mar 20

now
Hello!
Truth, myths and perception are themes running
through this month’s Guide. We hear from artist
Toyin Ojih Odutola, whose first UK commission
Songs of the soul
opens in The Curve this month, about how Conductor and composer André J Thomas tells us about
narratives unfold in her work (page 3). uniting symphonic and gospel music.
‘It’s true! It’s true! It’s true’ cries out artist
Artemisia Gentileschi in Breach Theatre’s
production recounting the trial of her rapist.
The company’s Ellice Stevens tells us there are
depressing parallels with women’s experiences
today (page 4).
And how have female directors portrayed
masculinity? In a special season in our Cinema
to accompany the Art Gallery’s exhibition,
Masculinities: Liberation through Photography,
we’re taking the opportunity to have a rarely-
seen perspective on the topics, across multiple
genres.
Throughout the listings pages you’ll notice we’ve
added some new icons. While all Barbican
events are accessible to all audiences, we’ve
used these symbols to flag events which might
be of interest to people with specific needs. For
more information on our access provision see
barbican.org.uk/access.

Contents
Now
André J Thomas brings together spiritual and gospel songs
Highlights
What’s coming up this month 1–4 ‘This concert brings together two forms of music because they have to play riffs and do all kinds
Reversing the male gaze 5–6 that are indigenous to African Americans: the of things they don’t usually play.’ He laughs,
Cinema 7–8 slave song as spiritual and the gospel song ‘Once the anxiety factor has gone, there’s a very
which came after emancipation and grew different kind of energy in the room.’
Classical Music 9–10
out of the spiritual,’ says Thomas. ‘Now we’re The evening also includes the UK premiere of
Art & Design 11 putting that in symphonic setting, with full Thomas’s Mass – A Celebration of Love and Joy.
Theatre & Dance 13 orchestra and choir.’
‘In 1978 Robert Ray wrote what we thought was
Contemporary Music 14 Combining the stirring power of the London the first Gospel Mass. Forty years later I decided
Symphony Orchestra with the massed voices of
Soon a choir singing such globally influential music,
it was time for someone to revisit that idea, and
Book now for these it has taken off amazingly. It debuted in Kansas
this is sure to be a deeply moving experience. City in February 2019 and has been almost in
forthcoming events 15–16
‘This is music of the soul, of a people who were constant performance since.’
Always so close to music,’ says the recently-retired Just as we end our conversation, Thomas
Enjoy the Barbican Florida State University professor, who is warm reflects on an important historic milestone. ‘The
at any time of day 17–18 and friendly, with a fierce intellect. ‘It’s music first slave ships arrived in Virginia in 1619. It’s
about their lives. As Africans, that’s a crucial powerful to think that this artform was born
part of our expression – in the African village through something as tragic as slavery, and that
everyone dances and sings. That extended itself its power continues today.
to the time of slavery; add the religious element
on top, and it creates something incredibly They’ve led us through emancipation, the civil
powerful.’ rights movement,’ he pauses, then laughs: ‘and
it’s even led us through Donald Trump.’
But it won’t just be a unique experience for the
audience. Symphonic Gospel Spirit
‘I remember doing a concert similar to this with 1 Mar
the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, See page 9 for details
years ago when Sir Simon Rattle was there,’
remembers Thomas from his home in the
Orange State. ‘It’s interesting for the players

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Music and literature

take flight
Author Richard King is bringing his book The Lark Ascending to life
in a cross-genre blend of music, visuals, spoken word and dance.

Deep Throat Choir will share their take on the Greenham Common Women’s Peace Camp Songbook.

King’s 2019 book, The Lark Ascending, chronicles and make them feel like a part of something a number of years, having first met through
his walks around rural Britain, charting how its larger. That really resonates with us: the idea of contributing to the Caught By the River website.
identity has been shaped by musical, political coming together as a group to make something ‘Richard came to rural Lancashire, where I live,
and social forces. Now he’s assembled some of beautiful and where your words form part of a while he was writing The Lark Ascending,’ he
the musicians featured in the book for a night of larger whole. It takes away the individual in a says. ‘We went on a few walks, talking about
performance and readings. really nice way, becoming part of a collective sound and landscape and politics – all that
It opens with a new arrangement of Vaughan thing instead.’ good stuff.’
Williams’ bucolic work, which gave the In preparation for the performance, the choir The walks ended up in the book, and King
book its name, performed by one of Jonny will be hearing from former members of the reached out to his friend again, when this
Greenwood’s favourite violinists Daniel Pioro, protest movement. ‘It’s great to feel connected staging was commissioned. ‘I’m creating new
Squarepusher collaborator and organist to this history through their songs,’ adds film works and field recordings for the show,
James McVinnie, viol player Liam Byrne and Gerstein. ‘They’re really inspiring and it’s an which will be mixed with archival footage,’
CHROMA founder cellist Clare O’Connell. honour to sing this music and transmit their he says, adding he found the book ‘a really
Deep Throat Choir will be offering their take on actions and energy to others.’ original way of thinking about this entwining
songs from the Greenham Common Women’s The rest of the programme includes Vashti of landscape and sound and music and
Peace Camp Songbook – a collection of the Bunyan playing a short set of songs from across politics, to tell an alternative story of Britain in
protest music sung by the campaigners against her career, while Arthur Jeffes performs a the 20th century’.
nuclear weapons based at RAF Greenham selection of his father’s original Penguin Café
Common in Berkshire – one of the longest- Orchestra material, the only performance of the The Lark Ascending
running protests in British history. original material this year. 24 Mar
Founder of the choir, Luisa Gerstein, says: As well as a solo performance, video artist See page 14 for details
‘It’s really interesting how music and singing Rob St John will be directing visuals through
collectively was used to galvanise people the evening. He has been friends with King for

March 2020 2
now
Making myths
Artist Toyin Ojih Odutola tells us about what’s behind her
epic new work in The Curve, for her first UK commission.
Can you offer some insight into the working with a conceptual sound artist (Peter
imagined myth that provides the Adjaye), and adopting a more linear narrative
framework for your Barbican exhibition? in how to present A Countervailing Theory not
‘There is a plethora of rock depositories in simply as a solo exhibition, but an experience.
Plateau State, central Nigeria. These rocks ‘My sincerest hope for visitors to the space is
predate the oldest known civilisations of the to be transported in some way as they travel
world. The idea of finding a series of rocks with its expanse. I think what art gifts us is space
pictographs on them provided creative license and time to sit with our thoughts and carefully
and a means for a framework. To imagine a consider something – be it an idea, a feeling,
story of an ancient civilisation existing in this a belief, an answer to a “why” – which,
region many centuries ago from remnants unfortunately, is becoming a luxury. Providing
found in these rock depositories presented an a stretch of 90 metres for stillness, focus, and
opportunity to explore and question myth- contemplation is something I think people might
making. need right now. It may seem intangible and
‘A Countervailing Theory is more of a thought- relative, but that doesn’t mean it’s unimportant
experiment involving the activity of myth- and unnecessary.’
production, with a hypothesis housed in its title:
where one powerful force must, in theory, have Toyin Ojih Odutola: A Countervailing
an equally powerful force countering it for Theory
balance. 26 Mar–26 Jul
See page 11 for details
‘If one believes in an overarching, dominating
Toyin Ojih Odutola, Semblance of Certainty from A Countervailing story over time, there’s a risk of being consumed
Theory, (2019). © Toyin Ojih Odutola. Courtesy of the artist and Jack by a monosyllabic, monolithic, and limited
Shainman Gallery, New York.
perception of the world. This can affect what
is deemed acceptable, what is considered
Recognising the pen as a ‘writing tool first’, Ojih official record, and what innovative, alternative
Odutola plays with the idea that drawing can conceptions are included. This project aims to
be a form of storytelling, often creating extensive present options in how one chooses to consider
narratives that play out over a series of works. and tell a story, what a story can encompass,
Her commission for The Curve, A Countervailing and why one shouldn’t feel it comes from a
Theory, imagines a myth inscribed on rock place of lack.
formations in central Nigeria, revealing the story ‘The works you will experience in The Curve
of an ancient civilisation. She tells us about her aren’t diluted or made more palatable for
work, and how The Curve inspired her. visitors; they are created in a language and
from a place visitors can impart their own ideas,
Tell us a bit about your process beliefs and experiences into, and equally gather
‘Every project demands a different approach, from. There is much from our global past we
but generally, I like to start with a question or simply do not know, despite the overwhelming
a series of questions which lay the grounds for evidence of stories there. A Countervailing
a story to develop while I’m working. With A Theory presents one possibility of engaging with
Countervailing Theory, I started with themes that unknown.’
involving ecology as language, how imperialist
systems are standardised, androgyny, and the How did the unusual shape of The Curve
pervasive dominance of occidental archetypes. gallery influence or affect how you
I also undertook geological and historical conceived your commission?
research specific to central Nigeria, and the ‘The first time I visited The Curve space it was
materials, tools and surfaces I was using had empty, undergoing renovation. I remember as
to be tested for consistency. The process of I walked through the scale of it thinking how
preparation took roughly eight months before intimate it felt, despite its vastness. It’s an act of
the art-making actually began. Once you’re in unfolding in that every concave corner becomes
the thick of it, the story evolves.’ another, transforming into a kind of never- Toyin Ojih Odutola, Semblance of Certainty from A Countervailing
Theory, (2019). © Toyin Ojih Odutola. Courtesy of the artist and Jack
ending maze of interiority. I saw the potential Shainman Gallery, New York.
What attracts you to using drawing in how similar it is to a hand-scroll being
materials as your media? unwrapped in increments.
‘It’s something to do with the immediacy of
mark-making only applicable with certain tools. ‘Everything about this project was made with
I never use a brush, though it’s not that simple; The Curve specifically in mind, which I had
I work somewhere in-between the processes of never experienced before. This extended to
drawing and painting. I like to layer marks in an my working on gessoed-linen for the first time,
aggressively heavy way, which can be painterly, restricting my palette to the monochromatic,
but I also like to do so quickly, which dry media
takes well.’

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Four centuries of truth

In researching the trial of painter Artemisia Gentileschi, Breach Theatre
discovered depressing parallels with the experience of women today.

Breach Theatre use documentary techniques to research their productions, which are based on historical events. © The Other Richard.

In 1611, Artemisia Gentileschi – one of the ‘There are so many parallels with women’s The play is performed by an all-female cast,
foremost painters of the Baroque period – was experiences today,’ says Stevens. ‘There are each actor playing multiple roles. Stevens says
raped by her tutor Agostino Tassi. The trial sent many other things that happened to her during they immediately knew it had to be this way: ‘If
shockwaves through her native Rome. the trial that people still experience.‘ there was a man playing Tassi, it would feel like
Four centuries later, her tale was recounted ‘There was a film made in the 90s, which is two women shouting at him – which he would
by Guardian art critic Jonathan Jones, who rubbish – it rewrites her narrative to say she have deserved, but people would get distracted.
described her as ‘one of the most brilliant was in love with her rapist, which she wasn’t. It Having women play all the roles means the
followers of the incendiary artist Caravaggio’. was really weird having read the transcripts to power plays are worn on the body and that
After reading about it, Breach Theatre’s see the film portray her in this way and really makes them more recognisable. It talks to a
co-founders, Ellice Stevens, Dorothy Allen- infuriating.’ landscape of men who use these tricks rather
Pickard and Billy Barrett, immediately knew than one specific individual.
The play addresses themes of power, consent
they wanted to bring the story to the stage. The and women’s experiences of a patriarchal ‘From the perspective of making the show, it
company, described by Lyn Gardner as ‘one legal system. Gentileschi’s voice roars through felt safer for us to ask women to come into the
of the smartest young companies around’, uses the centuries as she asserts the truth of what room with other women. That means certain
documentary techniques to bring historical happened. conversations could happen in a safe place. We
events to life – and this was precisely the sort were looking out for each other and it shaped
of material they knew was important to shine a However, in using large parts of the transcripts the play because we would go really dark, but
light on. verbatim, there was one major problem: the lack then punctuate that with humour and lift each
of Gentileschi’s voice. She was given much less other up together – that felt very like a very
Stevens headed to Italy to uncover the original opportunity to have her say than the men in the
transcripts. Surprisingly they still exist, and they female approach.’
room – even while being put in thumbscrews and
reveal familiar echoes with the experiences of tortured under questioning from the defendant.
women today. It’s True, It’s True, It’s True
Stevens says the company has rectified this for 31 Mar–9 Apr
‘When I read the transcripts, it was obvious how their production. ‘The transcripts were so long See page 13 for details
they could have been lifted and brought to a that if we had staged the whole thing it would
court room now,’ says Stevens. be eight hours long, so we had to do a lot of
Their production, It’s True, It’s True, It’s True, cutting. We started with Artemesia’s story – we
was written before the #MeToo movement, but wanted to leave her words pretty much verbatim.
as it reached its debut at Edinburgh in 2018, it In our production she has an equal amount to
became more and more relevant. say as everyone else.’

March 2020 4
now
Reversing the male gaze
Barbican Cinema Curator Alex Davidson tells us how female filmmakers from around
the world have offered challenging and provocative perspectives on masculinity.
The gender imbalance in filmmaking means we Shepitko instead conveys the desperation and race as some take pride in the fact they are not
don’t often get to see masculinity through the complex emotions of men under pressure to from African heritage, an identity that makes
eyes of women. But our season Her Lens, His fight for their lives in The Ascent (1977). Plunging the cheerfully ostentatious Iku stand out from
Story shows how great female directors have us into the horrors of the Great Patriotic War, the crowd.’
reversed the traditional gaze to give us exciting we follow two soldiers’ struggle to survive in The final film in the season is The Orphanage
and challenging male characters. German-occupied Belorussia. (2019), a new film by Shahrbanoo Sadat. Set in a
The film season accompanies the Art Gallery’s ‘Shepitko shows how the determination Soviet orphanage in 1980s Afghanistan, her film
major exhibition Masculinities: Liberation to live leads the two protagonists to make follows 15-year-old Qodrat, who is sent to the
through Photography, which explores how drastic decisions, with one styling himself as titular institution when he is caught selling black
the subject has been depicted by artists and a martyr-like figure while the other considers market cinema tickets on the streets of Kabul.
photographers. It’s an opportunity to have a collaboration with the enemy,’ says Davidson. ‘Although there are a couple of bullies in the
rarely-seen perspective across multiple genres. ‘In The Ascent, war is hell, a man-made orphanage, Sadat shows it as a place where
‘Norway’s first female director, Edith Carlmar, catastrophe where we are all the victims.’ boys form friendships, boosted by solidarity
launched her career with the splendid, Argentine director Anahi Berneri offers a and camaraderie. She also shows the dreams
subversive 1949 film noir Death is a Caress, a different aspect. She explores an underworld and fantasies of her main character, who
film that deserves to be far better known,’ says where gay men, so often rejected for not daydreams himself into a series of elaborate
Davidson, who has curated the season. ‘While confirming to societal gender norms, take on Bollywood numbers. This unique coming-of-
the tropes of noir are present – the hard-bitten uber-masculine roles, steeped in machismo age tale, set when a new regime was about the
man, the femme fatale, the moody lighting – and sexualised violence. Her film, the sexually enforce a strict new form of masculinity on its
Carlmar deftly uses the genre to comment on explicit A Year Without Love (2005), touchingly male population, is a delight,’ says Davidson.
the complexities of her male protagonist.’ portrays Pablo, a gay man living with HIV The boys and men in these films, unencumbered
In the film, the dashing Erik almost knowingly searching for love and connection in Buenos by clichéd representations of heroism or
makes bad decision after bad decision, jilting Aires. Marginalised in society, coldly received toxic villainy, are imperfect, often likeable
his loyal fiancée to have an affair with Sonja – by his family, Pablo becomes drawn to the city’s and above all recognisably human. These
an older, married and, crucially, more confident S&M and leather scene, where a hot encounter directors, looking at different manifestations
society woman. This sparks a downward spiral with a charismatic bondage master promises of masculinities around the world, show how
of suspicion, paranoia and male hysteria, as passion and romance. reversing the traditional gaze can produce
Erik realises he has no control over Sonja, and Sensitively played by Juan Minujín, the brilliant and challenging works of cinema.
dark passions threaten to veer into violence. intelligent and artistic Pablo desperately seeks
‘Whereas male directors may have focused on love and affection in this dark and potentially Her Lens, His Story
the presupposed wickedness of Sonja, Carlmar dangerous environment. 26 Feb–10 Mar
instead critiques Erik’s fragile masculinity, while In Gone Too Far! (2013) Destiny Ekaragha’s See page 7 for details
empathising with his plight, creating a hugely hilarious comedy set in South London, Peckham
enjoyable male melodrama with a Nordic noir teenager Yemi’s street-cred takes a hit when his Masculinities: Liberation through
twist,’ says Davidson. eccentric Nigerian brother, Iku, comes to visit. Photography
20 Feb–17 May
Each of the films in Her Lens, His Story feature ‘Despite its playful use of caricature and See page 11 for details
complex, revealing and often provocative moments of slapstick, Bola Agbaje’s script, Part of Inside Out
takes on men and masculinity. The men in based on her play, is packed with sharp wit as
these films may not be heroes, but nor are they she affectionately sends up masculine clichés,
crude villains. showing us bravado unsuccessfully covering
In war films we’re familiar with machismo insecurity,’ Davidson says. ‘She also depicts the
and derring-do, but Soviet filmmaker Larisa complexities of the characters’ attitudes towards

5 barbican.org.uk
 March 2020
6
now soon always

Edith Carlmar on set. ©National Library of Norway

now
Cinema

Fri 27 Mar
The Perfect Candidate #
This Saudi Arabian drama follows a
determined young doctor as she runs in
the local city elections, but her family and
community struggle to accept their town’s first
female candidate. (£12*)

Special events
and seasons
26 Feb –10 Mar, Cinema 1&3
Her Lens, His Story: Female
Directors and Masculinities
Part of Inside Out
Our programme exploring complex and often
provocative takes on men and masculinity by
female directors continues, with features by Edith
Carlmar, Larisa Shepitko, Anahi Berneri, Destiny
Ekaragha and Shahrbanoo Sadat. (£12*)

Tue 10 Mar 8.35pm, Cinema 3

Death is a Caress, Part of Her Lens, His Story
Nick Mason's Saucerful
Fri 13 Mar
of Secrets: Live at the
New releases Bacurau18 Roundhouse
Please note the New Release Nick Mason, the only constant member of
After the death of her grandmother, Teresa legendary rock band Pink Floyd, brings his
schedule is subject to change. comes home to her matriarchal village in supergroup to the Roundhouse. Mason returns
futuristic Brazil to find a succession of sinister to the Pink Floyd’s earliest records giving fans an
Fri 6 Mar events. Winner of the Jury Prize at Cannes 2019. electrifying performance. (£15*)
(£12*)
Toni Morrison:
The Pieces I Am# Fri 20 Mar
Wed 11 Mar 6.30pm, Cinema 1
In this documentary author Toni Morrison leads The TruthPG Cunningham# + ScreenTalk
a group of her peers, critics and colleagues on with director Alla Kovgan
an exploration of race, history, America and the Starring Ethan Hawke, Juliette Binoche and
human condition. (£12*) Catherine Deneuve, this drama explores Following the screening of documentary,
a stormy reunion between an actress and Cunningham, director Alla Kovgan and special
her daughter after the actress publishes her guests join us for a Q&A to discuss the artistic
Fri 13 Mar memoirs. (£12*) evolution of Merce Cunningham.
Cunningham#
Director Alla Kovgan charts the work of icon Fri 27 Mar
Merce Cunningham and the last generation of Mulan#
his dance company in this documentary, through
recreations of his landmark works and archival A stunning live-action reimagining of the Disney
footage. (£12*) classic. To saver her ailing father from serving
in the Imperial Army, a fearless Mulan disguises
herself as a man to take his place. (£12*)

For programme information Details of prices are available online. Barbican Members receive 20% off, Business Members
and dates and times of new release receive 25% off. Join Young Barbican and get tickets to new releases for just £5, £10 or £15
films visit barbican.org.uk *Booking Fees: 60p per online transaction, 70p by phone. No fee in person.

7 barbican.org.uk
 now soon always

12–20 Mar, Cinema 1, 2 & 3 Thu 12 Mar 2pm, Cinema 2

Human Rights Watch Stage Russia:
Film Festival The Brothers Karamazov 12A Families
Celebrating diversity of stories and perspective Afternoon Arts
through film, the festival presents a new collection The Brothers Karamazov novel is the epitome of Every Saturday 11am, Cinema 2
of international films engaging with human Fyodor Dostoevsky’s creative work, the acme of Family Film Club
rights, followed by conversations highlighting the philosophic investigation carried out by this
experiences usually silenced or marginalized. March’s films will look at inner worlds and
colossal and restless mind throughout his life. dreamscapes as part of Inside Out. Don’t
(£10.50*) forget to come along for our special Show &
Sat 28–29 Mar Tell at the beginning of the month and on the
Chronic Youth Film Festival Sat 14 Mar 4.55pm, Cinema 1 last Saturday in March we’ll be hosting our
Curated by the Barbican Young Programmers, Der Fliegende Holländer 12A* usual free pre-film workshop at 10am. (£2.50-
this selection of films tackles the theme of ‘chronic 3.50*)
Met Opera Live
youth’ from all angles. Featuring UK premieres, Parent and Baby Screenings
rare archive gems and exciting new voices. (£12*). Sir Bryn Terfel returns to the Met for the first
time since 2012 as the mysterious seafarer Enjoy the best new films every Monday and
searching for salvation in this co-production with Saturday morning with your little ones of twelve
Tue 31 Mar 7pm, Cinema 1 L’Opéra de Québec and Dutch National Opera months and under, at our specially tailored
Into Great SilenceU Amsterdam. (£37*) screenings. (£6*)
Architecture on Film Sign up to the mailing list at
Philip Gröning‘s documentary observes Sun 22 Mar 2pm, Cinema 3 barbican.org.uk/parentandbaby
the ascetic Carthusian order of the Grande Fidelio 12A*
Chartreuse monastery in the French Alps. A truly Royal Opera House Live
transcendent film that more than depicting a
monastery, becomes a monastery itself. (£12*) Beethoven’s only opera is a masterpiece, an
uplifting story of risk and triumph. In this new
Information
production, conducted by Antonio Pappano Relaxed Screenings
Event Cinema and Jonas Kaufmann as the political prisoner
Florestan. (£21*)
One Friday afternoon and one Tuesday
evening in every month, we screen a film in
a specially tailored environment for adults
Sun 1 Mar 2pm, Cinema 3 Thu 26 Mar 2pm, Cinema 2 who may be on the autistic spectrum, have
The Cellist/Dances Exhibition on Screen: Lucian Tourette's, anxiety, sensory or other learning
difficulties. A companion or carer may attend
at a Gathering 12A* Freud: A Self Portrait # for free. (£7*)
Royal Opera House Live Afternoon Arts
Choreographer Cathy Marston’s inspiration This compelling film reveals the life and work
for this piece is the life and career of the cellist of a modern master though a unique exhibition
Jacqueline du Pré. A new work by Liam Scarlett of his self-portraits. His unflinching gaze has
provides the second part of the programme. produced a body of powerful and figurative
(£21*) works. (£10.50*)

Most new releases have a captioned and audio-described screenings.

There are also two relaxed screenings every month. See online for details

March 2020 8
now
Classical Music

Sat 7 Mar 2.30pm

LSO Discovery Family Concert:
How to Build an Orchestra
When it comes to making music, there’s nothing
like an orchestra. Learn how instruments come
together and create on-stage magic. Suitable
for 7- to 12-year-olds. (£10–16*)

Sun 8 Mar 7pm

LSO/Canellakis
Conductor Karina Canellakis debuts with
the LSO in a programme including Ravel’s
La valse, Richard Strauss’s tone poem Death
and Transfiguration and Cédric Tiberghien
playing Ravel’s G Major Piano Concerto.
(£16–57*)

Tue 10 Mar 7.30pm

Bach Collegium Japan: St
John Passion
Elizabeth Llewellyn © Shirley Suarez
There’s no mightier spiritual or artistic challenge
than Bach’s St John Passion – and few living
All concerts take place in the Barbican Hall Wed 4 Mar 6pm, St Giles' Cripplegate performers are better-equipped to tackle it than
unless otherwise stated Masaaki Suzuki and his Bach Collegium Japan.
BBC Singers at Six (£15–56*)
Sun 1 Mar 7pm Step into the strange, wonderful, bizarre and
utterly individual world of Gerald Barry as the
LSO: Symphonic Gospel Spirit BBC Singers present recent works from the cult
Wed 11 Mar 7.30pm
André J Thomas conducts the London composer. (£10*) Guildhall Symphony
Symphony Orchestra in soulful arrangements Orchestra
of traditional spirituals and classical standards Wed 4 Mar 7.30pm
given a gospel twist. (£16–57*) Guildhall School
BBC Symphony Orchestra: Sought-after Spanish conductor and Guildhall
Until 2 Mar, Silk Street Theatre Missa Solemnis alumnus Roberto González-Monjas directs
Prokofiev's Piano Concerto No 3, featuring
The Angel Esmeralda Beethoven’s musical vision of the divine is
Guildhall pianist Ryan Drucker as soloist,
unleashed by the forces of the BBC Symphony
Guildhall School Orchestra, Chorus and vocal soloists including alongside Rachmaninov’s enduringly popular
The world premiere of a new opera Elizabeth Llewellyn in an intense and uplifting Symphony No 2. (£10–15*)
commissioned by Scottish Opera, based on live concert experience. (£12–40*)
Don DeLillo’s captivating short story, with Thu 12 Mar 7.30pm
music composed by Guildhall alumnus Lliam Fri 6 Mar 12.30pm, LSO St Luke’s LSO/Mälkki
Paterson. (£25*)
LSO Discovery Free Friday Susanna Mälkki conducts music inspired by
Mon 2 Mar 8.30pm Lunchtime Concert light, the sea and folklore, with Debussy’s
La mer, Gil Shaham in Dvořák’s Violin Concerto
Fazıl Say in recital From Russia with Love: Rachel Leach presents and Laterna Magica by Finnish composer Kaija
an informal, 45-minute concert of Russian Saariaho. (£16–57*)
The pianist who Aribert Reimann said ‘plays like chamber music performed by LSO musicians.
a devil’ aims straight for the heart with Chopin’s (Free)
Noctures and Beethoven’s Appassionata, plus
his own homage to Homer’s Iliad. (£35–90*)

Visit our website for full programme information, including concerts from the Barbican Presents series, London
Symphony Orchestra and our other associate orchestras, or contact the Box Office to be posted our current Resident
Classical Music brochure. Orchestra

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 now soon always

Fri 13 Mar 7.30pm Thu 19 Mar 7.30pm, Milton Court Thu 26 Mar 10am–1.30pm & 2.30–6pm,
BBC Symphony Orchestra/ Academy of Ancient Music: LSO St Luke’s
Gardner Handel’s Heroines LSO Panufnik Composers
The searing power and extreme emotions Sparkling sopranos Mary Bevan and Jennifer
Workshop
of musical Romanticism’s last stand are France roam through extracts from some of A pivotal point in the composition of new
exemplified by Schoenberg and Fried’s Handel’s best-loved operas and oratorios, with orchestral music as the LSO works with young
responses to Verklärte Nacht, a poem on love’s Laurence Cummings directing AAM with his composers Caroline Bordignon, James Chan,
power to transform and transcend. (£12–40*) unmistakable flair and zest. (£15–35*) Joe Bates, Jonathan Woolgar, Louise Drewett
and Ninfea Cruttwell-Reade. (Free)
Sun 15 Mar 7pm 19–24 Mar 7pm, Milton Court Studio Theatre
LSO/Pappano: British Roots Opera Scenes Thu 26 Mar 7.30pm, Milton Court
Sir Antonio conducts Vaughan Williams’s Guildhall School
Britten Sinfonia: Curlew River
Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis, Benjamin Britten’s church parable is a truly
Outstanding singers and repetiteurs from the
Symphony No 6 and Britten’s Violin Concerto striking work inspired by Japanese Noh theatre.
first year of the Guildhall School Opera Course
played by Vilde Frang – responses to a country Ian Bostridge heads a starry cast alongside
perform classical and contemporary operatic
changed by war. (£16–57*) Britten Sinfonia Voices and musicians. (£15–35*)
excerpts with piano accompaniment. (£10*)
Tue 17 Mar 7pm Fri 27 Mar 7.30pm
Fri 20 Mar 12.30pm, LSO St Luke’s
Westminster School: LSO Discovery Free Friday BBC SO/Chauhan
Beethoven & Duruflé Lunchtime Concert In his BBC SO Barbican debut, Alpesh
Westminster School and The Westminster Chauhan brings us the terror and tenderness of
From Russia with Love: enjoy a free, informal Bruckner’s unfinished final symphony, preceded
Choral Society are joined by the Tri-Borough
lunchtime concert introduced by Rachel Leach, by Mozart and a playful world premiere by
Music Hub and the Pimlico Music Foundation
featuring Russian chamber music performed by Richard Baker. (£12–40*)
to perform Beethoven’s Mass in C alongside
LSO musicians. (Free)
Duruflé’s sensuous Requiem. (£17–22*)
Sun 29 Mar 7pm
Sun 22 Mar 10am–5pm, Hall & LSO St Luke’s
Wed 18 Mar 6.30pm LSO/Elder
LSO Half Six Fix: Bartók LSO Discovery Day: Dukas
Sir Mark Elder conducts Sibelius’s stark
Attend a morning rehearsal followed by an and brooding Fourth Symphony and Elgar’s
In this relaxed, interval-free concert, François-
afternoon of talks and chamber music by Violin Concerto – a work with a deep
Xavier Roth presents works that show Bartók's
Parisian composer Paul Dukas, admired for his connection to both orchestra and soloist
love of folk music and storytelling: his electric
unique musical imagination and painterly flair Nikolaj Szeps-Znaider. (£16–57*)
Dance Suite and the one-act ballet The Wooden
for orchestration. (£22*)
Prince. (£12–37*)
Tue 31 Mar 7.30pm
Sun 22 Mar 7pm
Wed 18 Mar 7.30pm, Milton Court Yuja Wang in recital
Alison Balsom plays LSO/Roth: Dukas
One of the most exciting pianists of our time,
Sketches of Spain Dukas’s inventive depiction of The Sorcerer’s this solo recital ranges from the timeless clarity
Apprentice, made famous by Disney’s of J S Bach to the visionary late-romanticism of
Trumpeter Alison Balsom and Guildhall Jazz Fantasia, kicks off a programme of dazzlingly Berg and Scriabin. (£15–66*)
Orchestra give their take on Miles Davis’s orchestrated music by the French composer.
ground-breaking Sketches of Spain, a moody (£16–57*)
concept album with a heady atmosphere that is Tue 31 Mar 7.30pm, Milton Court
still fresh today. (£15–31*) Mon 23 Mar 7.30pm
Scottish Ensemble and
Music for Youth presents: The Dunedin Consort: MacMillan’s
Thu 19 Mar 7.30pm Seven Last Words
LSO/Roth Future is Now
Works for voices and string orchestra are woven
Music for Youth kick off their 50th birthday
Isabelle Faust performs Stravinsky’s Violin together to create a journey through music old
celebrations with an evening of fresh, cross-
Concerto, before François-Xavier Roth conducts and new, culminating in James MacMillan’s
genre performances, showcasing the diversity
The Wooden Prince, a ballet showing Bartók's astonishing setting of the dying words of Christ.
of music from young emerging talent in the UK.
gentler side, inspired by folk traditions that were (£12–25*)
(£10–25*)
his life-long fascination. (£16–57*)

For full programme information, Details of prices are available online. Barbican Members and Business Members enjoy discounts on
including artist line ups, please selected events. Join Young Barbican and get tickets for selected events for just £5, £10 or £15
visit barbican.org.uk *Booking Fees: £3 per online transaction, £4 by phone. No fee in person. Some events have reduced booking fees

March 2020 10
now
Art & Design

Until Sun 17 May, Art Gallery§

Masculinities:
Liberation through
Photography
Explore how central photography and film have
been to the way masculinities are imagined and
understood in contemporary culture in this timely
exhibition, bringing together international artists,
photographers and filmmakers. (£15/17)

Thu 5 Mar 6.30pm, Art Gallery

Feminists Look at Masculinity
Feminist Duration Reading Group invites
feminists of all genders and generations
to reflect on resistant representations of
masculinity in a participatory event involving
discussion and live writing. (£15*)

Thu 12 Mar 7pm, Frobisher Auditorium 1

Black Masculinities:
Mandem Don’t Cry
MANDEM present an insightful panel discussion
on how modern masculinity is experienced,
performed, constructed and expressed by black
men in the UK. (£8*)

Tue 17 Mar 7pm, Venue TBC

How Do We Build
a New Masculinity?
Are we moving to a new masculinity as a
culture? Join us for a panel discussion with
artist Sunil Gupta, authors CN Lester and Tom
Shakespeare and curator Alona Pardo. (£10*) Catherine Opie, Rusty, 2008 © Catherine Opie, Courtesy Regen Projects, Los Angeles and Thomas Dane Gallery, London.

Thu 26 Mar, 7pm, Frobisher Auditorium 2

26 Mar–26 Jul, The Curve Tue 3 Mar 7pm, Frobisher Auditorium 1
Anna Fox and Karen Knorr In-
Afterparti*
Conversation Toyin Ojih Odutola: Architecture on Stage
Join photographers Anna Fox and Karen Knorr
in a discussion exploring the aesthetic questions A Countervailing “Architecture-infused” collective Afterparti*
and socio-political issues brought to bear by
two important series of work presented in the Theory – whose founders met through the New
Architecture Writers programme for young
exhibition, Knorr’s Gentlemen (1981–83) and Enter into Ojih Odutola’s first-ever UK exhibition, BAME design critics - explore how ideas of
Fox’s My Mother’s Cupboards and My Father’s an epic cycle of new work unravelling an power manipulate architecture today.
Words (2000). imagined ancient myth, drawing on an eclectic
range of references from history to popular
culture. (Free)

For full programme information, Full details of prices are available online. Barbican Members and Business Members enjoy discounts
including opening times, please on selected events. Join Young Barbican and get tickets for selected events for just £5, £10 or £15
visit barbican.org.uk *Booking Fees: £3 per online transaction, £4 by phone. No fee in person. Some events have reduced booking fees

11 barbican.org.uk
 now soon always

Cine-succes
One of our Young Programmers alumni tells us how the
programme has benefitted their career, ahead of the 5th
Chronic Youth Film Festival.

experience was the collaborative aspect of

the course. For the most part I work in a quite
solitary manner and so being thrust into a
group situation was a good change.
I really enjoyed working on ideas raised by
my YP colleagues learning to work with others
towards a common creative goal was a great
opportunity for me.
‘In many respects the course gave me purpose,
a framework around which I could get much
of my “career” on track. Getting to learn both
theoretically and practically how a film festival
is conceived and produced was fascinating
and something I'd never had the opportunity
to experience before. I feel as if much of my
cynicism was dispelled during those seven
months - I left with more optimism and a little
less self-doubt.’
The YP scheme is just one of a range of talent
development opportunities we offer young
people through Barbican Guildhall Creative
Learning. Other programmes include the
Young Visual Arts Group, Young Poets and
Young Curators. To find out more about
Curated and delivered by our Young currently a YP at the Barbican. This job has how to apply see barbican.org.uk/take-
Programmers (YP) – a group of around 15 film found me, for the first time, in a stable financial part. We need to raise £2 million from our
enthusiasts aged 16-25 – the Chronic Youth position giving me the freedom to work on supporters each year to deliver our innovative
Film Festival features Q&As, new works, an whatever I like. For this I am eternally grateful learning programmes. See barbican.org.uk/
open submission shorts programme, and a for being a part of the YP group.’ supporterappeal for details.
showcase of British archive films covering topics He says he found it particularly interesting to
that highlight issues facing young people today. learn how films are selected and categorised, Chronic Youth Film Festival
It’s the culmination of a seven-month course how programmers curate themes and tie 28–29 Mar
led by experienced curator Suzy Gillett and stories together, adding ‘but the most valuable See page 8 for details
industry guests, during which the cinema
enthusiasts learn exactly what it takes to create
such an event, from selecting films and securing
rights, to marketing and organising guest
speakers.
The scheme can be a springboard into a
career in the creative industries. Rory Flynn was
one of the 2018 cohort. He’s currently working
for south London arts and community centre
Beckenham Place Mansion, where he helps
with the management and programming of
content from exhibitions to workshops. He’s
also writing a film.
‘Being a part of the YP was an unparalleled
asset,’ he says. ‘In pragmatic terms I got a job
off the back of it. I’d never previously worked
in an event capacity, in a job where I'd have
to think about targeting an audience. The only
experience I had going into the interview for
my job at Beckenham Mansion was that I was Chronic Youth

March 2020 12
now
Theatre & Dance

20–25 Mar, Silk Street Theatre

Antigone
Guildhall School
This epic and lyrical reimagining of the
classic Greek tragedy mixes ancient legend
The big question
with modern perspective. A world premiere
by Olivier Award-winning writer Stef Smith, Ballet Black’s Mthuthuzeli November tells us he’s
directed by Orla O'Loughlin. (£10*) been contemplating the purpose of life in his latest
4–7 Mar, Theatre work, The Waiting Game.
Cheek by Jowl/Piccolo
Inspired by Ravel’s Bolero, which November This will be the second of November’s work
Teatro di Milano says has ‘a sense of progress – it takes you being performed here, following Ingoma
The Revenger’s Tragedy from one place to another’, this new work was in March last year. ‘In a way this still doesn’t
Intrigue, corruption, lust and the thirst for born out of an interest in the idea of waiting. feel quite real,’ he says. ‘Doing Ingoma
power collide as The Revenger’s Tragedy is ‘The more it developed, the more I decided was nerve-wracking because it was a big
transformed into a macabre dance of death to focus a bit more about what it means or responsibility and it was my first work in the
in Cheek by Jowl’s first Italian language show. what it feels like to be waiting for something’ UK. This feels similar – it’s quite daunting. I’m
(£16-45*) he says. ‘I wanted to explore questions such not comfortable with this idea yet and I like
as: “what is our purpose in life, and what are that. I think artists create their best work when
we waiting for?”’ they’re pushed to the limits.’
26–29 Mar, Theatre
Ballet Black It’s a weighty but universal topic that most Ballet Black: Mixed Bill
Mixed Bill people will have contemplated at some point, 26-29 Mar
and November admits became personal See left for details
Dance so thrilling, imaginative and rich that as he delved more into the topic. ‘It says
it packs our auditorium every time. Expect something to me, but it says something about
sensational solos, seductive duos and fiercely people in general. At some point everyone
dynamic pieces as this extraordinary company looks at what they’re doing in life and wonders
lead the way in celebrating black and Asian about the reasons why they are doing that. In
dancers in ballet. (£16-30*) my practice I frequently ask myself about the
reasons I’m doing something.’
31 Mar–9 Apr, The Pit
Breach
It’s True, It’s True, It’s True
This award-winning dramatisation of a 1612
rape trial interweaves jaw-dropping court
transcripts with history, myth, contemporary
insight and moments of satire to ask: how much
has really changed? (£18*)

Ballet Black © Rick Guest

Relaxed performances available Full details of prices are available online. Barbican Members and Business Members enjoy discounts
– see online for details on selected events. Join Young Barbican and get tickets for selected events for just £5, £10 or £15
barbican.org.uk *Booking Fees: £3 per online transaction, £4 by phone. No fee in person. Some events have reduced booking fees

13 barbican.org.uk
 now soon always

Contemporary With thanks

The City of London Corporation,
founder and principal funder

Music Centre Partner

Christie Digital

Major Supporters
Arts Council England
Esmeé Fairbairn Foundation
Sir Siegmund Warburg’s Voluntary Settlement
Sat 14 Mar 8pm The National Lottery Heritage Fund
King Creosote: From Scotland Terra Foundation for American Art
UBS
With Love Wellcome
Kenny Anderson performs his audio-visual
love letter to Scotland and its people, featuring Business Supporters
archival footage of every-day life from war Aberdeen Standard Investments
to play. (£20–35*) Allford Hall Monaghan Morris
Audible
Mon 16 Mar 8pm Bank of America Merrill Lynch
Bloomberg
Chick Corea Trilogy Calvin Klein
A meeting of jazz masters: pianist Chick Corea CMS
performs with rhythm section powerhouses Crédit Agricole
Christian McBride on bass and drummer Brian DLA Piper
Blade. (£35–45*) Howden M&A Limited
Leigh Day
Tue 24 Mar 7.30pm Linklaters LLP
The Lark Ascending: People, National Australia Bank
Natrium Capital Limited
Music, Landscape Newgate Communications
Richard King’s book The Lark Ascending is Pinsent Masons
Missy Mazzoli © Caroline Tompkins re-told through a seamless blend of music, Reed Smith
visuals, spoken word and dance featuring Slaughter and May
Arthur Jeffes, Vashti Bunyan and Andrew Taittinger Champagne
All concerts take place in the Barbican Hall
Weatherall. (£17–22.50*) tp bennett
unless otherwise stated
UBS
Wed 25 Mar 7.30pm, Milton Court
Fri 6 Mar 7.30pm, Milton Court The Great British Songbook: Trusts & Grantmakers
Kelly Moran & Missy Mazzoli The Beatles Reimagined
Edge Foundation
Jonathan Ruffer Curatorial Research Grant from
Warp artist Kelly Moran and Grammy- Guildhall School the Art Fund
nominated composer Missy Mazzoli collaborate
– in a UK performance premiere of a new piece Guildhall Studio Orchestra draws upon the We also want to thank the Barbican Patrons,
for two pianos – alongside performances of legacy of Lennon and McCartney in an evening donors to Name a Seat and those who
their own music. (£20*) of music arranged by Guildhall’s Head of Jazz, contribute to the Barbican Fund.
Malcolm Edmonstone. (£15*)
Fri 6 Mar 8pm If you’re interested in supporting the Barbican
Sat 28 Mar 7pm
Patrick Watson Centre Trust, visit barbican.org.uk/supportus,
Patrick Watson’s shimmering falsetto swoons
Richard Dawson: Delight or contact us on 0207 382 6185 or
above intricate orchestration as he introduces us Is Right [email protected].
to his latest record, Wave. (£20–25*) Northumbrian songsmith Richard Dawson invites The Barbican Centre Trust, registered charity no. 294282
you to this gathering of friends, favourites and
Mon 9 Mar 7.30pm fellow travellers across two stages, culminating in
Brad Mehldau Trio a full band set in the Hall. (£17.50–25*)
Performing with his longtime trio featuring Mon 30 Mar 8pm
bassist Larry Grenadier and Jeff Ballard on
drums, pianist Brad Mehldau continues to Gal Costa: A Pele do Futuro
push the paradigms of jazz and classical Gal Costa celebrates over half a century in
performance. (£25–40*) music with songs from across her career,
performing tracks from her new live album
A Pele do Futuro. (£30–85*)

For full programme information, Details of prices are available online. Barbican Members receive 20% off, Business Members
including artist line ups, please receive 25% off selected events. Join Young Barbican and get tickets for just £5, £10 or £15
visit barbican.org.uk *Booking Fees: £3 per online transaction, £4 by phone. No fee in person.

March 2020 14
soon

Michael Clark, New Puritans, 1984. Choreography: Michael Clark © Photography by Richard Houghton

12 Jun–30 Aug, Art Gallery

Michael Clark
This unprecedented presentation of choreographer and dancer, Michael Clark, establishes his radical presence in British cultural history and explores his
inimitable combination of classical and contemporary influences. Material from Clark’s practice are presented together with his legendary collaborations
across visual arts, music, fashion and film with artists such as Sarah Lucas, Leigh Bowery, Charles Atlas and the Fall. Looking back to his meteoric rise as a
young choreographer in the 1980s, the exhibition presents a comprehensive vision of Clark’s career to date, with 2020 marking the 15th year of Michael
Clark Company’s ongoing collaboration with the Barbican as an Artistic Associate.

15 barbican.org.uk
 now soon always

Pam Tanowitz Dance, New Work for Goldberg Variations © Marina Levitskaya

6–9 May, Theatre 17–18 Jul, Lloyd Park

Pam Tanowitz Dance: Walthamstow Garden Party
New Work for Goldberg Variations The award-winning two-day festival returns to Lloyd Park for the seventh
The renowned choreographer directs seven dancers in a performance of year this summer. With over 30,000 people attending every year, it is
Bach’s masterpiece, played live by pianist Simone Dinnerstein. Revolving organised by hundreds of residents, local businesses and local
around a grand piano, the dancers demonstrate the rich emotional world community groups, making it a unique weekend bursting with creativity,
lying beneath the Goldberg Variations, their dynamic stage presence art, culture and community that celebrates collaboration, partnership
spontaneous yet exact, fluid yet intricate. In this unpredictable and witty and local heroes.
interplay of rhythm, style and poetry, everything emanates from the score,
the action illuminated by a shifting palette of colour and light.

Marsalis Wynton © Piper Ferguson Lucy Crowe © Marco Borggreve

30–31 May, Hall 25 Apr, Hall

Wynton Marsalis’s The Jungle Handel’s Rodelinda
Blending jazz, blues and classical music, Wynton Marsalis comes to Lucy Crowe and Iestyn Davies head a star cast befitting Handel’s 1725
London with our international associates, his Jazz at the Lincoln Center hit opera, performed by The English Concert. The third opera the
Orchestra for a collaboration with Sir Simon Rattle and the London composer wrote in a 12-month period, it originally featured the dream
Symphony Orchestra. Here in its European premiere, The Jungle is pairing of the castrato Senesino and soprano Francesca Cuzzoni – two
Marsalis’s homage to New York City – the place he has called home of the greatest voices of the time. Today’s cast would no doubt have met
since 1979. Its six movements span the history of the city from the Native Handel’s approval.
American tribes that lived on the land to the fast-paced place we
know today. Encompassing swinging movements, flavours of ragtime
and popular dance, blues-tinged moments and jazz chords, it is an
intoxicating and heady blurring of cultures, sounds and identities.

March 2020 16
always
My Barbican:
Chloe Austin
The Curatorial Trainee at the Barbican shares
her favourite places around the Centre.

Bold and bright

Barbican
Incorporating shapes devised by Barbican
architects Chamberlin, Powell and Bon, this
striking range by Radical Studio is available
in our Shop on Level G. From the distinctive
balconies of Cromwell Tower to the arch-shaped
ventilation ducts, these eye-catching items are
a chance to show off your love of the estate’s
famous architecture.

Plants hanging from balconies

Catalogue Library Dolphin Water Fountain

Our art gallery meeting room contains the This fountain always makes me laugh. It’s so out
gallery’s catalogue collection going back to of keeping with the rest of the estate and a little
1982. Whenever we produce a catalogue, we bit mysterious as no one could tell me where it
keep a few to go into the collection, it’s been came from. After seeing a matching pair in a
a great resource for me while researching the garden on the estate I realised that they were
history of the Barbican for a project and a real probably installed by residents. This theory
insight into how the gallery has changed over was further backed up the residents’ Instagram
the years. It’s also an inspirational backdrop for account (@hellobarbican), according to which
meetings and lunches. the dolphins were installed in the late 1990s to
‘soften’ the area.

Rogue Plants
Another resident revolt. Apparently, there was a
rule that only red carnations could be planted
on the estate’s balconies. Thankfully, this rule is
openly flouted, allowing for a varied array of
plant life. There’s particularly luscious foliage
around the Gilbert Bridge High Walk.
New Perspectives
Ben Jonson House is reflected in the rear of the
buildings of Frobisher Crescent as captured by
(@londondapper) on Instagram. Like them,
you can discover the secrets of the estate and its
creation by architects Chamberlin, Powell and
Bon, on one of our tours. Uncover the concepts
behind one of the posterchilds of Brutalism with
our expert guides, who’ll show you the area in a
level of detail you never knew. Book at
barbican.org.uk/tours
The dolphin water fountain

17 barbican.org.uk
 now soon always

G
Playing the
democracy game
Visit Level G this month and you’ll discover a
fun, interactive game. But there are serious
questions at its heart. Always open
Always free
Everyone’s journey starts on
Level G, where you can relax,
meet, eat and enjoy our iconic
building. Our Level G
programme offers free
installations and events in our
public spaces, all year round.
This month
Credit: Ling Tan
Squish Space
Various dates, 10am-4pm
Artist Ling Tan has created a giant multiplayer an interactive, engaging manner, so this is an A sensory launch pad for children
game of Pong, projected onto a wall. experiment in social structure. under five and their families to play,
Participants can modify the rules, which are touch and think with tactile objects.
‘It’s about having fun but it’s also asking people
based on the principles of democracy: fairness, to consider that if you tweak the levers, could Big Barbican Adventure
freedom and equality. They can choose to you imagine a different type of social structure Explore the Barbican in this do-it-yourself
cooperate, collaborate with each other on the working? A lot of the time we talk about being adventure trail for families. Maps available
opposite side or even violate the rules, which in a democratic society, but at this point in time I from the Tickets & Information Desk.
causes the game to fall apart. don’t see that democracy is playing out in the UK Playing Democracy by Ling Tan
‘The idea of play is inherent in how we interact and Western society. It will be interesting to get Until 31 May
with each other,’ she says. ‘I’m interested in people to think about what constitutes structure.’ Question the social structures that shape
how play translates into social structure. As The work was commissioned by the Lumen Prize, the way in which we live our lives through
citizens we interact with other people, with the which celebrates the very best art created with social play in this interactive installation.
government and the built environment. I wanted technology.
to find a way we could play with democracy in Toyin Ojih Odutola:
A Countervailing Theory
26 Mar–26 Jul, The Curve
Presenting the first-ever UK exhibition by
Nigerian-American artist Toyin Ojih Odutola,
Synth dreams this epic cycle of new work will explore an
imagined ancient myth.
Discover the role London played in the
breakthrough of pioneering electronic music Pick up a guide to the
group Tangerine Dream at a special exhibition Barbican and our Level G
dedicated to the band. Through uncovered programme from the Ticket
photographs and videos, original synthesizers,
cassettes and vinyl, this exhibition delves into 50 Desk inside the shop
years of music-making.
Tangerine Dream: Zeitraffer
Until 2 May
Barbican Library

March 2020 18
calendar
Mar 2020
Throughout Mar Sat 21 Mar
Masculinities: Liberation through Photography Art Gallery £15/17 11 11am Family Film Club Cinema 2 £2.50–3.50* 8
Sun–Wed 10am–6pm, Thu–Sat 10am–9pm 7.30pm Antigone Silk Street Theatre £10* 13

Sun 1 Mar event venue tickets page Sun 22 Mar

2pm Royal Opera House Live: Cinema 3 £21* 8 10am–5pm LSO Discovery Day: Dukas Hall & LSO St Luke’s £22* 10
The Cellist/Dances at a Gathering 2pm Royal Opera House Live: Fidelio Cinema 3 £21* 8
3pm Her Lens, His Story: Death is a Caress + Introduction Cinema 1 £12* 7 7pm LSO/Roth: Dukas Hall £16–57* 10
7pm LSO: Symphonic Gospel Spirit Hall £16–57* 9
Mon 23 Mar
Mon 2 Mar 7pm Guildhall School Opera Scenes Milton Court Studio Theatre £10* 10
7pm The Angel Esmeralda Silk Street Theatre £25* 9 7.30pm Music for Youth presents: The Future is Now Hall £10–25* 10
8.30pm Fazıl Say in recital Hall £35–90* 9 7.30pm Antigone Silk Street Theatre £10* 13

Tue 3 Mar Tue 24 Mar

7pm Architecture on Stage: Afterparti* Frobisher Auditorium 1 £15* 11 2pm Antigone Silk Street Theatre £10* 13
7pm Guildhall School Opera Scenes Milton Court Studio Theatre £10* 10
Wed 4 Mar 7.30pm Antigone Silk Street Theatre £10* 13
6pm BBC Singers at Six St Giles’ Cripplegate £10* 9 7.30pm The Lark Ascending Hall £17–22.50* 14
6.20pm Her Lens, His Story: The Ascent + Introduction Cinema 3 £12* 7
7.30pm BBC Symphony Orchestra: Missa Solemnis Hall £12–40* 9 Wed 25 Mar
7.45pm Cheek by Jowl/Piccolo: The Revenger's Tragedy Theatre £16–45* 13 2pm Antigone Silk Street Theatre £10* 13
7.30pm The Great British Songbook Milton Court £15* 14
Thu 5 Mar 7.30pm Antigone Silk Street Theatre £10* 13
6.30pm Her Lens, His Story: A Year Without Love + Introduction Cinema 3 £12* 7
6.30pm Feminists Look at Masculinity Art Gallery £15 11 Thu 26 Mar
7.45pm Cheek by Jowl/Piccolo: The Revenger's Tragedy Theatre £16–45* 13 10am–6pm LSO Panufnik Composers Workshop LSO St Luke’s Free 10
11am–9pm Toyin Ojih Odutola: A Countervailing Theory The Curve Free 11
Fri 6 Mar 2pm Afternoon Arts – Lucian Freud: A Self Portrait Cinema 2 £10.50* 8
12.30pm LSO Discovery Free Friday Lunchtime Concert LSO St Luke’s Free 9 7.30pm Britten Sinfonia: Curlew River Milton Court £15–35* 10
7.30pm Kelly Moran & Missy Mazzoli Milton Court £20* 14 7.45pm Ballet Black: Mixed Bill Theatre £16–30* 13
7.45pm Cheek by Jowl/Piccolo: The Revenger's Tragedy Theatre £16–45* 13
8pm Patrick Watson Hall £20–25* 14 Fri 27 Mar
11am–9pm Toyin Ojih Odutola: A Countervailing Theory The Curve Free 11
Sat 7 Mar 7.30pm BBC SO/Chauhan Hall £12–40* 10
11am Family Film Club Cinema 2 £2.50–3.50* 8 7.45pm Ballet Black: Mixed Bill Theatre £16–30* 13
2.30pm LSO Discovery Family Concert Hall £10–16* 9
7.45pm Cheek by Jowl/Piccolo: The Revenger's Tragedy Theatre £16–45* 13 Sat 28 Mar
11am Family Film Club Cinema 2 £2.50–3.50* 8
Sun 8 Mar 11am–8pm Toyin Ojih Odutola: A Countervailing Theory The Curve Free 11
7pm LSO/Canellakis Hall £16–57* 9 7pm Richard Dawson: Delight is Right Hall £17.50–25* 14
7.45pm Ballet Black: Mixed Bill Theatre £16–30* 13
Mon 9 Mar
6.30pm Her Lens, His Story: Gone Too Far! + Introduction Cinema 3 £12* 7 Sun 29 Mar
7.30pm Brad Mehldau Trio Hall £25–40* 14 11am–8pm Toyin Ojih Odutola: A Countervailing Theory The Curve Free 11
7pm LSO/Elder Hall £16–57* 10
Tue 10 Mar 2.30pm Ballet Black: Mixed Bill Theatre £16–30* 13
6.30pm Her Lens, His Story: The Orphanage + Introduction Cinema 3 £12* 7
7.30pm Bach Collegium Japan: St John Passion Hall £15–56* 9 Mon 30 Mar
11am–8pm Toyin Ojih Odutola: A Countervailing Theory The Curve Free 11
Wed 11 Mar 8pm Gal Costa: A Pele do Futuro Hall £30–85* 14
6.30pm Cunningham + ScreenTalk Cinema 1 £# 7
7.30pm Guildhall Symphony Orchestra Hall £10–15* 9
Thu 12 Mar Tue 31 Mar
2pm Afternoon Arts: The Brothers Karamazov Cinema 2 £10.50* 8 11am–8pm Toyin Ojih Odutola: A Countervailing Theory The Curve Free 11
7pm Black Masculinities: Mandem Don’t Cry Frobisher Auditorium 1 £8* 11 7pm Architecture on Film: Into Great Silence Cinema 1 £12* 8
7.30pm LSO/Mälkki Hall £16–57* 9 7.30pm Scottish Ensemble and Dunedin Consort Milton Court £12–25* 10
7.30pm Yuja Wang in recital Hall £15–66* 10
Fri 13 Mar 7:45pm Breach: It's True, It's True, It's True Theatre £18* 13
7.30pm BBC SO/Gardner Hall £12–40* 10

Sat 14 Mar
11am Family Film Club Cinema 2 £2.50–3.50* 8
4.55pm Met Opera Live: Der Fliegende Holländer Cinema 1 £37* 8
8pm King Creosote Hall £20–35* 14

Sun 15 Mar
7pm LSO/Pappano: British Roots Hall £16–57* 10

Mon 16 Mar
8pm Chick Corea Trilogy Hall £35-45* 14

Tue 17 Mar
7pm Westminster School: Beethoven & Duruflé Hall £17–22* 10
7.30pm How Do We Build a New Masculinity? Frobisher Auditorium £10* 11

Wed 18 Mar
6.30pm LSO Half Six Fix Hall £12–37* 10
7.30pm Alison Balsom plays Sketches of Spain Milton Court £15–31* 10

Thu 19 Mar
7pm Guildhall School Opera Scenes Milton Court Studio Theatre £10* 10
7.30pm Academy of Ancient Music: Handel’s Heroines Milton Court £15–35* 10
7.30pm LSO/Roth Hall £16–57* 10

Fri 20 Mar
12.30pm LSO Discovery Free Friday Lunchtime Concert LSO St Luke’s Free 10
7pm Guildhall School Opera Scenes Milton Court Studio Theatre £10* 10
7.30pm Antigone Silk Street Theatre £10* 13

* Booking fees apply

†
This price span is inclusive of limited premium seats

Booking New release films Membership Young Barbican

Online booking with seat selection and On Wednesdays, new release film screenings Barbican Members get free entry to our art 14–25
reduced booking fee at barbican.org.uk are announced for the following week. gallery, priority booking across our programme
and enjoy discounted tickets to cinema Be there when it happens
By telephone 020 7638 8891 Visit our website or sign up to our email Get discounted tickets to unmissable art and
screenings and selected concerts, gigs and
newsletters to be the first to know about new entertainment
theatre shows (subject to availability) among
release films and additional special events.
many other benefits. Make it happen
To find out more visit Cultivate your creativity and join a growing
barbican.org.uk/membership network of young creatives
barbican.org.uk/youngbarbican
Booking
Online booking with seat selection and
reduced booking fee at barbican.org.uk
By telephone 0207 638 8891
In person
Barbican Centre
Silk Street, London
EC2Y 8DS
Stay in touch
For the latest on sale dates, special events and
news straight to your inbox, sign up to our email
list at barbican.org.uk