OUT OF OFFICE
DEGAS AT THE ROYAL ACADEMY
The great French Impressionist artist (though he rejected the term) is the latest Master to receive a retrospective at the Royal Academy. Opening this weekend, the exhibition focuses on Degas’ most famous subject matter: ballet dancers. In pastels, drawings and paintings, Degas explored the capacity for movement and expression of the body, as well as the style and atmosphere of the ballet world in late 19th century Paris. Until 11 Dec. www.royalacademy.org.uk
POLIAKOFF RETURNS TO THE STAGE
Stephen Poliakoff is a writer and director best known for his elegant, intellectually-minded TV dramas. My City is his first play in over a decade, making its debut this week at the Almeida theatre, and examines the meeting between an inspiring school teacher and two of her former pupils. Tracey Ullmann and David Troughton star. Until 5 Nov. www.almeida.co.uk
ADAM HILLS LIVE
The popular Australian comedian Adam Hills is set to appear at the Soho Theatre performing an hour of spontaneous, ad-libbed stand up. Hills is the consumate comedy performer and bringer of good vibes. 19 Sept-1 Oct. wwwsohotheatre.com