Featured Events in Kingston upon Thames in May, 2025 (August Updated)

The Surbiton Symphony Orchestra and Peter Le Tissier return for their first performance of 2025 pairing two works that, although their contrast could seemingly not be greater, both combine outpourings of overwhelming love with brilliant, evocative storytelling. Nestled in the Swiss alps, in the cottage outside Luzern the composer had built for himself, Richard Wagner was at the peak of his compositional output when he wrote the Siegfried-Idyll. Initially for chamber orchestra, and originally intended as a birthday present for his wife, Cosima, after the birth of their son Siegfried, the work is an astonishing portrait of the idyllic alpine lake where it was written, providing moments of charm and beauty alongside an astonishingly intimate expressivity. Mahler's trips to the Carinthian Alps of Austria every summer to write are similarly legendary. In the early 1900's the composer had just married his wife Alma and they, too, had had their first child when Mahler set to writing his new work, the 6th Symphony. A brilliant twist on the 19th century's romantic optimism, this is a work bristling with energy from start-to-finish, ranging from furious march rhythms, gorgeous alpine vistas and, ultimately, 'killed off' by the two - literal - hammer blows that strike the heroic figure down in the final movement. The opening movement portrays two themes set against each other - the first a purposeful, decisive march, the second an outpouring of overwhelming love for the composer's new wife. In a cinematic opening, the themes clash for supremacy before reaching a triumphant conclusion. Following this, a repose allows the listener to sink into a world that, albeit not untampered, offers an alpine idyll amongst an otherwise highly energetic Symphony. Cowbells and horn calls mix with beautiful lyricism, before being undercut by the grotesque dance of the third movement. The stage is set for a brilliant finale - questions are here left to be answered: will our 'heroic figure' triumph? Will the piece end in the idyllic love and rapture? Or is the weight of the coming century and its two hammer blows too much for the music to bear? To find out, join us at our home of St. Andrew's Church, Surbiton! Tickets are on sale NOW, with discounts for those under-30 and under-18. Information Source: Surbiton Symphony Orchestra | eventbrite

A fun packed day for all the family to enjoy some wonderful classic films -Canbury Gardens Bank Holiday Sunday May 4th, 2025 Doors open at 12 when food and beverages will be available and continue throughout the day. Or bring your own picnic. Please bring blankets, groundsheets and camping chairs to sit on. We kick off at 1.30pm with the 25th Anniversary screening of CHICKEN RUN – Parents will remember this fun-packed animated film from their younger days. Followed at 3.30pm by a double bill of classic silent films Charlie Chaplin’s SUNNYSIDE along with Buster Keaton’s ONE WEEK. Then 6.30pm everyone’s favourite musical GREASE with JOHN TRAVOLTA and OLIVIA NEWTON JOHN with the all-time great songs “You’re the One that I Want”, “Summer Nights” and “Greased Lightning” Come dressed for the occasion with Prizes for the best dressed couple and best dressed individual. Champagne and KIFF Festival Passes. Enjoy our range of food and drink vendors with amazing Indonesian Street Food from Luperia, Cocktails, mocktails, wines, beers and soft drinks from BouGee Bar, the perfect coffee from George at Argonaut and ice creamfrom Mr Whippy. Information Source: Kingston International Film Festival | eventbrite

In this workshop, participants will learn about Japanese painting and its techniques, and create their own A5 artwork inspired by Iwasaki Tsunemasa's Honzo Zufu (本草図譜), a vast chronicle of botany from 18th and 19th century Japan. Participants will be taught how to use Japanese brushes, ink and Gansai (Japanese Watercolour) paints on Washi paper, and how to mount their artwork onto a wooden panel at the end of the session. The workshop is suitable for all ability levels, ages 12+. All materials are provided. This workshop is hosted by CASS Art Kingston. Workshop schedule: Introduction to Japanese painting and sketching artwork 'Kotsugaki' Drawing line work with Ink and Menso brushes Painting with Gansai Paints Mounting Washi Paper onto wood panel For private events, parties, and enquiries, please contact Vanessa via email at twotreeforestartstudio@gmail.com . Information Source: Two Tree Forest Art Studio | eventbrite

Information Source: Full Blast Bookings and Raise The Bar | eventbrite

Join us for an evening with Rebecca Offredi for her talk - Bound; an embroiderer’s story. "Rebecca Offredi is a multi award winning, Embroidery Artist and designer. Working within the disciplines of Fashion, Interiors, and Textile Art, she creates bespoke, couture, embroidered collections. Having started her working life as a Private Banker, Rebecca left her career in 2018 to pursue her passion for embroidery full time. Retraining at the Royal School of Needlework she graduated in 2021 with a first class degree in Hand Embroidery and a multidisciplinary approach to her practice" (Crafts Council Website). https://www.craftscouncil.org.uk/directory/rebecca-offredi-hand-embroidery @Rebecca.Offredi.handembroidery @Boundembroidery All photographs copyright ©️ Rebecca Offredi , please do not use or share without permission from the artist. This in-person event will be held on Fri 23rd May 2025 at 19:15 pm, St Mark’s Church Hall, Surbiton. Join us for an evening of stories, inspiration, and a celebration of the artistry that goes into making textiles. Book your ticket now via our Eventbrite - link in Bio. Kingston Stitchers members do not need a ticket and this talk is available free through your membership. Not a member of Kingston Stitchers but interested in joining? Please email our membership secretary for more details: ksmembershipsecretary@gmail.com . https://www.kingstonstitchers.com/ @kstitchers_uk Information Source: Kingston Stitchers | eventbrite

Join us this May Half-Term for a hands-on, family pizza making experience at Fuego Bracknell, Newcastle and Kingston. Enjoy a leisurely brunch while your little ones learn the art of pizza making with our Fuego chefs before whipping up their own masterpiece from fresh ingredients. Each adult ticket includes: Mimosa on arrival Choice of: Shakshuka (V) Scrambled egg with smoked Salmon & toasted focaccia Scrambled egg with prosciutto & toasted focaccia Crushed avocado, chilli on toasted focaccia with poached eggs (V) Each little pizza maker, will be provided with their own workstation and all the ingredients needed to craft their perfect pizza under the guidance of our experts. Adults can enjoy a glass of house wine, draught beer, or soft drink, while children are treated to their choice of cordial. It's the perfect Half-Term activity for the whole family. Available Sessions Newcastle, Bracknell and Kingston: Monday 26th May at 10am Tuesday 27th May at 10am Wednesday 28th May at 10am Book Bracknell Book Kingston Book Newcastle * Adults MUST purchase a ticket and participate in the activity Please inform us of any dietary requirements when booking. Unfortunately due to the nature of the activity, it is unsuitable for people following a wheat free diet. Information Source: Fenwick | eventbrite

Experience the magic of live music this Half Term with Bach to Baby —the acclaimed concert series for the whole family! Enjoy outstanding musicians, exhilarating performances, and a variety of genres, instruments and styles, all in inspiring venues on your doorstep. Check our website for the latest programme info for your particular concert. Sign up for updates on upcoming concerts in your area. http://www.bachtobaby.com/eupdates Information Source: Bach to Baby | eventbrite

Welcome to the Molton Brown Kingston Special Shopping evening ! Join us at our store in Kingston for an evening filled with exclusive offers and pampering treats. Indulge in our luxurious range of bath and body products, fragrances, and gifts. Discover unique scents and find the perfect products to treat yourself or spoil someone special. Don't miss out on this opportunity to stock up on your favorites or try something new. Our team will be on hand to offer personalized recommendations and make your shopping experience unforgettable. Come join us for an evening of relaxation, shopping, and indulgence at Molton Brown Kingston ! Book onto this event to receive a complimentary glass of prosecco. . Check out our website for full event T&C's Information Source: eventbrite

Welcome to the Exclusive Shopping Evening at Molton Brown Kingston! Join us for a night of luxury shopping and pampering. Explore our latest collections and enjoy special discounts available during this event. Indulge in complimentary refreshments and personalized shopping assistance from our expert staff. Don't miss this opportunity to treat yourself to something special! See you there! Information Source: Molton Brown | eventbrite

Welcome to the KSA BA Fashion Grad Show 2025 A student-led event, organised and fundraised by this year's graduates themselves. Join us in celebrating the culmination of their degree work! The day will be split into three separate shows: Show 1: 12pm-1pm Show 2: 3pm-4pm Show 3: 6pm-7pm Please plan to arrive 30 minutes before the respective showtime to get settled. After each show, we invite you to stay around for a reception and exhibition showcasing a curated selection of pieces from every graduate's final collection. Thank you for celebrating our work with us. See you there! Information Source: eventbrite