Category: LIFESTYLE

New play in London: Blood Wedding blazes onto the stage

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Updated: 25/04/2025

Barney Norris’ gripping adaptation of Blood Wedding is set to dazzle audiences at Clapham’s Omnibus Theatre, opening on Wednesday, 30 April and running until Saturday, 24 May. Presented by Two’s Company and Karl Sydow in association with Tilly Films, this London premiere reimagines Federico García Lorca’s passionate Spanish classic, bringing its timeless intensity to the heart of contemporary England. A Tale of Love, Betrayal, and Fate Set in a rural village on the edge of Salisbury Plain, Blood Wedding explores heightened emotions, unfulfilled longings, and the clash between choice and destiny. Georgie, a 22-year-old bride-to-be, finds herself torn between her fiancé, Rob, and her ex-lover, Lee. What begins as a wedding filled with joy and anticipation quickly takes a dark and ominous turn, as Norris weaves a tale of dreams, heartbreak, and the inevitable consequences of following one’s instincts. Taking inspiration from Lorca’s original 1932 play, Norris infuses the story with a uniquely modern perspective, capturing the dreams and fears that resonate with young couples today. Reflecting on his adaptation, he muses on the role of comedy within the tragedy, stating, “Comedy makes us feel things more deeply. Comedy activates us. And comedy is the English ‘duende’. Lorca’s ‘duende’ comes from the soil of Spain to the soles of people’s feet. Ours is made of laughter.” The Stellar Creative Team and Cast Crafting this layered production is director Tricia Thorns, alongside a talented creative team that includes Alex Marker on set design, Carla Joy Evans on costume design, Neill Brinkworth on lighting design, and Dominic… Read More

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON, THEATRE

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Dan Murphy’s best wines: ‘Best in Glass’ Wine Awards

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Posted: 25/04/2025

Wine lovers, rejoice! Dan Murphy’s unveiled the winners of its inaugural Best in Glass Wine Awards at an exclusive ceremony in Melbourne. This groundbreaking event celebrated Australia’s best, most affordable, and internationally acclaimed wines, offering a curated selection that proves great wine doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. From the 46 category winners, many of the wines were priced under $15, making premium wine experiences more accessible than ever. Among the most affordable winners were the Fifth Leg Semillon Sauvignon Blanc ($13.29) and Shingleback Red Knot Shiraz ($12.99), both honored as Best Value picks. A Taste of Excellence These awards are the result of a rigorous judging process that saw Dan Murphy’s expert Wine Merchants taste over 700 wines, eventually shortlisting and re-tasting finalists to crown winners across a variety of categories. Departing from traditional medal-heavy wine competitions, the Best in Glass Awards focus on simplicity, naming just three winners in each category: Best, Best Value, and Best International. This streamlined approach makes it easy for everyday wine enthusiasts to confidently select the perfect bottle. “Choosing a wine can be intimidating,” shared Andrew Shedden, General Manager of Premium and Luxury. “The Best in Glass Wine Awards are about cutting through the noise. Our most wine-obsessed Merchants have uncovered Aussie favorites and international gems for every drinking occasion, from steak night to date night.” Top-Performing Regions and Countries South Australia emerged as the star of the evening, with 13 wins making up 26.09% of the winners. Beloved regions like Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale,… Read More

Category: FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE

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Here’s a good reason to visit Cyprus this summer

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Posted: 21/04/2025

Looking for the perfect way to make your summer unforgettable? Aphrodite Hills Resort in Paphos, Cyprus, has the ultimate treat for sports lovers and families alike. This summer, the luxury resort will play host to two exciting training camps led by global sporting icons Royce Gracie and Emile Heskey. Add in sun-soaked Mediterranean views, top-tier facilities, and a mix of relaxation and action, and you’ve got a summer adventure like no other. A Dream Summer Destination Nestled on 234 breathtaking hectares overlooking the Mediterranean, Aphrodite Hills Resort is more than just a retreat; it’s a haven for summer fun and sporting excitement. This award-winning resort boasts everything from premier facilities for golf, tennis, and football to options like cycling and equestrian adventures through scenic Cypriot countryside. Whether you’re traveling with family or on your own, it’s the ideal setting for combining leisure with memorable moments. Summer Kickoff with Royce Gracie Starting April 21, you can jump into summer by participating in the exclusive ‘Ultimate Royce Gracie Training Camp in Cyprus.’ Perfect for martial arts fans or anyone interested in self-defense, this six-day program is a rare chance to learn from one of the most legendary names in mixed martial arts history. Gracie, in collaboration with SOHA Retreats, will share ju-jitsu techniques alongside top instructors from Gracie Concepts and acclaimed coach Andy Roberts BJJ. Whether you’re new to martial arts or you’ve been honing your skills for years, this is your chance to push yourself and learn something extraordinary. Starting at €2,276 per person, the package… Read More

Category: EUROPE, LIFESTYLE, TRAVEL

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2025 World Press Photo Contest has a winner

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Posted: 20/04/2025

The World Press Photo Contest has long been a beacon for showcasing some of the most striking and impactful visual storytelling in photojournalism. This year’s winners, announced on April 17, 2025, continue this vital tradition, shedding light on pivotal global issues through exceptional images. The prestigious 2025 World Press Photo of the Year award has been granted to Samar Abu Elouf, a Palestinian photographer based in Doha, for her deeply moving portrait of resilience in the aftermath of conflict. Two other finalists were also selected, highlighting critical topics of migration and climate change. Together, these images offer both a window into the complexities of the modern world and a call to action. The Photo of the Year: Mahmoud Ajjour, Aged Nine The winning photograph by Samar Abu Elouf, taken for The New York Times, captures a quiet yet deeply evocative moment in the life of Mahmoud Ajjour, a nine-year-old boy recovering from devastating injuries sustained during an Israeli attack on Gaza in 2024. The image depicts Mahmoud facing a window, a soft light warming one side of his face. At first, one might notice the innocence in his expression, but the full weight of the photo is revealed as it becomes clear he has lost both arms. The scene is haunting in its juxtaposition of his tender age and the irreversible scars of war. Mahmoud’s story is one of both unimaginable loss and remarkable strength. During an attack in Gaza City, an explosion claimed one of his arms and mutilated the other as he tried… Read More

Category: ART, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

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New restaurant in Windsor Melbourne: Duke Lane brings something new

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Updated: 12/04/2025

Melbourne foodies, take note – there’s a new kid on the block, and it’s making some serious noise. Duke Lane, the latest addition to Windsor’s buzzing dining scene, has officially opened its doors, promising Latin American vibes with a fresh, local twist. Nestled in the iconic space that once housed Saigon Sally, this vibrant restaurant and bar isn’t just about great food – it’s about turning every meal into an unforgettable experience. Founded by Dijon Gordon, Duke Lane is more than just a business venture; it’s deeply personal. “Losing my brother was a reminder to treasure every moment,” says Gordon. “I wanted to create a place where people could come together, celebrate, and really enjoy life. Duke Lane is about connection, joy, and great food shared with the people you love.” And that ethos is baked into every little detail, from the lively atmosphere to the menu designed for sharing. Flavours to Remember The menu at Duke Lane is a mouthwatering fusion of Latin American influences and Melbourne’s culinary flair. It’s got something for everyone, whether you’re a comfort food fanatic or prefer to dabble in bold, adventurous eats. Start with the Arepitas – mini arepas topped with slow-cooked beef brisket, guacamole, and pico de gallo. Vegan? No worries, they’ve got you covered. The Parmesan Potato Balls are golden little morsels of happiness, blending creamy potato with a parmesan kick. For something heftier, the 300g Porterhouse is flame-grilled with a signature spice rub, paired with house-made chimichurri or creamy pepper sauce. Prefer seafood? The Sesame… Read More

Category: AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE

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Divide 8 brings award-winning pizzas to Stanmore Sydney

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Updated: 12/04/2025

Exciting news, Stanmore locals! Divide 8, the award-winning pizza store that’s stolen hearts (and stomachs) in Gymea and Bronte, has officially opened its third location. And, honestly, it’s about time Inner West got a slice of the action. With plans already underway for a fourth store in April, Divide 8 is proving it’s here to do more than just toss dough around – although they’re pretty exceptional at that too. Nestled right into the buzzing backdrop of Percival Road, the new venue oozes charm and thoughtfulness. It’s got that “local favourite” vibe down to a fine art, effortlessly blending into the neighbourhood. The space seats just 20 people, split between cosy indoor spots and an inviting outdoor set-up. Exposed brick walls lend a nod to the area’s heritage, paired with pops of Divide 8’s signature orange to brighten things up. Whether you’re after a laid-back dinner or a quick takeaway, this place nails the balance of modern style and warm authenticity. But enough about the décor, because it’s the food that’s the real star here. Divide 8 has built its name on fresh, high-quality pizzas, and they’ve kept that same energy for their Stanmore spot. Every ingredient is prepared in-house – the dough, sauces, seasonings, even the fresh pineapple chunks they dice daily. And they’re not just slapping toppings on a pre-made base, either. They’ve collaborated with Hearthe, a local Stanmore bakery, to bring their freshly baked sourdough into the mix. Their garlic bread, topped with whipped confit garlic butter and herbs, is a $12… Read More

Category: AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

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London theatre: The Psychiatrist premieres at The White Bear

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Posted: 12/04/2025

This April, The White Bear in Kennington will host the world premiere of The Psychiatrist, a powerful new play by Julian Bird. Running from 8–26 April 2025, this two-hander sheds light on the unseen struggles of psychiatrists, with Bird drawing on his decades of experience in the field to craft an authentic and thought-provoking story. The Psychiatrist explores the challenging dynamic of mental health professionals balancing their personal wellbeing with their demanding roles. Based on real events, the play portrays a psychiatrist caught between inadequate resources at work and deep personal loss, leading him to seek therapy himself. The audience sees the main character alternately as a therapist and a patient, uncovering the emotional complexity of working in mental health care. Bird not only wrote the play but also stars in the title role. After a 40-year career as a psychiatrist and physician, he embarked on an acting career in his sixties, training at The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. His acting credits include acclaimed roles in theatre (Freud’s Last Session at the King’s Head) and TV (EastEnders, The Tudors). “From my own experience, I am well aware that at times of stress, the mental health of psychiatrists can be a critical factor in the treatment of their patients,” said Bird. The Psychiatrist offers a vivid glimpse into these often-unseen tensions and provides a unique perspective on the mental health struggles faced by those tasked with caring for others. The play is directed by Kenneth Michaels, who returns to The White Bear after… Read More

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON, THEATRE

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