MAY
Welcome to the Southbank Centre
The Southbank Centre is a home for all, and we’re passionate about creating a programme that reflects the dazzling diversity of London’s communities and cultures. We have our own rich history of championing South Asian music, and this month our South Asian Sounds series returns for its second edition, welcoming a range of renowned artists and emerging voices inspired by the musical traditions of India and Pakistan.
Over May half-term, our Spring Family Fun programme showcases family favourites the Moomins, and presents an exciting new children’s production, The Vanishing Elephant We’re proud to be a place where families come together to get creative and make memories –and the Moominhouse is not something you see every day on the Thames riverside. And in an explosive dance collaboration, UK
dance company Rambert joins forces with (LA)HORDE, the French dance collective everyone is talking about, for the very first time. A mixed bill of three works, Bring Your Own includes the world premiere of a brand new piece created especially for Rambert by (LA)HORDE. Sparks will fly.
Mark Ball
Artistic Director, Southbank Centre
Thursday 15 – Sunday 18 May
South Asian Sounds
A series of unforgettable concerts comes to our stages, celebrating contemporary and classical music from India and Pakistan
Returning for the second year, the series brings together some of the biggest names in South Asian music with cutting-edge new voices and cross-genre collaborations, showcasing the rich legacy of South Asian musical traditions.
Journey through sound
Take a sonic tour of several of India’s states, from the rich rhythms of Bhangra and traditional Punjabi music – performed by chart-topping vocalist Jaz Dhami and composer Sumeet Chopra – to Gujarat’s folk traditions, with a performance from soulful singer Osman Mir and Third Culture Collective that melds traditional music with a Western classical orchestra.
Awaken your senses
Tap into new ways of experiencing music, as Indian multi-instrumentalist and composer Baluji Shrivastav OBE leads two performances over two days, sharing the stage first with his band Re-Orient, presenting a kaleidoscope of Latin, Indian and jazz music, and then with Inner Vision Quartet, an ensemble of blind musicians who showcase true mastery of Indian traditional instruments.
Musical cultures converge
Western and Indian music find a common groove as sitar player Roopa Panesar plays music from her deeply personal album ATMA alongside some of the finest Indian classical and jazz musicians in the UK today. She weaves together sounds and influences from different parts of the world, with instruments including double bass, guitar, sitar and tabla.
Experience world-firsts
Continuing to blur the lines between Indian and Western classical music, composer Rushil Ranjan’s new choral work, which explores the importance of vocal music to spiritual practices around the world, has its world premiere by the National Youth Choir and leading UK-based Indian classical artists.
Sound meets art
Visuals, performance and music collide in a new project from musician and artist Aditya Prakash. Exploring the history of Asian immigration with Karnatik classical music, video projection and stories, this piece of gig-theatre invites us to reflect on our own stories of belonging.
From the modern to the ancient New talent kicks off the proceedings, as a special edition of our regular free gig series, futuretense, showcases Saloni and 916, two rising-star acts bridging British and SouthAsian cultures and musical styles, from hiphop to Bollywood.
Closing the festival, the nephews – and living legacy – of the legendary singer Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan bring to the stage the majestic Qawwali music that’s been part of their family tradition for centuries.
Come along for sweeping storytelling from diverse traditions, world-class musicians and ensembles taking Indian classical music to unexpected places, and rhythmic melodies that you can’t help but tap a toe to.
For the full line-up, head to our website
May highlights
Also this month...
Randall Goosby & Zhu Wang: Bologne & Schubert
The internationally acclaimed young violin and piano duo delve into the seductively gorgeous music of French Romanticism.
Sun 11 May
Moomin 80
As part of our Spring Family Fun series, celebrate 80 years of the Moomins with free events that embrace the inclusive and welcoming messages at the heart of Tove Jansson’s beloved stories.
Tuesday 27 May – Sunday 1 June
Rambert x (LA)HORDE: Bring Your Own
We’re crashing an after-party; you coming? In this epic collaboration with (LA)HORDE, Rambert dancers bring their full selves to the French company’s work in a mixed bill of three short pieces, including Hop(e)storm, a new work commissioned exclusively for Rambert. Bring Your Own is gritty, sensual and fiercely real. Will you dive into the chaos or shy away? Will you feel everything, and maybe nothing, all at once?
Drenched in neon lights and inspired by the LA club scene, Weather Is Sweet catapults us into some of the most pressing questions over intimacy, consent and sex-positivity.
Visceral and punchy, A Room with a View forces us to look in the mirror and ask: what do I care about?
Wednesday 7 – Saturday 10 May
Find out more and book on our website
International Booker Prize Shortlist Readings
Join the six authors and their translators shortlisted for this year’s prize as they read from and discuss their books.
Sunday 18 May
The Vanishing Elephant
Join an elephant and a boy in a story of friendship, belonging and an incredible journey from Bengal to Broadway, told through theatre and puppetry.
Thursday 29 May – Sunday 1 June
Opera North: Verdi’s Simon Boccanegra
Experience Opera North up close in this concert performance of a rare Verdi masterpiece that bristles with high emotion and political intrigue.
Saturday 24 May
Norman Jay's Good Times Band
The legendary DJ and co-founder of the Good Times Sound System returns to spread good vibes with his funk, disco and soul mixes, and Natasha Watts and Omar.
Friday 30 May
Gigs
Whatever you’re into, join us for gigs showcasing sensational sounds from across the globe, including performances as part of South Asian Sounds
Friday 2
Kailash Kher & Kailasa Live
The soul-stirring singer brings his iconic voice and songs inspired by Sufi and Indian folk music to the stage.
For ages 7+ | 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £47
Saturday 3 & Sunday 4
Kruder & Dorfmeister: The K&D Sessions
Join the celebrations for the 25th anniversary of the remix duo’s compilation album, The K&D Sessions
For ages 14+. Under-14s must be accompanied by an adult. | Sat 3 May, 8.30pm & Sun 4 May, 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £37
Thursday 8
futuretense: Rita Kamale + Lydia Lutudi
Tune into the sounds of the future with groove-driven rhythms from a musical force of nature, at this edition of our free fortnightly gig series.
For ages 14+ | 6pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
Friday 9
Jesús Aguaje Ramos & His B.V. Orchestra
Celebrate the legacy of the legendary Buena Vista Social Club with a concert of their greatest hits.
Jesús `Aguaje' Ramos conductor, trombone
Lorena Lazara Ramos Diaz trombone, vocals
Aldo Isidro Miranda Alvarez vocals Geidi Chapman guitar, vocals
Emilio Senón Morales Ruiz piano Fabían Garcia double bass
Antonia Remigo Rubio Borayo percussion, timbal
Luis `Betun' Mariano Valiente Marin bongo, congas
Rogelio Ricardo Oliva Orelly master of ceremonies, vocals
For ages 14+. Under-14s must be accompanied by an adult. | 8pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £40
Thursday 15
futuretense: Saloni + 916
Part of South Asian Sounds
Two rising-star acts bridge British and South-Asian cultures and music, from hip-hop to Bollywood, at this edition of our free fortnightly gig series.
For all ages | 6pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
Baluji Shrivastav & Re-Orient
Part of South Asian Sounds
The sitar player and his band present a kaleidoscope of Latin, Indian and jazz music.
For all ages | 7.30pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £17
Friday 16
BAM! Jaz Dhami x Sumeet Chopra
Part of South Asian Sounds
Explore the richness of Bhangra music with the composer and vocalist, and friends.
For all ages | 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £21
Baluji Shrivastav & Inner Vision Quartet
Part of South Asian Sounds
Four talented blind musicians come together under the direction of the composer.
Baluji Shrivastav multiinstrumentalist
Yousuf Ali Khan tabla Uttara Joshi vocals
Ghow Ratnarajah kanjira, vocals
Thuy Mallalieu flute, keyboards
For all ages | 8pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £19
Saturday 17
Osman Mir & Third Culture Collective
Part of South Asian Sounds
Celebrate Gujarat folk traditions as Gujarati music is reimagined with a western classical orchestra.
Third Culture Collective Orchestra
Kavi Pau conductor
Osman Mir singer
Aamir Mir singer
For all ages | 7pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £32
Roopa Panesar’s ATMA (The Soul)
Part of South Asian Sounds
The sitar player plays music from her album ATMA, alongside some of the finest Indian classical and jazz musicians in the UK today.
Roopa Panesar sitar
Shahbaz Hussain tabla
Bangalore Prakash ghatam, morsing (indian jews harp), mridangam
Giuliano Modarelli guitar
Camilo Tirado live electronics, textural percussion
Surdarshan Chana jori
Ben Hazleton double bass
For all ages | 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £17
Aditya Prakash:
ROOM-i-Nation
Part of South Asian Sounds
A new piece of gig theatre from the musician explores stories of immigration and belonging.
For ages 12+ | 8pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £18
Sunday 18
Rushil Ranjan & National Youth Choir
Part of South Asian Sounds
Hear a new choral work blurring the lines between Indian and Western classical music.
For all ages | 6.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £27
Rizwan-Muazzam Qawwali Group
Part of South Asian Sounds Experience majestic Qawwali music from the nephews of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.
For all ages | 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £27
Wednesday 28
The Swell Season: Glen Hansard & Markéta Irglová
The duo behind the beloved soundtrack of 2007 film Once return to perform music from their shared project.
For ages 14+ | 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £35
Friday 30
Norman Jay's Good Times Band
The legendary DJ and co-founder of the Good Times Sound System returns to spread good vibes, with guests Natasha Watts and Omar.
For ages 14+ | 7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £27
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 Future Exhibition
Makers: The People's Exhibition
Get new perspectives on the legacy of the 1951 festival in a free display created by 15 young people.
Until Fri 28 Nov; Mon & Tue, 10am – 6pm; Wed – Sun, 10am – 11pm; Archive Studio, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Bharti Kher: Target Queen
On the exterior of the Hayward Gallery, a colourful new artwork celebrates the bindi at super scale.
Daily; Hayward Gallery Wall, Belvedere Road Side; Free
Until Monday 5
Linder: Danger Came Smiling
Linder’s first London retrospective showcases 50 years of the pioneering feminist artist’s work, dissecting our fascination with the body and its representation.
Tue – Fri & Sun, 10am – 6pm; Sat, 10am –8pm (closed Mon); Hayward Gallery; Tickets £19 (free to Members; concessions available); includes entry to Mickalene Thomas: All About Love
Mickalene Thomas: All About Love
Mickalene Thomas’ vibrant, large-scale portraits of Black women at rest reclaim space and representation in art history, celebrating love and radical repose.
Tue – Fri & Sun, 10am – 6pm; Sat, 10am –8pm (closed Mon); Hayward Gallery; Tickets £19 (free to Members; concessions available); includes entry to Linder: Danger Came Smiling
Thursday 1
Members’ Private View: Mickalene Thomas & Linder
Admire our two latest Hayward Gallery exhibitions, away from the crowds.
6pm; Hayward Gallery; Free, but ticketed (Members only)
Family
Our events are not just for the grown-ups – bring your little ones along for colourful shows, playful workshops
and musical adventures
Throughout the month
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 | Until Sun 1 Jun; Various times; Exhibition Space, Level 1, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £7.50 (every adult and child needs a ticket)
Friday 2
WordPlay:
Songs and Stories
Part of Open Doors
Join other families to enjoy music, stories and play designed for under-5s and their grown-ups. Relaxed event.
10.15am, 0 – 2 years; 11.30am, 3 – 5 years; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Friday 2 & Friday 16
Rug Rhymes: Summer
Enjoy poems, nursery rhymes and rhyming stories for ages 0 – 5 with the National Poetry Library.
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 3
Relaxed Sessions with Body Odyssey
Part of Open Doors
Join us for an inclusive version of our Saturday Sessions (see below), for those who may benefit from a smaller group and adapted space.
For ages 5+ | 10.30am; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Saturday Sessions with Body Odyssey
Part of Open Doors
Through workshops and live performance, take a journey through the amazing human body.
For ages 5 – 11 | 1pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Frantic Assembly x Aurora Orchestra:
Carnival – Family Edit
Part of Multitudes
It’s time to round up the family for Aurora Orchestra’s Carnival, created in collaboration with physical theatre company Frantic Assembly, featuring a memorised interpretation of Saint-Saëns’ The Carnival of the Animals and Richard Ayres’ new work Dr Frompou’s Anatomical Study of an Orchestra. Relaxed Performance.
For ages 7 – 11 and their families | 3pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £17
Friday 23
WordPlay:
Sounds and Scribbles
Part of Open Doors
You and your little ones are invited to respond to music through drawing, scribbling and play. Relaxed event.
10.15am, 0 – 2 years; 11.30am, 3 – 5 years; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
From Tuesday 27
Moomin 80: Play, Make, Dream
Part of Spring Family Fun
Come and build to your heart’s content as we bring the iconic Moominhouse to our Riverside Terrace. Relaxed event.
For ages 4+ | Until Sun 1 Jun; 10.30am, 11.30am and 12.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free, but ticketed
Moomin 80: Open House
Part of Spring Family Fun
Journey into the marvellous world of the Moomins and discover the famous sights of Moominvalley. Relaxed event.
For all ages | Until Sun 1 Jun; 2pm – 5pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free, but ticketed
Moomin 80: The Door Is Always Open
Part of Spring Family Fun
Marvel at the spectacle of the iconic Moominhouse as it’s built on our Riverside Terrace.
For all ages | Until Sun 1 Jun; 6pm – 9pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Wednesday 28 – Friday 30
Moomin 80: From Afghan Valleys to Moominvalley
Part of Spring Family Fun
Create your own piece of art inspired by the beauty of the Afghan valleys and Moominvalley, with Nabil Amini. Relaxed event.
For ages 4 – 11 | 11am; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Thursday 29 – Saturday 31 HENGE
Part of Spring Family Fun
Gravity-defying acrobatic tricks combine with dynamic parkour and rhythmic beats in this show. Relaxed Performance (RP).
For ages 3+ | 11am & 2pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £16
From Thursday 29
The Vanishing Elephant
Part of Spring Family Fun
Join an elephant and a boy in a story of friendship and belonging told through theatre and puppetry. Relaxed Performance (RP). British Sign Language interpreted (BSL): Friday 30 May, 6.30pm.
For ages 8+ | Until Sun 1 Jun; Various times; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £16
Saturday 31
OAE TOTS at LPO FUNharmonics: A Magical Adventure
Get your magical hands, feet and voices ready for this interactive children’s workshop from the OAE. For ages 2 – 5 | 10.15am, 11.15am & 12.15pm; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £10 (adult) £3 (child)
FUNharmonics: Petrushka
Roll up to the funfair with the London Philharmonic Orchestra and playful puppet star Petrushka. For ages 6+ | 12 noon; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £16 (adult) £8 (child)
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.
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
Friday 2 & Friday 16
Rug Rhymes: Summer
Enjoy poems, nursery rhymes and rhyming stories for ages 0 – 5 with the National Poetry Library.
For ages 0 – 5 | 11am; National Poetry Library, Level 5, Blue Side, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £4 (admits one adult and one child)
Sunday 4
Out-Spoken
Masterclass: May
Explore your creative potential in this engaging three-hour poetry workshop.
For ages 18+ | 1pm; Sunley Pavilion, Level 3, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £27
An Evening with Philippe Sands
The author discusses his new book uncovering a chilling historical crime that has real-world impact. Speech-to-Text transcribed (STT).
For ages 16+ | 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £20
Tuesday 6
Ahmed Alnaouq: We Are Not Numbers
Join us for the launch of an essay collection charting the daily lives and dreams of young people in Gaza.
For ages 16+ | 7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15
Wednesday 7
Torrey Peters: Stag Dance
Celebrate the publication of the author’s new quartet, a look at trans life past, present and future.
For ages 16+ | 7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £17
Thursday 8
Out-Spoken: May
Join renowned poet and author Joelle Taylor for our monthly poetry and music event. Speechto-Text transcribed (STT).
For ages 16+ | 7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £17
Friday 9
Laura Bates: The New Age of Sexism
The author shatters the illusion of progress with her new book about the future of sexism.
For ages 16+ | 7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £17
Sunday 18
International Booker Prize Shortlist Readings
Join the six authors and their translators shortlisted for the International Booker Prize 2025. Speech-to-Text transcribed (STT).
For ages 16+ | 7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £17 (also available to watch via live stream; Free)
Friday 23
Edward St Aubyn: Parallel Lines
Mark the publication of a story about connection, love and the consequences of our choices.
For ages 16+ | 7.45pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £15
Performance & dance
Innovative dance, gravity-defying acrobatics and heartwarming family shows: discover international performance for all ages here in our venues
Wednesday 7 – Saturday 10
Rambert x (LA)HORDE: Bring Your Own Tag along to crash a party as Rambert dancers take on some of (LA)HORDE’s legendary choreography. Audio Description available: Friday 9 May, 7.30pm.
For ages 15+ | Various times; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £22
Post-show talk: Thu 8 May
Tuesday 13 & Wednesday 14
My Grandson Benjamin
Get together for a heartwarming comedy about love and generational clashes, based on Lyudmila Ulitskaya’s beloved novel. Performed in Russian without English subtitles.
For ages 12+ | 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £32
Jaha Koo: Haribo Kimchi
Meeting in a South Korean snack bar, three characters take us on a culinary and cultural journey in a peformance featuring live cooking on stage.
For ages 13+ | 8pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £22
Thursday 15
Michelle Wolf
Catch the stand-up comedian and comedy writer in a show packed with her signature energy.
Under-16s must be accompanied by an adult. | 7pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £37
Friday 23
Shubbak Festival: The People's Catwalk
Celebrate the bold creativity of SWANA fashion with a fashion show from 3EIB and NAFS سفْنَ
For ages 16+ | 8pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Pay what you can
Saturday 24 & Sunday 25
Khashabi Theatre: MILK ك لْمِ
Come face to face with the rippling, time-warping effects caused by disaster in this piece of visual theatre by the independent Palestinian company.
For ages 14+ | Sat 24 May, 7.30pm; Sun 25 May, 4pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £22
Post-show talk: Sat 24 May
Thursday 29 – Saturday 31
HENGE
Gravity-defying acrobatic tricks combine with dynamic parkour and rhythmic beats in this show for the whole family. Relaxed Performance (RP).
For ages 3+ | 11am & 2pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £16
From Thursday 29
The Vanishing Elephant
Join an elephant and a boy in a story of friendship and belonging told through theatre and puppetry. Relaxed Performance (RP). British Sign Language interpreted (BSL): Friday 30 May, 6.30pm.
For ages 8+ | Until Sun 1 Jun; Various times; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £16
Saturday 31
Morgan Jay: The Goofy Guy Tour
Morgan Jay brings his unique blend of music and comedy to the stage with songs about love and dating.
For ages 14+. Under-18s must be accompanied by an adult. | 5pm & 8pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £35Hicias aut faccus sum eossimi lignat liquas rem ra conestios et quas eossim aut erition sequodio excepelliqui a alia cus quam qui con
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
Our programme celebrates the incredible 500-year history of classical music, bringing to life celebrated works from the past and telling brand new stories
Friday 2
Frantic Assembly x Aurora Orchestra: Carnival – Schools Performance
Part of Multitudes
Schools are invited to enjoy this vibrant introduction to orchestral instruments and music, brought to life with movement and words.
For ages 7+ | 1pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £7.50 per student, teachers free (schools only)
Saturday 3
Frantic Assembly x
Aurora Orchestra: Carnival – Family Edit
Part of Multitudes
It’s time to round up the family for Aurora Orchestra’s Carnival, created in collaboration with physical theatre company Frantic Assembly. Relaxed Performance.
For ages 7 – 11 and their families | 3pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £17
Frantic Assembly x Aurora Orchestra: Carnival Part of Multitudes
Roll up, roll up! Scott Graham, director of physical theatre company Frantic Assembly
(The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time), pushes Aurora Orchestra players to their limits in a memorised interpretation of Saint-Saëns’ The Carnival of the Animals. Richard Ayres’ new work
Dr Frompou’s Anatomical Study of an Orchestra tells the story of what happens after the carnival is over and the musicians begin to rebel…
For ages 7+ | 7pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £17
Sunday 4
Paul Lewis: Beethoven, Brahms & Mozart
The much-loved pianist performs glorious music in a feast of colour and contrast.
Paul Lewis piano
Beethoven Sonata in C minor, Op.10 No.1; Mozart Sonata in C, K.330; Brahms 3 Intermezzi, Op.117; Beethoven Sonata in C minor, Op.111
3pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £17
Maya Dunietz & Friends: Emahoy Tsegué-Maryam Guèbrou
Hear treasures from the composer’s sublime song collection, and arrangements for strings and piano.
London Sinfonietta string ensemble
Maya Dunietz piano Sofia Jernberg singer
6pm; Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £27
Thursday 8
Philharmonia Orchestra & The Bach Choir: Belshazzar’s Feast
The Bach Choir and the Philharmonia join forces for an evening of British music that tells gripping stories and describes stunning surroundings.
David Hill conductor
Amy Carson soprano
Harry Jacques tenor
Christopher Purves baritone
Delius The Song of the High Hills; Richard Blackford
La Sagrada Familia Symphony (World premiere); Walton Belshazzar's Feast
7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £10
The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall at 6.15pm: Insights Talk with Delius biographer Andrew J Boyle. Admission free.
Sunday 11
Randall Goosby & Zhu Wang: Bologne & Schubert
A feast of seductively gorgeous music performed by the internationally acclaimed young violin and piano duo.
Randall Goosby violin
Zhu Wang piano
Bologne (Chevalier de SaintGeorges) Violin Sonata No.3 in G minor, Op.1a; Fauré Violin Sonata No.1 in A, Op.13; Chausson Poème, Op.25; Schubert Rondo brillant in B minor, D.895
4pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £17
Saturday 17
Osman Mir & Third Culture Collective
Part of South Asian Sounds
Celebrate Gujarat folk traditions as Gujarati music is reimagined with a western classical orchestra.
Third Culture Collective Orchestra
Kavi Pau conductor
Osman Mir singer
Aamir Mir singer
For all ages | 7pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £32
Roopa Panesar’s ATMA (The Soul)
Part of South Asian Sounds
The sitar player plays music from her album ATMA, alongside some of the finest Indian classical and jazz musicians in the UK today.
Roopa Panesar sitar
Shahbaz Hussain tabla
Bangalore Prakash ghatam, morsing (indian jews harp), mridangam
Giuliano Modarelli guitar
Camilo Tirado live electronics, textural percussion
Surdarshan Chana jori
Ben Hazleton double bass
For all ages | 7.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £17
Sunday 18
Rushil Ranjan & National Youth Choir
Part of South Asian Sounds
Experience a new choral work blurring the lines between Indian and Western classical music.
For all ages | 6.30pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall; Tickets from £27
Wednesday 21
Carmina Burana with Barts Choir
Carl Orff's ever-popular work sets medieval songs to music of barbaric splendour.
Trafalgar Sinfonia
Ivor Setterfield conductor to be announced soloists
Boys from Dulwich Prep & Senior children's choir
Vaughan Williams Toward the unknown region for chorus & orchestra; Fantasia on a theme by Thomas Tallis; Orff Carmina Burana
7.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £15
Thursday 22
Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment:
Schumann's Piano Concerto
Sir András Schiff sprinkles fantasy and magic as he performs the most romantic of piano concertos.
Sir András Schiff director, fortepiano
Schumann Introduction and Allegro appassionato in G for piano & orchestra, Op.92; Mendelssohn
Excerpts from the Incidental Music to A Midsummer Night's Dream; Schumann Piano Concerto
7pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £15
Saturday 24
Opera North: Verdi’s Simon Boccanegra
Experience Opera North up close in this concert performance of a rare and thrilling Verdi masterpiece.
Orchestra of Opera North
Antony Hermus conductor
Roland Wood baritone, Simon Boccanegra
Vazgen Gazaryan bass, Jacopo Fiesco
Sara Cortolezzis soprano, Amelia Grimaldi
Andrés Presno tenor, Gabriele Adorno
Mandla Mndebele baritone, Paolo Albiani
Richard Mosley-Evans bass, Pietro
Ivan Sharpe tenor, Captain
Laura Kelly-McInroy mezzosoprano, Maid Chorus of Opera North
Verdi Simon Boccanegra - opera in 3 acts (concert performance in Italian with English surtitles) 7pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £17
Sunday 25
Messiah
Experience the breathtaking force of this well-loved piece, including its powerful ‘Hallelujah’ chorus. Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra
Neville Creed conductor London Philharmonic Choir
2.30pm; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £21.50
Saturday 31
OAE TOTS at LPO
FUNharmonics: A Magical Adventure
Get your magical hands, feet and voices ready for this interactive children’s workshop from the OAE. For ages 2 – 5 | 10.15am, 11.15am & 12.15pm; Level 5 Function Room, Green Side, Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £10 (adult) £3 (child)
FUNharmonics: Petrushka
Roll up to the funfair with the London Philharmonic Orchestra and playful puppet star Petrushka.
For ages 6+ | 12 noon; Royal Festival Hall; Tickets from £16 (adult) £8 (child)
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.
Free events
There's lots to see and do for free this month, including chances to get creative and make social connections as part of our Open Doors programme
Throughout the month Future Exhibition
Makers: The People's Exhibition
Get new perspectives on the legacy of the 1951 festival in a free display created by 15 young people.
Until Fri 28 Nov; Mon & Tue, 10am – 6pm; Wed – Sun, 10am – 11pm; Archive Studio, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Bharti Kher: Target Queen
On the exterior of the Hayward Gallery, a colourful new artwork celebrates the bindi at super scale.
Daily; Hayward Gallery Wall, Belvedere Road Side; Free
Thursday 1
Members’ Private View: Mickalene Thomas & Linder
Admire our two latest Hayward Gallery exhibitions, away from the crowds.
6pm; Hayward Gallery; Free, but ticketed (Members only)
Friday 2
WordPlay:
Songs and Stories
Part of Open Doors
Join other families to enjoy music, stories and play designed for under-5s and their grown-ups. Relaxed event.
10.15am, 0 – 2 years; 11.30am, 3 – 5 years; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Saturday 3
Relaxed Sessions with Body Odyssey
Part of Open Doors
Join us for an inclusive version of our Saturday Sessions (see below), for those who may benefit from a smaller group and adapted space.
For ages 5+ | 10.30am; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Saturday Sessions with Body Odyssey
Part of Open Doors
Through workshops and live performance, take a journey through the amazing human body.
For ages 5 – 11 | 1pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Saturday 3, 10 & 17
Southbank Centre Youth Voices 2025
Discover the joy of singing with expert vocal leaders at taster sessions for our youth choir.
For ages 9 – 18 | 9.30am; Various offsite locations (see website); Free (apply online)
Wednesday 7 & Wednesday 21 Archive Sessions: Meltdown
Explore our Meltdown festival archive and learn how to catalogue fascinating items for the future.
3pm; Archive Studio, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free, but ticketed
Thursday 8
futuretense: Rita Kamale + Lydia Lutudi
Tune into the sounds of the future with groove-driven rhythms from a musical force of nature, at this edition of our fortnightly gig series.
For ages 14+ | 6pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
Thursday 15
futuretense: Saloni + 916
Part of South Asian Sounds
Two rising-star acts bridge British and South-Asian cultures and music, from hip-hop to Bollywood, at this edition of our free gig series.
For all ages | 6pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
Sunday 18 – Sunday 25
International Booker Prize Shortlist Readings: Live Stream
Tune in to hear the six authors and their translators shortlisted for the International Booker Prize 2025 read from and discuss their books.
For ages 16+ | Available for 7 days from 7.45pm on Sunday 18; Online events; Free (also available to watch live, from £17)
Wednesday 21
Creative Encounters: The Londoners' Printing Press
Part of Open Doors
Try your hand at typography and collaborative print-making on a DIY printing press, with artist and graphic designer Theo Hersey.
For ages 12+ | 5.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Thursday 22
Works in Progress: Common Ground
Part of Open Doors
Get creative with our new series shaped by young people for young people. Relaxed event.
For ages 16 – 25 | 5.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Friday 23
WordPlay: Sounds and Scribbles
Part of Open Doors
You and your little ones are invited to respond to music through drawing, scribbling and play. Relaxed event.
10.30am, 0 – 2 years; 12 noon, 3 – 5 years; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Mix & Move: Hip-Hop Grooves
Part of Open Doors
Join us each month to get down to some funky hip-hop grooves, tailored for all bodies.
For all ages | 3pm – 6pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free Shubbak Festival: The People's Catwalk
Celebrate the bold creativity of SWANA fashion with a fashion show from 3EIB and NAFS سفْنَ
For ages 16+ | 8pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Pay what you can
Saturday 24 & Sunday 25
3EIB Fashion Pop-up: SWAG from SWANA
Discover a collection of independent fashion brands from South West Asia and North Africa.
For all ages | 12 noon – 6pm; Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer; Free
From Tuesday 27
Moomin 80:
Play, Make, Dream
Part of Spring Family Fun
Come and build to your heart’s content as we bring the iconic Moominhouse to our Riverside Terrace. Relaxed event.
For ages 4+ | Until Sun 1 Jun; 10.30am, 11.30am and 12.30pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free, but ticketed
Moomin 80: Open House
Part of Spring Family Fun
Journey into the marvellous world of the Moomins and discover the famous sights of Moominvalley. Relaxed event.
For all ages | Until Sun 1 Jun; 2pm – 5pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free, but ticketed
Moomin 80: The Door Is Always Open
Part of Spring Family Fun
Marvel at the spectacle of the iconic Moominhouse as it’s built on our Riverside Terrace.
For all ages | Until Sun 1 Jun; 6pm – 9pm; Riverside Terrace, Level 2; Free
Wednesday 28
Creative Encounters: Found Sounds
Part of Open Doors
Immerse yourself in Japanese folk music and use recycled materials to make instruments.
For ages 12+ | 5.30pm; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; Free
Wednesday 28 – Friday 30
Moomin 80: From Afghan Valleys to Moominvalley
Part of Spring Family Fun
Create your own piece of art inspired by the beauty of the Afghan valleys and Moominvalley, with Nabil Amini. Relaxed event.
For ages 4 – 11 | 11am; The Clore Ballroom, Level 2, Royal Festival Hall; 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.
Upcoming highlights
Little Simz’ Meltdown
One of the UK’s most captivating and compelling artists curates the 30th edition of Meltdown, the country’s longest-running artist-curated music festival.
Thursday 12 – Sunday 22 June
Also coming soon
Enigma Variations
The electrifying Dinis Sousa conducts the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment in the dazzling, mystery-shrouded work that made Elgar an international name.
Wednesday 4 June
Yoshitomo Nara
Dive into the captivating, creative world of Yoshitomo Nara in the largest European retrospective of one of Japan’s most celebrated artists.
Tuesday 10 June – Sunday 31 August
Matriarch: An Evening with Tina Knowles & Guests
Knowles celebrates her new book – a glorious chronicle of her life, and a testament to the power of Black motherhood.
Wednesday 4 June
Jordi Savall & Hespèrion XXI: Baroque Revolution
One of early music’s true visionaries steers this journey through the trailblazing sounds of the Baroque era.
Wednesday 11 June
The Moth: GrandSLAM Ten storytellers share new stories in a quest to be crowned the London Storytelling Champion by the iconic storytelling platform.
Friday 6 June
Creative Encounters: Midsummer Melodies Come together to celebrate one of the most important holidays in the Swedish calendar with singing, dancing and general merrymaking.
Wednesday 25 June
Eat & explore
Make a steak date
Have you spotted the sizzling new addition to our line-up of restaurants yet? Tucked beneath the Royal Festival Hall on Southbank Centre Square, Flat Iron has fired up the grill.
A chance to dine out on premium beef without breaking the bank, the steak institution is the ideal spot for a date, boasting a bar, indoor restaurant and outdoor terrace to take in the London buzz.
Inspired by the history and architecture of the Royal Festival Hall, the restaurant interior is a stylish and comfortable affair, decked out in oak, marble and leather. On the terrace, soak up the outdoor ambience into the evening on the long summer nights ahead.
Pop in for a pre- or post-event dinner and treat yourself to a signature Flat Iron steak and sides, or the Wagyu special steak of the day, followed by a dessert from the restaurant’s ice cream station – a dinner well done, if you ask us.
And don’t forget to sample the equally tempting menu of cocktails, beers and a curated selection of wines, including a limited-edition Reserve Malbec to celebrate the opening. Now we’re cooking!
Flat Iron, Southbank Centre Square; Mon, 12 noon – 10pm; Tue & Wed, 12 noon – 10.30pm; Thu – Sat, 12 noon – 11pm; Sun, 12 noon – 10pm southbankcentre.co.uk/foodanddrink
Head to the roof
Wiped out after a day of sight-seeing? With unrivalled vistas of the river and city skyline, our (not-so) secret garden on the roof of the Queen Elizabeth Hall is a tranquil oasis to grab a quiet moment above the hustle and bustle of central London.
If you’re in need of refreshment, our Roof Garden Bar & Kitchen serves up a delicious selection of Mediterranean-inspired dishes fresh from the grill, including loaded flatbreads, small bites and BBQ plates, and a whole menu of tasty summer cocktails, wines, beers and non-alcoholic drinks. The rooftop is also home to over 200 different native
wild plants and flowers, which thrive under the care of gardener Paul Pulford and participants of pioneering recovery programme Grounded Ecotherapy. With plenty of seating, shaded areas and an expanse of grass to stretch out on, it’s a ticket to that holiday feeling without the airport transfers. So climb the stairs or take the lift, spread your blanket, lie back on the grass and… let the summer begin.
Queen Elizabeth Hall Roof Garden: Tue, 4pm – dusk; Wed – Sun, 12 noon – dusk (subject to weather conditions);
Roof Garden Bar & Kitchen: Tue – Fri, 4pm – 10.30pm; Sat & Sun, 12 noon – 10.30pm
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.
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 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
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. 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*
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, and no booking fees for Hayward Gallery exhibition tickets.
Many of our ticket prices include a £2 restoration levy, enabling us to care for our historic buildings. Under-12s must be accompanied by an adult across our site.
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
As part of South Asian Sounds, our series celebrating contemporary and classical music from India and Pakistan, chart-topping Punjabi music star Jaz Dhami joins forces with acclaimed composer Sumeet Chopra to explore the richness of Bhangra music in BAM! Jaz Dhami x Sumeet Chopra (Fri 16 May).
Image credits
On the cover: BAM! Jaz Dhami x Sumeet Chopra © Eddy Omr
Inside cover: Baluji Shrivastav & Inner Vision Quartet © Simon Richardson
This month’s highlights: Rambert x (La)Horde: Bring Your Own © Kibwe Tavares, Armando Elias and Vianney Le Caer; Randall Goosby © Kaupo Kikkas; International Booker Prize Shortlist Readings © David Parry/The Booker Prize Foundation; Opera North: Verdi’s Simon Boccanegra © Mark Allan; Moomin 80 © Moomin Characters™; The Vanishing Elephant © Gorgeous Photography; Norman Jay's Good Times Band © Dean Chalkley
Header images: Gigs: Roopa Panesar © Mark Allan; Art & exhibitions: Installation view of Linder: Danger Came Smiling. Photo: Mark Blower. Courtesy the artist and the Hayward Gallery; Family: FUNharmonics: Petrushka © courtesy London Philharmonic Orchestra; Literature & talks: An Evening with Philippe Sands © Christian Andre Strand; Performance & dance: Jaha Koo: Haribo Kimchi © Bea Borgers; Classical music: Carnival © courtesy Aurora Orchestra; Free events: Archive Sessions: Meltdown © David Carter
Upcoming highlights: Little Simz © Thibaut Grevet; Enigma Variations/Dinis Sousa © David Rodrigues; Tina Knowles © Blair Caldwell; The Moth: GrandSLAM © Peter Cooper; Yoshitomo Nara, Missing in Action, 1999. Courtesy of Sally and Ralph Tawil © Yoshitomo Nara, courtesy Yoshitomo Nara Foundation; Jordi Savall © David Ignaszewski; Creative Encounters: Midsummer Melodies/Norrsang Choir © courtesy of the artist
Eat & explore: Flat Iron © Flat Iron; Queen Elizabeth Roof Garden © Victor Frankowski
Listings correct at time of going to press (2025).
The Southbank Centre is a registered charity no. 298909
