We take a look at the best of entertainment to be found in the capital this July

MUSIC

Symphonic Horizons, 30 July-4 August
Opening this month, celebrated physicist Professor Brian Cox joins forces with renowned conductor Daniel Harding for a show that promises to be out of this world. This unique event blends cutting-edge science with the evocative sounds of the Britten Sinfonia. Audiences are invited to lose themselves in a captivating journey through cosmic ideas, exploring the mysteries of the universe with a focus on human existence – and to discover the intriguing connections between cosmology and music. And where better to experience mind-bending science mixed with powerful orchestral music than in Covent Garden’s exquisite Royal Opera House.
Bow Street, WC2E (020 7304 4000; roh.org.uk)

Photography by Daniel Greenan

THEATRE

GRUD, Until 3 August
Hampstead Theatre’s INSPIRE 2022 alumna Sarah Power brings us this gripping story, directed by Jaz Woodcock-Stewart, and starring Catherine Ashdown, Kadiesha Belgrave and Karl Theobald. It’s the start of a new term at college, and the sixth formers are buzzing about mocks, UCAS applications, and the juicy gossip about Elliot Park and Georgia Smith in the study room… Aicha, after losing the student president election, is channelling all her energy into the school’s Extended Physics Project – aka Space Club. When the usually shy and distant Bo unexpectedly joins her, Aicha is thrilled, but Bo’s mind is consumed by the black hole of her troubled home life. She’s worked tirelessly to propel herself to bigger and better things – but will Grud drag her back?
Eton Avenue, NW3 (020 7722 9301; hampsteadtheatre.com)

Hampstead Theatre’s Grud

DANCE

Fuerza Bruta: AVEN, 12 July-1 September
Direct from Buenos Aires comes a dynamic and immersive performance that transcends theatrical boundaries. AVEN is a high-octane celebration of adventure and paradise, designed to captivate and exhilarate. The show, masterminded by artistic director Diqui James with music direction by Gaby Kerpel, combines intense dance routines, pulsating music, and breath-taking aerial stunts. Prepare to be wowed as you enter a dreamlike realm where gravity seems optional, with performers running, tumbling, and flying through the air. A must-see event for thrill-seekers and dance enthusiasts alike.
Chalk Farm Road, NW1 (roundhouse.org.uk)

Fuerza Bruta: AVEN

EXHIBITION

RA Young Artists’ Summer Show, 16 July-11 August
While the RA’s Summer Exhibition is an annual must-see, YASS is also a non-negotiable on the Capital’s art calendar. Now in its sixth year, this vibrant exhibition, spanning various mediums and styles, pulls together talented students aged 4-19 from across the UK. From striking paintings to innovative sculptures, the works on display have been selected by a panel of enthusiastic artists and arts professionals, and they reflect the diverse perspectives of the next generation of creatives. Expect to be captivated by the originality and passion of these budding artists.
Clore Learning Centre, Burlington Gardens, W1S (020 7300 8000; royalacademy.org.uk)

RA Young Artists’ Summer Show

THEATRE

Richard III, Until 3 August
The Globe’s artistic director Michelle Terry once again collaborates with director Elle While to portray one of Shakespeare’s most fascinating anti-heroes, delving into the magnetism of malevolence in this tale of power, betrayal and retribution. Following generations of conflict, a tenuous peace prevails, yet Richard’s ruthless ambition and deceit threaten to unravel everything and his relentless pursuit of the crown endangers all around him. In this tumult, queens, mothers, and wives – united in their grief and fury – find strength in solidarity, invoking curses to seek their revenge. Will the warring factions reconcile their deep-seated animosities, or will Richard’s machinations lead to the country’s ultimate downfall?
21 New Globe Walk, SE1 (020 7401 9919; shakespearesglobe.com)

Richard III, The Globe