Slipping into spring in my stylish mahabis If you spend a lot of time working from home like me, a good pair of slippers is essential. Slippers that feel good tend to be a little more expensive and properly structured with a good footbed. I’m a big fan of natural fibres and my need to […]
Jenůfa – English National Opera
Psychological Turmoil with a Powerful Ending David Alden’s production of Jenůfa, first shown at ENO in 2006 and revived in 2016 takes the work from its original village setting to a remote industrial estate at some point in the twentieth century, with Števa (John Findon) an Elvis like character complete with bleached blond hair, leather-jacket […]
Capilungo – Covent Garden
A little corner of Lecce in Covent Garden Italy’s culinary landscape is incredibly diverse, with each region boasting unique ingredients, dishes, and cooking techniques. From the hearty pasta dishes of the north to the seafood-focused cuisine of the south, each region offers a distinct culinary experience. As one Italian told me, you will find every […]
Swan Lake – Royal Ballet at ROH
Revival of Liam Scarlett’s Swan Lake at The Royal Opera House. Liam Scarlett’s 2018 production of Swan Lake for the Royal Ballet, with glorious sets designed by John McFarlane, is a sumptuous show which has won many accolades. Now on its third revival, this fairytale ballet has its roots in German and Russian folklore. With […]
The Flying Dutchman – Royal Opera House
This Dutchman Flies High It took me until I was in my 30s to brave a Wagner opera. Not The Flying Dutchman but Die Meistersinger von Nuernberg. Why? well, partly because many Wagner operas are long – but mostly because I’d been advised that I wouldn’t like them. The advice I was given is a […]
Kachori x Paladar Supperclub Collaboration
India meets Latin America in Elephant & Castle with an evening of cross-cultural gastronomy and bonhomie. When Kachori Indian Restaurant first opened on my doorstep I was thrilled. A modern Indian restaurant to showcase the food of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Punjab – including influences drawn from the regional communities of Marwari, Jains, Raiputs […]
11 Cadogan Gardens, Chelsea Townhouse Hotel
An arty staycation in Chelsea What’s your idea of the perfect city break? For me, a boutique hotel with charm is a must. Some kind of cultural diversion is also mandatory. Good local shopping of course – and great food both in the hotel and in the surrounding area. 11 Cadogan Gardens ticks every box […]
Bistro Bleu – Sunday Roast
A classic roast at an excellent price. Who doesn’t love a good Sunday roast? I’m a huge fan of those lazy Sunday afternoon events with friends. Of course, a homecooked lunch is always good – but sometimes it’s nice to have lunch where no one has to co-ordinate roast potatoes, Yorkshire pud and roast meat […]
Dear Octopus – National Theatre
Meet the Randolphs… Premiered in 1938, ‘Dear Octopus’ covers a weekend in the lives of the Randolph family, gathered for a golden wedding anniversary. It’s a poignant comedy that explores the dynamics of a large eccentric English family. The title is a quote from the opening address at the golden wedding dinner by Nicholas, the […]
Dark with Excessive Bright – Royal Ballet Festival of New Choreography
Promenade through Dance at the Linbury Be prepared when you arrive at the Linbury Theatre for Robert Binet’s ‘Dark with Excessive Bright’. You’ll be leaving your coat and bag in the cloakroom and you’ll be provided with a luminous wristband. The stunning theatre has been transformed into an immersive space by Shizuka Hariu, with benches, […]