Kensington and Chelsea Festival 2023 Closing Highlights| My London Times

 

The Kensington and Chelsea Festival, held from 1st July to 31st August 2023, showcases an array of live art performance, featuring both established and emerging talent. The festival spans various disciplines such as theatre, circus, dance, music, outdoor arts, family shows, talks, walks, and public art installations. It aims to celebrate culture and creativity, providing an engaging experience for attendees.

There’s still plenty left to see and do as the festival draws towards its closing week… Scroll on for more!

606 CLUB OUTDOOR POP UPS – 10th August to 31st August | All day

 Enjoy free evening performances of live music along the King’s Road in a special series curated by Chelsea’s much-loved jazz venue, the 606 Club, this August. Sponsored by Cadogan and the King’s Road Partnership as part of the 2023 Kensington and Chelsea Festival, world-renowned musicians are set to bring some pizzazz to the neighbourhood with pop-up performances every Thursday. Free. CLICK HERE!

MAKESHIFTS & REALITIES – 8th August to 2nd September 7.30pm (+ 3pm on Fridays and Sundays)

Aardvark Theatre presents a triple bill of Makeshifts and Realities by Gertrude Robins, and Honour Thy Father by H. M. Harwood. In Makeshifts – a moving and unexpectedly humorous look at the sexual double-standards and the pressures imposed on women in the early twentieth century – two unmarried sisters face uncertain futures unless they can find husbands. In Realities, we catch up with Caroline two years later as she reviews the choices she has made. And in Honour Thy Father an upper-class English family, ruined by the father’s gambling habit, have fled to Bruges in 1912 where they live in exile in straitened circumstances, anxiously awaiting a visit from their eldest daughter, woman whose career provides them with their only income. £23 (£20 concessions). CLICK HERE!

CONFLUENCE (Live music) – 25th August 7.30pm 

Expect the unexpected in this unique meeting of mind and soul, bringing together a confluence of artists and blending musical genres, experiences and artistry to explore cultural interconnectedness. In this family friendly show, tabla player Sanju Sahai will be joined by harp guitarist Jason Carter, award-winning pianist Rosabella Gregory and Kathak dance artist Jaymini Sahai, presenting Kathak Dance in a new light. Pay what you want. CLICK HERE!

ALLEYNE DANCE, BONDED – 26th August, afternoon 

Bonded is an outdoor production that explores the construct of human dependency – especially that of siblings – and how time and external conditions can affect the synergetic connection. Performed by twin sisters, Kristina and Sadé, the work takes the audience through a transitional journey of inter-and-independency through abstract dance narrative. Outside The Chelsea Theatre. Free. CLICK HERE!

JUSTICE IN MOTION – CODE –  26th August, afternoon 

CODE is a spectacular blend of physical theatre, parkour and trial bike stunts with live rap music that shines a light on issues of exploitation, county lines and knife crime. A very poignant topic, in particular for younger audiences, but relevant and engaging for all ages. Also features a skate park – bring along your skateboard to take part. World’s End Place. Free. CLICK HERE!

KICKMOUSE MYSTERIUM (Physical theatre) – 26th August 2pm 

Set in a homemade world of cardboard, contraptions, illusions and mystifying objects, this comedy fable follows Jon (the chaotic student of Frank the Dog) as he breaks a precious artefact and has to redeem himself through a series of challenges and games. A funny, stylish, challenging, yet accessible, physical comedy show Suitable for age 3+. the show explores the process of mastering one’s body, acquiring physical coordination and confidence through practice and repetition. Pay what you want. CLICK HERE!

THE TREE RINGS (Physical theatre) – 29th August 7.30pm 

Trees hold stories, in more ways than one. They hold memories and myths. The rings within a tree’s trunk are archives of changes and events in our environment. What if they could tell you those stories? What if a tree could ring you? Using physicality, shadow puppetry, music and quirky humour, The Tree Rings explores a boy’s relationship with a tree over several decades, combining a childlike delight for magic and myths, stories from trees around the world, and a concern for our natural environment. Suitable for age 8+. Pay what you want. CLICK HERE!

THE MARINER’S SONG (Theatre) – 30th August 7.30pm 

This award-winning ‘round the campfire’ verse storytelling experience from London-based writer-performer Rajan Sharma, takes audiences aged 12+ on a lyrical voyage, navigating ancient myth, family history and life at sea. Contemplating humanity’s primal connection to oceans, rivers and seas – and our connection and responsibility to one another – Sharma’s narrative odyssey is directly inspired by his unique first-hand experience crewing on a Deep-Sea Challenge, interweaving his grandfather’s timeless wisdom and familiar characters from Greek mythology. Pay what you want. CLICK HERE!

KENSINGTON + CHELSEA ART WEEK ART TRAIL 6TH EDITION to 31st August all day 

Throughout the festival, visitors are invited to explore Kensington + Chelsea Art Week (KCAW)’s Public Art Trail, delivered in partnership with Kensington and Chelsea Festival with assistance from Kensington and Chelsea Council. Located across nine zones, the Art Trail will take up residence at some of West London’s most beautiful and iconic sites, including Duke of York Square, Sloane Street, Royal Avenue on the King’s Road, Earl’s Court, North Kensington, Holland Park, High Street Kensington, and Knightsbridge. The final line-up for 2023 was chosen by an esteemed select committee following an Open Call, and includes Ai Weiwei, Misha Milovanovich, Baker & Borowski, Josephine Chime, Satur Chong, Lucy Oates, Malgorzata Lisiecka, Norma D Hunter and Peter Morris. Free. CLICK HERE!

Kensington and Chelsea Festival was established in 2021 with a firm goal of ensuring the myriad events offer everyone in the borough and beyond a chance to experience the widest variety of culture on their doorsteps. The festival is run and funded by Kensington and Chelsea Council.

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New Opening: Najma Lebanon brings the flavours of the Middle East to London’s Park Lane | My London Times

This summer, a new and delightful culinary addition has emerged at the InterContinental London Park Lane – Najma (which means ‘star’ in Arabic) Lebanon. This establishment proudly showcases the flavorsome cuisine of the region while offering authentic Middle Eastern hospitality, thus enriching Mayfair’s dining scene.

The menu takes inspiration from renowned Lebanese chef, Georges Rahme, who is based in IHG Hotels and Resorts at Dubai’s Festival City. It features an array of hot and cold mezze, remarkable salads signature dishes, and exquisite desserts. The cuisine is characterised by its fresh and flavourful creations, designed to be shared, incorporating subtle scents and intricate spices.

The main courses feature sharing platters of mixed seafood and grilled meats, accompanied by signature plates including Pan-fried seabass with wilted spinach, chilled tomato dakkous, and charred lemon; Grilled lemon sole marinated with lemon, chili, and garlic, served with wilted greens and sumac beurre blanc; and Chargrilled lamb chops with slow-cooked tomatoes and crispy fried potatoes.

To finish, indulge your palate with delectable desserts such as Maamoul, a butter cookie filled with crème anglaise and pistachio ice cream; Traditional Osmalieh with rose-infused roasted vermicelli and vanilla Chantilly cream, or an assortment of Baklava.

The Najma Lebanon offers a generous set menu for two people at £65, which includes four mezzeh, two salads, a mixed grill platter comprising of lamb chops, beef kofta, chicken wings, and skewers, served with a side of chilli garlic aioli, wild rice, and baklava.

The drink selection showcases a variety of zero-proof cocktails, beers, and wines. Mocktails, such as Mango Colada with pineapple, coconut, and mango; Paloma with Pentire Seaward, agave, lime juice, grapefruit juice, Fever-Tree soda, and sea salt; and Amaretti Sour with Lyre’s amaretti, lemon juice, and vegan foamer, are complemented by alcohol-free sparkling wine and no/low-alcohol beer options. A selection of both Lebanese and international wines are also be available.

Najma is now open – and at your service!

Make a reservation

Opening times:
Wednesday – Saturday: 5.30pm to 1.30am (last booking 11.30pm)
Sunday: 4.30pm to 12.30am (last booking 10.30pm)

Email: icparklanedining@ihg.com or +44 (0)20 7409 3131.

Website: www.parklane.intercontinental.com/najma-lebanon | Instagram: @icparklane

Written by Kai Lutterodt @the.soho.girl | Photos: @the.soho.girl / @ICParkLane

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New Opening: Geode will bring a theatrical dining concept showcasing Mediterranean & Asian influences to Knightsbridge | My London Times

Geode, a new restaurant to open in Knightsbridge, will bring a fusion of Mediterranean and Asian influences in a captivating theatrical dining concept with open-flame cooking. Read on for more…

Opening in September 2023, Geode is the latest Knightsbridge culinary hotspot that transports guests from the blue skies of the Amalfi Coast to the vibrant cities of Asia on Beauchamp Place. Named after a mesmerising crystal, Geode promises an unparalleled dining experience with theatrical ambiance, luxurious interiors and a seasonal menu reflecting Mediterranean & Asian influences.

Conveniently situated in the heart of Knightsbridge, this new destination occupies a Georgian townhouse spanning an expansive 7,000 square feet across three floors. As guests pass through the elegant copper door, they will be greeted by a one-of-a-kind cocktail bar adorned with a geode-inspired design, embellished with vibrant stones displayed over its bronze façade. Ascending to a split-level mezzanine, patrons will discover an exquisite conservatory with an open-plan kitchen, where dishes are meticulously prepared and enhanced on the robata grill. A second dining area on the upper floor will extend the culinary delights into the early hours of the morning.

Executive Head Chef Francesco Scala will channel his culinary creativity through the lens of Mediterranean influences, while the accomplished Japanese Chef Yuka Aoyama will expertly infuse Asian flavors, resulting in an immersive culinary exploration. Overlooking the elegant conservatory, the exposed kitchen boasts an all-black design, providing a striking contrast to the white-clad chefs and the captivating open flames. Within this exquisite space, guests can witness the culinary mastery on display at dedicated stations, including a Robata Grill, Rotisserie Station, and Pizza Oven.

The comprehensive menu will offer an array of fresh and seasonal dishes prepared with locally-sourced ingredients. Mediterranean highlights encompass delectable options such as succulent beef tartare served atop roasted bone marrow, and a tantalising Cataplana—a Spanish-style fish stew cooked in a traditional cataplana copper pan. For those seeking Japanese delicacies, an assortment of Asian-inspired dishes awaits in the raw section, including the indulgent King Crab gunkan or the exquisite Tai miso seabream from the Robata section.

Music will play an integral role at the Knightsbridge hangout, embodying the concept of theatrical dining, where live music and DJ’s will create an upbeat and vibey atmosphere. Each guest will be taken on a timeless journey, where the cocktails are great, the people are better, and the vibe is high.

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Make a reservation

Geode, 14-15 Beauchamp Place, Knightsbridge, SW3 1NQ

Opening Times:

Tuesday, Wednesday & Sunday – 5:30pm–1:00am 

Thursday–Saturday – 5:30pm–1:30am

Website: www.geode.london | Instagram: @geodelondon

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Short Film: My Week with Maisy | My London Times

With what this year may well turn out to be an interesting patchwork of Autumn movie releases due to current industry circumstances (more on that later) it’s worthwhile watching out for some smaller, homegrown goodies.  Short films can often get buried under the razzmatazz of bigger budget studio offerings, but with many actors and crew pretty much out of action red carpet-wise for the time being at least because of the SAG-AFTRA strike, it might be worth casting the net a bit wider.

Continue reading “Short Film: My Week with Maisy | My London Times”

Laser Quest, London’s most exciting Family Experience has arrived in North West London this Summer! | My London Times

With the summer holidays in full swing, there’s no better time to embark on an unforgettable Laser Quest adventure. Rain or shine, Laser Quest is here, with zappers charged and ready for action (suitable for big kids too… i.e adults!)… Join the My London Times team for a thrilling experience!

Continue reading “Laser Quest, London’s most exciting Family Experience has arrived in North West London this Summer! | My London Times”

Celebrate Ferragosto – the height of Summer – at Sette, Knightsbridge | My London Times

Ferragosto is one of Italy’s most popular public holidays, dating back to Ancient Rome, marking the height of summer on the 15th August. For many Italians, it’s a time spent with family and friends, and is most commonly celebrated with a trip to the seaside. Sette‘s limited edition Ferragosto-inspired Menu in partnership with Ferrari Trento, can be enjoyed all throughout August, taking you on a journey of the restaurants’ classic dishes bursting with Italian flavours!

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This West London Restaurant transforms into a romantic Italian Garden | My London Times

With its subtle presence, yet centrally located on High Street Kensington, Como Garden is an Italian restaurant that will transport you from the hustle and bustle of the city to a romantic Italian getaway in a heartbeat!

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This is your sign to catch Luke Jerram’s stunning installation ‘Mars: War & Peace’ taking Social Media by storm! | My London Times

 

Mars: War & Peace by Luke Jerram is unveiled at St John the Baptist Church as part of the Kensington & Chelsea Festival, London. Photo credit should read: David Parry/PA Wire

One of the most exciting projects to appear at the Kensington & Chelsea Festival in 2023 is inarguably Mars: War & Peace, the touring artwork by UK artist Luke Jerram… catch it whilst you can!

Mars: War & Peace follows the hugely successful appearance of Luke Jerram’s previous works at the Kensington and Chelsea Festival, each attracted up to 3,000 visitors per day. This summer will be the first time that Mars: War & Peace has been installed in a Church setting and a new soundscape has been created especially for the festival.

Measuring seven metres in diameter, the artwork features 120dpi detailed NASA imagery of the Martian surface. At an approximate scale of 1:1 million, each centimetre of the internally lit spherical sculpture represents 10 kilometres of the surface of Mars.

The artwork allows us to view Mars from the air, as though we are a satellite mapping and studying the surface in perfect detail. Every valley, crater, volcano, and mountain are laid bare for us to inspect. We are transported to this desert wasteland, to imagine what it’s like to step foot on this incredible planet and in comparison, really value our life on Earth.

These Social Media reels are helping the Mars invasion go viral…

Mars: War & Peace by Luke Jerram is unveiled at St John the Baptist Church as part of the Kensington & Chelsea Festival, London. Photo credit should read: David Parry/PA Wire

Mars was named by the ancient Romans for their god of war because its reddish colour was reminiscent of blood. Accompanying the Mars: War & Peace sculpture is a specially created sound composition by BAFTA and Ivor Novello award winning composer Dan Jones. Featuring the sounds of seas, deserts and clips from NASA missions to Mars, it also incorporates the sounds of distant bombing and people marching, as if to war. This new soundtrack allows viewers the opportunity to reflect on the current conflict in Ukraine and the history and notion of war.

“Mars: War & Peace follows on from my other touring astronomical artworks Museum of the Moon and Gaia, allowing a close encounter with the Martian planet. Presented with a new soundtrack for the first time at Kensington & Chelsea Festival, I hope that visitors will feel transported to its inhospitable desert wasteland, whilst also being faced to contemplate the bleak realities of war on our planet.” – Luke Jerram

Mars: War & Peace will appear at three different sites across the festival: 

  • St John the Baptist Church (W14 8AH) from Saturday 22 to Sunday 30 July 2023 
  • All Saints’ Church (W11 1JS) from Monday 31 July to Tuesday 8 August
  • Jubilee Square (W8 7NX) – an outdoor setting from Thursday 10 August to Sunday 13 August
  • Tickets will be required, but all locations will be free to visit.

Full details: https://www.kcfestival.co.uk (website updated daily)

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What’s On: HYPER JAPAN 21 – 23 July | My London Times

The UK’s biggest festival of Japanese culture is back for its thirteenth year this weekend at Olympia London, running from Friday 21st July to Sunday 23rd July… Why not take a trip to Japan, without leaving the city?

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Must-Try: Maître Choux’s brand new pastry range the ‘Miracles’ collection is taking London by storm! | My London Times

London’s highly acclaimed French patisserie has launched a brand new pastry range, the ‘Miracles’ collection… and it seems London foodies can’t get enough!

Continue reading “Must-Try: Maître Choux’s brand new pastry range the ‘Miracles’ collection is taking London by storm! | My London Times”