Arts, Events & Culture
Art & creativity, events, design, cultural shifts
There's a palpable tension between tradition and innovation in the arts right now, as creators navigate both personal and societal challenges. Lizzo's raw performance amid controversy, the Mekons' reflections on masculinity in music, and Jilly Cooper's insistence on strong male archetypes highlight a cultural reckoning with identity and representation. Meanwhile, the vibrant resurgence of art auctions and the revival of iconic productions like 'Beetlejuice' signal a broader appetite for fresh interpretations, even as exhibitions like the one at the Museum of Homelessness confront uncomfortable truths about societal neglect. Keep an eye on how these themes of resilience and redefinition play out across various mediums.
Articles
Saros review – you’ll strafe until your thumbs hurt in this primal alien shooterSaros offers a visually striking and chaotic alien shooter experience on PlayStation 5, where players navigate a surreal landscape filled with danger and ethical dilemmas in a quest to rescue missing colonists. The game combines fast-paced action with a haunting atmosphere, reminiscent of classic sci-fi horror narratives.
The Body Builders by Albertine Clarke review – a compelling debut of mental meltdownAlbertine Clarke's debut novel, 'The Body Builders,' intricately explores a young woman's struggle with dissociation and her journey towards recovery, set against the backdrop of her troubled family dynamics and mental health challenges. The narrative's surreal elements and deep introspection offer a compelling look at identity and reality.
Half Man is a breathless, brutal drama that puts the fear of Gadd into youRichard Gadd's portrayal of Ruben Pallister in the BBC drama 'Half Man' delivers a gripping and intense performance that encapsulates the terror associated with authoritarian figures.
‘You have to reflect the language to capture people’s souls’: Martina Laird on calypso, patois and the RSCMartina Laird's journey back to her Caribbean roots inspired her to write 'Driftwood,' a family drama reflecting on Trinidadian independence, as she sought to reconnect with her identity and heritage after years of feeling stagnant in her life.
New art gallery to spotlight South Asian artistsRunjeet Singh Gallery is set to highlight the works of South Asian artists, providing a dedicated space for those influenced by the region's rich traditions and cultures.
Paul Weller on Barbie, Billie Eilish and being a granddadPaul Weller discusses his upcoming album 'Weller at the BBC 2' and shares insights on contemporary culture, including reflections on Barbie and Billie Eilish, while also embracing his role as a granddad.
Lost 1968 Morecambe and Wise episode to be broadcastA previously lost episode of the iconic 1968 Morecambe and Wise show will be broadcast, showcasing the duo's renowned fast-paced and witty performances.
‘I nearly quit to become a fencing teacher’: Iron Maiden on 50 years of heavy metal, hard living – and hopeless communication skillsIron Maiden reflects on their 50-year journey from pubs to stadiums, highlighting their resilience through the crisis-filled 1990s and their evolution as a defining force in heavy metal music.
Tammy Haddad on Barbra Streisand, Trump and DC’s A-List weekendTammy Haddad discusses the intersection of celebrity culture and politics, highlighting Barbra Streisand's influence and the dynamics of Washington D.C.'s elite social scene during a recent high-profile weekend.