday 14 December
Sh!t Theatre: EVITA TOO
Join the disco dictators as they tell the wild story of Isabel Perón, gogo-dancer-turnedpresident who led Argentina for 18 disastrous months.
Tuesday 9 – Wednesday 31 December
Bluey's Big Play
Back by popular demand, see Bluey, Bingo, Bandit and Chilli in a live show packed with music, laughter, brilliantly created puppets and fun for all the family.
Thursday 18 December – Sunday 11 January
Performance & dance
Sparkling stage shows, hilarious family adventures and classic comedy: discover international performance for all ages here in our venues
Tuesday 2
I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue
Get ready for side-splitting inspired nonsense with a panel of top comedians in the live BBC Radio 4 show, chaired by Jack Dee.
For ages 14+. Under-18s must be accompanied by an adult | 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £20
Tuesday 9 – Wednesday 31
Sh!t Theatre: EVITA TOO
Discover the wild story of a gogo-dancer-turned-president who led Argentina for 18 disastrous months. Captioned: Thu 18 Dec, 7.45pm. Relaxed Performance: Thu 30 Dec, 7.45pm.
For ages 15+ | Various times; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £30 Post-show talk: Wed 17 Dec
From Friday 12
Top Hat
Sample the musical equivalent of the finest vintage champagne: a stage adaptation of the classic film, featuring sparkling music and dancing. British Sign Language interpreted (BSL) and Audio
Described: Wed 17 Dec at 2pm & Thu 8 Jan at 7.30pm. Captioned: Sun 28 Dec at 2pm & Thu 15 Jan at 7.30pm. Relaxed Performance: Sun 11 Jan at 2pm.
For ages 8+ | Until Sat 17 Jan; Various times; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £27
From Thursday 18
Bluey's Big Play
Bluey, Bingo, Bandit and Chilli return to our stage in a live show packed with music, laughter and fun. Audio Description is available. British Sign Language interpreted (BSL) and Touch Tour available: Sun 21 Dec at 4.30pm & Tue 6 Jan at 10.30am. Relaxed Performances: Tue 23 Dec at 4.30pm & Thu 8 Jan at 10.30am.
For all ages | Until Sun 11 Jan; Various times; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £17
From Monday 22
Operation Ouch: Quest for the Jurassic Fart!
Join TV’s favourite doctors on a dino-mite adventure to unearth the most important fart in history. Relaxed Performance: Fri 2 Jan at 11am. British Sign Language interpreted (BSL): Fri 2 Jan at 2pm. For ages 5+ | Until Fri 2 Jan; Various times; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £24
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 3
Mahan Esfahani: Byrd, Dowland & Gibbons
A radical figurehead for the harpsichord brings to life beguiling music from the English Renaissance.
Mahan Esfahani harpsichord
Byrd O Mistress mine; Fortune; Ut, re, mi, fa, sol, la; Tomkins Barafostus Dreame; Pavan; Worster braules; Dowland Can she excuse my wrongs arr. William Randall; Gibbons The hunt's up (Peascod time); G Farnaby Farmer's Paven; Why aske You; Up tails all; Bull Salvator mundi; Walsingham; In Nomine; Tisdale The leaves bee greene 7pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £17
Friday 5
ZRI: Schubert at the Red Hedgehog Tavern (Double Bill)
ZRI reimagines Schubert’s String Quintet in C to sound as radical as when it was first written.
Zum Rotten Igel (ZRI):
Max Baillie violin
Matthew Sharp cello
Ben Harlan clarinet
Jon Banks accordion
Iris Pissaride santour (hammered dulcimer)
Schubert String Quintet in C, D.956 rescored to include clarinet, santour & accordion and interleaved with traditional tunes
9pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £22 for entry to both shows (including After Dark, below)
After Dark: ZRI –Cellar Sessions
Get ready for a lively show blurring folk with classical, inspired by a 19th-century Viennese tavern.
Max Baillie violin
Matthew Sharp cello
Ben Harlan clarinet
Jon Banks accordion
Iris Pissaride santour
10.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Tickets from £12 for entry to this show only
Sunday 7
Claire M Singer x LCO: Gleann Ciùin
Discover the timeless sound of Claire M Singer’s Gaelic-inspired compositions.
London Contemporary Orchestra
Claire M Singer organ
Claire M Singer Solas; Diobaig; Forrig; Fairge; Ode to Saor; gleann ciùin
7pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £17
Friday 12
Handel's Messiah
This celebrated choral masterpiece promises a night of musical brilliance and festive splendour.
Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment
Eamonn Dougan conductor
Rowan Pierce soprano
Jess Dandy contralto
Robert Murray tenor
Dingle Yandell bass-baritone
Philharmonia Chorus
Handel Messiah
7pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £32
Saturday 13 & Sunday 14
Christmas Classics
Join us for a show of festive fun and sing along to beloved carols and the biggest Christmas hits.
London Philharmonic Orchestra
Michael England conductor
Vanessa Haynes singer
London Philharmonic Choir (13 Dec)
Philharmonia Chorus (14 Dec)
London Youth Choirs
YolanDa Brown presenter
For all ages | Sat 13 Dec, 3pm & 7.30pm; Sun 14 Dec, 1pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £32
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.
Family
Our events are not just for the grown-ups –bring your little ones along to join in the sparkle and wonder of the festive season
Friday 5
Rug Rhymes: Autumn
National Poetry Library puppets
Federico and Firebird love to share their favourite poems – come and join the fun.
For ages 0 – 5 | 11am; National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £4 (admits one adult and one child)
Simmer Down
Part of Open Doors
Get ready to feel the reggae rhythm at this free monthly meetup and daytime dance, great for older adults and parents with young children.
For all ages | 1.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Saturday 6
Relaxed Sessions: Singing Together
Part of Open Doors
Join us for an inclusive version of our Saturday Sessions (see following event), for families who may benefit from a smaller group and adapted space. Relaxed event.
For ages 5+ | 11am; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free, but ticketed
Saturday Sessions: Singing Together
Part of Open Doors
Join us for a workshop to warm up the vocal chords and learn the power of group singing with choir leaders. Relaxed event.
For ages 5 – 11 | 1.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Southbank Centre Youth Voices Winter Showcase
Part of Open Doors
After our Saturday Sessions, come to sing along with our choir and be immersed in uplifting music.
For all ages | 3pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Friday 12
WordPlay: Ages 0 – 2
Part of Open Doors
Join us in a playful, squishy space for beautiful music, created and performed by songwriter and musician Emma-Lee Moss for you and your baby to enjoy together. Relaxed event.
For ages 0 – 2 | 10.30am – 11.10am; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
WordPlay: Ages 3 – 5
Part of Open Doors
Every fortnight, enjoy beautiful new songs and live music. This session is for ages 3 – 5, or for families with children across both age groups. Relaxed event.
For ages 3 – 5 | 11.30am – 12.15pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
From Thursday 18
Bluey's Big Play
Bluey, Bingo, Bandit and Chilli return to our stage in a live show packed with music, laughter and fun. Audio Description is available. British Sign Language interpreted (BSL) and Touch Tour available: Sun 21 Dec at 4.30pm & Tue 6 Jan at 10.30am. Relaxed Performances: Tue 23 Dec at 4.30pm & Thu 8 Jan at 10.30am.
For all ages | Until Sun 11 Jan; Various times; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £17
From Monday 22
Operation Ouch: Quest for the Jurassic Fart!
Join TV’s favourite doctors on a dino-mite adventure to unearth the most important fart in history. Relaxed Performance: Fri 2 Jan at 11am. British Sign Language interpreted (BSL): Fri 2 Jan at 2pm.
For ages 5+ | Until Fri 2 Jan; Various times; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £24
Wednesday 31
Kids' Countdown with Just Vibez
Start your family’s New Year celebrations early as Just Vibez takes you to the Caribbean, around the globe and back for some NYE daytime fun!
For all ages | 10.30am – 12.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Give a year of unlimited Hayward Gallery entry, priority booking, discounts here and nearby, and no booking fees with a Gift Membership for £80 a year. Add on ticket offers, guest entry to the Hayward Gallery and access to the Members’ Lounge with Membership Plus for £110 a year.
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
Gilbert & George: 21ST CENTURY PICTURES
Discover the artists' pictures from the past 25 years at our five-star exhibition, featuring vibrant, large-scale images that centre the human experience and reflect their motto, ‘Art for All’.
Until Sun 11 Jan; Tue – Fri & Sun, 10am – 6pm; Sat, 10am – 8pm (closed Mon); Hayward Gallery; Tickets £20 (free to Members; concessions available)
Val Lee: The Presence of Solitude
Take in a multidisciplinary exhibition from the Taiwanese artist, exploring isolation, intimacy and hope.
Until Sun 11 Jan; Tue – Fri & Sun, 10am – 6pm; Sat, 10am – 8pm (closed Mon); HENI Project Space, Hayward Gallery; Free
Winter
Light
Over the dark winter nights, our site is illuminated by free outdoor artworks, created by 12 artists, that play with light and colour.
Until Sun 18 Jan; Daily; Across the site; Free
Iris Colomb: Try! Try! Try! Again!
Find daring poetic experiments in this exhibition merging 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
Nicola
Tyson:
Their Jumpers
Opposite the entrance to the Hayward Gallery, discover this commission featuring a painting by the British artist.
Daily; Queen Elizabeth Hall Wall, Hayward Gallery Side; Free
Teresa
Solar
Abboud: Mother Tongue
A new bronze sculpture features two intertwined tongues forming a dancing figure that explores motherhood and cultural identity.
Daily; Hayward Gallery Terrace; Free
Bharti Kher: Target Queen
On the exterior of the Hayward Gallery, a colourful artwork celebrates the bindi at super scale.
Daily; Hayward Gallery Wall, Belvedere Road Side; Free
Klaus Weber: Thinking Fountains
An outdoor sculpture commission featuring two bronze figures creates a sense of passage.
Daily; Hayward Gallery Terrace; Free
Until Sunday 14
Koestler Arts: Night Owls and Abstractions
Explore an exhibition showcasing the artistic range and talent of people in criminal justice settings.
Tue, Wed & Fri – Sun, 10am – 8pm; Thu, 10am – 5pm (closed Mon); Spirit Level, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Tuesday 2
Supporters’ Tours: Gilbert & George
Our Supporters Circles and Patrons can gain unparalleled insight into Gilbert & George's artistic journey.
6.30pm; Dan Graham Waterloo Sunset Pavilion, Hayward Gallery; Free (Supporters Circles and Patrons only)
Saturday 6
British Sign Language Tours: Gilbert & George
Join us for a BSL tour as artist Rubbena Aurangzeb-Tariq leads you through the exhibition's themes and inspirations.
5pm; Hayward Gallery; Tickets from £8
Winter Light
UNTIL SUN 18 JAN
1 Rafaël Rozendaal, Twist (2024)
2 Lee Broom, Beacon (2025)
3 France-Lise McGurn, Hysteric Grammar (2025); Max Citrus, Silk Cut (both 2024)
4 Nathaniel Rackowe, Desire Lines (2024)
5 Squire & Partners, Winter Windows (2023 – 2024)
6 Liz West, Hymn to the Big Wheel (2021)
7 Samia Halaby, Lighthouse (1993 – 2025)
8 Otecki, 100seeds, Sap Circulation, Harmonia Mundi Panorama, Nocturn (all 2025)
9 Tavares Strachan, You Belong Here (2024)
10 Jakob Kvist, Dichroic Sphere (2022)
11 David Batchelor, Sixty Minute Spectrum (2017)
Gigs
Whatever you’re into, join us for gigs showcasing sensational sounds from across the globe, including shows from musical legends and up-and-coming artists
Thursday 4
futuretense: JoeJas + RetroPxssy
These artists can’t be contained: feel the creativity spilling out of the lines in a free gig.
For all ages | 6pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
Friday 5
The Vernon Spring
Catch the musician’s ethereal piano work layered with emotive vocals and subtle electronics.
For ages 14+. Under-14s must be accompanied by an adult | 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £22
Sister Sledge Featuring Kathy Sledge
Come and be part of the family legacy as the group perform their hits from across the years.
For ages 14+. Under-14s must be accompanied by an adult | 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £37
Saturday 6 Stereolab
The legendary avant-pop band takes us through their kaleidoscopic catalogue.
For ages 14+. Under-14s must be accompanied by an adult | 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £34.50
Sunday 7
Kate Rusby: Christmas Is Merry Tour
Come and feel the festive joy at an enchanting concert from the ‘Barnsley Nightingale’.
For ages 14+. Under-18s must be accompanied by an adult | 6pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £40
Thursday 11
futuretense: GESELLE + KeepVibesNear
Soak up influences from two rising star musicians playing jazz- and R&B-inspired music.
For all ages | 6pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
Robert Plant's Saving Grace
The English singer-songwriter and founding member of Led Zeppelin presents his new album.
For ages 14+. Under-18s must be accompanied by an adult | 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £51.50
Sunday 14
Tomorrow's Warriors Extraordinary Winter Showcase
Catch live music from some of the finest young jazz musicians on London’s fizzing scene right now.
For all ages | 5pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
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
Throughout the month
Iris Colomb: Try! Try! Try! Again!
Find daring poetic experiments in this exhibition merging 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
Wednesday 3
Special Edition:
Red Bean Poetry
Prize-winning poets of Asian heritage read from their latest work, exploring the meaning of art.
For ages 16+ | 8pm; National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £9
Thursday 4
The Orwell Lecture
2025: Steven Pinker
Experimental cognitive psychologist and bestselling
author Steven Pinker delivers this year’s Orwell Memorial Lecture. Speech-to-Text transcribed.
For ages 16+ | 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £20
Stadio Live
Join Ryan Hunn and Musa Okwonga for a live edition of Stadio: A Football Podcast, as they dive into the beautiful game.
For ages 16+ | 7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15
Friday 5
Rug Rhymes: Autumn
National Poetry Library puppets Federico and Firebird love to share their favourite poems – come and join the fun.
For ages 0 – 5 | 11am; National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £4 (admits one adult and one child)
Friday 12
WordPlay: Ages 0 – 2
Part of Open Doors
Join us in a playful, squishy space for beautiful music, created and performed by songwriter and musician Emma-Lee Moss for you and your baby to enjoy together. Relaxed event.
For ages 0 – 2 | 10.30am – 11.10am; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
WordPlay: Ages 3 – 5
Part of Open Doors
Every fortnight, enjoy beautiful new songs and live music at our WordPlay sessions. This session is for ages 3 – 5, or for families with children across both age groups. Relaxed event.
For ages 3 – 5 | 11.30am – 12.15pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Free events
There's lots to see and do here for free this month, including chances to get creative and meet new people at events in our Open Doors programme
Throughout the month
Val Lee: The Presence of Solitude
Take in a multidisciplinary exhibition from the Taiwanese artist, exploring isolation, intimacy and hope.
Until Sun 11 Jan; Tue – Fri & Sun, 10am – 6pm; Sat, 10am – 8pm (closed Mon); HENI Project Space, Hayward Gallery; Free Winter Light
Over the dark winter nights, our site is illuminated by free outdoor artworks, created by 12 artists, that play with light and colour.
Until Sun 18 Jan; Daily; Across the site; Free
Iris Colomb: Try! Try! Try! Again!
Find daring poetic experiments in this exhibition merging 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
Nicola Tyson: Their Jumpers
Opposite the entrance to the Hayward Gallery, discover this commission featuring a painting by the British artist.
Daily; Queen Elizabeth Hall Wall, Hayward Gallery Side; Free
Teresa Solar Abboud: Mother Tongue
A new bronze sculpture features two intertwined tongues forming a dancing figure that explores motherhood and cultural identity.
Daily; Hayward Gallery Terrace; Free Bharti Kher: Target Queen
On the exterior of the Hayward Gallery, a colourful artwork celebrates the bindi at super scale.
Daily; Hayward Gallery Wall, Belvedere Road Side; Free
Klaus Weber: Thinking Fountains
An outdoor sculpture commission featuring two bronze figures creates a sense of passage.
Daily; Hayward Gallery Terrace; Free
Until Sunday 14
Koestler Arts: Night Owls and Abstractions
Explore an exhibition showcasing the artistic range and talent of people in criminal justice settings.
Tue, Wed & Fri – Sun, 10am – 8pm; Thu, 10am – 5pm (closed Mon); Spirit Level, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Thursday 4
futuretense:
JoeJas + RetroPxssy
These artists can’t be contained: feel the creativity spilling out of the lines in a free gig.
For all ages | 6pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
Friday 5
Simmer Down
Part of Open Doors
Get ready to feel the reggae rhythm at this free monthly meetup and daytime dance, great for older adults and parents with young children.
For all ages | 1.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Saturday 6
Relaxed Sessions: Singing Together
Part of Open Doors
Join us for an inclusive version of our Saturday Sessions (see below), for families who may benefit from a smaller group and an adapted space. Relaxed event.
For ages 5+ | 11am; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free, but ticketed
Saturday Sessions: Singing Together
Part of Open Doors
Join us for a workshop to warm up the vocal chords and learn the power of group singing with choir leaders. Relaxed event.
For ages 5 – 11 | 1.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Southbank Centre Youth Voices Winter Showcase
Part of Open Doors
After our Saturday Sessions, come to sing along with our choir and be immersed in uplifting music.
For all ages | 3pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Wednesday 10
Creative Encounters: Spice-Blending Stories
Part of Open Doors
Warm up with Winter Warmer Chai and create your own spice blends to take home in this festive, sensory evening. British Sign Language interpreted (BSL).
For ages 12+ | 6pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Thursday 11
futuretense: GESELLE + KeepVibesNear
Soak up influences from two rising star musicians playing jazz- and R&B-inspired music.
For all ages | 6pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
Friday 12
WordPlay: Ages 0 – 2
Part of Open Doors
Join us in a playful, squishy space for beautiful music, created and performed by songwriter and musician Emma-Lee Moss for you and your baby to enjoy together. Relaxed event.
For ages 0 – 2 | 10.30am – 11.10am; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
WordPlay: Ages 3 – 5
Part of Open Doors
Every fortnight, enjoy beautiful new songs and live music at our WordPlay sessions. This session is for ages 3 – 5, or for families with children across both age groups. Relaxed event.
For ages 3 – 5 | 11.30am – 12.15pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Sunday 14
Tomorrow's Warriors
Extraordinary Winter Showcase
Catch live music from some of the finest young jazz musicians on London’s fizzing scene right now.
For all ages | 5pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Wednesday 17
Creative Encounters: Mingle & Mould
Part of Open Doors
Find a chilled space for making and some mingling at a clay pinchpot workshop.
For ages 12+ | 6pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Friday 19
Mix & Move: Winter Special
Part of Open Doors
Join our resident dancers Natasha Khamjani and Damien Anyasi for an extra special end-of-year dance with live band.
For all ages | 3pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Wednesday 24
Five Go Jiving
Get your dancing shoes on and kick off your festive season with a free jive extravaganza.
For all ages | 1.30pm – 4.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Wednesday 31
Kids' Countdown with Just Vibez
Start your family’s New Year celebrations early as Just Vibez takes you to the Caribbean, around the globe and back for some NYE daytime fun!
For all ages | 10.30am – 12.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Upcoming highlights
New Year’s Day
Ceilidh
Join London’s most radical and vivacious ceilidh band, the Ceilidh Liberation Front, at a free party to kick off 2026 and the Southbank Centre’s 75th year with dancing for all.
Thursday 1 January
Sean Shibe: Forgotten Dances – Lute & Guitars
The guitarist guides us through three spaces within the Queen Elizabeth Hall in a journey through forgotten works for lute, classical guitar and electric guitar.
Saturday 10 January
TS Eliot Prize Shortlist Readings
Hear the best new poetry coming out of the UK and Ireland, read by the ten shortlisted poets for this year’s prize, in an event hosted by poet Ian McMillan.
Sunday 18 January
Also coming soon
REPLAY: A Limitless Recycled Playground
Enter a world of play and invention at our colourful recycled playground for children and their grown-ups, returning in January.
Wednesday 14 January – Sunday 12 April
Mahler’s Tenth
The London Philharmonic Orchestra presents Mahler’s final symphony, a huge, impassioned mediation on life, death and all that lies between.
Saturday 24 January
Out-Spoken: January
Discover emerging and internationally acclaimed artists at an evening of exceptional poetry and music hosted by poet and author Joelle Taylor.
Thursday 15 January
Adam Kammerling: Seder
A storytelling experience and a ritual for now, asking what survival means in confronting times, and how we pass it on.
Thursday 29 January
Eat & explore
Winter Market
Jingle all the way down to the Thames riverside to visit our Winter Market, here until Sunday 4 January. In Alpine-style chalets along the Queen’s Walk, find street food stalls, pop-up bars and independent craft traders, all covered by a canopy of twinkling lights.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite browsing for gifts, tuck into belly-warmers like gourmet burgers, bold spiced dumplings and baked chicken wings, and
sweet treats including fresh churros, melt-in-themouth cookies and fluffy pancakes. Our five market bars are also on hand with mulled drinks aplenty. Beyond the market, find food and drink pop-ups featuring fire pits, lively Bavarian singalongs and fantastically festive cocktails. ’Tis the season!
southbankcentre.co.uk/winter
Southbank Centre Shop
Struggling to find the perfect gift? Look no further. Our shops are bursting with all things merry and bright, including art-inspired homeware and accessories, beautiful books to curl up with and more baubles than you can shake a candy cane at.
We've got three shops on our site – including our dedicated Hayward Gallery shop – but everything’s available in our online shop, too, with a free Click &
For the art lovers
If you’ve got an avid gallerygoer in your life, we’ve got you covered. Browse books, prints and accessories to bring some artful ambience into every home
Collect option available from our Mandela Walk shop. Check our website for more details of locations and opening hours.
And remember, when you shop with us, every purchase helps to support our arts programme, championing emerging talents and renowned creatives.
shop.southbankcentre.co.uk
For the tree
Deck the halls with glorious baubles, from felt frogs to glittery guitars, gingerbread folk to velvet bows. These decorations will shine year after year.
For the trendsetters
Treat a loved one (or yourself) to gorgeous accessories that capture the bold, contemporary spirit of the Southbank Centre.
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, now open for the winter. 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 – find it on Southbank Centre Square, Belvedere Road, every weekend. The market closes after Sun 21 Dec, reopening on Fri 30 Jan. 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
Please check our website for opening times before travelling to our venues over the holiday period.
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
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
Magic’s in the air at Top Hat, a stage adaptation of the classic film with Irving Berlin’s irresistible score, including some of Hollywood’s greatest songs. A heady romantic cocktail, laced with sparklingly witty dialogue, stunning choreography, lavish sets and gorgeous costumes, Top Hat is here Friday 12 December – Saturday 17 January.
Image credits
On the cover: Top Hat © Johan Persson
Inside cover: Winter Market © Adam Luszniak
This month’s highlights: Installation view of Gilbert & George: 21ST CENTURY PICTURES, REST (2019). Photo: Mark Blower. Courtesy of the Hayward Gallery; ZRI: Schubert at the Red Hedgehog Tavern (Double Bill) © Liv Øvland; Sister Sledge Featuring Kathy Sledge © courtesy the artist; Sh!t Theatre: EVITA TOO © Christa Holka; Top Hat © Johan Persson; Christmas Classics © Andy Paradise; Bluey's Big Play © courtesy of Dressing Room 5
Header images: Performance & dance: Operation Ouch: Quest for the Jurassic Fart! © Operation Ouch; Classical music: Claire M Singer x LCO: Gleann Ciùin © Hemingway Tallieu Stanley; Family: WordPlay © Belinda Lawley; Art & exhibitions: Winter Light : Beacon
Lee Broom, 2025. Image credit: Luke Haye; Gigs: KeepVibesNear © courtesy the artist;
Literature & talks: Special Edition: Red Bean Poetry – Erica Hesketh © Christy Ku; Free events: Creative Encounters: Mingle & Mould © Pete Woodhead
Upcoming highlights: New Year’s Day Ceilidh © Ollie Denton; Sean Shibe © photo by Kaupo Kikkas; Out-Spoken: January © Out-Spoken; TS Eliot Prize Shortlist Readings © Herbert Vandyk; Mahler’s Tenth: Vladimir Jurowski © Simon Pauly; Adam Kammerling: Seder © courtesy the artist; REPLAY: A Limitless Recycled Playground © Pete Woodhead
Eat & explore: Winter Market © Adam Luszniak; Southbank Centre Shop © Cesare De Giglio, product images © Adam Luszniak
Listings correct at time of going to press (2025).
The Southbank Centre is a registered charity no. 298909
