21+ Joyful Things to Discover this month
21+ Joyful Things to Discover in January
The best of local theatre, art and music, and all the brilliant community events in SW London and Surrey
Pictured: Murder on the Orient Express – (c) Manuel Harlan
Theatre
1 The Snowy Day
Polka Theatre, Wimbledon, until 2 February
Discover a world blanketed in wonder in this brand-new dance adaptation of ‘The Snowy Day’, inspired by the award-winning picture book by Ezra Jack Keats.
2 10 Nights
Riverside Studios, Hammersmith, 8-26 January
When Yasser decides to take part in itikaf, sleeping and fasting in the mosque for the last ten nights of Ramadan, he soon regrets his decision. But Yasser’s isolation forces him to confront a side of himself he’s been trying to keep hidden.
3 Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Hampton Hill Theatre, 9-11 January
Join young Charlie Bucket on his journey to Willy Wonka’s magical chocolate factory, where Oompa-Loompas, fantastic inventions, and delicious surprises await around every corner.
4 The Girl On The Train
Richmond Theatre,14-18 January
Adapted from Paula Hawkins’ international bestseller, this gripping new thriller tells the story of a woman who becomes a suspect when tragedy hits a couple she watches from a train.
5 Murder on the Orient Express
Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Guildford, 21-25 January
Gripping, tense and cryptic, this new production starring Michael Maloney as Poirot is one of Agatha Christie’s most famous murder mysteries.
6 Ed Byrne: Tragedy Plus Time
Dorking Halls, 22 January
Humour is defined as ‘Tragedy Plus Time.’ Join Ed Byrne as he tests that formula by mining the most tragic event in his life for laughs.
7 The Littlest Yak
Lyric Hammersmith, 25 January
A gentle family show telling the story of an unusual friendship where kindness is rewarded and the ungrateful get their comeuppance.
8 1984
Omnibus Theatre, Clapham, 27 January – 2 February
1984 is a compelling physical theatre adaptation by Slavic actors, set in contemporary Russia and Belarus, illuminating the enduring relevance of George Orwell’s cautionary themes.
9 & Juliet
New Wimbledon Theatre, 27 January – 1 February
Get whisked away on a fabulous journey as Juliet ditches her famous ending for a fresh beginning and a second chance at life and love— her way.
More fab things to do:
Culture & Community
1 K-Women: Celebrating Korean Female Artists
Kingston Museum, until 8 March
In collaboration with Kingston Museum, Korean art group 4482 [SASAPARI] presents an exhibition showcasing inspirational artworks by 17 Korean women artists in Kingston, offering an insight into these artists’ diverse experiences of self-discovery.
2 As We Rise: Photography from the Black Atlantic
Saatchi Gallery, Chelsea, until 20 January
Showcasing photography from African diasporic culture, this exhibition embraces concepts of community, identity, and power, and recognizes the strength, beauty, vulnerability, and diversity of Black life.
3 Living Willow Workshop
Gatton Park, Reigate, 11 January
Natural, workable and inexpensive, willow weaving is one of the most ancient of handicrafts. Head to Gatton Park to learn how willow can be used to make beautiful creations and living fences.
4 Jake Grewal: Under the Same Sky
Studio Voltaire, Clapham, 15 January – 13 April
This exhibition of new works by artist Jake Grewal contains a selection of painting and drawings which develop from his travels in India and Cornwall in 2024.
5 CDARS Wellness Retreat
The Cake and Yoga Club, Wandsworth, 18 January
In fundraising aid of CDARS, championing mental health and wellbeing in SW London, this event will blend reflection and forward-looking energy, perfect for guiding participants through the transitional spirit of the New Year.
6 Wassail through the Orchard
Morden Hall Park, 25 January
Celebrate the orchard’s blessings with music, merriment, and a warming apple Wassail drink, joined by the vibrant rhythms of Black Swan Border Morris.
7 Kokedama Making Workshop
Chelsea Physic Garden, 26 January
Kokedama, which translates to ‘moss ball’ in Japanese, are small plants encased in a moss-covered ball of soil. In this workshop, you will be creating your own kokedama using seasonal snowdrops.
8 A Brush With the Past
Wimbledon Museum, 31 January – 30 March
Explore Wimbledon Common through art in this unique exhibition in partnership with Common Works Gallery, in which ten contemporary artists have each drawn inspiration from a work of art in the museum’s collection.
See what’s on at your local theatres:
Music
1 Dave Thomas Band
The Cabbage Patch, Twickenham, 9 January
With echoes of Eric Clapton and Peter Green, Dave Thomas is one of Britain’s most prolific blues singers and will be performing his latest album, ‘Road to the Blues.’
2 Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club
Rose Theatre, Kingston, 10 January
Direct from London’s world-famous jazz club and combining world class live jazz, narration and rare archive photos and video footage, The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars return to the Rose with a brand new programme of music.
3 Totally Blondie
Esher Theatre, 18 January
This brilliant Blondie tribute band will be performing the rich musical history of the beloved and with an exciting and high-energy show.
4 Sandi Thom
The Boileroom, Guildford, 18 January
With a voice that echoes the soulful resonance of Americana and the gritty authenticity of folk-rock, Sandi Thom brings her talent, storytelling and haunting melodies to The Boileroom.
