Poussin and the Dance, National Gallery, London, until 2 January
Here’s a surprising take on the 17th-century French painter who is known more for poise and discipline than for movement and abandon, says Laura Cumming in The Observer. “Bacchus and his cavorting retinue of centaurs, satyrs and naked nymphs are in constant motion and yet spellbindingly still”, thanks to the artist’s “extraordinarily precise conceptual engineering”. The antiques that inspired Poussin are shown alongside his paintings and drawings. £12.
Natural History Museum Ice Rink, London, until 16 January
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the Natural History Museum, where the annual ice rink has just opened for the last time – the museum’s five-acre garden is being transformed into a biodiversity hub. You’re guaranteed Insta-worthy pictures next to the 30ft Christmas tree and twinkling lights, and there are food and drink pop-ups for a spot of après-skate. From £12.65, or £8.80 for children.
No need to book
Man Is an Animal, Messums Wiltshire, Tisbury, until 16 January
This is the most extensive collection of large-scale sculptures by Dame Elisabeth Frink to be exhibited since her death in 1993. On display in the Tithe Barn, with a floor size of a third of an acre, this exploration of man’s capability for cruelty and compassion really packs a punch. Free entry for members; £10 for a single visit or £50 a year.
Book ahead
Life of Pi, Wyndham’s Theatre, London, 15 November to 27 February
A huge success at the Sheffield Crucible before the pandemic hit, this spellbinding production based on Yann Martel’s Booker-winning novel follows boy and beast on an epic sea voyage, using puppetry and state-of-the-art visuals. From £27.50.