ESEA issues, LGBT issues, entertainment, culture and everything in between
After months of having to wait to watch the West End revival of one of my favourite musical films “Hairspray” (which I unfortunately didn’t), I finally got to see it on tour at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens. But did it live up to my high expectations? Read my review to find out.
“Wicked” is one of the highest-grossing musicals of all time and celebrates the end of its 15th year at London’s West End and there’s undoubted reason why this progressive tale of friendship, love, diversity and overcoming adversity is continues to bring in the green. Read my review of this bewitching show here.
Its inception may have divided diehard Harry Potter fans, but there’s no denying the success of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child”. Despite a slightly convoluted plot and unconvincing villain, it is worth sitting through more than four hours just to witness some spellbinding theatrical magic, relive the nostalgia of the Wizarding World and be taken on an extended journey with both familiar and new characters.
The nation’s favourite book (as voted for in 2019), “The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe” is brought back to life in theatres with this weird and wonderful touring production. But how does this epic tale of adventure and magic translate to the stage? Read my review of it from The Lowry, Salford, here.
There are countless Christmas films to choose from to watch, not all great but mostly cute and festive at least. But Christmas films with LGBTQ or diverse casts are very far and few between. Here are 12 films that tick those boxes I recommend looking up if you want some new suggestions.
Anti-Bullying and Trans Awareness Week are important dates that prompt important learning and discussion in the Early Years. Here are 10 books to supplement EYFS education and literacy skills that teach young children about diversity, inclusion, acceptance, feelings, and the difference between right and wrong.
“Frozen”, Disney’s highest-grossing animated film (before its sequel came out) and arguably the most popular of the 21st Century, is now a musical that has finally arrived in London’s West End! But how does it translate to the stage and compare to the film? Find out in my review here.
“Eternals”, the third Marvel film out this year and the most pivotal in introducing us to Phase Four of the MCU is now out. How will this film centring around a group of super-powered celestial “saviours” as they battle to save Earth fair compared to the might Avengers? Read my review here.
“Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” is another great Marvel film and one that really aims to and succeeds in boosting Chinese representation in a Hollywood film. These “Ten Rings” of representation talk through the different ways in which it helps to combat the under-representation and negative light in which many Chinese and East Asian characters are portrayed on screen.
“Danny Chung Does NOT Do Maths” is the debut novel by ESEA author Maisie Chan. Danny Chung has a lot to deal with, including school bullies, fighting racial stereotypes, annoying family “friends”, and most of all, looking after his Chinese granny. How will he cope? A lovely story about being who you want to be, self discovery, and the importance of intergenerational relationships – even if you don’t speak the same language…
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