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This week is Refugee Week, when organisations across London will be hosting events to celebrate the contribution of refugees to the UK. We've rounded up five events you won't want to miss.
Moving Stories at the British Museum
The theme of this year's Refugee Week is 'welcome'. With that in mind, the British Museum is inviting people to learn about the positive contribution refugees have made to the UK at this free evening event. There will be live music, spoken word, theatrical performances, and drop-in workshops where you can take part in discussions and learn the facts about the refugee crisis, create artwork to add to a large installation in the Great Court, or help make classroom materials for students in Nigeria. British Museum, Great Russell Street, WC1B 3DG. June 24, 6pm-8.30pm. Free.
Yoga for Refugees
It's International Yoga Day (yes, that's a thing) on June 21, so this event is calling on all yogis to dig deep and get involved with this yoga-themed fundraiser, which aims to raise enough money to support 250 women and children in crisis. As well as a two-hour yoga session, there will be music from Rudimental member Amir Amor, free vegan food, guest speakers and a raffle. Lindley Hall (at Royal Horticultural Halls), Elverton St, SW1P 2QW. June 21, 5.30pm–9.30pm. £50. Get tickets.
London Contemporary Orchestra
Composers from the Royal College of Music and London Contemporary Orchestra players will join forces with over 50 talented choral singers for a free performance to mark World Refugee Day. The performance will take place underground, in the unlikely location of the Exhibition Road pedestrian tunnel in Kensington. Book your free tickets by emailing tickets@intransitfestival.co.uk. June 20, 7.30pm.
Make a Difference: an Evening for Refugees
This event is all about finding practical ways to make a difference to refugees' lives. There will be speakers including Shadow Minister for Human Rights and MP for Hammersmith Andy Slaughter, testimonies from refugees, stalls by local organisations that support refugees and a photo exhibition by asylum seekers in the Calais refugee camp. Hammersmith Town Hall, King Street, W6 9JU. June 20, 6pm–8.30pm.
The Orchestra of Syrian Musicians with Damon Albarn
As a result of the ongoing conflict, many Syrian musicians have been forced to leave their country. This includes the Orchestra of Syrian Musicians' principal conductor, Issam Rafea, as well as other members of the orchestra. This concert will bring them back together again, alongside Blur frontman Damon Albarn, to celebrate the music and culture of Syria. June 25, 7.30pm. Get tickets.