4 brilliant things to do this June

Take in an opera, see fabulous fashion at Chatsworth and refresh your history knowledge this month

Image: Martin Cook

Check out Chalke History Festival in Salisbury

This major celebration of all things historical takes place in Broad Chalke, with a host of events for history buffs to enjoy. Hear Bettany Hughes discuss the seven wonders of the ancient world and Tracy Borman reveal the secrets of royal palaces. In addition, experience ‘living history’, including a time traveller’s kitchen, insights from the Napoleonic Wars, the construction of an Iron Age house and more.

Chalke History Festival, Broad Chalke, Salisbury, 24–30 June

Tickets available at chalkefestival.com

Hear the hidden stories behind blue plaques

A new podcast hosted by bestselling author Kassia St Clair (who wrote The Secret Lives of Colour and The Golden Thread: How Fabric Changed History) taps into the story of a cultural icon in each episode. Kassia asks key figures to talk about a blue plaque that has touched their hearts. From broadcaster Matt Cain discussing Alan Turing to novelist Val McDermid on crime author Josephine Tey, each 35-minute episode promises to teach you something new.

Season one of The Blue Plaque Pod is available on all major podcasting platforms.

Image: © Glyndebourne Productions Ltd/Photo: Mike Hoban

Experience Cleopatra and Caesar like never before

Dubbed ‘Bollywood meets Baroque’, Giulio Cesare is a dazzling reimagining of Handel’s most popular opera, with a 21st-century twist. Featuring Aryeh Nussbaum Cohen as Giulio Cesare, Louise Alder as Cleopatra and elaborate costuming from Brigitte Reiffenstuel, this is sure to be a performance like no other, set against the stunning backdrop of Glyndebourne.

Giulio Cesare, part of Glyndebourne Festival, Sussex, selected dates from 23 June–23 August.

Tickets available at glyndebourne.com

Image: Courtesy Erdem

Take a tour of first-class fashion at Chatsworth

Join an expertly guided tour of a new exhibition at Chatsworth House, which explores how Chatsworth’s archives – and ‘Debo’, Deborah Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire (1920–2014) – inspired the latest collection by celebrated fashion designer Erdem. Working with the archives, historic textiles and samples of the Duchess’s own wardrobe, the designer has created an ode to her life and legacy. It is presented alongside letters, objects, photographs and an original voice recording of the Duchess, as well as a portrait of her by Lucian Freud. A highlight of the tour is the Alcove Bedroom, which features the Duchess’s legendary jewellery collection, alongside the luxurious bejewelled garments it inspired. Tickets include a 45-minute guided tour with members of the textile team.

Erdem: Creating a Collection Tour at Chatsworth, 24 June, 29 July, 15 August, 10–10.45am

Tickets available via chatsworth.org

Find out more

For more inspiring arts activities see The Arts Society Magazine, available exclusively to members and supporters of The Arts Society (to join see theartssociety.org/member-benefits). And for more online sign up at theartssociety.org/signup