Synonymous with the world of entertainment – Soho, situated in the heart of London, is home to an array of integral arts institutions such as Soho Theatre, Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club and The Arts Club to name but a few. A hub for the creative mind, the industry has laid firm roots there for decades. Returning for their 5th year this January, the Soho London International Film Festival continues on with the locality’s artsy tradition – hosting a vast range of short films with stars including celebrated actors Mark Rylance, Riz Ahmed, Phil Davies and singer Toyah Wilcox all having created work, as well as emerging artists showcasing their craft. Taking place at De Lane Lea / Warner Bros Building from Thursday 23rd until Sunday 26th January, the festival will continue to champion original work, and will culminate in an awards ceremony whereby 16 categories will be acknowledged. Ahead of the event, festival founder and director Liz Farahadi tells us more about this vital platform and offers advice to anyone looking to submit work in the future!
Over 30 years ago, Yugoslavia, which consisted of 6 republics – Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro and Macedonia crumbled, the rise of ethno nationalism disbanding the six nations gradually post 1991, with each republic gaining independence and devastation resulting in the loss of lives. Bosnia and Herzegovina the victims of ethnic cleansing impacting the Bosnian Muslim population. Drawing on this harrowing part of the nation’s history, writer and Director Nebojsa Slijepcevic presents The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent, a short film based aboard a passenger train in 1993, travelling from Belgrade to Bar when tragically intercepted by paramilitary forces in an ethnic cleansing operation. The film focusing particularly on a man who ‘could remain silent’ or speak up against the autrocity. Currently shortlisted as an Oscar contender, Nebojsa tells us more about exploring this subject matter further and what he’s learned from creating the film.
With the charts currently an ever evolving reality by the week, with the likes of iTunes and Spotify shaping the way we consume music, Pop music’s journey within the first couple of decades into the new millennium has been fascinating to watch – pop the foundation of our mainstream musical landscape. Making their mark almost 30 years ago now with their confident, authentic, boisterous brand of pop, Five dominated the 90s UK Pop scene, hits such as “Keep On Movin” and “We Will Rock You” staples of their tenure at the top of the charts. Returning this Christmas to embark on the The Biggest 90s and 00s Disco Arena shows on Friday 13thand Saturday 14that OVO London and OVO Glasgow as well as the Kubix Arena Tour from 20thto 22ndDecember in Aberdeen, Leeds and Hull, band member Scott Robinson tells us more about what to expect.
In a day where generationally, we’ve witnessed a shift in how prospective couples meet, the online realm dominates interactions. Dating apps now a part of our digital fabric, perfectly curated accounts allow for us to portray ourselves in a light that we’d like to be seen in. Positive attributes understandably pushed to the forefront whereas our flaws – phased out or seldom addressed and with this, hard truths can often present themselves in various forms. Exploring this phenomenon of online dating and the aftermath of meeting someone you possibly envision yourself with, writer Victoria Buse reflects on her latest show Not In the Mood for Quiche Anymore, a resonant piece placing focus on main character, Becks’ hope to meet her dream man online, which she believes she has done, only to discover his criminal conviction. A timely work, especially in light of the current news cycle which has had a heavy focus on prison, Victoria tells us more about what inspired her to explore this narrative further, working with director Michael Gyngell and actor Laura Matthews and her hopes for staging the show in the future. 
London’s alternative to the world famous, month long arts festival Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the Camden Fringe Festival invites anyone and everyone to stage new works, whether established or newly established – their ethos being that everyone is welcome to participate. Now in its 18th year, the festival welcomes over 320 productions staged across 23 North London venues from 29th July until 25th August, the festival promising a mixed programme of stage up, musicals, physical theatre and more. Recipients of the ‘commendation for Outstanding Achievement’ at the London Pub Theatre Awards 2023, Camden Fringe Festival founders Michelle Flower and Zena Barrie tell us more about what to expect from this this year’s line up.
Martha Watson Allpress’ Lady Dealer made its debut last year at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and to critical acclaim. A year on, the hit show returns to the Bush Theatre for a month long run, again to critical acclaim. The show’s lead Charly, a drug dealer dealing with the after affects of heartbreak. Performer Alexa Davies, who reprises the role tells us more about the role, what she’s learned from taking part in the production and what audiences can expect!
Since the troupe’s inception 30 years ago, YAMATO Drummers have stunned the world with their visually striking Taiko drum adorned set ups and heart thumping rhythms, the company’s originator Masa Ogawa transporting the ancient Japanese performance form to the masses. The troupe’s next show stopping performance – The Wings of the Phoenix set to take to the Peacock Theatre stage from Tuesday 4th until Saturday 22nd June. Ahead of opening night, Masa tells us more about the show’s premise, why he’s excited to bring the show to London – one of the world’s greatest hubs for performance and entertainment and why you should attend the show!