London’s cultural scene is one of the most active in the world. It plays host to many cultural events, and one of these is considered to be the number one art event in the world – the City of London Festival.

From the 23^rd to the 26^th of June, the City of London Festival is held in various venues all over the capital. These venues, among them the Barbican Draper’s Hall, will transform London into a huge cultural extravaganza. Different art forms will be featured for the duration of the festival – from poetry, to music to visual arts, there is something for every single art lover.

The creators of the festival said: “The Festival exists to entertain and inspire the City's workers, residents and visitors with special events and world-class artists in beautiful surroundings, whilst providing unique opportunities for targeted business dialogue, community involvement, learning and participation.”

The festival organisers have done a wonderful job keeping to the spirit of the festival. Some of the festival highlights this year include: The City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra at St. Paul Cathedral on the 25^th June at 8PM and the acrobatic show How Like An Angel (25^th to 28^th June) at St. Bartholomew the Great.

The Director Ian Ritchie, along with his staff, decided to use three themes: City and Resolution, City Walls (connecting the City of London with Derry-Londonderry and other historic walled cities from Utrecht to Jerusalem) and Trees (sustaining the Festival’s artistic responses to the environment). Using these themes as a platform for creative expression and diversity, the Festival will reflect on significant historical landmark anniversaries, among these include the 400-year relationship between the City of London and Derry-Londonderry, the 300^th anniversary of the Treaty of Utrecht and the 100^th anniversary of Benjamin Britten, one of Britain’s most important composers.

It is time to book a ticket for these festival events. See you in London!

By: Derek Gallimore