OUT OF OFFICE
MOUNT STREET CELEBRATES
It’s party time in Mayfair’s Mount Street this evening as the oh-so-swish stretch of luxury boutiques and restaurants celebrates the 325th anniversary of the original “May Fayre” – the event from which the area gets its name. Mount Street’s resident businesses will also no doubt be raising glasses to the end of the road works that have blighted the area, which is home to William & Son, Scott’s restaurant and Loewe store among others, for the past few months. There will be morris dancers, live music, “fashion shows” and comedy. 5.30pm-8.30pm.
CHEKHOV AT THE NATIONAL
What promises to be one of the theatrical events of the year opens tonight at the National Theatre’s Olivier auditorium. Chekhov’s masterpiece, the Cherry Orchard, has been adapted by playwright Andrew Upton and directed by Howard Davies, the pair whose version of Bulgakov’s the White Guard was one of last year’s dramatic highlights. Zoe Wanamaker leads the cast as Mme Ranevskaya, the aristocratic grand dame losing her estate. Until Aug 13, National Theatre Olivier, Southbank, SE1 9PX. Tickets from £10 at www.nationaltheatre.org.uk
MADE IN CLERKENWELL
If you’re looking for a one-off piece of jewellery or a unique decorative object, today’s the day to find it at Craft Central, Clerkenwell’s centre for craft and design, which is staging an open studio event all weekend. Clerkenwell has been the traditional hub of London’s crafts scene for decades, and scores of up-and-coming designers, artisans, fashion and interiors companies are still based there. Drop in today, Friday, or Saturday to meet them in person, shop or even commission your own piece.
www.craftcentral.org.uk