+ Why AI might be the tech to give us back some time Page 12
Aug 12-26, 2026 wharf-life.com
inside issue 168
University Of Sunderland In London - Crosswords Sudoku - Circle Collective - WheelPower Shad Thames - Barking Riverside - Painshill Big London Tattoo Show - Greenwich Theatre Underground Comedy - Classic Boat Festival SushiDog - Run The Wharf
how The Dance Floor at Sadler’s Wells East is set to host a new season of free classes Pages 30-31
the space to
Call our team on 020 7205 4021 or email cmiller@kiddrapinet.co.uk, Image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
ypatel@kiddrapinet.co.uk or mzvarykina@kiddrapinet.co.uk celebrating the best of Canary Wharf, Docklands and the new east London people - events - treasure - property - foolishness
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things to do, places to go, people to see Where? Boisdale Of Canary Wharf Cabot Place
GIG | Odyssey Not the Matt Damon blockbuster, but the pulsing disco of Native New Yorker, Going Back To My Roots and Use It Up And Wear It Out. Sept 3, 6pm, from £62 (inc food), boisdale.co.uk
Welcome to issue 168 of Wharf Life. There’s a strong flavour of opportunity, education and jobs in this paper with the chance to get moving for free at Sadler’s Wells, Circle Collective’s coffee with purpose and the University Of Sunderland In London’s Elevate programme to support grads...
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Find things to see, do and get involved with on the Wharf
Where? Canada Square Park Canary Wharf
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SEE | NT Live: The Playboy Of The Western World Screened live from the National Theatre, Nicola Coughlan and Éanna Hardwicke star in John Millington’s darkly funny play packed with secrets. Aug 31, 2pm, free, canarywharf.com
How Padium is set to host taster sessions for wheelchair padel
Where? Jubilee Park Canary Wharf
MUSIC | Docklands Sinfonia String Quartet Enjoy the refined strains of well-known melodies as this musical foursome entertain Wharfers through lunchtime amid the trees and fountains. Aug 26, 12.30pm-2pm, free, canarywharf.com
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The Dance Floor at Sadler’s Wells East welcomed some 6,600 people to free lunchtime dance classes in its first year and is all set to kick off a new season in September
flash back
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Why a cup of coffee at Circle Collective comes with purpose
the joy of six
13 The Tallyman is set to open its doors in September, a new pub for the Wharf complete with a seafood shack, impromptu live music and a solid line-up of food and drinks to draw in the punters thetallyman.co.uk Scan this code to read Wharf Life’s interview with the new venue’s owner, Anthony Pender want more? @wharfwhispers
Emerge East is returning to Barking Riverside for a day of food, drinks and beats
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A change of view: We escape to the country for a walk around Painshill
Every issue Wharf Life covers six areas surrounding Canary Wharf to bring you the best of what’s going on beyond the estate From Page 21
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50%
Canada Place is set to welcome footwear brand Nokwol to the Wharf in late September. The family-run Australian business has been quietly expanding for 40 years and promises premium materials, solid construction and a quality feel on your feet nokwol.com
26 Nora London has rebranded to Beam at Wood Wharf’s Union Square, bringing it into line with the four north London cafés operated by its owners, the Akyuz brothers. Expect all-day dining and a focus on brunch with a Turkish twist cafebeam.co.uk
Boisdale Of Canary Wharf has unveiled its summer sale with 50% off a range of food and drinks, all day, Tuesday to Friday across both of its floors. Get full details online boisdale.co.uk
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Catch some famous faces coming soon to Greenwich Theatre
The Big London Tattoo Show is set to fill Excel London with ink
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TRIED + TESTED Teriyaki Steak SushiDog SushiDog sushidog.co.uk
The Teriyaki Steak Sushi Dog costs £9.60 and is every inch a glorious mongrel
Wharfers are no fools. Just look at the line outside SushiDog’s outlet in Canada Place in front of Waitrose. There’s a reason the time-poor are willing to wait and that is value, pure and simple. I’ll admit to being a little sceptical. Does anyone remember Kaleido? A business that sold salads wrapped in rice paper. The flavours were pleasant, but somehow the portions looked a little meagre – too dainty to tempt a critical mass of customers. Suffice to say, it’s no longer trading. SushiDog isn’t about that. Forget the refined, staid elegance of traditional
Japanese cuisine. In a similar fashion to poke’s irreverent chucking together of ingredients, the dog ain’t subtle. But it is glorious. Firstly, my nori-wrapped sausage is much bigger than expected – more burrito than maki. It’s generously packed with on-point rice, slaw, tender Teriyaki steak and crispy wonton strips. Throughout, there’s fragrant pickled ginger. It’s filling, flavourful and moreish. This might be a mongrel, but it’s a wonderful beast and worth every penny of its £9.60 price tag. ★★★★★ Jon Massey
Get three small plates for £20 at newly opened Vagabond in Wood Wharf. Offer available Monday to Sunday, from noon to 3pm. Ideal to go alongside a glass of wine.. vagabondwines.co.uk
How the University Of Sunderland in London’s Elevate programme works to help its graduates find the opportunities and careers they aspire to
MADE TO PLAY GUITAR Guitar lessons rooted in musical connection and community.
BOOK YOUR FREE TRIAL GUITAR LESSON 8 East Lane, Harbord Square, Canary Wharf, E14 9PQ KITCHENJAM.COM
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Unexpected, intermittent pauses in the delivery of clean fresh water to a home. This should be seen in the context of a £1million sign-on bonus for the chap appointed to run the firm that’s supposed to ensure such outages do not occur...
CATCH THIS Kiki’s Delivery Service (U) Everyman Canary Wharf everymancinema.com
diary dates, listings and ideas to make life in Canary Wharf sweeter.. DONATE BOOKS Mulberry Primary School Mulberry Wood Wharf canarywharf.com
One of the masterpieces in Hayao Miyazaki’s extraordinary collection of films, this coming-of-age story follows a young witch who delivers bread on her broom but loses the power of flight in a moment of self doubt. Featuring a sarcastic black cat called Jiji, this delicate, emotive film from Studio Ghibli is a wonderful watch for all ages. Catch it at 4pm on Sunday, Septmeber 6 at the Crossrail Place venue. Tickets cost £21.40 for adults and £16.90 for kids 14 and under.
eesome
adjective, real, from Old English This archaic word means someone or something that’s very pleasing on the eye, beautiful or attractive. Try casually weaving it into conversations when expressing admiration for stunning artistic works of comely views...
Mulberry Wood Wharf Primary School is asking for book donations up until September 30 as it works to build a new library. Books for young readers that help spark curiosity are welcome and can be dropped at the school in Brannan Street or at Circle Collective in Jubilee Place. Those visiting the latter over the next two weeks can get a coffee for £1 from its latest initiative – see Page 8
Immigration Solicitors Run The Wharf is set to return to the estate on Thursday, September 3 from 6pm-11pm GET SWEATY Run The Wharf 2026 Canada Square Park fridaynightlights.run
With you from the start Our immigration team has earned its strong reputation for providing expert legal advice and practical support on a wide range of immigration issues. Trust us to help you make the right application. 020 7205 2896 AYLESBURY
The fast-paced 5k race returns to the streets of Canary Wharf next month, inviting runners of all abilities to strap on their sneakers and strive for a personal best or just enjoy the beats as they jog between the towers. The event, run by Friday Night Lights, is set to take place on Thursday, September 3, from 6pm-11pm and features a “curated social” after the running is done in Canada Square Park complete with music, bars and food. Tickets cost £42.35 including booking fees
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how Padium in Canary Wharf is set to host WheelPower’s wheelchair padel taster sessions
77k+
WheelPower supports more than 77,000 people through its activities nationwide Paul Rushton of WheelPower says playing sport is a great way for disabled people to get fitter and build strength
by Jon Massey
W
heelPower is all about enabling people to enjoy sport and lead more active lives,” said Paul Rushton, head of fundraising, data and communications at the national charity for wheelchair sport. “Wheelchair padel isn’t a very big thing yet, but we would like it to be. As a sport, padel is very accessible and there are an increasing number of courts.” WheelPower is set to host its first taster sessions at Padium for juniors and adults on September 15 in Canary Wharf. Paul said: “I was contacted by Simon Turner from Optinet – one of our sponsors over many years, which is based in One Canada Square – who had an idea that we hadn’t done a wheelchair padel event before and thought it would be good to have one in Canary Wharf to raise awareness of the sport and what the charity does. “On the day, we’ll be hosting two sessions – one for juniors aged eight-17 from 11am and one for adults from 1.30pm. “We supply everything necessary, including lunch for participants, and both sessions are suitable for complete beginners. “We put those taking part in sports wheelchairs, do some drills, show them how to move around and how to hold the bats. Coaches will then do some training in how to hit the ball. There will be some practice rallies before players take part in matches. “It’s going to be a magnificent event, to get local disabled people playing sport. The benefits are
To give people around here the opportunity to participate in wheelchair padel is going to be a magical thing Paul Rushton, WheelPower Images by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
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enormous. Wheelchair users have a sedentary lifestyle, especially as they get older, so being active helps with daily tasks, like tackling kerbs and getting in and out of cars. “Upper body strength is really important. We also find that sport is really good for people’s mental health. “There are many different reasons why someone may be in a wheelchair, including suffering catastrophic injuries. “I have met people who are told they are paralysed and immediately start a new life. Most people aren’t like that and it can take them a long time to get used to the new normal. “Through sport, they can meet other disabled people who have often had similar experiences and can talk about those with them because of that shared understanding of those lived experiences.”
P
adel is the focus for this event, but WheelPower’s mission extends to a wealth of sports, competitions and activities from its base at Stoke Mandeville Hospital where the organisation has been running in one form or another since 1948. “We just want to get people active and we don’t care how,” he said. “That might be helping people to find an accessible sports club, helping them with equipment or training teachers, coaches and physios, so they can make their sports sessions more accessible for disabled people. “We’re involved in the wider Paralympic movement – the Paralympic Flame has been lit at the Stoke Mandeville Stadium since 2012 – and we’ve managed to help a lot of athletes succeed at the Games, but it’s more than that. “Disabled people are likely to be half as active as their non-disabled peers. “We’re trying to address that, whether it’s going down the Paralympic route with football, rugby and athletics or it’s something as simple as joining a gym, swimming at a local pool or going for a push every day. “Even something as simple as that can really help to raise the heart rate a bit and make people fitter, so that later in life they’ll be healthier. “We’ve got different sports for different people – everything from archery to hand cycling. We’re promoting about 38 different sports and the growth has been massive. “The biggest thing I’ve seen over time is the increase in access to these sports locally, which has really improved. People’s attitude to disabled sport has also changed
and improved massively, especially since 2012. “We mustn’t forget that not every disabled person is superhuman, and they all have their struggles, depending on their impairments. “Everybody with a disability is different, and it’s our job to support them to do what they want.” WheelPower, which supports more than 77,000 people to access sports across the country, is funding the sessions at Padium, which are being run with the help of Optinet and Canary Wharf Contractors. A range of sponsorship opportunities and volunteering places at the event are still available, should companies or organisations wish to get involved. Paul said: “Sport is so important for everyone and to give people around here the opportunity to participate in padel is going to be a magical thing. “I’ve been lucky to have been involved as a fundraiser with WheelPower for 23 years now. It’s the best job in the world. “I speak to people who are so giving and generous, and then with people who have so many amazing stories about what they’ve done with that support. “You can really see the impact that sport makes on people and we see it every day – it really is wonderful. “There are astonishing stories of Paralympic medal success, which will never leave me and I’ve met so many incredible people like that. “But you also meet the parents of children, for example, who might not compete at that level, but whose lives are improved so much because they are able to play sport. That’s something really special.” key details Learn To Play Padel With WheelPower is set to take place on Tuesday, September 15 from 11am-3pm at Padium in Canary Wharf. The taster sessions are free to attend but must be booked in advance – there’s a £15 deposit that’s refunded after the event. At the time of going to press the adult session was fully booked with a waiting list in operation, however spaces remained for juniors aged eight-17. Places at the event can be reserved on the charity’s website. Go to wheelpower.org.uk for more information
Scan this code to find out more about the event
Padium in Canary Wharf is set to host Learn To Play Padel With WheelPower
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£1
Visit Circle Collective between August 12 and 26 and get a coffee for £1 by mentioning code PURPOSE when ordering. Terms apply
how Circle Collective has brought coffee into its Canary Wharf store as a route into work for young people by Jon Massey
A
s a nation, we’re soundly hooked on the black stuff. According to the British Coffee Association, UK drinkers consume 98million cups a day – nearly one and a half for every person living in the country. Judging by the number of outlets across Canary Wharf, it’s reasonable to suppose those working, living or visiting the estate, punch a little above average on that figure. While there are many places to get your fix in the malls, one venue has a significant point of difference. The coffee from Circle Collective, located at the bottom of the escalators to the western end of the main mall, comes with a secret ingredient – opportunity in every cup. The London-based charity, founded in 2011 by CEO Turly Humphreys, was set up to support unemployed people aged 16-30 through training and experience working in its shops, with the aim of helping them find jobs. Having originally opened its Canary Wharf store in 2023, with ongoing support from CWG, the charity has moved a couple of times, but location hasn’t been the only change. “This is a new model for Circle Collective,” said Turly. “We’ve moved away from predominantly fashion to more of a mix with gifts, cards and homewares, stocking sustainable local products for people to buy. “Very excitingly, we’re also now serving coffee and one of the reasons we wanted to do that was because the young people coming on our programmes were telling us they couldn’t afford to buy a cup. “We wanted to both offer drinks at an affordable price and also expand our programme so our young people could train to become baristas in the hospitality sector.” Branded “Coffee With Purpose”, from the consumer’s point of view, Circle’s operation features espresso for £2.50, while a flat white is £3.50. “There’s also a Coffee And Cookie deal for £5 – a saving of more than £2 – with the sweet treats sourced from Rinkoffs bakery in Whitechapel. The coffee itself comes from
Cameroon via Amero, a company run by Canary Wharf resident and JP Morgan Chase & Co vice president of model risk governance and review, Daniel Kemdeng. The decaf is by Cruise Coffee – a company founded by Turly and her son George – which imports from Colombia and uses a by-product of the sugar cane industry to remove the caffeine before roasting takes place in small batches at Tate Britain. Served alongside a menu of fine teas plus hot chocolate from Ghana and Venezuela, it’s a compelling proposition for those seeking warm refreshment. Presiding over this selection and heading up the operation is cafe manager and trainer Gareth Bell – a self-confessed jack of all trades, with a background that includes selling a photography retail tech startup to Jessops, extensive experience in the coffee sector and work for charities. “At Circle Collective, we run a training programme for six weeks,” he said. “We work on a few different elements of the hospitality and cafe industry, with soft skills, confidence and mentoring, but also the technical skills of making coffee and the bigger story of the product itself, from farm to cup to customer. “It’s all about appreciating the work that goes into making a hot beverage. “One of the things I try to do with trainees is to prepare them to be able to explain it all to customers who want to know more. “If people who visit us go away with a little more knowledge then it’s mission accomplished. “If trainees can get to a point where they’re sharing that with customers, that they know what they’re talking about and can communicate it, then that gives them a platform to stand on. “But we also want them to be themselves, to enjoy what they’re doing – we don’t want this to be a strict, corporate environment. “What we want to do is build a business for Circle Collective based on people coming in and seeing there’s a purpose behind what we’re doing. “We have regulars coming in every day, word-of-mouth has been important and it’s a great opportunity for us to share what the charity does.” The first cohort of trainees has just completed the programme,
Gareth writes inspirational quotes on the Circle Collective coffee machine to help convey the charity’s mission
with purpose
The store sells Amero and Cruise coffees as well as cookies from Rinkoffs
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Coffee is a vehicle and you can drive it to go into anything. For me, it’s really about our trainees seeing the bigger picture Gareth Bell, Circle Collective
Circle Collective CEO and founder, Turly Humphreys
Gareth Bell runs the coffee
Trainees are encouraged
training programme at
to decorate cups
Circle Collective in Canary Wharf
for customers
with a week’s work experience at Hilton London Canary Wharf the final piece in the puzzle. Turly, who generally orders a decaf latte, said: “What we would like is for more companies to come to us with internships, apprenticeships, work experience placements and jobs. “One of our challenges is brand awareness and we want people to know that by shopping with us they are helping to give young people opportunities.” Gareth, whose preference is for an oat flat white, added: “For me, change is a good word to think about – education and awareness are important. That’s why I write inspirational quotes on the coffee machine. “Making the coffee is one thing, but the transferable skills gained from this programme, such as selling to customers, means those participating can go into anything. “Coffee is a vehicle and you can drive it to go into anything. It’s about trainees seeing the bigger picture. “There are lots of opportunities – it’s also about identifying what our trainees’ values are. “For example, I have one at the moment who loves fashion and design, so they are looking after the layout of the products. “If they finish the programme and they walk our of here more educated than when they arrived then that’s a win for me.” ● From August 12-26, Wharfers visiting Circle Collective can use the code PURPOSE to get any coffee for £1, limited to one drink per customer, per day. key details Circle Collective serves coffee from its Canary Wharf store in Jubilee Place from 7.30am-2.30pm. The store is open to shoppers until 7pm on weekdays. Those interested in applying for the charity’s programmes can find full details online. Go to circlecollective.org
Scan this code to find out more about Circle Collective
Circle Collective sells gifts, fashion, cards and now coffee in Jubilee Place Images by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
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40 on track
by Joe Thurgood
Think of SWR Business Direct as your company’s personal rail travel command centre. You can run detailed expense reports in just three clicks Joe Thurgood, SWR
Q
It’s important in any business to keep abreast of the details of operation. How does SWR Business Direct help companies report on their travel expenses and is this easy to do?
A
If we’re honest, nobody actually enjoys chasing down crumpled train tickets and building messy expense spreadsheets at the end of the month. Yet, in business, keeping on top of the data is everything. If you don’t know where the money is going, you can’t manage the budget. That is exactly where the SWR Business Direct platform comes into play. Think of this free-to-use portal as your company’s personal rail travel command centre. Instead of every employee buying tickets independently and filing separate claims, the platform centralises everything. It tracks every journey a firm books across the entire British rail network, including the carbon footprint, any savings made and even reasons for travel (or whatever metric a customer chooses). When it comes to reporting, it completely eliminates the administrative friction. how does it help you report? It lets you pull down-to-the-penny data instantly. You can easily analyse exact travel expenditures, track custom fields like project names or client accounts and even log specific purchase order numbers. Plus, for companies tracking sustainability targets, it automatically captures and generates carbon footprint reports. It delivers audited, decision-ready data whenever you need it. is it actually easy to do? It’s incredibly simple. You can run detailed expense reports in just three clicks. Because the system captures the data automatically, your finance team won’t have to spend hours processing manual employee expenses. It gives you full visibility and total control over your corporate travel outgoings, plus it still books all national rail travel, including TFL and PLUSbus products.
Joe Thurgood is business sales manager at South Western Railway and works to assist companies with their transport booking needs Scan this code to find out more about SWR Business Direct and the ways it makes booking train travel for staff across the UK easier
Minutes it takes to reach Cobham And Stoke D’Abernon from London Waterloo on SWR’s direct service
how Painshill offers Londoners the chance to step into a succession of living paintings amid grand follies
Even in the blazing heat of 2026, Painshill offers beautifully constructed views over land, water and vegetation
by Jon Massey
E
ven in the sun-scorched conditions the UK currently finds itself in, following recordsmashing heat and dryness in June and July, the Surrey countryside looks appealing when framed through the window of a mercifully air-conditioned train carriage. Catching a direct SWR service from London Waterloo to Cobham And Stoke D’Abernon to explore a landscaped park on a day where the mercury was forecast to tip 33ºC in the shade, might not have been the most sensible plan. But the train arrived as a welcome relief after the intense warmth of the Jubilee line from Canary Wharf and we were soon zipping through still-green forests past fields of horses. Our objective was Painshill, a singular folly in every sense of the world. Created by politician and garden designer Charles Hamilton on land he acquired and transformed between 1738 and 1773, the park is laid out as a series of scenes and views inspired by its owner’s travels on grand tours of Europe. Follies were built and botanical specimens planted with the aim of creating a collection of living paintings around a central lake, fed by the adjacent River Mole. It was a hit with visitors. The future American president John Adams, wrote that “Paines Hill is the most striking piece of art that I have yet seen”, but the loans Hamilton had taken from university friends to finance the extensive project fell due and, unable to pay, he was forced to sell it in 1773. Private owners then presided over its gradual decline until the Second World War. After being requisitioned for use by Canadian forces, it was portioned up and sold at the end of the conflict and was used for commercial forestry and pig farming, with much of the park becoming overgrown, its architectural features left to decay. Things might well have remained this way had Elmbridge Borough Council not got a grip on the situation in the early 1980s. It took control of some 212 acres of Hamilton’s original park and embarked on an ambitious project
to restore this landscaped curiosity to its original glory before opening it to the public. Today, those travelling to Painshill are greeted with a swish visitors’ centre, a cafe and a gift shop before they set out into the park proper. There the promise that striking views will unfold before them is made good. There’s a vineyard, a ruined abbey, a gothic temple, a Turkish tent, a derelict arch, a gothic tower, a Temple Of Bacchus and several bridges to encounter, all carefully arranged to create and be the focus of a series of tableaux as walkers progress. Perhaps most striking is the UK’s largest artificial crystal grotto, a delicately realised cave with shells on the floor and slivers of quartz, Blue John and feldspar lining its walls and manufactured stalactites. Then there are the plants and trees, carefully selected and some of national significance – all contributing to a feeling that one has stepped into some sort of fantastical alternate reality, a wonderland conceived to generate awe, amusement and delight in those bearing witness. This is a place of pure, marvellous escapism.
The ruined abbey
● Painshill is open from 10am to pm daily. Adult tickets start at £12.50 and child tickets (ages 5-16) start at £5.50. Kids under 5 go free. Please note the crystal grotto is typically closed on Mondays for ongoing restoration work. The park is a short bus or cab ride from Cobham And Stoke D’Abernon station. Go to painshill.co.uk key details SWR Business Direct is free to use and allows companies to book, plan and manage business travel across the whole of Britain. There are no hidden fees or charges and no booking fees on tickets purchased via the service. You can find full details of the platform on SWR’s website. For more information go to southwesternrailway.com
Scan this code to find out more about SWR Business Direct
The Chinese bridge
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dine
Bici Bistro, Cobham >> Fuel is certainly necessary before embarking on a walk around Painshill and this newly opened all-day dining spot, in nearby Anyards Road, fits the bill. Bici boasts artfully distressed walls, golden lighting and, perhaps most impressively, retractable windows that can raise or lower depending on the breeze or need for air conditioning. This is a smartly realised establishment with a menu of brunchtime favourites for the morning and even more options for lunch and dinner. I opt for the Cilbir – a dish of eggs, diced sujuk garlic sausage and creamy garlic yoghurt that comes with a plentiful supply of chilli-laced flatbread for £14.95. My companion orders the Bici Choice (£15.95) from the venue’s “toast bar”, which arrives as a doorstep-thick slice topped with spinach, avocado, salmon, roast peppers and poached eggs. The kitchen is on-song. Ingredients in both dishes perform in harmony via portion sizes that are almost overwhelmingly generous. This is a venue that’s well worth a visit... Go to bicibistro.co.uk
picture
taste
Sparkling Rosé, £35
The park includes a crystal grotto, a gothic tower, below left, and the tallest multi-stemmed cedar in Europe, right
>> You’ve travelled to Surrey, you’ve walked the paths, now taste the fruits of its vineyard. Made in strictly limited quantities from grapes grown at Painshill, this blushing fizz is only available in person from the park’s gift shop. Within the bottle, drinkers will find a crisply crafted liquid – a blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from a vineyard that was originally planted in 1740. Fit for the Temple Of Bacchus, this sparkling tipple lands lightly on the tongue, effervescent, creamy and bright with just a little citrus to keep things interesting. While the grapes are grown at Painshill, the wine is made a little further south at Bluebell Vineyard Estates in Furner’s Green, Sussex. Go to painshill.co.uk
Images by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
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Canary Wharf - West India Quay
Image by I-Wei Huang
virtual viewpoint by Chris Ezekiel
W
hat, exactly, is time? A rather deep question to ponder in the midst of summer, but please indulge me for a few minutes. Ask a physicist, and you will quickly realise it is one of the universe’s greatest paradoxes. Does time truly exist in any physical sense, or is it merely a clever human invention – an artificial framework constructed to bring order to our chaotic lives? We have become slaves to the ticking clock, organising our existence around rigid schedules, deadlines and alarms. Even the concept of “now” is elusive, an infinitely thin slice of reality that vanishes in the flash of a second, immediately turning into the past, while the future rushes in to take its place. I’m writing this while embarking on a business trip to Australia, and the existential nature of time hit me with renewed force. Leaving my family behind is never easy, but it is particularly hard to step away from my five-year-old, three-year-old, and five-month-old. Watching children grow is a front-row seat to the relentless march of time. Every day away feels like a stolen moment I can never buy back. Yet, a recent conversation with one of our software developers, George, offered an interesting perspective on the matter. Discussing the rapid rise of artificial intelligence, George remarked that with the AI coding tools he now uses, developers don’t really need to worry about time anymore in the same way they used to obsess. Building a product no longer takes months of painstaking labour, it happens almost instantaneously. Development is no longer constrained by hours and days – it is simply a matter of the cost required to purchase AI computational tokens.
Is the concept one we simply apply to a chaotic physical world to make sense of it?
counting the
Making moments last: Perhaps AI will free up more time to spend with loved ones
This shift raises a fundamental question about the future of human labour in the age of automation. If AI can build, analyse, and execute in seconds, how will humans earn a living? After all, we will still need money to pay for access to ever-more-expensive AI models. The answer lies in our human attributes – creativity and value creation. AI brings unprecedented efficiency, but it lacks genuine original intent. Feed an AI a completely rubbish concept, and it will happily generate a 50-page business plan, write the software, and design a marketing strategy for it without hesitation. Try it yourself – the machine doesn’t care if the idea is brilliant or absurd. True direction and emotional spark must still come from us. As AI takes over the mechanical, time-consuming heavy lifting of production, it might just offer us the ultimate gift. If technology does free us from the tyranny of the clock, the real revolution won’t just be economic, it will be human. It gives us hope that we can spend far less time slaving over keyboards and far more time where it actually matters, with our loved ones, making the fleeting present last just a little bit longer. As the saying goes: “Time lost is never found again.” Have a great summer. Chris Ezekiel is founder and CEO of customer engagement solutions specialist Creative Virtual based at Canary Wharf’s Cabot Square Scan this code for more information about Creative Virtual or follow @creativevirtual and @chrisezekiel on X
Wharf Life Aug 12-26, 2026 wharf-life.com
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Limehouse - Wapping - Whitechapel - Tower Hill
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Historic vessels are set to be on show at the Classic Boat Festival in September
The showcase is set to take place at St Katharine Docks
what’s on
things to do, places to go, people to see Where? The George Tavern Whitechapel
GIG | Spike The synth-pop project of Hannah McLoughlin celebrates the release of its self-titled debut album. Expect idiosyncratic sounds. Sept 5, 7pm, £10, thegeorgetavern.london Where? The Clement Attlee Limehouse
EVENT | London Black Dining Experience Cutana chefs respond to Anspach And Hobday’s signature stout (and other beers) with a four-course, beer-paired menu and a chance to meet the makers. Aug 28, 6pm, £45, theclementattlee.co.uk Where? Wilton’s Music Hall Wapping
showcasing the
STAGE | The Elixir Of Love Charles Court Opera and Waterperry Opera Festival present Donizetti’s comic work with plenty of bottled courage and passions running high. Sept 8-19, times vary, from £14.50, wiltons.org.uk
catch this
how the Classic Boat Festival is set for an exhibition of 50 vintage vessels at St Katharine Docks next month by Jon Massey
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hames sailing barges, historic steam tugs and Dunkirk little ships are all set to feature in a free showcase at St Katharine Docks next month. Now in its 17th year, the lassic Boat estival is set to flood the marina with notable craft over two days. Taking place on September 12 and 13, the programme will include live music, talks and activ-
ities for kids as well as the chance to see 50 exquisitely preserved vessels. The SKD Events Platform will host a series of presentations and discussions including an address from writer om unliffe. As ever, entry to the festival is free, with visitors able to meet boat owners and hear the stories of their vessels. A range of nautical antiques will be available to browse and buy at Marble Quay on both days of the festival – which caters for enthusiasts of both sail and power – and
there will be plenty of food on offer from local venues too. key details The Classic Boat Festival is set to take place at St Katharine Docks on September 12 and 13 from 10.30am-5pm. Entry is free. Go to skdocks.co.uk
Scan this code to find out more about the festival
Troxy is set to host American indie rocker Kurt Vile And The Violators delivering Tom Pettylite sounds to east London ears on September 9. Doors will open at 7pm and tickets for the gig start at £39.95 troxy.co.uk Scan this code to find out more about the event or to book tickets to the show want more? @wharfwhispers
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Wharf Life Aug 12-26, 2026 wharf-life.com
how the University Of Sunderland In London’s Elevate programme opens the door to opportunity for its students
what’s on
things to do, places to go, people to see
by Jon Massey
Where? Theatreship Isle Of Dogs
GIG | Glass Eel, Ropeburn + Mabel Clark Expect folk adjacent dislocation and fragility from Alice Western’s solo project and post-folk emo jams as this mixed bill arrives on board Aug 28, 7.30pm, from £6.79, theatreship.co.uk Where? The Space Isle Of Dogs
GIG | Sukoon X Junoon Desi Adda London delivers a live acoustic band night spanning the golden age of Hindi film music with slow songs for the soul and fast for the feet. Sept 4, 7pm, from £18.50, space.org.uk Where? Poplar Union Poplar
TRY | The Sound Labs: Music Beyond Limitations This class, led by Ivy Dreams, offers a relaxed and playful space to explore music, voice and creativity with no previous experience needed. Sept 3, 1pm, free, poplarunion.com
catch it
Tech Academy at The Space is a programme offering Tower Hamlets residents not in work, education or training a two-day crash course in backstage skills intended as a gateway to exploring a career in the industry space.org.uk Scan this code to read our interview Matthew Jameson of The Space to find out more about the programme want more? @wharfwhispers
H
ermione Penny is relishing her latest role. Born in Archway and growing up in Watford, she’s always had a love for busy, urban environments and now really enjoys living and working in London, indulging her passion for playing football locally, having grown up watching the Hornets at Vicarage Road with her dad. But she’s not only a team player on the pitch, it’s a trait she’s carried into her career, most recently as the University Of Sunderland In London’s placement and internship programme manager. “After graduating, I had that period of trying to work out who I was, what I cared about and what I was interested in,” she said. “Initially I worked in clothing retail, but I realised that helping people was where I wanted to be. “I stayed in the sector and found a role at the Fashion Retail Academy, having realised that I’m 100% a people person. The opportunity was in education and I was working to find placements for students across our courses. “I couldn’t do a job where I’m not communicating with other individuals every day – it was during lockdown that I found a group of women to kick a ball around with because it was all we were allowed to do with social distancing.” Next came a spell at Blueprint For All in Deptford, formerly the Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust, a charity with an ambition to create a fairer and more inclusive society. “My role there was to develop programmes and I worked across lots of different pro ects, which reinforced my love of supporting people,” said Hermione. “Following on from the Black Lives Matter movement we saw a lot of partnerships come through the door and we had a lot of success getting funding, so it was a really exciting busy time.
We cover the salaries of the interns and we’re keen to connect with employers who need extra pairs of hands at graduate level over a three-month period Hermione Penny, UOSiL
“I spent some time in fundraising, but I realised what I needed to do was programme management, so I moved to Future Of London, a not for profit organisation that helps people who want to start a career in the built environment, planning, regeneration and community engagement. Working in the world of diversity and inclusion we’d find people internships, support them and see them shine.” All of these facets of her story are important because Hermione’s own career is one where broad experience over many years has equipped her for the role she’s now undertaking at the university from its base at Harbour Exchange on the Isle Of Dogs. The programme she’s running levate is specifically designed to provide those who have finished courses with skills and opportunities to help boost their careers. “This is something new for our campus,” said Hermione. “We know some of our graduates struggle to gain graduate-level employment, especially those who don’t necessarily have the background of a traditional university student. “In some cases, graduates may still be working in the same part-time roles they were doing while studying and we want to support them to secure graduate-level work. “Our employability and enterprise hub already offers ongoing support for up to three years after students graduate. But we’ve developed levate specifically for graduates who are not in further education or jobs at the level they should be. “It’s designed to provide them with some practical work experience via paid internships, as well as training and support to develop their abilities. “It lasts three months and we’re working with businesses across the area to deliver these opportunities to thrive, learn new skills and gain a better understanding of working environments they might not be used to so they have leverage to make job applications and secure graduate-level employment.”
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he first five students are about to complete the pilot programme at the university and Hermione said fle ibility had allowed participants to access opportunities they might have otherwise struggled to find. “It’s about helping people get to where they want to be,” she said. he internship is fle ible, which means those with caring responsibilities or who are unable to work full-time can still take part. “Often, the reason people aren’t in graduate-level jobs is that there are
so many barriers in the way – it’s all so competitive. Perhaps a person’s digital skills aren’t very broad in a professional setting, so we help with that and things like writing CVs, job applications and research skills, as well as AI competency. Elevate gives people the practical skills to have the right experience in a working environment and to feel confident while they’re there. “Most employers expect people to arrive prepared to operate at a high level, which may not be realistic for all graduates. e offer one to one advice and guidance while they’re in the programme and regularly check in with them so they get that wraparound support.” The university is looking to expand the number and variety of businesses it works with through its Elevate programme. “The internships need to be at a graduate level, but we’re open to a range of different employers, said Hermione. “The university offers courses in business, finance, healthcare, technology, hospitality and tourism. “As part of the programme, we cover the salaries of the interns on the scheme so there’s minimal risk to employers. It’s about offering experience, time and resource to support people when they come into work and we make every effort to minimise the challenges. “We work with businesses to understand their expectations – what’s included in the job description – and we weave that into the application. Before we send interns out to an employer, they attend a boot camp with us to ensure they have all the skills they need. “It’s about giving people a safe space to figure things out it’s K not to get things right first time. “We’re keen to connect with employers who need extra pairs of hands over a three-month period to help people go on and be successful in their careers.” key details ou can find out more about stud ying at the University Of Sunderland In London online or via its open day on September 12. Employers interested in participating in the Elevate programme can email Hermione with enquiries via hermione.penny@sunderland.ac.uk Go to london.sunderland.ac.uk for more information
Scan this code to find out more about the university
Wharf Life Aug 12-26, 2026 wharf-life.com
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Isle Of Dogs - Poplar - Blackwall - Leamouth
3-months
Length of the paid internships on offer to University Of Sunderland In London graduates via the Elevate programme
The University Of Sunderland In London’s Hermione Penny is passionate about helping its graduates find their way to the careers they want
The university is based at Harbour Exchange on the Isle Of Dogs Images by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
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Wharf Life Aug 12-26, 2026 wharf-life.com
Crossword - Sudoku
Sudoku
Take a break from that phone How to play To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers one to nine such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely. More to play You can find more Sudoku puzzles and a wide selection of other brainteasers available to download for free at puzzles.ca last issue’s solution Jul 29-Aug 12
Notes
crossword beating the
Cryptic
Notes
hat professional writers create, we hear (5) 2. They walk like a duck (8) 3. About that US small coin? It wasn’t long ago (6) . ounds like we’re paying for the load 5. Not one of the aristocracy is endowed with honour (7) 6. Slim craft hides a propulsion method not used (10) 9. Diner with repose has a golden diatribe (10) 12. This jam must be kept (8) . tudy of animal reservation? (7) 16. A head for drink? (6) . atery descent for nightclubs (5) 20. Tied to Mr Atkins’ Plan? It’s confusing
1. Cathy’s other half (10) 7. Internet-wide (5) 8. Assessing (7) 10. Oliver or Thomas? (8) . nique occasion 13. Renter (6) 15. French Highlands (6) . Roman poet 18. Biscuits (8) 21. Breathing device (7) 22. Come in (5) 23. Supporting both sides (10)
Down 1. 2. 3. . 5. 6.
Set by Everden
Silent Marx Brother (5) Permitting (8) Bargain (6) ithout fat US sitcom (7) Imaginative creations (10) 9. Old London Monastery (10) 12. Fences (8) . apital of Kenya 16. Charm (6) 19. Mythical giant (5) . egetable
Quick Solution
.
Plug socket for slideshow? (10) 7. Don’t approach this empty place (5) 8. Disco frequenter makes a hit (7) 10. Lies to make you grin? A confusing tipple (8) 11. Bb or C#? They’ll open stuff 13. 17. Australian magic man? (6,2,2) 15. Medic on track to be a rebel? Find them (6) 17. See 13 acc. 18. Trick one who is partial and think about it (8) 21. Car horn to be heard in south London? (7) 22. A dance for a bird (almost)? (5) 25. Sounds like upright purchasers are looking on (10)
Across: 1 Heathcliff; 7 Viral; 8 Grading; 10 Cromwell; 11 Once; 13 Tenant; 15 Massif; 17 Ovid; 18 Amaretti; 21 Snorkel; 22 Enter; 23 Bipartisan. Down: 1 Harpo; 2 Allowing; 3 Haggle; 4 Lean; 5 Friends; 6 Evocations; 9 Greyfriars; 12 Barriers; 14 Nairobi; 16 Amulet; 19 Titan; 20 Okra.
1.
Across
Cryptic Solution
Down
Quick
Across: 1 Powerpoint; 7 Avoid; 8 Clubber; 10 Riesling; 11 Keys; 13&17 Wizard Of Oz; 15 Contra; 18 Consider; 21 Tooting; 22 Raven; 23 Bystanders. Down: 1 Prose; 2 Waddlers; 3 Recent; 4 Onus; 5 Noblest; 6 Narrowboat; 9 Restaurant; 12 Conserve; 14 Zoology; 16 Noggin; 19 Dives; 20 Diet.
Across
whether you’re cryptic sleuth or synonym solver in it for quick wins, this should satisfy
Wharf Life Aug 12-26, 2026 wharf-life.com
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Rotherhithe - Deptford - Bermondsey
£5
Price for a Super Early Bird ticket to Underground Comedy, normally £15
The audience is promised a show packed with amusement and facts to share later on
what’s on
things to do, places to go, people to see Where? Deptford Lounge Deptford
EVENT | Deptford Scratch: Link Up This networking event is being held for global majority artists to connect selected writers with actors and directors to cast their pieces. Sept 1, 6.30pm, free, thealbany.org.uk Where? Badger Badger Deptford
EVENT | Board Game Social Groups and individuals are invited to attend with games staff on hand to guide players through the evening. What will you play next? Sept 2, 6.30pm-11pm, £8, badgerbadger.org Where? Vagabond Urban Winery Canada Water
what lies
WINE | Tour + Tasting With glass in hand, guests are invited for an hour-long tour of the brand’s Canada Water winery including a tasting of four wines. Sundays, 2pm, from £29, vagabondwines.co.uk
how Underground Comedy promises a deep dive into all things subterranean within the Brunel Museum’s shaft by Jon Massey
S
tand-up is set to return to the Brunel Museum next month, with tickets considerably cheaper for those organised folk able to consult their diaries and book ahead. Underground Comedy promises three hours of gags and routines themed around, well, “the underground” and hosted deep down in the institution’s historic tunnel shaft. To that end, the museum has assembled a line up of comics, university researchers and experts
to tackle topics including engineering, subterranean life, fossils and ancient artefacts. This blend of humour and education will be hosted by Steve Cross, known for Science Showoff and the Philosophy Playdate podcast. The evening will be headlined by comedian Iszi Lawrence. The author, podcaster and history presenter is perhaps known best as the host of The Forum on the BBC World Service, as co-host of Making History with Tom Holland and Your Place Or Mine with Shaun Keaveny, both on Radio Four. The show promises amusement
be quick
and a full stack of facts for audience members to amaze their friends and relatives with after. key details Underground Comedy is set to take place at the Brunel Museum on Wednesday, September 23. The gig runs from 6pm-9pm with tickets starting at £5 for Super Early Bird. Go to thebrunelmuseum.com for more information
Scan this code to find out more about the gig
You’ll need to move super fast, but there’s just time to catch Mouthful at The Pen Theatre in South Bermondsey. Pickle Jar kicks off its comedy nights with a show on July 31 at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £11.55 thepentheatre.com Scan this code to find out more about Mouthful or to book tickets to see the show want more? @wharfwhispers
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Shows to book early for at Greenwich Theatre in September, October and November
how booking early for these dates at Greenwich Theatre is wise if you want to secure a place in the crowd by Jon Massey
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ometimes shows come up at venues in this area that are likely to attract rapid ticket sales. At Wharf Life, one of our goals is that readers don’t miss out on things they’d like to see, so to that end we’re previewing a series of events featuring well-known faces at Greenwich Theatre a bit earlier than we normally would. Dom Joly September 17, 7pm The comedian brings Trigger Happy TV - The 25th Anniversary Tour to south-east London featuring favourites from the original television series. Expect a giant phone, a gang of squirrels, a morris dancer, a traffic warden and, of course, a giant snail. ● Tickets from £46.50 Jimmy Nail October 3, 7.30pm Having sold out one date at the venue, a few tickets remain for Jimmy’s Stories And Songs tour, featuring the Crocodile Shoes singer’s voice and a piano as he looks back on his career. Worth moving fast on this one. ● Tickets from £39
John Lydon November 1, 7.30pm Having sold out the theatre last year the former Sex Pistols and current Public Image Ltd frontman brings I Could Be Wrong, I Could Be Right to Greenwich. This spoken word show features his views on life, music and more. Expect a sharp dose of controversy. ● Tickets from £36.50 Shaun Ryder November 8, 7.30pm The Happy Mondays and Black Grape frontman also has a spoken word tour in the offing. Those attending Happy Mondays - And Fridays and Saturdays And Sundays can expect tales of excess, improbable truths and cutting quips. ● Tickets from £31.50 key details Greenwich Theatre, located on Crooms Hill, offers a varied programme of shows and events. Full listings and ticket details can be found online. For more information go to greenwichtheatre.org.uk Scan this code to find out more about the shows
dates for the
Wharf Life Aug 12-26, 2026 wharf-life.com
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Greenwich - Peninsula - Woolwich
John Lydon is set to
what’s on
return to Greenwich Theare
things to do, places to go, people to see Where? Old Royal Naval College Greenwich
STAGE | A Midsummer Night’s Dream Four Forty Theatre will be putting a girdle about the Queen Mary Courtyard in this irreverent, sharply funny and imaginative staging of the Bard’s work. Aug 27, 6.30pm, £23, ornc.org
Shaun Ryder
Jimmy Nail
Where? Greenwich Theatre Greenwich
STAGE | Frankenstein British Youth Music Theatre present a new musical version of Shelley’s enduring tale performed by a “ferocious cast” of youngsters. Ages 7+ Aug 28-30, times vary, from £11.50, greenwichtheatre.org.uk Where? Woolwich Works Woolwich
KIDS | Boppin’ Bunnies Suitable for ages 0-5 this music show for babies, toddlers and families returns to the Works. Expect a range of instruments, singing, dancing and more... Aug 29, 10.30am, £13, woolwich.works
catch it
The Greenwich + Docklands International Festival runs from August 21 until September 6 with a packed programme across east and south-east London. Performances are outdoor and free to attend festival.org Dom Joly
Scan this code to read Wharf Life’s full preview of the festival and get diary dates down for the highlights want more? @wharfwhispers
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Wharf Life Aug 12-26, 2026 wharf-life.com
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Traders will be selling a wide range of merchandise and products at the event in September Those with tattoos and
Seeing historic tattooing methods sit alongside the skill of today’s artists show just how diverse and collaborative this community has become
admirers are equally welcome
Martin McIver, Big London Tattoo Show
how the Big London Tattoo Show is set to bring its fifth edition to Excel in Royal Docks with more than 500 artists by Jon Massey
M
aking permanent marks on one’s body with ink is nothing new. We know, thanks to Ötzi The Iceman, a naturally preserved mummy from about 3,300 BCE with more than 60 distinct lines and crosses on his body, that people have been engaging in such practices for thousands of years. But it’s reasonable to suppose that never at any time in human history have so many individuals chosen to decorate themselves in this way. Next month, east London is set to host a major celebration of the artform when Excel in Royal Docks hosts the Big London Tattoo Show. Running from September 4-6, the event is set to showcase more than 500 artists at the UK’s largest convention of its kind. Visitors can book in to get inked, explore different styles and approaches and enjoy entertainment including fire shows, BMX stunts, magic, fairground rides and exhibitions. There will also be street food and drinks on offer as well as a free vintage game and pinball arcade to explore. The event will feature more than 50 traders selling custom merchandise with the chance to screen print posters and T-shirts available. Among the artists showing their work will be Ate Wamz, an artist known for using traditional Filipino batok techniques and Martin Kubala, a fine art practitioner who focuses on the natural world in his highly detailed pieces. Also on the bill will be Jonny Ransom, a blackout tattoo specialist, Anthony Lennox whose designs combine surrealism and impactful colour and Carter Hewlett who creates shiny, metallic chrome effects with the needle. Martin McIver, festival director said: “Every tattoo has a story, and
that’s what we are here to celebrate. Reaching a fifth anniversary is no small feat for a live event of this magnitude. “We’re welcoming over 500 artists from across the globe, thousands of attendees, and filling 14,000 square metres at the Excel. “Each artist brings their own traditions and techniques, carrying those cultures right into the heart of London. “Seeing historic tattooing methods sit alongside the skill of today’s artists shows just how diverse and collaborative this community has become. “And you don’t need a tattoo to appreciate the art form. Whether you’re covered head to toe or simply curious, we welcome everyone to experience the biggest tattoo art event in the UK.” Jess Maciel, commercial manager added: “London has always been one of the world’s most influential tattoo cities, and this year’s show will be our biggest. “We’re bringing together an incredible line-up of international artists, industry leaders, and tattoo enthusiasts for a weekend that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the culture that connects us all. “Whether you’re getting tattooed, meeting your favourite artists, or simply experiencing the energy of the community, this is an event you won’t want to miss.”
The event includes a packed entertainment programme over the weekend
key details The Big London Tattoo Show is set to take place at Excel London from September 4-6. Entry times vary daily, with tickets costing £27.75 for the Friday and £38.75 on Saturday and Sunday. Children under 14 go free. Go to biglondontattooshow.com
Scan this code to find out more about the event
Visitors can book time with their favourite artist
Wharf Life Aug 12-26, 2026 wharf-life.com
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Royal Docks - Canning Town
More than 500 artists will be showcasing their
what’s on
work at the Big London Tattoo
things to do, places to go, people to see
Show at Excel in September
Where? The Cause Silvertown
CLUB | Body Movements After Dark - 2026 Audiences can expect more than 50 emerging and established queer, non-binary and trans artists to soundtrack this event held to take up space. Aug 30, 10pm-6am, from £17, supportthecause.co.uk Where? Excel London Royal Victoria Dock
EVENT | Connected Britain 2026 Attend the event for all things digital infrastructure with a strong focus on what the UK will need to serve businesses and communities in the future. Sept 9-10, 8am or 8.30am, registration, excel.london Where? Fold Canning Town
CLUB | Alien Communications 7th Birthday Enjoy the extra-terrestrials plus beats and joy from the likes of Andrew James Gustav, Anna Wall, Anthony Rothe, De La Reef and Ste Roberts. Aug 28, 111.59pm-8am, from £28.75, ra.co
inked
see it
Coming to Cody Docks Lighting Up The Lea event on September 19, from 11am-6pm Common Threads is an exploration of calico and the pigment Prussian Blue and their history in east London by artist Remiiya Badru codydock.org.uk
Images supplied by Big London Tattoo Show
Scan this code to read our interview with Remiiya to find out more about Common Threads at Cody Dock want more? @wharfwhispers
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Wharf Life Aug 12-26, 2026 wharf-life.com
6,600
Participants in Sadler’s Wells East’s free lunchtime dance classes over its first year
how The Dance Floor at Sadler’s Wells East offers free weekly classes and an open space to get moving by Jon Massey
A
fresh programme of free dance classes is set to begin at Sadler’s Wells East in September. Held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from September 14, the initiative takes place on The Dance Floor at the East Bank venue, a deliberately public-facing space on the ground floor that looks out over the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. “In our first year we had more than 6,600 people participate in these classes,” said Natasha Anderson. “And that’s just one of the ways we use the space. “Creating The Dance Floor when Sadler’s Wells East opened was done with the vision that dancing in the foyer, on the stage and in the rehearsal rooms upstairs are all the bread and butter of what we do. “It’s positioned by the window so there are lots of people passing by who see what’s going on and come in to take a look. “The floor feels like our most welcoming space, so we spend a lot of time thinking about the dance styles we want to showcase on it, the type of artists we’ll feature and what we’re going to teach people.” As Sadler’s Wells head of community engagement, Natasha is tasked with reaching out beyond the organisations’ walls to connect with residents, organisations and visitors, with The Dance Floor central to those efforts in Stratford. “People might just stop by to visit the café or the toilets at Sadler’s Wells East,” she said. “No matter how you come into this building, we want you to feel welcome and that this space is for you. “The Dance Floor is our shop window and it’s one we’re really proud of, whether that’s the classes we’re hosting or the performances we’ve programmed.” From September 14, there will be free lunchtime classes three times a week, this season covering Afro-Caribbean Fusion, Funky Social Dance
and Reggae + Soul Line Dance. These are suitable for all ages, but under-18s must be accompanied by an adult. “I tell people to expect the unexpected in terms of how they’re going to feel,” said Natasha. “People who are dancing for the first time often come with hesitation and trepidation, but they leave with such big smiles on their faces because they’ve had so much fun. “It’s been a place where friendships have started – those interactions are so important for mental health, as well as the physical benefits of getting on the floor and dancing. “There are so many joyful things that happen to your body when you move to music – serotonin levels rise and it makes you feel good. “We work with a pool of really talented teachers who work in a variety of different styles. The important thing for us is to set a bar for positivity – that’s really important. “I encourage as many people as possible to take part in these classes, including our own staff. They can be a real jumping off point for people to discover what they like and then to find other places to dance too. “New this term will be the Reggae + Soul Line Dancing – it’s something that’s really big in the States. We ran a trial session in June and it went down really well. People might know the steps to Candy from parties, but there so much more to explore.”
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hat sentiment is one that also extends to The Dance Floor’s wider programme – for example, its key role as a stage for The Music Is Black Festival’s series of Music free live weekend performances that have been taking place this summer. Natasha said: “The community groups we work with use it as a performance space too and we’ve had some really lovely feedback. “For a lot of the groups we work with, getting the support, the care, being heard, being seen and respected, has been really amazing. We’ve even had
holding the
Dance classes are offered in a range of styles
Wharf Life Aug 12-26, 2026 wharf-life.com
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Stratford - Mile End - Bow - Hackney Wick
It’s been a place where friendships have started – those interactions are so important for mental health, as well as the physical benefits
what’s on
things to do, places to go, people to see Where? Cart And Horses Stratford
Natasha Anderson, Sadler’s Wells
Natasha said The Dance Floor was at the heart of what Sadler’s Wells East offers the local community Image by The Capsule LDN
some dancers ending up on stage because they performed here on The Dance Floor and were seen by artists putting on shows here. “We also use it in our work with schools across east London for our regular Creative Classroom sessions. “We have set times when anyone can come and use the space called The Floor Is Yours – people just need to sign in and then they can get moving.” Natasha, who worked for the Barbican before joining Sadler’s Wells, said she especially enjoyed watching young children dancing with their adults at the regular Family Freestyle sessions, which are also free but need to be booked in advance. She said: “Early development is so important. These are for kids aged 2-4 but the sessions aren’t a drop-off. We want the parents, grandparents and carers to dance with their toddlers. “We teach them how to dance with their child. Especially the older generation love it.” key details Free lunchtime classes run at The Dance Floor in Sadler’s Wells East on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 1pm-2pm, starting on September 14. They are free to join, with participants simply registering on arrival at the venue’s Welcome Desk. Class listings are available online. Family Freestyle sessions take place on Thursdays, from September 14 and are also free but must be booked in advance, suitable for ages 2-4 accompanied by an adult. You can also find the full programme of events taking place on The Dance Floor via Sadler’s Wells’ website. Go to sadlerswells.com Scan this code to find out more about The Dance Floor
Natasha Anderson Image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life
Image by Fly Kid All images by Sylvie Belbouab except where stated
GIG | Lesbian Bed Death Expect “visceral, high-voltage rock and unapologetic energy” from the headliner with support from Sub Atomic Strangers and Vulva. Sept 5, 7pm, £14.30, cartandhorses.london Where? Various Locations Stratford
DANCE | Dancing City See eight free, open-air shows as the Greenwich + Docklands International Festival returns to East Bank and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Sept 5, times vary, free, festival.org Where? Stratford East Stratford
STAGE | Bloodsport: After Helen Of Troy Aptly timed, perhaps, given the success of The Odyssey, Ava Pickett’s latest play unpicks the true cost of a woman’s choice to leave her life. Sept 3-Oct 10, times vary, from £10, stratfordeast.com
be quick
The Music Is Black Festival is set to return to East Bank with Queer Frequencies – a series of free performances at various venues showcasing the talents of LGBTQIA+ performers. August 22-23, from noon queenelizabetholympicpark.co.uk Scan this code to find out more about Queer Frequencies, including a full line-up of performers want more? @wharfwhispers
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Wharf Life Aug 12-26, 2026 wharf-life.com
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