FOCUS Favourites January 2019
Happy 2019 to all our members! January is here, full of new year's resolutions. Living London to the fullest should top the list. Here are our suggestions and don't forget our members' offers including a special offer for dinner at trendy restaurant Ella Canta in Mayfair and complimentary Private View tickets for the London Art Fair.
Children: Bumpers cars on ice 27 December - 6 January
Take your kids to London’s only bumper cars on ice and you will be pouncing with joy. Taking place at London’s Elephant and Castle Ice Rink, this event is something a little different to enjoy with your children. Kids must be 6 or older, but for £6 they can ride bumper cars on ice. This is an unforgettable experience for kids and adults alike, with the venue offering food, music and other fun activities for the whole family to enjoy.
Dance: Swan Lake at the Coliseum
3-16 January
The world renowned national theatre is bringing you the production of the iconic Swan Lake in January. The three hour timeless ballet allows the audience to experience Tchaikovsky’s music played by the English Ballet Philharmonic. The ballet, directed by Derek Deane is a classic piece which is considered one of the best productions of Swan Lake and allows the audience to get one step closer to the magic we call dance.
Festival: The London International Mime Festival
9 January - 3 February
Taking place at Sadler’s Wells as well as the Barbican theatre, this year the International Mime Festival is returning. This unique event showcases world renowned circus, dance, theatre and much more! Some of the best UK artists come to show off their latest spectacular talents. Directed by Helen Lannaghan and Joseph Seelig, it is a show that is not to be missed and definitely worthwhile for parents and children alike.
Not to be missed: Winter Lights Festival at Canary Wharf
15-26 January
A stunning showcase of neon, LED, and everything illuminated, the festival sees light artists from across Europe gather in London, to show what an unbridled imagination and state of the art light technology can do.
The lights bring a different view on the business district and gives it a unique glow. Installations and interactive activities allow for fun for the whole family. The installations will illuminate from 5pm to 10pm.
Art: London Art Fair 2019
16-20 January
This year the Business Design Centre is celebrating its 31st year of the London Art Fair! This fair attracts more than 100 galleries to showcase various artworks from the 20th Century onwards. They exhibit some of the leading artists of our day as well as various sections focusing on newer artists and their development. Located in Islington, this is an experience for all levels of art lovers and is really worthwhile! Check our members' offers for your complimentary private view tickets.
Theatre: When we have sufficiently tortured each other 16 January- 2 March
Cate Blanchett is a well known name in the movie industry, however now she is making her debut in the National Theatre. This is a brand new play which is based on the novel: Pamela. This play explores gender roles in the 18th Century, exploring sexual domination, violence as well as resistance in everyday lives. Whilst tickets may be sought after, everyone has an equal chance by entering a ballot to receive tickets.
Hidden Gem: Secret Theatre Project
22 JAN 19 – 03 MAR 19
Coming to you from a secret location, this immersive experience involves the audience to decide the fate of the accused. The theatre revolves around a serial killer that the police believe they have caught… However, is it the right man? Is he guilty? That is for the audience to decide through interviewing possibilities, seeing the murder scene and much more! A great night out, with the possibility of dinner beforehand awaits, coming straight from Singapore this is a hidden gem that is a must!
Sport: World Championship of Ping Pong, Alexandra Palace, London
26th - 27th January
Now into its seventh year at the iconic Alexandra Palace, London, the World Championship is a throwback to the early days of table tennis and is catapulting ping pong into the big league and onto the international television stage. The action is fast and furious, with the emphasis on speed, skill and shot-making – only the very best will see it through the Sunday night’s closing stages.
Day trip: Hogwarts in the Snow
until 27 January
Everyone knows the classic movie, Harry Potter and it is well known that you can visit the studio. However, Warner Bros is celebrating the festive season with a special snow edition! Showcasing Hogwarts in winter with the Yule Ball, snow covered stage pieces and the possibility of Dinner in the Great Hall. Located just above Watford, this is a short train ride away from Central London and a great experience for all.
Restaurant: Din Tai Fung London
The world famous Din Tai Fung comes to London. It opened its first UK restaurant on December 5th, with queues as long as 5 hours. However, now that the hype has calmed down one can enjoy the iconic dumplings, especially the xiaolongbao in Covent Garden. This restaurant has a no reservation policy so if you plan to go at dinner time, make sure to go early not to miss out on the unbelievable experience.
Book in advance: London Classic Car Show
14-17 February
The show is back again for another year, showcasing special cars, limited editions and various brand prototyping their vehicles. Taking place at the Excel Centre, the classic car show displays some of the best cars that have ever been created. Book tickets in advance to look around, interact and listen to some of the greatest car personas speak!