Embodied Cognition is the scientific theory that our mental processes are heavily influenced by the body, sensory and motor systems intertwined with the mental realm. This theory drawing parallel to metaphysical practises such as divination, alchemy, shamanism and hypnosis – all with a holistic acknowledgement of mind – body – soul. Exploring both the scientific and the spiritual and how they intertwine in new work No-How Generator, choreographer Matthias Sperling, alongside fellow dancer Katye Coe guide us all on a ritual-like hour.

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Whatever your dreams or aspirations may be, the thought of achieving said accomplishment/s powers the everyday, the pursuit of stardom one familiar to many, the realities of holding down a day job whilst auditioning for that possible career changing role one that many within the arts can relate to. A tender observation of pursuing one’s dream with the day to day realities of managing a pub, writer Helen Cunningham presents The Queen’s Arms, a familiar, thoughtful take on the hospitality teams that help make our days run that bit more smoother.

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Kaash returns to the Southbank Centre for Pandit Ravi Shankar’s 100^thbirthday celebration with sophisticated ferocity. Rooted in the South Asian classical dance form Kathak, the show delights and wonders senses accustomed to western rhythm. His first full-length play Kaash is an important milestone for the now distinguished Akram Khan and it is a treat to see it again today to see how it all began. It is comforting that his signature remains unchanged in his steady devotion to accessible contemporary world-class dance drawing from his heritage in the subcontinent of India.

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Situated within the mid-Southern sky, the Lupus constellation consists of over 120 stars, it’s latin name translating as ‘wolf’. A component of Ché Walker‘s new work Wolf Cub, the allegorical tale of a divided, turbulent 80s and 90s America couldn’t be anymore prevalent, the show tying in the spiritual with a rugged, grounded reality – resulting in an incredibly resonant work exploring issues of race, class, politics, mental health, family and womanhood.

Courtesy of Robert Day.

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The press conference is a fascinating facet of our popular culture, the first port of call for both politicians and civilians as the fate of our futures are outlined. A defining element of our lockdowns, the 5pm daily briefings would allow for the nation to be notified about next steps, and measures taken to address our unique time period. Examining our current political climate, both on a national and international level, theatre company Rhum + Clay present Project Dictator, an observation on the impact of authoritarian rule.

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The Bone Sparrow is a joyous and sensitive exploration of a harrowing story about a detention centre in Australia from the eyes of young Subhi, the first baby born in the centre. A compelling and moving story beautifully acted by every member of the company. Yet the star of the show is the set, staging, and ensemble work giving us a masterclass in how in a few square meters a team of creatives can come together to transport us to another world entirely.

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In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) is a type of Assistive Reproductive Technology (ART) used specifically for couples whereby the chances of natural reproduction are small. A procedure pioneered in the late 70s, IVF has gone on to support many hopeful couples become parents, the notion now that IVF is a possible option for families a cultural phenomenon. American Biochemist and Geneticist Dr Richard Myers has been integral to the treatment’s innovation, his ‘Human Genome Project’ giving the world a better understanding of the structure, organisation and function of the complete set of human genes. Receiving its world premiere at the Hampstead Theatre, Alexis Zegerman’s The Fever Syndrome is an appreciation of how far we’ve come scientifically, and how discovery continues to drive the everyday.

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For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When the Hue Gets Too Heavy spoils the audience with stories upon stories upon stories without missing a beat. It’s a must watch on so many levels I hardly know where to start. There’s the cinematic production values, the greatest contemporary monologue I’ve ever seen delivered on stage, the ensemble movement, the absolute rejection of structural narrative, and the simple joy of watching black boys play, love, fight, hug, dance, sing, and cry in a way I have never seen done before on stage, TV, or film outside of a queer specific context.

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Black Love is a joyous musical for grownups that manifests radical self-love and unapologetic storytelling serving some home truths to our white counterparts. The whole energy of the piece is playful with an upbeat black feminism which sends a strong message of solidarity far and wide.

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A sub genre of Hip Hop originating from Chicago, Trap music has gone on to enjoy success on a mainstream level, the marker of success – the various interpretations of Trap across the globe, the UK bringing with it its own interpretation of the genre with Drill music. A means of expression for the underrepresented, the genre brings with it an honesty about the stark and harsh realities of life. Forming the inaugural season of his Artistic Directorship at newly established 180 Studios x Sadler’s Wells, director, choreographer and performer Ivan Michael Blackstock presents TRAPLORD, an exploration of trap culture.

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