14 London Exhibitions & Theatre Shows To Book Now

The UK’s longest-running annual art show has returned, showcasing over 1,700 works from established names and emerging talents – many of which are available to buy, with prices starting from just £50. Curated by architect Farshid Moussavi, this year’s exhibition explores the theme of ‘Dialogues’, blending paintings, photography, sculpture and architectural pieces in unexpected ways. Highlights include Ryan Gander’s playful inflatable installation, new works by Tracey Emin, and striking sculptural pieces suspended throughout the galleries.

Until 17th August

Visit ROYALACADEMY.ORG.UK 

Rachel Jones brings her bold, expressive paintings to Dulwich Picture Gallery in a landmark solo exhibition. Known for her striking use of colour and abstract motifs, Jones explores themes of identity and emotion through large-scale oil pastel works. Inspired by Pieter Boel’s 17th-century painting ‘Head of a Hound’, her new series plays with exaggerated forms and vibrant hues, creating immersive, sensory landscapes.

Until 19th October 

Visit DULWICHPICTUREGALLERY.ORG.UK 

The Hayward Gallery hosts the first UK solo exhibition of Japanese artist Yoshitomo Nara, known for his striking portraits of wide-eyed, rebellious figures. Spanning four decades, this major retrospective showcases paintings, sculptures and drawings that explore themes of isolation, resistance and nostalgia. Expect richly layered colours, personal works and a glimpse into the influences that shaped Nara’s distinctive style. 

Until 31st August

Visit SOUTHBANKCENTRE.CO.UK

Jenny Saville is one of Britain’s most influential contemporary painters and this soon-to-open exhibition at National Portrait Gallery will feature 50 works spanning three decades. It will showcase her bold, visceral portraits that challenge traditional notions of beauty and identity, so expect large-scale nudes, expressive charcoal drawings and newer pieces that blur the lines between physical and digital imagery. 

20th June-7th September

Visit NPG.ORG.UK

Marking the 150th anniversary of Jean-François Millet’s death, this exhibition explores the French artist’s depictions of rural life. From The Sower to L’Angelus, Millet’s paintings capture the dignity and quiet resilience of 19th-century farm workers. Admired by Van Gogh and the Impressionists, his work blends realism with poetic light and tone, offering a reflection on labour and landscape.

7th August-19th October 

Visit NATIONALGALLERY.ORG.UK

The Blitz club was the iconic Covent Garden hotspot that shaped 80s style and music. This major exhibition at the Design Museum brings together over 250 rare objects – fashion, music, and art – from the club’s most influential creatives, including Spandau Ballet, Boy George and Visage. Objects on display include dazzling clubwear and unseen memorabilia from the Blitz Kids who revolutionised style and sound in 80s London. A must-see for lovers of fashion, music and London’s subcultural history.

20th September-29th March 2026

Visit DESIGNMUSEUM.ORG

Emily Kam Kngwarray is one of Australia’s most celebrated artists. A senior Australian aboriginal woman, Kngwarray’s work translates her deep connection to her country into vibrant textiles and large-scale paintings. This landmark show, created in collaboration with the National Gallery of Australia, brings together over 70 works spanning her extraordinary career, many of which have never been seen outside Australia.

10th July-11th January 2026 

Visit TATE.ORG.UK

The UK’s first major retrospective of Gianni Versace lands at Arches London Bridge this summer, showcasing over 450 original archival fashion pieces – including iconic looks worn by Princess Diana, Naomi Campbell and Elton John. Spanning 21 collections from 1988 to 1997, the exhibition celebrates the designer’s bold vision, from baroque prints to bondage-inspired silhouettes, alongside sketches, runway footage and personal artefacts. A fabulous tribute to a fashion revolutionary.

16th July-1st March

Visit ARCHESLONDONBRIDGE.CO.UK

Malorie Blackman’s bestselling novel returns to the stage in Dominic Cooke’s adaptation, directed by Tinuke Craig. Set in a deeply divided society, childhood friends Callum and Sephy fight to stay together as prejudice and fear threaten to tear them apart. Starring Corinna Brown and Noah Valentine, this powerful love story will unfold on Regent’s Park open-air stage.

28th June-26th July

Visit OPENAIRTHEATRE.COM

Disney’s Hercules storms into the West End in a new musical adaptation, featuring music by Alan Menken and lyrics by David Zippel. Directed by Casey Nicholaw, this high-energy production reimagines the 1997 animated classic with fresh choreography and witty dialogue, and spectacular visuals. Luke Brady leads the cast as the demigod hero, alongside Mae Ann Jorolan as Meg and Stephen Carlile as Hades.

Until 28th March

Visit HERCULESTHEMUSICAL.CO.UK

The most Tony Award-nominated play of all time, Stereophonic delves into the dynamics of a 1970s up-and-coming rock band as they record a new album and find themselves on the cusp of superstardom. The play captures the agony and the ecstasy of creation as it zooms in on the music studio in 1976. Will the pressures or impending fame spark their breakup or breakthrough? If you love Fleetwood Mac and Daisy Jones & The Six, this is the musical for you.

Until 20th September

Visit STEREOPHONICPLAY.COM

Beth Steel’s Olivier-nominated family drama moves to the West End after a sold-out run at the National Theatre. Set during a wedding in a former mining town, the play captures the tensions, laughter and raw emotions of a family navigating change. Directed by Bijan Sheibani, it’s a powerful mix of comedy and heartbreak, with a stellar cast bringing Steel’s richly drawn characters to life.

1st July-27th September

Visit NATIONALTHEATRE.ORG.UK 

Rosamund Pike makes her National Theatre debut in Suzie Miller’s latest play, a gripping exploration of modern motherhood and masculinity. Jessica Parks, a brilliant Crown Court judge, is used to balancing high-stakes cases with family life – until an unexpected event threatens to upend everything. Directed by Justin Martin, this drama follows the team behind Prima Facie in another unmissable production.

10th July-13th September

Visit NATIONALTHEATRE.ORG.UK

Alice Birch’s long-awaited new play is an exploration of masculinity from the 19th century to the present day. Starring Kyle Soller and directed by Sam Pritchard, Romans dissects the narratives that shape power, identity and history. Expect Birch’s signature sharp, poetic dialogue as the play unravels how male perspectives have influenced the world we live in.

9th September-11th October

Visit ALMEIDA.CO.UK

Simon Stone reimagines Ibsen’s psychological drama in a contemporary adaptation starring Alicia Vikander and Andrew Lincoln. Ellida, trapped in a quiet coastal life, is forced to confront her past when an old lover resurfaces, challenging everything she thought she wanted. Will she stay in her comfortable but predictable marriage or venture into murkier waters. 

10th September-8th November

Visit BRIDGETHEATRE.CO.UK