Start the new year by looking at a London landmark in a new light with acclaimed theatre company dreamthinkspeak. It brings its mix of film, installation and live performance to previously unseen spaces of King's College and Somerset House in February and March, with In the Beginning Was the End (until 30 March). Inspired by Leonardo Da Vinci, the book of Revelation and mechatronics, the production reveals a poignant vision of a world that is either on the verge of collapse or the brink of rebirth.
The National Portrait Gallery will exhibit Man Ray Portraits from 7 February until 27 May. The show explores the artist's role in the dada and surrealist movements, his revolutionary photographic techniques and the portrayal of his friends, lovers and contemporaries.
Another groundbreaking artist is showcased at Tate Modern, with Lichtenstein: A Retrospective (21 February-27 May). Discover 125 of Roy Lichtenstein's most definitive pieces and explore the influence that comic books and advertising had on his style, which helped to shape pop art.
Another feast for the senses comes in the form of Rapunzel (29-30 March), presented by BalletLORENT and Sadler's Wells. The backstage team is just as stellar as the dance talent: it is written by poet laureate Carol Ann Duffy, while music comes from Doctor Who's Murray Gold and costumes are designed by Game of Thrones' Michele Clapton.
And come the spring and summer, there's much more to be enjoyed. From 23 March to 28 July the V&A delves into the enduring influence of a pop legend with David Bowie Is. The first international retrospective of the singer's extraordinary career will feature handwritten lyrics, costumes, photography, film, set designs and instruments.
For more music, head to Southbank Centre. The Rest Is Noise takes place throughout 2013. The festival features nearly 100 concerts, performances, films and debates as it examines how war, race, sex and politics shaped the music of the 20th century.
Finally, as the nights draw in, the BFI Southbank will delve into the dark side with a four-month Gothic season, starting in October.
Explore more cultural highlights at visitlondon.com
