Dear Hampsteadians,
Welcome to March and by my calendar at lest, Spring!
This week we celebrate International Women's Day on Sunday, with local events dedicated to the history and creativity of women in our community. Burgh House launches two major exhibitions and new theatre comes to the stage in the area.
Here is your guide to what’s happening in the local area this week.
Lark — Upstairs at the Gatehouse, Highgate (N6)
A compelling new production staged in Highgate’s celebrated fringe theatre. While the venue is known for its ambitious musicals, this intimate drama offers a shift in tone, focusing on character-driven storytelling that makes full use of the unique "upstairs" setting.
Mon 02 Mar – Sun 08 Mar (19:30). LINK
Grit, Glitter and Gaslight — Circle & Star, Kentish Town (NW5) The Sarah McGuinness Story: a powerful one-woman show blending music and storytelling. This performance charts a journey from the glitz of Hollywood to personal transformation, told with grit, humor, and soul. Tue 03 Mar (19:30). LINK
Harold and Maude (1971) — Tufnell Park Film Club @ The Lord Palmerston (NW5) A screening of the 1971 cult classic dark comedy. The club meets upstairs at the pub for a community-focused cinematic experience, celebrating one of Hal Ashby’s most beloved and eccentric films. Tue 03 Mar (20:00). LINK
Looking For Me Friend: The Music Of Victoria Wood — Jacksons Lane, Highgate (N6) A nostalgic and funny tribute to the late, great Victoria Wood. This cabaret-style performance celebrates her wit and musical genius, featuring many of her most beloved songs and sketches. Thu 05 Mar (19:30). LINK
Unheard Voices: Women Composers — Lauderdale House, Highgate (N6) A special International Women’s Day recital featuring mezzo-soprano Carola Emrich-Fisher and pianist Lara Dodds-Eden. The programme highlights the brilliant works of historical women composers who were often sidelined by history. Sun 08 Mar (15:00). LINK
Leo Richardson & Jamie Safir — Hampstead Jazz Club (NW3) An evening with two of the UK’s finest jazz musicians. Saxophonist Leo Richardson and pianist Jamie Safir bring their effortless chemistry to the basement of the Duke of Hamilton for a night of hard-swinging standards. Thu 05 Mar (20:00). LINK
Jon Allen & The Luna Kings — West Hampstead Arts Club (NW6) An evening of soulful rock and blues. Singer-songwriter Jon Allen, known for his whiskey-soaked vocals and timeless songwriting, performs with his band in this intimate, high-quality acoustic venue. Sat 07 Mar (19:30). LINK
The Massive Violins: The Greatest Hits — Jacksons Lane, Highgate (N6) Prepare to be astonished by seven singing cellists. Performing everything from Queen to Mozart, this ensemble brings incredible virtuosity and a healthy dose of humor to the stage. Wed 04 Mar (19:30). LINK
Some good news in the weather section - It’s getting warmer at last! https://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2647553
Hampstead Vanished and Imagined — Burgh House, Hampstead (NW3) NEW EXHIBITION: This fascinating display uses the house's extensive archive to show "the Hampstead that was." From lost landmarks to unrealized architectural dreams, it offers a look at how our village almost looked. Starts Thu 05 Mar (Wed–Sun, 10:00–16:00). LINK
Amongst the Trees and Terraces: Donald Chisholm Towner — Burgh House (NW3) NEW EXHIBITION: Running alongside the 'Vanished' exhibition, this retrospective celebrates the work of Towner (1903-1985), who spent decades painting the leafy corners and historic facades of Hampstead and Highgate. Starts Thu 05 Mar (Wed–Sun, 10:00–16:00). LINK
Diz Harford: A Retrospective — Lauderdale House, Highgate
A celebration of the vibrant, expressive works of the late Diz Harford, a longtime Highgate resident. This retrospective in the Long Gallery features her bold, color-rich oil paintings and sketches. Ongoing
(Check website for daily gallery times). LINK
Interesting fact of the week
The author Mary Ann Evans, known by her pen George Eliot (subject of the current play at Hampstead Theatre) lived in Highgate at Holly Lodge. Initially buried in the "unconsecrated" section of Highgate Cemetery due to her controversial lifestyle, she was later moved to a more prominent spot alongside her partner, George Henry Lewes.
Local Markets
The two classic markets are on as usual, located at the bottom of the heath at William Ellis school - they’re perfect for a weekend stroll through the heath and a browse. The farmers market has fresh produce and hot food, the boot sale could have anythings else!
Parliament hill Farmers Market - Sat 10am - 2pm
Bootyfull Carboot sale - Sun 11am - 2pm
West Hampstead Farmers’ Market — West Hampstead Thameslink Station (NW6) Located in the bustling forecourt of the Thameslink station, this Saturday staple brings the best of the countryside to NW6.
Sat 07 March (10:00–14:00). LINK
Hampstead Saturday Indoor Market — Hampstead Community Centre (NW3) A local staple for over 50 years, this vibrant indoor market is tucked just behind the High Street. With around 20 stalls, it’s a treasure trove for collectors and gift-hunters alike, featuring a rotating selection of antiques, vintage jewelry, handmade crafts, and pre-loved books.
Sat 07 March (10:00–17:00). LINK
Brave Bettie — Jacksons Lane, Highgate (N6) A magical woodland adventure for the little ones. Bettie loves the forest but is afraid of the shadows; this story follows her journey as she finds her voice and makes new friends. Perfect for ages 3-7.
Sun 08 Mar (11:00 & 14:00). LINK
Wild about Hampstead Heath — Parliament Hill (NW5) Join volunteer wildlife interpreters for an informal drop-in session. Look for the "Wild About Hampstead Heath" bike near the Parliament Hill cafe to learn about the animals and plants waking up for spring.
Sun 08 Mar (14:00–16:00). LINK
Cineclub: Norman McLaren, Selected Animations — The Well Walk Theatre Click to open side panel for more information , Hampstead (NW3) A mesmerizing loop screening of selected works by the legendary pioneer of hand-drawn animation, Norman McLaren. This Cineclub session offers a rare chance to see his experimental and mischievous shorts in an intimate setting.
Sat 07 Mar (14:00). LINK
Thank you for reading and I really hope you have found something that looks interesting. If you think this would be a useful resource for anyone you know in the area, please do share this with them and help build our local community!
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