Failed your new years resolution? Already Sick of 2012? How about we set these January blues aside and get excited for February! Whether you like Spoken Word or want to go to a new and exciting exhibition there is definitely something for you!
Lucian Freud Portraits @ The National Portrait Gallery – From 9th Feb to 27th May
Bringing together a selection of his most famous works, this exhibition is bound to be yet another highlight of what is set to be a major year for cultural greats. As part of the Cultural Olympian London festival for 2012, a Lucian Freud exhibition takes place at the National Portrait Gallery and will allow visitors to follow his gradual transition to the artistic style he is most well known for today. Price: £12-14
Vocals and Verses – Valentines Special @ Proud Camden on 12th Feb
Vocals & Verses showcases some of the finest underground poets and singers in the UK, maintaining a high level of quality in every show. Described as “a mix between Jazz Cafe and Def Poetry Jam”, Vocals & Verses is an intimate night of poetry and live music from breathtaking UK spoken word poets and talented musicians. And with Valentines Day coming up it is likely a lot of creativity will be flowing from such a potent theme like love.
Picasso and Modern British Art @ Tate Britain – From 15th Feb to 15 July
In a major new exhibition at Tate Britain, Picasso and Modern British Art explores his legacy and influence on British art and the artists like Francis Bacon, David Hockney, and Henry Moore. The exhibition aims to explore how he played a role in the acceptance of modern art in Britain, alongside the fascinating story of Picasso’s lifelong connections to and affection for this country. Price: £12.20-£14
The Great Gatsby @ Lost Theatre – 27th & 28th Feb
How about spending a night at the theater watching this famous tale unfold before the film adaptation comes out later this year? Published in 1925, the novel takes place following the First World War, at a time when American society enjoyed prosperity during the “roaring” 1920s. Fitzgerald’s novel graphically portrays a society being destroyed by money and dishonesty, an American Dream of happiness and individualism degenerating into the mere
pursuit of wealth. The tense and gripping drama is played out to its dramatic climax by a cast of five talented actors, in a style which is characteristic of Tour De Force productions: fast-paced, visually evocative and highly theatrical. Price: £10
All New People @ Duke of York Theatre – 22 Feb to 28th April
Garden State and Scrubs actor Zach Braff brings his All New People play to London. Here is a clip of him explaining what its about:
The Young Writers Festival @ The Royal Court – 23rd Feb to 14th April
If you want to get involved in Theater, there is no better place to start than at the Royal Court. Since 1973 The Young Writers Festival has been unrivaled in its discovery of new writing, launching writers such as Simon Stephens (2005 Olivier award for Best Newcomer), Christopher Shinn (nominated for the Pulitzer Prize in 2008), Bola Agbaje (2008 Olivier Award), Leo Butler, Andrea Dunbar, DC Moore, Michael Wynne and Chloe Moss. Most recently Alia Bano’s play Shades, (Most Promising Playwrights Award at the Evening Standard Award and Critics’ Circle Awards). There are loads to do including FREE workshops & conversations with playwrights Luke Norris and Hayley Squires.
Romeo & Juliet @ The Royal Opera House – Until the 31st March
See Romeo and Juliet in a different light in The Royal Ballet’s production of Shakespeare’s tragic tale of two star-crossed lovers.
Tickets from £5 if you’re quick!
London Liming presents Come Rhyme With Me @ RichMix -Thursday 9th Feb
It’s one of the best ways for newcomers to be introduced to literature and spoken word, through a night that offers a range of styles and sensibilities within a convivial vibe. Performers include Dean Atta, Deanna Rodger, Jasmine Cooray and many more… Price: £7/£5
David Hockney RA: A Bigger Picture @ The Royal Academy of The Arts – Until 9th April
Considered as one of Britain’s major art contributors during the fledging Pop art movement in the 1960s, David Hockney brings his 50-year portfolio to the public. Be sure to look out for the display of his iPad drawings and a series of new films produced using 18 cameras, which are displayed on multiple screens and provide a spellbinding visual journey through the eyes of this innovator. Price: £3-£15.50
Queen Elizabeth II by Cecil Beaton: A Diamond Jubilee Celebration @ The V&A – From 8th Feb to 22nd April
Coinciding with the monarch’s 60th year on the throne, one of the Queen’s most trusted photographers Cecil Beaton opens an exhibition at the Victoria & Albert. With some of his most famous portraits from when she was a young princess to her coronation in 1953 and her as young mother to Prince Charles, this is a fascinating look into our most important historical figures. Price: £5 for Students
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