Entertainment News

CBBC star Archie Lyndhurst has died at the age of 19 after a short illness.

He was best known for playing Ollie Coulton in the comedy show So Awkward.

In a statement, his father, Only Fools and Horses actor Nicholas Lyndhurst, said he and wife Lucy were "utterly grief stricken and respectfully request privacy".

CBBC head of content Cheryl Taylor said he was "such a talented young actor", adding: "All of us at BBC Children's are devastated." She added: "He will be greatly missed by us all and our deepest condolences go out to his family and friends at this time."

Archie began his acting career at the Sylvia Young Theatre School at the age of 10. In 2013, his father Nicholas told the BBC that his son had inherited the "acting gene". He appeared in So Awkward, a sitcom following the lives of a group of friends in secondary school, from its first series in 2015.

Nicholas appeared alongside his son in a 2019 episode of the programme.

Channel X North, the independent production company that makes So Awkward, said it was "deeply shocked and saddened" by the news.

"He was an incredibly talented performer and his contribution to So Awkward, on and off screen, will not be forgotten," it said in a statement. "As well as hilarious, he was a generous, kind-hearted young man who we had the honour to work with on the show for seven years.

"Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time."

John Challis, who played Aubrey "Boycie" Boyce in Only Fools, said Archie's death was "the saddest news of all". He said Archie was "just starting out on his chosen career in acting" and that his "heart aches for Nick and Lucy".

Actress Sue Holderness, who played Boycie's wife Marlene in the show, said the news was "too sad", adding: "My heart goes out to his Mum and Dad and to all who knew him."

Samuel Small, who appeared with Archie in So Awkward and also in a 2014 episode of Game of Thrones, posted a lengthy tribute on Instagram to his "brother" and "best friend".

"I still can't quite comprehend that you have passed," he wrote. "You still had so much life to live and I'd give anything for you to keep on living it.

"I wish you could've all known Archie how we knew him," he continued. "I've never met someone so full of life [who] touched so many people’s hearts.

"I still can't find the words that do him justice and show how much of a beautiful soul he was."

Archie's other roles included recurring appearances as a younger incarnation of comedian Jack Whitehall in various TV programmes.

These included BBC Three sitcom Bad Education, in which he was seen as a younger version of Whitehall's Alfie Wickers character.

Two of the United Kingdom’s most respected steel orchestras have been written into history by their participation in the first ever global flag raising ceremony to commemorate steelband month in Trinidad and Tobago titled Flying High.

London’s reigning Panorama champion 2019 Mangrove Steelband and the respected Phase One Steel Orchestra have signed their brands to the innovative project.

Conceptualised by the Steelpan Authority, Flying High is an exhibition of artwork (logos) of steelbands, emblazoned on flags. These banners danced in the wind above the city of Port-of-Spain, on the Brian Lara Promenade between St Vincent and Edward Streets, between August 17 and September 24.

Other participating global steel orchestras were:

USA: Casym Steel Orchestra

Japan: Sonics Tokyo Steel Orchestra

Canada: Afro Pan Steel Orchestra

Trinidad and Tobago: Golden Hands, Royal Pan Illusion; Scrunters Pan Groove; Hill Toppers Steelpan Academy; T&T Defence Force; Courts Sound Specialists of Laventille; Uni Stars Steel Orchestra; and Southern Marines Steelband Foundation.

“Flying High is an illustration of true cultural pride,” says Sean Nero, CEO at Steelpan Authority. “Traditionally, steelband flags go into storage on Ash Wednesday in Trinidad and Tobago. Naturally, this will occur at a different timeline based on the orchestras geographical location, of course.”

He continued, “Here comes the Steelpan Authority with an original concept to illustrate how beautiful pieces of artwork, do not need to stay locked in storage. Originally, this project commemorates observances from Emancipation (the call of our ancestors) - to Independence (the story of self-governance). It is instructive to note that couched in between those two dates is Steelpan Month. But team Steelpan Authority applied for and successfully obtained a 24-day extension. Flying High will run until Republic Day (September 24) a national holiday in Trinidad and Tobago.”

August 2020 marked the 28^th anniversary since the steelpan was declared the National Musical Instrument of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

The decision to heighten the profile of the musical instrument was made by the government of the late Patrick Manning on August 30, 1992. In his Independence Day message, the late Prime Minister declared the steelpan would become the national musical instrument of the twin island Republic. To mark the occasion, Chaconia Medals (Gold) were bestowed onto Renegades and Desperadoes Steel Orchestras for excellence in culture.

Owen Serrette, manager of four-time National Panorama champion Harmonites Steel Orchestra – a senior officer in the public service back then–was at the helm of Pan Trinbago.

Out of the new respect bestowed onto the steelpan community, Serrette and his executive conceptualised an observance to be known as Steelpan (Steelband) Week, which morphed into Steelpan (Steelband) Month.

Nero said, “It seems fated, that more than two-and-a-half decades later, steelbands have set a new course, utilising the Flying High platform, where the steelband world comes together without striking a musical note.”

For the team at Steelpan Authority hoisting of these flags to coincide with Steelpan Month represents three pillars:

• Salute the legends who paved the way (too many of them unsung heroes);
• Recognises the tremendous work being done by those in the present space and thirdly;
• Symbolise as a source of strength should those in the future be in need of such, in addition to it being a guiding light in the event any of them lose their way

Focus on Education: Team Steelpanauthority started 2020 with Champions of The Steelpan, a radio education series scheduled for 52 weeks. It is aired during The Morning Show on radio i95.5FM hosted by Tony Lee and Dale Enoch. Mention of this project is made to illustrate that efforts by the Steelpan Authourity should not be considered as a knee jerk reaction to the heritage of Trinidad and Tobago, but rather a true enabler of a wider conversation on and about the steelpan through education.

Honouree: Across the world, there exist royalty. There are dynasties. It should, therefore, come as no surprise that the steelpan community has its own. One such house of royalty is the Mannette dynasty.

The Mannette name in the sphere of culture, creativity and innovation has never been in question. You must have heard the name Vernon “Birdie” Mannette of Invaders fames and of course his brother Elliot “Ellie” Mannette.

In recognising the family’s storied legacy, the Steelpan Authority proudly present the heir of the Mannette throne: Mr. Barry Mannette.

Very much like his father Vernon and uncle “Ellie” Barry is a nurturer. Although, he did not formalise a career along the line of steelpan manufacturing, as those who went before, the younger Mannette has firmly ingratiated himself into steelband culture as an educator, earning respect and winning hearts wherever he goes.

So, it is with enormous pride that team Steelpan Authority introduces Mr. Barry Mannette as the inaugural honouree of the Flying High project.

Little Mix have announced two concerts at Birmingham Resorts World Arena on their Confetti UK and Ireland Arena Tour in May 2021.

The shows will see Little Mix perform songs from their new album ‘Confetti’, due for release on November 6, 2020 hits ‘Holiday’ and ‘Break Up Song’, as well as ‘Touch’, ‘ Woman Like Me’, ‘Black Magic’ and ‘Shout Out To My Ex’.

The dates confirmed are Thursday May 20 and Friday May 21.

On Saturday September 26, the four-piece girl band launched a new TV series for BBC One, Little Mix The Search.

The series, will see the band creating bands and becoming mentors to a new wave of talent. The singers who make it into new bands will live together and gain access to Little Mix’s inner circle, including creative directors, choreographers and vocal coaches.

The prize for the winning band will see them support Little Mix on The Confetti Tour 2021.

Perrie Edwards, Jesy Nelson, Leigh-Anne Pinnock and Jade Thirlwall have established themselves as one of the biggest girl band – selling more than 50 million records globally with more over 17 million Spotify listeners, 3 billion YouTube views, and 12 billion streams.

Last year the girls won their second Brit Award – for Best British Video for ‘Woman Like Me’. 

Vamos Theatre, the UK’s leading full mask theatre company, is launching The Wednesday Wave, a national and international campaign to combat loneliness amongst care home residents and those who feel isolated during the current pandemic and beyond.

More than half a million vulnerable people are still unable to leave their homes due to coronavirus. It’s having a huge impact on mental and physical health and those still isolating must not be forgotten.

For ten weeks, from 14th October until 16^th December 2020, the Arts Council England-funded theatre company is encouraging the public to connect with residents in local care homes or isolated neighbours, by waving to them through windows from 3pm on Wednesdays. The company are also connecting primary schools with local care homes.

How does it work?

• If you are a Care Home resident or live alone and feel isolated, or in need of contact, put The Wednesday Wave poster in your window, letting your community know that you’re inviting a wave. You can download a poster to print at www.vamostheatre.co.uk/TWWposter
• If you’d like to wave, whether on your way home from school, on a break from work or on a daily walk, identify somewhere with a poster displayed.
• From 3pm on Wednesdays, let the waving begin!

The idea for The Wednesday Wave was born out of How Hard is Waving? Vamos Theatre’s successful Culture in Quarantine commission for the BBC, a series of short films made in isolation during lockdown. How Hard is Waving? tells the story of a family trying to keep connected in lockdown and was itself inspired by the true story of Artistic Director Rachael Savage’s personal ‘wave’ with a local care home resident.

Rachael comments, “The impact that a friendly wave can have on loneliness is huge. We want this campaign to be felt nationally and internationally, and for communities of all backgrounds to take part, helping to make sure that those who are most at risk are not forgotten. Everyone can make a difference with the simple act of waving.”

Over 80 Care Homes with over 2,400 residents across the UK have already signed up to take part in The Wednesday Wave. Belfast, Nottingham, Warwickshire, Worcestershire, Essex, Birmingham, Solihull, Somerset and Hertfordshire are just some of the locations. These include: Runwood Care Homes UK; Eastern County Care;  Royal British Legion; Mowbray Nursing Home, Malvern; Arden House, Kidderminster and Stanfield Nursing Homes, Rushwick with more expected to join over the coming months.

Mark Topps, Registered Home Manager, Eastern County Care in Essex added: “We go out and walk everyday around our village, it's been hard for everyone in lockdown but the elderly villagers have really appreciated talking with us from a safe distance on our daily walks and some really look forward to us passing by and wait for us by their windows.  So, The Wednesday Wave is really worth while; it would make such a difference in people's day, improving their well-being and self-worth."

Vamos Theatre, funded by Arts Council England, was awarded one of the BBC’s Culture in Quarantine commission, celebrating the making of artistic work during lockdown.

The Wednesday Wave is being run in compliance with Government guidelines on COVID-19.

Britain’s award-winning rapper Lady Leshurr has been confirmed as the tenth celebrity skater to take part in ITV's Dancing on Ice 2021.

The Birmingham musician, who rose to fame with the help of YouTube, released her third EP, Quaranqueen, in June.

He said: "I don't what I've got myself in for, but everyone knows me to be someone who just throws themself in at the deep end. I just wing it a lot of the time."

"I'm petrified, but I've always wanted to ice skate so what's better than doing it in front of millions of people.

"I'm looking forward to having a new skill and just showing off in front of my friends."

The show, which starts filming in January, will see 12 celebrities skate live with their professional partners as they try to impress the judges - Torvill and Dean, John Barrowman and Ashley Banjo - and the voting viewers at home.

The rest of the line-up to date is: British Olympics sprinter Colin Jackson who won two 110m hurdles gold medals at the World Athletics Championships, as well as silver at the Seoul Olympics in 1988, England striker Jamee Vardy’s wife, Rebekah, who appeared on I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! in 2017, former Olympics skier and broadcaster Graham Bell, Capital Radio DJ Sonny Jay, actor and singer Jason Donovan, who rose to fame in the 1980s on the Australian soap Neighbours, Faye Brookes who is best known for playing Kate Connor in Coronation Street, actress, singer and presenter Denise Van Outen, Emmerdale star Joe-Warren Plant and musician and presenter Myleene Klass.

Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby will return to host the programme.

Dozens of pantomime dames have marched on Westminster, as part of a day of action highlighting the plight of the live events industry.

The parade was organised after the rise in coronavirus cases prompted the cancellation of the 2020 panto season.

Actor Gary Bridgens, who normally performs in pantomime, under the stage name Gacko, every year, said: “The impact will ripple through the entire theatre industry for a generation.”

Organisers are calling for an extension to the government's furlough scheme for theatre workers.

"If the government don't support theatre in its hour of need, there won't be any - or worse, it will all need rebuilding after this disaster,” he said.

The protest in London coincided with a day of global events reflecting the issues facing the live event industry.

Under the slogan "red alert", the #WeMakeEvents campaign will see venues in 25 countries bathed in red light, to draw attention to the continued uncertainty over when concerts and shows can resume; and the precarious position actors, musicians and crew find themselves in.

Pre-empting the day of action, hundreds of people who normally work at concerts, festivals and theatres gathered in Parliament Square to hold a 30 minute silent protest at the government's handling of the situation.

The Bafta Film Awards will have more nominees next year in an attempt to increase the diversity of the stars and film-makers who are up for honours. All four acting categories as well as the best director award will have six nominees, instead of the usual five. Ten titles will be in contention for the outstanding British film award - four more than the customary six.

Earlier this year, Bafta (the British Academy of Film and Television Arts) was heavily criticised after picking an all-white line-up of acting nominees. Meanwhile, no female film-makers were nominated for the best director prize for the seventh year running.

Organisers carried out a "detailed review" as a result, and said they would now also seek to "meaningfully target" 1,000 new voting members from under-represented groups. The move, they said, was one in a series of steps "to ensure a more representative and inclusive membership that reflects today's British society".

In January, Blue Story director Rapman was among Bafta's many critics, saying it had done his gritty urban drama "dirty" by not shortlisting it for any awards. Bafta said the review had begun as "a direct response" to the lack of diversity in its 2020 nominations, but had "soon expanded to encompass all aspects" of the organisation.

Bafta said the expansion of its outstanding British film award would enable it to "do more to champion the vast pool of multicultural British talent".

"One of the key issues raised time and time again... was that too much deserving work was not being seen," said film committee chair Marc Samuelson. "The changes we are implementing are designed to ensure these films are seen and judged on merit alone."

Changes to campaigning rules will seek to ensure "a fairer consideration of all films regardless of marketing budget".

Bafta said this would ensure "smaller" films were not "left out of the conversation" and would have as much "visibility" as titles backed by major studios. Changes to Bafta's voting practices will ensure the best director jury will have a guaranteed number of female film-makers to choose from.

The final six nominees will be drawn from an expanded long list of 20 names, half of which will be female. Bafta said this would help to address "a historic lack of female representation in the directing category". Only five women have ever made the shortlist for the best director award, which Bafta first presented in 1969.

Kathryn Bigelow, the only woman to win, for The Hurt Locker in 2010, was also the last woman to be shortlisted when she was nominated in 2013 for Zero Dark Thirty. All voting members will also now be required to take a "specially designed bespoke" course in "conscious voter training".

Bafta said that would help its members "navigate and recognise the wider societal influences that can impact the voting process".

In the case of the overall best film award, all voters will be required to watch all 15 movies on the longlist. The shortlist will continue to consist of five films. Bafta's review was led by its chair Krishnendu Majumdar, Samuelson and a steering group that included former Doctor Who actor Noel Clarke, academic Sadia Habib and ITV's head of diversity Ade Rawcliffe.

Mr Majumdar praised them for "bravely sharing their experiences of racism and discrimination" during "tough, chastening (and) captivating" sessions.

"This is a watershed moment for Bafta," the TV producer said in a statement. "The Academy has never opened itself up like this before."

Bafta's chief executive Amanda Berry concurred, saying the review was "a fantastic opportunity... to make substantial cultural and organisational change". Bafta said "significant changes" to its Television Awards would be announced in October and that its Games and Children's Awards would also be reviewed.

The 2021 Bafta Film Awards are scheduled to take place on 11 April, two months later than usual due to the coronavirus pandemic.

People all over the world are falling under the spell of Master KG’s infectious breakthrough single ‘Jerusalema’. Originally released in his home country of South Africa, ‘Jerusalema’ has taken on a life of its own, its irresistible feelgood vibe being discovered the world over. The song’s international discovery has been powered by the #JerusalemaDanceChallenge, which has seen over 6 million videos uploaded to TikTok and Instagram featuring people sharing their take on the song’s joyous dance. Cristiano Ronaldo’s video has now accumulated over 20 million views. 
 
While ‘Jerusalema’ is long established as a viral sensation (180 million views at TikTok plus 150 million at YouTube), the track has only recently been added to streaming services. And it’s already flying, hitting #1 on the Global Shazam Chart, #16 on Spotify’s Global Viral chart and rapidly climbing airplay charts everywhere. That organic growth has been boosted by a remix which features the Grammy-nominated Afro-fusion star Burna Boy and has been added to Kiss FM, Capital Xtra, 1Xtra and Kiss FRESH. 
 
It only takes one listen to discover why ‘Jerusalama’ is making such a big impact. From its sun-kissed beat to the sweet vocals from featured artist Nomcebo, it’s an immediately uplifting antidote to the challenging times we’re experiencing. That atmosphere resonates in the official video too, with Master KG and Nomcebo’s performance inspiring carefree dance moves from the community around them. Recorded in the Zulu language, it translates as a gospel-style message: “Jerusalema is my home / Guard me, walk with me / Don’t leave me here.”
 
“It is so wonderful to see the love from all over the world,” said Master KG. “I used to dream of such moments when I was still underground and starting to make music.”
 
Raised in Calais in the northern South African province of Limpopo, Master KG first came to attention with his 2018 track ‘Skeleton Move’. It set him on course to win Best Artiste, Duo or Group In African Electro at the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA); the SABC Summer Song; Best Dance Song at the Limpopo Music Awards; and Best Male Artist South African at the African Muzik Magazine Awards 2019.

Jo Malone has criticised the perfume brand bearing her name for their treatment of the actor John Boyega. Malone is no longer personally associated with the company, having sold it to Estee Lauder in 1999.

The company, Jo Malone London, apologised after replacing the Star Wars actor in an aftershave advert for the Chinese market.

"I am so horrified and disgusted about what has been done to John," Malone said. "How dare somebody treat him like that and he finds out he is replaced on social media?

"They never spoke to him. That for me is utterly despicable and is disgusting."

Jo Malone London re-shot the advert the Star Wars actor made, in his home town of London, for broadcast in China.

While the script for the aftershave commercial - which was originally conceived and directed by the British star - remained largely the same, it saw him replaced by another actor, Liu Haoran.

The original version, entitled London Gent, showed Boyega hanging out with friends and family in Peckham, where he grew up, but they were also removed for Chinese audiences.

Boyega stepped down as an ambassador for the company in protest over their decision.

The firm issued an apology to Boyega on Monday, saying: "We deeply apologise for what, on our end, was a mistake in the local execution of the John Boyega campaign."

Jo Malone London reiterated their apology on Thursday, clarifying that the founder has not been involved with her former company since 2006.

Former owner Malone expressed her dismay at being dragged into the situation on social media earlier this week.

Speaking to Lorraine on ITV, she added: "From a personal level, I feel heartbroken by this and I don't know where to turn."

"This has gone global and my name has been associated," she went on. "It's been done in my name but also people think it's me."

"If I'd have been standing in those shoes I promise you John this wouldn't have happened.

Malone added: "This man wasn't using his image to just promote something - he brought his creativity to the advert."

She said Boyega "brought his life story to people and to that brand and how dare somebody treat him like that and he finds out he's been replaced on social media.

“That's the bit that really gets to me."

Pop legend Madonna has announced she will direct a film about her own life and career. The star is also co-writing the movie with Diablo Cody, the Oscar-winning screenwriter of Juno and Young Adult. The script is expected to chart her rise from the slums of New York to global superstardom, via songs such as Like A Virgin and Vogue.

She said the film would focus on music, adding: "Music has kept me going and art has kept me alive." The as-yet-untitled project will be Madonna's third as director after 2008's Filth and Wisdom and 2011's WE, which was based around King Edward VIII's affair with Wallis Simpson. The latter film was panned by critics, and bombed at the box office, making just $2m (£1.5m) against a budget of $11m (£8.5m).

However, with huge successes for Elton John's Rocketman and the Freddie Mercury film Bohemian Rhapsody - for which Rami Malek earned an Oscar - rock and pop biopics are in the middle of a purple patch. Madonna's entry to the genre will be made by Universal Pictures - which previously attracted the artist's anger by snapping up an unofficial script based on her life. No casting or production timeline for the film has been announced, but the megastar has charted the early stages of scripting on her Instagram account.

In a Q&A with fans, she said the biopic would be about her "struggle as an artist trying to survive in a man's world," adding that the journey covers a range of emotions: "happy, sad, mad, crazy, good, bad and ugly". She added that the plot would address her relationship with artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, the fallout from her controversial Like A Prayer video and her experience filming Evita.

In a statement confirming her directorial role Madonna said: "I want to convey the incredible journey that life has taken me on as an artist, a musician, a dancer - a human being, trying to make her way in this world.

"It's essential to share the roller coaster ride of my life with my voice and vision."

The annual Strictly Come Dancing special in Blackpool will not take place this year, the BBC has confirmed.

A BBC spokesman said while contestants would not physically go to Blackpool's Tower Ballroom in 2020, they would still be "celebrating the iconic venue" from Elstree studio.

It follows changes made to the show due to coronavirus restrictions.

Beginning in October, the forthcoming series will be shorter than usual.

Contestants will be staying in a hotel for two weeks ahead of pre-recording all the group dances.

Strictly's annual special at Blackpool, filmed in one of the country's most historic ballrooms, is seen by contestants and the professional dancers alike as one of the highlights of the series. The show has filmed at the venue since 2004, taking regular breaks. However, since 2013 there has been a Blackpool special annually.

Blackpool is renowned for being a home for ballroom dancing, having hosted the Blackpool Dance Festival since 1920. That event is taking place online this year as a result of coronavirus.

A BBC spokesman said: "Blackpool is a milestone moment in every series of Strictly that our audience, our celebs and professional dancers look forward to.

"Whilst we'll be unable to physically go to Blackpool this series, we'll still be celebrating this iconic venue and bringing it to life from our studio in Elstree." It comes after former home secretary Jacqui Smith was confirmed as the 12th and final celebrity contestant for 2020.

Smith will join with stars including Bill Bailey, Clara Amfo, and HRVY.

Birmingham Hippodrome is set to host the UK premiere of Van Gogh Alive, a multi-sensory arts and entertainment experience for the whole family to enjoy.

Opening 8 Oct 2020, Van Gogh Alive, produced by Grande Exhibitions, has inspired over 6 million people across 50 cities around the world and is now set to transform Birmingham Hippodrome’s auditorium to display Van Gogh’s work in a spectacular immersive experience.

Van Gogh’s works have been exhibited and admired for over a century – but never like this. The multi-sensory experience provides visitors with the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Van Gogh’s artistry and truly venture into his world through beautifully curated projections accompanied by a stunning classical soundscape.

Fiona Allan, Artistic Director and Chief Executive Officer, Birmingham Hippodrome said: “Having been closed to the public since March, and it being financially unviable for Birmingham Hippodrome to reopen for live performance until social distancing guidance is relaxed, we have had to completely rethink how to use the building and how to serve our public. The opportunity to do something completely different with our spaces, and still provide a high quality and compelling cultural experience, came at exactly the right moment. 

"I’m proud we are partnering with Grande Exhibitions to host the UK premiere of Van Gogh Alive. Make no mistake, this is no ordinary art exhibition it is a ground-breaking and breathtaking multi-sensory experience, unlike anything seen before in the region. It gives us the reason we needed to reopen the Hippodrome to the public. Best still, we can operate it safely under social distancing guidelines, and I just know our visitors are going to be absolutely blown away.”

This will be the first time Birmingham Hippodrome has invited the public back into the building after being forced to close in March due to the global pandemic of COVID-19. This large-scale art event provides a COVID safe environment that exceeds government public health guidelines. Controlled visitor capacities and managed visitor flow mean visitors can easily respect government social-distancing guidelines.

Grande Exhibitions, the creator and producer of Van Gogh Alive, use state-of-the-art SENSORY4 immersive gallery technology, combined with a tailored exhibition space to allow crystal-clear projection of over 3000 inspirational images. Set to an evocative classical score, visitors are surrounded by a vibrant symphony of light, colour, sound and fragrance that has been called an ‘unforgettable’ multi-sensory experience. The technology brings Van Gogh's masterpieces to life and gives visitors the sensation of walking right into his paintings, a feeling that is simultaneously enchanting, entertaining and educational.

In addition to the main exhibition and gift shop, Van Gogh Alive will also feature interactive art stations, interpretative areas, a re-creation of Van Gogh’s ‘Bedroom in Arles’ and the hugely popular ‘Sunflower selfie room’.

Bruce Peterson, Owner of Grande Exhibitions, said: “We are incredibly excited that Van Gogh Alive is set to make its UK debut in Birmingham. The global exhibition is a perfect COVID-aware experience for the whole family that will provide some escapism and education. We find that adults and children enjoy the experience in different ways, finding their own meaning in Van Gogh’s work as they explore the galleries.

"We visited a number of venues in the UK, but as soon as we entered Birmingham Hippodrome, we knew we had to bring our Van Gogh Alive here. It is a unique, iconic venue and we truly believe once we tailor the experience to come alive in The Hippodrome, visitors won’t believe their eyes at the size, scale and beauty within."

Since announcing the opening in Sydney and re-opening in Mexico City with COVID-safe measures in place, demand for tickets has been even higher than pre-lockdown. We are confident that the experience will be extremely popular in Birmingham and we can’t wait to open the doors to our first ever UK showing!”

Having enjoyed enormous success in iconic cities such as Madrid, Singapore, Beijing, Abu Dhabi, Milan, and Rome, to name a few, the experience is set to place Birmingham firmly at the heart of the UK’s cultural recovery and provide a welcome morale boost to the whole Midlands region.

Ian Ward, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “We have a long and proud history in Birmingham of celebrating art and culture and Van Gogh Alive is a great opportunity to continue to support this vibrant and important industry. Like many other cities and communities across the UK, the Midlands has faced many challenges over the past few months, and it is important for us to get back inside our much-loved institutions and lift our spirits.

"I know I can speak on behalf of  Birmingham and the wider region when I say how excited I am that we are hosting the UK premier of Van Gogh Alive and I cannot wait to visit and experience it myself.”

Andy Street, the Mayor of the West Midlands, added: “Many sectors are going through an incredibly difficult period due to the coronavirus pandemic, and the arts is no exception. Birmingham Hippodrome has had its challenges, but it is a critical venue for the West Midlands, and it is great to see how it is adapting and thinking outside the box to overcome these challenges.

“The arrival of Grande Exhibitions and Van Gogh Alive is not only a boost for the Hippodrome, but it will also be great for the wider West Midlands economy, helping to draw visitors back to our region.”

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased from vangoghaliveuk.com.

Birmingham Hippodrome is set to host the UK premiere of Van Gogh Alive, a multi-sensory arts and entertainment experience for the whole family to enjoy.

Opening 8 Oct 2020, Van Gogh Alive, produced by Grande Exhibitions, has inspired over 6 million people across 50 cities around the world and is now set to transform Birmingham Hippodrome’s auditorium to display Van Gogh’s work in a spectacular immersive experience.

Van Gogh’s works have been exhibited and admired for over a century – but never like this. The multi-sensory experience provides visitors with the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Van Gogh’s artistry and truly venture into his world through beautifully curated projections accompanied by a stunning classical soundscape.

Fiona Allan, Artistic Director and Chief Executive Officer, Birmingham Hippodrome said: “Having been closed to the public since March, and it being financially unviable for Birmingham Hippodrome to reopen for live performance until social distancing guidance is relaxed, we have had to completely rethink how to use the building and how to serve our public. The opportunity to do something completely different with our spaces, and still provide a high quality and compelling cultural experience, came at exactly the right moment. 

"I’m proud we are partnering with Grande Exhibitions to host the UK premiere of Van Gogh Alive. Make no mistake, this is no ordinary art exhibition it is a ground-breaking and breathtaking multi-sensory experience, unlike anything seen before in the region. It gives us the reason we needed to reopen the Hippodrome to the public. Best still, we can operate it safely under social distancing guidelines, and I just know our visitors are going to be absolutely blown away.”

This will be the first time Birmingham Hippodrome has invited the public back into the building after being forced to close in March due to the global pandemic of COVID-19. This large-scale art event provides a COVID safe environment that exceeds government public health guidelines. Controlled visitor capacities and managed visitor flow mean visitors can easily respect government social-distancing guidelines.

Grande Exhibitions, the creator and producer of Van Gogh Alive, use state-of-the-art SENSORY4 immersive gallery technology, combined with a tailored exhibition space to allow crystal-clear projection of over 3000 inspirational images. Set to an evocative classical score, visitors are surrounded by a vibrant symphony of light, colour, sound and fragrance that has been called an ‘unforgettable’ multi-sensory experience. The technology brings Van Gogh's masterpieces to life and gives visitors the sensation of walking right into his paintings, a feeling that is simultaneously enchanting, entertaining and educational.

In addition to the main exhibition and gift shop, Van Gogh Alive will also feature interactive art stations, interpretative areas, a re-creation of Van Gogh’s ‘Bedroom in Arles’ and the hugely popular ‘Sunflower selfie room’.

Bruce Peterson, Owner of Grande Exhibitions, said: “We are incredibly excited that Van Gogh Alive is set to make its UK debut in Birmingham. The global exhibition is a perfect COVID-aware experience for the whole family that will provide some escapism and education. We find that adults and children enjoy the experience in different ways, finding their own meaning in Van Gogh’s work as they explore the galleries.

"We visited a number of venues in the UK, but as soon as we entered Birmingham Hippodrome, we knew we had to bring our Van Gogh Alive here. It is a unique, iconic venue and we truly believe once we tailor the experience to come alive in The Hippodrome, visitors won’t believe their eyes at the size, scale and beauty within."

Since announcing the opening in Sydney and re-opening in Mexico City with COVID-safe measures in place, demand for tickets has been even higher than pre-lockdown. We are confident that the experience will be extremely popular in Birmingham and we can’t wait to open the doors to our first ever UK showing!”

Having enjoyed enormous success in iconic cities such as Madrid, Singapore, Beijing, Abu Dhabi, Milan, and Rome, to name a few, the experience is set to place Birmingham firmly at the heart of the UK’s cultural recovery and provide a welcome morale boost to the whole Midlands region.

Ian Ward, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “We have a long and proud history in Birmingham of celebrating art and culture and Van Gogh Alive is a great opportunity to continue to support this vibrant and important industry. Like many other cities and communities across the UK, the Midlands has faced many challenges over the past few months, and it is important for us to get back inside our much-loved institutions and lift our spirits.

"I know I can speak on behalf of  Birmingham and the wider region when I say how excited I am that we are hosting the UK premier of Van Gogh Alive and I cannot wait to visit and experience it myself.”

Andy Street, the Mayor of the West Midlands, added: “Many sectors are going through an incredibly difficult period due to the coronavirus pandemic, and the arts is no exception. Birmingham Hippodrome has had its challenges, but it is a critical venue for the West Midlands, and it is great to see how it is adapting and thinking outside the box to overcome these challenges.

“The arrival of Grande Exhibitions and Van Gogh Alive is not only a boost for the Hippodrome, but it will also be great for the wider West Midlands economy, helping to draw visitors back to our region.”

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased from vangoghaliveuk.com.

Tributes were paid to legendary actor Dame Diana Rigg, following her passing.

Best known for her roles in ‘The Avengers’, ‘Game of Thrones’ and the Bond film ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service’, she died of cancer, which was diagnosed in March.

Her acting career on stage and screen stretched out over more than 60 years. She first found fame in the mid-’60s when she was cast in ‘The Avengers’ as secret agent Emma Peel, an iconic character who was embraced as a style icon and a feminist role model. After quitting the series in 1968, she starred opposite George Lazenby in the 1969 Bond film ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service’, in which she played 007’s wife, Countess Teresa di Vicenzo.

She later won a BAFTA TV Award for her performance as a difficult mother-in-law in the 1989 miniseries ‘Mother Love’ and an Emmy Award for her portrayal of Mrs Danvers in a 1997 adaptation of Daphne Du Maurier‘s ‘Rebecca’.

For her more recent role as cunning matriarch Olyenna Tyrell in ‘Game of Thrones’ she earned four Emmy nominations, taking her career tally to nine.

She also appeared opposite her daughter Rachael Stirling in the 2013 Doctor Who episode ‘The Crimson Horror’.  

Her final movie role came in Edgar Wright‘s upcoming psychological horror movie ‘Last Night In Soho’, which is set for release in 2021.

She was also a highly revered stage actress who won the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play for her performance in a 1994 Broadway production of the Ancient Greek tragedy ‘Medea’. That same year, she was made a Dame by Queen Elizabeth II for her services to drama.

The Oscar-winning screenwriter and playwright Sir Tom Stoppard shared a heartfelt tribute to her, saying: “For half her life Diana was the most beautiful woman in the room, but she was what used to be called a Trouper.

“She went to work with her sleeves rolled up and a smile for everyone. Her talent was luminous.”

Passed away peacefully, she was 82.

British superstar Stormzy has dedicated the video for his song Superheroes to Black Panther star Chadwick Boseman.

The multi-award winner said the late actor, who recently died after a lengthy battle with cancer, would be "forever a superhero in our hearts" in a caption at the end of the promo.

Introducing the video, the rapper told fans: "You are a superhero in your own right, and don't ever forget that."

The animated video includes references to Black Lives Matter as well as fellow rappers Little Simz and Dave.

The track's lyrics also mention singer Nina Simone and Noughts and Crosses author Malorie Blackman.

On the track, taken from his 2019 album Heavy Is the Head, he sends a message of encouragement to "young black kings" and "young Black Queens" - ordinary young people who may be struggling but are heroes in their own lives.

In his introduction, Stormzy said the track was inspired by his realisation that role models had been all around him growing up.

He said: "We're all superheroes. As much as we come from where we come from, we might be disadvantaged, we might have so many obstacles in front of us, you are a superhero in your own right, and don't ever forget that. Those little skills that we have, those big skills that we have, those talents, those things that often go ignored, that makes you a superhero..

"I wanted to make this video to basically inspire you guys, to let you know that the sky is the limit, to let you know that all those things inside of you make you incredible."

The video, which was directed by Taz Tron Delix, was shown at schools in London, Glasgow, Dublin and Manchester.

Boseman played Marvel's first Black superhero and his death prompted a deluge of tributes from his fellow actors plus politicians and many others around the world.

Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong'o wrote a stirring tribute to her late Black Panther co-star Chadwick Boseman, calling him a man whose power will ”reverberate for generations”.

She went on: “I write these words from a place of hopelessness, to honour a man who had great hope.

“The news of his passing is a punch to my gut every morning. His power lives on and will reverberate for generations to come."

Photo by Frank Schwichtenberg under CreativeCommons (CC)

Sampad South Asian Arts and Heritage, one of the UK’s leading arts development agencies, announces the launch of MY CITY, MY HOME, a major, specially commissioned, international writing competition for women and girls from diverse communities in Birmingham (UK), Bangladesh and Pakistan.

MY CITY, MY HOME is part of Transforming Narratives, a ground-breaking three- year project to establish Birmingham as a global centre for contemporary arts from Pakistan and Bangladesh.

MY CITY, MY HOME will reach out to emerging female writers from all three locations resulting in a publication of selected works, together with live readings at events in the UK and other countries.

Piali Ray OBE., Director of Sampad said: “The identity and role of women is as diverse across cities and countries as is 21st century society. Cities are a melting pot of cosmopolitan cultures yet, there is a distinctiveness and roots that connect to the past.

“By launching MY CITY, MY HOME in what is Sampad’s 30th anniversary year, we want to give women and girls the chance to tell their story. We need to hear it from them.”

The competition is open to women and girls aged 16 and over and can be a response to, or a reflection on the phrase MY CITY, MY HOME. Run online, women can enter a poem, short-story, or other prose.  A maximum of two pieces of work can be entered and will be accepted in English, Urdu, and Bangla languages.

MY CITY, MY HOME will work with Project Associates in Pakistan and Bangladesh connecting online with diverse groups of women and girls in their countries and supporting them to participate.

Sophina Jagot, Transforming Narratives Project Manager added: “The Transforming Narratives programme is all about making connections between artists and creative practitioners in Birmingham, Bangladesh and Pakistan, and it seemed to us now more than ever we needed to support the cultural sector in making those connections.

“Sampad’s MY CITY, MY HOME promises to make and develop many new connections with groups of women and girls creating opportunities for them to participate and create for themselves. We look forward to hearing their stories.”.

Closing date for entries is 30 December 2020. Winners will be informed between 22-26 February 2021 and will each receive £200.00. Publication of winning entries and further selected pieces will be launched in Birmingham, Pakistan, and Bangladesh in summer 2021.

Supported by Arts Council England, Birmingham City Council, British Council and Transforming Narratives, MY CITY, MY HOME, is part of Sampad’s Sakshi (meaning Witness in Hindi) strand launched in 2018. Running until 2022 Sakshi will deliver a series of projects which focus on girls and women, to involve them in creative projects and to get their voices heard through the arts.