Featured Events in Greenwich in May 2025 (May Updated)

The artwork is displayed on powder-coated steel gates, designed by Whittle and made at Glasgow Sculpture Studios. It was unveiled on 5 October 2023 at the Queen’s House in Greenwich. Feeling Blue has been developed in response to RMG’s large and varied collections, as well as the history and cultural significance of Greenwich. The 160 x 155 cm tapestry is filled with richly evocative textures, symbolic shapes, and tropical colours. It was woven by hand over a period of six months by Naomi Robertson and Elaine Wilson at Dovecot Studios. They used a variety of techniques, yarns, and over 150 colour mixes to add variety and depth to the surface of the tapestry. Dominating the tapestry is the phrase ‘feeling blue’ which stands out from a background of blues and greens, the combination of different shades resembling water in motion. Blue is immediately associated with oceans and seas but there are also more emotive connotations which Whittle chose to explore. The colour blue, and in particular the term ‘feeling blue’, is used to describe sadness or depression. While the exact origin of the term is uncertain it has been suggested that it comes from the tradition of ships flying blue flags and officers bearing a painted blue band when a captain or officer died. For others, blue symbolises tranquillity. In the Queen’s House the colour blue is used throughout for decoration, notably the balustrade of the Tulip Stairs. Drawing on her research of the British naval uniform, Whittle also reflects on the legacies of British colonialism. From the mid-eighteenth-century, the Royal Navy introduced a uniform for officers made from a deep blue fabric. The colour was achieved using a dye from the indigo plant that was native to India. Until the end of the eighteenth century the indigo plant was grown, harvested and processed by enslaved people on North American plantations. Indentured labourers in India and modern-day Bangladesh also produced indigo for the East India Company. Today, Navy blue endures as a colour of authority from police to military officers, though the history of the colour and connection to colonialism is little known. Whittle continues her exploration of maritime worlds by the inclusion of coloured ropes – reminiscent of those used on ships. For Whittle, rope is a symbol of both hope and oppression. Ropes are associated with bondage, imprisonment and even execution but are equally symbolic of lifelines for people in distress. Whittle’s ongoing engagement with the climate crisis is found in the decorative coral that frames the tapestry. The delicate pastel pinks and vibrant yellows evoke the beauty of tropical oceans and are a reminder of the importance of reefs. Decorative cultured freshwater pearl beads have also been stitched onto the tapestry. As well as representing an oceanic realm, Whittle connects Feeling Blue with two sixteenth-century paintings the Armada Portrait and Sir Francis Drake which will be displayed alongside the tapestry. In both portraits, pearls are used as a symbol of wealth, some of which was derived from colonial trade and exploitation. The tapestry is hung on a set of blue ‘gates’, which are an important component of Whittle’s work. Whittle sees the ‘gates’ as reminiscent of fencing, suggesting containment and control. Placed within the gallery space the gates no longer act as a barrier. Instead, Whittle uses the gates to expand rather than restrict as visitors are free to walk around them and view the tapestry from both sides. The decorative fretwork on the panels evokes the architecture of the Queen’s House, in particular the Tulip Stairs. Alberta Whittle, said: “The commission has been a wonderful opportunity to think deeply about maritime histories and consider the powers in place that decide how these histories are portrayed. This new tapestry is a chance to explore these ideas of power alongside the rhythms of the ocean and its vulnerability under climate colonialism. The commission has also provided me with the opportunity to continue to work with Naomi Robertson and Elaine Wilson at Dovecot Studios and the rest of the fantastic weaving team.” Celia Joicey, Director of Dovecot Studios, said: "This commission represents the contemporary significance of tapestry as a collective medium. Started in the midst of the 2021 lockdown, it is testimony to a group of people responding creatively and collaboratively to the Museum collections. Feeling Blue embodies the passion, focus and skill of Dovecot’s weavers, Alberta Whittle’s endlessly interesting ideas and the care and enterprise of the commissioning team." Katherine Gazzard, Curator of Art, Royal Museums Greenwich, said: “At Royal Museums Greenwich, we are committed to working with contemporary artists whose practice engages with our historic sites and collections, as well as with the present challenges facing our communities and our planet. The opportunity to commission a contemporary tapestry from Alberta Whittle and Dovecot Studios spoke powerfully to this ethos. The finished tapestry will go on public display in the Queen’s House, our flagship art gallery. When the Queen’s House was built in the early 17th century, it was at the cutting edge of art and design. Commissions like Feeling Blue help us to honour that legacy, ensuring that, four centuries after the building’s completion, the Queen’s House continues to showcase artistic innovations and new perspectives.” ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Feeling Blue Alberta Whittle Tapestry by Dovecot Studios 2023, cotton, linen, synthetic yarn, cultured freshwater pearl beads Tapestry woven for Dovecot by Naomi Robertson, Master Weaver, and Elaine Wilson Displayed on powder coated steel gates made by Glasgow Sculpture Studios Purchased with assistance from the Contemporary Art Society

Secret 7”, the much-loved charity initiative combining music and art, is making a highly anticipated return to Greenwich Peninsula this April, presented by War Child for the second consecutive year. The exhibition is set to once again bring together a stellar mix of world-class musicians, visionary artists, and passionate collectors. All proceeds will go towards War Child’s vital work supporting children impacted by conflict.

This is a chance to see In Performance: Fans of Theatre, Music and Dance, a beautiful exhibition showing at one of London’s hidden gems: The Fan Museum in Greenwich. The exhibition presents a wide range of fans which portray and are a part of the performing arts. The fans of theatre focus strongly on the popularity of Commedia dell’Arte, a 16th century Italian form of theatre, depicting a troupe of characters including Harlequin, Colombine and Pierrot. While the section on dance emphasizes the use of fans as accessories to dance around the globe, such as dance cards, provide instruction for dancers or simply souvenirs of dance forms. This exhibition aims to take its audience on a journey of discovery, blending a diverse assortment of objects into- it is hoped- a coherent and thought-provoking whole. After a short introduction with the exhibition's curator, you will have time to look at the exhibition in close detail and enjoy refreshments in the musems beautiful Orangery. The Fan Museum is the only organisation of its kind devoted entirely to the multifaceted history, culture and artistry of the fan. The Museum is small-scale, Independent, and accredited by Arts Council England. Situated within the World Heritage Site of Greenwich, London, a pair of beautifully restored Grade II* Listed early Georgian period townhouses accommodate the Museum and its collections. Information Source: The Costume Society | eventbrite

How would you like to fit into a social scene on the Heath with a mixed team sport?? We are pleased to announce, the next Tag League starts on Saturday May 3rd 2025.It's fun and you can REGISTER NOW. #AnotherKindOfSport #NonContact #Social There will be an unexpected higher demand for this league, so if ticket sales end please reach out there, may be a chance of a team or player dropping out.Email noncontactrugby@gmail.com or check online for tickets. We already have teams re-signed up . There is lots of space to run-around and the format is 4 male 3 female.(1-2:30pm). WIN WIN for females!!! This season there is a FREE team enrty for an all female team who are new in respect to NOT been on an existing team of females. In other words we are encouraging females to register in an all female team who have NOT done so previously, you must also be registered on a mixed team to quality.(T&C Apply). Please email info@ncr.events for further details. As usual, this will be professionally run with marked out pitches, official ref and plenty of space for a good atmosphere and above all a safe environment. The location is specifically chosen for convenience. £35 per (early bird) player for this 8 week league. Once you got your ticket, NCR Sports will allocate you to a team. If you want to enter your own team then contact us direct at info@ncr.events. Don't worry if you can't make all the dates, we'll have substitutes for those unable to attend certain weeks. We do hope those interested commit at least 5 out of the 8 games. There will be a skipped date for the tag tournament on Sat June 7th. EARLY BIRD TEAM ENTRY IS £375 AND WILL CLOSE 10 DAYS BEFORE KO (MAX. 15 PLAYERS IN SQUAD)You will get a receipt of payment via Eventbrite. May 3rd - June 28th 2025 (8 games in total £49 regular) FAQs Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event? Min Age Is 16yrs. ID required. What are my transport/parking options for getting to and from the event? There is allocated parking for our NCR League. Please email your registration at least 48hrs before arrival to noncontactrugby@gmail.com for details and map. The ground is only 5 mins from Blackheath Station. How can I contact the organiser with any questions? Email noncontactrugby@gmail.com NCR Sports Once I buy a ticket, is that it. Will you contact me again before I play? A reminder is always issued. You'll receive your fixture on the run up to the game weekly. It will also be posted on our social media. Is my registration fee or ticket transferrable? No I heard there is a Men's and Women's League also, does this clash with this Mixed Adult League? No, the fixtures will be at different times. Players are welcome to sign up for two leagues on Saturday if any other leagues are scheduled Are we allowed ringers? Once a team has paid, they are welcome to bring along ringers(no pay as you go) with the Terms & Conditions of the current tag rugby league rules. We can help to add players but they MUST be registered beforehand. The Blackheath Tag Rugby Blitz 2025? I've heard there are already teams signed up for this. Do we get a discount if we are members of the Blackheath Tag Rugby Club or get any concessions? Yes, the winning team of the Blackheath League gets 50% discount(ORIGINAL PRICE £49). Please watch out for broadcasts for early bird or advantage tickets. The Blackheath League Organisers will give teams heads up if there are any concessions available. Information Source: NCR Sports | eventbrite

📢 Celebrate Women's International Day 2025 with FREE Tag Rugby in Blackheath! 🎉Want a FREE spot in London's most fun and welcoming tag league? To celebrate Women's International Day 2025, NCR Sports is offering free entry(*terms and conditions apply) to encourage more women to give tag rugby a go in Blackheath! Join our active and social community. Get ready to tag! Our next Tag League starts Saturday, May 3rd , 2025. It's going to be a blast, so register NOW! #AnotherKindOfSport #NonContact #Social Expect a professionally run league with marked pitches, official referees, and a safe, spacious environment. We've chosen a convenient location for easy access. After registration, NCR Sports will assign you to a team, or you can form your own by contacting info@ncr.events. Substitutes will be available for missed games, though we encourage commitment to at least 5 out of 8 matches *Terms and Conditions: To encourage new female participation, we are offering FREE entry to all-women teams whose members have not previously paid in any or NCR's all female teams. This is a fantastic opportunity to experience the fitness and social benefits of tag rugby in a safe and supportive atmosphere. For this is be sucessful we would need at least 8-12 females to sign up. We expect a good turn out on the day anyway as it's The Red Roses vs France in the Women's Six Nations 2025. Exception: Organisers, captains and coaches who can demonstrate they have played a significant role in recruiting teams and female players to the NCR Blackheath League are eligible for free entry. If you fall under this category, please email info@ncr.events for your FREE entry voucher. You cannot be registered on two all female teams at any time during the season. May 3rd, 2025 to June 28th (8 games in total £49 regular) FAQs Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event? Min Age Is 16yrs. ID required. What are my transport/parking options for getting to and from the event? There is allocated parking for our NCR League. Please email your registration at least 48hrs before arrival to noncontactrugby@gmail.com for details and map. The ground is only 5 mins from Blackheath Station. How can I contact the organiser with any questions? Email noncontactrugby@gmail.com NCR Sports Once I buy a ticket, is that it. Will you contact me again before I play? A reminder is always issued. You'll receive your fixture on the run up to the game weekly. It will also be posted on our social media. Is my registration fee or ticket transferrable? No I heard there is a Men's and Women's League also, does this clash with this Mixed Adult League? No, the fixtures will be at different times. Players are welcome to sign up for two leagues on Saturday if any other leagues are scheduled, however double entry NOT allowed. You cannot be entered on more than one mixed team. Are we allowed ringers? Once a team has paid, they are welcome to bring along ringers(no pay as you go) with the Terms & Conditions of the current tag rugby league rules. We can help to add players but they MUST be registered beforehand. Regarding the Blackheath Tag Rugby Blitz 2025: Yes, teams are already registering. To clarify discounts and concessions: The winning team of our Blackheath League receives a 50% discount on the Blitz entry fee (original price £25).Keep an eye out for announcements regarding early bird or advantage tickets.The Blackheath League Organisers will inform teams about any additional concessions.The winning team must email their team members' full names to NCR Sports immediately after winning to claim the discount. Failure to do so before the start of the next league will result in the discount being forfeited. Information Source: NCR Sports | eventbrite

Highlights 🎼 Stunning programme of Lark Ascending and Elgar - two shows at 4-5pm and 6-7pm 🎻 Exceptional classical performances from the Surround Sound musicians ⭐ The perfect option for first-time classical concert-goers ⛪ The beautiful candlelit All Saints Blackheath General Info📅 Date: Sunday 4th May 🕒 Time: 4-5 p.m or 6-7 p.m ⏳ Duration: 60 minutes ‘A knockout from start to finish’ - The Guardian Celebrate the bank holiday weekend with an unforgettable candlelit evening of music. World class soloist Harriet Mackenzie performs alongside the elite musicians of Surround Sound for these joyous one hour recitals. Choose from two performances at 4-5pm or 6-7pm. Step into springtime with the joy of Mozart’s unparalleled Divertimento in D before revelling in the lush beauty of Vaughan William’s legendary ‘Lark Ascending’. Luxuriate in the romance Elgar’s Salut d’amour and Chanson de matin before being whisked away to sultry Argentina for the fireworks of Winter and Spring from Piazzolla’s Tango-fueled ‘Four Seasons of Buenos Aires’. About the artists: Harriet Mackenzie is an internationally renowned violinist known for her “searing intensity” and “captivating” performances (The Strad). A celebrated concerto soloist Harriet has performed across 5 continents with acclaimed performances alongside the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Harriet’s recordings have received five stars from The Times and nominations for 'Recording of the Year' by Music Web International. Surround Sound is a dynamic ensemble of top-class classical musicians uniting for exceptional one-off chamber performances. The each regularly play as principals in major orchestras and shine in West End shows and film sessions, bringing unrivaled artistry to every performance. From our audience: The most exhilarating and exciting performance!’ “I was blown away!! Please note: This is a one hour programme. There are two concert times available. All Saints Blackheath Concerts are at 4pm and 6pm You may also want to consider coming to: St Mary’s Islington Concerts are at 6pm and 8pm on 3rd May. Tickets Band A £45 (front stalls and pews from the choir stalls onwards) Band B £35 (middle seats and pews from before the choir stalls and backwards) Band C £25 (rear seats and some restricted view) VIP: £75 (best seats in row A and front rows and 1/2 a bottle of champagne VIP Couples ticket - £140 - best seats for two, champagne bottle shared between two, early admission to venue. To support charity Music in Action and their mission to help disadvantaged children and bring music to communities please email info@musicjersey.com Information Source: Surround Sound | eventbrite

The Fly 2025 | Opening Weekend 🚀 The Fly Lacrosse Sixes: Where Sport Meets Spectacle 🚀 Are you ready to witness lacrosse like never before? The Fly Lacrosse Sixes Lacrosse is not just a game; it's a sports phenomenon set to take the world by storm! The Fly is the world's leading Olympic Sixes Lacrosse league bringing together the best lacrosse players and coaches across the UK and Europe to compete for the coveted title at The Fly 2025. Immerse yourself in the high-octane world of Sixes Lacrosse. The high-speed, high-scoring spectacle; this is where the thrill of field lacrosse merges with the intensity of box lacrosse, creating an exhilarating experience for players and fans alike. The league embodies everything that makes lacrosse great – athleticism, physicality, and sheer skill – and amplifies it. Don't miss out on the chance to be a part of history. Secure your spot in the stands and witness the future Olympians of Lacrosse! Grab your tickets today! Learn More Information Source: The Fly | eventbrite