The Cultural Scene May - June

The Silk Road: A Living History

Until 16 June. Granary Square, Kings Cross, London N1. Travel photographer Christopher Wilton-Steer has created this outdoor exhibition based on his photo essays and travel writings that cover the historic link between Eurasia and Europe – the regions that are currently the focus of China's Belt and Road initiative. London's Aga Khan Foundation is hosting workshops and talks as part of this exhibition, as well as a Silk Road Bazaar in Kings Cross which will feature artisanal products imported by UK sellers from Syria and other countries situated along the route. More information here.

On Edward Said: Remembrance of Things Past

11 May. Online. Professor Hamid Dabashi, a colleague of the late world-renounced scholar, writer and Palestinian activist, offers a unique collection of reminiscences, travelogues and essays that document his relationship with Edward Said at Columbia University in New York. In this presentation, a panel of British and international academics will discuss Dabashi's comments in an event organised by the University of London's Goldsmith's College. Tickets can be purchased here.

Moroccan Sahara Restaurant

Delivery via Uber Eats. Bayswater W2. This family-run enterprise is a delicious choice for late evening takeways during Ramadan.  Starters include grilled halloumi with herb salad, fish borek and harira soup.  Main courses range from lamb and chicken tagines to couscous mergez and a vegetarian tagine khodra. Use this link to order.

Partridges Fine Food Markets

Saturdays, May - June, 10am - 4pm. Duke of York Square, Chelsea, SW3. The easing of lockdown restrictions has enabled the return of one of Chelsea's most favoured shopping sites. The market features some 70 stalls offering everything from Maldon oysters, handmade vegan temaki rolls and Tamrat dates from Saudi Arabia, to homemake kimchi, Arabica bean coffee and English speciality cakes and tarts. Inside the Square you'll find luxury boutiques, a wide variety of upmarket restaurants with outdoor tables, and an art gallery. Click here for more details.

Shubbak Festival 2021

20 June - 17 July. This biennial event, first held in 2011, is dedicated to the celebration of contemporary Arab arts in London. Past years have included everything from film, music and theatre to gallery openings, book talks, poetry readings in translation, and cartoon exhibitions. This year's schedule is expected to be announced during May, and may include live productions and performances, as well as special online offerings. There are also three current online events that are well worth taking in. Here are all the details.

Pamela Ann Smith

29 April 2021