TOP

21+ Fabulous Things to Discover this February

21+ Fabulous Things to Discover this February

The best of local theatre, art and music, and all the brilliant community events in SW London and Surrey

Pictured: Kew Gardens Orchid Festival (c) RBG Kew

Theatre

1 Play On!

Lyric Hammersmith, 28 January – 22 February

Set in the jazz scene of New York’s Cotton Club, this stylish retelling of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night fuses the thrilling music of Duke Ellington with street dance choreography

2 Dracula

Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Guildford, 4-8 February

As a new shadow looms large over England, a small group of young men and women, led by Professor Van Helsing, are plunged into an epic struggle for survival. Don’t miss this gripping new adaptation of Bram Stoker’s classic.

3 Ordinary Madness

Riverside Studios, Hammersmith, 8 February – 9 March

Inspired by the life and works of legendary writer Charles Bukowski, this gritty play digs deep into urban life and American society of the 1950s-1970s.

4 Boys from the Blackstuff

Richmond Theatre, 11-15 February

This powerful new adaptation of Alan Bleasdale’s BAFTA award-winning TV series is coming to Richmond direct from the National Theatre and West End.

5 Jon Culshaw: Imposter Syndrome

Dorking Halls, 12 February

The star of BBC Radio 4’s Dead Ringers, BBC One’s The Impressions Show and Channel 4’s Partygate takes his brand new show on the road following a completely sold out and critically acclaimed season at the Edinburgh Festival.

6 The Koala Who Could

Rose Theatre, Kingston,13-23 February

Based on the book by Rachel Bright & Jim Field, this is an empowering and hilarious story about embracing change — whether we like it or not. Suitable for the whole family.

7 The Pea and the Princess

Polka Theatre, Wimbledon, 15 February – 30 March

Children can leap into the world of a Ninja Princess on mission, a practical Prince concocting the best inventions, a Queen with a slightly worrying crown obsession, and a very green baddy. For ages 3-7 years.

8 Cruel Intentions

New Wimbledon Theatre, 25 February – 1 March

Based on the iconic film, this smash-hit musical is coming to Wimbledon after sell-out seasons in London and New York.

9 Calamity Jane

New Victoria Theatre, Woking, 25 February – 1 March

Starring Carrie Hope Fletcher, this new production of the musical comedy classic follows the fearless sharpshooter Calamity Jane as she keeps the peace in the town of Deadwood, and falls in love…

More fab things to do:

Arts & Culture

1 Orchid Festival

Kew Gardens, Richmond, 1 February – 2 March

Kew’s iconic Orchid Festival returns in 2025 to brighten up the winter months. Taking over the Princess of Wales Conservatory, the 29th Orchid festival draws inspiration from the unique flora and fauna of Peru.

2 The Art Deco Trio

Banstead Community Hall, 8 February

The Art Deco Trio performs classical and popular music with a bold jazz influence. They will be performing their Art Deco-inspired repertoire at Banstead Community Hall this month.

3 The Amadeus Myth: Piecing Together the Real Mozart

Sacred Heart Church Hall, Wimbledon, 12 February

This lecture, featuring musical examples and contemporary portraits, will strip away some of the myths and piece together the real Amadeus Mozart.

4 Flowers – Flora in Contemporary Art and Culture

Saatchi Gallery, Chelsea, 12 February – 5 May

Large-scale installations, original art, photography, fashion, archival objects and graphic design exploring the influence of flowers on creativity and human expression.

5 Light Up Kingston

Kingston Town Centre, 14-23 February

Light Up Kingston is a gorgeous light experience offering several unique light installations situated throughout the town centre

6 Imagine Festival

Southbank Centre, 18-23 February

The Imagine programme offers cultural experiences for children, from music to storytelling, comedy, poetry, dance, visual arts and a range of free events, bringing families together to spark their imaginations.

Image credit: Matt Crockett

7 Family Flower Arranging & Jar Painting

Chelsea Physic Garden, 19 February

To celebrate the first beginnings of spring, design and paint your own glass jar and learn how to arrange flowers.

See what’s on at your local theatres:

Outdoor fun

1 Fairy Tale Trail

Painshill, 8 February – 2 March

Enjoy family fun on an adventure through the delightful landscape of Painshill to discover some of your favourite fairy tale characters.

2 Guess How Much I Love You Trail

RHS Garden Wisley, 15-23 February

Join in the adventure with Little Nutbrown Hare and Big Nutbrown Hare on a family trail. Take part in craft and planting activities, join the Education Team for a guided walk and listen to stories.

(c) National Trust Images / Megan Taylor

4 Mudfest

WWT London Wetland Centre, Barnes, 15-23 February

With hands-on activities for all ages and abilities, everyone can connect with nature and discover the magical powers of mud for wildlife and play

5 Run Reigate

Gatton Park, 23 February

Run Reigate is back with an exciting 5k and 10k multi-terrain loop through Gatton Park’s beautiful parkland. A dedicated Canicross event starts at 8.30am and the trail runners set off at 10am.