With the announcement of a second UK-wide lockdown in November, many plans for a relatively normal end to the year went out the window. But as the world grows more used to the ‘new normal’, there emerge more ways to entertain ourselves even if we’re stuck at home.
If you're looking for some diverting ways to spend your time in the rundown to Christmas, we've got you covered with a pick of the best online events from around the country and treats that can be delivered straight to your door, from world-class opera to the best of Italian fashion.
Don Giovanni at the Royal Opera House
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Like many arts institutions, the Royal Opera House has been exploring online alternatives to its normally busy performance schedule since first having to close its doors in March. Among the offerings available to stream on-demand is this production of a Mozart favourite, the dramatic retelling of the downfall of legendary libertine and seducer Don Juan. Kasper Holten’s production of Don Giovanni is a luscious and high-tech imagining of this classic tale of good and evil with all the trappings you could want from a night at the opera – intrigue, murder, ghosts and more.
The Affordable Art Fair launched in London’s Battersea Park in October 1999, connecting collectors and enthusiasts with old favourites, hidden gems and the next generation of up-and-coming artists in a relaxed and friendly environment. While 2020’s restrictions have prevented the event being held in a physical space this year, the organisers are instead launching the first Affordable Online Art Fair. Transporting you virtually to 50 international galleries where you can browse the artworks on sale, the fair also offers an engaging programme of talks and tours for you to enjoy wherever you are.
As experts in sustainable travel and wellness, offering a variety of hotels, spas, resorts and experiences to choose from, Six Senses is only too aware that many people are not in the position to travel this year. But we all still need a way to relax, unwind and focus on ourselves, which is why the brand has launched At Home with Six Sense, offering meditation guides, recipes, workouts and more via Facebook Live and its website to help you find a dose of serenity in an uncertain time.
The events of 2020 have frequently served to curtail our enjoyment of some of the finer things in life. Fortunately, Sotheby’s is still here to help us enjoy some luxury even in the heart of lockdown. Wine lovers (or ‘oenophiles’, if you want to get technical) won’t want to miss out on the Fine Wines from France and Beyond featuring A Great Cellar auction, including an eclectic selection from across the globe, as well to benchmark offerings from Bordeaux and Burgundy, that you can add to your collection.
Italy has long been regarded as the home of style and sophistication, and this year Mr Porter is bringing that luxury to you wherever you are. The Italian Masters collection is a one-of-a-kind collaboration with 25 of the most esteemed brands – including Missoni, Etro and Rubinacci – which celebrates craftsmanship and traditional techniques that has made them long-time industry legends. Choose from the range of men’s tailoring, casualwear, accessories, homewares and grooming to brighten up your winter.
For many of us, lockdown has proven an increasing challenge when it comes to meal times. With the best will in the world, it’s still understandable that anyone could be growing short on inspiration when it comes to preparing dinner, and takeaways and quick-and-easy options like pizzas aren’t always the healthiest choice. Fortunately, celebrated chef Yotam Ottolenghi has a new alternative for fast, hearty meals with his mail order Ottolenghi Ready range. Cooked with care and taking advantage of the latest technology to stay fresh without preservatives, these meals can be stored in your fridge or freezer until you need a treat.
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