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All events
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2 to the power 10
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
This wonderful exhibition of postcard art, curated by Geoffrey Harrison, showcases the work and reach of 32 contemporary Bloomsbury artists, with input from over 1000 collaborators, sourced from their networks around the world. Supported by the British Postal Museum & Archive and Cass Art. More info
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360°
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Artist Ben Ashton's Polyhedral art structure in Queen Square will be used throughout the festival to capture stereoscopic scenes. The nearby Art Workers Guild plays host to a small exhibition of Ashton's work, explaining the evolution of the project. More info
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A Bloomsbury Foursome
Sat 22 Oct 18:00-19:00
These four actors turned poets present a lusty hour of words and music on the big stuff of life, interlaced with their cheeky banter and by L.A.Salami’s guitar and harmonica. More info
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Acoustic Architecture
Sat 22 Oct 17:30-19:00, Sun 23 Oct 17:30-19:00
Discover the architectural and acoustic intricacies of Hawksmoor's last church through a distinctive musical journey performed by Soundcastle. Gail Macleod and Hannah Dunster's composition for thirteen musicians highlights the transient beauty of the conic environments of this stunning venue. More info
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Affirmative It's K-9!
Sat 22 Oct 15:00-16:00
Suitable for ages 6+ Come and meet K-9 probably the most famous cyberdog in history and his keeper Dale Who, and hear some of his many stories about all the Doctors. More info
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Art and Society in Bloomsbury
Sat 22 Oct 11:00-12:30, Sun 23 Oct 11:30-13:00
Who receives all the money from the copyright of 'Peter Pan'? Where did Charles Dickens write his 'Oliver Twist'? Whose monument can you find in Queen Square? Join us for an exciting one and a half hour walk through central Bloomsbury and find out all this and more...! More info
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Bibliotherapy Taster Sessions
Sat 22 Oct 14:30-17:00
Drop in for a taster session with our in house bibliotherapist Ella Berthoud to discuss your reading life –past, present and future. Whatever your concerns, dreams or challenges, we'll take exceptional care and effort to create a reading prescription that's perfect for you. More info
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Bloomsbury Parks Trail
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Discover the fascinating histories of Bloomsbury's beautiful parks and gardens with this special Festival trail. Pick up a list of questions set by some of the Friends groups of these spaces at the Information Stalls, and meander through some of London's loveliest green spaces at your own pace. More info
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Bloomsbury to Sussex
Sat 22 Oct 11:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-18:00
Emily Maude's beautifully nostalgic exhibition of illustrations and creations is inspired by the houses of Bloomsbury, and notable Sussex landmarks which featured in the Bloomsbury Group's lives. More info
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Books and Crafts Markets
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Browse amongst Bloomsbury's best bookshops and the work of a diverse range of exciting local designer-makers:a great opportunity to purchase unique and wonderful items. More info
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Bowen & Bowen
Sat 22 Oct 10:30-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 12:00-17:00
This striking exhibition presents the work of Bowen & Bowen; a father and son who unseat and thoroughly subvert the careful traditions of English slipware. More info
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British Harpsichord Society Concert
Sat 22 Oct 15:00-17:00
In association with the British Harpsichord Society, Jane Clark, Derek Adlam and Tom Foster invite you to enjoy an enchanting afternoon of François Couperin’s Pièces de Clavecin in the Foundling Museum's beautiful Picture Gallery. More info
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British Museum
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-17:30, Sun 23 Oct 10:00-17:30
Founded in 1753, and housed in one of Britain’s architectural landmarks, the British Museum’s extensive collection spans two million years of human history. More info
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Brunei Gallery, SOAS
Sat 22 Oct 10:30-17:00
The Brunei Gallery Hosts a programme of changing contemporary and historical exhibitions from Asia, Africa and the Middle East, and presents and promotes cultures from these regions. The permanent displays include Objects of Instruction: Treasures of the school of Oriental and African Studies. The Japanese Roof Garden is a quiet haven on the roof of the gallery. More info
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Brunswick Open House
Sat 22 Oct 11:00-11:30, Sat 22 Oct 11:45-12:15, Sat 22 Oct 12:30-13:00, Sat 22 Oct 13:15-13:45
Designed by architect Patrick Hodgkinson the Brunswick Centre was grade II listed in 2000 for it's special architectural and historic interest. These guided tours include access to the 2nd floor podium level and a typical Brunswick flat. Meet at Boots the chemist on Marchmont Street. More info
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Cabinet of Curiosities
Sat 22 Oct 11:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 13:00-19:00
This annual exhibition sees Ben Pentreath's boutique crammed with his and Bridie Hall's marvellous collection of extraordinary, mysterious and mischievous objects, as well as Hall's debut collection of crafted pieces. More info
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Caravaggio: Exile and Death
Sat 22 Oct 14:00-15:00
Darshan Singh Bhuller shares his new dance theatre work, inspired by the life and work of the 17th century master painter, Caravaggio in an open rehearsal format. Caravaggio: Exile and Death takes the audience on one man's search for forgiveness and redemption, following a life fascinated with youth and sexuality, violence, solitude and love. More info
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Cartoon Museum
Sat 22 Oct 10:30-17:30, Sun 23 Oct 12:00-17:30
From Dennis the Menace to Steve Bell, Hogarth to Ronald Searle and Heath Robinson to Bunny Suicides the Cartoon Museum shows the best of British cartoons, caricatures and comic strips from the 18th century to the present. Free entry with the Festival Programme. More info
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Children's Activities
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Come along to the Children's Activities tent in Russell Square, where all weekend there will be a packed programme of fun activities for little Festival visitors! More info
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Come and Sing!
Sun 23 Oct 15:30-16:30
Join the Foundling Choir, led by Rachel Staunton for a rousing Sunday singalong: this fabulous community choir offers a programme of popular music, and the chance to join in! Go to SOAS reception for directions. More info
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Contemporary Architecture Walk
Sat 22 Oct 14:00-16:00, Sun 23 Oct 14:00-16:00
Discover historic Bloomsbury's newest architecture on this guided walking tour led by Peter Murray, Chairman of NLA – the centre for London’s built environment. More info
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Cream Tea and Conversation
Sat 22 Oct 16:00-17:00
Pop in to the delightful Persephone Books to enjoy a cream tea, beautiful book design and conversations about women writers. More info
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Cultural Art Exhibition
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
An exhibition of beautiful art pieces, including an illustrative mat (Nakshi Pati), traditional fishing boat (Nouka), rural house (Bangla Ghor), and rickshaw (Riksha Fusion), each inspired by imagery from Bangladesh and created by local people and groups in Camden. More info
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Dance Around The Place
Sat 22 Oct 12:00-19:15, Sun 23 Oct 11:15-17:00
The Place brings Russell Square to life with a series of entertaining, moving and surprising 'pop-up' dances. More info
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Dinos, Dodos and Dugongs: Family Activities
Sat 22 Oct 11:00-16:00
Suitable for Ages 6+ Come and explore amazing extinct animals for half term and the Bloomsbury Festival. Discover creatures ranging from endangered to long ago extinct in the Museum’s super specimen-based activities. Take the chance to discover dinosaurs, marvel at mammoths, tickle tigers and handle hippos with our skulls, skins, skeletons, scales and fossils. More info
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Disraeli, Khan and Friends
Sat 22 Oct 11:30-13:00, Sun 23 Oct 14:00-15:30
To whose concert were ladies asked to come without hoops to their skirts, and gentlemen without swords? Who fought for the prisoners’ rights in the 18th century? And which politician pioneered modern education for the Muslim community in India and lived in Mecklenburgh Square? Join us for an insightful hour and a half walk through Bloomsbury... More info
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Doctor Who in Comics: 1964-2011
Sat 22 Oct 10:30-17:30, Sun 23 Oct 12:00-17:00
Daleks, Davros, the Time Witch, K-9, Sarah Jane and many other favourites are all brought together in a stupendous exhibition of over 100 original comic pages. More info
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Extravagances and Incoherences
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Valerie Sauve's exhibition of small, framed drawings explores the poetry of intimate dreams, grand illusions and spiritual nature in the beautiful Chapel of Rest in St George's Gardens. More info
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Faber Contemporary Poets
Sun 23 Oct 14:00-15:00
Two of the top contemporary poets writing in English today read from their new work: 'The Casual Perfect' continues Lavinia Greenlaw's explorations of light and the borders of vision, while Daljit Nagra's 'Tippoo Sultan's Incredible White-Man-Eating Tiger Toy-Machine!!!' takes its cue from the eighteenth-century automaton. In association with the Institute of English Studies. More info
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Family Activities at the Foundling Museum
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-17:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Suitable for Ages 3-12 Use your specially designed backpack to explore this incredible museum: create your own masterpiece, dress up, complete a museum trail and discover the stories behind the Foundling Hospital and its collections. More info
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Family Fun: Thomas Coram Live!
Sat 22 Oct 10:30-12:30, Sat 22 Oct 13:30-16:00
Suitable for Ages 4-12 The magic of drama brings Foundling Hospital founder Thomas Coram back to life! Meet Coram as he wonders through the museum telling stories about his time in the Americas and how he opened the Foundling Hospital in London. More info
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Feisty Women of Bloomsbury
Sat 22 Oct 15:00-16:30, Sun 23 Oct 16:00-17:30
Join us for an hour and a half and find out about the influential, controversial and wonderful women who have been associated with central Bloomsbury! More info
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Food Market and Bar
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-20:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Featuring many wonderful local foody businesses who have re-located to Russell Square for the weekend, the scrumptious Festival Food Market is a necessary stop off point to re-fuel in between Festival activities. More info
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Football Tournament
Sun 23 Oct 12:00-17:00
Take part in the fantastic Bloomsbury Festival Cup! This unique football tournament unites young people aged 10-14 years from all areas and backgrounds to enjoy football in the fun and friendly atmosphere of Coram's Fields. Shin pads essential please bring your own. More info
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Foundling Museum
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-17:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Housing significant collections of eighteenth-century art, interiors, social history and music, the Foundling Museum reveals the stories of the Foundling Hospital, London's first home for abandoned children, and three major figures in British history: founder Thomas Coram, the artist William Hogarth and composer George Frideric Handel. More info
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Foundling Voices
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-17:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Foundling Voices is a major exhibition which tells the stories of the last children brought up in the care of the Foundling Hospital. Through audio interviews, photographs and film hear stories that range from family separation, the stigma of illegitimacy, wartime heroism and the search for birth mothers. More info
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Friend and Company Architects
Sat 22 Oct 14:00-17:00
Drop into Friend and Company Architects' open studio in the impressive brunswick Centre and enjoy artist Andrew Cross' beautiful exhibition of photos. Studio on level 2, dial Unit 167 at entrance 3 facing Marchmont Street for entry. More info
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Future Perfect Present: Cracked
Sun 23 Oct 14:00-15:00
“There is a crack in everything/That's how the light gets in” Future Perfect return with another nail biting and entertaining hour of novel excerpts, short stories, poems and songs presented by emerging London writers. More info
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Garden Squares of Bloomsbury
Sat 22 Oct 14:00-15:30
The Institute of Historical Research's garden and architectural historians lead you through a selection of Bloomsbury's leafy squares examining the work of Repton, Cubitt and others. Follow the wartime story and enjoy the impressive restoration of eighteenth century ideas. More info
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Get Cartooning
Sun 23 Oct 13:00-13:30, Sun 23 Oct 14:00-14:30, Sun 23 Oct 15:00-15:30
Suitable for Ages 6+ Have you always wanted to try your hand at cartooning but never had the chance? Come along and have a go with comic artist Steve Marchant in the Cartoon Museum's 30 minute workshops. For adults and children alike. More info
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Get to Dance In Large Numbers
Sun 23 Oct 10:00-12:00
A great opportunity to join adult and young dancers from across The Place's dance programmes as they, and you, learn the moves which will allow you to be part of the Festival's fantastic finalé dance, 'In Large Numbers', in Russell Square. Suitable for Everyone! More info
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Glint
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Elaine Duigenan's mirrored photographic works reflect on the patterns created in the small worlds that exist within our larger perspectives. More info
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Gothic Egypt
Sat 22 Oct 18:00-20:00
Pick up a trail and explore why Ancient Egypt appeals to the macabre and the morbid, and some of the myths and stories used in late nineteenth century and early twentieth century horror, at the wonderful Petrie Museum. More info
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Grant Museum of Zoology
Sat 22 Oct 11:00-16:00
Founded in 1828, The Grant Museum is the only remaining university zoology museum in London and houses around 67,000 soecimens. Discover these and the many skeletons, and mounted animals including the Tazmanian Tiger or Thylacine, the Quagga, and the Dodo. More info
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Hush Secret Sessions
Sat 22 Oct 18:00-23:45
Hosted and curated by Tom McKean and the Emperors, the Hush Secret Sessions are about as acoustic as you can get. Spellbinding songwriters and surprise headliners create a magical experience in an intimate, candle-lit setting. More info
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Imaginary Menagerie
Sat 22 Oct 11:00-19:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
19 designers plus an open brief to explore some of language's difficult, tongue-tripping, unpronounceable labyrinths typographically and in their own language. Drawing from Italian, Spanish, English, Russian and Chinese, these works take on a variety of forms: from letterpress and silkscreen prints, to light-based artworks and sculpture. More info
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In Large Numbers
Sun 23 Oct 17:00-17:15
Over fifty dancers from The Place, and members of the public, bring the festival's activity in Russell Square to a spectacular conclusion, with live musical accompaniment. More info
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In Sickness and in Health
Sun 23 Oct 11:00-13:00
Join Richard Barnett, author of Medical London on a walk which uncovers Bloomsbury's dark past. Once desperately poor and crammed with slums; it has also been a crucible of medical reform, and the setting for triumphs and tragedies in the lives of London’s plain folk. More info
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Jessica Zhu's 'Inspire' concert
Sun 23 Oct 15:00-16:00
Jessica Zhu, a rising star of classical piano, gives her Wigmore Hall debut in 2012. Hear her playing music which inspires her: Haydn's Sonata in E-flat Major, Liszt's From the Years of Pilgrimage and de Falla's Fantasia Baetica. A unique opportunity to hear inspiring music in this intimate setting. More info
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Jozef van Wissem: a Performance in Swedenborg Hall
Sat 22 Oct 19:00-20:00
Influenced by the writing of Emanuel Swedenborg, contemporary lute maestro Josef van Wissem will perform a sublime collection of compositions in the stunning grade II listed Swedenborg Hall. More info
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King Tut rises from the UCL TV Archive!
Sat 22 Oct 15:00-17:15
Linking with the Petrie Museum of Egyptology, UCL's Open City Documentary Festival shows the first two episodes from Timewatch's classic (1993) documentary series about the life of Howard Carter, his discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun, its cultural impact on the world and the legendary curse that was supposed to have affected the tomb's finders. With UCL led Q&A after the films. More info
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Lambs Conduit Street Sunday Lunch
Sun 23 Oct 13:00-19:00
On Sunday afternoon, Lambs Conduit Street and the People's Supermarket host and extended Sunday Lunch, with a variety of exciting events and entertainment running the length of the street; expect great food, and a wonderful community vibe for all the family to enjoy. More info
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Landscape in a Box
Sat 22 Oct 11:00-12:00, Sat 22 Oct 14:00-15:00, Sat 22 Oct 16:00-17:00
Suitable for Ages 8-11 Based on the exhibition "Outside In" Jo Oakley tutors three exciting art workshops, inviting you to get creative, get painting and construct your own imaginative 3D landscape to take home with you. More info
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Lantern Parade
Fri 21 Oct 18:00-20:00
Come and see the parade of beautiful lanterns and illuminated decorations in Russell Square and you might just learn a thing or two about Bloomsbury that you didn't know before! Celebrating the lesser known history of this incredible area, Artist Emily Tracy has designed illuminated structures and lanterns to shed some light Bloomsbury's colourful past! In the weeks leading up to the festival, she will also work with local children to design and make lanterns for the parade which will be accompanied by the fantastic sounds of Samba Reggaeband, Batala London - you won't be able to resist moving to the beat! More info
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Letter Lounge
Sat 22 Oct 14:00-17:00
Everyone loves finding a handwritten letter from an old friend on their doormat. This lovely drop in workshop at the October Gallery invites you to write the letters you never have time for. We will provide the stamps and even vintage style post boxes for posting. The best way to get one is to send one! More info
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Lower Carbon Drive Talk
Sat 22 Oct 12:00-13:00, Sun 23 Oct 12:00-13:00
Develop your knowledge on the ongoing debate about the built environment with Andrew Scoones, Director at The Building Centre with this fascinating talk about Lower Carbon Drive and the refurbishing of existing homes to lower their carbon footprint. More info
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Madeleine Waller
Sat 22 Oct 18:00-21:00
Join the critically acclaimed Madeleine Waller, at Swedenborg House for the launch of her beautiful and provocative exhibition, and the launch of the special publication associated with her residency. More info
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Magic at Treadwell's
Sat 22 Oct 13:00-13:30, Sat 22 Oct 15:00-15:30, Sat 22 Oct 16:00-16:30, Sun 23 Oct 13:00-13:30, Sun 23 Oct 15:00-15:30, Sun 23 Oct 16:00-16:30
Treadwell's eclectic and esoteric bookshop and magical apothecary's local white witch will be offering incense burning and bewitching candle magic demonstrations. More info
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Mathemagicians
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00
Marcus’s Marvellous Mathemagicians - or M³ - aim simply to show that maths can not only be useful, but most importantly fun! Supported by the London Mathematical Society. More info
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Messages and Lives
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi's famous proclamation, 'My life is my message', this installation by local design studio Practice + Theory explores the power of words and their relationship to lives, famous and otherwise, lived near and about Tavistock Square. More info
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Mind The Gap
Sat 22 Oct 14:00-15:45
Y Touring Theatre Company, in partnership with Royal Albert Hall Learning and Participation, invites you to its highly acclaimed Theatre of Debate® production, Mind the Gap, looking at the debate around ethical questions posed by advances in neuroscience and brain research. The film will be followed by a Q&A session with two leading neuroscientists. More info
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Mini Brew Bar
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Store Street Espresso's mini brew bar invites you to learn about exquisite coffee making, taste unusual origin filter coffees and learn how to use equipment such as French press, wood necks, siphons and aero presses. More info
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Miracles and Charms
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-18:00
Miracles and charms draws lines between faith, morality and healing through two shows: Infinitas Gracias; Mexican miracle paintings, and Felicity Powell: Charmed life. More info
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Monuments
Sat 22 Oct 11:00-17:00, Sun 23 Oct 12:00-16:00
A major exhibition by Bloomsbury artist, Terry Duffy, whose large scale works explore colour, texture, and materials in this stunning underground gallery space. More info
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Mountains & Water
Sat 22 Oct 10:30-17:00
The Brunei Gallery hosts this inspiring exhibition of landscape paintings and large scale installation works by XU Longsen, one of Chinas most creative landscape artists. More info
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Museum Mile Walk
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-12:30, Sat 22 Oct 14:00-16:30, Sun 23 Oct 10:00-12:30, Sun 23 Oct 14:00-16:30
Each of these fascinating walks visits three of the extraordinary museums in the Museum Mile. Sign up from half an hour before the start of the walk with your orange uniformed guide by the Guided Walks tent in Russell Square. Places allocated on a first come first served basis. More info
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Music and Street Dance Sessions
Sat 22 Oct 12:00-16:00, Sun 23 Oct 12:00-16:00
Free Music and Street Dance Sessions for young people aged 13-19 at the Coram's Fields Youth Centre. Just drop in between the hours advertised to jam, sing, write and dance. More info
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My Life on Earth 1991-2002
Sat 22 Oct 12:00-18:00
The Horse Hospital is the only existing unspoilt example of a two-floor, purpose-built stable for which there is public access in London. Now a progressive arts venue providing an encompassing umbrella for the related media of art, film, fashion, literature and music. Visit to see the work of Ronny Long is a self-taught artist whose obsessions with horror, wrestling and Bigfoot have fuelled his extraordinary work. More info
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Mythological Heroes and Monsters
Sat 22 Oct 13:30-14:30
Suitable for Ages 6+ Create your own mythological monster story with Sally Kindberg, and find out how she makes her amazing comic strip books! Followed by a signing of Sally's The Comic Strip Big Fat Book of Knowledge. More info
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N'krypt'd on Film
Sat 22 Oct 17:30-18:00
This short film by Coram Media follows local street dance group N'krypt'd as they hone a performance at the London Transport Museum. More info
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Nakshi Pati Art Workshop for Adults
Sat 22 Oct 12:00-16:00
Come along and learn some mixed media creative techniques such as metal embossing, layering and embellishment to create your own art piece inspired by a "Nakshi Pati" on display. More info
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Navigating In The Dark
Sun 23 Oct 10:00-19:00, Sat 22 Oct 10:00-19:00
Delve into the underground burial space of the St Pancras Crypt, to explore London-based artist Kalliopi Lemos' themes of spiritual and physical migration and her exploration of the passage through life in three chapters. More info
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October Gallery
Sat 22 Oct 12:30-17:30
The October Gallery promotes the very best in contemporary art from all cultures around the world and is a cultural hub in central London for poets, writers, intellectuals and artists. Stop for a break in the secret courtyard. More info
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Outside In
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Inspired by nature, Store Street Gallery’s new exhibition ‘Outside In’ takes a fresh look at the theme of Landscape. Sublime vistas, natural wildernesses and untamed forests reveal a range of responses to the great outdoors. 'Landscape in a Box' Saturday art classes with artist Jo Oakley. 3 classes for children aged 8-11years, involving painting and construction of a 3D landscape to take-away. More info
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Owusu-Ankomah: Microcron - Kusum (Secret Signs - Hidden Meanings)
Sat 22 Oct 12:30-17:30
Owusu-Ankomah's bold paintings depict an alternate world where monumental human figures - his core motif- move within and ocean of visual signs, influenced by traditional Ghanaian adinkra symbols. Drop in to see the show and be inspired to create art works for our Russell Square installation. More info
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Pan Intercultural Arts at One KX
Sat 22 Oct 14:00-16:00
A showcase of Pan Intercultural Arts' current arts for social change projects. 'Weapon of Choice', 'It Ain't Working', 'You Me and the Universe' and 'Taste of Memory', in partnership with One KX. In these performances, young people explore issues which effect them, from gun and knife crime to food, through to theatre, music, dance, poetry, stories and songs. More info
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Parviz Tanavoli: A Poet in Love
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Iran's frist significant modern sculptor Parviz Tanavoli presents a joyful and passionate exhibition of over 35 pieces, including ceramics, fibreglass and bronze sculptures, paired with contemporary drawings. More info
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Pedal Powered Postman from the Past
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-16:00
Suitable for All Ages The British Postal Museum & Archive bring Britain's postal history to life in the form of a vintage postman's parcel tricycle. What's inside will vary throughout the day, from crafty keepsakes to quick quizzes. You might even meet a postie from the past! More info
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Petrie Museum
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-17:00, Sun 23 Oct 13:00-17:00
The Petrie Museum, with over 80,000 objects from Egypt and Sudanese artefacts which tell the story of the Nile Valley from pre-dynastic Egypt to the time to the pharaohs and pyramids and the mergence of Islam. More info
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Philosophy of Taste Tutored Wine Tasting
Sat 22 Oct 19:15-21:00
Led by Professor Barry Smith, Institute of Philosophy, in association with Planet of the Grapes.When you open a good bottle of wine, your senses are aroused: from the sound of the cork to the heavenly aromas, the silky texture in the mouth to the lingering taste on the tongue. Glass in hand, we ask whether we can know the real taste of a wine and whether we can ever share that experience with others. Led by Professor Barry Smith, Institute of Philosophy, in association with Planet of the Grapes. More info
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Playing with a Shadow
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-17:00, Sun 23 Oct 13:30-17:00
The extraordinary, award winning architecture of Lumen's beautiful interior plays host to this provocative exhibition, inviting you to explore childhood and memory through paintings, sculpture, and photography. More info
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Poets' Path: Poetry Under the Arbour
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Join Faber Academy and Urban Brew in Russell Square to build poems under the trees. Pick your words, talk it through with a tutor, then make the space speak. Let's fill the arbour with new poems. More info
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Pop-Up Art Strange Creatures
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-17:00
Suitable for Ages 6+ Take inspiration from the accounts and journeys of early travellers which feature in UCL Art Museum's Word and Image exhibition to create and draw your own magically real creatures. More info
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Pot Jigsaws
Sun 23 Oct 14:00-16:00
Suitable for Ages 6+ Explore real pots, put some back together and draw your own! Try your hand at reconstructing some broken pots and record their intricate designs. Draw your own designs based on Greek spirals and patterns, and then use them on your own pot. More info
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Real Bloomsbury
Sat 22 Oct 10:30-12:00
Local writer, Nicholas Murray, author of a new book, Real Bloomsbury, leads a highly personal walk through Bloomsbury past and present, recalling duck ponds, Dickens, disappeared Turkish Baths, poets, pubs, philosophers' skeletons, foundlings, giant plane trees, and possibly even Virginia Woolf. More info
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Rosemary Lee's Square Dances
Sat 22 Oct 13:00-13:15, Sat 22 Oct 15:00-15:15, Sat 22 Oct 17:00-17:15
Following its premiere in Dance Umbrella 2011, an extract of Work Place artist, Rosemary Lee’s Square Dances will be restaged especially for Bloomsbury Festival. The quietness and reverie of this square will be punctuated briefly by intense, intricate yet fleeting solos performed by students from London Contemporary Dance School to audience members seated on the benches. More info
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See The World Through Sound 2011
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Follow Miles Copeland's sound trail to discover wonderful corners of Bloomsbury through a unique series of sound pieces. Spot signs for the trail in windows around Bloomsbury, download or stream sounds from: www.wonderfulsound.com or visit the Listening Post in Russell Square where you can also pick up a map of the locations. More info
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Seven Lamps of Brunswick Square
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Parasite Ceramics' beautiful ceramic installation, high in the trees of Brunswick Square, draws inspiration from the significant changes that have happened throughout the history of the local area. More info
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Shaken and Heard
Sat 22 Oct 16:00-16:45, Sat 22 Oct 18:00-18:45
RADA (Royal Academy of Dramatic Art) invites you to join us in a curious new experience. Come to The New Bloomsbury Set and share in an immersive evening of theatre and cocktails. Be provoked, inspired and intrigued, as a cast of RADA students and graduates blend iconic characters, poetry, drama and literature in specially devised show, inspired by the dark and indulgent surroundings of this underground cocktail bar. More info
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SOAS World Music Stage
Sat 22 Oct 12:00-19:30, Sun 23 Oct 12:00-17:00
Come and enjoy our two-day programme packed with colourful and exciting music from around the world, selected by the world music specialists at the SOAS Music Department based next door to Russell Square. Come and listen to wonderful music from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Europe, featuring Laye Sow (Senegal), Ayarkhaan (Sakha/Siberia), Amira Kheir (Sudan), Shavnabada (Georgia), Rún (Celtic music), Harare (Zimbabwe) - and many more! More info
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Songs from the Heart
Sat 22 Oct 17:00-18:00
Especially for those with a passion for songs! This sparkling young trio perform songs from the heart...featuring Britten's folk songs; works by Vaughan WIlliams and Schubert, alongside Handel's popular arias. An hour of heart warming beautiful music from John Bacon (tenor), Anna Huntley (mezzo soprano), and Charlotte Forrest (piano). More info
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South Crescent
Sat 22 Oct 12:00-17:00, Sun 23 Oct 12:00-17:00
The South Crescent, outside The Building Centre, will be a hive of creative activity, with family-friendly workshops, talks and tours on Bloomsbury's architecture and sustainable homes throughout the afternoons, food and drink from local eateries, while shops and galleries all along the street will be hosting various events. More info
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Spring Bulb Planting
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-16:00
The Marchmont Community Garden Partnership invites everyone to help plant spring bulbs in this recently opened, beautiful, community-owned garden, which is open to the public every day of the year. More info
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Storytelling at The House of Tall Tales and Small Stories
Sat 22 Oct 11:00-11:30, Sat 22 Oct 13:00-13:30
Suitable for Ages 2+ Come and sit in the House of Tall Tales and Small Stories, and enjoy a little bit of storytelling magic, guaranteed to delight young and old alike! It might be a story that’s new to your ears, or one you’ve heard many times over, but there is no doubt that you will be captivated by Kathryn Holt's playful and engaging style of storytelling as she brings folk tales to life with props and interactivity, taking your imagination on a fantastic journey. Please note; All children visiting the House of Tall Tales and Small Stories must be accompanied by an adult. Coram's Fields is not a public park and adults are only permitted to enter the park if attending with a child. More info
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Stress and Food
Sat 22 Oct 16:00-17:00
Passionate about creating organic, healthy and not least, tasty food, expert nutritionist Emma Finn gives a fascinating talk on how health foods can reduce your stress levels. More info
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Sunday Afternoon Concert
Sun 23 Oct 15:00-16:00
Enjoy afternoon concert in the Foundling Museum’s beautiful Picture Gallery with critically acclaimed Veronika Eberle and Shai Wosner as they perform Debussy's Sonata for violin and piano, and Bartok's Sonata No.1 for violin and piano. More info
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Tea At Three with Bloomsbury Voices
Sat 22 Oct 15:00-16:00
Poetry and music with Bloomsbury voices served up with tea and cake in the lovely October Gallery. Subjects range from Bloomsbury itself to love, lust, nature and quantum physics. The Voices are witty, very human and occasionally profound. Poetry by Stephanie Gerra and Wendy Shutler music by Catherine Paver. More info
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tea...
Sat 22 Oct 11:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
tea... is a performance installation created by See-Saw performance group which explores the art of 'taking tea'. Whether a celebration, a comfort or just part of your daily routine, the phrase “I’ll stick the kettle on” has become a part of our lives. Look out for tea bag invitations as this 'behind closed doors' routine is being bared for public consumption... More info
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Teddy Time Traveller
Sat 22 Oct 11:30-15:30
Suitable for Ages 5+ Learn about Alan Measles, contemporary artist Grayson Perry’s teddy bear and god of his imaginary world. Bring along your own bear or soft animal (or borrow one of ours), then transport yourselves to another culture and time using a green screen and get your bear to write a short blog about your travels to share online. More info
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Terry Duffy Open Studio
Sat 22 Oct 12:00-16:00, Sun 23 Oct 12:00-16:00
Terry Duffy opens his Bloomsbury studio to the public, to coincide with his exhibition, Monuments, which can be seen at The Brunswick Gallery. More info
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That Good Night
Sun 23 Oct 19:00-22:00
The Dan Korn duo host and perform at this special folksy feast of a Sunday evening at The harrison with up-and-comming songwriters and musicians Young Romance and Pepe Belmonte. A harmonious conclusion to the weekend's festivities. More info
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The Bloomsbury Flâneur: Reading the Streets of WC1
Sat 22 Oct 16:30-17:30
The Institute of English Studies invites you to join Rosemary Ashton, Gillian Darley and Nicholas Murray in conversation in Senate House. A wide ranging discussion exploring the streets and squares of Bloomsbury, its cultural heritage, present-day life and possible future. More info
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The Bloomsbury Group Revisited
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Taking inspiration from the work of the Bloomsbury Group and the Omega Workshop almost 100 years ago, this project showcases work produced by patients during art workshops in various hospital settings. More info
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The Building Centre
Sun 23 Oct 10:00-16:00, Sat 22 Oct 10:00-17:00
The Building Centre provides information and inspiration to all sectors of the built environment; their Exhibition Galleries offer interesting and topical, architectural and design exhibitions. More info
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The Building of Bloomsbury
Sat 22 Oct 14:00-15:30
Join Rosemary Ashton on a guided walk as she takes you on a fascinating historic journey from the beauty of Russell Square, exploring the role Bloomsbury played in the reform of education and culture in 19th Century London. More info
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The Choir with No Name
Sun 23 Oct 14:15-14:45
The Choir with No Name is a choir made up of people who have experienced homelessness. A joy to watch and sing along with, join them for singalong fun and frolics in their specially designed new setting in Russell Square... More info
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The Den
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Help build The Den! This wonderful evolving patchwork structure uses a Russell Square tree as a base and will evolve over the Festival weekend into a performance space for The Choir With No Name. Designed by Gina Rose Lee and Harriet Wilcox and supported by John Lewis Oxford Street. More info
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The Ghosts of Senate House
Sat 22 Oct 14:30-16:00
Join London ghost and folklore expert Scott Wood on a walking tour visiting sites of alleged hauntings and other phenomena in and around the locale of Senate House. The tour is part of Sarah Sparkes’ Magical Library Project and includes stories collected by Chris Josiffe, Sarah Sparkes and Scott Wood. More info
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The Ghosts of Senate House – Artists Talk
Sun 23 Oct 11:00-12:00
Visit the historical Crush Hall in Senate House for a discussion about Sarah Sparkes’ Magical Library artwork. Artists who contributed to the project (Magick Concrète, Output Arts and Peter Suchin) will discuss how they have responded to the idea of ‘The Ghosts of Senate House’. More info
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The Heart of Bloomsbury
Sat 22 Oct 16:30-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 12:00-13:30
Where and what is Bloomsbury? Who was Goodenough? And what is the story of the Foundling Museum? Join us on a fascinating hour and a half long walk through the heart of Bloomsbury... More info
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The Hollow
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Like the garden square in which it sits, Ridley Buchanan Architects' installation The Hollow offers respite from the city. Its diaphanous enclosure creates a space of escape, for reflection and contemplation. Lying on your back you see the park in a different light. More info
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The House of Tall Tales and Small Stories
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-17:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Suitable for Ages 2+ Step inside this curious little house and you will enter a magical world of words and pictures, where stories without endings are waiting to meet you - just be sure to bring your imagination! The House of Tall Tales and Small Stories is an interactive installation for children and their grown-ups. More info
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The Ideas Market
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
The Architectural Association take over Bedford Square with a series of physical installations, or 'market stalls', which draw on critical thinking which emerged from Bloomsbury in the second half of the 20th Century. A programme of discussions relating to the installations will be running within the AA Building throughout. More info
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The Institute of Historical Research – 90 years on
Sat 22 Oct 11:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
As a celebration of the Institute of Historical Research's 90th birthday, this compelling exhibition presents the Institute’s own history through a series of photographs and newspaper articles from its birth in 1921 to the present. More info
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The Literary Cabaret: How to be a Bohemian
Sat 22 Oct 20:00-22:00
Helen Smith hosts a fabulously entertaining evening of literature and music from award-winning authors and Radio 4 regulars Sam Leith, Karen McLeod, Ian Marchant and Nat Segnit, and talented musicians The Bloomsbury Bangers, in the spectacular surroundings of St Pancras Renaissance Hotel. More info
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The Lives and Arts of the Bloomsbury Painters
Sun 23 Oct 11:30-12:30
In this talk, NADFAS lecturer Sandra Pollard investigates the complicated, fascinating and interrelated lives of the Bloomsbury Group and the significant impact they had on the cultural life of England in the first half of the 20th Century. More info
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The Magical Library Presents – The Ghosts of Senate House
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
In response to the Harry Price Library of Magical Literature, Sarah Sparkes has created an interactive, multi-media artwork, archiving ‘ghost’ stories from Senate House. Listen to aural histories and browse specially commissioned publications and audio works at this ‘Magical Library’. More info
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The Slade: Installations and Happenings
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Visit Gordon Square to explore a collection of highly imaginative artistic interventions conceived by postgraduate students from the Slade, including music performances, 'sonic' trees, artificial landscapes juxtaposed against the natural landscape, and experiential structures. More info
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The Squares of Bloomsbury
Sat 22 Oct 12:00-13:30, Sun 23 Oct 14:30-16:00
PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS WALK HAS BEEN CANCELLED DUE TO ILLNESS What is the history of the gardens at the centre of the squares of Bloomsbury? Whose statues can you find? What outstanding vegetation grows in the gardens? Join us for a fascinating hour and a half walk through Bloomsbury. More info
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The Thing Is...
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Inside a very special box there’s a very special object just waiting for you to come in and have a closer look. Enter our fantastical mirrored crate and practise the art of conversation with us as we explore what the thing is. More info
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Threads and Yarns: hands-on crafting!
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
This spectacular flower-based textiles installation was made earlier this year by senior citizens from Bloomsbury and Kings Cross and students from Central St. Martins; join us to enjoy their work, and to learn the techniques that they used to make your own amazing creations. Supported by Wellcome Trust. More info
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Tour of the Tombs
Sat 22 Oct 12:00-13:00
Enjoy a history of St. George's Gardens laced with tales of bodysnatching, poisonings, Jacobite executions, and other grisly bits of local social history. More info
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Tree of Faith
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
Join the British Museum and October Gallery to consider the question: What do you have faith in? Contribute to a colourful artwork that will provide a site for thoughtful accumulation and display of diverse views and opinions as it grows throughout the course of the weekend. More info
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Twentysix by Jonathan Kemp
Sun 23 Oct 19:00-23:00
Johnathan Kemp launches his extraordinary new book 'Twenty-six followed by a DJ set by the author and guests. This highly charged work from the author of the award-winning London Triptych is a powerful meditation on the pursuit of pleasure. Hosted by Gay's the Word. In the tradition of Georges Bataille, Kathy Acker and Jean Genet, Twentysix is a new erotic classic; audacious, sometimes shocking, and completely unforgettable. Reading followed by DJ set by the author and guests. More info
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Vegan Night
Sat 22 Oct 18:00-20:00
Feast your eyes on this tantalising vegan cooking demonstration by Viridian's expert chef Dale and learn how to make deliciously healthy vegan dishes from locally sourced ingredients. More info
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Weaving The Threads Of Livelihood
Sat 22 Oct 10:30-17:00
An exhibition dedicated to contemporary Moroccan textile production, focussing on the akhnif cloak and unpicking the dynamism and creativity of Berber Sirwa weavers' rich weaving tradition. More info
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Wellcome Charm Tree
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-17:00
This growing, glittering art installation curated by Elaine Duigenan in conjunction with young people from Bloomsbury, draws inspiration from Wellcome Collection's ‘Miracles & Charms’ Autumn exhibition. Find The Wellcome Charm Tree in Russell Square and make a personal offering to hang on it. More info
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Wellcome Collection
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-18:00, Sun 23 Oct 11:00-18:00
Wellcome Collection is a free destination for the incurably curious that explores the connections between medicine, life and art. Explore the permanent galleries, Medicine Now and Medicine Man, or visit the current exhibition, Miracles and Charms. More info
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Word and Image
Sat 22 Oct 10:00-17:00, Sun 23 Oct 10:00-17:00
Featuring highlights from UCL’s art and rare book collections, Word and Image delves into themes such as travel, translation and the traffic of objects and ideas. More info
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World Music Documentary Double-Bill
Sat 22 Oct 12:30-14:30
UCL and Open City London Documentary Festival present a World Music Documentary Double-Bill featuring two fascinating portraits of two unique musical cultures from opposite hemispheres of the globe. Cigarettes and Songs, from the Slovak Republic, and Creole Cousins - a portrait of Lindigo in Brazil. More info
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Youth Film Programme
Sat 22 Oct 16:00-17:00
Two fantastic short films, written, performed and produced by local young people from 1A Arts etc. and shot at the Charles Dickens Museum and the London Transport Museum. 'Left for the Streets' is a film inspired by Charles Dickens characters, stories and 18th Century London, and 'Generation Change' follows Patrick on a mysterious journey he will never forget... More info