Music

Eight events and exhibitions to get you exploring London

There’s loads happening in London right now, with an array of special events and exhibits ensuring the capital is buzzing with creativity.

Scroll down for eight of the must-see events taking place across the next few months and check out our full London Guide for even more essential dates for your diary.

1. Video Games Live

Now this is something gamers are sure to love! Video Games Live, a video game concert (yes, you read that correctly), is coming to Manchester on 19 March and London on 20 March. This immersive event features an orchestra and choir – backed by state-of-the-art lighting, video footage and other cool visuals – performing the best in game music. About 50 game franchises from the past and present will be featured, including Super Mario, Halo, Warcraft, Myst, Tomb Raider and Pac-Man.

Book tickets for Video Games Live.

2. The Moscow State Circus

Roll up, roll up! The Moscow State Circus is coming to town and this is a circus unlike any other. Your favourite forms of daredevilry – acrobatics, juggling, roller skating, high wire walking and more – will be showcased as part of the Russian folklore story Cvetik-Semicvetik. Called Zhelaniy, this enchanting production features Wizard Wako, his crazy sidekick Natalia Mezentseva and some lovable buffoons. They’ll guide you through a tale about a mysterious place where dreams come true – and where some thrilling feats are sure to blow your mind. The Moscow State Circus is currently touring the UK and will stop in London at Paddock Coach Park from 22 March – 3 April.

Book tickets for The Moscow State Circus.

3. EXHIBITIONISM

The Rolling Stones’ first international exhibition opens on 5 April at Saatchi Gallery, home to where the band’s journey together began in the heart of Chelsea. The multimedia experience will showcase more than 550 previously unseen Rolling Stones artefacts in nine themed rooms. We can’t wait to check out the 90 costumes that will be on display. For six more reasons we’re stoked about EXHIBITIONISM, read our blog. The exhibit, which has the full participation and support of Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts and Ronnie Wood, runs through to 4 September.

Book tickets for EXHIBITIONISM.

4. Harlem Globetrotters

Basketball with a healthy dose of humour – that’s what you can expect from the Harlem Globetrotters. The goofy yet unbelievably talented squad are celebrating their 90th anniversary on this world tour. In addition to appearing in London at The O2 on 24 April, the b-ball team will also be travelling around the UK with stops in Nottingham, Liverpool, Sheffield, Newcastle Upon Tyne, Birmingham, Manchester, Aberdeen, Glasgow and Cardiff. Known for their ball-handling wizardry, it’s a thrilling even for all ages.

Book tickets for the Harlem Globetrotters.

5. An Evening with the Cathedral Choristers of Britain

With its stunning architecture, stained glass windows and iconic dome (as well as its historical, royal and religious significance), St Paul’s Cathedral is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting the city. A truly unique way to experience this one-of-a-kind London landmark is by attending a choral presentation. An Evening with the Cathedral Choristers of Britain will be held on 27 April. Not only will the event raise money to support cathedral music, but it will also bring together choristers from 60 of the country’s cathedrals and colleges. Andrew Carwood, St Paul’s Director of Music, will serve as the conductor.

Book tickets for An Evening with the Cathedral Choristers of Britain.

6. London Motor Show

Want to gawk at the latest innovations in motoring technology? Then you’ve got to attend the London Motor Show. This event is being revived after an eight-year hiatus. Sponsored by The Telegraph, it will take place at Battersea Evolution in Battersea Park on 6 – 8 May. See everything from luxury, city and concept cars to off-road vehicles, EVs and motorcycles. Plus enjoy a trip down memory lane with a few of your favourite classics.

Book tickets for the London Motor Show.

7. The Household Division Beating Retreat

Everyone loves pomp and circumstance, and Britain does it better than anywhere else in the world. Along with the Changing of the Guard, The Household Division put on concerts and official programmes for the Queen. On 8 – 9 June, watch the Beating Retreat, a sunset ceremony at Horse Guards Parade. This colourful pageant is one of several events commemorating Her Majesty’s 90th birthday. Don’t miss out on a spectacular evening filled with military music, precision drills, horses, cannons and fireworks!

Book tickets for The Household Division Beating Retreat.

8. Kew the Music

There’s no more enchanting place in Greater London than Kew Gardens. So just imagine adding live music to this backdrop! Now in its seventh year, Kew the Music is a week-long summer festival of outdoor picnic concerts. Warning: the 2016 line-up is so good you’ll want to buy tickets for multiple days. Simply Red perform as part of their Big Love Tour on 12 July, followed by Will Young on 13 July. Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra will appear on 15 July. And you can hear the traditional Spanish-style music of the Gipsy Kings on 17 July.

Book tickets for Kew the Music.

Don’t forget to check out our full London Guide for even more events and exhibitions.