Opera: Passion, Power and Politics at the Victoria and Albert Museum, 30th September 2017 to 25th February 2018

Opera divides opinion. For the aficionado, opera appeals to the eye and the heart in a uniquely compelling way, but for others, operas are difficult, irrelevant and elitist, something only for the old and the rich. How then will this show featuring operas from seven different periods and styles appeal to me, the opera aficionado, and Frazer, my 16 year old nephew and opera novice?

Cézanne Portraits, The National Portrait Gallery, 26th October 2017 to 11th February 2018

A pivotal figure in the history of western art, Cézanne is best known for still-lifes and landscapes. But throughout his life, Cézanne also painted portraits of those closest to him – his wife, family, friends and himself. These portraits though divide opinion. For some, Cézanne captures the physical presence of his sitters. But for others, these portraits are not likenesses, but studies drained of life by obsessional deconstruction. This exhibition successfully provides the opportunity to enjoy these works but fails to offer any new insights into Cézanne’s paradoxical portraits.