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21 top things to discover in May 2022 in London and Surrey

21 top things to discover in May 2022 in London and Surrey

Pictured: Mardi Gras at Thorpe Park

Theatre picks in London and Surrey in May 2022

1

We Will Rock You, New Wimbledon Theatre, 30 May – 4 June

24 of Queen’s biggest hits, plus some hilarious futuristic comedy – join 16 million theatergoers in 19 countries who have already seen this fantastically fun musical. Starring Olivier Award nominee Ian McIntosh.

Images credit: Johan Persson

2

New Writing Festival, Putney Arts Theatre, 3-7 May

Celebrate theatre and playwriting with the multitalented artists of Putney. Join in on the fun to meet emerging playwrights from all paths of life presenting their recent works.

3

Six, Rose Theatre, 17 May 2022 – 29 May

Divorced. Beheaded. LIVE! The smash-hit West End and Broadway musical comes to Kingston with a fabulous, diverse cast – head to the Rose for the tale of Henry VIII’s six wives, reimagined.  

4

Dreamgirls, New Wimbledon Theatre, 9-14 May

Direct from the West End comes this tale of three sisters on their road to fame and fortune in 1960s America. Featuring the hit songs One Night Only and Listen.

5

The Rocky Horror Show, Richmond Theatre, 23 – 28 May

Starring actor, presenter and Strictly winner Ore Oduba, the new production of this cult musical is heading to Richmond. Expect a true musical extravaganza with terrific performances from a stellar cast. 

Images credit: David Freeman

6

PETAL, Omnibus, 25-29 May

Petal, a contestant on the popular TV show, is on her sure way to success, but trolls come out of the woodwork to torment her into insanity. A new, fascinating play written by Susan Momoko Hingley and directed by Ragga Dahl Johansen. 

7

Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em, Richmond Theatre, 31 May – 4 June

Joe Pasquale hits the stage as Frank Spencer in this new production of the classic TV comedy from 1970s. Also starring Sarah Earnshaw and Susie Blake, this is bound to be a fabulous night out filled with comical misunderstandings, joy and mirth 

Images credit: Scott Rylander

8

Chicago New Victoria Woking, 2 – 7 May & New Wimbledon Theatre, 17 – 21 May

Chicago comes to Woking for one week only. Get excited for the dark story of murder, greed and corruption created by musical theatre legends John Kander, Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse. 

Outdoor fun in London and Surrey in May 2022

9

Mardi Gras at Thorpe Park, 19 May – 19 June

Head to Thorpe Park for New Orleans vibes, along with adrenaline pumping rides, authentic street food and a variety of live entertainment.

10

Surbiton Food Festival, 7 – 22 May

A fabulous celebration of food for all! Head to Surbiton to enjoy all the best it has to offer, from sardines to beer and everything in between. Plus, live music, breadmaking classes and special tasting sessions.

11

The British Iris Society Centenary Show, RHS Garden Wisley, 7 – 8 May

Enjoy the beauty of the iris! From growing and caring demonstrations to fascinating talks and lectures to gorgeous displays, Join the British Iris Society to celebrate their centenary.  

12

Ham Open Gardens 2022, 22 May

Go behind the garden wall – visit the most stunning private gardens around Ham Common for a fascinating journey reflecting the area’s history.

13

Dogfest, Loseley Park 7 – 8 May

The UK’s biggest fun-filled day for dog lovers is back – and coming to Loseley Park! Expect more than 150 stands, over 10 activities from flyball to dog diving, as well as food and drinks stalls serving up delicious pawsecco and pupaccinios (and there’s human food too)!

14

Tree ID and Bark Rubbing, Wimbledon Common Nature Club 

Wimbledon Common Nature Club welcomes children (6-14 year old) to discover the beauty of nature and make their very own little tree. The club meets at the Information Centre, Wimbledon Common, so do come along! 

Top concerts in London and Surrey in May 2022

15

Banstead Arts Festival, various locations, 30 April – 14 May

Many a wonderful concert in this year’s Festival: from Papagena – a five-voices, all-female ensemble that weaves together classical, medieval, folk and contemporary music from around the world – to Delphine Trio, presenting classical pieces with unusual combination of instruments…

Images: Papagena / Echea Quartet / Delphine Trio / Maxwell Quartet

16

Carnaby Army – Live Music, Hampton Hub Club, 14 May

Carnaby Army will be raising the roof in this unique concert tribute commemorating the best, from The Beatles to The Doors.

17

Music Around the Park – Pastorale, St Michael’s Community Centre, Barnes, 21 May

Gorgeous classical music in serene surroundings to nourish your soul, performed by three talented musicians: Ersilia Mikrou on harp, Stathis Karapanos on flute and Erik Fauss on viola.

Fabulous festivals and fairs in London and Surrey in May 2022

18

Reuse Revolution, 1-31 May

Take up the challenge and shop preloved! The British Heart Foundation is encouraging people to reconsider their shopping ways and opt for options that do not cost the Earth.  

19

The Artisan Festival, Hampton Court Palace, 13-15 May 

What do Henry VIII’s home, luxe shopping experience and copious amounts of delish foods and vintage tunes all have in common? Head to Hampton Court Palace mid-May to find out.  

20

London Craft Week, 9 – 15 May

With many exciting events happening across the capital – see the events in Fulham here – this is one not to miss for all craftsmanship aficionados out there. Learn the secrets of design, visit fascinating exhibitions and tune in for expert talks and lectures…

21

5 Day Gift Market, Bourne Hall, Ewell, 24 – 28 May

Gorgeous jewellery, amazing skincare, luxe handbags and more excellent unique gifts – head to Ewell to stock up on the best gifts for your family – or for yourself…