CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY MUSICAL ARRIVES IN LONDON

Roald Dahl’s delicious and mysterious tale of the young Charlie Bucket and the extraordinary confectioner Willy Wonka is coming to life as a musical at the Royal Drury Lane Theatre.

For those of you who are unfamiliar on the plot, the story takes place in an unknown city where Mr Willy Wonka is the owner of the greatest chocolate factory in the world. He decides to open up the doors of his factory to five privileged children. In order to choose who should be so lucky, Willy Wonka hides five golden tickets in his famous chocolate bars. These tickets are VIP access to the chocolate factory. Amongst the winners is the unsuspecting hero of the book, Charlie bucket who has grown up with stories about the factory. Nothing could prepare the winners for what was beyond the gates. The story continues with incredible and astonishing sugary delights, however not everything is a sweet as it seems. Unlike the theatre which is offering a sweet £10 off all prices for the preview performances taking place from 18 May – 24 June 2013.

The truly unmissable and exciting production of Charlie and The Chocolate Factory has inspired DUKES London to create their own version of a chocolate factory. A family fun, chocolate- themed day with DUKES London starts with afternoon tea bursting with Charlie and The Chocolate Factory themed delicious treats and ending with the exhilarating new musical. After a sugar-filled day, you and your family can also take the time to unwind in one of our luxurious suites.

Fashion Lovers Take Note as ‘Valentino: Master of Couture’ opens its doors

More than 130 delicate haute couture designs worn by top icons such as Grace Kelly, Gwyneth Paltrow and Sophia Loren, will be showcased by the Italian fashion designer, Valentino, at a new major exhibition celebrating his life and work. Valentino: Master of Couture opens its doors at the Embankment Galleries in Somerset House, The Strand today and will run until 3rd March 2013.

Valentino is the founder of SpA brand and company and his main lines include Valentino Garavani, Valentino Roma, and R.E.D Valentino. The Italian fashion guru has one simple principle when it comes to design “I know what women want, they want to be beautiful.”

Valentino has designed for princesses, first ladies and Hollywood icons and has often been described as having an ‘abundance of raw talent.’ His dresses are described as clean and modern but completely feminine.

The exhibition will be divided into three sections. The first section offers fashion lovers the opportunity to privately view Valentino’s world through photographs from his personal archive, giving an intimate portrait of his life.

In the second section, Valentino rebels against the typical fashion show by reversing the roles of the visitors and the models. Visitors will be the ones walking the catwalk to view an astounding 130 pieces of haute couture designs.

The final section then unravels the intense, yet detailed and precise processes of crafting couture, illustrated initially by the magnificent wedding dress of Princess Marie Chantel of Greece. Visitors will also be given the chance to view a select group of films that peep behind-the-scenes of being a designer.

Highlights of this exciting exhibition include the vintage dress worn by Julia Roberts when she won the Academy Award in 2001 and Jackie Onassis’ wedding dress from Valentino’s 1968 White Collection. Valentino: Master of Couture promises a voyage into the mysterious world of Italian couture.

This elite, fashionable experience is being held at Somerset House, The Strand, London WCR 1LA with tickets costing £12:50.

After enjoying some of the world’s finest fashion designs, why not pay our restaurant Thirty Six by Nigel Mendham a visit, so you can enjoy some of the world’s finest tasting cuisine too.

 

TIS THE SEASON TO BE JOLLY AT HARRODS WINE WORLD

Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without a festive tipple. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply just an enthusiast then Harrods store in Knightsbridge is offering you a chance to discover and enjoy a number of wines at the newly launched ‘Wine World.’

With on hand expert advice, you are bound to find the perfect white to accompany your Christmas Turkey or a sparkling vino to bring in the New Year.  Harrods Wine World is also offering exclusive wine tasting events complete with canapés and on hand advice to help you become an expert taster, giving you the extra confidence when purchasing wine. The experts will give you and your friends, “an introduction to production techniques, wine styles, wine regions and food and wine pairing.” However, if you prefer a glass with a little more fizz the team will also offer Champagne tasting where you can indulge in some of the world’s finest Champagnes.

Once you have selected your perfect accompaniment for the festivities, the experts will advise you on the ‘Perfect Glass’ to enhance your drinking experience to the maximum, from the ‘Vinum Pinot Noir Glass to the Eve Decanter,’ there will be the perfect match for your perfect grape.

With it being Christmas, you can take advantage of the full package and explore the range of sweet sensations Harrods has to combine with your wine. It has the Perfect Port, Charming Chocolate and Splendid Sweets, each are seductive in taste and are the perfect pairings for the ultimate Christmas treat. Amplify your taste buds, set the mood and enjoy the ‘most wonderful time of year,’ with London’s finest department store to provide everything you need to make the season jolly and bright.

For more information on Harrods Wine World, visit the website or for the ultimate experience in sophisticated drinking head to our very own Dukes Bar to try one of our world famous Martinis before heading back to one of our suites to discover what luxury really is.