What's on in Richmond this May?
Musical Mayhem
May 9, 7.30 pm | Book here
An evening of lighthearted music featuring classical, opera and improvisation from some of London’s rising stars in aid of NSPCC Childline. May 9, 7.30 pm at St Mary’s Church Barnes. Tickets are £35, including a glass of wine at the interval.
Featuring classical, opera and improvisation by:
- Alex Aldren, tenor
- Anna Cavaliero, soprano
- JongSun Woo, pianist
- Sam Norris, alto sax
- Ashkan Layegh, pianist
- Alice Chadwick Jones, violinist
The 2024 Richmond May Fair
May 11, 10 am - 5 pm | Book here
The 2024 Richmond May Fair on Richmond Green promises to be bigger and better than ever, with hundreds of stalls, a vintage funfair, a dog show, a craft marquee and various food and drink providers. There’s a packed entertainment programme featuring local bands, schools, and performance groups throughout the day.
Richmond Hill Open Gardens
May 19, 11 am – 5 pm | Book here
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore 18 beautiful (usually private) gardens – six of them new for this year – at Richmond Hill Open Gardens. Within walking distance of each other and close to Richmond town centre, the gardens are all set on the slopes of Richmond Hill. There will also be a plant sale at Gloucester House and tea and homemade cakes at St Matthias Church. The event has raised over £60,000 for local charities since its inception. Adult tickets are £12.50, incl. entry to all gardens (u16s free).
Hampton Court Palace Artisan Fayre
May 17 - 19 | Book here
Discover an array of independent makers at Hampton Court Palace’s Artisan Fayre this month, from unique homewares and fashion accessories to beauty products and more, with admission to the Palace included. Enjoy street food, workshops, artisan makers, live music, Fête games and more. Adult tickets from £27.20.
Machinal at The Old Vic
On until June 1 | Book here
Starring Barnes’ very own Buffy Davis, Machinal is based on the true crime story of Ruth Snyder, which shook a nation in 1928. It opened to rave reviews at the Theatre Royal Bath last year; now, you can catch it at London’s Old Vic until June 1. Tickets are £13 (plus booking fee).
Preloved Designer Fashion Sale
May 4, 10 am - 3 pm
Ever since her student days, local personal stylist Nicki Peplow has been a fan of second-hand clothing. Her passion has evolved as the need for sustainability has grown. This month, she is hosting a preloved designer fashion sale, where shoppers can satiate their high-end fashion label cravings without the hefty price tag. May 4, 10 am - 3 pm at Rose House, 70 Barnes High Street SW13 9LD. Free entrance.
Art by Andolini
May 13-22 | Book here
At Barnes Riverside Gallery, local contemporary artist Joseph Andolini is showcasing over 90 of his original artworks and graffiti paintings, with subjects ranging from iconic film stars and musicians to Brazilian and London influences. May 13-22, 36 Barnes High St, SW13 9LP.
Fuller’s popular in-pub performances
May 8th & 30th | Book here
Fuller’s popular in-pub performances return this year with William Makepeace Thackeray’s society story of Vanity Fair, with original songs, costumes and some (now customary) audience participation. Local pubs include The Prince Blucher in Twickenham (May 8) and The Anglers at Teddington Lock (May 30), 7 pm, tickets £20.
Punt & Dennis: We Are Not A Robot at Richmond Theatre
May 31, 7.30 pm | Tickets
Hugh Dennis and Steve Punt are back on tour for the first time in ten years. What have they learned from a decade of following the news for Mock the Week and The Now Show? What wisdom has experience taught them? And have they learned any new jokes? Let’s hope so. They promise they have.
Nearby events
Shakespeare in the Park
Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre opens this month with the comedy of mistaken identities, Twelfth Night (or What You Will) (May 3-June 8). Playing during the daytime for those aged 4+ and their families is a new musical version of Roald Dahl’s The Enormous Crocodile (May 17-June 8). See openairtheatre.com, tickets from £15.
Surbiton Croquet Club
May 27, 10 - 4 pm
With players ranging from complete beginners to some of the best in the world, this 150-strong club on Alexandra Drive, Surbiton, hosts an open day for anyone keen to try the sport. All equipment is provided—wear flat shoes!