Entertainment News

Reports are stating that daily sales of multi award winning singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman Patti LaBelle’s sweet potato pies are continuing to soar at retail superstore Walmart even five years after they first went viral.

According to Food & Wine, the world's largest retailer is selling more than 36,000 of the pies every day. That's the equivalent of 1,500 pies every hour or about 25 pies per minute.

The obsession began back in 2015 when James Wright, who calls himself a "superfan," taste-tested one of her sweet potato pies. He recorded his reaction and posted it on YouTube, and the hilarious video instantly went viral, garnering more than 5 million views.

Within a week, nearly every major news network and radio station in the country was talking about it, and the 21-ounce pies began selling out so fast that people began buying and re-selling the $4 pies on eBay for as much as $60.

The success of Patti’s sweet potato pie – and the resulting expansion of her personal recipe-based product line – is just one example of how Walmart has worked to transform their fresh bakery offerings. They also sell her Southern buttermilk pies, peach cobblers, and bread and banana puddings.

Birmingham Ormiston Academy (BOA) has announced that an exclusive recording of The Snow Queen, first performed at The Old Rep in December 2019, will be made available to school children across the region this Christmas.

Based on Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairy tale, the show was produced, performed and filmed by talented young students at BOA alongside leading industry professionals.

With the current Covid-19 pandemic causing many theatres to close their doors this winter, an exclusive recording of the show will now be shared with local primary and secondary schools.

The recording will be available to view from Tuesday December 1, so pupils across the region can be united in experiencing the fun and festivity of a Christmas theatre production.

Gaynor Cheshire, CEO of the BOA Group, comments: “We’re delighted that young people at schools across the region have the opportunity to enjoy this exclusive recording of The Snow Queen. We know that Christmas will feel a little different this year but we’re so excited to bring people together to watch a traditional Christmas production - it’s what makes this time of year so special! This film truly captures the magic of live theatre and we can’t wait to bring a little theatrical sparkle into the classroom.”

BOA is part of the BOA Group and a sister school to BOA Stage & Screen, a brand-new academy opening in September 2021. Located in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, BOA Stage & Screen will be a state-funded academy for 16-19 year olds specialising in technical theatre, film and broadcast production.

Gaynor Cheshire continues: “The Snow Queen production is a fantastic insight into the unique experience that BOA students can enjoy and what future pupils at BOA Stage & Screen can look forward to. We pride ourselves on giving talented young people an exceptional education as well as exciting opportunities to gain real-life, on-the-ground industry experience. It’s never been more important to invest in the next generation of creative talent and The Snow Queen is a wonderful example of what our gifted students can achieve.”

Gary Stevens, General Manager and Operations Director at The Old Rep, comments: “We were thrilled to work with students at BOA on this production of The Snow Queen. Our mission is to engage, educate and entertain the next generation of artists and theatre lovers and it’s so rewarding to work with up-and-coming talent - both on the stage and behind-the-scenes. Our doors may currently be closed, but it’s fantastic to see that the skill, passion and enthusiasm of young creative talent is still very much on show.”

The recording will be provided to primary and secondary schools free of charge, and will also be available for families to view at home. Participating schools are being asked to share photos of their special ‘Snow Queen Screenings’ on social media using the hashtag #SnowQueenChristmas.

To enjoy the exclusive recording of The Snow Queen, visit: https://www.14dd5266c70789bdc806364df4586335-gdprlock/user/imagineBOA from Tuesday 1 December 2020.

It has been announced that South African comedian, writer, producer, political commentator, actor, and television host Trevor Noah is set to host the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards on January 31, 2021.

The Recording Academy and CBS announced The Daily Show host as the master of ceremonies on.

His hosting marks the award show's return to having a comedian as front person after Alicia Keys headed up the proceedings for the past two years.

“Despite the fact that I am extremely disappointed that the Grammys have refused to have me sing or be nominated for best pop album, I am thrilled to be hosting this auspicious event,” the 36-year-old said in a statement before sharing his credentials. “I think as a one-time Grammy nominee [Trevor was nominated for Best Comedy Album last year], I am the best person to provide a shoulder to all the amazing artists who do not win on the night because I, too, know the pain of not winning the award! (This is a metaphorical shoulder, I’m not trying to catch corona). See you at the 63rd Grammys!”

Recording Academy chair and interim president/CEO Harvey Mason, Jr. added: "With a knack for keeping viewers engaged and entertained, Trevor is the perfect choice to lead us through what's sure to be an incredible evening full of music, unforgettable moments, unity and inspiration. He is a dynamic host, comedian and personality, and we're thrilled to welcome him to the Grammy stage as host of music's biggest night for the first time."

The announcement comes hours before Tuesday’s 63rd Grammy Awards nominations livestream at 12:00 p.m. ET.

The 2021 Grammy Awards will air on January 31

Birmingham Hippodrome and QDOS Entertainment present all-new, socially distanced production of Robin Hood at The Alexandra

Birmingham Hippodrome and Qdos Entertainment, producers of the city’s annual festive production, have announced that pantomime will be going ahead with an all-new production of ‘Robin Hood’ staged, for the first time in 20 years, at the nearby Alexandra. 

Starring Strictly judge the nation loves to hate, the fab-u-lous Craig Revel Horwood as The Sheriff of Nottingham, alongside the Hippodrome’s pantomime superstar Matt Slack, the legendary pairing of Richard Cadell & Sooty and the Black Country’s funniest matriarch Doreen Tipton, Robin Hood will play from 15 to 31 January 2021 for a Strictly limited run.

The socially distanced, one-act production will temporarily change venues due to Birmingham Hippodrome’s hosting of the critically acclaimed Van Gogh Alive experience.

The production is able to go ahead thanks to the support of The National Lottery, which will give thousands of theatregoers, in Birmingham and across the country, the chance to enjoy socially distanced pantomime this Christmas. The show is being staged as a result of an initiative between The National Lottery and Qdos Entertainment which is providing financial support for theatres to stage socially distanced, live pantomimes this festive season. This will make it viable for venues to open their doors to the general public, generating vital income for the theatres and helping to restore jobs while providing much-needed cheer for pantomime lovers. 

Fresh from the ballroom, Craig Revel Horwood will star as the villainous Sheriff of Nottingham and show Birmingham his real mettle as he tries to outwit Robin Hood and win the hand of the beautiful Maid Marion. Craig is a well-known face on television in the UK and now all over the world, as a judge on all 18 series of BBC1’s Strictly Come Dancing.

In 2013, Craig wrote and directed a brand-new show, Strictly Confidential that toured the UK starring familiar faces from Strictly Come Dancing. He has directed and choreographed the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour, as well as appearing as a judge.

He recently returned to his roots as a performer in musical theatre, starring as Miss Hannigan in the West End and UK touring production of Annie. Craig also choreographed and directed the UK tour of Sister Act and the Dusty Springfield musical, Son of a Preacher Man. Craig has also published three autobiographies; All Balls and Glitter, Tales from the Dance Floor and In Strictest Confidence. This autumn he released his first novel, Dances and Dreams on Diamond Street. Robin Hood marks Craig’s 12^th consecutive pantomime for producers Qdos Entertainment having starred as a Wicked Queen, a Wicked Stepmother and Captain Hook in Snow White, Cinderella and Peter Pan respectively.

He will be joined by hilarious Hippodrome funny man, Matt Slack as Robin Hood. His television credits include Casualty, Doctors and EastEnders for the BBC, ITV’s Law and Order and the feature film The Rise of the Krays. On stage he has appeared in Boogie Nights and Hot Flush on their UK tours, and in Blood Brothers in London’s West End. Matt has entertained and delighted audiences at the Hippodrome pantomime for the last seven years in roles which have won him, amongst others, the Best Comic accolade at the Great British Pantomime Awards.

Craig and Matt will be joined by television icons Richard Cadell as Will Scarlet, with his mischievous sidekick, Sooty. A star of television, stage, comics, animation and movies, Sooty made his screen debut almost 70 years ago and in that time has delighted audiences of millions worldwide with his cheeky sense of humour, jaw-dropping magic tricks and hilarious mishaps, despite not ageing whatsoever. First supported by his original owner and friend Harry Corbett (and later his son Matthew) Sooty became a regular on the BBC’s Saturday Special, and fronted his own programmes The Sooty Show and Sooty & Co.

Richard has presented Sooty on stage and television for over 20 years following Matthew’s retirement, with their programmes remaining ITVs most popular children’s show.

Joining them as Mrs Tuck is Doreen Tipton, back for her second consecutive Hippodrome pantomime, following her star turn in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs last year. In her own inimitable style, the Black Country star will showcase her dry wit, penchant for doing as little as possible and helping Robin and his Merry Men as they rob from the rich and give to the poor.

Joining them will be hilarious pantomime dame and Hippodrome regular Andrew Ryan and west end musical leading ladies Landi Oshinowo, Nicola Meehan and Lauren Chia.

Artistic Director and Chief Executive of Birmingham Hippodrome, Fiona Allan and Managing Director of Qdos Entertainment Michael Harrison, who has directed the Hippodrome pantomime for the past 10 years, said: “We’re delighted to be working together to make sure that our loyal audiences in Birmingham don’t miss out on the magic of pantomime this year.

Presenting Robin Hood at The Alexandra allows us to see two of the city’s key cultural institutions open with social distancing in place. Although on a different stage, this year’s show will be designed and created by the usual Hippodrome panto creative team, and will feature all the comedy and laughter our audiences have come to expect”.

This new production will be packed full of comedy routines, audience-safe participation and all the unmissable magic that Hippodrome audiences know and love from their annual festive pantomime in their temporary theatrical home at The Alexandra for this year only.

Lisa Mart, Theatre Director at The Alexandra added: “Words can’t quite express how thrilled we are to be working with Qdos Entertainment and our friends at Birmingham Hippodrome to bring this much loved annual tradition back to the city this festive season! This cross-venue collaboration is one of many examples of cultural organisations in Birmingham working together to provide audiences with entertainment during what has been a challenging time for the sector. We are incredibly grateful to the National Lottery for their support, without which we would not have been able to proceed. The opportunity to bring our team back to the venue to prepare for this special socially-distanced experience is the Christmas present we have all been dreaming of!”

The previously advertised production of Goldilocks and the Three Bears starring Jason Donovan and Matt Slack will be staged back at the Hippodrome in December 2021 and existing bookers have already been contacted with details of their new tickets.

The support of The National Lottery will ensure that socially distanced panto can take place this year in Birmingham, and other theatres across the UK. Up to 20,000 free tickets to pantomimes across the country, will be made available to National Lottery players to thank them for making it possible for this Christmas tradition to go ahead. National Lottery players raise on average £30M each week for Good Causes. 

This year has seen up to £600M in National Lottery funding being used by charities and organisations affected by the impact of the coronavirus outbreak across the arts, community and charity, heritage, education, environment and sport sectors.

Amnesty International UK is inviting entries for its 29th annual Media Awards, a prestigious set of awards that recognise the vital role journalists play and the serious risks they face in highlighting human rights abuses around the world. The closing date for entries is Thursday 21 January 2021 and the award ceremony will take place on Wednesday 28 April 2021.

Entries must be from a media outlet based in the UK and published or broadcast for the first time in the UK between 1 January and 31 December 2020.

Award categories:

Written News - A written word news report on a current and/or breaking story relating to a human rights issue. This can be print, online or multimedia.

Broadcast News - A film news report on a current and/or breaking story relating to a human rights issue. This can be TV or online. The entry should be no longer than 20 minutes.

Investigation - An outstanding piece of investigative journalism relating to human rights issues across all media. This can be print, broadcast, online or multimedia and may be a single report or a number of items covering the same story.

Features - A written word newspaper, magazine, online or multimedia piece that creatively explores topics, issues or stories relating to human rights.

Documentaries (TV & Film) - A full-length documentary or film that observes or reports on human rights issues. The entry should be between 20 – 120 minutes duration. These must have been broadcast or available online.

Radio & Podcasts - This can be either excerpts from a series, a full-length radio documentary or podcast, a news report or compilations from a magazine programme which observe and report on human rights issues. The whole entry (including compilations) should be between 15 – 60 minutes duration. These must have been broadcast or available online.

Photojournalism - An excellent piece of photojournalism that has been published in UK media (newspapers, magazines or online) or on a third-party website. A photograph or a series of up to 12 photographs to be submitted as a portfolio, in addition to a copy of the piece in which the pictures were originally published. This category is free to enter.

Student Journalist - For students in full-time education at a UK university, higher education or further education college at the time of publication or broadcast of their entry. Entries may have been published in print, online or broadcast, either via a student or commercial outlet.

Alternatively, it may have been produced as course work as part of media or journalism studies.

Entrants should submit one piece but may also provide links to three further pieces of work to support their entry. Personal blog posts are not eligible for entry. Finalists will be asked for evidence that they were a student at the time of publication (eg: via a reference from a tutor). This category is free to enter.

Regional Media - This category recognises excellent local reporting of global human rights stories as well as those from closer to home. It is open to print, online or broadcast entries from UK regional media outlets. This category is free to enter.

Best Use of Digital Media - For innovative/creative presentations of human rights stories using digital tools and/or multimedia techniques to creatively uncover or engage people in a human rights story or issue. Entrants must have been published for the first time or have had substantial fresh content published during 2020.

The Gaby Rado Award for New Journalist - For journalists reporting on human rights issues who have been working for five years or less in paid employment as a journalist. This award was established with the help of the family, friends and colleagues of the journalist Gaby Rado, who died in Iraq in 2003.

Entrants should submit one piece but may also provide links to three further pieces of work to support their entry. Finalists will be asked for evidence of their eligibility. This category is free to enter.

For more information on how to enter, the entry criteria and fees, visit: https://amnesty-media-awards.org.uk/

To encourage a wide range of entries, a sponsorship fund to support a limited number of entries from freelance journalists and filmmakers has established, as well as small digital and broadcast outlets. See the website for more details.

Entries to Regional Media, Photojournalism, Gaby Rado and Student Journalist categories are free and can now be submitted at: https://amnesty-media-awards.org.uk/

British musical icon Liam Gallagher is set to make a biblical return to performing with the announcement of ‘Down By The River Thames’. The one-of-a-kind virtual event will be streamed globally on Saturday, December 5, exclusively on MelodyVR.
 
Down By The River Thames will see Liam accompanied by his full band for a set broadcast from a barge travelling along the Thames. The show will include iconic songs, fan favourites and a few surprises, spanning both his all-conquering solo career and his legendary time with Oasis – some of which he hasn’t performed in years.
 
Echoing unforgettable moments from the Sex Pistols and The Clash, the explosive performance will ring out as the barge sails past some of London’s most famous landmarks. MelodyVR’s groundbreaking technology will put an international at-home audience at the heart of the action, offering a stunning visual and audio experience.
 
Liam commented: "To all my brothers and sisters around the world. I'm performing a one-off celestial live performance for you to stream, 'Down By The River Thames', on 5th December 2020. I'll be performing tracks from my two number 1 solo albums as well as some stone cold Oasis classics, some of which you haven't heard me sing for a long, long time. C'mon you know. LG x”.
 
‘Down By The River Thames’ will commence at 8pm local time via MelodyVR’s web player around the world to enable as many fans as possible to see the show.
 
Stream 1 – Saturday 5 December 8pm GMT for UK, Ireland and Europe
Stream 2 - Saturday 5 December 8pm ET for East Coast North America and South America
Stream 3 - Saturday 5 December 8pm PT for West Coast North America and Central America
Stream 4 - Sunday 6 December 8pm AEST for Australia, New Zealand and Asia

Confirmation of the ‘Down By The River Thames’ stream follows the news that a Collector Edition of Liam’s critically acclaimed #1 album ‘Why Me? Why Not’ will be released on November 27 via Warner Records. The box is a must-have collector’s edition that compiles fourteen 7” inch singles in an exquisitely designed package. It’s available to pre-order exclusively from Liam’s official store.
 
Released last year, ‘Why Me? Why Not’ fired straight to #1 to prove that Liam Gallagher’s star quality remains undeniable. The album’s biblical success included 68,000 first week sales as it outsold the remainder of the Top 5 and became 2019’s fastest selling vinyl release. It was subsequently certified Gold.
 
Earlier this year, Liam released ‘MTV Unplugged’ as he completed a hat-trick of solo UK #1 albums. Between his compelling solo career and his iconic time with Oasis, Liam has topped the Official Album Chart with eleven different records from 1994 to 2020.
 

Grace Moore, a 12-year old girl from New York, has made history as one of the youngest composers to join the New York City Philharmonic Orchestra.

Moore, who is a seventh-grade student at Poly Prep in Dyker Heights, is also enrolled in the organization’s Very Young Composers program. There, participants from the age of 8 are taught to create music.

The composition that Moore created for the program made a world premiere in a live performance by the NY Philharmonic in October.

Moore, who started showing her passion for music at the age of 2 when her mother gave her a piano, has showcased extraordinary talent.

Moreover, Moore hopes that as a woman of color, she can inspire others to create and appreciate music.

“I hope everyone follows their hobbies and do what they love,” Moore said.

Comedian, singer and TV host Des O'Connor died following a fall at his home in Buckinghamshire, in England.

A former schoolboy footballer at Northampton Town, he became known for hosting his own chat show, as well as Take Your Pick and Countdown he was also known for his friendship with Morecambe and Wise after completing his national service in the Royal Air Force.

London-born O'Connor presented his own prime-time TV shows for more than 45 years but also had success as a singer. His friendship with comedy duo Morecambe and Wise saw him mocked for his singing ability in sketches despite a successful career which included four Top 10 hits and more than 30 albums.

O'Connor appeared on stages around the world including hundreds of shows at the London Palladium.

His fame soared when he was hired to host The Des O'Connor Show, which ran on ITV from 1963 to 1971. In 1977 he began hosting Des O'Connor tonight, which started on BBC Two before moving to ITV, where it stayed until it ended in 2002.

He later hosted the Channel 4 quiz show Countdown alongside Carol Vorderman, with the pair bowing out together in 2008, and was made a CBE for his services to entertainment and broadcasting in that year's birthday honours.

Melanie Sykes, who hosted TV show ‘Today With Des And Mel’ alongside O'Connor, said it was an "education and a privilege to work with him". She wrote on Instagram: "He had talent in every fibre of his being and was stubborn as a mule. He was the full ticket as a friend and colleague."

Broadcaster Tony Blackburn said "he was a great entertainer and more importantly a very nice person", and TV presenter Gyles Brandreth described him as "the ultimate professional".

Speaking about his sketches with Morecambe and Wise, comedian David Baddiel said: "RIP Des O' Connor. It's worth remembering how brilliant he is at his own expense in these sketches."

Northampton Town Football Club also joined the tributes to their former reserve player saying: "We are very sorry to learn of the passing of Des O'Connor. Des famously played for our reserve team on a few occasions just after World War Two. Our thoughts are with all who knew Des."

Married four times, he had four daughters, Karin, TJ, Samantha and Kristina from his previous marriages, in 2007, he married long-term girlfriend Jodie Brooke Wilson, who was 37 years his junior and gave birth to their son Adam when O'Connor was 72.

He was 88.

Two years ago, Ivorian Doll was telling outrageous stories and talking about scandalous topics on her YouTube channel. Now, with the same cheeky energy and quick wit, she's bulldozed her way into the drill music scene.

Real name Vanessa Mahi, the 22-year-old artist talks about the "mad transition". The Ivorian Doll YouTube channel contained unfiltered stories about being cheated on or having fights.

It was "the kind of stuff people talk about with their friends" and brought her hundreds of thousands of viewers. But it wasn't without drama. Vanessa was always involved in some sort of high-profile argument.

"I would always cause controversy on YouTube because anything I'd say would be all over Twitter."

But it just so happens that heated feuds can lead to the best drill tracks.

Vanessa's first song, The Situation, was a tongue-in-cheek send released as part of a duo with fellow rapper, Abigail Asante. After she proceeded in her own lane, things started to accelerate.

It's important to Vanessa that her personality shines through in her music.

She says: "I needed people to know I'm the same person (from the YouTube videos)”.

Her single Rumours came out in April. "Everyone was saying to me that song was going to be big, but I didn't believe it," she explains.

The teaser posted online before the song release went viral, but Vanessa was still dubious. She told herself "social media hype isn't real", and that the views on the full song wouldn't match up.

Almost 5 million YouTube views and 4 million Spotify streams later, she realised she could "really do this.

"I thought 'I can't take this as a joke anymore'." Although she kept her raffish charm and outrageous cheek, the song was an effort to shake off the drama that seemed to follow her.

"Even though it might sound hard to believe, I always try to run away from drama," she says. "I decided I'd leave it after Rumours. That's why at the end of it I say 'I said what I said'."

The song addressed rumours people had thrown at her. On it, she raps with a unique flow and clever lyricism - confronting accusations about her personal and sex life head on.

"Boys always get to say how they feel; I want to be the girl to do it as well. If a boy said 'I had sex with four girls' everyone would just be like 'wow, you get girls'.

"If I say it, it's 'oh my God! How could she?'." Vanessa's quick to declare she's a feminist.

"I'm for the females. We're going to be equal by force. I think some men feel intimidated by that."

This headstrong attitude is needed in a genre sparsely populated by women. She's only the second female artist to have appeared on Link Up TV's Daily Duppy freestyle in the past seven years. The video amassed one million views in just one week But Vanessa's used to holding her ground.

"In school, we were always going back and forth rapping with the boys," she says. "I was always the one writing everyone's lyrics for them." She was not only rapping in the playground at school, but an A* English student too.

"I love Shakespeare. I've always loved writing and rhymes."

You can see how she ended up landing a feature on Headie One's chart topping album Edna.

"I was just minding my business and he DMed me and said 'let's do a song'. I couldn't believe it, I've always supported Headie.

"I don't even know if he knows this but I was at his first headline show." She's grateful for the "huge co-sign", being featured among names including Drake and Skepta, on the album, which came out in October.

"I tell him all the time. I think he's a bit annoyed with me always thanking him now, but I don't care." Although Vanessa admits her quick rise to success "doesn't make sense" to her, she has no plans to slow down.

Despite live music being very limited at the moment, she lights up as she speaks about performances being her next focus. She sees it as an opportunity to prove herself, "where people judge if you're an actual artist".

"And that's another thing where girls have to go harder than boys," she says, referring to choreography and stage presence. I see the way female artists perform - they would never just stand there. So I know I need to do that.

"I want to be an international artist."

Award-winning filmmaker Tyler Perry has announced that he will be adding new directors and writers to his team. The announcement comes following his reveal earlier this year that he had no writers' room and that he was the only writer for all of his films and television shows.

While some fans praised Perry for writing many scripts all by himself, a lot of people also expressed criticism towards, with some saying that his characters and storylines have become one-dimensional.

The 51-year old filmmaker initially defended his actions but later decided to take a few steps back and let "fresh, exciting talent" take over the writing and directing reins. Michelle Sneed, President of Production and Development at Tyler Perry Studios, who has worked with Perry since 2009, says that they are looking forward to the change.

Sneed said: "We're super excited about the young, up-and-coming filmmakers and new writers that we're working with.

"Tyler has solidified his place in the industry; his brand is amazing, and we'll continue to grow that. Then, on the other side, we're working on promoting, providing a platform, and advocating for this new talent, both in front of and behind the camera."

Meanwhile, some people on social media already showed their interest in working with Perry as a member of his crew.

Working with The University of Birmingham India Institute, Sampad South Asian Arts & Heritage has created an exclusive digital concert, ‘Spirit Of Diwali’, bringing Diwali celebrations from around the world to audiences, with the message of Diwali: Tamaso ma Jyotirgamayo – lead me to light from darkness.The concert is narrated by Reena Tailor (Bollywood and Kathak dancer and Artistic Director of Bollywood Dreams Dance Academy), Vimal Korpal (stage, television and film actor and radio presenter) and Dharmesh Rajput (Lecturer in Media Production, Birmingham City University and Head of Cinema, Birmingham Indian Film Festival). The programme includes a feast of spectacular dance, music and performances from a host of leading international artists.With work ranging from rock, authentic classical and fusion music, contemporary music director Amit Trivedi shares a joyous welcome song featuring artists from all over the world, choreographed by the renowned Shampa Gopikrishna and Bertwin D’Souza, and celebrating the happiness and prosperity from Lord Ganesha’s blessings. Bringing together the best musicians and dancers across 60 international cities to collaborate on music videos viewed by millions of people globally, IndianRaga present Aadu Pambe – a Bharatanatyam dance about the mystical snake filmed amidst the sands and camels of the Arabian Desert!Internationally renowned for his Kathak dancing, Ludhiana’s Kumar Sharma teams up with this year’s Russia’s Got Talent semi-finalist Svetlana Tulasi and the inimitable Kathak Rockers to bring us their electrifying interpretation of Justin Bieber’s smash-hit song Despacito.

Having won audiences worldwide with their globally popular Balcony Concert series filmed during lockdown, Pune-based sisters Antara and Ankita Nandy share some of their music that has gone viral as the Nandy Sisters, performing songs in Assamese, Malyalam and Rajbongshi.Award-winning sitarist, composer and producer, Jasdeep Singh Degun was awarded a Sky Academy Scholarship to work on his debut album of contemporary and classical music, Anomaly, and has played at prestigious venues around the world. He is set to perform music in his signature versatile style, with a dedication to the classical tradition. Got TalentEspaña semi-finalist Sneha Mistri is a dancer, choreographer and performer from the UK currently based in Madrid. In the Spirit Of Diwali, she brings us a duet with the acclaimed Mumbai choreographer and Bollywood dancer, Devesh Mirchandani.Having founded the first British Gujarati folk dance movement, Raas Rebellion, dancer and performer Parle Patel was awarded the 2015 Asian Media Award for the Best Online Channel for his hugely popular YouTube platform. British born, internationally recognised Gujarati folk singer, Pritee Varsani has released several albums following her debut Om Shiv Omkara and has performed with artists worldwide from Lalita Ghodadra to Imran Khan.

Together Parle and Pritee perform their Gujarati song Ranjaniyu Reloaded, packed with colour, charisma and a whole lot of character. The Ananda Dancers – Amritha, Chiinthu, Sushmitha, Anaya Vasudha and Pranita – perform a special piece illustrating how dance has filed their lives.Winner of the 2011 Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for her contribution towards Creative and Experimental Dance, internationally acclaimed choreographer and dancer Tanusree Shankar presents her choreographed performance We the Living, based on a Sanskrit Hymn which celebrates life in harmony with nature. The concert also includes an invocation to the lord of dance Shiva Shambho, choreographed and performed by Swathi Isha and Sophia, as well as an Indian version of Ed Sheeran’s hit Shape of You, performed by Aditya Rao, Vinod Krishnan and Mahesh Raghavan.In association with Indian Raga London, the concert includes Bharatanatyam, performed by Swathi, Isha and Sophia, as well as an Indian version of Ed Sheeran’s hit Shape of You, performed by Aditya Rao, Vinod Krishnan and Mahesh Raghavan. The Ananda Dancers – Amritha, Chiinthu, Sushmitha, Anaya Vasudha and Pranita – also perform a special piece illustrating how dance has filed their lives.Piali Ray, Sampad Director says: “We are delighted to share the enjoyment and positive energy of this festive season with you all. Let the illumination of the Diwali lights provide true enlightenment for us all to look ahead with happiness, compassion and optimism.”Professor Robin Mason, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (International) and Director of the India Institute commented: “We are living through challenging times and, in the spirit of Diwali, we invite people around the world to join our special online concert celebrating the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance and hope over despair.

“We are a civic university with a global outlook and there is a special bond between Birmingham and India, stretching back to the arrival of our first Indian students in 1909. We’re proud of our research and education partnerships in India which reflect the country’s importance as an emerging global economic powerhouse.”Diwali is a five-day festival celebrated by faiths throughout the Indian community to mark different historical events and stories but with all of them symbolising the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. It is celebrated by lighting lamps and candles in doors and windows of the home, around temples and other buildings, along with fireworks.Dr. Shashank Vikram, Consul General India, commented: “On this auspicious occasion, I would like to convey a very happy and prosperous Diwali to the Chancellor Lord Bilimoria, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Robin Mason and everyone at the University of Birmingham and beyond. ‘Diwali’ is about building bonds, sharing joy, happiness and celebrating ‘unity in diversity’. “I would like to extend best wishes to the University of Birmingham for their endeavour in keeping the spirit of Diwali high even in this testing time. Cultural festivals are the powerhouse of our society. They strengthen sentiments of community, they re-connect us to our heritage, foster a deeper understanding of our modern cultural plurality and at times of crisis, provides a lifeline to the isolated and the vulnerable. “The celebrations of Diwali have its roots in the triumph of light over darkness. This year that message has a particular relevance as we have seen the world change significantly over the last 12 months, and we have all faced challenges that we could never have expected. But Diwali’s message is a timely reminder of the light at the end of the tunnel and the collective strength of unity.”Spirit Of Diwali will be streamed on Sampad’s YouTube channel from Wednesday 11 November and The University of Birmingham’s YouTube channel from 7pm on Saturday, 14 November.

Nigerian Afro-fusion pioneer, Burna Boy has announced that he will perform an immersive livestreamed show, available exclusively on MelodyVR.
 
This special virtual event, ‘Live from London’, is billed to take place on Wednesday, November 18, 2020 at 8pm GMT live from O2 Academy Brixton, one of London’s most iconic venues. It will boast jaw-dropping production and visuals, and a setlist filled with the African giant's hits like ‘Wonderful’ and ‘Real Life’, and newer tracks from his huge summer album Twice as Tall.
 
The BRITs-nominated, Grammy-nominated, EMA and two-time BET Best African Act has given fans a wave of new material to look forward to. Just last month, he reinvented his musical style with his critically acclaimed 'Real Life' video, featuring international rapper, Stormzy; and has recently released a powerful new song ‘20:10:20’.
 
For Burna Boy's ‘Live from London’ performance, a global at-home audience will be able to experience the show virtually on smartphones and VR headsets via the MelodyVR app - choosing from multiple camera angles to get up close to the action as it happens - or on a browser via the MelodyVR web player.
 
Fusing dancehall, reggae, Afrobeat and pop, Burna Boy emerged in 2010 as one of Nigeria's fastest-rising stars. He has since solidified his place in Nigeria and the world with his globally accepted Afrofusion sound, achieving phenomenal international success with hits such as ‘Ye’, 'Gbona', 'Monsters You Made' featuring Coldplay's Chris Martin, ‘20 10 20’ and ‘Own It’ (with Stormzy and Ed Sheeran), to mention a few.
 
Having released formidable widely-acclaimed albums, Burna Boy says: “I can’t wait to come at you, live from London with MelodyVR. This virtual show will be from the heart to my friends around the world. It’ll be twice as close, twice as realistic and twice as tall.”
 

Comedian Al Murray and Historian James Holland issue plea to battle Covid mental health crisis with launch of Walking Home For Christmas

Comedian Al Murray and WW2 Historian James Holland have challenged the UK public to supply their best military jokes and banter to help support Walking With The Wounded’s ‘Walking Home For Christmas’ campaign – to support ex-military facing mental health battles.

The major fundraising drive is the Charity’s only event this year. It challenges the general public to step out of their comfort zone and to walk somewhere important to them in support of Britain’s ex-military. Taking place from Thursday 10th to Sunday 20th December, the challenge is the perfect way to beat lockdown blues while obeying local Covid-19 restrictions.

The pair who run the We Have Ways of Making You Talk podcast (which discusses all things Second World War), have both come on-board this year to support those who served and to lend a hand in overcoming the new Covid-19 battlefield that is adding extra pressure mentally and physically throughout the UK.   

They will be taking on their own epic walk in December that will involve one of the most therapeutic remedies for mental health - banter! Walking and talking is good for the soul, but add a bit of military banter into the mix and you are laughing!

Over the past six years, thousands of people have done their own memorable, solo and team walks - to raise vital funds for those who have served. They have walked home, to a war memorial, to their old barracks and even carried a Christmas tree to a friend. The charity’s Grenadier Walk of Oman expedition team, comprised of 5 ex-military and one currently serving, will also be walking in December in their own locations (after the expedition was postponed until early 2021), to bring attention to the struggles that military veterans face in their day-to-day lives, and how a simple laugh and a joke can brighten the spirits of those who need it most.

This year, we've been locked down, but we can get up again. Walking Home For Christmas encourages us all to get out, embrace the spirit of Christmas and serve those who served us.

In light of the dark Covid-19 environment, this year’s campaign theme has been given a comedy twist and Al and James are calling out to the public for the best banter the military and ex-military have to offer to keep them entertained on their walk. They would love you to get involved and share any jokes that will help the mental toils of 2020. You can share your jokes in the comment section of the video below.

They have called on Brits across the country to put their best foot forward to raise much-needed cash to help veterans and their families – simply by going for a walk.

Al Murray said “I would love for the British public to join me and walk. Yes, walk, it’s as simple as that. Joining Walking Home for Christmas and doing a sponsored walk will help in raising money for ex-military and their families dealing with mental health issues that have been even more challenging, with the strange Covid-19 times we find ourselves in. Myself and WW2 historian James Holland would love to hear your military jokes, stories and banter that we can read out on our walk together on our We Have Ways of Making You Talk podcast. The challenge is yours, between Thurs 10 and Sun 20 Dec for Walking With The Wounded. Sign up below. Good luck and get walking.”

James Holland added, “It’s an honour to be involved with Walking Home For Christmas this year and it’s extremely important to shine a spotlight on the importance of our mental health as well as our military veterans. I’m a big fan of walking the ground and I’m hoping that the military jokes and banter you provide will put a smile on my face, as well as Al’s! With another lockdown being implemented, getting out and walking is a great way to unwind and clear your head. So, do it for a good cause and support Walking Home For Christmas.”

The campaign invites anyone to register for free, receive a branded Santa hat and facemask and do a sponsored walk home, somewhere important to them anytime between 10th -20th December.

The event is aiming to support 200 ex-servicemen and women who are socially isolated, struggling with their mental health, homeless or caught in police custody as a result of poor mental health – and get them back into employment and independence.

Carolyn, WWTW’s Clinical Lead says “There has been lots of research that backs up the message that exercise is good for us and studies have shown that exercise and physical activity can in fact treat mild to moderate depression as effectively as antidepressant medication – it’s good for our mental health and wellbeing! 

“Exercise improves mental health by reducing anxiety, depression, and negative mood as well as improving self-esteem. Taking part in group activities can improve this even further bringing individuals together to achieve a common goal.  Being part a group of your peers can instill a sense of comradery which many ex-servicemen and women miss and will attest to the fact that the associated banter can give a little respite from the day to day difficulties that can be experienced by many.  Having a laugh, socializing with others and taking part in some physical activity is a recipe for improving our wellbeing and rebalances the nervous system – allowing us to put the brakes on any stressful situations we may be going through,”

Signing up for Walking Home For Christmas is easy and free

Following the release of their eighth studio album Encore, last year to critical acclaim, the band comprising Terry Hall, Lynval Golding and Horace Panter, hit the road again.The genius of the Specials is that they are observers, not commentators and they know that pop music is influential, important and exhilarating. They are a band embedded in this country's DNA, and especially in the DNA of Coventry, City of Culture 2021.

It is impossible to envisage the musical landscape without them, from the startling, angular Gangsters in 1979, to their swan song, the epoch-making Ghost Town in 1981. They infuse ska with punk and homegrown political anxiety with wider issues.

The skill of re-contextualising what has gone before and writing new songs that fuse this heritage with all that is current. Throughout the decades the Special's influence has never gone away. And we need it."I'm aware our work has been out there for forty years and I'm so grateful for what we've done, I pinch myself sometimes," says Lynval.

"I can pat myself on the back now, and say 'Well done,' because that what my father says to me. As a band, making this record, it was the closest we'd ever been.""That's the thing with the Specials," says Horace.

"We are three very different people, but you put us together and we become the greatest rock 'n' roll band in the world, as far as I'm concerned. Something remarkable happens."

Something remarkable will happen at the Ricoh Arena in 2021, when The Specials walk out onto the stage at the Ricoh Indoor Arena, Coventry on September 11th.

Comedian and actor John Sessions has died.

Best known as a panellist on 1980s and 90s improvisation TV show Whose Line Is It Anyway?, and for Stella Street, Spitting Image and QI, with acting credits included TV dramas Porterhouse Blue and Victoria, and Kenneth Branagh's 1989 film of Henry V, comedian Ronni Ancona described him as "a genius", while Helen Lederer remembered him as "such an original force of clever wit and talent". Rory Bremner said Sessions was "just the best, he'd blow everyone away on Whose Line with his speed of thought & breadth of reference". He added: "A flash of brilliance just went out."

During his career, he provided voices on Spitting Image in the 1980s - the only person to both provide impressions and be featured as a puppet on the satirical show.

The programme was among the trailblazers of alternative comedy, he told BBC Radio Scotland in September. "You really felt you were at the cutting edge of comedy," he said.

His impressions were also at the heart of Stella Street, a spoof soap opera about megastars like Keith Richards, Joe Pesci and Roger Moore who lived on the same suburban road, which launched in 1997.

Sessions recalled meeting Richards and the other members of the Rolling Stones. "They watched the show," he told Radio Scotland. "Keith said he really enjoys it and he's thinking of getting a little corner shop."

Paying tribute, comedian Sanjeev Bhaskar said Sessions was "always warm and fun company and amazing improv ability". Meera Syal remembered himbeing "always the funniest and kindest man in the room", while Jack Dee described him as "a delightful, funny, generous and hugely gifted man" and Sally Phillips said he was "unpredictable, dangerous, adorable".

Sessions appeared on the first ever episode of QI, and the team behind the panel show said: "His incredible wit and encyclopaedic knowledge played a huge part in the show's history and everyone at QI is deeply saddened to learn of his passing."

Broadcaster Danny Baker remembered him as "terrific company always and a true talent", and Michael Spicer described him as "a character actor with such extraordinary range and so very, very funny".

Sessions was born John Marshall in Largs, Scotland, in 1953, and moved to Bedfordshire with his family when he was three. He was accepted by Rada at the age of 26 in 1979. Eight years later, his one-man theatre show The Life of Napoleon transferred to the West End. "He is like nobody else," The Times' critic wrote. "He uses language like a poet; he can jump from the raft at Tilsit to Huck Finn on the Mississippi and make the metaphor work."

Soon after, he made his acting breakthrough on screen in Channel 4's Porterhouse Blue, before showing his surreal and cerebral comic energy on Whose Line Is It Anyway?

"When I left Rada, my plan was to try and do two careers at once - to be a comedian and an actor," he told The Guardian in 2014. "For some years, I managed to juggle the two, but I never felt I joined either club." He went on to star in a string of his own BBC TV shows, such as a self-titled solo improvisation series in the late 1980s, followed by John Sessions's Tall Tales and John Sessions's Likely Stories. But he never quite achieved the stardom of his friends Branagh and Stephen Fry. He said he "ran out of steam" when he turned 40. "As I was getting older, I wasn't getting more confident, I was getting less confident," he told The Guardian. "I lost my way."

His other TV credits included Victoria, The Loch, Just William, Tom Jones, and Gormenghast; and he had film roles in The Good Shepherd, The Merchant of Venice and The Bounty.

His knack for impersonating politicians was put to use in dramas too - playing former prime minister Edward Heath in the 2011 film The Iron Lady; another ex-premier, Harold Wilson, in 2010's Made in Dagenham; and former chancellor Geoffrey Howe in the 2009 Thatcher biopic Margaret. But he told The Telegraph in 2013: "I don't think I was very good at managing my career. You need to carve your own path and not just bob along."

Recently, he had narrated a 10-part radio adaptation of children's book series The Adventures of Captain Bobo.

In a statement, his agent Alex Irwin said: "It is with great sadness we can confirm that on Monday 2nd November, the actor John Sessions died at his home in South London. He will be hugely missed."

The Ayrshire-born star died from a heart condition, his agent said.

He was 67.

Over $110,000 (£85,000) was raised in support of an unwitting star of Sacha Baron Cohen's new mockumentary, Borat Subsequent Moviefilm.

Jeanise Jones, 62, was recruited for the film that sees Kazakh journalist Borat playing pranks on US citizens. She features in several scenes after being asked to babysit the fictional daughter of Cohen's infamous character. Following the film's release last week, her church pastor set up a crowdfunding page for fans "to say thank you".

Pastor Derrick Scobey said Ms Jones, who was hired from the congregation of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Oklahoma City, had recently lost her job of 32 years due to the coronavirus pandemic.

On the crowdfunding page, Mr Scobey said the movie's producers had asked for a "black grandmother for a small role in a documentary". During filming, Ms Jones was tasked with looking after Borat's daughter, Tutar, who was played by actress Maria Bakalova.

In a number of scenes, Ms Jones deflects misogynistic comments made by Mr Cohen's character, encourages Tutar to "be happy" and tells her to "use your brain, because your daddy is a liar".

"This was not scripted for Jeanise. It all came from the heart," said Mr Scobey. "She is one of the most authentic people I've ever met."

In an interview with the New York Post, Ms Jones said of her appearance in the film that she was "trying to give the best advice I know".

"In that kind of situation, you can't help but have patience because you're trying to help somebody - at least, that's what I thought," she said. She further that said she was yet to watch the film. She was paid $3,600 for her role in the movie, which drew millions of viewers during its opening weekend on Amazon Prime.

Ms Jones said that, since filming, she had been concerned about Tutar's welfare. But after a friend showed her a trailer for the movie earlier this month, she has looked back on the experience with good humour.

"I'm glad to know that Ms Bakalova's not really in that situation," she said. "Mr Cohen, I don't know.

“It wasn't real, so I would shake his hand and say, 'You got me.'"