We’ve always known that London was full of arts events and performances, but it’s often been difficult to track them down. These two websites are now up to speed and able to help.Let’s see now
theSeer rides two horses. Let them explain for themselves:
"theSeer is the free online directory and resource for all of London’s creative individuals, organisations, venues, commissioners and bookers to find, receive and promote arts and creative information in London. It is also a key research and communication resource for London's Local Authorities, Arts Council England, London, arts policy makers and researchers."
So, not much of an agenda there then! The twin-track approach, catering both for London arts professionals and the rest of us, is an advantage and a disadvantage.
The advantage is that artists and arts promoters have a big incentive to keep their directory entries up-to-date and attractive. The disadvantage is that it’s a bit clunky to get into. If you’re just looking for an exhibition or a show to go to, the quickest way in is via the left hand "What’s On" menu. For more options you will have to get your thoughts together (where and when) and use the search engine.
Don’t get me wrong – it’s worth doing, mostly because the mix of large- and small-scale stuff you will find here would take a heck of a lot of searching for anywhere else. You will find things which are otherwise only advertised on A5 flyers stuck up in local shops and libraries, so you can save yourself some shoe-leather while you find some entertainment.
Of course I’m writing this from the point of view of the average bum on a seat. If you are, or want to be, a practising artist, performer or craftsperson, you will certainly want to visit theSeer as soon as possible, for news of funding, and to generate your own directory entry.
Pleasingly, Westminster Reference Library’s exhibition and events about Oliver Messel feature prominently. Quite right too.
(From the Gateway to websites, select "London". theSeer is under "Art & performance".)
Strictly Young London
londondance is promoted jointly by the Arts Council and Sadler’s Wells. In addition to advertising professional and amateur dance events, they have a great section devoted to youth dance. Like youth theatre, youth dance has an educational function, but it can also provide some cracking performances which anyone can enjoy.
As London is hosting the National Youth Dance Festival in July, there’s a lot going on in this field and this town. Just the pictures on the website are enough to make you want to catch a performance – or even join in!
(From the Gateway to websites, select "London". londondance is under "Art & performance".)
Picture credit: clarita/morguefile.com
Don’t get me wrong – it’s worth doing, mostly because the mix of large- and small-scale stuff you will find here would take a heck of a lot of searching for anywhere else. You will find things which are otherwise only advertised on A5 flyers stuck up in local shops and libraries, so you can save yourself some shoe-leather while you find some entertainment.
Of course I’m writing this from the point of view of the average bum on a seat. If you are, or want to be, a practising artist, performer or craftsperson, you will certainly want to visit theSeer as soon as possible, for news of funding, and to generate your own directory entry.
Pleasingly, Westminster Reference Library’s exhibition and events about Oliver Messel feature prominently. Quite right too.
(From the Gateway to websites, select "London". theSeer is under "Art & performance".)
Strictly Young London
londondance is promoted jointly by the Arts Council and Sadler’s Wells. In addition to advertising professional and amateur dance events, they have a great section devoted to youth dance. Like youth theatre, youth dance has an educational function, but it can also provide some cracking performances which anyone can enjoy.
As London is hosting the National Youth Dance Festival in July, there’s a lot going on in this field and this town. Just the pictures on the website are enough to make you want to catch a performance – or even join in!
(From the Gateway to websites, select "London". londondance is under "Art & performance".)
Picture credit: clarita/morguefile.com
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