Alaa Scheuer has won hearts with his beautiful performance in Egyptian television series. He is widely known for his spectacular performances in Nesr El Said or The Eagle of Upper Egypt as he is called in English (2018).
Alaa is one of the rising faces of the Egyptian film industry known as the Hollywood of the Arab world. He also won several awards early on in his career.
Who is Alaa Scheuer?
Alaa Scheuer was born on October 15, 1992 in Cairo, Egypt. The 28-year-old actor has starred in television series, web series and commercials. Alaa was passionate about acting and cinema from a very young age. He has always participated in the school play, won several awards related to theater and culture.
Alaa loved to be at a time when all eyes were on him, and he could express himself as freely as possible. Growing up, Alaa graduated from the American College in Greece with a Bachelor of Media degree. He always tried to be more practical in media and entertainment and began to communicate with prominent figures in the Egyptian film industry.
He also earned a Master’s Degree in Leadership and Innovation in Contemporary Media from the American University of Dubai. While studying in media and entertainment, he learned to confidently face the camera and the fundamentals of the film industry.
Before starting his career, he completed more than seven international acting workshops in the UK, UAE, USA, Greece and Egypt. Traveling to these countries and meeting people with different views in the film industry helped him gain a clear vision. Although he studied a lot and learned about filmmaking and acting, he believes that training will never stop.
His early career was not an easy walk for him. But he was fortunate that the first scene of his career also featured several legendary actors who have starred in over 600 Egyptian films. He feels humiliated to be part of the Egyptian film industry, which is considered the Hollywood, Bollywood and Nollywood of the Arab world.
Alaa Scheuer was part of the blockbuster series Nesr El Said, which gave him a huge boost in his acting career. The series is one of the first milestones in his career. Alaa got the opportunity to work with Egyptian superstar Mohammed Ramadan, who has a huge following across the Middle East. This series really introduced Alaa Scheuer as an actor to a wide audience.
In addition to films, Alaa starred in several TV series and serials. He was part of Khat Sakhen (2018), which also featured Syrian superstar Sulaf Fawakherjit. Alaa Scheuer was critically acclaimed for his performances and dialogues with the delivery office on the show. He is currently working on several upcoming projects, namely 9th Street, a new series.
Along with his acting skills, he is an absolute wizard and is known as the Brad Pitt of Egypt. Like Brad Pitt and Tom Hardy, he is working to become one of the most versatile actors in the world.


|Introduction||The Making of the Play||
We are Mrs. Hanson's 2001-2002 5/6 class of Crichton Park School. We hope this site will teach you about two main things, our production of an adaptation of William Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night" and how you and your class can perform a play just like us! On our site, you can find information and pictures of the making of the play, artwork and writing, our reflections on the performance, and much more!
|Reviews from the Audience||Bloopers|
|Cast Reflections||The Storyline|
This site was created in June 2002
We have had visitors since then!
If you have any questions or comments, please email us at email@example.com


15 West 5th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, Canada V5Y 1H4
Something About Company
Based in Vancouver BC, we are a world-class visual effects studio led by a team of creative and passionate individuals who are committed to furthering the art of visual storytelling, and helping our exceptionally talented crew to push the boundaries of artistic and technical achievement.
Well known for our Academy Award Nominated work on Neill Blomkamp’s District 9, we have gone on to create numerous incredible creatures, epic environments and extraordinary digital effects for a broad range of feature films including; Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, Game of Thrones, Spiderman: Far From Home, Fantastic Beast: The Crimes of Grindelwald and The Mandalorian.
We can do this because we place awesome new tools in the hands of our artists. R&D is central to our philosophy of driving creativity through innovation, with a focus on continually evolving our robust production pipelines and pioneering in the area of proprietary software development.
VFX Online is Online Media. It’s Global Directory for Visual Effects and Animation.


This year, I read all of Shakespeare’s plays. I don’t know why, exactly, I decided to do it, but I did. I’d meant to read the poetry, too, but that didn’t happen. Another time. Since I love to rank things, I thought it would be fun to discuss the experience a bit and rank my most and least favorite plays of his.
I decided to read them chronologically (as best I could manage, the dates are often uncertain), and I’m glad I did. Shakespeare’s career has a clear arc. He is very, very inconsistent early, has a middle period in which almost everything is a masterpiece and closes uncertainly, if not so spottily as he starts. At the beginning of his career, he reads like someone still learning his craft, and at the end, he reads as someone straining against his limitations. There is very clear development and it’s interesting to watch it unfold. Writers like Shakespeare are too often spoken of in hushed tones, as though they were not human. Well, he was. He was human. He was a great writer much of the time, but sometimes, he kind of stunk. It happens. There’s a reason his lesser known plays are lesser known.
Time for a bit of ranking. I read a total of 39 plays with an average rating of 3.9 our of 5 (that’s not bad!). I’m going to start with the ten worst. These are the plays that you’d have to pay me to revisit…
- (the worst) Titus Andronicus – This was a first of Shakespeare’s tragedies, and I find it completely worthless. It is steeped in misogyny and pointless violence (early Shakespeare was often quite misogynist, something that he seems to have gotten past in his later work).
- All’s Well that Ends Well – The only play other than Titus to garner the lowest rating (1/5).
- Troillus and Cressida
- Timon of Athens
- Edward III (3-5 are all collaborations and likely suffer by way of the collaborators more than Shakespeare)
- The Taming of the Shrew
- Love’s Labours Lost (the comedies were often disappointing, he uses the same jokes over and over).
- Pericles, Prince of Tyre (another collaboration)
- Henry Vi, Part 2
- The Merry Wives of Windsor
The above group represents all of the plays which garnered a rating below a 4. What follows is a list of all 5s. These are my favorites in some kind of preferential order.
- The Tempest
- King Lear
- As You Like It
- The Winter’s Tale
- Julius Caesar
- A Midsummer Night’s Dream
- Richard II
- Henry IV, Part 2
I am, it seems, one for the tragedies and romances. As noted above, the comedies don’t often work for me, though some of them are truly brilliant. There is a wonderful run of histories that begins with Richard II and runs through Henry the V. These work as one long narrative, and Shakespeare is nearly always on his game.
Still, time has spoken about certain plays for a reason. There’s nothing surprising about my favorite plays by Shakespeare. Perhaps the best surprise for me was too discover how much I loved Macbeth after hating it in high school. I also found Othello improved upon re-reading.
There we go. It was a long project and I’m not entirely sure it was worth it. But I did it, and it is something to be able to say I’ve read them all. I do not, however, advise you to do the same.


Top 10 Celebrity in Australia
As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, here are the names of ten popular celebrities in Australia along with some details about their careers and lifestyles. Please note that rankings and popularity can change over time, and specific details about their personal lives may vary.
- Hugh Jackman :- Hugh Jackman is an Australian actor, singer, and producer known for his roles in films like the “X-Men” series and “The Greatest Showman.” He has a successful career in both Hollywood and Broadway. Jackman is also involved in various philanthropic endeavors and leads an active and health-conscious lifestyle.
Hugh Jackman, born on October 12, 1968, in Sydney, Australia, is an accomplished actor, producer, and singer. Known for his versatility and charismatic performances, Jackman has gained international recognition for his work in both film and theater.
Education and Early Career :- Hugh Jackman graduated from the University of Technology Sydney with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications. He initially pursued a career in journalism before attending the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, where he honed his acting skills.
Theater Career :- Jackman’s career in theater started with various productions in Australia, including performances in “Beauty and the Beast” and “Sunset Boulevard.” He gained critical acclaim for his role as Curly McLain in the stage musical “Oklahoma!” and won a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical in 2004 for his portrayal of Peter Allen in “The Boy from Oz.”
Film Career :- Hugh Jackman’s breakthrough in film came with his role as Wolverine/Logan in the “X-Men” film series, which he played from 2000 to 2017. He became synonymous with the character and earned widespread recognition for his portrayal of the iconic mutant superhero.
Jackman’s filmography includes a diverse range of roles, demonstrating his versatility as an actor. Some notable films in which he has appeared include “Les Misérables,” for which he received an Academy Award nomination, “The Prestige,” “Prisoners,” “The Greatest Showman,” and “Logan.”
Singing Career :- In addition to his acting talents, Hugh Jackman has a strong singing voice. He showcased his singing abilities in several films, including “Les Misérables,” where he sang live on set, and “The Greatest Showman,” where he played the role of P.T. Barnum and delivered a memorable performance.
Personal Life and Philanthropy :- Hugh Jackman is known for his down-to-earth nature, charm, and positive attitude. He is married to Deborra-Lee Furness, an Australian actress, and they have two adopted children. Jackman is an advocate for various charitable causes, particularly in the areas of children’s education and the fight against poverty and disease.
Physical Fitness and Healthy Lifestyle :- Jackman is renowned for his dedication to physical fitness and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. He has often shared workout routines and tips on his social media platforms, inspiring many of his fans to adopt a similar approach to health and fitness.
Overall, Hugh Jackman’s career spans theater, film, and music, and he has become one of Australia’s most beloved and internationally recognized actors. His talent, versatility, and philanthropic efforts have contributed to his enduring popularity and respected status within the entertainment industry.
2. Chris Hemsworth :- Chris Hemsworth is an Australian actor famous for his portrayal of Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He has appeared in several successful films and is known for his athletic physique and dedication to fitness. Hemsworth is also involved in environmental causes and enjoys spending time with his family.
Chris Hemsworth, born on August 11, 1983, in Melbourne, Australia, is a highly regarded actor known for his portrayal of Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. With his striking looks, impressive physique, and acting talent, Hemsworth has become one of Hollywood’s most sought-after leading men.
Early Life and Family :- Chris Hemsworth comes from a family of actors. His mother, Leonie, is an English teacher, and his father, Craig, worked in childcare services. He has two brothers, Luke and Liam Hemsworth, who are also actors. Growing up in Australia, Hemsworth developed a passion for surfing, which he continues to enjoy in his free time.
Breakthrough Role and Marvel Cinematic Universe :- Hemsworth’s breakthrough role came in 2011 when he was cast as the Norse god Thor in the Marvel film “Thor.” He reprised the role in subsequent Marvel films, including “The Avengers” series, “Thor: The Dark World,” “Thor: Ragnarok,” and the “Avengers: Infinity War” and “Avengers: Endgame” films. Hemsworth’s portrayal of Thor has made him a beloved and iconic character in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Other Film Roles :- Aside from his role as Thor, Chris Hemsworth has showcased his acting abilities in a variety of films. Some notable movies in which he has appeared include “Snow White and the Huntsman,” “Rush,” “Blackhat,” “In the Heart of the Sea,” “Ghostbusters,” “Bad Times at the El Royale,” and “Extraction,” among others. His performances have displayed his range as an actor, from action-packed roles to more dramatic and comedic characters.
Personal Life and Philanthropy :- Hemsworth is married to Spanish actress Elsa Pataky, and they have three children together. The family splits their time between Australia and Los Angeles. Hemsworth is known for being down-to-earth and family-oriented, often sharing glimpses of his personal life on social media.
He is also actively involved in philanthropic endeavors. Hemsworth has supported causes such as the Australian Childhood Foundation, the Australian Children’s Music Foundation, and the Australian Cancer Research Foundation. Additionally, he has participated in campaigns to raise awareness about environmental issues, particularly related to the protection of the oceans.
Fitness and Health :- Chris Hemsworth is renowned for his impressive physical fitness and dedication to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. He regularly shares his workouts and training routines on social media, often emphasizing functional fitness and a balanced approach to health. Hemsworth also co-founded the health and fitness app Centr, which provides users with workout programs, meal plans, and mindfulness exercises.
Overall, Chris Hemsworth’s combination of talent, charisma, and dedication to his craft has propelled him to international stardom. He continues to take on diverse roles, showcasing his versatility as an actor and establishing himself as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
3. Margot Robbie :- Margot Robbie is an Australian actress and producer who rose to fame with her role in “The Wolf of Wall Street.” She has since starred in numerous films, including “Suicide Squad” and “I, Tonya.” Robbie is known for her talent and versatility as an actress and has become a prominent figure in Hollywood.
Margot Robbie, born on July 2, 1990, in Dalby, Queensland, Australia, is a highly acclaimed actress and film producer. She has gained recognition for her versatile performances and has become one of Hollywood’s most sought-after talents.
Early Life and Education :- Margot Robbie grew up on a farm in Queensland, Australia. She attended Somerset College on the Gold Coast, where she began acting in school productions. After completing high school, she moved to Melbourne to pursue her acting career.
Breakthrough Roles and Film Career :- Robbie’s breakthrough role came in 2013 when she portrayed Naomi Lapaglia in Martin Scorsese’s “The Wolf of Wall Street.” Her captivating performance alongside Leonardo DiCaprio earned her widespread acclaim and put her in the spotlight.
Since then, Robbie has starred in a variety of successful films, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Some notable movies in which she has appeared include “Focus,” “Suicide Squad,” “I, Tonya,” “Birds of Prey,” “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,” and “Bombshell.” Her performances in “I, Tonya” and “Bombshell” garnered critical acclaim, earning her Academy Award nominations.
In addition to acting, Margot Robbie has ventured into film production through her production company, LuckyChap Entertainment. She has actively participated in bringing diverse and female-centric stories to the screen, including producing films like “I, Tonya” and “Promising Young Woman.”
Personal Life :- Robbie is known for maintaining a private personal life. In 2016, she married British filmmaker Tom Ackerley, and they have worked together on various projects through their production company. Robbie has expressed her love for nature and outdoor activities, and she has a passion for surfing.
Philanthropy :- Margot Robbie is involved in various philanthropic endeavors. She has supported organizations such as UNICEF, Time’s Up, and the Stand Up To Cancer campaign. Robbie has used her platform to raise awareness about important social issues and promote positive change.
Style and Fashion :- Robbie is recognized for her fashion sense and has become a style icon in the industry. Her red carpet appearances often draw attention for her elegant and fashion-forward choices. She has also worked as a brand ambassador for luxury fashion houses, further solidifying her influence in the world of fashion.
Margot Robbie’s talent, beauty, and dedication to her craft have established her as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. Her range as an actress and her commitment to producing meaningful and diverse stories continue to make her a highly sought-after talent in Hollywood.
4. Nicole Kidman :- Nicole Kidman is an Australian-American actress and producer who has received critical acclaim for her performances in films such as “Moulin Rouge!” and “The Hours.” She has won several awards, including an Academy Award. Kidman maintains a private personal life but is known for her elegance and involvement in charitable work.
Nicole Kidman, born on June 20, 1967, in Honolulu, Hawaii, is an award-winning Australian-American actress, producer, and humanitarian. She is known for her versatility and ability to portray complex characters, earning critical acclaim and numerous accolades throughout her career.
Early Life and Education :- Nicole Kidman was born to Australian parents, Antony Kidman and Janelle Ann. Her family moved back to Australia when she was four years old, and she grew up in Sydney. Kidman attended the Victorian College of the Arts in Melbourne, where she studied acting.
Career Beginnings and Breakthrough :- Kidman’s acting career began in the Australian film industry, starring in local productions and television shows. She gained recognition with her breakthrough role in the thriller film “Dead Calm” (1989). Her performance in the film attracted international attention and opened doors for her in Hollywood.
Hollywood Success and Film Career :- Nicole Kidman has established herself as one of Hollywood’s leading actresses. She has appeared in a wide range of films across various genres. Notable movies in which she has starred include “To Die For,” “Moulin Rouge!,” “The Others,” “The Hours” (for which she won an Academy Award for Best Actress), “Cold Mountain,” “Rabbit Hole,” “Lion,” and “Bombshell.”
Kidman’s filmography reflects her commitment to taking on challenging and diverse roles, showcasing her ability to portray complex emotions and characters with depth and nuance. She has worked with esteemed directors and actors, and her performances have garnered critical acclaim.
Television and Recent Projects :- In recent years, Nicole Kidman has ventured into television and streaming platforms. She starred in and produced the HBO series “Big Little Lies,” which received critical acclaim and won several awards. She also appeared in the limited series “The Undoing” and “Nine Perfect Strangers.”
Personal Life and Philanthropy :- Nicole Kidman was previously married to actor Tom Cruise, and they adopted two children together. She is currently married to country singer Keith Urban, and they have two children. Kidman is known for maintaining a private personal life.
Kidman is actively involved in philanthropic work and supports various causes. She serves as a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF, advocating for children’s rights and supporting initiatives related to education and healthcare. She is also involved in organizations that focus on cancer research and women’s issues.
Awards and Recognition :- Throughout her career, Nicole Kidman has received numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, and multiple Golden Globe Awards. She has been recognized for her exceptional acting skills, contributions to the film industry, and her dedication to her craft.
Nicole Kidman’s talent, grace, and ability to take on diverse roles have made her one of the most respected and influential actresses in the industry. Her commitment to her craft, philanthropy, and advocacy work continue to make her a prominent figure in both Hollywood and humanitarian efforts.
5. Cate Blanchett :- Cate Blanchett is an Australian actress and theatre director known for her work in films like “Elizabeth” and “Blue Jasmine.” She has received numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards. Blanchett is known for her intelligence, grace, and commitment to her craft.
Cate Blanchett, born on May 14, 1969, in Melbourne, Australia, is a highly acclaimed actress and theatre director known for her extraordinary talent and versatility. She has received numerous awards and accolades for her performances and is regarded as one of the greatest actors of her generation.
Early Life and Education :- Cate Blanchett was raised in a suburb of Melbourne, Australia. She attended Ivanhoe East Primary School and later Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar School. Blanchett studied economics and fine arts at the University of Melbourne before joining the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) in Sydney, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 1992.
Theater Career :- Blanchett’s career began in the theater, where she gained critical acclaim for her performances in various productions. She worked extensively with the Sydney Theatre Company, where she was both an actress and co-artistic director alongside her husband, Andrew Upton. Blanchett’s notable stage roles include performances in “Oleanna,” “Hedda Gabler,” and “A Streetcar Named Desire.”
Film Career :- Cate Blanchett’s success in the theater transitioned seamlessly into a successful film career. She has delivered remarkable performances in a wide range of genres. Notable films in which she has appeared include “Elizabeth” (for which she received an Academy Award nomination), “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy, “The Aviator” (for which she won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress), “Blue Jasmine” (for which she won an Academy Award for Best Actress), “Carol,” “Notes on a Scandal,” “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” and “Thor: Ragnarok,” among others.
Blanchett’s filmography demonstrates her ability to bring depth and complexity to her characters. She has collaborated with renowned directors and actors, and her performances consistently captivate audiences and critics alike.
Personal Life and Philanthropy :- Cate Blanchett is married to playwright and screenwriter Andrew Upton, and they have four children together. She maintains a private personal life and is known for her commitment to her family.
Blanchett is actively involved in humanitarian and environmental causes. She has served as a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) since 2016, advocating for the rights and well-being of displaced people around the world. She is also involved in initiatives that focus on climate change and environmental conservation.
Awards and Recognition :- Cate Blanchett’s extraordinary talent has been recognized with numerous awards and nominations. She has received two Academy Awards, three Golden Globe Awards, three BAFTA Awards, and numerous other prestigious honors. Her contributions to the arts and her dedication to her craft have solidified her status as one of the most respected and admired actors in the industry.
Cate Blanchett’s talent, intelligence, and commitment to her craft have made her an influential figure in both theater and film. Her captivating performances and her efforts to promote important causes have cemented her as one of the most accomplished and revered actors of her generation.
6. Rebel Wilson :- Rebel Wilson is an Australian actress, comedian, and writer who gained international recognition for her roles in comedies such as “Pitch Perfect” and “Bridesmaids.” Wilson is known for her humor and wit and has also been an advocate for body positivity.
Rebel Wilson, born on March 2, 1980, in Sydney, Australia, is a multi-talented actress, comedian, writer, and producer. She is known for her comedic timing, vibrant personality, and unique comedic style. Wilson has gained international recognition for her performances in both film and television.
Early Life and Education :- Rebel Wilson was raised in the suburbs of Sydney, Australia. She attended Tara Anglican School for Girls and later enrolled at the University of New South Wales, where she studied law and arts. During her time at university, Wilson became involved in acting and comedy, performing in various theatrical productions and joining an improv troupe.
Breakthrough Role and Career :- Rebel Wilson’s breakthrough role came in 2011 when she portrayed the character Fat Amy in the musical comedy film “Pitch Perfect.” Her hilarious and memorable performance earned her critical acclaim and a significant fan following. She reprised the role in the film’s sequels, “Pitch Perfect 2” and “Pitch Perfect 3.”
Following her success in the “Pitch Perfect” franchise, Wilson appeared in a variety of films, showcasing her comedic talent. Some notable movies in which she has starred include “Bridesmaids,” “How to Be Single,” “Isn’t It Romantic,” and “The Hustle.” Wilson has also ventured into dramatic roles, such as in the film “The Brothers Grimsby.”
Television and Production Work :- In addition to her film career, Rebel Wilson has made appearances on television shows. She hosted and executive produced the Australian comedy series “Bogan Pride” and appeared in guest roles on shows like “Rules of Engagement” and “Workaholics.” Wilson has also developed and produced her own projects through her production company, Camp Sugar.
Personal Life and Philanthropy :- Rebel Wilson is known for her bubbly and confident personality. She has been open about her struggles with weight and body image, often using her platform to promote body positivity and self-acceptance. Wilson has been involved in philanthropic work, supporting various charitable causes, including those related to children’s health and education.
Health and Wellness Journey :- In recent years, Wilson embarked on a health and wellness journey, focusing on fitness and improving her overall well-being. She has documented her progress on social media and has inspired many with her dedication to living a healthier lifestyle.
Awards and Recognition :- Rebel Wilson’s comedic talent has earned her numerous awards and nominations. She has received MTV Movie Awards, Teen Choice Awards, and People’s Choice Awards for her performances in the “Pitch Perfect” films. Wilson has also been recognized for her contributions to comedy, receiving honors such as the Glamour Award for Film Actress and the Critics’ Choice Movie Award for Best Actress in a Comedy.
Rebel Wilson’s charisma, comedic skills, and ability to connect with audiences have made her a beloved and respected figure in the entertainment industry. Her diverse range of roles and her dedication to promoting body positivity have cemented her status as a talented and influential performer.
7. Miranda Kerr :- Miranda Kerr is an Australian model known for her work with Victoria’s Secret. She has appeared on the covers of various fashion magazines and has her own skincare line. Kerr is an advocate for wellness and has a focus on holistic living.
Miranda Kerr, born on April 20, 1983, in Sydney, Australia, is a successful Australian model and businesswoman. She has gained international recognition for her work in the fashion industry and is known for her natural beauty and distinctive style.
Early Life and Modeling Career :- Miranda Kerr was discovered at the age of 13 by a modeling agency while participating in a local modeling competition. She began her professional modeling career shortly after, working in Australia and eventually relocating to New York City to pursue international opportunities. Kerr’s breakthrough came in 2007 when she became a Victoria’s Secret Angel, a prestigious role that brought her global fame.
Fashion and Modeling Success :- Miranda Kerr has graced the covers of numerous high-profile fashion magazines, including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Elle. She has walked the runways for renowned fashion designers and brands, such as Chanel, Balenciaga, and Stella McCartney. Kerr has also been the face of advertising campaigns for notable fashion houses, including Prada, Louis Vuitton, and H&M.
KORA Organics :- In addition to her modeling career, Miranda Kerr is an entrepreneur and the founder of KORA Organics, a certified organic skincare line. Inspired by her own healthy lifestyle and love for natural products, Kerr launched the brand in 2009 with a focus on providing clean, environmentally friendly skincare options. KORA Organics has since become a successful and globally recognized beauty brand.
Personal Life :- Miranda Kerr has been in the public eye not only for her modeling career but also for her personal life. She was previously married to actor Orlando Bloom, and they have a son together. Kerr later married Snapchat co-founder and CEO Evan Spiegel, with whom she has two children.
Philanthropy and Advocacy :- Kerr is actively involved in philanthropic work and uses her platform to support various causes. She has worked with organizations such as Children International and has been an advocate for environmental conservation and sustainable living. Kerr’s commitment to promoting wellness and a positive lifestyle is reflected in her work with KORA Organics and her personal life.
Recognition and Influence :- Miranda Kerr’s influence extends beyond the fashion industry. She has been recognized for her contributions to modeling and entrepreneurship, receiving accolades such as the “Model of the Year” award at the 2009 Glamour Awards. Kerr’s success, elegance, and dedication to her brand have made her a respected figure in the fashion and beauty world.
Miranda Kerr’s natural beauty, business acumen, and dedication to promoting wellness and sustainability have solidified her status as a successful model and entrepreneur. Her entrepreneurial ventures, philanthropy, and positive influence continue to shape her career and inspire others.
8. Keith Urban :- Keith Urban is a New Zealand-born Australian country music singer and songwriter. He has achieved significant success in the music industry, with multiple Grammy Awards to his name. Urban is known for his energetic live performances and his marriage to actress Nicole Kidman.
Keith Urban, born on October 26, 1967, in Whangarei, New Zealand, is a highly accomplished Australian-American country music singer, songwriter, and guitarist. He is known for his distinctive voice, heartfelt lyrics, and impressive guitar skills. Urban has achieved worldwide success and has won numerous awards for his contributions to the music industry.
Early Life and Musical Influences :- Keith Urban was raised in Queensland, Australia. He showed an early interest in music and began playing the guitar at a young age. Urban was influenced by various genres of music, including country, rock, and pop. He was particularly inspired by artists like Glen Campbell, Mark Knopfler, and Lindsey Buckingham.
Musical Career and Breakthrough :- Urban’s music career began in Australia, where he released his self-titled debut album in 1991. He gained popularity in his home country with several chart-topping singles. In 1992, Urban relocated to Nashville, Tennessee, the heart of country music, to pursue his dreams of a global career.
In 1999, Urban released his breakthrough American album, “Keith Urban,” which spawned multiple hit singles, including “But for the Grace of God” and “Somebody Like You.” The album’s success propelled Urban to international recognition and established him as a prominent figure in country music.
Subsequent Albums and Hits :- Keith Urban has released numerous successful albums throughout his career. Some notable albums include “Golden Road,” “Be Here,” “Love, Pain & the Whole Crazy Thing,” “Defying Gravity,” “Ripcord,” and “Graffiti U.” He has achieved consistent chart success with singles like “Days Go By,” “You’ll Think of Me,” “Making Memories of Us,” “The Fighter” (featuring Carrie Underwood), and “Blue Ain’t Your Color.”
Urban’s music blends elements of country, rock, pop, and blues, showcasing his versatility as an artist. He is known for his heartfelt and introspective lyrics, often drawing from personal experiences.
Live Performances and Collaborations :- Keith Urban is renowned for his energetic and captivating live performances. He has embarked on several successful concert tours and has performed at major music festivals around the world. Urban is also known for his collaborations with other artists, both within and outside the country music genre. He has collaborated with artists like Eric Church, Miranda Lambert, Pink, and Julia Michaels, among others.
Awards and Achievements :- Keith Urban has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. He has won multiple Grammy Awards, Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards, Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, and Billboard Music Awards. Urban is recognized for his exceptional vocal abilities, instrumental skills, and contributions to country music as a whole.
Personal Life :- Keith Urban is married to Australian actress Nicole Kidman. They have two daughters together. Urban has been open about his past struggles with substance abuse and has spoken about his journey to sobriety. He is actively involved in philanthropic endeavors, supporting causes related to music education, cancer research, and children’s hospitals.
Keith Urban’s talent, passion for music, and genuine connection with his audience have made him a beloved figure in country music. His ability to combine heartfelt lyrics with catchy melodies and his dynamic stage presence continue to captivate fans worldwide.
9. Kylie Minogue :- Kylie Minogue is an Australian singer, songwriter, and actress who rose to fame in the 1980s with hits like “Can’t Get You Out of My Head” and “Spinning Around.” She has had a long and successful music career and is known for her glamorous style and engaging stage presence.
Kylie Minogue, born on May 28, 1968, in Melbourne, Australia, is a globally renowned singer, songwriter, and actress. She is often referred to as the “Princess of Pop” and has had a successful and enduring career spanning several decades. Minogue is known for her catchy pop songs, glamorous style, and ability to reinvent herself as an artist.
Early Life and Career Beginnings :- Kylie Minogue was born into a family with a strong background in the entertainment industry. Her father was an accountant and her mother was a former ballet dancer. Minogue’s interest in music and performing arts was nurtured from a young age.
In 1986, at the age of 18, Kylie Minogue released her debut single, “The Loco-Motion,” a cover of the 1962 hit. The song became a massive success, reaching number one on the Australian charts and staying there for several weeks. It marked the beginning of her musical career and established her as a pop sensation in Australia.
Music Career and International Success :- Following the success of her debut single, Kylie Minogue released her self-titled debut album in 1988, which spawned more hit singles, including “I Should Be So Lucky” and “Got to Be Certain.” These songs helped her gain international recognition and propelled her to the top of the charts in various countries.
Throughout her career, Minogue has released numerous successful albums, including “Fever,” “X,” “Aphrodite,” and “Golden.” She has had a string of hit singles, such as “Can’t Get You Out of My Head,” “Love at First Sight,” “Spinning Around,” and “All the Lovers.” Her music combines catchy pop hooks with elements of dance, disco, and electronic genres.
Reinvention and Iconic Moments :- Kylie Minogue is known for her ability to reinvent herself and stay relevant in the ever-evolving music industry. She has successfully transitioned from her early bubblegum pop image to a more sophisticated and mature artist. Minogue has experimented with different musical styles, collaborated with various artists, and continuously pushed the boundaries of her sound and image.
One of the iconic moments in Minogue’s career was her battle with breast cancer in 2005. Her bravery and resilience during her treatment and recovery endeared her to fans worldwide, and she became an advocate for cancer awareness and fundraising efforts.
Acting and Other Ventures :- In addition to her music career, Kylie Minogue has dabbled in acting. She has appeared in films such as “The Delinquents,” “Moulin Rouge!,” and “Holy Motors.” She has also taken on stage roles in musical theater productions, including “Grease” and “The Vagina Monologues.”
Minogue has explored various business ventures, including perfume and fashion lines. She has collaborated with renowned fashion designers and has been recognized for her impeccable style, often gracing red carpets and fashion magazine covers.
Awards and Recognition :- Kylie Minogue has received numerous awards and accolades throughout her career. She has won multiple Grammy Awards, Brit Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, and ARIA Music Awards. In 2008, she was honored with an Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her services to music.
Personal Life :- Kylie Minogue has maintained a relatively private personal life. She has been in high-profile relationships with several notable figures, including actors Jason Donovan and Olivier Martinez. She has expressed a desire to have a family, but as of now, she remains unmarried and does not have children.
Kylie Minogue’s enduring popularity, versatile talent, and ability to captivate audiences have made her an international pop icon. Her contributions to the music industry, combined with her
10. Russell Crowe :- Russell Crowe is a New Zealand-born Australian actor and film producer known for his powerful performances in films such as “Gladiator” and “A Beautiful Mind.” He has won an Academy Award and has been involved in various philanthropic endeavors. Crowe also has a passion for music and is the lead singer of the band 30 Odd Foot of Grunts.
Russell Crowe, born on April 7, 1964, in Wellington, New Zealand, is a highly acclaimed actor, film producer, and musician. Although born in New Zealand, he is primarily known for his work in Australian and American films. Crowe has received numerous awards and nominations throughout his career and is known for his powerful performances and versatility as an actor.
Early Life and Career Beginnings :- Russell Crowe’s family moved to Australia when he was a young child, and he was raised in Sydney. His interest in acting developed at a young age, and he began performing in school plays and local theater productions. Crowe’s professional acting career took off in the late 1980s when he landed a role in the Australian TV series “Neighbours.”
Breakthrough Roles and International Success :- Russell Crowe gained international recognition with his portrayal of the Roman general Maximus Decimus Meridius in the epic film “Gladiator” (2000). His performance earned him widespread acclaim, including an Academy Award for Best Actor. This role catapulted him to A-list status and established him as one of the leading actors in Hollywood.
Crowe has delivered standout performances in films such as “A Beautiful Mind” (2001), for which he received his second Academy Award nomination, “Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World” (2003), “Cinderella Man” (2005), and “The Insider” (1999). He has showcased his versatility by taking on diverse roles in various genres, including drama, action, and historical films.
Music Career :- In addition to his acting career, Russell Crowe is also a musician and has released several albums. He formed a band called “30 Odd Foot of Grunts” (later renamed “The Ordinary Fear of God”) in the late 1990s. The band released several albums and toured internationally. Crowe has also collaborated with other musicians on various projects.
Other Ventures :- Russell Crowe has ventured into film production and has established his own production company, Fear of God Films. He has produced and been involved in the development of several projects, including films like “The Water Diviner” (2014), in which he also starred.
Personal Life :- Russell Crowe has been in relationships with several high-profile individuals throughout his life. He was married to Australian actress and singer Danielle Spencer, with whom he has two children. They separated in 2012. Crowe is known for his love of sports, particularly rugby, and has been actively involved in supporting various sports teams.
Philanthropy :- Crowe has been involved in philanthropic endeavors over the years. He has donated significant amounts to charities and causes, including organizations focused on cancer research, children’s health, and environmental conservation. In 2003, he auctioned off personal items, including film memorabilia, to raise funds for a wildlife park in Australia.
Awards and Recognitions :- Russell Crowe’s talent and contributions to the film industry have been recognized with numerous awards and nominations. He has received multiple Academy Award nominations and has won an Academy Award for Best Actor. He has also received BAFTA Awards, Golden Globe Awards, and Screen Actors Guild Awards, among others.
Russell Crowe’s commanding presence on screen, dedication to his craft, and ability to portray complex characters have solidified his status as one of the most respected actors in the industry. His versatile performances and commitment to excellence continue to captivate audiences around the world.


A survival horror movie by the name of Bird Box is shaking up the internet locally and globally.
A film led by Sandra Bullock in an attempt to save the ones closest to her will have you standing up in your seat!
About the movie: Bird Box
When a mysterious force decimates the population, only one thing is sure — if you see it, you die. The survivors must now avoid coming face to face with an entity that takes the form of their worst fears. Searching for hope and a new beginning, a woman and her children embark on a dangerous journey through the woods and down a river to find the one place that may offer sanctuary. To make it, they’ll have to cover their eyes from the evil that chases them — and complete the trip blindfolded. Read about #OwnTheBlock – Street Rap, Entertainment


Taika Watiti, known for his work on "Thor: Ragnarok," will direct Apple’s adaptation of Terry Gilliam’s 1981 fantasy television series "Time Bandits," reports Variety.
Apple acquired the rights to the "Time Bandits" series back in the summer of 2018. The original show featured the story of an imaginative 11-year-old boy named Kevin who was sucked into a fantastical adventure with a band of dwarves during the Napoleonic Wars in Italy.
Kevin and the band of dwarves travel through time using a magical map, visiting ancient Greece, the Titanic, and more, all while fighting off an evil being intent on stealing the time travel map.
The original film starred John Cleese, Sean Connery, Shelley Duvall, Kenny Baker, David Warner, Ian Holm, Katherine Helmond, Jim Broadbent, and others.
In addition to "Thor: Ragnarok," Waititi is known for his work on "What We Do in the Shadows" and "Hunt for the Wilderpeople." He is also directing a "What We Do in the Shadows" television series for FX.
This article, "Apple’s Upcoming ‘Time Bandits’ Series to Be Directed by Taika Waititi" first appeared on MacRumors.com
Discuss this article in our forums


‘Cinema Akil in 25hours is more than just a cinema; it’s a vibrant hub where film and culture converge, reflecting the dynamic spirit of Dubai,’ says the poised Boutheina Kazim, as she addresses guests inside the red-lit cocoon that is Cinema Akil in 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central. The partnership has been years in the making, but now, it’s finally here, cementing the collaboration between two of the city’s coolest outposts, and adding to the cultural, artsy and soulful side of Dubai.
Born in 2014 as a nomadic cinema, before opening in Dubai’s Alserkal Avenue, Cinema Akil is the brainchild of Boutheina, bringing arthouse cinema, though-provoking shorts, powerful independent movies and blockbuster favourites to the city. The spirit of old cinema can be felt in its original outpost, with its sumptuous red decor, Rococo wallpaper, along with the spirit of new Dubai and the Arab world – creating a strong sense of community. Across town, 25hours Hotel One Central embodies this same message, with a motto of ‘come as you are’, collaborations, entrenchment in the community, creatives and bringing the spirit of Berlin, Paris or Beirut to Dubai.
Now, visitors – both hotel guests and external visitors – can enjoy the long-awaited partnership coming to fruition, with Cinema Akil in 25hours – a new permanent addition to the hotel’s grounds. The cinema lies just off the entrance in its own little Cinema Akil world, and guests enter into a sultry, red-hued maze of rooms complete with quirky vintage items, vintage movie posters, rocking ‘conversation benches’ and a station serving popcorn and drinks. The cinema seating itself is covered, providing the perfect acoustics, and guests sit on ergonomic, slightly reclined sears – optimised for viewing and in the cinema’s signature bold red.
’25hours was inspired by the idea of the hakawati character, and something very present across the hotel,’ continued Boutheina, in a short movie on the making of the collaboration. ‘The cinema, being independent, but a friendly neighbour, an extension, had to have some sort of relationship to that. So wanted authentic objects that came from a place that had a relationship to the city, its story, its trade relationships and its history, and there was nowhere like India. We worked with an incredible designer to select every single piece, object, figure and poster that would go into those bookshelves – there are over 1,100 pieces.’
Eyes are also instantly drawn to the seating, merging vintage cinematic pieces with contemporary designs and the avant-garde. ‘There are three types of seating,’ explains Boutheina, ‘The first are old cinema chairs we picked up in Italy, the second are the reclining cinema bench-like seats and the third conversation seats – based on the communal component of cinema – called the conversation benches’. These benches feature two rocking chairs with two seats facing the opposite direction so people end up facing each other for a conversation. ‘We loved that idea or creating conversation,’ adds Butheina.
25hours in Cinema Akil also has an eye-catching new logo to match its new era. ‘One thing we’ve always been proud of at Cinema Akil is the presence of Arabic in our logo, it’s not just a translation it’s what we are and what people remember us for – it’s the most visible and loudest component visually,’ says Butheina.
As for the rest of the den, red scaffolding features throughout – a nod to the cinema’s flagship colour – and homage is paid to those who spent the summer building the set up through a thoughtful poster, listing their names like movie directors. The cinema’s theatre has seats for 72 people, and 150 can stand across all three zones – spanning the concession area, theatre itself and chameleon-like retail/pop-up space.
The cinema is open daily from 12pm to 10pm allowing guests to look around, feel the creative spirit and enjoy a conversation chair, while screenings will take place four times a week – Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, between 7:30pm and 8:00pm. The venue is set to remain open until May, with new screenings and a programme of events announced each month.
Kicking things off, the debut screening will be the poignant Darin J Sallam-directed film Farha, telling the story of a young Palestinian girl consumed by catastrophe in the 1948 Nakba, before moving on to stirring documentaries The Black Power Mix Tape, Rolling Like Thunder and Summer of Soul. Adding some festive cheer, the classic Christmas blockbuster Home Alone will be screened on 24, 28 and 31 of December.
25hours Hotel Dubai One Central; cinemaakil.com


The movie Blade Runner takes place in 2019 in Los Angeles, California. A blade runner’s job is to hunt replicants. Blade runners or any officers are not replicants. Replicants are artificial humans that look identical to humans but the only way to tell the difference is a certain test. The Voight-Kampff test will ask replicants a series of questions that don’t quite make sense to you if your not a human. This is a classic “cop tries to get bad guy” movie but with a striking twist that the bad guy is hunting the cop. Not all replicants are bad and most of them are actually used for labor and work. The question is, “Does the cop, Deckard, get the bad-guy replicant or does the bad-guy get the cop?” This is also a movie not just about replicants and humans but about how technology affects everything around us.The actors who played in the movie are Harrison Ford, Sean young, Rutger Hauer, and Edwards James Olmos. They are the main characters and they play the biggest roles in the movie.
On a scale of 1 to 10 it is a 9.5 because it goes so deep into the theme of sci-fi and the future, but they don’t go over the top. The movie was made in 1987, and yet the graphics were incredible. One of the main reason people liked this movie because of how the CGI and graphics affected the whole viewing experience. Harrison Ford did a fantastic job with this movie – he is what made it most enjoyable for me. The company Tyrell designed replicants for many reasons, but the main reason is they were made to be an invisible workforce that couldn’t die out. Thinking that people in 1987 would think of robotic humans was pretty incredible because they weren’t wrong nor were they right. This movie is still one of my favorites and I very much recommend it for people who are into futuristic movies.


Cinema Time is the best movie tracker for iPhone and iPad. Easily and effortlessly you can track your favorite movies and discover new ones.
• Beautiful design, easily view all of the information you need about your favorite movies
• Trakt.tv sync
• View cast and crew information
• Organize your library with lists
• Notifications to remind you when movies release with options to customize
• View stats about your movie watching habits
• Import movies from iTunes, IMDB, TodoMovies, and Trakt
• Backup and export movie information
• Sync movies releases with your calendar
• iMessage app
• Search for movie information via Spotlight
• View upcoming movies
Get the latest news by following Cinema Time on these social media networks.
• Twitter - @Movie_App
• Facebook - facebook.com/TraktYourMovies
To report a bug, ask a question or make a suggestion, please contact me within the app or via one of the above social media networks.


This Grant project was completed in 2021 .We continue to showcase this project’s outcomes on our website because we are proud of the impact it has made and continues to have. While this grant project has been archived, we think you might be interested to read on…
At the CPF, we are acutely aware of the important role information sharing and collaborative discussion has on creating meaningful campaigns for change. Our challenge here was to create the space in which this could take place, and Anemon Productios were intrumental partners in this!
We partnered with Anemon Productions to run the Cinedoc Islands project. A collection of film screenings, followed by discussions, to raise awareness in the local community about environmental issues (such as overfishing) that have a tangible impact on the Cycladic islands.
What does the project deliver in practice?
Local champions were selected to be educators in 5 islands (Antiparos, Amorgos, Sifnos, Milos, Kimolos). Their job was to research how the themes covered by each film could be linked to local conditions, whilst also coordinating the discussions and inspiring further actions.
The public used the collaborative discussions to come up with environmental campaigns and actions on their island, which were based on the themes of the films. These ideas were then evaluated and the best of each island was awarded a ‘best practice’ award from the CPF.
The project offered screenings of the following documentary films, whose trailers you can watch below:
This project has now been scaled up into a CPF-led program, entitled From Movies to Cycladic Movement, which you can read about here. But the schedules of the film screenings can still be viewed here, and the results of the eco-contest are available here.
A bit about the organisation
Anemon Productions began the Cinedoc Cyclades Initiative in 2020, when CPF began funding their project as a Grant. Anemon is a production company dedicated to producing documentaries, educational programmes and cross-media projects as a catalyst for discussion, inspiration and impact.
The company was founded in 2003, in Athens, Greece, bringing together the expertise of Greek filmmakers, producers and media professionals. Special focus is given to projects promoting inter-cultural and historical understanding across Europe, human rights and sustainable living.
Anemon recently produced the documentary Mediterranean: Life Under Siege, which has been screened in the Cyclades, Athens and London, in partnership with the CPF. This landmark project follows a young sperm whale, a monk seal, a loggerhead sea turtle, a family of storks, a sea eagle and an island cat; the protagonists of the film and of the Mediterranean world alike.
“Filmed over the course of two years in 12 different countries and drawing on the expertise of 50 scientists from across the world, this is a documentary saga on a scale never-before-seen that breathes life into the challenges facing an endangered paradise on the brink.” – Anemon Productions.


Steel Your Heart: The Trailer for Nick Cave's New Doco Has Dropped
Nick Cave has posted a trailer for his forthcoming concert film with the Bad Seeds online. One More Time With Feeling is set to be part of a global cinema event on September 8, with the album ‘Skeleton Tree’ set to follow at midnight the day after. You can watch the trailer below:
Directed by Andrew Dominik (Chopper, The Assassination Of Jesse James By The Coward Robert Ford, Killing Them Softly), the film will receive its world premiere at the 2016 Venice Film Festival before being screened in more than 800 cinemas across the globe.
Filmed in both black-and-white and colour, and in both 2D and 3D, Dominik’s film was initially intended to be a performance-based film of the recording of ‘Skeleton Tree’ - but, following the death of Cave’s 15-year-old son Arthur in July 2015, a statement said: “The film evolved into something much more significant, as Dominik delved into the tragic backdrop of the writing and recording of the album".
The film sees interviews with the band accompanied by Cave’s narration and is described as “a true testament to an artist trying to find his way through the darkness".


In the end, even my wife, the actor Akiko Koyama, said that if no one else would do it, then she would be willing. Because sex is a natural human experience, some movie directors opt to include it in their films—unsimulated—for a heightened sense of realism, which means you're looking at real people having real intercourse. The movie premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, but wasn't exactly a critical success. Basically some people say they did, some say they didn't, and no one will ever know the truth. Other fun fact: This comedy is one of the better-known movies of this particular subgenre, and for good reason: The film is essentially about a couple who a attend concerts by aughts bands like Franz Ferdinand and The Dandy Warhols, and b have a ton of sex. The movie was produced by Penthouse Magazine, and featured unsimulated sex scenes that were added post-production much to the chagrin of the director and acted out by "Penthouse Pets. Also, apparently some prosthetic vaginas were floating around set. This film was highly controversial for scenes of vaginal mutilation, but on the other hand Gainsbourg won Best Actress at the Cannes Film Festival. And yes, it features unsimulated sex throughout. The sex is real, which is pretty rare for a mainstream movie that won Best Film at the Berlin Film Festival. It broke alllll kinds of boundaries after all, Sevigny is a household name-level actress , and remains one of the most notable unsimulated moments in film. Unsurprisingly, the film was banned in several countries.


Tom Abrams is an award-winning screenwriter and director whose work has been recognized in both the United States and Europe, including an Academy Award Nomination, an Emmy Award for Animation writing, and prizes at the Berlin, Cannes, Montreal and Karlovy Vary Film Festivals.
As a working member of the Writer’s Guild of America for more than 25 years, Tom’s screenplays include HAVE GUN WILL TRAVEL for Warner Bros., THE CAPTAIN'S WIFE for 20th Century Fox, THE AMERICAN PRINCESS for New Line Cinema, THE BATTLE OF ONO for John Woo and Chow Yun Fat, METAL MACHINE for Universal Pictures, and GAMEBOY CHARLIE for Bruckheimer producer, Chad Oman. His most recent work is as Executive Producer and co-writer on P.O.V., a horror film shot in Ireland, 2016. Tom is also an international film consultant who’s worked in more than 15 countries around the world, including Indonesia, Singapore, South Korea and China. From 1995 – 2005, he was as a founding member of North by Northwest, a celebrated Northern European film development scheme, and from 2005 - 2016 has been the Co-Head of Studies for ScriptEast, an Eastern European development program with 20 produced feature films to their credit.
Tom is a tenured professor in Screenwriting and Film Production at the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts, where he has taught since 1989.


Love Characters and events are important factors in plays as their interactions throughout the plot develop the central ideas or themes that the author wishes to communicate to the audience. Some common themes are investigations into common human experiences that may involve complex moral issues or questions the integrity of relationships. A play which uses characters and events to explore such important themes is Twelfth Night by William Shakespeare.
Background[ edit ] Olivia is a beautiful lady of noble birth who lives in Illyria. Before the play begins, she has recently lost her brother who was her guardian after her father died. This loss has made her grief-stricken and she has refused to see anyone who does not reside in her household, and declared that she will be in mourning for seven years The element itself, till seven years' heat, Shall not behold her face at ample view.
The play begins with the Duke of Illyria, Orsinopining away over his love for Olivia while she refuses to accept him as a suitor.
Sir Andrew has been invited to her household by Sir Toby, and Andrew hopes to use his stay to make Olivia his bride. Malvolio uses his position as steward to gain her affections. Despite all of the rumpus going on at her home, Olivia refuses all visitors until Orsino sends his new page, the protagonist of the play, Violato call on her.
Viola has been recently shipwrecked and she has taken on the disguise of a boy so that she may work for Orsino with no one knowing her true identity. During the shipwreck, Viola was separated from her brother, Sebastianand she believes that he has died.
Cesario also compliments Olivia on her beauty, something that helps heal Olivia's heart from the losses she has recently incurred. Olivia eventually comes to the conclusion that she must marry him. However, in a case of mistaken identity, she marries Viola's twin brother, Sebastian.
All ends well, however, because Sebastian and his sister are extremely similar. The climax of the play takes place at Olivia's estate.
It is here that Olivia and Sebastian are hastily married, Viola and Sebastian rediscover each other, Malvolio is rescued, and Orsino proposes to Viola. InMark Rylance played the role in an all-male production that ran in repertory with Richard III in which Rylance played the title role.Jan 27, · schwenkreis.comh Night has symbolic objects such as clothes, love letters, money, and jewels..
Viola’s boy costume symbolizes her identity change. Viola’s boy costume is her transformation from being an aristocratic woman to being a handsome servant boy named Cesario.
A play which uses characters and events to explore such important themes is Twelfth Night by William Shakespeare.
“Twelfth Night” is a perfect blend of romance and comedy by William Shakespeare. Orsino, the Duke of lllyria, is in love with th. William Shakespeare. Twelfth Night A study showing how Shakespeare's choice of form, structure and language shape meaning by Jenia Geraghty. Twelfth Night: Character Profiles, Free Study Guides and book notes including comprehensive chapter analysis, complete summary analysis, author biography information, character profiles, theme analysis, metaphor analysis, and top ten quotes on classic literature.
The dominant themes Shakespeare introduces in Twelfth Night are love and deception. We will write a custom essay sample on. The tale of a young woman who disguises herself as a man and becomes entangled in the courtship of two local aristocrats upends conventions of romance and gender roles.
First staged in , Twelfth Night is one of Shakespeare’s most performed plays. Read a character analysis of Viola, plot summary, and important quotes. Twelfth Night, in full Twelfth Night; or, What You Will, comedy in five acts by William Shakespeare, written about –02 and printed in the First Folio of from a transcript of an authorial draft or possibly a playbook.
One of the persistent topics of interest in the field of Shakespeare studies is that which considers the various roles that women play in the bard’s comedies and schwenkreis.comry and historical scholars affirm that women did not enjoy political, economic, or social parity with men during Shakespeare’s time and this historical reality is important to keep in .
Shakespeare's Twelfth Night: Disguise, Gender Roles, and Goal Setting fascinating and brilliantly written. In Shakespeare's plays, one notable character wears a literal disguise to accomplish a goal, while others use figurative disguises These ideas are best exemplified in Twelfth Night, written by Shakespeare between and


“What If…” the movie, directed by Dallas Jenkins and starring Kevin Sorbo, Kristy Swanson, Debby Ryan and John Ratzenberger, will be airing on GMC (DIRECTV Channel 338). You can also purchase the DVD online at www.thewhatifmovie.com.
Other Air Times on GMC
Monday, January 31 at 9 pm et
Tuesday, February 1 at 11 pm et
Friday, February 4, at 8 & 10 pm et
Sunday, February 6, at 5 pm et
The film has a powerful cast who effectively portray the message about the decisions we make in life, and the only ones that will matter in eternity:
“What If…” Movie Synopsis:
What if… tells the story of Ben Walker (Kevin Sorbo), who fifteen years ago left his college sweetheart Wendy (Kristy Swanson), and his calling to be a preacher, in order to pursue a business opportunity. Now with a high-paying executive gig, a trophy fiance’, and a new Mercedes, he hasn’t considered a family nor felt the need to set foot in a church.
But God has other plans. While on a thrill ride outside the city, his new car mysteriously breaks down, and he’s visited by a tow truck driver named Mike (John Ratzenberger) who claims to be an angel sent to show Ben what his life would look like had he followed his true calling. Suddenly Ben wakes up in the middle of domestic chaos as his “wife” Wendy and daughters (including Disney Channel’s Debby Ryan) are getting ready for church, where Ben is the new pastor.
Before he can get back to his old life, Ben must first embrace this reality and discover the value of faith and family, and perhaps restore his love for those who were heartbroken fifteen years ago: Wendy…and God. In the tradition of “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “The Family Man,” What If… is a story of finding your true purpose in life.
Watch the trailer for the movie below:
Dallas Jenkins on Filming “What If…”
In this interview with Christian-Movie.com Jenkins talks about filmmaking and lessons he learned while filming “What If…”
“I’ve noticed a new level of enthusiasm from people about the quality of the film compared to previous films, and that’s always nice, but the comments that really stand out are about personal impact. One man pulled me aside and spoke through tears about how the movie touched him because he felt he’d missed his calling years ago, and he realized it wasn’t too late to make a change.”
“…Making this movie has actually changed my life because I’m so much more trusting in God now and working harder to stay out of the way.”
- Dallas Jenkins, director of “What If…” in interview with Christian-Movie.com


Nora and Delia Ephron’s
Love, Loss and What I Wore
The Dark Room
Director: Damian Thorne
Review Date: 24/05/2019
On Friday with my own squad of epic women we took the short stroll from The Brewers Apprentice to the Dark Room to catch this strong yet tender women-centric show. The title gives a decent clue as to what it was themed around, and a cast of strong, well-known local women was a good draw-card.
Beautiful floral artworks by local artist Amey Bell-Booth set a nice backdrop for an otherwise minimalist set. Five women (Gael Haining Ede, Jan Barnett, Trudy Pearson, Rachel Bowen, and Kate Balfour) dressed in black and seated on stools, faced the audience and spoke from the heart about life, and clothes in a series of candid monologues. That might sound a bit materialistic, but it was so much deeper than that. The closet was turned out, and every corner exposed as they each undressed the layers of clothing we hide behind. Comments by our parents that have haunted us for years, the well-meant but horrifying remarks tossed around about how we should look, the dresses worn at special occasions, the black-hole of the purse (handbag), rape and what was worn, the loved and lost clothes, the bad parts of our bodies, it was all there, and on point.
This show modeled excellent writing first and foremost. The script written by sisters Nora and Delia Ephron based on the book by Illene Beckerman was impeccable and all the women I attended with felt that it hit home in a perfectly true way.
Gael Haining Ede and Trudy Pearson produced emotionally vulnerable performances with expert style, and Rachel Bowen and Kate Balfour shared a beautiful and surprising scene about wedding outfits. Newcomer Jan Barnett delivered a challenging script about mini-skirts and her favourite boots.
I’m grateful that director Damian Thorne brought this show to Palmy. It was a lovely experience to share with friends. I’d suggest that you would need to be a particular kind of guy to gain enjoyment from this show. My hubby was going to attend but backed-out when he realised he would be the only man in the oestrogen-rich gang. I would have squirmed in angst if he was there because ninety minutes of deep discussion about women’s body image, clothes, relationships, aging and other stuff would be as overpowering for him as perfume sprayed right into his open eyes.
Lola and Friends ‘Up the Garden Path’
The Globe Theatre
Director: Ian Harman
Review Date: 23rd February 2019
Let me start by saying that I’m a fan of Mr Lola Illusion and have attended at least four of his shows both here in Palmy and in Wellington. I’ve also had the pleasure of attending shows that Ian Harman has directed, or been costume designer for, and his magic touch is evident. For this reason I knew that ‘Up the Garden Path’ was an excellent choice to take my two teenage daughters to, for maximum enjoyment and to foster an enduring love for theatre (which I actually hated before I attended ‘The Glass Menagerie’ in 2016 directed by Ian). I didn’t negotiate about whether they wanted to attend the show, I informed them, and then I made it super cringe for them by constantly reminding them that we were going on a ‘family date night’—haha! Moving on, we got seated and—they turned their phones off!!!!
Ian always knows how to fill a set, he probably has a mathematical rule or something to do with proportions that I’ll never grasp, but somehow even at times when there are minimal items on set he manages to have everything in the right place for the scene. Well this was a lovely whimsical garden scene that didn’t disappoint, complete with paper lanterns, hydrangeas and, in the background, was that a real bird in the theatre or were there bird sounds playing on the sound system? It was the latter, a lovely touch.
The moment Mr Lola Illusion stepped out onto the stage adorned with sequins ( I think or maybe he just naturally sparkles), long stockinged legs and heels, in a green whirlwind of beauty and entertainment and a few cheeky winks, I looked down the row of seats to see my hubby and two daughters beaming. Lola never disappoints.
I had no idea what to expect from this iteration of Mr Lola Illusion, he truly was leading me up the garden path, but because he’s a trustworthy companion I was relaxed about the journey. Here’s what a delighted audience was treated to. Havana Ciggaro seduced us with her cheeky and teasing burlesque, Bronwyn Turei delighted with her heartfelt portrayal of a wedding singer who got dumped by her fiancé while performing—we all wanted to hug her. Cole Hampton as Pamela Hancock from Bulls ‘Auntie Pam’ had us in fits of laughter with her seventies housewife persona, and Amy McKenna gave us goosebumps with her exceptional voice by belting out some big numbers and then doing an intimate original duet with her husband—very romantic. Valerie Bolter performed flamenco and created some audience interaction that was easy and fun to take part in.
Throughout this collection of variety performances the audience was privy to some planned, and some unplanned backstage dramas. To be honest, it was hard to tell which were planned and which weren’t because Lola is an absolute master of the stage and I’m sure he’d keep twirling his tail feather and winking even if the building was falling down around him, and the audience would just naturally trust that everything was carrying-on as planned.
Lola was resplendent in green, just as lovable as Kermit the frog and managed the stage with much the same panache. He is a dancing singing machine and can somehow take the audience from uproarious laughter to heartbreak in the blink of an eye. After being attacked by a swarm of bees—seriously how did he make a basket of cut up bits of paper come to life into a swarm of bees? I told you he’s magic—he hilariously returned covered in band-aids and sang a sombre heartbreak piece called ‘Black Tears’ which had everyone awwing in sympathy. Mr Lola Illusion is such a kind soul that he wipes away his tears, gives a happy wink and moves back towards the light.
Some standout moments were Pamela Hancock’s blooming entry as a flower (wow) and Bronwyn Turei’s drunken heartbroken wedding singer act as she belted out Alanis Morissette’s ‘You Oughta Know’. Mr Lola Illusion’s attempts to drag the spotlight from Havana Ciggaro when he joined her uninvited on the stage complete with tail feathers and stolen dance moves was also a highlight. I’m surprised he didn’t get a ‘heyyyyy-ya’ style karate chop reminiscent of Miss Piggy from Havana Ciggaro.
Lola ended the show by letting the audience know that he would be doing a new show every month for the next three months. You can’t see this show again, but the next show will be seance themed and obviously worth seeing. My girls were delighted and both asked if we could attend the next show—obviously ‘yes’ is the answer. Keep an eye out for the next one and book tickets early as this show sold out.
Hudson & Halls Live!
by Kip Chapman with Todd Emerson & Sophie Roberts
Director: Dan Pengelly
Review Date: 15/11/2018
I’ve got an identity crisis! How do you describe the feeling of being behind the scenes, part of the show, and part of the audience? The hubby and I were fortunate to have front row seats at Centrepoint Theatres Christmas production ‘Hudson and Halls Live’ and we got to play all those parts.
If you’re my age (I’m not telling but heading towards vintage and probably more in a cheese way than a wine way) or older you will likely remember the outrageous cooking show ‘Hudson and Halls’ that graced our TV screens from the mid 70’s to the mid 80’s. I was too young at the time to think anything other than that they were pretty funny guys who didn’t act the way that other TV cooking shows did with all their wild and chaotic tiffs and shenanigans occurring in front of the camera. It was quite a move away from the staid, one dimensional shows that we were used to. These guys were fabulous, and in a time when it was still illegal in New Zealand to be gay their relationship was the worst kept secret, and we were loving it!
So, this nostalgic show is incredibly clever. It’s so clever it makes my brain hurt thinking about it, and I’m slotting myself into a category of people that will never be clever enough to pull something like this off. It’s a cooking show, it’s a show about creating live TV and managing a live audience, it’s a show about Hudson and Halls, it’s a show that revives the 80’s, it’s a feast of experiences and a recipe for disaster!
Centrepoint general manager Kate Louise Elliot is generally great at managing her role as floor manager Ngaire Watkins who managed all of us audience members who were also part of the ‘live studio audience’ in the show (see it’s clever eh?). This is a huge role and I think the show would be severely affected without her expert management of everything! She was annoying, and funny and bold and I’d like to hug her and then run away because she also kind of scared me.
I want to thank Andrew Laing’s teeth for their role in holding back everything that his character Peter Hudson wanted to say and smiling through it all. Every time I think about that plastered on ‘smile for the TV’ I have a little giggle. Peter Hambleton’s character David Halls was a lot more big hair, big hand movements, and amped up fabulousness. He paired so well with Andrew Laing and honestly I was just sitting there watching all the drama unfold like it was real life—which it actually was. Their roles required a high amount of energy and throughout it all they were cooking a Xmas feast with all the trimmings. These guys were so pro I just basically believed I was watching Hudson and Halls—the originals.
I was fortunate to be there for the Wednesday night Q&A session (which I highly recommend if you get the opportunity) so I got some insight into the preparations for this show. There was a lot of set-up required with all the cooking involved and Henrique Beirao crossed the boundaries between behind the scenes operator and becoming a technical operator on the set of ‘Hudson and Halls Live’. He was a busy guy but played an enjoyable part amongst all the drama.
Overall, I would say that director Dan Pengelly has succeeded again in cooking-up an excellent show using seasoned professionals to make an awful meal that is definitely not the star of the show. I’m hungry for more. Go gorge yourself on the gorgeousness.
P.S I can’t say how this would play out if you have never seen the original TV show because I have, and I can’t undo that. If I had to guess I’d say that it would still be a good fun show, but you may just miss a few layers…
At the Q & A session Andrew Laing pointed those who hadn't heard of Hudson and Halls to this documentary about them which is very insightful.
Review date: 11/10/2018
I know Amy, the writer, director and performer of this play about menstruation. We’ve been in a writer’s group together and she pops up all over the place in different creative roles. Despite this, I felt like her show Period. was going to be bloody disgusting and very awkward. The marketing material was enough to make even the most experienced bleeders look twice in shock. Wow, I was exhausted that night and I hoped I wouldn’t have to sit there for too long because I was worried I might fall asleep.
I should have had more faith in Amy because she revealed an incredible depth of skill in her ‘World Premiere’ of this show. It was bloody fantastic! Amy played Karla, an innocent eleven-year-old girl coming to terms with getting her period for the first time. Karla’s role is all mimed. That might sound boring, but Amy actually made me realise how much lazier an actor could be when they rely on dialogue to act out their role. Her expressions and character were absolutely delightful, perfectly capturing the innocence and confusion of a child discovering new things. Karla’s mother is all dialogue and no acting—this role is voiced by Amy too. Karla’s mother—delivered like an omniscient being from the sound system—talks Karla through the changes her body is experiencing. There are some hilarious, and some very touching moments. It was heartening to hear so many males in the crowd laughing uproariously, I thought they were brave to even come along but after seeing the show it is obvious that you don't need to have ovaries to enjoy the show.
There were a plethora of great props which I am not going to go into detail about here because some things just have to remain a surprise and my descriptions will not do them the justice they deserve. There’s some excellent skills displayed with puppetry too, and if Amy created all those things she deserves a bloody award. What surprised me the most was how ‘not gross’ it was. Her particular mixture of child-like curiosity, play, and honesty dealt with what is usually a hidden and taboo subject in a very tidy way. I didn’t leave feeling dirty and horrified, I left feeling so astonished and happy at what a fun show I had just seen. I personally think this show should travel round the country being shown at schools because it is a brilliant, funny, non-awkward way to talk about a bloody annoying topic.
I think Amy might have worked long and hard on this project. She seems to have thought of every little detail. Her acting skills were exceptional and her connection with the audience incredibly natural and relaxed. You could say it simply flowed beautifully. I’d like to take my daughters to it but its short run here is already finished. We can only hope it comes back for a second showing, maybe on a monthly cycle....
This was top notch. I’m proud to have been at the ‘World Premiere’ of Amy Atkins’ Period.
Director: Jenna Kelly
There will be those of you out there that think that theatre going is ‘not your thing’, that it is ‘stuffy’ and ‘boring’ and you’d rather go to a movie or off to the pub. You’re wrong. It’s a brave act to step into a theatre and have a story acted out at you. You can’t close the book and walk away for a while—you’re there without seat belts and with no idea what kind of terrain you’re about to encounter. In a small theatre like The Darkroom in Palmerston North you might not expect to see anything exceptional—you’re wrong again.
Last night I took my teenage daughter to see Jenna Kelly’s version of Maya Levy’s Daughters. I’ll never forget it. I feel emotional trying to write this review and I want to find a way to implore you to go and see it without sounding like I’m trying to make a sales pitch or am getting royalties from ticket sales(I’m not). I don’t want to give much away either which limits what I can say…
Basically, Jenna has cast nine males to deliver the monologues of what were originally written as teenage girls’ narratives. Each monologue offers a glimpse inside the life of a teenager and covers topics such as gender norms, sexuality, social problems, drugs and so on. What stands out in these narratives is that even though they are being delivered by an all-male cast, there is almost no denying that they are all female voices. Imagine the ghost of a teenage girl wearing the flesh of a teenage boy. It is hauntingly beautiful.
I want to commend the whole cast for an excellent job but there were two stand-out acts for me. Callum Goacher brought tears to my eyes by showing powerful vulnerability in silent moments, and Léon Bristow hollowed out my chest and chucked my heart in my hands as a take home gift from his 18th birthday party. I’ve repeated a summary of Léon’s monologue to my family a few times now and have yet to manage it with dry eyes.
As this is a monologue driven show the use of props is at a bare minimum but when they are used they are powerful – never more so than in Léon’s act ‘Gift’.
While this show is at times traumatic it is also cleverly and tenderly delivered offering relief with some lighter and relatable content. There are laugh out loud moments and profound silences—just like real life. I’ll never forget this show.
When I got home my husband was watching the end of a sci-fi movie. I couldn’t help but notice how the actors were substandard compared with what I’d just experienced at the Darkroom. With all the movie’s special effects and ‘stars’ there was nothing but artificial emotion and a tired and clichéd story line. I got up and did the groceries on my iPad while it finished…
Lola’s Grave Mistake
Director: Ian Harman
I’ve had the pleasure of seeing Mr Lola Illusion (Ian Harman) perform in ‘The Lola Show’ at the Wellington Fringe Festival in 2017 and as MC at the ten-year celebration performance of his popular burlesque show at Centrepoint Theatre ‘Tease-o-rama’, and I did wonder if ‘Lola’s Grave Mistake’ could offer more. It does.
Grab your sombrero and enter the sombre darkness, and burning pain, of a broken heart. You may find yourself in something resembling hell in The Darkroom, but with Mr Lola Illusion taking centre stage, even the hellishness of a broken heart looks hot in heels.
If you want to practise some facial exercises, then simply being in the audience will give you a great session of facial rejuvenation. I smiled, laughed and sighed deeply as Lola took me on a journey from intoxicating joy to heartache, and back again, during his short but sweet one-hour extravaganza. The art and magic of story-telling is alive in every cell of Lola’s vibrant body and soul. Somehow, he smiles with his whole body and wears sadness like a bodysuit of rocks.
Shaking his tail feathers, Mr Lola illusion takes us on a whirlwind ride to hell and back. There’s a real beauty in the honesty, naivety, and vulnerability that Lola expresses in the—at times—heart-breaking narrative that runs through the show, of which perfect performance by Ian Harman kept the audience engaged and vocally supportive. Though matters of the heart are a serious subject, Lola creates a redemption-song, Mexican-cabaret, drama/comedy genre which is as lively as the fast-beating heart of a drunk person running in heels (while singing). Cleverly placed subtle and some not-so-subtle innuendo was delivered with a wink and a cheeky smile and received with noisy, happy laughter.
There was an ever-so enticing cameo by the always delightful Sam Lyons aka ‘Costa DeMillion’ of The Boom, Boom Room Burlesque fame, and the unmistakable voice of local singing legend Amy McKenna was detected in a remixed version of ‘Jolene’.
Great musical numbers belted out without restraint (and sometimes while running) were well chosen and performed to wonderful effect. Sometimes when I’m watching shows with a few musical numbers I groan and think ‘oh no, not another one’, but this was not one of those times—Ian Harman has cleverly re-worked and created songs to tell his story in a most enchanting way.
Being a master of set, direction, and costuming (among many other things) Harman has everything well planned out and running seamlessly (although any show I ever created would never feature me running, let alone in heels). As usual for a show with his artistic hands all over it, the set and props seem to just magically appear and disappear out of nowhere. Telephone scenes that weave their way through the show were perfectly executed and an absolute crowd pleaser. Mr Lola Illusion is so generous to the audience that he even handed out popcorn to be devoured during the most dramatic parts of his act.
Lola’s Grave Mistake is a performance about love and loss that we can all relate to, and I am always grateful to those who are brave enough to share their stories with such honesty. Mr Lola Illusion showed us his heart—it’s beautiful.
Director: Dan Pengelly
I’m always excited to go to Centrepoint Theatre to enjoy one of their consistently good shows, and who doesn’t love a bit of Peter Pan? It was only as I approached the doors at the earlier than usual show time of 6:30pm that I realised that something was wrong. An early start time, school holidays and a children’s fairy tale all added up to one thing—there was going to be children there… I inwardly groaned at the inconvenience this would put upon me. It was an unusual experience to share this usually adult occupied space with kids, but I showed diplomacy and grinned and bared it. At half time I started texting friends with strong recommendations that they bring their kids to see Peter Pan, and felt a slight though quickly stifled pang of sadness that my children were grown-up.
The set didn’t give much away, looking sort of like an after-school kids club with a climbing frame of sorts and a tumbling mat. Cushions scattered at the foot of the front row seats gave kids the opportunity to be up close and personal. The cast really poured some magic out on that set. I had wondered how they were going to manage things like flying, I couldn't see any sky-hooks, but I needn’t have worried. I felt incredible joy watching an excellent cast of multi-taskers show just what you can do with some imaginative play and a few basic props. Audience interaction and a really quick-witted, enjoyable script kept both young and old laughing like children. Excellent timing and well-planned costume changes meant that among a whirlwind of activity the ‘Lost Boys’ were magically transformed into pirates and back again. Some actors manifested as at least four different characters in a cleverly seamless way.
Wendy played by Katie Atkins navigated the space between child and mother-figure with grace and charm. Tinkerbelle played by Ryan Ngarimu was delightful proving that star-quality acting is more than just having lots of lines. Captain Hook brought to life by David Fane (Bro Town and Sione’s Wedding) chartered a course between bad guy and lovable rogue that was pitched perfectly for children’s enjoyment. Mr & Mrs Darling were performed by the perfect package of Lizzie Tollemache and David Ladderman. The dynamic duo shone in their variety of roles showing their depth of talent and craft. I’d like to congratulate the whole cast and crew for this outstanding performance because they were all fantastic (it’s a long list). Director Dan Pengelly and the Centrepoint Theatre basement company have hit the perfect note on this family themed, pantomime-like, fairy-tale performance. Acting and imagination combine to remind us of the joy and simplicity of child’s play.
School holidays offer the perfect time to kick start your kid’s imagination on a show like this. In a world of special effects, iPads and blockbuster movies this pared back thrill of the imagination will lull children back to the charms of imaginative play. Why bother with props like a bed being wheeled on-stage when you could simply drape a white sheet over the backs of a few of the cast? This show was charming and refreshing in in its approach. I would happily attend a second time. Children eight and over will enjoy this Centrepoint production immensely, and adults will be wooed by Peter Pans invitation to never grow up.
Howard Ashman and Alan Menken's
Little Shop of Horrors
Abbey Musical Theatre
Wallace Development Auditorium
Director: Teesh Szabo
Review Date: 27/05/2015
I remember watching the movie version of Little Shop of Horrors and being blown away with what a crazy, spoof, sci-fi horror it was. The dentist and the plant ‘Audrey II’ were the main elements that stuck in my mind for terrifying reasons. It won’t matter if you haven’t seen the movie, you’ll still enjoy this excellent musical and it’s quite likely that you will never forget the dentist or ‘Audrey II’.
With an up-beat soundtrack and a lively cast you will not find yourself shifting uncomfortably in your seat or checking your watch. I found the characters in this show to be incredibly endearing with some really strong performances standing out from the crowd. Jessie Feyen’s role as ‘girl from the wrong side of town’, Audrey, was exceptional. Her accent was breath-taking and her characterisation impressive. It wasn’t just Seymour that fell in love with Audrey, we all did. Tyrell Beck as nerdy Seymour continued his run of strong roles with Abbey Theatre. Hopelessly in love with co-worker Audrey, Seymour had us all rooting for him to get his girl. Flower shop owner and Seymour and Audrey's boss 'Mushnik' was played with flair by Don MacBeth.
Larger than life Damian Thorne played many roles—I don’t know how he got changed so quickly but he could teach my daughters a thing or two about getting ready to go out faster! His main role as psychopathic dentist Orin is outrageously good, wow! At times eclipsing the plant (which had its own ‘growing’ role) Damian brought all our nightmares of dentistry to life in hysterical over-the-top style. He brought agility and energy in bucket loads—I challenge you to watch his role without laughing. I honestly can’t imagine how the dentist could have been better depicted.
A trio of chorus characters brought some excellent harmonies together, and kept the upbeat, lively tempo rolling. Erica Ward had a brief cameo and delivered beautiful and powerful song.
The set was well used, flowing seamlessly and lighting was used to its best advantage to create a really enjoyable scene.
Audrey II was more than a one person job (played by duo Nate Davis and Jacob McDonald) and every stage of its life was incredibly well delivered. I’m surprised at how quickly I forgot that it was a puppet and bought into it as a character – a sinister character.
The final scenes drew me back to haunting memories of watching ‘The Night of the Triffids’ while I was too young, with an excellent combo of costume, and lights creating an eerie yet comical scene.
I’ve not had the privilege of seeing a show directed by Teesh Szabo before, and I was impressed at how tightly she'd pulled everything together. The combination of great set work, lighting, choreography, costume, props, and acting created a thoroughly enjoyable show that was a pleasure to see.
That Bloody Woman
By Luke Di Somma and Gregory Cooper
Directed by Lyndee-Jane Rutherford
A chance to honour Kate Sheppard for giving us the vote as well as getting entertained and educated made me feel ‘bloody’ excited to attend That Bloody Woman. With lead character (obviously Kate) being brought to life by award-winning actress Lisa Chappell (Gloss, McLeod’s Daughters and lots and lots more stuff, a whole career’s worth...) who I used to sport a poster of on my wall from her high-fashion Gloss days, this show had great pulling power.
I rocked up with my hubby (what a good and brave guy) to what was likely to be a high-oestrogen storm of hyped-up women. To be fair, the audience seemed well balanced gender-wise which was pleasing.
If you’re turned off by musicals keep in mind that this is a feminist, punk musical, and plays out a bit like being in a mosh pit at a Jacinda Ardern/Amy Winehouse/Madonna gig. The setting is punk with concrete walls, spray paint and a nod to the past with a heritage-style arch centre stage. The opening scene is a strong start and I’m not giving away any spoilers but depending on your inclinations you’ll either be shocked or jubilant with joy (me) at the first word out of Lisa Chappell’s mouth. Lisa, is an absolute legend as Kate Sheppard. Spending almost the entire performance on stage and belting out a heavy load of songs, Lisa carried the show with both strength and tenderness. Gathering the audience in to her flock and guiding us through Kate’s trials and tribulations as she fought to get the vote—Lisa had us all eating out of her hand.
A strong ensemble team of punk-styled women had Lisa’s back as they powered through what was a riveting history lesson and revival of a New Zealand hero. Ensemble member Indiya Henman’s snappy dance moves and strong, engaging acting were delightful. Leona Revell’s supporting act as Kate Sheppard’s best friend featured some excellent vocal performances and Trudy Pearson’s role as the vicar presiding over Kate Sheppard’s wedding was a delightful crowd-pleaser.
It wasn’t an all woman cast though with Jeff Kingsford-Brown playing a massively pleasing role as King ‘Dick’—Richard Seddon. As Kate’s nemesis Kingsford-Brown produced an excellent performance with great chemistry. Gary Clark and Steve Jenkins both got to be up close and personal with Lisa Chappell and fulfilled their small male-speaking parts well (Lol, I jest but really it is a small satisfaction to see men play second-fiddle to the women for a bit).
The on-stage band lead by Kane Parsons was part of the show and seamlessly fitted into the action. They did an excellent job of keeping the musical score flowing faultlessly (or covering up any errors well because I didn’t notice any).
Costuming by Hayley Douglas was superb, especially Lisa Chappell’s almost steam-punk styled outfit which masterfully combined pants and a long dress and evoked a glam/punk Queen look.
I was surprised to find that two guys created this show – Luke Di Somma and Gregory Cooper, and I bloody salute them. It goes a long way towards paying homage to a hero who perhaps never received the hero-worshipping she deserved in her own life-time. With Lisa Chappell breathing new life into a modern Kate, and a strong cast backing her I felt that as a crowd we gave her the screaming, cheering, wild-clapping thanks she deserved. A standing ovation from the audience was a beautiful thing to see. Thank you Centrepoint Theatre and the cast and crew of That Bloody Woman—you were ‘bloody’ terrific.
Director: Scott Andrew
Manawatu Theatre Society
Before you read this review there is something important to know: my daughter plays a main role and I am going to say she’s amazing because she really is. This affects my credibility, I have none, I shouldn’t really be doing this—but I am.
For a change I didn’t attend opening night for this show—here’s why. There are two girls sharing the role of ‘Iris’, one of them is my daughter Faith Offord and the other is Jenna Shapleski on alternating nights. Opening night was Jenna’s night and the Mum in me took precedence over the reviewer in me—I wanted to see Faith’s portrayal first. I look forward to attending a showing soon where Jenna is playing the role of Iris. With a team of family and friends it was a wonderful party of supporters to turn up at The Globe with to see our wee star shine.
A simple set awash with blue light greeted us and evoked the blue glare that shines out from our computer screens. The Nether’s opening scene is set in an interrogation room where Mr Sims (Glen Eustace) is being interrogated by Morris (Hannah Pratt). The rest of the show jumps between the interrogation room, in real life, and ‘The Hideaway’ in The Nether. Hold onto your seats, this show blurs the lines between fantasy and real-life. Hannah Pratt’s portrayal of Morris was strong and took us on a journey of emotion—is she the good-guy or the bad-guy? Similarly Mr Sims traversed a line between good and bad—but is he on the bad side of good or on the good side of bad? Glen Eustace kept us guessing as he toyed with not just our emotions but with those of Doyle (Danny Goodman), Iris (Faith Offord/Jenna Shapleski) and Mr Woodnut (Michael Salmon).
It’s an eerie moment when a young Iris enters ‘the hideaway’ looking like a porcelain doll but acting in ways that are alarming for a young girl. The relationships depicted between Iris and Papa, and Iris and Mr Woodnut are unusual and unsettling. Director Scott Andrews has been careful with the management of these relationships and navigates the space well. Faith Offord (MY DAUGHTER!!!!) played a touching role as Iris. She was tender, articulate and a master of technique—just saying. The trust and connection on stage between Michael Salmon (who managed his difficult role with delicacy) and Faith Offord was evident as was the relationship between Glen Eustace and Faith. This extended the audience a comfortable space to connect with the content. Danny Goodman’s performance was exceptional and it’s hard to say much more without bringing spoilers into play.
There’s a lot of dialogue in this production but the subject material —how much we know about who and what we’re dealing with on the internet and who’s policing it—is riveting. It plays out like a bit of a ‘who dunnit’ but also challenges our perceptions of reality, and right and wrong.
The set was well used throughout the show despite its minimal presentation it somehow was very easily transformed from scene to scene. Live music added to the eerie scenario at the hands of Elijah Graham. In fact a light touch of everything: set, music and lighting really threw emphasis onto the story and the actors who carried the weight of delivering an intricate narrative well.
This is the first time that award-winning The Nether has been shown in New Zealand and it certainly has a lot to say. This production was tight—nothing was over or under done—it struck exactly the right note.
I talk and think a lot, here I share the love and the words and the thoughts. Take it or leave it...