This is a sponsored competition on behalf of the National Army Museum.
The latest pop-up from the National Army Museum aims to give visitors a taster of life as a WWI soldier. Don't, though, begin to think this will involve trenches, mud and lots of fighting; this is a pop-up to imitate the Every Man's Club - the venue that provided entertainment to soldiers during their downtime away from the frontline. Londonist readers have the chance to win tickets to this fabulous event at Spitalfields on 19 November, which will be a history lesson with a difference.
The Every Man's Club was started in 1915 by British Army Chaplain Tubby Clayton. Described as 'a haven from the hell of the trenches', Tubby who wanted to create a place where soldiers could relax when they weren't in battle. People from every rank were welcome - hence the name - and could come and be entertained by cabaret acts and have a bite to eat. Later renamed Talbot House, the Every Man's Club was a highlight for WWI soldiers, who had to endure the harsh realities of trench warfare. Thankfully, the 2016 pop-up of the club does not involve any of the wartime nasties, but instead gives you all the best bits of the soldiers' experiences.
Families and children will enjoy the daytime happenings at the Every Man's Club, where there will be a magic show and illusion act to wow audiences both young and old. Hear stories from WWI, take part in a hands-on activity, learn about Talbot House and watch a screening of the Happy Hoppers film before stopping for typical club grub of egg and chips. Parents rejoice, as an added bonus is the fact that tickets for this event are free via a ballot.
The lights will dim as evening approaches, and the Every Man's Club will turn into a lively adults-only shindig from 8-10pm. Music-hall entertainment and activities are on the cards, and a fully-stocked bar will be raring to go. For £10 (or £7.50 for concessions), guests will gain entry to this authentic venue, a free drink on arrival, a snack of egg and chips and a stunning cabaret show. Titled 'Pack up your troubles' this one of a kind performance features a singer and a musician who plays 10 different instruments throughout the night - now that is multitasking For those who are more historically inclined, there will also be the chance to learn about the realities of WWI, and discover more about the club's founder, Tubby.
If this sounds like a history class you'd like to be part of, it's your lucky day as we're giving you the chance to win some tickets to this limited edition Every Man's Club pop-up. Choose from either guaranteed entry to one of the daytime sessions for a family of up to five, or two tickets to the evening event, including food, a drink and entertainment. Good luck!
Every Man's Club will pop-up at Spitalfields on Saturday 19 November. Family sessions will run 1-3pm and 4-6pm, and the adults evening event from 8pm-10pm. Find out more about the club here.
