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Sunday
August 1 2010


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PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
IN THE UK
2010


for England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland, unless otherwise noted.


  • New Year's Day
    January 1, 2010

  • 2nd January
    (Scotland only)
    January 4, 2010
    (substitute day)

  • St Patrick's Day
    (N. Ireland only)
    March 17, 2010

  • Good Friday
    April 2, 2010

  • Easter Monday
    April 5, 2010

  • Early May Bank Holiday
    May 3, 2010

  • Spring Bank Holiday
    May 31, 2010

  • Battle of the Boyne (Orangemen's Day)
    (N. Ireland only)
    July 12, 2010

  • Summer Bank Holiday
    (Scotland)
    August 2, 2010

  • Summer Bank Holiday
    (England, Wales, N. Ireland)
    August 30, 2010

  • St Andrew's Day
    (Scotland)
    November 30, 2010

  • Christmas Day
    December 25, 2010

  • Boxing Day
    December 27, 2010
WHAT'S ON

DIARY DATES
Britain has an incredible number of interesting and diverse things to do. Here are some of the best, selected for you by The American.

London 2010 Festival of Stamps
various

A year long celebration of stamps, stamp design and postal heritage. The Festival also marks the centenary of the accession of George V, the philatelist king.
www.london2010.org.uk
January 01, 2010 to October 30, 2010
The Sixteen: Choral Pilgrimage
various

The Sixteen is an exceptional group of singers who have entertained and amazed audiences since 2000. The Choral Pilgrimage sees them take early vocal music to 25 venues, mainly cathedrals and other religious buildings, this year focusing on some of the finest music by three leading Tudor composers: John Sheppard, Thomas Tallis and William Byrd. 13 February 5.00pm SI CE Leeds, University Great Hall; 19 February 7.30pm Guildford Cathedral; 12 March 7.30pm CE Oxford, University Church; 13 March 7.30pm Cambridge, St John's College Chapel; 2 April 7.00pm Aldeburgh, Snape Maltings Concert Hall; 10 April 7.30pm CE St Albans Cathedral; 15 April 7.30pm Leicester, Church of St James the Greater; 17 April 7.30pm CE Winchester Cathedral; 13 May 7.30pm Greenwich, Old Royal Naval Chapel; 14 May 7.30pm CE Croydon, Parish Church; 3 June 7.30pm Shrewsbury, St Chad's Church; 4 June 7.30pm SI CE Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral; 5 June 7.30pm SI CE Blackburn Cathedral; 12 June 7.30pm CE Norwich Cathedral; 2 July 7.45pm SI CE Milton Keynes, City Church; 16 July 7.30pm SI York Minster; 3 September 7.30pm CE Southwell Minster; 4 September 7.30pm CE Peterborough Cathedral; 16 September 7.30pm CE Swansea, Collegiate & Parish Church of St Mary; 17 September 7.30pm SI Wells Cathedral; 18 September 7.30pm SI CE Tewkesbury Abbey; 19 September 7.30pm St Asaph Cathedral; 15 October 7.30pm CE Durham Cathedral; 16 October 7.30pm CE Edinburgh, Greyfriars Kirk; 22 October 7.30pm Brighton, St Bartholomew's Church.
www.ncem.co.uk
boxoffice@ncem.co.uk
01904 651 485
February 12, 2010 to October 30, 2010
Victoria & Albert: Art & Love
The Queen's Gallery, Buckingham Palace, London SW1

The first exhibition to explore Queen Victoria and Prince Albert's shared enthusiasm for art, as well as their individual tastes. Opening at The Queen's Gallery, Buckingham Palace in March 2010, Victoria & Albert: Art & Love focuses on the period of Victoria's marriage to Prince Albert, from the time of their engagement in 1839 to the Prince's untimely death in 1861. The exhibition also challenges the popular image of Queen Victoria, the melancholy widow of 40 years. Through 400 works from across the entire Royal Collection, including paintings, drawings, photographs, jewelry and sculpture, Victoria emerges as a romantic and open–minded young woman.
www.royalcollection.org.uk
020 7766 7301
March 19, 2010 to October 31, 2010
70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain at Duxford
Imperial War Museum Duxford, Cambridgeshire CB22 4QR

The Museum celebrates the prominent role played by RAF Duxford in the aerial combat that changed the course of Second World War history. Events include: From mid–April 2010, Duxford and the Battle of Britain. An evocative new photographic exhibition. 15 May, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and the RAF today . Meet the past, celebrate the present. 15 May Celebrate the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. 16 May, Spring Air Show.See the RAF's glorious past in flight alongside its sophisticated contemporary aircraft at the Spring Air Show. 23 July to 31 August, Summer holiday family activities. IWM Duxford's summer holiday activities bring the Battle of Britain to life with a range of daily sessions for all the family. Activities include creating 'make–do–and–mend' peg aircraft, creating notice holders and Spitfire–related items. 4 and 5 September, The Battle of Britain Air Show, Duxford's role in the supreme aerial conflict.An evocative commemoration of the aerial battle that proved the strategic turning point in the Second World War, with a particular focus on the pilots stationed at RAF Duxford who came from across the globe to fight for world freedom. 11 September, Duxford, Spitfires and the Battle of Britain Special Interest Lecture Day. An opportunity to explore the Battle of Britain – its historical context, heroic pilots and iconic aircraft.
www.iwm.org.uk/duxford
01223 835 000
April 15, 2010 to September 11, 2010
Salisbury Cathedral Organ Recital Series
Salisbury Cathedral, Salisbury

The cathedral's prestigious Organ Recital Series 2010 features seven great players: On April 21st it is Ashley Grote from Gloucester Cathedral; May 19th Daniel Cook (Salisbury Cathedral); June 16th Richard Cook (Salisbury Cathedral); July 14th Iain Quinn (Albuquerque); August 11th Graham Barber (Leeds); September 8th Simon Bell (Winchester Cathedral) and October 13th Peter King (Bath Abbey).
www.salisburycathedral.org.uk
April 21, 2010 to October 13, 2010
Fra Angelico to Leonardo: Italian Renaissance drawings
British Museum, Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3DG

The finest group of Italian Renaissance drawings to be seen in this country for over seventy years. Drawn from the two foremost collections in the field, the Gabinetto Disegni e Stampe Uffizi in Florence and the British Museum, the display will chart the increasing importance of drawing during the period between 1400 and 1510, featuring 100 works by amongst others Fra Angelico, Jacopo and Gentile Bellini, Botticelli, Carpaccio, Leonardo da Vinci, Filippo Lippi, Mantegna, Michelangelo, Titian and Verrocchio.
www.britishmuseum.org
+44 (0)20 7323 8000
April 22, 2010 to July 25, 2010
Shakespeare's Globe, 2010 Season
Bankside, London SE1 9DT

This season the Globe looks at some of Shakespeare's most regal rogues and some of his most roguish kings in the two parts of Henry IV, The Merry Wives of Windsor, Henry VIII, and Macbeth. A new play from Howard Brenton takes a fresh look at that evergreen female icon, Anne Boleyn, and the season ends with Bedlam, by Nell Leyshon, which dives into the great gin epidemic of the eighteenth century.
www.shakespeares–globe.org
020 7902 1492
April 23, 2010 to October 01, 2010
Elephant Parade
across London

Look out for over 250 brightly painted life–size elephants located over central London this summer. Brought to you by the charity Elephant Family, the elephants will each be decorated by a different artist or celebrity. The event will be London's biggest outdoor art event on record. It's all to highlight the crisis faced by the endangered Asian elephant.
www.elephantparadelondon.org
020 7580 3184
May 01, 2010 to June 30, 2010
Shakespeare's Globe On Tour
various

Shakespeares Globe Tour 2010, Comedy of Errors, photo by Fiona Moorhead
Comedy of Errors on the Shakespeares Globe Tour 2010, photo: Fiona Moorhead
After their success in 2009, The Comedy of Errors and A Midsummer Night's Dream take to the road again this summer, each visiting Shakespeare's Globe for a limited number of performances. If you can't make it to the Globe then pack your picnic and rug and head for another stunning open–air setting.
www.shakespeares-globe.org/theatre/ontour/
0871 297 0749
May 03, 2010 to September 04, 2010
Well Dressing
Across the Midlands of England

The ancient custom known as Well Dressing is peculiar to England, and Derbyshire and Staffordshire in particular. Well dressings are pictures made from natural materials such as flower petals, seeds, leaves and berries. Most are of a religious nature although more modern themes have been adopted. When the well dressing is at the site of the well it is blessed by the local clergy. Well dressing is thought to have originated from Pagan times, a ritual performed to give thanks for the supply of fresh water. Some claim that the Romans introduced the custom into Britain, others connect the celebration with outbreaks of plague. Check the website for details.
www.welldressing.com
May 03, 2010 to September 11, 2010
Lambeth Palace Library 400th Anniversary Exhibition
Lambeth Palace Library, London, SE1 7JU

Centuries manuscripts, archives and printed books from Lambeth Palace's incomparably rich and diverse collections built up over the past four centuries. Some will be on display for the first time. Includes the 9th century Irish MacDurnan Gospels, a 1455 Gutenberg Bible, books used by King Richard III, King Henry VIII, Queen Katherine of Aragon, Queen Elizabeth I and King Charles I, an exceptionally rare edition of the Babylonian Talmud which survived a Papal Bull ordering all copies to be burnt, and the warrant for the execution of Mary Queen of Scots.
www.lambethpalacelibrary.org
May 17, 2010 to July 23, 2010
Cirque Du Soleil Arena Tour: Saltimbanco
various

Cirque Du Soleil returns to the UK and Ireland with its vibrant signature production Saltimbanco, created by Franco Dragone. It's the first time Cirque du Soleil's longest running major touring show has hit arenas in Britain. After touring the world since 1992, it was reconfigured in 2007 for large arenas. Dates: May 20th–23rd Sheffield Arena; 26th–30th Liverpool Echo Arena; June 2nd to 6th Glasgow SECC; 9th to 14th Manchester MEN Arena; Birmingham NIA June 17th to 27th; Newcastle Metro Radio Arena June 30th to July 4th; Dublin O2 July 7th to 11th and 13th to 18th; Nottingham Trent FM Arena 21st to 25th; London Wembley Arena July 28th to August 1st.
www.livenation.co.uk/www.cirquedusoleil.com
0844 576 5483
May 20, 2010 to August 01, 2010
Saltimbanco
various UK

Cirque du Soleil bring this spectacular, yet baroque, celebration of the urban signature show to Arenas around the UK — Sheffield, Liverpool, Glasgow, Manchester, Birmingham, Newcastle, Dublin, Nottingham, London. Tickets on sale now.
www.cirquedusoleil.com
May 20, 2010 to August 01, 2010
Night, Mother
Greenwich Playhouse, Greenwich High Road London SE10, 8JA

Marsha Norman's Pulitzer Award winning play explores the issue of ultimate determination. Can suicide ever be a rational choice? Jessie's father is dead, her husband has left her and her absent son is out of control. Her life just isn't working and she has no reason to believe it ever will. So she is going to end it. Her mother's shock and disbelief at this announcement soon turns to panic and desperation as Jessie calmly puts her house in order. Presented by Fragile Productions.
www.galleontheatre.co.uk
boxoffice@galleontheatre.co.uk
020 8858 9256
May 25, 2010 to June 20, 2010
British Looking Glasses, 1660 to 1820
Ronald Phillips Antiques, 26 Bruton Street, London W1J 6QL then Chelsea Barracks

REVIEW by Virginia E Schultz: Leonard da Vinci called the mirror 'the master of painters', and the mirrors in this exhibition are some of the finest examples of craftsmanship and design between 1660 and 1820 ever to be put on sale. In the specialist book that accompanies the selling exhibition, Dr. Adam Bowett notes that little was known about the making or use of looking glass prior to 1600, although they occur in the inventories of noble and royal houses from about 1500. There are many pieces festooned with masks, cupides, shells, plumage, animals and foliage, most in unbelievable state of preservation, as well as a number of exceptional Chinese reverse paintings made for the English market with their original frames. The exhibition opened on 9 June at Ronald Phillips Antiques, 26 Bruton Street, London W1J 6QL, and will be shown at 'Masterpiece London' at Chelsea Barracks from June 24 to 29 and a large selection will continue in the showrooms in Mayfair until the end of July.
www.ronaldphillipsantiques.com
advice@ronaldphillips.co.uk
020 7493 2341
June 09, 2010 to July 31, 2010
The Wyeths: Three Generations of American Art
Dulwich Picture Gallery, Dulwich

N C Wyeth (1882–1945) was one of America's finest illustrators. a glimpse of the work of Andrew's sister, His son, Andrew (1917–2009), was regarded as America's finest realist painter by the public but divided the critics. Andrew's son, Jamie Wyeth (b. 1946), has carried on the family tradition with his own brilliant career and there's a glimpse of Andrew's sister, Henriette, and her husband, Peter Hurd's, work. From The Bank of America's collection
www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk
June 09, 2010 to August 22, 2010
Broadway Arts Festival and John Singer Sargent Exhibition
Broadway, Gloucestershire

A study of Dorothy Barnard bu John Singer Sargent
A study of Dorothy Barnard bu John Singer Sargent
Alexandra Meynell, grand–daughter of American artist John Singer Sargent RA, writes about the inaugural Broadway Festival for The American: The Heritage village of Broadway has joyously launched its first Festival of Arts. Dedicated to John Singer Sargent and his artist friends, this group would become known as The Broadway Colony. Sargent's exhibition painting "Carnation Lily, Lily Rose" was painted here in 1885/6; so also on show are supporting sketches he made, on loan from The Tate. Well displayed works, many from private collections, painted by Sargent, Francis D Millet, Alfred Parsons, Paul Cecar Helleu and other well known artists, capture the mood of comfortable life in Victorian England. Chinese lanterns (echoing the glowing ones in "Carnation Lily, Lily Rose") are strung across the yellow stoned houses and streets of Broadway Village, an artistic form of bunting, which celebrate the simple pleasures of life for both adults and children at play. This is also a topical way of linking the variety of exhibitions, visual, performing, theatrical, floral and design led which all feature in this successful Festival. The excellent Photographic Exhibition and potted history of both artists and village life in the 1880s demonstrates that life was also hard work, seasonal and fleeting; these artists devoted hours and days in "setting up", so as to enable them to capture the moment and it's magic in such a seemingly effortless way. Nestling in the Cotswolds, this jewel of Broadway has its own class act of contemporary creators. They have successfully presented a sophisticated first Festival, suited to all ages, interests and pockets. A MUST to visit and ENJOY!
www.broadwayartsfestival.com
info@broadwayartsfestival.com
01386 858841
June 11, 2010 to June 20, 2010
Royal Academy Summer Exhibition
Royal Academy of Arts, Burlington House, Piccadilly, London W1J 0BD

The Royal Academy's annual Summer Exhibition is the world's largest open submission contemporary art exhibition. For 2010, its 242nd year, the exhibition continues the tradition of showcasing work by both emerging and established artists in all media including painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking, architecture and film. This year's co–ordinators, Royal Academicians Stephen Chambers and David Chipperfield, will select works for the exhibition around the theme of 'Raw'.
www.royalacademy.org.uk/exhibitions/summer-exhibition/


June 14, 2010 to August 22, 2010
Wimbledon
London SW19

The world famous tennis competition that the pros all want to win. But more than a championship, Wimbledon is also a firm part of the British summer social scene.
www.wimbledon.org
June 21, 2010 to July 04, 2010
Exeter Summer Festival
various, Exeter, Devon

Sparkling acts from across the art, music, comedy and historical worlds. More than 40 events: dance, theatre, comedy, poetry, jazz, pop, visual art, world music, easy listening and classical music. Maceo Parker (saxophonist for James Brown, Funkadelic and Prince) will star.
www.exeter.gov.uk
June 25, 2010 to July 10, 2010
Cabaret at Pizza on the Park
Pizza on the Park, 11 Knightsbridge, Knightsbridge, SW1X 7QS

You may have heard that Pizza on the Park is closing. It has now been confirmed that it will be open until September. There will be a new show from stellar cabaret duo Claire Martin and Richard Rodney Bennett June 30th to July 3rd. Sundays through the summer, it will have cabaret performances by some of the bestyoung West End talent: Michael Peavoy June 27. Cassidy Janson July 11th, Kelly Price 18th and Shona White 25th. Legendary cabaret icon Al Pillay returns with a 3 night residency July 15 – 17. Simon Green and David Shrubsole return to London for a limited engagement of their hit show Simon Green – Traveling Light, direct from New York's Feinstein's at Loew's Regency and 59E59, July 22nd to 24th. Harry the Piano performs August 5th to 7th. Pizza on the Park favourite Gary Williams performs for one night only September 4th
www.pizzaexpresslive.com
08456 027 017
June 27, 2010 to September 04, 2010
Henley Royal Regatta
Henley-on-Thames

Annual international rowing regatta. Stewards Enclosure for members and their guests (no children under 10). Regatta Enclosure for general public, accompanied children under 14 free.
www.hrr.co.uk
01491 572153
June 30, 2010 to July 04, 2010
The UN at War: FDR's Global UN Day 1942
House of Lords, London

The SOAS Centre for International Studies and Diplomacy is joining with the United Nations Association UK (Westminster) to commemorate the first ever "United Nations Day" of 1942. The assumption that the UN was established at the end of the World War II is wrong. Its formal birth was the adoption in Washington D.C. on 1 January, 1942 of the Declaration by United Nations. From that day, 26 nations committed themselves to victory in war and cooperation in the ensuing peace. Dr Dan Plesch, Director of the Centre for International Studies and Diplomacy at SOAS and the leading authority on the UN's earliest years, will speak, with respondents Professor Chris Bellamy (Cranfield University) and Paul Lay (editor of History Today). 6.30pm
www.southbankcentre.co.uk
July 01, 2010 to July 18, 2010
Roman Baths by Torchlight
Roman Baths, Abbey Church Yard, Bath, BA1 1LZ

As darkness falls, the ruins of the Roman Baths lit by flickering torches provide an awesome sight for visitors who can walk on 2000 year old pavements, explore Roman artefacts, see the steaming baths and really sense the spirits of the ancients.
www.romanbaths.co.uk
romanbaths_bookings@bathnes.gov.uk
01225 477 785
July 01, 2010 to August 31, 2010
Cheltenham Music Festival
various around Cheltenham

One of the world's most prestigious music festivals celebrates anniversaries of Schumann, Chopin, Wolf and Gesualdo. Also Vivaldi, Monteverdi and a Rodgers and Hammerstein Gala with Kim Criswell and the CBSO.
cheltenhamfestivals.com
July 02, 2010 to July 17, 2010
Spirit of the Sea maritime festival
Weymouth & Portland, Dorset

Celebrating the area's close relationship with the sea, the festival brings together a range of sporting activities, cultural events and entertainment, all on a maritime theme.
www.spiritofthesea.org.uk
July 03, 2010 to July 16, 2010
John Adams Focus
Barbican Centre, London

The Barbican's John Adams Focus features six Adams works in six performances. Part of the Great Performers 2009–2010 season. Dates in February, March and July. See Barbican website for full details.
www.barbican.org.uk
July 04, 2010 to July 31, 2010
Hebridean Maritime Festival
Stornaway, Hebrides, Scotland

Each year, the Hebrides off the west coast of Scotland are teeming with exciting summer festivals. The Maritime Festival has long distance sailing, windsurfing, raft racing, stalls, exhibitions, rescue displays and more.
www.sailhebrides.info
July 12, 2010 to July 17, 2010
Summer on HMS Belfast
Tooley Street, London SE1 2JH

HMS Belfast, a veteran of World War II and the Korean War and now a floating museum, has a range of activities this summer. Korea Anniversary 12 to 17 July, Veterans who served on board HMS Belfast during the Korean War will be on board each day to talk to the public about their memories of the conflict and life on board the Belfast in the early 1950s. Shipshape Science Summer Fun! 31 July and 7, 14, 21 August, The Royal Society has partnered with HMS Belfast to hold drop–in family science workshops during the summer holidays. Radar, 8 July An evening history talk on board HMS Belfast, about the development of the war–winnign technology. Summer Holidays Summer Stowaways Trail, 1 – 31 August, 2010, Belfast visited many exotic and interesting parts of the world, though several small furry stowaways seem to have sneaked on board. Kids can search the ship and find all ten, along the way discover where HMS Belfast was in the world when they stowed away.
www.iwm.org.uk
020 7403 6246
July 12, 2010 to August 31, 2010
Great Yorkshire Show
The Great Yorkshire Showground, Harrogate

A classic British county show, with a cattle parade, international show jumping, heavy horses, scurry racing, fashion show, falconry, gun dog displays, livestock competitions, country crafts, motorcycle display team, and live music.
www.greatyorkshireshow.co.uk
July 13, 2010 to July 15, 2010
Hebridean Celtic Festival
Stornaway, Hebrides, Scotland

Also in Stornaway, the Celtic Festival takes place in the Victorian mock–Tudor Lewis Castle. The 2010 line–up includes performances by Runrig, Imelda May, Julie Fowlis and Treacherous Orchestra.
www.hebceltfest.com
July 14, 2010 to July 17, 2010
The Open Golf Championship 2010
The Old Course, St Andrews

The town of St Andrews is internationally recognised the world over as the Home Of Golf.
www.standrewsopen.com
July 15, 2010 to July 18, 2010
World Lacrosse Championship
Manchester University Sports grounds

This is going to be the biggest World Championships to date. 30 nations will compete for the title, including —of course —teh USA.
www.2010worldlacrosse.com
2010festival@englishlacrosse.co.uk
July 15, 2010 to July 24, 2010
Proms 2010
various

The Henry Wood Promenade concerts have grown, since the first concert in 1895, into a range of events across the country: 76 concerts at the Royal Albert Hall and 13 chamber music recitals at Cadogan Hall; Proms in the Park;Proms Plus and more, all culminating with the world famous Last Night.
www.bbc.co.uk/proms/2010/
July 16, 2010 to September 11, 2010
Eastbourne Extreme
Eastbourne, East Sussex

A free two day event with air, land and water outdoor pursuits offering taster sessions, demonstrations and national competitions – windsurfing and stand up paddlesurfing, jet skis, rowing, power boats, land yachts, mountain bikes, skating and stunt kites.
www.eastbourneextreme.co.uk
July 17, 2010 to July 18, 2010
Royal International Air Tattoo
RAF Fairford, Gloucestershire

This year's Air Tattoo features special celebrations marking the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, dubbed 'Britain's finest hour' by Winston Churchill. The Tattoo will recognise the bravery of all those who fought; from Fighter Command, Bomber Command, Coastal Command and the Fleet Air Arm as well as their German and Italian counterparts. In total, 17 countries took part in the Battle of Britain, including Poland, New Zealand, Canada, Czechoslovakia, Australia, Belgium, South Africa, France, Ireland, Rhodesia, Palestine Mandate, Barbados, Jamaica and of course the USA.
www.airtattoo.com
July 17, 2010 to July 18, 2010
Diana's Dresses
Fashion Museum, Bennett Street Bath BA1 2QH

Diana's Dresses at Bath Fashion MuseumA special exhibition of ten dresses that belonged to Diana, Princess of Wales will be on display at the Fashion Museum from 17 July. The dresses, which are on loan by their owner, Suzanne King, span the brief 16 years that Diana was in the spotlight as one of the most famous women in the world and a style icon. The exhibits include dresses worn during the Royal tours of Canada and New Zealand in the early 1980s, evening dresses from almost ten years later around 1990, and little black cocktail dresses by designers such as Versace from the mid 1990s.
www.museumofcostume.co.uk
01225 477 789
July 17, 2010 to January 09, 2011
Glen Nevis River Race
Fort William, Scotland

An extreme challenge: participants navigate the icy waters of the River Nevis on inflatable airbeds, through the Gurgling Gorge, Dead Dog Pool, the Leg Breaker and the Lower Falls Leap waterfall. Expect to see inflatable sheep, crocodiles, whales and possibly even blow up women! Support, enjoy — and enter?
www.nofussevents.co.uk
July 17, 2010
Billy Fiske — King of Speed
Alexandra Theatre, Bognor Regis

An inspiring new play telling the life story of an extraordinary man, the first American citizen to join the Royal Air force at the very start of WWII, and was the first to die 12,000 ft above West Sussex, England. One of Churchills Few. This fun loving man became the youngest American Olympic bobsleigh Gold medallist of his time at the age of 16 — a record kept until 1992. In his short life, he produced Hollywood movies, had a career in banking, was a motor racer, married a countess and mastered the skill of flying. On July 23rd there will be a Special VIP Charity night in aid of Tangmere Aviation Museum.
www.alexandratheatre.co.uk
01243 861010
July 20, 2010 to July 25, 2010
The Great Game: Afghanistan
The Tricycle Theatre 269 Kilburn High Road, London NW6 7JR then US tour

A season of plays, exhibitions and films that explore Afghan culture and history, stimulating discussion and debate on what is currently the most important focus of UK and American foreign policy. USA Tour Dates. September 15 to 26 the Harman Washington; September 29 to October 17 The Maguire Procenium Minneapolis; October 22 to November 7 The Roda Theatre Berkeley; December 1 to December 19 The Skirball New York.
www.tricycle.co.uk
020 7328 1000
July 23, 2010 to August 29, 2010
American Civil War Round Table Meeting
Civil Service Club, London SW1

Author and war historian Col James Falkner's talk on The Appomattox Campaign, April 1865 will look at the campaign between Gen Lee leaving his lines at Petersburg, through the harrowing fighting withdrawal, to the human drama of the surrender to Gen Grant at the McLean House. 12.30pm
www.americancivilwar.org.uk
July 24, 2010
Churchill War Rooms Battle of Britain Commemorations
Churchill Museum And Cabinet War Rooms, King Charles Street London SW1

Working in the War Rooms: 26 July to 31 August, Get close to objects and documents associated with the War Rooms and the people who worked in them. Artefacts from the Second World War will be available for handling, and facsimile documents give a rare insight into what went on there. Spitfire event: 16 to 31 August, a full–size replica Spitfire will be on view outside the Museum, and there's the opportunity to create a skyscape on the pavement using traditional pavement chalks. 28 to 30 August, a team of re–enactors stage an interactive display of an RAF operations room complete with plotting table, demonstrating how they tracked the progress of a large scale air raid on London.Spitfire & Hurricane Fly–past and reading of Churchill's 'The Few' Speech , Friday 20 August.
cwr.iwm.org.uk
July 26, 2010 to August 31, 2010
Vauxhall Motors Bowls Club
Brick Lane, London E1

Brick Lane in London will be transformed into a professional standard bowling green, courtesy of Vauxhall (GM's UK arm). After a popular roller disco extravaganza and the cool Vauxhall Ice Skate comes traditional bowls, but with a difference, with top bands, dancing, lounging and stylish 4–wheeled art commissions. Go online to apply for your exclusive free ticket. 12.00pm till 6.00pm.
www.vauxhallmotorsbc.co.uk
August 01, 2010
CultureLine (inc. George Washington's false teeth!)
various, London

A partnership of 10 museums along the new London Overground East London Line have a Summer Discovery Weekend with exhibitions, costumed characters, guided walks and live music. A preview event at Whitechapel Gallery on August 5 has a talk on Alice Neel, the first major retrospective of the influential painter, featuring a portrait of Andy Warhol previously unseen in the UK. Other highlights include George Washington's false teeth at the Royal London Hospital Museum; Fe:MAIL: Suffragettes and the Post at the Women's Library; the 'Eighth Wonder of the World' during the Thames Tunnel Fancy Fair at the Brunel Museum; live music from a Caribbean steel band and Victorian garden games at the Geffrye Museum; Africa Live!, a continent of culture, music, food and drink, at Horniman Museum and a tour of one of London's most iconic lost buildings, the Crystal Palace, with the Crystal Palace Museum.
www.cultureline.org.uk
August 06, 2010 to August 08, 2010
Edinburgh Festival Fringe
various, Edinburgh

The world's biggest arts festival. The Fringe is the 'alternative' sister to the classical music, theatre and arts festival. In its 64th year the Fringe has its biggest line–up to date comprising a staggering 2,453 shows, 17 percent up on last year's total. Everything from comedy, theatre, dance and physical theatre, events, exhibitions, children's shows, music, musicals and opera. See also 'Edinburgh Festivals' entry for other festivals.
www.edfringe.com
August 06, 2010 to August 30, 2010
The Tall Ships Race
Hartlepool Marina, Hartlepool Quays, Hartlepool, Tees Valley TS24 0XZ

125 'tall ships' sail from Kristiansand in Norway on the second and final leg of the race to the finishing line in Hartelpool. During their stay there will be a large number of special events.
www.hartlepooltallships2010.com
August 07, 2010 to August 10, 2010
Paco Peña — A Compás!
Sadler's Wells Theatre, Rosebery Avenue, London EC1R 4TN

Paco Peña makes a welcome return to Sadler's Wells with his renowned company of dancers and musicians. Famed for their passionately authentic flamenco, the company's acclaimed show A Compás! To the Rhythm brings to the stage a true interpretation of what flamenco represents: a spontaneous collaboration between dancers, singers and musicians including Paco Peña himself.
www.sadlerswells.com
0844 412 4300
August 07, 2010 to August 12, 2010
Paco Pena — A Compas!
Sadler's Wells Theatre, Rosebery Avenue, London EC1R 4TN

Following a critically acclaimed season at the Peacock Theatre, Paco Pena makes a welcome return to Sadler's Wells with his renowned company of dancers and musicians.
www.sadlerswells.com/show/Paco-Pena
August 07, 2010 to August 12, 2010
Barry Sheene Memorial Dinner
Thistle Hotel, Brands Hatch, Kent

One for bike fans. A charity evening in memory of Sheene, the best loved British Grand Prix motorcycle racer. Guests will include Steve Parrish who will give an insight in to what it was like being Barry's team mate and best friend; Margaret Smart and Paul Smart, Barry's sister and brother in law; their son and current racer, Scott Smart. On show will be two of Barry's GP bikes and the exciting new Icon Sheene Bike, being built in memory of Barry Sheene. There will be a buffet and the cost will be a mere £25 a head. A charity auction will include: a framed career history presentation signed by Barry Sheene; a Fiat Yamaha team shirt signed by Valentino Rossi; a pillion ride with John Reynolds on the Worx Suzuki GSXR at the final round of BSB at Oulton Park; and a set of Chris Vermeulan's Suzuki leathers from 2009 signed and presented by Chris. All proceeds raised go to the children's cancer charity CLIC Sargent. Dress code Black Tee Shirt (Barry never did like ties).
www.barrysheenechallenge.co.uk
symor118@hotmail.com
01382 480161
August 07, 2010
One World Festival
Great Malvern, Worcestershire

A magical midsummer event bringing together the arts, personal development, health and community, set in beautiful Worcestershire countryside, in Great Malvern. Dozens of holistic teachers offering over 200 free workshops in a range of therapies, natural movement and dance forms, exercise for physical and spiritual development, holistic health, arts, crafts, sports and natural cookery. Among them is coach and bestselling author Lynn Serafinn. Quote her name and get a 10% discount on your price of admission.
www.macrobios.com

August 09, 2010 to August 15, 2010
Vintage at Goodwood
Goodwood Estate, West Sussex

A new summer festival combining music, fashion, design and retail and celebrating five decades of British cool. Musical headliners are The Faces, without Rod Stewart but with Mick (Simply Red) Hucknall: should be a great night.
www.vintageatgoodwood.com
August 13, 2010 to August 15, 2010
Kids Week In The West End
various, London

Now in its 13th year, Kids Week offers children 16 or younger the opportunity to experience the magic of London theatre for FREE. One child (aged between 5 and 16) will be able to go free to any participating show when accompanied by a full paying adult, and another two children can go for half price. A host of participating shows include The Woman in Black, Oliver!, Wicked, Sister Act, Legally Blonde and MAMMA MIA! plus many more. There is no booking or postage fees on Kids Week tickets.
www.kidsweek.co.uk
Ticketmaster 24hr Kids Week hotline 0844 248 5151
August 13, 2010 to August 27, 2010
Shakespeare's Globe US and UK Tour: The Merry Wives of Windsor
Shakespeare's Globe, Bankside, London SE1 9DT

A revival of the acclaimed 2008 production has a run at the Globe, before embarking on an international tour. The production will perform in Los Angeles and New York during the autumn, continuing partnerships formed during the Globe's US tour of Love's Labour's Lost last year. The production will return to the UK for performances in Milton Keynes, Norwich, Richmond and Bath. Shakespeare's Globe August 14 to October 2; USA October14 to November 7; tour in England November 16 to December 11
www.shakespeares-globe.org
020 7401 9919 or 020 7087 7398
August 14, 2010 to December 11, 2010
Great Dorset Steam Fair
Tarrant Hinton, Dorset DT11 8HX

Widely recognised as THE National Heritage Show, this is the leading steam engine and agricultural pursuits show of its type in the world, covering over 600 acres. Showman's and working steam engines, heavy horses,classic cars and motorbikes, a funfair and live music.
www.gdsf.co.uk
enquiries@gdsf.co.uk
01258 860361
September 01, 2010 to September 05, 2010
Start Garden Party
Clarence House, London

A Garden Party To Make A Difference: The Prince of Wales is joining forces with musicians, comedians, environmental experts and some of Britain's best known companies to create a unique festival in the heart of London. The Prince is opening up his own gardens at Clarence House, together with his neighbours' gardens at Lancaster House and Marlborough House. Each area of the Garden Party will be curated by a celebrity champion, including Musical Programme (Jools Holland), Debate (Jonathan Dimbleby, Sanjeev Bhaskar, Clive Anderson); Comedy (Marcus Brigstocke, Hugh Dennis); Growing and Gardens (Alan Titchmarsh); Food and The Great Outdoors (Kate Humble); Ecocars (Roger Saul and Kevin McCloud); Fashion (Dame Vivienne Westwood)
www.startuk.org
September 08, 2010 to September 19, 2010
Salvator Rosa (1615 — 1673): Bandits, Wilderness and Magic
Dulwich Picture Gallery, Dulwich

Salvator Rosa invented a range of new types of painting; novel allegorical pictures, distinguished by a haunting and melancholy poetry; fanciful portraits of romantic and enigmatic figures; macabre and horrific subjects; highly original philosophical subjects, which bring into painting some of the major philosophical and scientific concerns of his age. Unlike Caravaggio, Rosa was truly a rebel, radical, anti – clerical, associated with libertine thought, and often in very real danger from the Inquisition.
www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk
September 15, 2010 to November 28, 2010
IF CONTRA OR PAID FOR - Confident Creative Retreat
Dragon’s Hall in Covent Garden, London

Cat Bennett, Boston based artist, will lead this creative retreat weekend! The unique hands–on workshop will give participants a chance to explore the creative process using drawing as a tool to free the hand and mind. Participants will learn that everyone can draw and everyone can use drawing to get out of the verbal, linear–thinking left brain and into the spatial, imaginative, meditative right brain where true creativity resides. You will emerge with a clearer sense of how to overcome creative blocks, how to attract new ideas and how to enter the free flow of full creative expression in whatever way they choose. This workshop is for everyone who wishes to bring more creativity into their lives. The workshop cost is £199 pp and includes all art supplies. Sign up at:
www.theconfidentcreative.com
September 25, 2010 to September 26, 2010
Cocoon
Darwin Centre, Natural History Museum, London SW7

Travel through the Cocoon experience deep into the heart of the collections to glimpse the working life of our scientists. See the previously hidden world of scientific research through viewing decks, video, intercom and over 40 high–tech installations and hands–on interactive activities. Visitors will be able to interact with learning activators stationed throughout Cocoon.
www.nhm.ac.uk/darwin-centre
ongoing
Edinburgh Festivals
various, Edinburgh

Edinburgh is the world's Festival City. It's where people come together from across the globe to share their passion for arts, culture and ideas. This welcoming, inspiring and open–minded atmosphere is heightened by the approachable beauty of this breathtaking historial city. With 12 Festivals throughout the year, there's an endless array of events, performances and spectacles to enjoy.
www.edinburghfestivals.co.uk/festivals
ongoing
Bob Shepherd: The Infidel
National Army Museum, Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea, London SW3 4HT

Bob Shepherd is a security advisor and author of the Sunday Times Top Ten Bestseller The Circuit. A 20–year veteran of Britain's elite Special Air Service with more than a decade and a half of private security work to his credit, Bob has successfully negotiated some of the most dangerous places on earth. Now he speaks on his new work The Infidel which is inspired by both his previous service and Rudyard Kipling's The Man Who Would Be King. 12.30 pm.
www.national-army-museum.ac.uk
 to August 07, 2010
American Museum in Britain
Claverton Manor, Bath BA2 7BD

Housed in Georgian splendor at Claverton Manor in Bath, the American Museum in Britain remains the only museum outside the US to showcase the nation's decorative arts. There are permanent exhibitions, Quilting Bees every Tuesday, kids' activities and special events. AUGUST: Music Series from Jeff Warner.
www.americanmuseum.org
info@americanmuseum.org
01225 460503
 to August 31, 2010
Cage Mix: Sculpture and Sound
BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, Gateshead

Consistently unconventional, John Cage unravelled the rules of musical composition, re–thinking and re–presenting the score. His subversive ideas and lectures on music in the 1940s and 50s were catalysts that continue to be significant to contemporary artists working today. Cage Mix: Sculpture & Sound brings together the work of eight contemporary artists that use the writings and scores of Cage as a source of inspiration: Sam Belinfante, Graham Gussin, Christian Marclay, Jeremy Millar, Katie Paterson, Paul Ramirez Jonas, Richard Rigg and Katja Strunz.
www.balticmill.com
 to September 19, 2010
The William Bray pub and restaurant, Shere, at theamerican.co.uk

Candy Pirate at theamerican.co.uk

Skyco at theamerican.co.uk

La Capanna at theamerican.co.uk

Old Country Tours at theamerican.co.uk

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