Beabadoobee is excited to co-headline the BST Hyde Park Festival with Sabrina Carpenter on July 5. At the 2025 BRIT Awards, Beabadoobee expressed her admiration for Carpenter, stating, “She’s so lovely and we’ve spoken a couple of times, so I can’t wait to do that. It’s going to be really fun!” She looks forward to sharing her music in live settings.

In advance of her London performance, Beabadoobee is on The Space In Between Tour in the U.S. and Canada, promoting her 2024 album, This Is How Tomorrow Moves. Fans can expect a dynamic live show with numerous guitar changes: “I actually get scared that people will get annoyed at that because I’m constantly changing guitars — but expect a lot of different colored guitars!” she noted.

BST Hyde Park features a lineup of artists performing across three weekends, including Olivia Rodrigo and Zach Bryan, with Clairo joining Beabadoobee and Carpenter on July 5. Beabadoobee previously opened for Taylor Swift on her Eras Tour, describing the experience as surreal: “Imagine someone that you’ve listened to growing up… It’s just mental that someone I’m a massive fan of appreciates my music as much.”

Beabadoobee’s connection with Swift was particularly impactful, stating, “It was a trip. It was a massive trip. It was like I was on shrooms or something.” Her excitement continues as she prepares for her performances alongside Carpenter and others at BST Hyde Park.

Beabadoobee’s admiration for Sabrina Carpenter highlights the excitement surrounding their upcoming collaboration at BST Hyde Park. With her dynamic live performances, including numerous guitar changes, fans can expect a memorable show. Additionally, Beabadoobee’s experiences on tour with Taylor Swift have further shaped her musical journey, making this co-headlining performance significant for her.

Original Source: people.com

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The National Gallery’s exhibition “Siena: The Rise of Painting 1300-1350” showcases the early impact of Sienese artists, focusing on Simone Martini and Duccio. Francesco Petrarch’s praise of Martini captures the essence of their work, which brought a tender, expressive quality to medieval art, challenging the notions of the period’s distance from emotion.

The exhibition highlights portraits from Martini and Duccio, contrasting their work with that of Byzantine artists. Duccio’s tender portrayal of Mary and Jesus, particularly the painting where Jesus reaches for his mother’s face, marks a significant departure from stiff representations common at the time. This intimacy extends to Lorenzetti’s impressive Madonna del Latte.

Martini’s work, “Christ Discovered in the Temple,” adds depth to the emotional narrative, showcasing a nuanced family dynamic through the expressions of Mary and Joseph. This exhibition illustrates that the foundations of perspective and space transcend what was traditionally attributed to the Renaissance in Florence.

Duccio’s Maestà, central to the exhibition, exemplifies revolutionary spatial dynamics. The narrative panels depict Jesus’s challenges, each crafted with innovative depth perception and conveying real emotional stakes. This display parallels Dante’s insights and underscores Siena’s contributions to the evolution of painting.

The exhibition runs from 8 March to 22 June, inviting visitors to explore the vivid emotional landscapes of Sienese painting, and showcases how these early works significantly shaped Western art.

The “Siena: The Rise of Painting” exhibition reveals the transformative emotional depth and innovative techniques of Sienese artists. Through the works of Duccio and Martini, it illustrates the rich beginnings of Western art and its capacity to portray intimacy and real spaces long before the Renaissance. This historical showcase provides insight into the artistic evolution that originated in a small Italian city, offering an engaging exploration of emotional connection and perspective in the 14th century.

Original Source: www.theguardian.com

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TOCA Junior’s launch has been delayed until 2026 due to numerous challenges. The series, designed to fill the gap left by Ginetta Junior, faced difficulties from its inception, particularly in developing a bespoke car. Initially set for 2024, the start was postponed, highlighting the project’s complexity.

The unveiling of the Chevron B1417 at a launch event revealed a price of £78,500 + VAT, which deterred many potential entrants due to its high cost. Despite interest from some prominent teams, further commitments were sparse. Even following testing feedback from drivers, this was insufficient to guarantee broader support for the championship.

The cancellation of the 2025 season was anticipated, prompting organisers to shift strategies by implementing a centrally-run structure. This change aims to reduce costs and enhance control for participants. However, building trust again with potential entrants will be essential, given the setbacks faced so far.

Despite the challenges of the past two years without a junior championship at BTCC events, the future of TOCA Junior hinges on overcoming existing doubts. Other manufacturers have shown interest in simpler production models, but TOCA opted for a new rear-wheel-drive concept. Whether this gamble will pay off remains uncertain as they seek to solidify a successful framework for aspiring racers.

Overall, TOCA Junior’s delay until 2026 stems from high development costs, insufficient pre-launch support, and strategic missteps. A new centrally-run model is intended to attract participants, but rebuilding confidence in the series will be crucial for its success moving forward. The lack of a strong junior championship in BTCC events has been felt, highlighting the need for a viable solution in motorsport development.

Original Source: www.autosport.com

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London Fashion Week (LFW) runs for only four days and faces tough competition from major fashion capitals like New York and Paris. Financial constraints persist, yet creativity and ambition thrive. The brand SS Daley, backed by Harry Styles, featured poignant tributes in its show, including sweaters honouring the late style icon Marianne Faithfull. Celebrity attendance, like Lucy Punch, generated excitement and interest.

At the jewellery label Completed Works, actor Debi Mazar brought an engaging performance, showcasing the brand’s playful spirit. Florence Pugh’s monologue during Harris Reed’s show at Tate Modern celebrated the essence of dressing up, reinforcing British fashion’s cultural significance. Despite difficulties, British designers maintain a strong reputation internationally, with high-profile roles at luxury brands in Paris and Milan.

Designer Steven Stokey-Daley highlighted a current feeling of despondency in London’s fashion scene, noting that many top buyers neglect LFW. He believes London’s value still lies in its cultural roots. A report indicated LFW’s media influence was significantly below that of its global counterparts, indicating a need for renewed focus on the event.

Anna Jewsbury of Completed Works expressed that showcasing jewellery on the catwalk was intentional, aiming to present a fresh perspective within fashion. Many designers have begun to show less frequently, adopting a more flexible approach to presentations rather than the traditional biannual schedule. Conner Ives exemplifies this by planning an annual show based on a classic musical.

London Fashion Week grapples with securing its place against more prominent fashion events. Despite financial challenges, British creativity and talent persist, demonstrating a unique cultural identity. The shift towards fewer, more impactful presentations reflects a need for change in the fashion industry. As designers adapt, maintaining a strong sense of British heritage remains crucial for LFW’s future.

Original Source: www.odt.co.nz

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Lola Young’s latest London homecoming show at the O2 Forum Kentish Town showcased her growth as an artist. Her first full-length album, “This Wasn’t Meant For You Anyway,” reflects her internal struggles through intricate lyrics and production. The single “Messy” has propelled her into the spotlight, reaching top positions on charts both in the UK and the US, and she is gaining mainstream recognition through various media appearances.

At the concert, Young embraced the momentum of her recent successes, though she acknowledged the pressure of her rising career. The show, upgraded due to high demand, was a pivotal event as Young performed in her hometown after a year of US touring, establishing a more substantial fan base. Her evolution from early projects to her present sound demonstrates her artistic journey and determination to take creative control.

Young’s stage presence captivated the audience with bold performances and genuine interactions. She engaged with fans, demonstrating spontaneity during her set, particularly during collaborations like “Charlie” with Lil Yachty. Young admitted her fondness for London, declaring it irreplaceable despite her recent international tours.

Amid her powerful persona, Young’s tender vocals shone through, especially during intimate ballads like the unaccompanied performance of “What Is About Me.” She showcased her quick wit and relationship with the audience, teasing them about her viral hit “Don’t Hate Me” with playful banter, fostering a sense of connection throughout her set.

The show marked a significant moment in Young’s career, with songs like “Revolve Around You” echoing her journey and reflecting her newfound acclaim. Sharing a poem she wrote prior to performing highlighted her growth and appreciation for the moment.

The concert concluded with the anthemic “Messy,” which resonated deeply with fans. As they sang along, Young led them in an exhilarating finale, culminating in a collective cathartic release with shared screams, making it a memorable end to an unforgettable night.

Lola Young’s homecoming gig highlighted her artistic evolution, the success of her single “Messy,” and her growing popularity in the music industry. Her performance was marked by engaging interactions, a mix of vulnerability and confidence, and a celebration of her accomplishments. With a flourishing fanbase and impactful songs, Young is poised for even greater success in her musical career.

Original Source: www.billboard.com

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Green Lung, London’s folk-doom band, is carving out a significant place in doom metal with their recent performances. Their show at the Kentish Town Forum marks a pivotal moment in their career, drawing a full house and showcasing their rise from the underground. The band’s unique sound, a blend of heavy riffs and folky charm, sets them apart from their peers.

Supporting act Unto Others contributes with their goth metal style, performing tracks from their latest album, “Never, Neverland,” which resonate with the crowd. Highlights include energetic pieces like “Butterfly” and “Suicide Today,” alongside earlier tracks that have built their reputation.

Green Lung truly shines with their gripping opener, “Woodland Rites,” and dazzling stage presence. Their music combines Black Sabbath’s existential themes with Ghost’s theatrical flair, creating anthems that connect deeply with audiences. Tracks like “Mountain Throne” and “Reaper’s Scythe” exemplify this captivating fusion.

During the performance, the band incorporates a unique segment featuring the women of “Oosettes” for an acoustic rendition of “Song Of The Stones,” enhancing the song’s depth. Their orchestral elements also add to the ethereal atmosphere of pieces like “The Forest Church.”

As the concert builds to memorable tracks such as “Let The Devil In” and “One For Sorrow,” Green Lung emerges as the band the doom metal scene has awaited, exuding confidence and musical ambition. Their ability to command a larger stage challenges the norms of doom.

Green Lung is redefining the doom metal landscape with their unique folk-doom blend and impressive live performances. Their recent show at the Kentish Town Forum exemplified their growth and strong ambitions, while their theatrical elements and innovative collaborations enhance their music. With powerful anthems, they are set to become leaders in the genre, bridging the gap between underground and mainstream.

Original Source: www.loudersound.com

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London is preparing to celebrate International Women’s Day with a host of events highlighting women’s voices and achievements in the ongoing fight for women’s rights. One standout event is the HighlightHer exhibition at Granary Square, featuring outdoor public art by London artist Hanna Benihoud. It showcases sixteen captivating artworks that narrate the stories of inspiring women.

Set to launch on Wednesday, 5 March, the exhibition will transform the art benches in King’s Cross. The illustrations depict everyday women achieving extraordinary feats, such as expertly applying makeup during rush hour or managing multiple tasks before 9 am.

The exhibition will run until 30 March, with each of the 16 benches dedicated to a different woman or group, spotlighting their often-overlooked contributions. “There is something about the ‘ordinariness’ of womanhood that is actually quite magical. HighlightHer is a chance to celebrate the quiet chaos and joy of ‘ordinary’ women’s daily lives,” stated Hanna Benihoud.

To further enhance the exhibition, Hanna invites the community to share stories of remarkable women in their lives. Selected stories will be illustrated to continue the project, and submissions can be made via the King’s Cross Instagram page.

Chrissy Cullen, Place Marketing Director at King’s Cross, expressed that this event aims to recognise the significant contributions of women. She remarked, “HighlightHer is our way of honouring the women in our community who inspire us with their extraordinary stories. We hope this installation will encourage everyone to reflect on the impact of these remarkable women.”

The HighlightHer exhibition will be displayed at Granary Square from 5 to 30 March, offering a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the stories of extraordinary women. For more information, visit the official King’s Cross website.

The HighlightHer exhibition in King’s Cross, launching on March 5, celebrates everyday women and their extraordinary stories, encouraging community involvement through shared narratives. With 16 benches illustrating these contributions, the event aims to honour and uplift women’s voices during International Women’s Day and beyond.

Original Source: secretldn.com

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The upcoming Disney+ series, “A Thousand Blows,” presents a fresh perspective on Jamaican characters in Victorian London, navigating the illegal boxing scene during the 1880s. Stars Malachi Kirby and Francis Lovehall portray Hezekiah Moscow and Alec Munroe, respectively, who leave their Caribbean lives behind in pursuit of dreams.

In a discussion on BBC Radio London, Kirby highlighted the show’s focus on the resilience of a working-class community, stating, “It’s a story about a working-class community who go through life’s travails and they get knocked down and get back up.” Lovehall added that the struggle for success in that era is particularly significant for the characters.

Lovehall characterized Alec Munroe as loving and devoted to his dreams while also considering others before himself. The series is inspired by real individuals, both characters having ties to the historical Morant Bay rebellion in Jamaica, which led to their migration to London.

Kirby noted the unique portrayal of Jamaica in this period, asserting, “It’s a Jamaica that we haven’t really seen depicted before.” The creators, including Steven Knight and executive producer David Olusoga, aimed to showcase a more nuanced view of historical narratives, enriching the story of Hezekiah and Alec.

The show features positive narratives of hope and ambition, diverging from typical depictions of Jamaican characters in historical contexts. “It centres a different narrative – I’ve never watched something that follows two Jamaican men with dreams that aren’t enslaved,” said Lovehall.

Series one of “A Thousand Blows” is currently available on Disney+ in the UK. Follow BBC London on various social media platforms for updates.

The Disney+ series “A Thousand Blows” aims to reshape perceptions of Jamaican individuals in Victorian London. With an emphasis on resilience and ambition amid societal challenges, it showcases the lives of two real men who overcame adversity. The series not only tells their story but also seeks to highlight a lesser-known cultural narrative of Jamaica during that time.

Original Source: www.bbc.com

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Justin Timberlake has cancelled his concert in Columbus, Ohio, due to battling the flu, sharing the disappointing news just hours before the show at Nationwide Arena. In an Instagram post, he expressed his heartbreak over the cancellation and assured fans they would receive ticket refunds. This concert was meant to be the final night of his North American leg of the Forget Tomorrow World Tour, which had previously faced delays due to his illness in October.

Timberlake’s tour has experienced several cancellations and postponements since its launch in April 2023. Earlier this month, he had to postpone a concert in Newark due to an injury and cancelled a London show in February after falling ill. Despite these challenges, he expressed gratitude towards his team and fans, highlighting their support throughout the tour.

The Forget Tomorrow World Tour will continue overseas on March 21 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and conclude in Paris on July 20. Timberlake is also scheduled to perform at the BottleRock Napa Valley festival in California on May 24. Although the North American tour ended on a disappointing note, Timberlake has acknowledged the dedication of his tour family and fans on social media.

In summary, Justin Timberlake’s latest concert cancellation has left him upset, as he battles health issues. The show was part of his final North American tour dates, with plans to resume the tour in South America later this year. Fans can expect refunds for their tickets with reassurance from the artist as he navigates his recovery.

Original Source: www.rollingstone.com

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The New York Dolls, influenced by Morrissey’s 2004 reunion proposal, had their final performance on October 31, 2011, at the Clyde Auditorium in Glasgow. Initially sceptical, lead singer David Johansen found camaraderie with fellow members Sylvain Sylvain and Arthur “Killer” Kane, leading to a successful reunion and new music, despite the band’s original disbandment. After Kane’s passing, Johansen and Sylvain toured with new band members and released three albums, albeit not bestsellers, yet critically acclaimed. The band toured extensively until exhaustion led to a hiatus, marked by their last show without realising it would be their final performance.

The New York Dolls experienced a significant reunion in the 2000s, bringing joy to fans with their music despite various challenges and the loss of key members. Their final show in 2011 symbolised the end of an era, especially following the passing of Sylvain Sylvain and later, David Johansen. While the classic lineup has since disappeared, their legacy and influence on rock music remain.

Original Source: www.rollingstone.com

The post New York Dolls: Reflecting on Their Final Show and Legacy first appeared on The London Bell.