BACKWhat? Showstopper! The Improvised Musical
Where? The King’s Head Theatre, Islington
When? 10th October – 21st December, 19.45 (click to purchase tickets!)
After a sell-out international tour and great success at the Edinburgh Fringe, ‘Showstopper! The Improvised Musical’ returns the The King’s Head pub theatre in Islington, London, from 10th October to 21st December 2010. Each performance of Showstopper! is different, and, with the help the audience’s suggestions, an unpredictable, spontaneous spectacle of dance and singing is formed right before their eyes. Having been described as “fantastically refreshing” by the Evening Standard and “astonishing” by the Metro, Showstopper! promises to entertain and enthral audiences of all musical tastes. Book now to experience “top-class creativity in action” (Time Out).
What? Cinemusica – Villa-Lobos and Brazil
Where? The Purcell Room, Southbank Centre
When? Thursday 2nd December, 19.45 (click to purchase tickets!)
The Brazilian pianist Marcelo Bratke and artist Mariannita Luzzati come together to celebrate Heitor Villa-Lobos’ music in this concert at the Southbank Centre. In this performance the audience’s perception of Villa-Lobos’ Brazilian-inspired compositions is enhanced by the projection of Luzzati’s landscape photographs, and this combination of the visual and the auditory creates a striking artistic fusion. Bratke’s interpretations of Villa-Lobos have been described as “offering hints of wildness” and “shining piano colours” by The New York Times, and Luzzati’s works have been praised for their “essence and atmosphere” by The Spectator. As an evocation of the ‘Brazilian soul’, this concert will be treat for all the senses!
What? Farsa Monea
Where? The Forge, Camden
When? Thursday 2nd December, 19.30 (click to purchase tickets!)
This unique ensemble of guitar, percussion and vocals brings a fresh and vibrant new life to traditional and folk music of Spain and Latin America. Through the beautiful sound of the Spanish guitar, profound and powerful vocals and various traditional percussion instruments, the ensemble captures the stories, passion and dreams of the Spanish people. They have previously performed in the City of London Festival, the London Classical Guitar Festival and have appeared at venues such as the Bolivar Hall and Bishopsgate Institute. This is most definitely a group to keep your eye on in the near future.
What? Arthur Davison Family Concert
Where? Fairfield Halls
When? Saturday 4th December, 11.00 (click to purchase tickets!)
A festive Christmas concert featuring a variety of music and performances including, The Sleeping Beauty, a Toy Symphony, a Sleigh ride for Santa, a Chidren’s Overture, a Feather Dance, and the lively Can-Can. There will also be carols which have been composed by local children as well as traditional carols so that the audience can join in. This event is incredibly family friendly and in the Fairfield Halls which has just completed the refurbishment of its foyer.
What? Coro Ensemble
Where? St John’s, Smith Square, SW1 3HA
When? Saturday 11th December, 18.30 (click to purchase tickets!)
This one is to get you into the Christmassy mood. The London chamber choir, Coro, will be performing a celebratory Christmas concert to mark the 10 year anniversary of their founding. They will be singing highlights of their repertoire together with season music from across the centuries such as Ralph Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia on Christmas Carols. There will also be readings from Penelope Wilton and Benedict Cumberbatch. Coro is also welcoming back their founder conductor, Susan Digby OBE. The Coro ensemble have a strong following an their Christmas concerts are consistently sold out, so make sure you get your tickets soon!
What? Spitalfields Winter Festival: Madrigals Transformed
Where? Christ Church, Commercial Street, London
When? Tuesday 14th December, 18.30 (click to purchase ticket!)
Cauis College choir performs madrigals transformed into sacred works by Monteverdi and Coppini. This is a rare opportunity for music lovers to see Montiverdi’s famous madrigals as well as the famous lament from his lost opera, Arianna. The Italian choral works will be a great way to break in your festive season.
Extra: Spitalfields Winter festival is a music festival that has a wide musical selection for everyone to enjoy. From Baroque, Early music, Contemporary, family friendly, school events and free concerts this is definitely something to look into for something to do over the December weeks!