Pukka PR wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Below are a selection of exciting seasonal events & activities:
Special One-off Events
Taste of Christmas 7-9 December 2012 ExCel London
"Celebrate the festive season in style at Taste of Christmas - where inspired entertaining gets a glamorous makeover. A selection of the capital's top restaurants will be serving up seasonal menus full of dishes designed to inspire. Between bites, some of the country's best chefs will be taking to the stage to help you finesse your light entertaining, refine that ambitious festive menu and prepare for the ultimate season of extravagance. Plus, over 200 producers will be on offer, displaying the ideal gift, essential ingredient or winter warmer in Taste's boutique market, then settle down to a fine wine, cheese or chocolate tasting." Website: Taste of London
Macmillan Carols by Candlelight Concert 13 December 2012 St Paul's Church Knightsbridge 7.30pm
"Now in its 22nd year, the Macmillan Carols by Candlenight Concert is a magical candlelit concert held in the beautiful St Paul's Church in Knightsbridge. Presented by Alastair Bruce OBE, Vox Cordis will be the choir performing on the night again this year, whilst David Robb (Dr Clarkson from Downton Abbey) will be amongst the celebrity readers. Money raised from the concert will help Macmillan continue to fund vital support services, which support everyone that's living with cancer, every step of the way.
The concert is sponsored by Robert Walters, and supported by Berry Bros. and Rudd and Rhubarb."
Website: Carols by candlelight
Pukka PR's Featured December Event: ‘More Guns Than Roses' Art Exhibition & Party at No5 Cavendish Square, W1G 0PG.
Saturday 15 December 2012
Pukka PR invites you to view cutting-edge art work by fresh talented contemporary artists, enjoy a festive drink and connect with friends at No5 Cavendish Square London.
"More Guns Than Roses is a culmination of some of the most controversial artists in Europe and America. Maximillian Wiedemann, Von Hornsleth, Artmani and photographer Tyler Shields will be presenting work hung from scaffolding inside the venue, accompanied by a live soundtrack courtesy of House Music DJ Maxology. This exhibition is something very different and promises to be one very difficult to forget."
The Exhibition is from 6.30pm - 10pm and Afterparty from 10pm - 3am.
Champagne reception from 6.30pm - 7.30pm and the first 30 people will receive a free signed screen print!
Entry to the exhibition is complimentary before 10pm, door charges apply after 10pm.
RSVP IS ESSENTIAL - please ensure you reserve your place on the guestlist by email: rsvp@pukkapr.com
Info about the four Artists:
"About Kristian von Hornsleth
One of the most thought-provoking and entertaining artists of his generation, Kristian von Hornsleth is arguably the most exciting new artist in London at the moment. Born in Scotland and brought up in Denmark, Hornsleth confronts our obsession with branding and celebrity - and hot political issues - head on with a ruthless wit.
His previous work includes His ground-breaking conceptual project: the Uganda Village Project, in which he persuaded villagers in a poor African town to change their surnames to Hornsleth, legally, in return for goat or a pig, caused an international media storm. And it made him a popular public speaker." Kristian von Hornsleth Imitate Modern website
About Maximilian Wiedemann
Maximillian Wiedemann is a German graffiti artist. He is
known for exploring the dependent relationship between pop culture, media and consumerism. Most notably, he collaborated with celebrity photographer Tyler Shields, painting pieces featuring Lindsay Lohan, Elle MacPherson, Tamarra Ecclestone and Caprice Bourret. Wiedemann has been exhibiting and curating both collective and individual shows throughout Europe since 1999 and is represented in various collections around the world, most recently in Los Angeles.
Maximilian Wiedemann Imitate Modern Website
About Tyler Shields
Tyler Shields is based in Hollywood and known for his work with the elite young actors of our generation, including the stars of Glee, Mad Men, Twilight, and in particular the press world-wind about his over 60 shoots with Lindsay Lohan. His no hold barred style has seen him and 3 pop stars arrested for dangling them off a bridge for a shoot and his work is controversial enough to be branded illegal by over a dozen countries around the world. Tyler Shields Imitate Modern Website
About Artmani
Artmani is today best known for elegantly playing with our obsession with branding, advertisement and consumerism. He explores the trends and pressures adopted by our modern society, whilst satirically examining the mechanics of capitalism and so called ‘democracy'. Artmani's urban style uses a mix of spray-paint, combined with screen-printing and other techniques, encompassing a sense of Pop Art culture throughout his work.
His first major Fine Art show at The Courtauld Gallery saw his work hung alongside works by Monet, Van Gogh and Gauguin. This was the first exhibition in which The Courtauld Gallery had exhibited live artists, securing Artmani a name for himself in the Fine Art world. Unsurprisingly, Artmani is currently represented by some of London's most talked-about galleries, including Imitate Modern, GGGallery, and Graffik Gallery.
Artmani Imitate Modern Website
On-going Christmas Events and Activities
Southbank Centre Christmas Market 16 November - 24 December 2012
"Wooden chalets filled with festive food, drinks, gifts and treats run along the twinkling riverside. Enjoy mulled wine, bratwurst and gingerbread while taking in the lights, sights of London at Christmas time."
Monday to Friday 11am - 10pm Saturdays & Sundays 10am - 10pm. Website: Xmas Markets
Winter Wonderland Hyde Park 23 November 2012 - 6 January 2012. 10am - 10pm except Christmas Day
"Winter Wonderland is free to enter, if you just want to soak up the festive atmosphere, drink, eat and browse the Christmas markets.
Book tickets in advance for Ice Skating, Zippos Circus, The Magical Ice Kingdom and the Giant Observation Wheel.
Over 100 festive rides & attractions will dazzle you throughout the site, tickets will be available from token booths on site. Make a child's dream come true at Santa Land, and meet Santa in his famous grotto!" Website: Winter Wonderland Hyde Park
Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink 1 December 2012 - 13 January 2013 Daily (excluding 25 December)
"Feel the cold tingle of London's crisp winter air, listen to the music, and take in the incomparable surroundings as you glide (gracefully or not so!) around the rink in front of the breathtaking West Front of Henry's Tudor Palace.
Whether you gather a group of friends, plan a romantic date or decide to make a day of it at this world-famous palace, the Hampton Court Ice Rink is one of the coolest locations for winter fun with a group of friends or a festive family gathering."
Website: Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink
Natural History Museum Ice Rink 2 November 2012 - 6 January 2013
"Skate on the Museum's magical 950-square-metre ice rink from 2 November 2012 - 6 January 2013. You will be able to skate at 22.00 and the café bar will be open all evening as usual.
Food and drink
Not skating? Try our cafe bar for tasty food, drinks, snacks, festive treats and delicious Starbucks hot drinks, while you take in the stunning view from the balcony."
Website: Natural History Museum Ice Rink
Tower of London Ice Rink 17 November 2012 - 6 January 2013
"London's most dramatic open-air ice rink returns to the spectacular setting of the Tower of London. Located in the moat, the ice rink is set against the magnificent fortress battlements, providing a stunning setting for winter skating in the City. Ideal for lunchtime skating, after-work gatherings, romantic dates and weekend leisure. Beautifully illuminated after dark, it makes a spectacular night time destination.
If you're unsure underfoot, you can book a trained Ice Guide to look after you during your session on the ice.
Beside the ice rink, the Ice Bar & Café provides a welcome place to warm up after your skate, serving a selection of winter drinks and festive snacks." Website: Tower of London Ice Rink
Ice Rink Canary Wharf 3 November 2012 - 13 January 2013
"Nestled under the soaring buildings of Canada Square and bathed in twinkling festive lights Ice Rink Canary Wharf is back with a sparkling new look for the 2012/13 season.
Surrounded by shops, bars and restaurants, a visit to the Ice Rink offers a unique skating experience and features London's first skate path allowing skaters the chance to leave the main rink and skate through the trees that line the perimeter of Canada Square Park.
Running from 3rd November to 13 January, Ice Rink Canary Wharf is the perfect opportunity to get into the festive spirit."
Website: Ice Rink Canary Wharf
The Enchanted Christmas House - London Art House Islington 1 - 24 December 2012
"This Christmas, join Mrs Claus on a truly memorable adventure. The Elves will take you and your children on an exciting tour around the House to meet Santa's Magical Friends... Take part in an array of different Christmas activities that will keep the family busy for hours
Santa's Sacks of activities include:
• Surprise meetings from Magical Christmas Characters
• A feast of play zones in The Garden of Winter Wonder
• Making presents in The Busy Elves Workshop
• Decorating Gingerbread Men in The Gingerbread Kitchen
• Interactive games in The Genie's Christmas Cave
• Personalised family visits to meet Santa in his Grotto
A hot snack for the whole family
• Mulled Wine and Mince Pies"
Website: Enchanted Christmas House
The BT Christmas Concert - Royal Albert Hall 13 December 2012 - 7:30pm
"TV Presenter Chris Hollins presents a wonderful new assortment of festive delights from traditional music to favourite hits.
Plus a festive indoor firework finale"
Website: BT Christmas Concert RAH
Jingle Bell Christmas - Royal Albert Hall 15 December 2012 - 1:30pm
"Let the fun begin with this rollickin' treat of a show. Special Guests Jacinta Whyte and Tim Howar. Plus Christmas high-kicks from the Jingle Belles" Website: Jingle Bell Christmas RAH
Christmas Carolling - Royal Albert Hall 21 December 2012 - 2:30pm
"Christmas Carolling With Very Special Guest Russell Watson.
A marvellous afternoon of festive fun and superb holiday music to get your Christmas party going. Presented by Russell Grant
With Guest Singers Sophie Evans & James Graeme"
Website: Christmas Carolling RAH
Carols by Candlelight - Fine Dining Royal Albert Hall 16 December 2012 - 7:30pm
"Enjoy pre-show hospitality in a Royal Albert Hall restaurant with premium Stalls seating. Packages include:
• Two courses from an à la carte menu
• Glass of Moët & Chandon champagne on arrival
• ½ bottle of wine and water per person
• Premium Stalls seat
• Show programme
£140 per person*"
Website: Carols by Candlelight - Fine Dining RAH
Carols by Candlelight - Royal Albert Hall 24 December 2012 - 7:00pm
"Herald the Christmas season with this exquisite concert of carols and seasonal classics performed by the UK's most elegant orchestra, staged in full 18th Century costume in an evocative candle-lit style setting.
And readings from Dickens and the Scriptures by special guest Julian Rhind-Tutt"
Website: Carols by Candlelight RAH
Covent Garden Christmas Food Market at Covent Garden
"Get into the Christmas spirit by enjoying a little festive cheer, courtesy of The Mulled Wine Hut. Again, it's easily spotted as the stall looks like a huge Christmas present. There's also hot apple juice, minced pies and traditionally roasted chestnuts on offer. Save a little space though, for the seasonal delights of Covent Garden's Real Food Market which runs every Thursday and Friday from 12th November until Christmas.
As well as the usual diverse collection of excellent stalls, there are gourmet Christmas treats from specialist suppliers and, joy of joys, a chocolate bar serving hot chocolate drinks and handmade sweet treats."
Website: Covent Garden Christmas Food Market
More London Christmas Market 13-16 December 2012
"Following the success of last year's market the 2012 More London Christmas Market has been enlarged. This year it will last for four days and include more food and craft stalls. We are very excited about welcoming We Make London, a creative organisation which is dedicated to supporting the best of British designer- makers. They will be offering an array of beautiful and unique products which are reasonably priced. There will also be a variety of more traditional top quality market traders selling crafts, food and beverages.
In addition we are delighted to welcome back young entrepreneurs from the Princes Trust. They will also be selling interesting wares that could be the perfect Christmas present! To add to the festive spirit there will be a programme of entertainment - keep an eye on our website to see who will be performing."
Website: More London Christmas Market at The Scoop
Brent Cross Winter Wonderland 8 December 2012 - 5 January 2013 12 noon-10pm
"The Panto Company will be showcasing a 20 minute production of Robinson Crusoe; This is fantastic entertainment for the whole family.
Want to see the amazing sights of London have a go on our 100ft panoramic Big Wheel. Take the kids on a slippery journey on our giant ice skating rink. This year at Brent Cross Winter Wonderland we will have the perfect festive ride for kids a wonderful Victorian Carousel with traditional animal mounts, barley twists and fairy lights.
There will be a variety of magicians and street entertainers to delight and amuse.
Beep Beep..Let the kids (and the big kids) loose on the bumper cars. DELICIOUS FOOD & DRINK...''To give you that rosy glow while strolling through the Christmas snow.
All kids love face painting let your little ones imagination run wild and get them transformed with our talented face paint artists."
Website: Brent Cross Winter Wonderland
Skate at Somerset House 16 November 2012 - 6 January 2013
"Check out our Skate Club Night line up. Highlights include Ministry of Sound and the Loose Cannons as well as some of the most in demand DJs around.
Find your feet on the ice with Skate School and give your children their first glide on the ice with Penguin Club. Or simply soak up the atmosphere rink-side at Tom's Skate Lounge and pick up the perfect present at our new luxury pop-up shop, The Christmas Arcade." Website: Skate at Somerset House
Valentino: Master of Couture 29 November 2012 - 3 March 2013
"This major new exhibition celebrating the life and work of Valentino showcases over 130 exquisite haute couture designs worn by icons such as Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren and Gwyneth Paltrow in an exciting installation created specially for Somerset House."
Website: Valentino Somerset House
Scrooge London Palladium - runs until January 12th 2013
"‘Scrooge' is written by award winning composer Leslie Bricusse, who whimsically turned Dickens' festive tale into an all singing and all dancing extravaganza! The musical follows the story of Ebenezer Scrooge who is visited by three ghosts on Christmas eve, showing him his past, present and future. Set in Victorian London this lively show features a talented cast and ensemble, bring together musical number such as ‘Thank You Very Much', ‘I Hate People', ‘December 25th' and ‘I'll Begin Again'."
Website: Scrooge London Palladium
Cinderella 24 November 2012 - 5 January 2013
"The Hardups come to Hammersmith this Christmas as Cinderella seeks her prince Charming.
Now in its fourth year the traditional Lyric panto once again returns to Hammersmith.
Back by popular demand is Steven Webb, after previously playing the lovable Dick Whittington and the cheeky blue monkey Wishy Washy in last year's Aladdin."
Website: Cinderella Lyric Theatre
Aladdin A Wish Come True 7 December 2012 - 5 January 2013
"Lily Savage will dust down her theatrical muses and throw on the guise of Widow Twankey for a rare and unique stage appearance in a strictly limited season of Aladdin A Wish Come True at The Theatre at The O2. A purpose built 1900-seat theatre will host what Whatsonstage called "a classy panto" starring the inimitable Lily Savage as one of the greatest dames in pantomime, Widow Twankey"
Website: Aladdin A Wish Come True o2 Arena
Beauty and The Beast 6 December 2012 to 30 December 2012
"Popular TV Presenter Alison Hammond best known from "ITV's This Morning" will be spreading some fairy dust at the Shaw Theatre this Christmas in the spectacular family pantomime Beauty & the BEAST. Eggheads C J de Mooi will be providing the boos as the resident baddie and will be joined by heartthrob Oliver Mellor best known as the dishy on TV's Coronation Street, oh yes he is!! Top Pantomime Dame Rodney Ward and Harry Potter's Rusty Goffe will join a supporting cast and dancers in this festive extravaganza"
Website: Beauty and The Beast Shaw Theatre
Dick Whittington and his Cat 1 December 2012 - 6 January 2013
"A show for all the family, Dick Whittington tells the rags-to-riches tale of a young man and his loyal cat, on their exciting quest to find fame and fortune. Featuring all the traditional pantomime ingredients; thrilling adventure, show-stopping songs, dazzling dance routines, knockabout comedy and bags of audience participation, this is guaranteed to be another Hackney hit and the perfect Christmas treat."
Website: Dick Whittington Hackney Empire
Robin Hood A Pantomime Adventure - 22 November 2012 - 6 January 2013
"Fresh from the record-breaking success of last year's spectacular production of Aladdin, Greenwich Theatre reunites with Andrew Pollard for another all-singing, all-dancing pantomime treat.
Packed with high-energy music and dance, razor sharp comedy, a riveting story and, of course, a star turn as Marian's nanny from Andrew Pollard himself, ROBIN HOOD is simply not to be missed."
Website: Robin Hood Greenwich Theatre
The Snowman - Sadler's Wells Peacock Theatre 28 November 2012 - 6 January 2013
"The stage show based on Raymond Briggs The Snowman and the subsequent film has become a much-loved festive tradition at The Peacock Theatre. Ruari Murchison's enchanting design combined with Tim Mitchell's spectacular lighting has been delighting children for 14 years. With its wonderful mix of storytelling, spectacle and magic, The Snowman is back for a record-breaking 15th year."
Website: The Snowman Peacock Theatre Sadler's Wells
Matthew Bourne's Sleeping Beauty - Saddler's Wells 4 December 2012- 26 January 2013
"Sleeping Beauty sees Bourne return to the music of Tchaikovsky to complete the trio of ballet masterworks that started with Nutcracker! And the international smash hit, Swan Lake.
Matthew Bourne's haunting new production is a gothic romance; a supernatural love story that even the passage of time cannot hinder."
Website: Sleeping Beauty Sadler's Wells
Walking With Dinosaurs - The Arena Spectacular 26 December 2012 - 6 January 2012
"After a worldwide tour seen by over 7 million people in 206 cities, the stunning theatrical event WALKING WITH DINOSAURS - The Arena Spectacular is back!
Internationally renowned designers have worked with scientists to create 20 life- size dinosaurs, including the terror of the ancient terrain, Tyrannosaurus rex! Be amazed and thrilled as the greatest creatures ever to walk the earth return before your eyes.
Its' a dazzling £10,000,000 arena spectacle of unprecedented size and quality set to captivate young and old alike. Marvel at the story of their 200 million year domination of life on earth. Watch them walk. Hear the roar. Be there as they fight for survival and supremacy. From the ripple of their skin to the glint of their eye, you will know the dinosaurs really are back!"
Website: Walking With Dinosaurs
Delight of Christmas around London captured in Pukka PR's photos below. Photos by © Gina Chrysanthou & Amita Chatterji.
