The Hackney Empire is re-opening on 17 July.

The first gig will be World Music Live - featuring emerging artists such as Aruba Red, Nina and the Rajas and Woven Gold - followed the next evening (18 July) by a new music festival, Sounds Like Hackney, with West End stars, Clive Rowe and Sharon D Clarke. This evening will also include the Grand Union Orchestra AllStars, CK Gospel Choir, pianist Warren Wills and the Hackney Empire Community Choir. Visit www.hackneyempire.co.uk for full details. Tickets for Jack and the Beanstalk, the hugely successful December pantomime are also now on sale. It's a bit early but grab them while you can on 020 8985 2424.

Good to see one of Hackney's cultural highlights back in action.