Apologies for the delay in posting this week’s picks. My knee’s recovered sufficiently such that I’m starting to go back to Power Plate classes again, so I’m spending a bit more time outside of my flat than I have been over the past few weeks. I’ve also been a little in mourning that my beloved football team failed to capture their record-breaking 20th EPL title, though, truth be told, they really only have themselves to blame. Ah well.
Anyway, onwards and upwards!
School Nights
- If there’s one film you have to watch this week, make it Happy, director Roko Belic’s documentary on what really makes people happy. Real-life stories of people from around the world are interspersed with interviews with experts in the field of happiness research. Prince Charles Cinema, May 15th, 6.30 pm, £7
- Dance along to the Scissor Sisters who returned to London in a more intimate venue. I’ve not been to a concert with more consummate and mesmerising performers than these disco divas from New York. Also, if you’re looking for a place to eat nearby, check out Sichuan restaurant Tian Fu nearby for their delicious hot pot. Shepherd’s Bush Empire, May 16th and 17th, 7.00 pm (doors), £35 - £42.49
- Get in on the interactive movie viewing experience that is Amy Grimehouse presents John Waters’ Serial Mom. Re-enact the murders (figuratively, of course) and sing-a-long to Barry Manilow. Once that’s done, head upstairs to Tweetbox, where the tunes are selected from your tweets. The Book Club, May 16th, 8.00 pm, £6 for Amy Grimehouse / free for Tweetbox
- Niki & the Dove, the latest in a long line of awesome Swedish indie bands, have grabbed the attention of music critics all over the UK. Now here’s your chance to catch their amazing live show at a truly bargainous price. XOYO, May 16th, 8.00 pm (doors) / £9.50
- See Phill Jupitus trial new material at Comedy Gold for less than a tenner. This month’s line up includes Tony Law, Joe Lycett and Mae Martin. The Old Queen’s Head, May 16th, 6.30 pm to 12 mn, £8
- Catch Freeze, one of the most acclaimed comedy sketch shows around. I’ve seen them before, and while Tim Key (Masterslut) didn’t impress me at then, good-looking and musically talented Tom Basden certainly did. Udderbelly, May 17th to 19th, 9.00 pm (17th and 18th), 7.45 pm (19th), £15.50
- Although it doesn’t quite seem like summer (I mean, it hailed today, of all days. It’s MAY!), BP Summer Big Screens has returned, celebrating their 25th year this year. Blimey. This year’s season starts off with John Copley’s revival of Puccini’s La boheme starring tenor Angela Gheorghiu and Roberto Alagna as Mimi and Rodolfo. Bring an umbrella just in case. Trafalgar Square, May 17th, 6.30 pm, free
Weekend
- For one night only, Martin Archer, Kiss FM DJ and Space Plasma Physicist (an extraordinary combination, if you ask me), will be explaining the Science of Sound using the latest in club tunes. Ben Good will also be speaking, showing us how music can be used to communicate the concepts behind scientific theory, and giving a practical demonstration using his blues band. Once the talking’s over, the dancing will commence, facilitated by DJ Ed Drummond. The Chapel Bar, May 18th, 7.30 pm to 2.00 am, £5 (inclusive of one drink)
- Take advantage of this rare opportunity to enjoy Culture24’s Museums at Night, when museums all over the city throw their doors open for special evening events. Choice picks include a re-enactment of Surgery by Gaslight at the Old Operating Theatre Museum, interactive games at Come and Play at the Pump House Gallery, and the Love and Lust treasure hunt at the UCL Museums. Various, May 18th to 20th, see website for details
- Join DJs Khalif (Living Proof, Flashing Lights), Mr. Dex and Kengo-san (Cuban Brothers) who’ll be taking to the decks at Yo Ko So, a night with no music policy. A definite East London night to savour. Life Bar, May 18th, 9.00 pm (doors), free entry
- DJ Yoda, one of Q Magazine’s must-see musical acts before you die, will be taking you on a journey through decades past, filled with classics and hitherto undiscovered gems, combining genres in a way you didn’t think possible. DJ Cheeba, Abandoman and Magical Bones will be providing support. The Forum, May 19th, 8.00 pm (doors), £19.50
- Throw yourself into the Wonky Olympics organised by The Wonky Races Crew. Be a spectator (participation in the games is not mandatory, says the website), or see if you can go faster, better and higher than anyone else. There’ll be live music, barbecue and cupcakes on site as well. Moustache wearing for men and women is a must. Moustaches and sweatbands will be provided for free on entry. Ginglik, May 19th, 1.00 pm to 8.00 pm (outdoors), 8.00 pm to 4.00 am (club), £8
- For most of us, Ballgowns: British Glamour Since 1950 will be the closest we’ll ever get to seeing those spectacular red carpet outfits. The exhibition will cover over 60 years of British design, featuring designers such as Zandra Rhodes, Jonathan Saunders, Giles Deacon and Alexander McQueen. V&A Museum, May 19th to Jan 6th, 10.00 am to 5.45 pm daily (10.00 am to 10.00 pm Fridays), £10
- Shivers, a series aimed to enlighten us about Canada’s contribution to genre cinema over the past four decades, presents its first event with The Influence of the Canadian Tax Shelter Films, featuring a line-up of five films, concluding with David Cronenberg’s cult classic, Videodrome. Roxy Bar and Screen, May 20th, 3.00 pm to 11.00 pm, £8 (whole day) / £3 (individual films)
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