What’s On This Week

Writer Kaitlin Dunning is back to tell us what is happening this week in London – where to go, what to do and what to catch up on!

What to Watch – Gangster Squad

Los Angeles in 1949 was not the glamorous scene depicted by vintage entertainment news. While LA was home to Hollywood stars Marilyn Monroe, Humphrey Bogart, and James Dean, there was a darker scene to this city. The dark side was created by the crooks, or gangsters, as they were called. Donned in pin stripe suits and fedoras, these gangsters were a force to be reckoned with. Feared by all, it would take a brave soul to stand up against Mickey Cohen, the gangster mob king. In this film, there are 6 brave souls, called “The Gangster Squad.” With this star studded cast consisting of Sean Penn, Ryan Gosling, and Emma Stone, this film based on a true story is sure to thrill!

What To Drink – The Hoxton Pony Tea Party

This isn’t your grandma’s tea party. Although beverages are served in posh, vintage tea cups, the drinks are alcoholic and are served from unique infusion jars. Each jar can serve 3 people if you’d like a proper buzz, or 6 if you want just a cuppa’. Visiting the Hoxton Pony is a nice change from going out to your local for a pint. Switch it up, have a tea party!

Don’t Miss – The Super Bowl Final

This thrilling display of American athleticism is a football game between the Baltimore Ravens and the San Francisco 49ers. The victorious team will receive the prestigious title of the National Football League’s 2012 Season Champion. The game will be played in New Orleans, Louisiana. However, you can watch it here in London! It will be playing on the screens of 3 Famous Kings in Kensington, Bar Kick in Shoreditch, The Sports Cafe in Haymarket, and Rattlesnake Bar in Angel. As if watching Football wasn’t a good enough excuse to head to the pub after your Sunday roast, Beyonce will be performing during the coveted half time show! This game will be especially exciting because the head coaches of the opposing teams are brothers… Which Harbaugh brother’s team will you root for?

Where To Take Her – Shrek the Musical

Does your girl love going to the theatre, but the thought of attending a ballet or “girly” musical makes you cringe? Shrek the Musical is a great compromise. This musical will provide you with cultural entertainment, but won’t force you to grab a beer and watch the football after to prove you are still a man. It is promised to be just as hilarious and witty as the comedic film that we all know and love. Staying true to the storyline of the film, your favorite animated characters come to life for this stage production. You will probably even find yourself singing along to the catchy melody of “I’m a Believer.” This is the best way to score points with her for being open to theatre without having to sit through a production of Swan Lake.

Where to Go – The Manet Exhibition at The Royal Academy of Arts

Open from 26 January 2013 to 14 April 2013, this is a wonderful opportunity to see rare and exquisite work from the artist. Edouard Manet’s works are described as impressionist and are considered to be the genesis of modern art as we see it today. A truly rare and privileged glimpse into the masterful world of Manet with works on show spanning the entire career of this, at times, controversial artist. Unmissable. Ticket costs from £15 for Adults and £10 for students at royalacademy.org.uk