Wandsworth, the current Mayor’s London Borough of Culture, is rolling out a packed calendar of creative events and community-led celebrations running through January to March.
The south-west London borough is embracing its cultural title with a mix of cabaret, comedy, music, food and visual arts, including standout events at public spaces, shopping centres and schools.
Kemi Akinola, deputy leader of Wandsworth Council and cabinet member for business, voluntary services and culture, said: “Wandsworth’s year as the Mayor’s London Borough of Culture continues to deliver a programme created with, by and for local people, artists and organisations.
“Connecting vibrant and diverse communities, we’re celebrating the borough’s cultural heritage and iconic landmarks this Spring, while embedding creative wellbeing across the programme.
“For Wandsworth, the impact of this ‘Year to Remember’ will reach far beyond our 12 months as London Borough of Culture, leaving a legacy of connection, pride and opportunity.
“In the meantime, let the celebrations continue!”
The season kicks off on January 29 with Palace of Varieties at Clapham Grand, marking 125 years of the historic venue.
The evening will be filled with comedy, music, cabaret and surprise guests.
Award-winning theatre collective Quarantine will take over Battersea Arts Centre from February 16 to March 14 with A Public Address.
The two-week residency will include a world premiere of their latest work, Why I Am and Why I Am Not.
This two-part piece begins with The Balcony, where 12 individuals will make public speeches from the outside of BAC’s building, and continues with The Rooms, a performance in which the same individuals respond to opposing viewpoints.
Elsewhere, an audio walk titled The People of Lavender Hill will offer listeners a portrait of the street of Lavender Hill.
The visual arts programme features Sonia Boyce’s film Carmen, which will have its European Premiere at World Heart Beat on March 3.
The film pays tribute to Dame Carmen Munroe, the Guyanese-British actress who broke new ground in UK theatre and television.
The borough’s international connections will also be celebrated with Maslenitsa – The Exhibition, a showcase of colour, folklore and food with folk story sharing and interactive workshops.
LGBTQ+ History Month will include The Juicy Couture Vogue Ball and a programme of ballroom workshops, both supported through Wandsworth’s Black History 365 Grants programme.
The New Way Vogue Workshop on February 20 at bbodance will be led by Sofi Juicy Couture.
An Open Ballroom Session will follow on February 21.
The Juicy Couture Vogue Ball will take place February 22 at Clapham Grand.
A Queer Wandsworth exhibition will run at BAC from February 3 to 21 and at Wandsworth Town Hall from February 4 to 28, exploring queer histories and contemporary experiences in the borough.
The borough’s food and music scenes will also be highlighted.
Tooting Food Festival, taking place February 14 and 15, will invite residents and visitors to explore global cuisine and musical heritage.
Live music will be on offer throughout the month as venues take part in Wandsworth Live, supporting emerging talent and championing independent spaces.
Younger audiences can look forward to the Rock The Grand band competition final on March 2 at Clapham Grand.
The season will close March 21 with The Beat Goes On at Battersea Power Station.
Justine Simons OBE, deputy mayor for culture and the creative industries, said: “The next few months will see the glorious finale of Wandsworth’s year as London’s Borough of Culture.
“Theatre, music, visual arts and food will showcase the best of the borough.
“‘Welcome to Wandsworth’ has been a stellar success and will leave a legacy for future generations, helping us build a better London for everyone.”
