Arts, Events & Culture
Art & creativity, events, design, cultural shifts
A vibrant tapestry of cultural expression is emerging, as artists navigate personal and societal tensions through their work. Lizzo's candid performances juxtapose the trials of celebrity with raw artistry, while the Mekons and Jilly Cooper explore themes of loneliness and masculinity against a backdrop of evolving societal norms. Meanwhile, the art world is experiencing a robust resurgence, reflecting a broader desire for connection and commentary, whether through the provocative lens of homelessness or the nostalgic revival of beloved musicals like 'Beetlejuice.' As these narratives unfold, they invite us to reconsider our relationships with art, identity, and the complexities of modern life.
Articles
‘It’s still a no-go area’: German author Matthias Jügler on the trauma surrounding the GDR’s ‘stolen children’German author Matthias Jügler faces backlash from officials regarding his novel 'Mayfly Season,' which explores the trauma of the GDR's 'stolen children,' highlighting the ongoing sensitivity around this historical issue in Germany.
Wozzeck: Wretches Like Us review – Berg’s harrowing opera is more adrenaline-inducing than everBerg's opera Wozzeck is revitalized through a collaboration of the London Philharmonic and Ilya Shagalov's striking video art, enhancing its already harrowing narrative with modern visuals that resonate deeply with contemporary themes of alienation and despair.
I Saw Satan at the 7-Eleven review – gross, gruesome and sometimes sweet road trip with the devilChristopher Brett Bailey's live reading of his surreal novella 'I Saw Satan at the 7-Eleven' offers a vivid and gruesome journey through modern America, blending extreme vice with moments of unexpected sweetness, though it lacks the intensity of his previous work. His unique storytelling style captivates as he navigates a bizarre road trip with the devil, showcasing his distinctive performance art.
‘We asked Billy Connolly to do 15 minutes. He said “I’ll do as long as I want”’: the sweary, shambolic all-nighter that became Comic ReliefComic Relief's origins 40 years ago were marked by a chaotic and informal gathering of British comedy talent, contrasting sharply with its current status as a major fundraising event, as recounted by key figures like Lenny Henry and Richard Curtis. The inaugural event featured memorable performances and a spirit of spontaneity that laid the groundwork for its future success.
Adjoa Andoh on Shakespeare, Bridgerton and DEI: ‘I don’t have to be the only one in the room’Adjoa Andoh emphasizes the importance of diversity in the arts, noting that her work may appear 'Black or colour-centric' due to societal silos, while also humorously highlighting her commitment to the Folger Shakespeare Library residency despite missing crucial football matches.
'I wrote The Cage to understand my brother's addiction'Tony Schumacher's new BBC One drama, 'The Cage,' explores the complexities of addiction through the lens of a personal narrative, aiming to shed light on his brother's struggles.
‘I wanted alcohol to take me to a place where I was not’: comedian John Robins on the moment he realised he had a drinking problemComedian John Robins reflects on his lifelong relationship with alcohol, revealing a turning point where he recognized his drinking problem, despite previously portraying himself as a carefree drinker in his comedy and media projects.
Bad movies, good business: how sanitised biopics became a Hollywood stapleThe rise of sanitized biopics reflects a shift in Hollywood where celebrities increasingly control their narratives and monetize their images, adapting to audience expectations post-Covid by focusing on entertainment value. Ryan Gosling's recent comments highlight this new approach, emphasizing the importance of creating appealing content to draw viewers back to theaters.
Zara Larsson’s Pop Career Had Stalled. But a Big Second Act Awaited.Zara Larsson's pop career experienced a significant revival after years of stagnation, fueled by a remix from PinkPantheress and her adaptability in the face of challenges.