The best in gigs, exhibitions, festivals and fun events to help say farewell to Summer, and howdy to Autumn
4th – 14th September: Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater (Sadler’s Wells, London)
The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has been a staple of the arts in the US for over 60 years and is recognised by US Congressional resolution as a vital American ‘Cultural Ambassador to the World’, promoting the uniqueness of the African-American cultural experience. Now, 32 astonishing dancers will bring a series of programmes to London as part of their 60th anniversary celebrations, and in tribute to the founder, Ailey. It’s a chance to watch some truly world-class performers in action – truly inspirational, especially for Black dancers and dancers of colour. sadlerswells.com
13th – 15th September: Africa Utopia (Southbank Centre, London)
For the seventh year running, the Southbank Centre will host the beautifully diverse festival that is Africa Utopia – a celebration of art and culture from Africa and the diaspora. This year, there’s a lineup of leading artists and voices taking part, including Akala, Clara Amfo, Nathalie Emmanuel and Denise Lewis – all to contribute towards three days of music, comedy, performance, literature, fashion, talks, debates, workshops and free activity. southbankcentre.co.uk
From 19th Sept: Daliso Chaponda (national tour)
Following his journey to the finals of Britain’s Got Talent in 2017, Malawi’s ‘first comedian’ Daliso Chaponda is taking his humour nationwide. Kicking things off in Darwen and Northampton on 19th and 20th of September, the jokester will bring his new show ‘Blah Blah Blacklist’ to the stage, ruminating on disgraced and blacklisted celebrities who we’re ashamed to have liked in the past, and his own experiences with backlash. With his last tour being a sold-out success, you’d be wise to snap up your tickets while you have the chance! dalisochaponda.seetickets.com
21st Sept: RUSH (Hull Truck Theatre, Hull)
You are cordially invited on a ‘joyous Jamaican journey’ – and through this new narrated musical show, you’ll learn about the development of Reggae music from the arrival of the first Windrush passengers, to the present day. Narrated by comedian and actor John Simmit, the energetic show incorporates a variety of musical styles, including ska, rock steady and dancehall for a night of history and celebration. With an aim to highlight the positive impact of immigration on culture, RUSH comes with a necessary message – at the perfect time. rushtheatrecompany.co.uk
Opens 21st Sept: Otobong Nkanga (Tate St Ives, Cornwall)
Nigerian-born, Belgium-dwelling artist Otobong Nkanga comes to Cornwall with a collection of new works created especially for Tate St Ives. With her multi-disciplinary practice spanning tapestry, drawing, photography and more, Nkanga’s art is exciting and diverse, and focuses on the environment, the use of natural resources for material gain and its consequences. Having had international success with her performance and installation works, Nkanga’s exhibition is definitely one for the art appreciators out there. Closes 5th January 2020. tate.org.uk
27th, 28th & 29th Sept: Joe, Brandy and Dru Hill (London, Birmingham & Manchester)
Warm-up those vocal cords and get your best 90s gear on, stat – this is a night for the lovers of some great R&B, and all in attendance need to be prepared! Joe, Brandy and Dru Hill are combining for three shows around the UK, and going by their past hits alone, it’ll be a show to remember. ticketmaster.co.uk and other ticket retailers
29th Sept: Soul Sessions (EGG LDN, London)
Close out summer with one last day party, courtesy of DJ & production duo Souldynamic. This well-attended party is called one of the best in soulful house, and has fun vibes guaranteed with a roster of London’s finest DJs already confirmed. Held from midday to 11pm, this is an over 25s event for lovers of house! wearesoulsession.com
