Arts & Entertainment

* We will start with Coram's fields, where 200 years ago philanthropist Captain Thomas Coram, appalled by he many homeless youths living in the streets, built a “hospital for the maintenance and education of the exposed and deserted young children”. It's often thought that this place might have inspired Dickens to write Oliver Twist. * We will then proceed to Lambs Conduit Street, Grays Inn, Lincoln's Inn fields, Sir John Soane's Museum, , Seven Stars pub, Maughan Library and Dr Johnson's House. * If it's not too busy, we will pop in Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese pub, just to get the feel of the place that was frequented by the likes of Dickens, Dr Johnson, Voltaire, Conan Doyle, Mark Twain and Oscar Wilde. * We will then carry on by the Royal Courts of Justice, this is where the west limit of the City of London is. We will then proceed to see the last Inns of Court – the Middle Temple. This is where Dickens studied the whole time whilst he was writing Bleak House. * Finally, we will see 2 Temple place, commissioned by and built for William Waldorf Astor in the 1890s. They have a free exhibition here called The Weight of Being running from 24th January to 19 April 2026, Tuesday-Sunday. * We will finnish our walk at the Temple tube station (district line). Optional lunch/drinks at the end of the walk What to bring: Comfortable footwear Water Photo-taking gadgets and chargers An umbrella just in case (it's London after all) The walk is free for members who have subscribed for an annual membership. For other members the fee is £5 cash/card on arrival to contribute towards the organiser's meetup fees and costs. The annual pass option is £15 payable by cash/card on the day. This will provide access to at least 40 walks per year (members are welcome to bring a guest to each event). All walks are free for the NHS staff (also welcome to bring a guest). ***'No Show' Policy:*** *If the member replied 'yes' but did not attend the event, did not update the RSVP and did not inform the organisers on 3 occasions – this triggers an automatic removal from the group. That's once for events with a waiting list.*

Come along on Saturday 7th February for a tour of the Royal Albert Hall! **About the event** The Royal Albert Hall was built to fulfil the vision of Prince Albert (Queen Victoria's consort) of a *"Central Hall' that would be used to promote understanding and appreciation of the Arts and Sciences and would stand at the heart of the South Kensington estate, surrounded by museums and places of learning".* The Hall is a Grade I Listed building; and has been in continuous use since it opened in March 1871. It can seat 5,272 people. The list of famous performers and world figures who have appeared at the Royal Albert Hall since it opened is unrivalled. Wagner, Verdi and Elgar conducted the first UK performance of their own works on its concert platform. The list of popular music artists who have performed here includes Frank Sinatra, Liza Minnelli, Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, Oscar Peterson, The Who, Led Zeppelin, Eric Clapton, Sting and Elton John. Among leading world figures who have spoken at the Hall are The Queen, Sir Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela, His Holiness The Dalai Lama and Albert Einstein. It has also been used to host film premiere's as well as sporting events like tennis and boxing. We are having a 1h tour of the Royal Albert Hall. **Cost** Tour cost is £17 for Full Members & £19 for everyone else (payable by cash or credit card on the day). **If you wish to pay in advance:** \- Bank transfer: TSB Bank plc\, sort code: 77\-66\-65\, account no: 00030809\, Account name: Cultureseekers \- Credit card: \([https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QDOWSSXO](https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QDOWSSXO)) \- PayPal \- [https://www.paypal.com/uk/](https://www.paypal.com/uk/), ‘send a payment’ to [general@cultureseekers.org](mailto:general@cultureseekers.org) and click on the ‘Goods & Services’ option and change it to ‘Friends & Family’, as this avoids a charge from PayPal. **Become a Full Member** To become a Full Member (£14 a year), either: \- Pay cash at an event \- Pay via Bank Transfer \(\(TSB Bank plc\, Sort code: 77\-66\-65\, Account no: 00030809, Account name: Cultureseekers)) \- Pay via credit card on the day or in advance \([https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QLAX8AUI](https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QLAX8AUI)) \- Pay via PayPal\, send a payment to general@cultureseekers\.org\, using the ‘Friends & Family’ option Benefits of becoming a Full Member [here...](https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/531979527/) **Afterwards** After we will head to the hall's cafe at 2:00pm for a chat over a drink. If you can make it, please come to the cafe afterwards, as its a great way to meet and get to know others after the visit. Please note, we only wait outside the station for 10 minutes after the advertised meeting time, so please be early or on time. If you can't see us outside the station, please text. Look out for the red and blue 'London Cultureseekers' group sign. Hope to see you there! Robert 07905 901 834 (prefer text) ***On the day, if you can’t make the visit, just change your RSVP to No or text me to say you can’t make it.*** ***Please don’t post any messages in the comments that you can’t make it, as this generates spam for everyone else.*** *Please make sure you are aware of the group rules here before RSVPing -* ***[https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/523578875/Group_Rules/](https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/523578875/Group_Rules/)***

If you’re the kind of person who blurts out “Wait, I didn’t know that!” every time you learn a juicy bit of infor in the entertainment industry, then this one's for you. Join an exclusive, insider showbiz and entertainment walk led by someone who’s lived inside the industry - a radio music presentator and club DJ, a former journalist, an advertising / media agency executive, a red-carpet luxury fashion brand strategist and a failed boy band muscian (I still got the hair though!) This 90 mins backstage wander will take you straight through London’s creative arts & entertainment industry showbiz bloodstream. We’re talking broadcasting nerve centres, global pop stars, legendary stages, Hollywood hideouts, iconic comedy clubs, recording studios, fashion designers, radio powerhouses, and the secret corners where reputations are negotiated over overpriced cocktails — all set against the music soundtrack of a city that’s launched everything from Britpop to boybands to global club culture. You’ll hear where the UK’s biggest radio stations broke chart‑toppers, where stars of the film and stage made their name, how certain streets shaped entire genres, how comedians went from dingy basements to national treasures, and why London’s music scene has always been the city’s loudest, messiest, most influential creative engine in the world This free tour will unapologetically appeal to: * **Pop‑culture lovers** who treat celebrity interviews and album drops like sacred texts * **Creatives & media people** who love a bit of insider sparkle and know the difference between a PR stunt and a genuine cultural moment * **Culture lovers** who collect fun facts from music, film, art and can name their favourite live performance of all time * **People working in or consuming** **films, theatre, radio, music, comedy, TV, dance, media, advertising**, **performing arts** and everything in between * Anyone craving something authentic, fun, and just the right amount of chaotic fabulous Expect a crowd that gets excited about the things normal people pretend not to care about — iconic ad campaigns, legendary performances, scandalous headlines, radio gossip, film magic, music history, and the beautiful mess of how culture actually gets made. You’ll walk, you’ll laugh, you’ll learn things you absolutely did not expect, and you’ll leave feeling like you’ve unlocked a secret level of London — the one where the stories, the scandals, and the soundtracks all collide Lucas — The Entertainment Mongul

Looking for a relaxed weekend vibe and a chance to meet open-minded, international people in London? Whether you’re new to the city or just want great conversation over coffee, our café social is the perfect way to ease into your Saturday. After the cafe we have the option for a walk or visiting a museum/gallery nearby together! **✨ What to Expect:** • A welcoming table or 2 at a cosy café. • Mostly age 20s to 30s young professionals, grad students, creatives, internationals. • Low-pressure, real conversations and occasional hosted discussions - no awkward silence. • Afterwards: option for a relaxed open tour or walk in the area after the cafe! **🕑 Time & Place:** Arrive anytime between **2:00–4:00 PM** We'll meet in a café around London, check the map pin closer to the event date. There’s **no event fee,** just buy some drink and/or snack from the cafe for the time you spend there. **🌍 Who It’s For:** • 20s & 30s: young professionals, grad students, creatives, internationals • People who enjoy **meaningful chats** more than loud bars • Solo newcomers, returning members, and plus-ones are all welcome We always encourage diverse, inclusive and equal representation at our events ❤️ **🤝 Why We Do This:** Our café socials are part of the **World Citizens** community—a non-commercial, volunteer-run group for those who value openness, culture, and real connection. Many regulars first meet here before joining our **Friday Socials** and other bigger events! **💬 New? Nervous? No worries!** We’ve all been new once. Our volunteer hosts are friendly and happy to introduce you. Just come as you are! **🔗 Love this vibe? Join us for more:** • 🎉 **Friday Night Socials** in Central London • 🎨 **Walks, museum visits & cultural outings** See all upcoming events here: 👉 [https://www.meetup.com/worldcitizen/events/](https://www.meetup.com/worldcitizen/events/) **DISCLAIMER:** We are a 100% volunteer-run team. Despite careful planning and structure this is a private informal activity, so we cannot be liable for any damage or inconvenience. However, we put safety and comfort first. We take all complaints seriously, and take severe action against any form of harassment, verbal or non-verbal, and anti-social behaviour. We collaborate with the police if needed. We take photos and videos which may include you to help promote the community in line with GDPR Data Protection law, as well as stock photos from Pexels or Unsplash. We may restrict or prioritize guests at our own discretion for safety, quality and logistics reasons. While our admin decisions may not always be perfect we ask that you follow our decisions first and raise any disputes to discuss with us later and privately. By attending you understand, agree with and respect all terms of this disclaimer.

**Join us for an exciting Art Exhibition hosted by the Black Art Enthusiasts Collective.** **This is not a free event details on how to purchase tickets below.** **Nigerian Modernism:** Nigerian Modernism tells the story of artistic networks which spanned Zaria, Ibadan, Lagos and Enugu, as well as London, Munich and Paris. Through groups like the Zaria Art Society and Mbari Artists' and Writers' Club, they fused Nigerian, African and European techniques and traditions to create vibrant, multidimensional works. After exploring the exhibition we will have a discussion after. [Purchase tickets here](https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/nigerian-modernism?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Grant_Exhibition_TM_Nigerian-Modernism&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22693752224&gbraid=0AAAAADxb_sRo4W45srSTRKSYseCD6Lbsu&gclid=CjwKCAiAlfvIBhA6EiwAcErpydq4Me425fwZSdmSPhOAptKWeNvyx9yEGOq9e6QhPrhbkKZu-sUhBxoCrj8QAvD_BwE) **Please arrive promptly at 13.45 pm to go in at 2pm**

YOU MUST BUY AN EVENTBRITE TICKET UNLESS YOU TOOK PART IN THE CURRENT 1 MONTH JAM: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/film-jam-sunday-screening-and-social-feb-tickets-1981570943033 The London Film-Jam Social (free) is an opportunity to meet and chat with other Jammers both past, present and future as well as to have a look at what we've been up to! Come along and see what we are all about or just catch up with old friends an relive those crazy days of filmmaking, or just chat about films in general. We'll start the night at about 6.00 by showing a few films made at previous Jams and then there will be the much awaited Premieres of the 1 Month Film Jam Films. After that everyone can mingle for a few hours to get know each other. Everybody welcome! Venue: Upstairs at The Hercules, 2 Kennington Road, London, SE1 7BL. Very easy to get to..... 5 Minutes walk from Waterloo or just over the road from Lambeth North Tube Station. More tickets here : [Film Jam Social \(Apr\) Tickets\, Tue 30 Apr 2024 at 17:30 \| Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/film-jam-social-apr-tickets-879388172697?aff=oddtdtcreator) Free Event on Meetup Vegan food available 18+ Event

Hi all, Join us for a photo walk in the vibrant Brick Lane area of London! We’ll start with a 15-minute coffee break to meet and connect, setting the tone for a relaxed and enjoyable walk. From there, we’ll wander through the historic Spitalfields Market, capturing its unique atmosphere and bustling charm. From there, we’ll make our way to the iconic Brick Lane, a hotspot for street art, fascinating local characters, and vibrant energy. To wrap up the day, we’ll head to a pub to relax, share images and stories, and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of this iconic area. Grab your camera and join us for an inspiring day of photography. **Meeting Point** Café Noxy brothers, inside Spitalfields Market Corner Unit, Spitalfields Market, 105 Commercial Street, London E1 6BG. How to find the café? Take the commercial street entrance facing The ten bels pub. The café is on a corner inside the market. **Endpoint** A pub at Brick Lane, location TBC. **Cost** The cost for this photo walk is £10 plus fees. Also (cheaper) bookable on: https://www.photowalk.me/photowalk/street-art-stories-exploring-brick-lane-and-beyond-1-2 **Recommendations** The focus of this walk will be on handheld street photography, so feel free to bring any camera or smartphone—just make sure your batteries are fully charged. Since we’ll be walking, please wear appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes. It’s also a good idea to check the TFL website for travel updates before heading out. **Bad Weather** If the weather is less than ideal, the walk will still go ahead in the rain, with some adjustments to the route to find shelter if possible. The event will only be cancelled by the organiser in case of severe weather conditions. **Experience** No prior experience is necessary—everyone is welcome! While there will be limited time for technical support, I’m happy to offer creative advice during the walk. **Contact.** No Whats app, phone and text only. 07895295284

Yet another great walk of hidden london led by Barrie, this time we visit Clerkenwell and discover a number of hidden gems CLERKENWELL.........THE QUIET VILLAGE Jewellery, some special churches and viva Italia Clerkenwell is one of those places one drives past, travels through but rarely actually visits. Well this walk shows you what you have been missing So close to the city, so close to central London but more than any other part of London it seems to retain its village atmosphere, with a serenity that is in contrast to its location. Unless you are of Italian descent it's doubtful you will know of the area's connection with Italian immigration in the nineteenth century, so much history, so much to learn about. This walk is also so good for romancing couples as you can get to know each other in one of the many restaurants on the best food street in London, buy a ring in the city's jewellery quarter then get married in one of its great churches, and thats not all. Find out about the postal system, see iconic social housing and visit where magicians go to buy their tricks, ands last but not least find out why its actually called Clerkenwell! The walk will be the usual £14 cash on the day and takes a bit over two hours but time will fly on this great tour. Any questions or queries contact Barrie on 07860 911393 or bazaway@aol.com JOIN OUR 45+ NOT GRUMPY FACEBOOK COMMUNITY <[https://www.facebook.com/45plusnotgrumpy/](https://www.facebook.com/45plusnotgrumpy/)>

**IMPORTANT UPDATE THIS EVENT HAS BEEN MOVED FROM THE 7th TO THE 15th FEB SAME TIME. APOLOGIES FOR ANY INCONVENIENCE. ** **🎟️This is a free event but we need to book a time slot for our visit. Please book for 1.45pm on the 15th February on the link below: ** [Book your free ticket here.](https://my.sciencemuseum.org.uk/events?view=calendar&kid=441) 
We will meet at 1.30pm at the museum entrance and wait 10-15 mins for everyone to arrive. 
**Please update your RSVP if you can’t make it.** This Saturday we’ll be visiting two powerful free exhibitions ⬇️ **Exhibit 1** 📸 This photography exhibition will take us deep into the Pantanal, the world’s largest wetland and one of the planet’s most biodiverse regions. Through the lens of acclaimed documentary photographers Lalo de Almeida and Luciano Candisani, the exhibition captures the Pantanal in all its fragile beauty: lush waterways, abundant wildlife, and moments of quiet wonder. At the same time, the images confront the harsh reality facing this ecosystem today. Deforestation, intensive agriculture, drought and catastrophic wildfires sit in stark contrast to the wetland’s natural richness, creating a moving visual dialogue between abundance and loss. With over 60 striking photographs, the exhibition is both visually arresting and emotionally charged - a reminder of what’s at stake, and why it matters. **Exhibit 2** 🚀 I’m sure you’re all familiar with the museum’s space gallery however there’s apparently new things to see! We will make a quick visit to the brand-new Space gallery, a free exhibition celebrating human achievement in space travel - past, present, and future. We are promised iconic spacecraft and remarkable objects up close, from the Apollo 10 and Soyuz capsules displayed side by side for the first time, to the RL10 rocket engine that has powered missions across the solar system. Other highlights include Neil Armstrong’s Apollo 11 radio headset, the Sokol spacesuit worn by Helen Sharman, the first Brit in space, and a three-billion-year-old lunar rock from Apollo 15. 
☕️ We will take about 1 hour to go through the exhibits then we will go for coffee somewhere inside the museum or nearby.

Everyone welcome 😊

Important to note:

1. We typically socialise at cafés after the exhibit, nice, independent ones, not chains and not at pubs. If the event is late on a Saturday we go to a nice bar/pub for drinks after. This meetup is inclusive and everyone is welcome to join.
2. If you get there before everyone and you're not sure what to do or where we are, post a comment on here and I will let you know our whereabouts.
3. Once we go in we may separate, feel free to explore the exhibit by yourself, we don't have to be together. Some people like chatting to others while exploring and other people prefer to be with their own thoughts. You are welcome to express yourself and do whatever helps you feel free.

4. If you are late or if you’ve booked for an earlier or later time don’t worry just go in and you’ll find us inside. Keep an eye on the comments as I’ll be posting updates.

Capture the colour and character of the tropics — paint vibrant birds with elegance, energy, and life. Step into a world of brilliant colour and natural beauty in this welcoming watercolour workshop with **Ann Mackowski** — award-winning artist, exhibitor with the **Royal Society of Painters in Watercolours**, and former contestant on **Sky Landscape Artist of the Year**. Perfect for **absolute beginners and seasoned painters alike**, this relaxed and encouraging session introduces you to the joy of painting tropical birds in watercolour. Drawing inspiration from the rich traditions of artists like **John James Audubon**, **Maria Sibylla Merian**, and **Edward Lear**, Ann will help you capture both the beauty and personality of these exotic creatures. Through **gentle, follow-along demonstrations**, Ann will guide you step by step — from sketching simple shapes to layering luminous colour and adding expressive details. You’ll explore how to suggest texture in feathers, balance vivid hues, and compose your painting so that your bird feels alive within its tropical setting. All **materials are provided**, so you can simply arrive, relax, and paint — no experience needed. Come ready to experiment, learn, and enjoy the process in supportive, creative company. **You will learn:** * How to sketch bird forms with confidence, even as a beginner * Easy, achievable watercolour techniques for feathers and foliage * How to mix bright tropical colours while keeping them fresh and luminous * Simple tips for creating balance and harmony in your composition * How to bring character and energy to your bird through expressive brushwork All supplies are included, including vivid photo references and high quality watercolour brushes and supplies. Prepare to return home with several wall worthy works! Midway through there will be a tea break and a chance to get to know your fellow artists! Whether it’s your very first time picking up a brush or you’re looking to expand your watercolour skills, this class offers an uplifting space to explore the natural world — one vibrant brushstroke at a time.

Let's check out a Popular Astronomy and Science Based Film at COSI Science Center on their HUGE 360 Degree 4K Spherical Dome Screen Theater, in which is touring the nation and has already sold over 10,000 tickets! COSI is one of the leading Science Centers in America. Alan Watts was one of the Most Influential Amateur Astronomers of the 20th Century and held fascinating views of the Galaxy. Tickets are only $33 plus a small fee and taxes and can be purchased here: [Trust the Universe: Immersive Dome Show](https://www.sphericalpictures.com/tickets) PLEASE purchase tickets for the 8:15 PM Feature on Friday, February 13. There seem to be at least 10 tickets left, possibly more. We should be able to sit together in the same row or at least in the general section. This is an exciting chance to view actual footage of the Solar System on a Large 4k Resolution Screen plus added in Cosmological and Astronomical Related Philosophy! We will plan on meeting at about 7:50 PM by the Atomic Cafe on the first Floor of COSI, where the Movie Theater is located, in order to give us time before the show starts to purchase refreshments. Parking is available at the COSI Garage and in the area on side streets and adjacent garages. We can also walk somewhere in the area and get food afterwards, if anyone wants to do so. Thanks and hope to see you come out!

We are a real world Martial arts group. \ Called DO JUNG ISHU (the art of fighting) \ Based off of Jeet kune do we just continued where Bruce Lee left off. \ We have been around a while. \ We are donation based. Every week we get together and work technical skills and live pressure testing. \ Almost all of the instructors have been in everything from altercations in the real world to the ring and some still compete in the cage. \ If you want to take your skills up, improve your confidence, gain self defense skills, get in better shape, test yourself or just want to kill some time and possibly get hit a bit come on down. \ We will be located at 3923 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214 inside the whetstone rec center in the auditorium, upstairs in classroom B or outside in the grass between the playground and horseshoe area. our instructors are normally in a black and red art of fighting shirt \ if you can not find us call or text me at 6143570295 Saturday 1pm Wednesday 5:30pm From Age 16 and up. attendees under the age of 18 must have a guardian with them. \ \ You must have a free leisure card for the rec center and must be registered for our class specifically .\ Wear workout clothing \ Bring a MOUTHPIECE! \ WE HAVE GLOVES. \ Hope to see you soon :-).\ We are run off of donations. \ let me know if you have any questions :)

Join us as we get together to see the steamy-romance-period-drama, WUTHERING HEIGHTS. Director Emerald Fennell gives us her take on the romance between Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw from the classic Emily Bronte novel. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: The film tells a passionate and tumultuous love story set against the backdrop of the Yorkshire moors, exploring the intense and destructive relationship between Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw. The film is directed by Emerald Fennell (Promising Young Woman, Saltburn) and is loosely based on the classic novel by Emily Bronte. It stars Margot Robbie, Jacob Elordi, Alison Oliver, Owen Cooper and Hong Chau! TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fLCdIYShEQ PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing and will meet inside the lobby area about 30 minutes before the show begins. Advance ticket purchase not required for this theater but early arrival is advised! Be sure to mention you’re with the Movie Group for admission and concession discounts! And, after the movie, don’t miss the best part of the night – food and drinks at the nearby Rusty Bucket! Complete details will be confirmed/announced as the date gets closer! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

Join us for a CMG Discount Tuesday event to see the hilarious, action-packed and absolutely-bonkers-looking sci-fi-action-comedy, GOOD LUCK, HAVE FUN, DON’T DIE! The film follows a man from the future who recruits diners at an LA restaurant to help combat rogue AI. Here’s a description, trailer and our plan for this event: GOOD LUCK, HAVE FUN, DON’T DIE: A man from the future arrives at a diner in Los Angeles where he must recruit the precise combination of disgruntled patrons to join him on a one-night quest to save the world from the terminal threat of a rogue artificial intelligence. The film is directed by Gore Verbinski (Pirates of the Caribbean series) and stars Sam Rockwell, Haley Lu Richardson, Michael Peña, Zazie Beetz, Asim Chaudhry, Tom Taylor, and Juno Temple. TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MkFW7BZyqkI EARLY BUZZ AND REVIEWS: Early reviews have been stellar with the film earning a 94% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes! “It offers laughs, thrills, and it’s a thinker; you will not be disappointed.” It’s a “laugh-filled yet incredibly dark and poignant fever dream that pleads for a safer AI tomorrow” and director Gore Verbinski's “command over utter chaos is nothing short of marvelous!” PLAN: Please purchase your ticket for the 6:20pm showing and meet in the bar area between 5:45 and 6:00pm! A smaller theater so advance ticket purchase as soon as possible is advised! (If we fill it up, we can sometimes persuade them to move it to a larger theater.) One you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments below. Should be a fun one, Dan