Young musicians and performers from Wandsworth schools and the Wandsworth Music Academy marked the start of London Borough of Culture this week during a spectacular event at the Royal Albert Hall.
Wandsworth’s year as London Borough of Culture officially has begun, marking the start of an exciting 12-month celebration of art, heritage, and community-led events across the borough.
The first day of the cultural programme was ushered in with a spectacular performance at the Royal Albert Hall last night. The Brighter Sounds schools’ concert featured the 1,000-strong Wandsworth Primary Choir, accompanied by the Wandsworth Philharmonic Orchestra, delivering a choral rendition of ‘Welcome to Wandsworth’.
The year-long celebration promises a diverse mix of major cultural spectacles, grassroots artistic initiatives, and wellbeing-focused events. The first major event, Strictly Wandsworth, will take place on 26 April. Hosted by Oti Mabuse and featuring a DJ set from Gok Wan, the event in Battersea Park will showcase an eclectic mix of dance styles, including Bollywood, Lindy-hop, line dancing, and breakdancing. Hundreds of performers will take to the stage, and the public will have the chance to participate in a mass dance finale. Free tickets for the event will be available from 9am tomorrow, with early access for those on the mailing list.
Other highlights of the year include Battersea Park in Concert, featuring performances by Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra, as well as the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. The Wandsworth Arts Fringe will bring an array of theatre, dance, music, cabaret, comedy, and community events to venues across the borough. The Wandsworth Heritage Festival will explore the area’s rich history, while Happy Streets will offer a free family arts festival in Battersea. Urban Flow will transform Roehampton into a living stage with dance, martial arts, and live soundscapes. The Liberty Festival will highlight the work of D/deaf, disabled, and neurodivergent artists. Wandsworth Artists’ Open House will allow visitors to explore artists’ homes and studios, while The Palace of Varieties will celebrate the Clapham Grand’s 125th anniversary.
The ambitious programme is led by Wandsworth Council in collaboration with local people and organisations. Titled ‘Welcome to Wandsworth,’ the year’s events will take place in every corner of the borough, celebrating its rich heritage and diverse communities with a pioneering focus on culture’s role in improving health and wellbeing. One of the more unique initiatives is a brand-new radio drama series, The Wandsworth Way, which will offer local people an opportunity to participate in storytelling, performance, and production. Similar in format to The Archers, the series will capture the everyday lives of Wandsworth residents.
Community events have already started, with art exhibitions taking place at Bloom Gallery and WIP Space, as well as a production at Battersea Arts Centre. A full list of events is available by searching for London Borough of Culture 2025 events.
Deputy Council Leader Kemi Akinola expressed enthusiasm for the year ahead, stating, “It’s here! We are beyond excited to be London Borough of Culture 2025, and we can’t wait to see everyone getting involved. Check out the website to see what’s on near you, or find out how you can be one of our volunteer Culture Heroes.”
Deputy Mayor for Culture and the Creative Industries, Justine Simons OBE, praised Wandsworth’s plans, saying, “A year of great culture is kicking off in Wandsworth as they take on the crown as the Mayor of London’s Borough of Culture. Culture can unleash the potential of the next generation and as part of the year, young Londoners will even get to perform at iconic venues like the Royal Albert Hall. Everyone is welcome, and creativity will spring from every corner of the borough, as we build a better London for all.”
