The celebrations are part of the ‘Welcome to Wandsworth’ scheme, which continues into spring with a line-up spanning cabaret, grassroots gigs, theatre, visual arts, and more.
Cllr 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!”
January’s highlights include the Palace of Varieties at Clapham Grand on January 29, marking 125 years of the historic venue with a night of comedy, cabaret, music, and drag.
In theatre, the Manchester-based collective Quarantine will take over Battersea Arts Centre (BAC) from February 16 to March 14 with A Public Address.
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This project includes a new two-part work titled why I am and why I am not and a London premiere of The People of Lavender Hill, an audio walk exploring the iconic street.
Cafés within a mile of Battersea Arts Centre will also host No Such Thing, Quarantine’s most intimate production, offering one-on-one conversations over lunch, guided by a curated menu of questions.
The programme also includes the 12-hour durational piece 12 Last Songs, inviting participants from across Wandsworth to take part in a paid on-stage shift exploring the meaning of work.
In visual arts, the European premiere of Sonia Boyce’s film Carmen will screen at World Heart Beat on March 3. Carmen honours the life and legacy of Dame Carmen Munroe, the trailblazing Guyanese-British actress and activist who made a lasting impact on British theatre and television.
February’s LGBTQ+ History Month events include The Juicy Couture Vogue Ball at Clapham Grand on February 22, a weekend highlight supported by the borough’s Black History 365 Grants programme.
A New Way Vogue Workshop led by Sofi Juicy Couture takes place on February 20. An open ballroom session follows on February 21 for those curious about the scene, offering insight into the UK ballroom and European Kiki culture.
The ball itself will pay tribute to the Disney Channel’s 90s and 00s golden era, with each category inspired by a beloved show or movie.
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Art lovers can explore the Queer Wandsworth exhibition at BAC from February 3 to 21 and at Wandsworth Town Hall from February 4 to 28. The exhibition will celebrate both historic and contemporary queer life in the borough through stories, art, and archival material.
Music events include Bloodlines & Basslines On Da Beat, a showcase of rising talent from On Da Beat’s Writing Camp, and Wandsworth Live, a month-long celebration of the borough’s independent music venues. The Rock The Grand band competition will culminate with a final at the Clapham Grand on March 2.
The Tooting Food Festival takes place on February 14 and 15 at Tooting Market and Broadway Market. The festival will celebrate the area’s diverse food culture and include live music, heritage tours, and plenty of street food.
Wandsworth’s year as London Borough of Culture wraps up with The Beat Goes On, a finale event at Battersea Power Station on March 21. 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.”
