Middle East Cultural Events in London

Here are some of the Middle East-related cultural events that will be happening in and around London over the next few weeks. The listing is curated by Pamela Ann Smith, who has been following the Middle East cultural scene for many years. 

Islamic and Arab Art History Course

12 May – 23 June, The Arab British Centre, EC4. This six-week course, held from 6 to 8 pm on Zoom, focuses on the history of carpet weaving in the Islamic world, looking at materials, patterns and trends as well as their patrons and places of manufacture. It is taught by Roberta Marin, who received her M.A. from London’s School of Oriental and African Studies following her travels to Cairo, Istanbul and Marrakesh. Further details can be found at here. 

Writing a Monotonous Chaos:  The Arab World in Fiction, Politics and Poetics

13 May, P21 Gallery, Chalton Street NW1. Jordanian author Hisham Bustani joins Atef Alsher to discuss his latest book, translated from the Arabic by Maia Tabet.  In it, he tackles the turbulence of some contemporary societies in the Arab world, focusing on their crises of identity, social conformity and the prospect of tyranny, as well as on the role of colonialism and patriarchy. To register for this free event, visit this site.

Play Space

15 May, The Mosaic Rooms SW5.  Designer Sahra Hersi leads a creative workshop for children and families at one of London’s best venues for talks and events on contemporary Arab culture. RSVP to attend at Mosaic Rooms. 

Palmyra’s Kitchen

Daily, noon to midnight, Finsbury Park N4. Whether it’s kibbeh shamiyeh, a vegan foul moudammas, sea bass or a charcoal-grilled shish taouk, there’s something here to please everyone who loves Syrian or Lebanese cuisine.  Add in the cold mezzas, specialty teas, kunafeh, mouhallabieh and a wide range of other rich deserts and you have an experience not to be missed, especially given their modest prices. Free delivery is also available at Palmyra's Kitchen.  

--Pamela Ann Smith

2 May, 2022