What to do in London - The Cultural Exposé

We didn’t have to think too long and hard about this one.  For all this year’s hip and cultural happenings, this PA from A Tribe Called Quest’s legendary member Q-Tip (in my ‘hood of all places) has to go down as one of the most exciting  - and random -  gigs of 2011. Much love to Amelia from Put Me On It who spread the word on Facebook a day before the show, along with YoYo hosts Seb Chew and Leo Greenslade for pulling this trick out the bag.  You can re-live the brilliant night in photos, just here….

So with all our highlights now done and dusted, we’d like to say a very happy New Year to you and yours for this weekend - see ya in 2012! 

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Yes, learning how to get down on the wheels of steel - both the new and old school way - was definitely a major highlight of the year; especially as we were taught by some of the most notable jockeys in the game, courtesy of Ministry of Sound. Read about our experience here…

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We briefly left London in the summer to attend the Flow Festival in Helsinki - and it was BRILLIANT! Check out our extensive coverage of the multi-art fest here (photo gallery), here (daily diary) and here (review)…




 

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This critically-acclaimed silent movie debuted at this year’s London Film Festival, and it’s been receiving rave reviews ever since.  The public will get to see what all the  much deserved fuss is about on December 30th, but in the meantime you can read our review here…

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Contributor Rachel Segal Hamilton checked out this major retrospective from the provocative Ms Emin earlier this year and the brilliant show reaffirmed the artist’s penchant for thought-provoking honesty and self-deprecation.

Read our review here…

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As usual, there’s a whole heap of parties going on, and too right - we’re about to step into 2012!!!! Saying that, our general advice for a grand New Year’s Eve is:

We like The Notewell’s Advent Calendar of playlists - any of those might do -  and you might be inspired by this quickie how-to  guide from our cousins across the Atlantic. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gwaNuzJNdnw

Keeping in line with the Christmas season, a number of churches will be opening their doors on the New Year’s Eve to offer an alternative and thoughtful way to bring into the New Year. http://www.htb.org.uk/whats-on/events/new-years-eve-worship-and-prayer-party

….Ideally at a spot that’ll give you a nice view of the London Eye fireworks. See ViewLondon’s list of restaurants with great views, like Ping Pong near the Royal Festival Hall http://www.viewlondon.co.uk/restaurants/restaurants-to-watch-new-years-eve-fireworks-recommended-London-463.html

But only if the price is right - check out our alternative picks below:

• Willie Wonka’s Chocolate Factory, NYE 2011 @ Anaya London - “Charlie And The Chocolate Factory” themed party night featuring champagne, chocolate fountains, Umpa Lumpas and a chance to win that golden ticket! £35 xclusivetouch.co.uk/new-years-eve-anaya-london

• The Big Shed Inch presents The Spirit Of New Orleans - The Book Club presents a Jazz/R&B night headlined by an array of big name DJs in honour of 2012 £20 in advance/ £10 after 1am http://www.facebook.com/events/124856100959163/

•  Queen Of Hoxton New Year’s Eve Disco - A New Year’s Eve DISCO featuring various big names, artists and DJs, including cocktail reception and a few extra surprises £15 advance, £20 on the door www.queenofhoxton.com/nye

•  Players Ball New Year’s Eve with Hip Hop Karaoke at The Social - These two established and very popular events collab for a special New Year’s edition £20 (and only a few tickets left!) www.thesocial.com/2011/11/players-ball-new-years-eve-with-hip-hop-karaoke

•  The Doctor’s Orders New Year’s Eve Party, The Big Chill House - Expect truly thumping and soulful Hip-Hop courtesy of some exclusive DJs, all in line with the season. £20 thedoctorsorders.com/diary_nye

•  We, Like You New Year’s Eve Party, Bloomsbury Bowling Lanes - 
A special night full of music performances from artists of all kinds, also plenty of activities such as table football and of course, bowling £20 www.bloomsburylive.com

•  New Years Eve at Guanabara - 
A spice up to the entry of 2012 as a Brazilian party is on hand at Guanabara, everything from live music to Capoiera. Starts from £20 inc. 3-course meal nye.guanabara.co.uk

• Urban Nerds - This underground electronic bash is promising alot of mayhem, and sees the crew team up with BassLaced, as well as round up a selection of dope acts. www.urban-nerds.com/event/urban-nerds-nye-2011-2012

What are you planning to do this New Year’s Eve?  Tell us in the comments section! 

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You’ve got your pressies (yeeeeeeeey! nay?), the crackers have popped, and you’ve probably stuffed yourself with enough food to get you through the week. But to avoid another year of being incarcerated at home, we’ve come up with a few ideas to make the most of the post-Christmas week before worrying about what to do on New Year’s Eve  (that’s tomorrow’s post!):

La Soiree London at The Roundhouse runs into the New Year, so look forward to an evening of unique cabaret acts, featuring roller skating star Nate Cooper and hula hoop extraordinaire Yulia Pykhtina www.roundhouse.org.uk

It’s a ludicrious suggestion in the dead of Winter (or IS it?!?!?) Christmas Swimming at Hampton pool runs until January 2nd and you’ll be pleased to know it’s heated) www.hamptonpool.co.uk (Pic by Glenn Copus)

We’ve extended our photography competition to January 6th, and with some pretty incredible prizes up for grabs (camcorders, three course meals, cinema tickets, free photography workshops, the WORKS!), it won’t hurt to grab your camera or smartphone, take a quick snap of your city, and send it in to photos@theculturalexpose.co.uk. You could WIN! www.theculturalexpose.co.uk/win/photography-competition-snap-your-ldn

As usual, the January sales kick off on Boxing Day across the country - but to make the most of the bargain-hunting season, plan what you’re gonna buy, roll with a friend, and whatever you do, queue early!  www.latestjanuarysales.co.uk

Our favourite East End nightspot The Book Club hosts the ultimate Ping Pong showdown on December 27th, with prizes to be won! www.facebook.com/events/301563793206196

It’s easy to forget that the Jewish community also mark this season with Hannukah, and the beautiful 8-day festival starts to wrap up at the Bevis Marks Synagogue - the oldest in Britain - with a Hanukkah service on Tuesday, December 27th. www.bevismarks.org.uk

They say it’s a secret, but it looks like Trading Places and Die Hard (classics!) are being screened at the Roxy Bar and Screen on December 28th - there will be plenty of pizza too and entry is FREE! www.roxybarandscreen.com

The Hoxton Square Bar and Kitchen will be hosting a night of live music from indie bands like Bonfire Nights plus various DJ sets on December 28th. Great excuse for a two-step.  www.hoxtonsquarebar.com

Guess what folks? I’m running the Berlin half-marathon next April and need to get my training on pronto - so the post-Christmas week will be a great opportunity to make the most of the empty streets if you’re into running - plus, I’ll be getting inspiration from Team Bangs on a Run - a great collective of lady runners fronted by savvy London blogger Bangs and a Bun. http://bangsandabun.com/2011/12/introducing-team-bangs-on-the-run-3

The Dulwich Picture Gallery is currently celebrating its 200th year with an awesome exhibition of internationally loaned works.  Currently on show is The Adoration of the Shepherds from the Italian great Domenichino. Until January 8th. www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk

If you’ve never heard of Amplified, it’s about time you do. They’re an incredible crew of DJs who play progressive hip-hop, funk, soul and alternative, and always get the party started right.  Head down to their annual soiree at The Bowery, 8:30-2:30am. Admission is £7 before 10pm, £10 after.  https://www.facebook.com/events/233076603431557/

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Imagine my surprise one  Wednesday evening, as I strolled along a street in London and entered a building, only to be transported to war torn 1940’s?! …  time travelling sans the DeLorean, perhaps? Not quite. Truth is, I was paying a little trip to the new Secret Cinema event. And what an experience it was. Only thing is, I have sworn to tell no one!

Ok, so I  can let you in on some of the details…This new site is incredible and the building is perfect for the event. The classic event  format goes something like this.  You receive an invite and from then on, you receive clues as to what the film may be. When you enter the site you are literally tranplanted into the film, complete with sets and actors - and it’s a disorientating yet entertaining experience. You are encouraged to get into the character, fancy dress and all, and become part of the show - and it’s a great chance to flex those thespian muscles, interacting with the professionals and actively working out what the film is. If you prefer a passive view, perch yourself  on one of the purpose built sets and let your mind cogs go in overdrive as the team play out what can best be described as one huge game of charades. There’s no prizes for guessing, except one big film geek pat on the back (the holy grail if you ask me!).

Films at Secret Cinema events are always classics that you should see at some point in your life, and past films include The Warriors, Funny Face, If… and Ghostbusters, amongst others. I’m under oath not to spill the beans about what this season’s film actually is, so you will have to get yourself down there to be in on the secret. And remember, once you’re in, tell no one.

Secret Cinema runs until 22 January 2012 - and now they’ve launched Secret Restaurant, a new theatrical food experience in partnership with the Michelin-starred St. John,at the site of the Secret Cinema event. For more info, visit secretcinema.org.

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Supper clubs - a one-night experience run by enthusiasts and open to the general public - have taken off in the past couple of years. They’re now very easy to organise and publicise through social media, and pre-sell tickets through services like Eventbrite or Paypal. But going to a supper club is a great way to eat good food in unusual settings and meet new people. One thing I particularly like about them is that all payment is done in advance - unlike going out for dinner at a restaurant there are no nasty moments when the bill arrives! So here are five of the best, illustrating the diversity available. There are lots of resources for finding supper clubs - for example Guestaurant or my site - londonpopups.com - see if you get inspired by these, and then get involved!

Burger Monday 

Daniel Young runs this group, aiming to elevate the burger to its rightful position as a culinary highlight. He gets a great butcher to make a burger, and a great chef (including teams from Hawksmoor and Salt Yard) to devise a three course menu around it. But beware - this is the hottest ticket in town, as the most recent events have sold out within 20 minutes. Daniel also runs other events like SpagWednesday, which are easier to get tickets to.http://youngandfoodish.com/events/burgermonday/( Picture courtesy of Paul Winch-Furness)

[caption id=”attachment_2981” align=”alignnone” width=”375” caption=”Pic: WenLin Soh, Edible Experiences”]

Plusixfive (pictured)

The +65/plusixfive supper club is devoted to Singaporean food (+65 is the international dialling code for Singapore), and the founder and resident chef Goz (pictured) and friends regularly entertain people in his home, cooking classic dishes with a modern twist. Guests bring payment (a minimum amount is suggested) and a bottle. If you’re looking for a fun, friendly supper club in someone’s house then this is a good place to start. http://plusixfive.wordpress.com

The Cornish Grill

This is a twist on a theme - a pop-up Sunday lunch. What started off as a pop-up barbecue in a pub garden has turned into probably the best sunday roast in London. Founder Matthew Chatfield supplies Cornish produce to some of the top London restaurants, and got the idea after hearing chefs describe how they cooked Sunday roasts. Lunches take place onthe last Sunday of the month, and cost £30 for 3 courses. http://www.cornishgrill.co.uk/

ferdiesfoodlab

ferdiesfoodlab is a regular supper club run by Simon Fernandez. Simon started a few years ago, as an extension of cooking for friends, and this has now evolved into regular banquets at Toynbee Hall, a grade II listed building. The events are usually fortnightly, on a Friday evening, and a minimum contribution of £45 is required from all guests. These always look like amazing parties, and have attracted some really good reviews. http://www.ferdiesfoodlab.co.uk/

Niko B’s Chocolates

Another twist - a supper club devoted to chocolates. This is an offshoot from the main Niko B organic chocolate business, and holds regular themed supper clubs where chocolate features in all courses. Events cost approximately £25, and are held at the Avo Hotel in Dalston. http://www.nikobchocolates.com/Events(2221275).htm (Words: Dan Calladine)

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I am…attracted to the drive, creativity and passion found in London. Arriving here from Australia five years ago this culture keeps me here, and I consider myself a Londoner now too. By day, I work in client service at a digital agency and I also have a couple of other projects going on.

The area in London I call home is… Clerkenwell. It’s all about EC1! I live right on Exmouth Market and being foodie I’m well situated. Also, I ride everywhere so being central for me is a bit of a life hack to keep travel simple.

I tend to get my threads from… ASOS as they really are the leader in terms of range, price, and best online shopping experience.

To enjoy London’s nightlife, you should… try the cocktails at 69 Colebrooke Row.

If I was mayor, I would… install cycle helmet vending machines in locations around the city and make helmets compulsory!

My favourite spot to check out art is… Wellcome Collection. The last thing I saw was ‘High Society’ earlier this year. There was this fantastic photo exhibition there that told the story of a chamber maid hooked on Laudanum by her domineering mistress in the 19th century.

I’d kindly tell a tourist to… go to Borough Market for mid-morning breakfast (to avoid the tourists), check out the free museums for the day and then head to Gordon’s Wine Bar in the evening.

The things I miss when I leave London are… London cafes and British food. I always judge a city by the quality of its restaurants and cafés. Due to the great British food revival British food rocks and (let’s face it!) thanks in part to us antipodeans, London cafes rock too

My soundtrack to London would be…

Fault Line by Black Rebel Motorcycle Club - epitomizes how I felt when I arrived in London, kind of lonely…But I’m finding my way!

Reach a Bit Further – Wild Beasts - This song just makes me think, I love it. Wild Beasts are a very original band. They’re amazing live.

Bon Iver’s Perth - This song surprises me every time I listen to it. To me, it captures my home town (Perth) perfectly.

(Research: Tosin Omilaju)

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If you like the West End but can’t keep up with theatre prices you might want to try the Battersea Arts Centre Scratch Nights. At only £1 a show (or pay as you go), BAC Scratch showcases their artists in residence and allows them  to test their ideas on a live audience to get feedback in the process - and such is the quality of the shows, even  Jerry Springer the Opera was created through the Scratch process.

Located not far from the trendy Northcote Road in Clapham Junction, the BAC is definitely a cool place to be. I went to see the multi-talented spoken-word poet, rapper-cum-playwright Kate Tempest a few months ago, and against  futuristic background music, the tattooed wordsmith was funny, witty, and entertaining, linking the theme of mythology to young peoples’ struggle in society.

What’s also great about the BAC is the atmosphere  (you can bring your drinks from the bar into the show) and meet the actors themselves, so for raw theatre that’s good on the pocket, the  BAC Freshly Scratched Christmas show takes place on December 22-23 2011.  (Words: Zaneta Denny) 

 For more info visit www.bac.org.uk. 

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Formerly a well-kept secret known as Granville Arcade, Brixton Village became increasingly popular this year, especially since Brixton local and the Guardian food critic Jay Rayner profiled it as “home to the most vibrant restaurant scene in London”. But in fact it’s much more, a perfect gem of a market that houses all a Londoner needs for a  perfect Saturday afternoon: fresh coffee and juices, an Italian ice cream shop, fish stalls, Colombian butchers selling hand made sausages, greengrocers,  vintage stalls…. and being Brixton, it keeps it real, multicultural, bustling and alive. Brixton Village is no Spitalfields, no sterile Covent Garden. This is where real Londoners come to eat, shop and talk.

You can access the Village through the blue arched entrances from Atlantic Road or Coldharbour Lane. And if you’re  hungry, I  highly recommend:

• Okan, the Japanese pancake house;
• Honest Burgers, for the real home-made variety  made with 35 day aged beef;
• Elephant for their masala chai and their spicy Pakistani street food;
• Kaosarn for authentic Thai;
• Take Two for its amazing jerk chicken;
• Etta’s Seafood for their crab fritters and lemon calamari;
• Brixton Cornercopia for modern English meals;
• And Bellantoni’s or Casa Sibilla for simple yet pleasurable Italian food.

If you just want a hot drink and a chat, you can’t do better than Relay Tearoom for their spicy African chai and red velvet cake or Federation coffee for the best New Zealand flat whites in South London.

But Brixton Village is a fashionista’s haven too.  Start off at United 80 for funky music, handmade leather clutches and stylish dresses made from Nigeria’s ankara fabric. Then check out Brixi for quirky unique pieces for your home, Circus for up and coming London designers, Saloon 97 and Bella West for vintage dresses and accessories as well as the Parisian run Leftovers and the 1950s vintage glam shop Rejuveante. Prices are cheaper than London’s more familiar jaunts - a vintage John Galliano dress was recently spotted at Rejuvenate for as little as £50.

With all that Brixton Village has to offer, no wonder locals long to keep Brixton Village to themselves, just a little bit longer - but if you’re a newcomer, we’ll let you off. (Words: Isioma Daniel) (Picture: Andy Broomfield )

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It’s been 17 years since Jeru The Damaja released his debut album The Sun Rises in the East and now on the eve of his sixth album, you have the chance to see the hip-hop veteran performing live in the capital. Taking place at The Relentless Garage Highbury, which has played host to a few major names,including Sugarhill Gang - this gig is sure to be quite something.

Jeru’s distinct 90’s style earned him a position up there with the greats, including the late Gangstarr member Guru. His critically acclaimed album Wrath of the Math was a massive hit 15 years back (how old do i feel!) and now he’s recruiting some old and new flames to collaborate with on his yet unnamed new release (or at least he ain’t letting the cat out the bag just yet). Expect to hear the likes of Large Professor, JuJu of Beatnuts fame and Pete Rock in there somewhere - and maybe a make-up track for him and Premier?? We can only hope! The wordsmith has been too long in the shadows, so we think it’s high time we all had a good dose of gimmickless, raw, unadultered hip-hop. See you down there. (Words: Laura Thornley)

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To celebrate the season of eating, drinking and being merry, The Book Club  held their “Bad Jumper Jingle Bell Rock” on December 9th.Shoreditch hipsters were invited to don their most cringeworthy jumpers and get ready to rock around the Christmas tree. Well, dodgy jumpers were aplenty, while reindeer, snowmen, santas and snowflakes all made a knitted appearance your gran would be proud of.

However the festive knits weren’t enough to stop a “disaster” during the night. News reached the Club that Rudolph (the reindeer,  of course) had broken his nose and a replacement was needed urgently. Guests saved the day by taking part in “reindeer testing activities” to recruit a replacement reindeer, with challenges that included:

• - demonstrating your galloping
• - braving arctic conditions (holding an ice cube against your nose)
• - being able to unwrap a present with your hooves
• - finding food in a bale of (glittery) hay
• - showing off your reindeer socialising skills
• - steer the sleigh without going off course
• - Being able to identify everyday sights from a flying reindeer’s perspective in the sky (well maybe not “everyday” sights - one of them was a man in a sombrero riding a bike!)

The reindeer recruitment was overseen by “Santa’s helpers” who played the panpipes and rewarded good skills with Christmassy goodies, candy canes or cinnamon shots. We recovered from the reindeer activities with some quirky cocktails, such as the Don’t Go to Dalston and The Angry Pirate. The celebrations continued with The Bikini Beach Band - who were in fact  wearing flares and fez’s - and their funky take on an eclectic range of music got even the dodgiest-dressed punters on the dance floor, before the night was wrapped up with a brilliant set from DJ Sean Rowley.  (Words: Clare Ebberson)

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Love or hate it, it’s hard to deny the impact that the tube and train network has on Londoners. And with a history that spans over 160 years, it’s no surprise that the city has its share of stations that have closed over the decades. The stories behind these derelict and disused buildings is something that fascinates me, especially as many tube and train lines still run through their decaying platforms. It’s what inspired me to write Do Not Alight Here, which takes the reader on 12 walks across London to explore old stations, tunnels and more, giving you the chance to go urban exploring and experience a part of London history often ignored by guidebooks. So here are some tips for seeing these intriguing places for yourself:

Although passed unaware by thousands every day, many abandoned tube and train stations are actually easy to spot. Seen a building with the same red bricks that many Underground stations have? It’s probably a former station. Bricked-up windows or doorways near current stations will also often be an old part no longer used.

London is forever changing. The downside is that its old stations are disappearing fast, so now’s the time to see them. Currently on the danger list are various structures behind Kings Cross, soon to be cleared as part of the re-development. Crossrail means that many old stations in the Docklands will also soon disappear, including Silvertown and North Woolwich.

A bit of a no-brainer, but visiting old station sites in the day isn’t just a good idea because they are easier to see. Go at night and you’ll look suspicious to the beady-eyed folks that man the CCTV cameras that several sites are protected by.

The true urban explorer is one who dares to venture inside a hidden building they find. But with abandoned stations it’s not advised, so don’t even try. Most still have active train lines running through them, while many old tube stations have empty lift shafts hundreds of feet deep. This makes them very dangerous. They are also monitored by cameras, with some even part-owned by the Ministry of Defence.

Many disused stations can easily be seen by riding along the current lines, and this route is one of the best. From Finchley Road to Baker Street you’ll see the old platforms of Swiss Cottage, Marlborough Road and Lords. Later on you can find more old platforms at Kings Cross, Barbican and Moorgate, before the journey ends with an old signal box and bay platform at Liverpool Street.

Peer into the darkness of the tunnels through the window when riding the tube. Simply wrap your hands around your face to block the light from the carriage and you’ll be rewarded with a glimpse of a secret London. Not convinced? Here’s an example: look out the right hand windows on a Central line train between Tottenham Court Road and Holborn, and you’ll see the remains of the platforms of British Museum station, closed 1933. (Words: Ben Pedroche)

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I am… a professional dancer, actress and a model loving the hotness of the bikram and living the life in the East side of London in Hackney. Moved here from Finland 4 years ago.

The area in London I call home is… Hackney. After few years in Camden we found our home in East. Got a large space full of little swings and things n hula hoops just off Kingsland road overlooking the canal. Our lovely large windows guarantee that we will need lots of hot chocolate to survive over the winter. I feel like I’m at home when I’m walking down the streets and get a chance to catch few familiar smiles and heys on my way. I love the spontaneous coffee catch ups and surprise long night outings after exhibition openings. My ‘home area’ seems to be within walking (cycling) distance. I rarely need to travel further than that to find the action.

I’ve got to have a meal at… The Breakfast Club. You can’t go wrong with the number 3 wrap. Sometimes during the week I gotta grab the tastiest street food from the Whitecross Street Market. In the evenings the pop up restaurants got something new to offer and of course the there is all these Vietnamese places on Kingsland road.

I tend to get my threads (clothes) from… here and there. Yesterday I did some great fabric founds from the Cloth House in Soho. I love to check the treats of Dover Street Market and always pop into the Start in Shoreditch just cause they simply got the loveliest staff there. Sample sales and short trips abroad always rule and friends wardrobes are great too! Just gotta keep your ears and eyes open.

To enjoy London’s nightlife, you should… keep your ears and eyes open (again). Be with great company, look for the gallery openings and exhibitions and let the night lead your way. House parties is the way…. to keep going til the next day ;)

If I was mayor, I would… make the streets more cyclist friendly and fix the pot holes on the roads.

My favourite spot to check out art is… isn’t art everywhere? That’s why London’s so great, there’s always something going on for everyone. It’s all out there, you just gotta go and get yours. When it comes to performing arts, War Horse at the New London Theatre is one not to miss!

I’d kindly tell a tourist to… keep on running.

The things I miss when I leave London are… friends and the chances the city gives to you. The action. Surprises around the corner.

My soundtrack to London would be (name roughly 3 songs and what makes them so interesting) 

Tanlines - Real Life - RAD TIMES! this video says it all!

Cerebral Ballzy - Standing Tall - You sometimes gotta feel like 15 forever and let go. Influences everywhere, just remember to stand tall.

Janet Jackson - Rhythm Nation - Gotta love the old skool tunes! People of the world unite, London, you gotta have the rhythm.

Fleetwood Mac - Everywhere - Because I’ve met some of the most amazing people in London.

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Theatre Rites has been setting the benchmark for outstanding theatre for many years now, stretching way back to 1995 when they first formed. Going from strength-to-strength, they’ve now teamed up with the Barbican and Salzburg Festival to present Mojo - a topsy-turvy fantasy world of puppets and artists, bursting with energy and light as the characters discover their, ermm, mojo.

If that all sounds a bit Austin Powers for you, you’ll be pleased to hear that since i’ts directed, in theory, to a younger audience its probably less “Yeah, Baby, Yeah!” and more about dealing with the growing pains and pleasures of development and change in a magical and thought-provoking way. And if that sounds a bit heavy for you, it isn’t -  the aim of Theatre-Rites is to use energy, art and movement to bring about magic and inspire the imagination and we think, with an award-winning team of Arthur Pita and Sue Buckmaster, this show makes a delightful change from the usual Christmas Panto.

Grownups often hear  the words “youth theatre” and think that it isn’t for them  but this shoudn’t be the case as it can, no doubt, teach us all a thing or two about where our Mojo might be hiding. So prepare to take your inner child on a journey of self discovery! (Words: Laura Thornley and Tosin Omilaju) 

Theatre-Rites is on at the Barbican from December 16-31st.  Click here for more info.

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I had to admire the chutzpah of the marketing guy who sent me, unsolicited, a pretty-generous gift voucher to spend at the newly-opened Soho branch of growing Indochine canteen chain Banana Tree. ”We would like to invite you personally to come and try out our new restaurant in Soho!” went the accompanying email; “If you like us, blog it! - if you hate us - let us know, as we are all about improvement and value all opinions, especially yours.”

Flattery will get you everywhere with me, and where it doesn’t get you bribery usually will, so an offer comprising both was always going to be pretty compelling. If I felt the slightest hint of righteous indignation at so flagrant an attempt to curry my favour, it was swiftly dispelled by the mischievous knowledge that even if I did love the place I didn’thave to write about it, and if I hated the place, I didn’t have to not write about it - the very opposite of their desired outcomes and more fool them for sending out money willy-nilly. Talk about sticking it to the (marketing) man.

But such an expensive and potentially risky marketing strategy must have been backed up by as much confidence in the product as money in the budget and sure enough, Banana Tree was, well, pretty top banana…

…To read the rest, click here to visit Hugh Wright’s blog, Twelvepointfivepercent.com - London Restaurant Reviews Of Real Discretion. 

Follow Hugh on Twitter: @HRWright

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From a quick look at the plot - which revolves around a newly elected Pope that cannot bring himself to greet the faithful, leaving his advisors to seek help from a renowned psychoanalyst -  you would be excused to think that this is nothing more than the Italian version of The King’s Speech. However, both films tackle a similar subject from two different angles.

Melville (Michel Piccoli), the central character,  has the more daunting task of facing his fear of his new role and responsibilities on his own. After a brief awkward session with the psychoanalyst, Melville escapes the Vatican and starts wandering around the city. As expected, a legendary actor Piccoli perfectly captures the child-like enthusiasm with which Melville embraces the simple joys of life that he has been deprived from for a long time, adding a warm and affecting touch to these scenes and helping us feel emotionally connected to a character who happens to be the Pope.

Unfortunately, whenever the story moves away from Melville’s stroll to follow the life in the Vatican, the film loses some of its charm. By showing us how the initially disorientated psychoanalyst ends up appearing almost at ease, Moretti makes a nice point about how confinement does not necessarily equal unhappiness but these mostly comic scenes feel somewhat tame (with the exception of the impromptu volleyball game which is as fun as it sounds).

It is difficult though to be overly critical of a film that never succumbs to the forced sentimentality often associated with this type of stories. We Have a Pope’s strongest merit is that it manages to warm our hearts not by feeding us with the idealistic notion that “if you believe in yourself you can accomplish anything” but by helping us realise the sheer happiness that lies in accepting that not everyone needs to become a leader. (Words: Apostolos Kostoulas)

 In cinemas now. 

Original Article

Having a sword duel with a stranger, getting a tattoo and dancing a jig to a French gypsy band are just some of the things you can expect from Shore Leave - a  quirky, sailor-themed night out for “drown hearts and lost lovers”. The swords might be plastic and the tattoos (from the Tatt Shack) might wash off in the shower, but this is still the closest you will get to feeling like a sailor without setting sail on the oceans. For the past 2 years, Shore Leave has been bringing its monthly alternative nights to London, bringing with it sailors, wenches, marauders, pirates, accordions, swing dancing, a postcard photobooth and more. So if you are ready to party as though you haven’t seen land in months, then we say “ships ahoy”!  (Words: Clare Ebberson) 

Shore Leave takes place on December 9th at Bethnal Green Working Men’s Club; click here for more details. 

Original Article

I am a… Londonite photographer, I love everything photo-related and strive to keep my work fresh. I cover events from Burlesque nights and underground film screenings to weddings and exhibition openings. I have lived in London for six years now and feel that the city really inspires me in work and play. Every day is different and I never stop discovering here. I think it might be love.

The area in London I call home is… right on the river in Battersea, which is awesome. I haven’t been here that long but have recently stumbled on lots of little thrift shops and quirky places off the beaten track. My favorite spot to pass the time is Battersea Village Square; it’s a micro hub of world cuisine with Italian, Indian, Thai, Lebanese and seafood restaurants. There is always something going on there, whether is be a wacky jazz trio playing or an outdoor zumba class - it’s all going down in the square! I grew up on a farm but I was never terribly keen on overdosing on fresh air and frankly I find wellington boots ugly and incredibly uncomfortable, so like dear Dick Wittington (and many others before me) I packed my bags and journeyed to the Big Smoke to seek my fortune. Whilst on arrival I was initially disappointed to find the streets were not all paved with gold, I have found that there are more valuable hidden treasures around the city!

I’ve got to have a meal at… Borough Market. It is certainly up there - although I am not sure you would call it a ‘meal’ more of a graze / gorge of all the amazing artesian foods they have. Places with offers on are also a winner for me for a couple of reasons – firstly they get you out of the rut of going to the same places so it’s a bit of a journey of discovery, and secondly I unashamedly love the smug feeling of getting a good deal!

I tend to get my threads (clothes) from… shops. Especially ones that sell very beautiful and incredibly uncomfortable shoes, sadly I’m drawn to them like a moth to a flame… Will I ever learn?

To enjoy London’s nightlife, you should… expect the unexpected! I always go out with an open mind and try to find out what’s going on before hand. I am really lucky in my line of work that I get to hear about, and photograph, lots of really cool things that happen around London. My main tip is to choose an area and stick with it. It’s a belief shared by Londoners that everywhere is an hour away - whether you are going a couple of stops on the bus or tubing across the zones it always takes an hour!

If I was mayor, I would… crack the whip and get my fellow cyclists fully clad in neon and helmets and supply lots of flashing lights. I love, love, love my trusty stead and couldn’t be in London without it – it’s pretty much the only way I get around. But I have been knocked off a couple of times, it’s not fun…

My favourite spot to check out art is… always changing. But ultimately it’s actually my flat as it’s covered in art I adore, and lots of my own photos – it’s like a private gallery! Having worked in the art world and a keen interest in photography and beautiful things, I’m signed up to various galleries so often visit new shows and pop up exhibitions whether they be on Cork Street or private homes. I am lucky enough to photograph for the Tate Museums so I never miss their exhibitions. I get a real rush from going to auctions and love seeing what the trends are and who is buying.

I’d kindly tell a tourist to… Get out of Leicester Square and Covent Garden and try something new, there is a lot more to London then chain restaurants and people handing out flyers, I promise! Also the number 11 bus is a really good route – you get to see a lot of the sights.

The things I miss when I leave London are… hmm… it’s far easier to talk about the things I would NOT miss about London. One is the dodgy paving stones that when trodden on in the rain submerges your feet in water to your ankles. Another is the bus drivers who see you running and waving frantically but then pull away at the last second leaving you in a puff of bus smoke.

My soundtrack to London would be: 

Airborne Toxic – “Sometime Around Midnight” During the day the city is so hectic you barely have time to think, I find my quiet times are always at night. To me this song expresses that as it’s all about switching off and reassessing your feelings and thoughts without the white noise.

The XX – “Intro” A dear friend of mine got married in a photographic studio in east London and this is what accompanied her entrance. When the music started the atmosphere was electric everyone had goosebumps. The song wasn’t out there in the mainstream at that point and the words I would use describe to London also apply to this beautiful piece of music. Epic, urban, hypnotic, fresh and most of all… Love.

Cash Machine – “Hard Fi” This was released around the time I moved to London and I listened to it over and over and over again, it was kind of an anthem for me at that time and has a great beat for stomping around getting to know the city.

Original Article

In a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it underground bar on Little Portland Street, is a legendary Hip Hop Karaoke night - the only way to spend your Thursday evenings. The local office boys and girls rush to get the drinks in straight after clocking out and, with free entry for all, the night gets buzzing pretty early on.

The first rule of Hip Hop Karaoke is that you’ll need to pick a song on a first-come, first-serve basis, as there’s usually a small crowd of eager show-stoppers signing themselves up. The second rule of Hip Hop Karaoke is that no booing or heckling is allowed, which is a relief if you momentarily lose track on the lyric sheet. The third rule is to let your rap fantasies run wild! Performances by the girls to Ol’ Dirty Bastard’s “Hey Dirty” and Ludacris’s “Move Bitch” have been encored with massive props, so you don’t need to stick with Missy Elliot or Nicki Minaj if you don’t want to!

[caption id=”attachment_2829” align=”alignnone” width=”590” caption=”Hip-Hop karaoke The Social © Ben Rowe www.benrowephotography.com”]

The friendly crowd doesn’t just stand around  either as everyone is up for getting down to old school hip-hop and RnB. The host, Bobby Champagne Jnr, is a sight to behold in his silky gold bomber jacket, but he’s not just there for decoration! He keeps the crowd all in check and make sure they show nothing but love. Performers receive a free beer, standing ovation and a ground stomping that could cause a small earthquake and, if you’re really lucky, a rewind to do-over the best bits.

Hip-Hop Karaoke takes place every Thursday at The Social.  For more info, visit the Hip Hop Karaoke Facebook group.  (Words: Lamiat Sabin)

(A special thanks to www.benrowephotography.com for the pictures!) 

Here’s Hip Hop Karaoke in action:

Original Article

When all’s said and done, we can agree on one thing - London is a pretty exciting and vibrant place to live in (despite some hellish mornings on the tube!) and the longer you live here, the more experiences there are to be had, as well as unique places to discover. Everyone has a favourite activity, shop, hangout, bar, club, restaurant, market  – heck, even bridge…! -  so here at TCé, we want to see yours!

[caption id=”attachment_2851” align=”alignnone” width=”590” caption=”Shunt Pinata Party”]

Simply take a snap on your smartphone, digital camera or even your SLR of your favourite places to be, things to do or experiences in London to be in with a chance of winning the following prizes:

1st Prize

The amazing new Polaroid X720E waterproof digital camcorder, which allows adventurous photo types to record both on land and underwater up to three metres deep,  a £100 gift voucher to enjoy a “meal for two in the dark” courtesy of Dans Le Noir AND a free pass to a Culture Club Photography Workshop®.

Second Prize

A fabulous three-course meal for you plus a friend with wine included at any branch of Little Bay, one of London’s cosiest and quirkiest restaurant chains, and 50% off  a Culture Club Photography Workshop®

 Third Prize

Two tickets to a film of your choice at perennial TCé fave, the wonderful Ritzy cinema in Brixton and 25% off  a Culture Club Photography Workshop®

To enter, e-mail up to 5 lovely pictures to photos@theculturalexpose.co.uk (JPEGs only, no more than 500MB please!) for everyone to marvel at…and include your full name and a brief description of the image/subject. Pics will be judged on subject and creativity and the closing date is December 23rd. Good luck!

[caption id=”attachment_2854” align=”alignnone” width=”590” caption=”Speed Listening at The Book Club”]

Competition Terms & Conditions  

• The competition launches on December 1st 2011 and runs until December 23rd 2011.
• It is open to anyone aged 18 or over within the UK only, apart from those directly working for The Cultural Exposé (TCé).
• You must be the sole author and owner of the copyright of all images entered. You will retain copyright of your images at all times and always be credited alongside your picture anytime it is used.
• Pics need to have been taken in the month of December 2011 (not earlier!) 
• Pics CANNOT be Instagram’d. You can use different angles, viewpoints, close-ups, etc. to be clever  but not an app that does creative for you.  Sorry. 
• By entering your images you grant permission to TCé to reproduce the images in connection with the competition and in the promotion of possible future TCé photography competitions. Any other usage of your images on the TCé site is subject to your formal permission.
• Our favourite entries will be showcased on the Tumblr blog and on the TCé website.
• Unsuitable images that do not relate to the theme of the competition will be disqualified and potentially removed.
• E-mail addresses will be added to The Cultural Exposé mailing list, but you can unsubscribe at any time.
• The promoter’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into concerning the result.

Promoter: The Cultural Exposé/The Culture Club, Kensington W8 6QL  

About our sponsors:

 Polaroid

One of the best-known, recognizable and trusted brands when it comes to instant photography, Polaroid has been around for more than 70 years starting with polarized sunglasses which then evolved into instant film. And they’re one of our faves too… www.polaroid.co.uk

Dans Le Noir

Imagine eating or drinking in pitch darkness without knowing what’s on the menu  - kinda strange right? - well, Dans Le Noir specialise in putting your other senses to the test by providing one of the most adventurous dining experiences anywhere in LDN. www.danslenoir.com/london

Little Bay

Little Bay Restaurants offer high-quality Modern-European cuisine at very reasonable prices. They are now taking Christmas Party bookings for December as well as for Christmas Day so why not pop down to one of their many branches in Farringdon, Croydon, Kilburn and now Brighton! www.littlebay.co.uk/london

The Cultural Club Photography Workshops®

Launched in May 2011, these fun and interactive workshops are  designed for people keen to explore and discover London while learning the basics of photography. Tutors include acclaimed photographer Joy Ekpeti, who’s past clients include Condé Nast
The Times and HSBC.  www.cultureclubphotographyworkshops.co.uk

Ritzy Cinema, Brixton

Oasis Cinemas bought The Ritzy in 1994 and in conjunction with Brixton Challenge spent one year renovating it to its former glory - adding four screens, a bar and a cafe – making it the largest independent specialist cinema in the country. In 2003 it joined City Screen Ltd (aka Picturehouse), the country’s leading specialist cinema operator. But all you need to know really is it’s blimmin’ gorgeous…! www.picturehouses.co.uk/cinema/Ritzy_Picturehouse

Original Article