London's Barbican Centre has today launched its ambitious Summer 2025 programme, promising a diverse array of events spanning its venues, public spaces, and even its car park. Kicking off in May, the season is anchored by "Frequencies," a cross-arts initiative delving into the profound power of sound and sonic experience.
"Frequencies" offers a packed schedule, including the bold new multi-sensory exhibition "Feel the Sound" (May 22nd – August 31st), and "In Pursuit of Repetitive Beats" (May 22nd – August 3rd), a world premiere of an enhanced virtual reality experience transporting audiences to an Acid House rave in 1989. The program also features "Rebel Radio" (June 1st – 30th), a month-long celebration of London’s community and pirate radio history, complete with live broadcasts from Reprezent Radio, communal listening events, and a club night hosted by Rinse FM.
Theatre enthusiasts can look forward to two major shows. The multiple Olivier Award-winning revival of "Fiddler on the Roof" (May 24th – July 19th), which enjoyed a sold-out run at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, makes its Barbican transfer. This will be followed by the London premiere of "Good Night, Oscar" (July 31st – September 21st), a darkly funny drama starring Tony Award-winner Sean Hayes, reprising his acclaimed Broadway role alongside Rosalie Craig.
The musical offerings are equally rich, with a "Summer Jazz Series" featuring luminaries like Tigran Hamasyan, Brad Mehldau Trio, and a three-night residency from Herbie Hancock marking his 85th birthday. Other highlights include "Actress x Suzanne Ciani present Concrète Waves," "Jeff Mills + London Symphony Orchestra: Blue Potential," and "Rampage: Carnival Classics 2" with the Nu Civilisation Orchestra.
Beyond the stages, the Barbican will host "Encounters: Giacometti x Huma Bhabha" (May 8th – August 10th), a major exhibition exploring the interplay between these two figurative sculptors. The popular "Outdoor Cinema" also returns from August 20th to 31st, presenting films with inventive soundscapes in the Barbican Sculpture Court.
"This summer, we invite you to pause and attune your body, your memory and your senses," said Devyani Saltzman, Director of Arts & Participation. "I hope our summer 2025 season – and our special programme 'Frequencies' – opens new ways of sensing, feeling and thinking across disciplines and perspectives."
