Category: LONDON

Brexit be damned, Eurail lets you train it to England for cheaper

Updated: 16/01/2019

Eurail turns 60 in 2019 and to celebrate, they’re changing how you do Europe when you next travel. By sucking up the UK, Macedonia and Lithuania into their connected rails, Eurail has cast its net far and wide for everyone who’s wanting to go from the east to the west of Europe and beyond from now on. Oh, and it’s cheaper now, too. The updates to the Eurail portfolio mean there are now three different passes that include the Greek Islands Pass which lets travellers explore up to 53 different Greek Islands. In a nutshell, the changes mean tickets are significantly reduced for Global Pass fares, new countries are accessible with a Global Pass, and if you’re old, get excited because there are extend discounts to senior travellers. For the last 60 years, EurailPasses have enabled convenient, borderless rail travel across Europe. With over 1.7million Australians travelling to Europe each year, and of those 40,000 experiencing the diversity of Europe via one of the flexible rail passes, Eurail remains as popular today as it was in 1959. Eurail train passes can be bought from eurail.com.

Category: CITIES, FEATURES, LONDON, TRAVEL

Tags: Brexit, Brexit Eurail, Eurail expands, Eurail Greek Islands, Eurail new lines, Eurail THE F review, Eural, Eural Macedonia, THE F Brexit, THE F Eurail

British Airways are doing 100 acts of kindness this 2019

by James Banham

Posted: 01/01/2019

British Airways has created some extra special Christmas magic for a group of kids by taking them on the trip of a lifetime to New York City. They were taken to ‘live like Kevin’, a concept inspired by the story of Kevin in Home Alone 2. British Airways is all about Christmas and Chrissy surprises this season and they’ve even documented the whole shebang in two videos they’ve produced of the fun times in NYC. A little bit American movie-style, a little bit cute, they’re worth a watch: The second video is a longer chronicle of their adventure and is equally as cute. it was a three-day trip to NYC, where British Airways pulled out all the movie-style stops, with a stay at the iconic Plaza Hotel, ice skating in Central Park, a visit to the Rockettes show at the Radio City Music Hall, toy shopping in the newly re-opened FAO Schwarz and an ice cream feast in the Plaza Hotel’s most exclusive and prestigious guest room, The Presidential Suite. See more about the program and how you can go into the running to win a little bit of magic this 2019 thanks to British Airways at their website.

Category: CITIES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON, TRAVEL

Tags: British Airways, British Airways magic, THE F British Airways

Christmas has landed in London all along Oxford Street

by James Banham

Posted: 07/11/2018

Emerging musicians Novelist, Ray Blk, Kara Marni and Isaac Waddington and more kicked-off the festivities in London as they switched on the Christmas lights along Oxford Street. And it was pretty. Oxford Street officially kicked off Christmas in the capital as the iconic lights were illuminated along London’s world famous high street. Along with Capital XTRA – the UK’s leading national urban radio station – Oxford Street turned the traditional switch-on on its head with a night of in-store performances and a heap of other stuff. Over 90 stores joined in the celebrations making it the biggest Christmas shopping event London has ever seen with extended opening hours, offers and experiences showcasing the unrivalled festive offering available, across fashion, food, fitness, tech and more. The night time switching on of the lights kicks off the start of a seven week campaign at Oxford Street which will see its retailers delivering a series of seasonally themed in-store activations and shopping experiences, including 50 ‘surprise’ Christmas shopping treats. Check out more at the Oxford Street website.

Category: CITIES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: christmas lights london, Christmas London, oxford street, oxford street switching on

10 things to do this summer in London

by THE F

Updated: 16/11/2022

London really comes alive in the summer. The whole city is absolutely teeming with life and activity, which brings in people from all over the world to enjoy the vibrant buzz of the town. The streets of London are one of the best places to be during the warming months and you are spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding how to fill your free time. So, if you’re wondering what the best of the best things to do in London this summer are, Base London have put together a top ten. Whether you’re hanging out with friends at the weekend, planning a first date or you’re just visiting with your family, there is something for everyone to enjoy. 1. Movies on the River , Tower Millennium Pier, Aldgate, Until 18 August The perfect choice for a romantic date night, you can watch a movie whilst floating down the River Thames at sunset. With amazing views and a brilliant atmosphere, this summer night time activity is not to be missed. Depending on when you decide to go, you can choose from a massive range of films including Jaws, Dirty Dancing, The Greatest Showman, The Shape of Water, Get Out and more! Just make sure you’re equipped with a pair of rubber-soled shoes so you’ll be looking dapper and feeling sure-stepped on the boat. 2. Underbelly Festival, London’s Southbank, Until 30 September This year’s Underbelly Festival is celebrating its 10th Birthday and is the biggest one yet! There are so many exciting acts to enjoy… Read More

Category: CITIES, FEATURES, LONDON

Tags: london, london guide, summer london, The F London, the f uk, what to do london, what to do summer london

Talking women in business with Isabelle Dubern, co-founder of The Invisible Collection

by James Banham

Posted: 19/06/2018

The Invisible Collection is an e-commerce outlet selling bespoke pieces crafted by renowned interior designers – and well! – But it’s the way they sell their furniture online that sets them apart from the rest. They have a very curated offering, bespoke sourcing services to industry and private clients and strong links with their artists and designers, acting as agents to organise pop ups and events worldwide, all the while creating strong and sustained visibility to all the talents they live to showcase. We had a chat with Isabelle Dubern, the woman behind the work, about it all. How do you explain the success of The Invisible Collection, pioneer on the e-commerce market of collectible furniture, after a year of existence? Just like music and fashion, the furniture industry is a cultural business. With The Invisible Collection, culture is a prerequisite for the purchase of furniture pieces. If our customers did not have this cultural knowledge, they would not buy pieces at the prices we practice on the site. The Internet has fundamentally changed the way culture is conveyed, music is the best example, and the same lessons apply to fashion, art and decoration. Art has already largely begun this shift: one out of two clients that participate in auctions online at Christies is a new customer for the auction house. Moreover, the furniture pieces of the interior designers we present are luxury products, both from the craftsmanship and the creativity that go into them. According to Mac Kinsey, online luxury sales will triple in… Read More

Category: CITIES, LONDON

Tags: invisible collection, women in business

ARTS & CULTURE

Rum Tum Tugger and 2022 International Tour Company c Alessandro Pinna

CATS the musical is coming back to Sydney

17/10/2024

By James Banham

Step into a world of enchanting felines and timeless melodies as Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic musical, CATS, returns to Theatre Royal Sydney. Celebrating its 40th anniversary in June 2025, this legendary production is set to captivate audiences once more, in the very theatre where its Australian journey began back in 1985. CATS first leapt onto the stage at the New London Theatre in 1981, revolutionising musical theatre with its dazzling fusion of music, dance, and T.S. Eliot’s whimsical poetry from Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats. Since then, it has mesmerised over 81 million viewers across more than 50 countries, earning accolades including the Olivier and Evening Standard Awards for Best Musical. On Broadway, it reigned supreme for 18 years, collecting seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and establishing itself as a defining piece of the British “mega-musical” phenomenon. Producer John Frost of Crossroads Live reflects on the show’s enduring allure: “CATS is a legendary show that I’ve admired for over 40 years. A sparkling fusion of music, dance, and verse, it was revolutionary when it first opened and enticed new audiences into the world of musical theatre. I can’t wait to bring the original production of CATS back to Australia where it all began, at Theatre Royal Sydney, to celebrate its 40th anniversary in Australia.” The magic of CATS lies in its heartwarming tale of the Jellicle cat tribe. Each year, these unique felines gather for the Jellicle Ball, where their wise leader, Old Deuteronomy, makes the pivotal Jellicle choice, deciding which cat will… Read More

Dance, theatre and live music come together in Nobodaddy at Sadler’s Wells

17/10/2024

By James Banham

Experience the magic of dance at Sadler’s Wells Theatre this November with the enchanting production of “Nobodaddy,” brought to life by the brilliant Michael Keegan-Dolan and his acclaimed company, Tea? Da?sa. Running from 27th to 30th November, this groundbreaking performance promises to captivate audiences with its innovative fusion of dance, theatre, and live music. Following the success of their previous work, Mám, Keegan-Dolan returns to Sadler’s Wells with Nobodaddy, a powerful and evocative creation co-produced by Sadler’s Wells and making its London premiere. Inspired by a William Blake poem, this production emerges from the heart of Ireland’s Gaeltacht in West Kerry, offering a unique exploration of themes that resonate deeply with audiences. Nobodaddy is a large-scale dance and theatre ritual, featuring nine dancers seamlessly blending movement with song, accompanied by six musicians performing live on stage. The piece includes the extraordinary talents of renowned folk singer Sam Amidon, whose expertise in banjo, guitar, and fiddle enriches the performance. With seven acclaimed solo albums to his name, Amidon’s collaboration with Tea? Da?sa brings a vibrant, musical heartbeat to this immersive experience. The name “Nobodaddy,” an anagram for “Old daddy Nobody” or “Nobody’s daddy,” was coined by English Romantic poet William Blake. While Blake’s Nobodaddy represented a destructive divinity, Tea? Da?sa’s interpretation is a tribute to peacemakers and the harbingers of goodwill—an artistic nod to the power of unity and creativity. Created over eight weeks in the scenic surroundings of Kerry, Nobodaddy is a testament to Keegan-Dolan’s distinctive style of contemporary dance. The production is a celebration… Read More

The Lehman Trilogy 2024 L R Howard W Overshown Aaron Krohn © Mark Douet 50A6969.JPG

Lehman Trilogy is the play to see in London this season

13/10/2024

By James Banham

The return of The Lehman Trilogy to London’s West End is nothing short of a theatrical triumph. Having garnered critical acclaim and five Tony Awards®, this production reclaims its rightful place on the stage at the Gillian Lynne Theatre, dazzling audiences with its epic narrative and stellar performances. With its limited run until 5 January 2025, this is an unmissable opportunity to witness a play that has captivated over half a million viewers worldwide. Penned by the masterful Stefano Massini, adapted by Ben Power, and brought to life by the visionary director Sam Mendes, The Lehman Trilogy is a sweeping saga that chronicles the rise and fall of a family that not only changed the world but also shaped modern financial history. The story begins on a cold September morning in 1844, with a young Bavarian immigrant dreaming of a new life, and unfolds into a gripping tale spanning 163 years, culminating in the dramatic collapse of Lehman Brothers. This production boasts a formidable cast, with John Heffernan delivering a magnetic performance as Henry Lehman. Heffernan, known for his roles in Edward II and Oppenheimer, brings depth and nuance to the character. Alongside him, Aaron Krohn shines as Mayer Lehman, drawing on his rich experience with Sam Mendes’ previous works, including Cabaret and The Bridge Project. Howard W. Overshown rounds out the trio with his compelling portrayal of Emanuel Lehman, further solidifying his reputation from notable performances in Richard III and A Soldier’s Play. The ensemble is supported by a creative dream team, including set… Read More

What to see at Victorian Opera’s 2025 season

09/10/2024

By James Banham

Victorian Opera’s Season 2025 is set to be a dazzling display of theatrical brilliance, blending rare operatic masterpieces with the glitz of Broadway and literary adaptations. Topping the season’s bill is the first-ever fully staged production of Stephen Sondheim’s Tony Award-winning musical, “Follies,” running from February 1-6 at the iconic Palais Theatre in St Kilda. Picture this: a run-down theatre on the brink of demolition becomes the backdrop for a starry reunion of former chorus girls, rekindling the magic of their interwar performances. With luminaries like Marina Prior, Antoinette Halloran, and Rhonda Burchmore gracing the stage, it’s bound to be a spectacle that will go down in Australian musical theatre history. Under the expert artistic direction of Stuart Maunder AM, Victorian Opera continues to innovate and enchant. After their previous successes with productions like “Sweeney Todd” and “My Fair Lady,” Maunder once again teams up with Tony Award-winning designer Roger Kirk AM to bring this glamorous vision to life. The musical prowess of Phoebe Briggs and Orchestra Victoria will ensure a mesmerizing auditory experience. Come August, the Palais Theatre will once again be abuzz with excitement as Victorian Opera presents a fresh take on Mozart’s “The Abduction from the Seraglio.” This darkly comic opera is a heady mix of romance, heroism, and a touch of humor, set against Mozart’s emotionally charged score. Directed by Constantine Costi and featuring talents like Cleo Lee-McGowan and Katherine Allen, this production promises a thrilling ride through an operatic landscape filled with loyalty, love, and laughter. October brings us “Katya… Read More

If you like art, then you need to visit Royal Academy London

05/10/2024

By James Banham

At the dawn of the 16th century, the artistic landscape of Republican Florence became the stage for an extraordinary convergence of talent and ambition. Three illustrious figures of the Italian Renaissance—Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael—found themselves vying for the favor of the city’s most influential patrons. On January 25, 1504, Florence’s leading artists gathered to determine the rightful home for Michelangelo’s nearly completed masterpiece, David. This pivotal meeting included Leonardo da Vinci, who, like Michelangelo, had recently returned to his birthplace, setting the scene for a creative rivalry that would shape the Renaissance. The exhibition, beginning with Michelangelo’s acclaimed Taddei Tondo, delves into the competitive yet inspiring relationship between Michelangelo and Leonardo, and the profound impact they had on the youthful Raphael. Visitors will encounter some of the finest examples of Italian Renaissance drawing, including Leonardo’s Burlington House Cartoon and preparatory studies by both Leonardo and Michelangelo for their murals commissioned by the Florentine government for the newly built council hall in the Palazzo Vecchio. Organised by the Royal Academy of Arts, London, in collaboration with the Royal Collection Trust and the National Gallery, this exhibition offers a captivating journey through the artistic rivalry and collaboration that defined a pivotal era in art history. Michelangelo, Leonardo, RaphaelFlorence, c. 15049 November 2024 – 16 February 202510am–6pm, Tuesdays to Sundays10am-9pm, Fridays