Exhibition highlights
Barbie®: The Exhibition, Design Museum, London
5 July 2024 to 23 February 2025
Barbie turned 65 in 2024! To celebrate, the Design Museum explores the evolution of the world’s most famous doll over the years in Barbie®: The Exhibition. The exhibition highlights Barbie’s cultural impact, from her origins in 1959 to her influence on fashion, design and gender representation across more than six decades. Featuring rare dolls, designer collaborations and behind-the-scenes insights, the exhibition offers a deep dive into the history and legacy of the iconic doll.
Everlyn Nicodemus, Modern One, National Galleries Scotland, Edinburgh
19 October 2024 – 25 May 2025
Look back on the last 40 years of artwork created by Everlyn Nicodemus, winner of the Freelands Award 2022, through paintings, collages and textiles at Edinburgh’s Modern One gallery. This retrospective showcases Nicodemus’ exploration of trauma, identity and cultural memory, focusing on her perspective as one of the most significant African diaspora artists of her generation. Her multifaceted body of work blends personal narrative with broader social and political themes.
Cartier, V&A South Kensington, London
12 April 2025 – 16 November 2025
Explore how the legendary House of Cartier came to be, and view more than 350 pieces of jewellery at this sparkling exhibition. Hosted at the V&A South Kensington, trace Cartier’s history, craftsmanship and its evolution into one of the world’s most prestigious jewellery brands. Marvel at iconic designs, from exquisite gemstones to elite watches, alongside insights into Cartier’s influence on fashion and royalty over the decades.
Design and Disability, V&A South Kensington, London
7 June 2025 – 15 February 2026
The Design and Disability exhibition at the V&A South Kensington explores the significant impact disabled people have had on the creative industries, from architecture to fashion. Spanning from the 1940s to today, the exhibition highlights the radical contributions made by disabled, Deaf, and neurodiverse individuals. Through a range of exhibits, visitors will gain insight into how these innovations have influenced design and helped foster a more inclusive and accessible society.
A Fragile Correspondence, V&A Dundee, Scotland
Opens 22nd November 2024
A Fragile Correspondence takes visitors on a journey across Scotland, exploring artistic responses to the nation’s diverse landscapes. From the shores of Loch Ness to the rugged Highlands, the diverse works in the exhibition at the V&A Dundee aim to offer fresh perspectives on the environments we live in. The exhibition, commissioned by Scotland and Venice, previously represented Scotland at the Venice Architectural Biennale in 2023.
Visions of Nature, Natural History Museum, London
Opening 24 October 2024
Visions of Nature offers a mixed reality experience that allows visitors to step into the future of our planet. Put on a headset and watch creatures come to life alongside real specimens from the museum’s collection. The experience provides a glimpse into how Earth might look in 100 years, while also highlighting how our actions today can shape the future of the planet’s ecosystems and biodiversity.
40 years of Scotland’s Photography Collection, Portrait, National Galleries of Scotland, Edinburgh
26 October 2024 – 16 March 2025
The National Galleries of Scotland celebrates thousands of boundary-pushing photographs gathered over the past four decades. The display showcases a mix of iconic portraits, featuring both famous contemporary faces and historic figures. Visitors can explore the evolution of photography in Scotland through this diverse collection in Edinburgh’s Portrait Gallery.
Andy Goldsworthy: Fifty Years, Royal Scottish Academy, Edinburgh, Scotland
26 July 2025 – 2 November 2025
See more than 200 works from legendary Scottish artist Andy Goldsworthy, globally recognised for his work with natural materials. Pieces on show include photographs, sculptures and new installations, in this major exhibition only showing at Edinburgh’s Royal Scottish Academy.
Emily Kam Kngwarray, Tate Modern, London
10 July 2025 – 13 January 2026
The Emily Kam Kngwarray exhibition at Tate Modern offers an opportunity to experience the monumental paintings of the renowned indigenous Australian artist. Known for her vibrant use of colour and intricate patterns, Kngwarray’s work reflects her deep connection to her ancestral land and culture. Her work has never been presented at this scale in Europe before.
Ithell Colquhoun: Between Worlds – Tate St Ives
1 February 2025 – 5 May 2025
Presenting a fusion of surrealist art and magical practice, Between Worlds is a pioneering exhibition featuring never-before-seen works from radical British artist Ithell Colquhoun. Deeply inspired by the landscapes and traditions of Cornwall, Colquhoun’s art explores themes of occultism, mysticism and the esoteric. Marking the first time so many of her works have appeared in one place, the exhibition will move to the Tate Britain in June after three months at the Tate St Ives.
The World of Tim Burton, Design Museum, London
25th October 2024 – 21st April 2025
Delve into the weird and wonderful universe of legendary director Tim Burton at the Design Museum. The collection features sculptures, drawings and installations from his personal archives, embodying the eerie themes of his cinematic creations. Providing a comprehensive overview of his artistic work, fans can explore the inspirations and processes behind his films.
Expressions in Blue: Monumental Porcelain by Felicity Aylieff, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, London
26 October 2024 – 23 March 2025
This exhibition in the lush setting of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, showcases five-metre-tall vases created by the world-renowned ceramic artist, Felicity Aylieff. Following her collaborations with porcelain craftspeople in Jingdezhen, China, Aylieff’s monumental ceramic creations blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary practice, exploring the beauty and versatility of the material.
Streic! 84-85 Strike!, National Museum Cardiff, Wales
26 October 2024 – 27 April 2025
Streic! 84-85 Strike! commemorates the 40th anniversary of the 1984 Miners’ Strike and its profound impact on communities across Wales. Housed in the National Museum in the heart of Cardiff, the exhibition features personal stories from individuals who experienced the strike firsthand, alongside photographs and protest placards that capture the emotionally charged atmosphere of the period.
Theatre shows to look out for in 2025
Back to the Future the Musical, Adelphi Theatre, London
Until 27 July 2025
Step back in time with Doc and Marty at the Adelphi Theatre in London. The musical brings the beloved 1985 film to life on stage, combining catchy songs, vibrant choreography and visuals to transport audiences into the world of the iconic time-traveling adventure.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Palace Theatre, London
Until 29 June 2025
Set 19 years after Harry and his friends save the wizarding world, follow Harry’s son Albus as he embarks on a new mission to stop mysterious forces. This acclaimed stage production combines storytelling with visual effects, creating a magical experience for both fans of the original series and newcomers alike. The show has received multiple awards and continues to draw international audiences.
The Play That Goes Wrong, Duchess Theatre, London
Until 1 February 2026
The Play That Goes Wrong, currently the longest-running comedy in the West End, follows a group of amateur actors as they attempt to stage a murder mystery, only to find their performance interrupted by a series of comical disasters. With its physical comedy and plot twists, the play invites audiences to join in the fun as they try to figure out “whodunnit”.
Mean Girls, Savoy Theatre, London
Until 16 February 2025
Mean Girls at the Savoy Theatre brings the iconic 2004 film to life with a lively musical adaptation. Trying to capture the highs and lows of teenage life, the story follows Cady Heron as she fights high school bullies, The Plastics. Based on Tina Fey’s screenplay for the hit film, audiences can expect some twists as the musical has been updated for modern times.
Stranger Things: The First Shadow, Phoenix Theatre, London
Until 6 April 2025
Step back in time to 1959 in the town of Hawkins for this new Stranger Things adventure from an award-winning creative team featuring director Stephen Daldry and the Duffer Brothers. Produced by Netflix and Sonia Friedman Productions, this epic immersive production delves into the origins of the supernatural events that shaped the hit TV series, blending storytelling with the nostalgic atmosphere of the late 1950s.
Cabaret, Playhouse Theatre, London
Until 2025
Cabaret transports viewers to the tumultuous Berlin of the 1930s, with the infamous Kit Kat Club serving as the backdrop for this iconic story set in the world of cabaret performers. The acclaimed revival features all the beloved songs and vibrant choreography, under the direction multi-Olivier award-winner Rebecca Frecknall.
Les Misérables, Sondheim Theatre, London
Until 29 March 2025
This long-running musical brings Victor Hugo’s tale of love and redemption to life on stage. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, the production follows the struggles of ex-convict Jean Valjean as he seeks redemption while being pursued by the villainous Inspector Javert.
The Mousetrap, St Martins Theatre, London
Until 27 September 2025
Mousetrap is the longest-running play in the history of British theatre. Written by Agatha Christie, this classic murder mystery unfolds in a remote guesthouse, where a group of strangers becomes trapped by a snowstorm and one of them is revealed to be a killer.
Mamma Mia, Novella Theatre, London
Until 27 September 2025
Sing along to ABBA hits with the smash-hit musical Mamma Mia!, a feel-good musical set on a Greek island and based on the songs of the Swedish pop legends. Produced by Judy Craymer and directed by Phyllida Lloyd, the show will light up London’s Novello Theatre until the autumn, when the cast embark on a UK tour.
The Phantom of the Opera, His Majety’s Theatre, London
Until 29 March 2025
Be immersed in the tragic love story between a talented young soprano and the mysterious Phantom who lives beneath the Paris Opera House. With its popular score by Andrew Lloyd Webber and award-winning choreography, the production stars Dean Chisnall as The Phantom, alongside Lily Kerhoas and Joe Griffiths-Brown.
Britain’s touring shows 2025
Hamilton
26 November 2024 – 25 October 2025
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s musical phenomenon about America’s lesser-known founding father embarks on a seven-city tour around Britain. Starring Shaquille Taylor as Hamilton and under the direction of Thomas Kail, the tour starts in Cardiff, with further performances in Bradford, Southampton, Liverpool, Sunderland, Plymouth, and Norwich.
Mamma Mia!
24 October 2025 – 4 January 2026
Sing along to the greatest hits of ABBA in this unforgettable love story. After opening in London’s West End 25 years ago, Mamma Mia! is bringing the party to the Mayflower Theatre Southampton, The Bristol Hippodrome, the New Theatre in Oxford and the Edinburgh Playhouse once its London run concludes.
The Book of Mormon
11 September 2024 – 30 August 2025
The Tony and Olivier Award-winning musical is going on tour! Follow the adventures of Elder Price and Elder Cunningham as they attempt to spread the gospel in this satirical show. Performances include Bradford, Birmingham, Plymouth, Hull, Nottingham, Cardiff, Newcastle and Norwich.
SIX
24 September 2024 – 6 December 2025
The story of King Henry VIII told from the perspective of his six wives. The Tudor queens are reimagined as pop stars, retelling their histories through a feminist lens. After successful runs on Broadway and the West End, the show is set to appear at more than 30 different British theatres.
