As we step into this beautiful Spring season (rushing to type this up while it’s still sunny outside!), The Islington Storyteller has some fresh news for you on all things local (and nearby) happening throughout the next few weeks. As usual, newsletter subscribers would have received these ahead of time, so make sure to get on the list to stay updated. Some additional updates pop up on the @islington_london Instagram, so do check it out if you haven’t yet.
You may remember that we shared Islington Giving’s crisis appeal in December. Thank you to all of those who donated. Their team shared good news saying they managed to raise £123,000, 100% of which went to local residents struggling with the current cost of living crisis.
Another newsflash. The Islington Storyteller is embarking on a new project called Visual Histories, where a team of local photographers and writers will be recreating archived photos of our neighbourhood to show how it changed throughout the years. Many thanks to the Islington History Archives for providing access to old captures, which will be revived with the magic of digital photography and posted throughout the next few months on the Islington Storyteller website and on this interactive map! If you would like to contribute to the map or would like for us to cover a place of interest to you, drop a note at islington.london@outlook.com 😊
Now, to the recommendations!
The Local(ish) events list

Keys to a perfect Saturday (March 4th)
First, you can visit the Victoria Miro Gallery at 16th Wharf Row to check out their new show.
Just around the corner, you’ll find Ashwell House, a student hall that actually hides a concert venue! Here you’ll be able to hear Hispanic chamber music by a trio of outstanding young musicians. Tickets can be found here, and the performance starts at 5.30 p.m.
If that isn’t enough live music for one evening (!) from 8 pm onwards, the Jamboree just one stops away from Angel is hosting the SOAS Ceilidh Band for some Cornish music and dance! More info here.
5th March – Yoga Day
Organised by The Yoga Quarter, classes are priced from £1 each, and all proceeds will be going to the Islington Foodbank. More info
9th March – Jazz and Swing (+class!) at the Jamboree
Join from 8.30 p.m. onwards for an evening of listening, learning and dancing to live jazz music. Dance class 7-8 p.m. entry at £8-15, tickets here.
Every Monday – Free class by Mildmay Community Centre
This dance-fit class is run by Pineapple Studios’ choreographer Winston Jean-Charles. 1-2 p.m. Booking is essential, just email winston.the.geezer@gmail.com
11th March – Winner’s Curse at Park Theatre
Winner’s Curse at Park Theatre in Finsbury is a show about the negotiations between cynical diplomats, idealistic peacemakers and meddling mediators that try to navigate a perilous path to agreement as the threat of continued conflict looms ever larger. The show has two starts at 3 p.m. and 7.30 p.m. Tickets here
15th March – Angel Comedy Social Club
8 p.m. onwards is a laidback comedy night at the Bill Murray Pub, promising great vibes and laughs. If you can’t make it on this particular evening, worry not as social club nights are held weekly each Wednesday. Tickets here
Monday – Friday – Work from Pub!
The Narrowboat by Regent’s Canals recently introduced a ‘work from pub’ deal offering unlimited teas and coffees throughout the day + a selection of sandwiches for just £15.
More info
24th March – Comedy at Hackney Empire
London’s biggest comedy night returns with a mega line-up for March, headlined by the stand-up star, Off Menu podcast hero, Taskmaster champ, and star of his own Amazon stand-up special, Ed Gamble.
Book here
31st March – 90’s Disco at O2 Academy
If you caught yourself thinking that a night out may be a good idea, it’s time to put your thoughts into action and dance to some 90s classics at the O2 Academy.
Tickets here
Weekly – Life drawing in Candid Arts Trust
All classes are at £15. There is also an option to join online!
Book here
Tuesdays and Thursdays – Tango fever near Exmouth Market
Begginer-friendly classes hosted in a studio between Angel & Farringdon with classes for only £12.
Schedule and booking here
New things to check out
Not in March, but you may start thinking about getting tickets; the Brick Lane Jazz Festival will be taking place 14-16 of April
What a great find! The Mums Club Islington. This is an inclusive community with events for mothers and their little ones. A range of meetups happens in our local Poppets Stores, a cafe with a sitting room for children’s play.
Until Jul 2023 – Producing for young creatives at the Hackney Empire
Young Producers is a free training opportunity to create and organise your own events – such as Emerging Talent Gigs, Youth Festivals and Alter Ego. More info here.
Contact creative.futures@hackneyempire.co.uk should you have any additional questions.
The Islington Blend – A new(ish) bar with some great cocktails.
Back next month with more recommendations,|
Ana
Featured photos by German Ameri @grmameri