New competitive social experience launches in Holborn : Escape Arcade

28 October 2024 Shana Leave a comment

A brand-new competitive social experience has just launched in Holborn, London. The Escape Arcade features 30 distinct micro-challenges, blending the immersive visuals of escape rooms with the replayability and variety of an arcade.

Unforgettable adventure

Founded by the renowned escape room company Enigma Quests, the Escape Arcade is set in a sinister underground laboratory. Each door transports players to mysterious rooms, ranging from real-world locations to fantastical realms. Environments include a high-speed train, a spooky forest, a retro dance floor, a child’s bedroom, Area 51, and more.

Photos : Enigmaquests/London/DR

Challenging and fun mini-games

Located on Fetter Lane, the venue is filled with stimulating mini-games that test physical and mental skills, creativity, and teamwork. Participants can play and replay as many games as they can within an hour. Leaderboards for each game allow players to compete with friends, family, colleagues, or the public.

Unique social experience

Nargiza, co-founder of Enigma Quests, stated : “Escape Arcade offers players the chance to break free from their daily routine and enter a world of fantasy and excitement. We’ve made our love for escape rooms more accessible to a wider audience with a variety of mini-games, ensuring there’s something for everyone. We can’t wait for people to discover what’s behind each closed door!”

Photos : Enigmaquests/London/DR

Additional features

The Escape Arcade also boasts a themed bar serving custom cocktails and snacks. Larger groups can order food from local restaurants. Upon entry, players receive RFID bracelets that connect to the games, allowing participants to track scores using custom-developed software. Games are designed for up to four players, with some playable solo, and each lasting about five minutes.

Practical information

The venue spans two floors, with a 3,000-square-foot ground floor leading to an 11,000-square-foot basement housing the Escape Arcade. It is open seven days a week, from 11 AM to 9 PM Monday to Friday, and from 10 AM to 10 PM on weekends. Tickets cost £25 per person for 60 minutes of play and are suitable for children aged 8 and up.

Enigma quests’ legacy

Enigma Quests, the creator of the Escape Arcade, was one of the first escape room companies in the UK, opening its first site in Shoreditch in 2015. Founders Nargiza Murodova and Dmitri Chihaiglo recognized the potential of these interactive games for families, friends, and colleagues. Each room and game they create undergoes a rigorous design and testing process to ensure the perfect level of challenge for players. Later this year, Enigma Quests will launch new escape rooms in the same building as the Escape Arcade. More details will be announced soon.

Photos : enigmaquests/London/DR

In brief :
Escape Arcade, 86 Fetter Ln, London EC4A 1EQ, enigmaquests.london

NEWS, SPORT

Mohamed Salah saves Liverpool in thrilling finish against Arsenal

28 October 2024 Shana Leave a comment

In a dramatic and intense match, Mohamed Salah scored late to secure a crucial point for Liverpool against Arsenal. The egyptian striker continues to shine against top Premier League teams, proving his worth once again.

Photos : Arsenal/Liverpool FC/DR

Arsenal’s dominant first half

Arsenal started strong, with Bukayo Saka opening the scoring brilliantly. Mikel Merino added a second, putting Arsenal in a commanding position. However, injuries to Gabriel Magalhães and Jurriën Timber in the second half weakened their defense.

Salah’s late equalizer

Liverpool struggled to create chances but found a breakthrough when Darwin Núñez set up Mohamed Salah, who calmly finished to level the score. This goal marked Salah’s 11th in 15 league appearances against Arsenal.

Controversial ending

The match ended in controversy as Gabriel Jesus’s late goal was disallowed by referee Anthony Taylor, leaving Arsenal fans frustrated. Despite the draw, the performances of Bukayo Saka and Mohamed Salah stood out.

Photos : Arsenal/Liverpool FC/DR

Liverpool’s resilience

Liverpool showed resilience, with Virgil Van Dijk leading the defense and Mohamed Salah making the difference up front. Arsenal’s intensity in the first half was notable, but Liverpool’s persistence paid off in the end.

Photos : Arsenal/Liverpool FC/DR

ART & CULTURE, NEWS

David Bowie : A timeless legacy in the heart of London

26 October 2024 Shana Leave a comment

David Bowie will soon have a new reason to celebrate. The V&A in London has announced the upcoming opening of the David Bowie Centre, a free exhibition offering unprecedented access to the personal archives of the musical legend.

Unprecedented access to Bowie’s treasures

Next autumn, the V&A East Storehouse, located in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, will unveil an impressive collection of 90,000 items belonging to David Bowie. Among these treasures are handwritten lyrics, letters, iconic costumes, instruments, and stage accessories. Visitors can explore these artifacts in an organized manner or embark on independent research in a dedicated study area.

A world-class collection

The V&A East Storehouse will house over 250,000 objects and 350,000 books across four levels in a 170,000-square-foot space. Designed by architects Diller, Scofidio + Renfro, this space encourages independent discovery, moving away from traditional museum pathways. The revolutionary “Order an Object” service will allow visitors to reserve items from the collection in advance for on-site viewing, free of charge.

Photos : Victoria and Albert Museum/V&A Storehouse/DR

An immersive and personalized experience

Tim Reeve, Deputy Director and Chief Operating Officer of the V&A, stated: “Through the V&A East Storehouse, visitors will be encouraged to immerse themselves in the magical world behind the scenes of museums and embark on their own journey through the V&A’s global collections.” This innovative approach promises to create more transparent and personalized experiences for all visitors.

Treasures for all enthusiasts

Fashion enthusiasts can admire the Union Jack coat designed for the Earthling album by David Bowie and Alexander McQueen, as well as Kansai Yamamoto’s creations for the Aladdin Sane tour. Film buffs will discover photo collages from Nicolas Roeg’s film “The Man Who Fell to Earth”, starring Bowie, and examples of the “cut-up” writing method introduced to Bowie by William Burroughs.

A living legacy

Handwritten lyrics of iconic songs like “Ashes to Ashes” and “Heroes” will offer a unique glimpse into Bowie’s creative process. The exhibition will also feature previously unseen projects and intimate writings, revealing the indelible artistic mark Bowie left on the world.

Photos : Victoria and Albert Museum/V&A Storehouse/DR

A visual and musical experience

Visitors will also be able to admire prints and photos of Bowie, tracing his famous looks from films, music videos, and live performances, from the Ziggy Stardust era to Berlin and beyond. This exhibition promises to be an unforgettable visual and musical experience.

Access for all

Thanks to a £10 million donation from the Blavatnik family and Warner Music, David Bowie’s archives will be accessible to the public at the new V&A Storehouse in Stratford. This initiative preserves and shares Bowie’s legacy with future generations, offering a portal into the history of one of the most influential artists of our time.

Photos : Victoria and Albert Museum/V&A Storehouse/DR

MUSIQUE, NEWS

MUSIQUE DJ AG: London’s new musical vanguard

26 October 2024 Shana Leave a comment

DJ AG, a rising star on TikTok, is transforming the streets of London into a vibrant and inclusive musical stage. From Skepta to kids with their grandmothers, everyone is invited to join the live party.

Urban awakening

After a long stay on the coast, I returned to London, eager to dive back into the city’s energy. As soon as I stepped out of Kings Cross station, I was drawn to a DJ set up in front of a bustling McDonald’s. Surrounded by flashing lights and an enthusiastic crowd, DJ AG was mixing grime, British rap, and bashment, creating an electric atmosphere. “This is London,” I thought to myself.

Photos : AG/London/DR

Virtual and Open-Air stage

Known online as DJ AG, he is a live streamer on TikTok who sets up his turntables in various parts of the city every day, broadcasting his sets worldwide. His eclectic repertoire, ranging from UK garage to drill and dancehall, reflects the richness of the Black British diaspora. His sessions, often recorded and shared on TikTok and Instagram, capture unique moments, such as Croydon rapper Rome or Jamaican singer Chi Ching making passersby dance.

Nomadic and inclusive DJ

During the lockdown, AG left his job as a sales director to pursue his passion. He started with portable turntables, playing in front of Buckingham Palace one day and in a Primark the next. His inclusive approach and interaction with the public, while dodging security guards, quickly earned him growing popularity.

Mission of positivity

Alternating between North London and Brixton, AG moves from intimate moments with the public to performances by singers and MCs. He told the BBC that his mission is simple: “to encourage everyone.” His influence is rapidly growing, with grime figures like Skepta and JME appearing in his streams. As the British rap scene faces a period of doubt, AG offers a back-to-basics approach appreciated by fans.

Photos : AG/London/DR

A cultural phenomenon

AG’s impact extends beyond big names. His platform gives a voice to lesser-known artists, such as ragga singer Daddy Freddy, filmed performing in front of an Iceland store. It’s also a space where improbable moments happen, like a middle-aged woman rapping to Luniz’s “5 On It” while wearing a hard hat.

The essence of London

Elijah, a DJ and author, describes AG as “the most important DJ in the UK right now.” The diversity and energy he brings to his sets capture the essence of London. Let’s hope this musical adventure continues for a long time, preserving the joy and positivity that make it a unique phenomenon.

Photos : AG/London/DR

ART & CULTURE, LIFESTYLE, NEWS

Poppy Fields : A beacon of hope at the Tower of London

26 October 2024 Shana Leave a comment

A luminous tribute to war heroes, next month, the Tower of London will shine brightly to honor the memory of those who sacrificed their lives during the First and Second World Wars. From November 8th to 16th, visitors will have the unique opportunity to see the historic White Tower in a new light, thanks to an immersive and moving exhibition.

Immersive and emotional experience

The sound and light installation, titled Poppy Fields at the Tower of London, will transform the famous fortress into a space for reflection and commemoration. Animated images of falling poppy petals, soldier silhouettes, and the military medal “For Bravery in the Field” will illuminate the Tower’s walls, creating an atmosphere that is both solemn and poetic.

Photos : Tower of London/London/DR

Journey through history

Ticket holders for this nighttime event will enjoy exclusive access to the Crown Jewels, usually surrounded by crowds. They will also learn more about the fascinating history of their removal from the Tower during the two world wars. This experience promises to be both educational and deeply touching.

Message of peace and remembrance

Historic Royal Palaces, the independent charity that manages the Tower of London, explains : “Poppy Fields at the Tower will create a space for visitors to remember those who lost their lives in these conflicts, as well as all who served, and will also look to the future, exploring the collective desire for peace.” Accompanied by music and poetry, this exhibition invites everyone to reflect on the sacrifices of the past while nurturing hope for a peaceful future. A visit not to be missed for those who wish to pay tribute to war heroes and be captivated by the magic of the location.

In Brief :

Dates: November 8 – 16

Entry Fee: From £10

Photos : Tower of London/London/DR

FASHION, NEWS, SPORT

The Chanel J12 boat race : A historic partnership

26 October 2024 Shana Leave a comment

Chanel embarks on a new journey with the boat race. In a groundbreaking move, French fashion house Chanel will become the main sponsor of The Boat Race starting in 2025. This marks Chanel’s first venture into the world of sports, establishing a long-term partnership that will see the event renamed The Chanel J12 Boat Race, after one of the brand’s iconic watches. Chanel will also take on the role of official timekeeper for the race.

Photos : Chanel/Boat Race/Benedict Tufnell & Row360

New era for the boat race

Replacing the cryptocurrency company Gemini, this new agreement will be in place until at least 2029. This period will include significant milestones: the 200th anniversary of the men’s race, which began in 1829, and the 100th anniversary of the women’s race, founded in 1929. The Boat Race, a historic competition between Oxford and Cambridge universities, is the oldest sporting event in the United Kingdom. The 2025 edition is scheduled for Sunday, April 13, covering the 4.25-mile championship course between Putney and Mortlake in London. Annually, over 250,000 spectators line the riverbanks, with millions more watching the live broadcast on the BBC.

Shared values and vision

Frédéric Grangie, President of Chanel Watches and Fine Jewelry, expressed his enthusiasm for this strategic partnership. He highlighted the shared values of collective effort and the pursuit of excellence between Chanel and The Boat Race. “It is an honor to be the first official timekeeper in the 195-year history of the race to simultaneously become title sponsor and principal partner,” Grangie stated.
He also drew parallels between the synchronization required in rowing and the precision of watchmaking, noting that each rower, like each component of a watch, must work in perfect harmony.

Photos : Chanel/Boat Race/Benedict Tufnell & Row360

Chanel’s sporting heritage

While this is Chanel’s first sports sponsorship, the brand has deep roots in the world of sports. Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, the company’s founder, was an avid sportswoman who incorporated materials like jerseys and tweeds into her designs. Siobhan Cassidy, Chair of The Boat Race Company, shared her excitement: “We are delighted to welcome Chanel as our new main sponsor. Their involvement will help bring the event to new audiences and enhance it for our millions of current followers.” This partnership promises to elevate The Boat Race’s visibility and infuse it with Chanel’s signature elegance and precision.

In brief :

Dates: April 13, 2025

Location: Putney to Mortlake, London

Entry Fee: Free to watch along the riverbanks

Photos : Chanel/Boat Race/Benedict Tufnell & Row360

NEWS, SPORT

Bournemouth ends Arsenal’s unbeaten streak

20 October 2024 Shana Leave a comment

Arsenal’s unbeaten run at the start of the season came to a dramatic end at the Vitality Stadium. Reduced to ten men after William Saliba’s red card, the Gunners couldn’t withstand Bournemouth’s pressure, losing 2-0.

A decisive turning point

French international William Saliba received the first red card of his career after just 30 minutes, following a foul on Evanilson near the center circle. This expulsion, caused by a careless pass from Leandro Trossard, put Arsenal in a difficult position for the rest of the match.

Photos : Arsenal/AfcBournemouth/DR

William Saliba
“I’m disappointed to leave my teammates with ten men. It was a mistake in judgment on my part.”

Bournemouth takes advantage

Determined to bounce back after a series of defeats, Bournemouth capitalized on their numerical advantage. With 20 minutes remaining, Ryan Christie opened the scoring with a magnificent strike into the top corner, following a clever corner routine. Nine minutes later, Justin Kluivert sealed the victory by converting a penalty won by Evanilson.

Ryan Christie
“We knew we had to make the most of our advantage. This is an important win for us.”

A dark series for Arsenal

This defeat ends a 16-match unbeaten streak for Arsenal. The Gunners, who had managed to secure crucial points against Manchester City and Brighton, couldn’t replicate the feat this time. The absence of Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard was sorely felt.

Photos : Arsenal/AfcBournemouth/DR

Mikel Arteta
“Playing with ten men for over 60 minutes in the Premier League is extremely difficult. We need to learn from this experience.”

Outlook for Bournemouth

This victory lifts Bournemouth to 10th place in the standings, ending a run of four consecutive defeats. Manager Andoni Iraola hopes this performance will reignite his team’s season.

Andoni Iraola
“We showed character today. This is a win that can change our momentum.”

A Bitter Defeat for the Ten-Man Gunners

This match was marked by the red card, with Bournemouth seizing their opportunity, while Arsenal will need to quickly recover from this setback for the challenges ahead.

Photos : Arsenal/AfcBournemouth/DR

ART & CULTURE, NEWS

Marilyn Monroe : An icon timelessly celebrated in London

20 October 2024 Shana Leave a comment

The newly opened exhibition dedicated to Marilyn Monroe in London offers a captivating journey into the life and legacy of one of Hollywood’s most enduring icons. This exhibition, designed to be both intimate and immersive, allows visitors to rediscover Marilyn Monroe beyond the usual clichés.

Photos : Ted Stampfler/Arches London Bridge/Kbsp/DR

Exploring the icon

The exhibition delves deeply into the transformation of Norma Jeane Baker into Marilyn Monroe, a metamorphosis that has fascinated the world. Through a carefully curated selection of personal items, clothing, and memorabilia, visitors are invited to trace the path of this legendary star from her humble beginnings to her meteoric rise to fame.

Immersive experience

The atmosphere of the exhibition is enhanced by an immersive setup that recreates Monroe’s glamorous and complex world. Visitors can freely explore, immerse themselves in recreations of iconic scenes, and use audioguides to enrich their experience. Inspirational quotes from Marilyn Monroe, displayed throughout the exhibit, provide insight into her personality and spirit.

Photos : Ted Stampfler/Arches London Bridge/Kbsp/DR

Vibrant tribute

This exhibition is more than just a retrospective; it is a vibrant tribute to a woman who left an indelible mark on her era and continues to influence popular culture. By celebrating Monroe’s beauty, talent, and humanity, the exhibition underscores why she remains an essential figure in cinema history.
This new exhibition in London offers a unique opportunity to rediscover Marilyn Monroe, not only as a movie star but also as a complex and fascinating woman. It is a must-visit for all culture and cinema history enthusiasts.

Informations:

Arches London Bridge, 8 Bermondsey St, SE12ER

Here’s a summary of the exhibition entry times

Weekdays and Sundays : Last entry at 4:30 PM.
Saturdays : Last entry at 6:00 PM.

Additionally, special events may affect these times, so it’s a good idea to check the website before you visit, especially if you have an anytime entry ticket.

Photos : Ted Stampfler/Arches London Bridge/Kbsp/DR

ART & CULTURE, NEWS

Hew Locke at the British Museum : Unveiling colonial legacies

19 October 2024 Shana Leave a comment

An Artistic and Historical Exploration of British Museum Artifacts. Guyanese-British artist Hew Locke presents his exhibition, “Hew Locke: What Have We Here?” at the British Museum, revealing specially commissioned works that scrutinize Britain’s colonial legacy. After two years of intensive research, Locke meticulously curated over 150 items from prestigious collections.

Photos : London/Hew Locke/BritishMuseum/DR

A deep dive into the past

Key pieces in the exhibition include a ceramic bust of Queen Victoria adorned with skulls and tropical foliage. Locke also created carnival-like figures, the Watchers, who observe visitors like a Greek chorus, breaking the fourth wall. The exhibition explores four main themes: Sovereigns and Icons of Nationality, Trade, Conflict, and Treasure. Locke, along with his partner Indra Khanna, spent hours in the museum’s secret vaults uncovering significant objects.

Photos : London/Hew Locke/BritishMuseum/DR

Objects and their stories

Barbados Penny : Minted in 1788, this coin depicts the head of an African adorned with feathers, a grim parody of the Prince of Wales’ motto, “I serve,” highlighting the forced servitude of enslaved people.

Asante Jug : Crafted in the 1390s, this jug traveled from England to the royal court of Asante. It symbolizes African power, having become valuable before being looted by the British in 1896.

Toucan Eating a Bird : This work by Maria Sibylla Merian, from 1701–1705, depicts the violence observed in Suriname, where the artist witnessed atrocities committed in Dutch sugar plantations.

Pendant/Plate : This pendant, belonging to a priest of Asantehene, was transformed into a European trophy after being looted during the third Anglo-Asante war.

Armada 6 : Inspired by the USS Constitution, this boat symbolizes the dual nature of the slave trade and the fight against it. It is adorned with golden masks of Queen Idia, symbols of African culture, and skeletons reminding of life’s fragility.

A revolutionary exhibition

British Museum Director Nicholas Cullinan emphasizes the importance of this exhibition for critically examining objects with complex histories. Locke sees this project as an opportunity to discuss “loot and other things,“ encouraging reflection on the implications of colonial history. “Hew Locke: What Have We Here?” is at the British Museum until February 9, 2025, inviting visitors to explore and question the historical and artistic narratives of the British Empire through a modern lens.

Photos : London/Hew Locke/BritishMuseum/DR

LIFESTYLE, NEWS

Food Mildreds : The return of London’s iconic vegan restaurant

17 October 2024 Shana Leave a comment

London’s iconic vegan restaurant, Mildreds, has reopened its doors following a major transformation. Nestled in the Grade II listed building on Lexington Street in Soho, Mildreds now boasts a sophisticated new look while continuing to serve its world-renowned plant-based cuisine.

A stunning renovation

Mildreds’ new design maximizes space and enhances the customer experience. Spread over three floors, the restaurant now features a private dining room for 18 guests, perfect for special events such as Christmas parties. The building’s exterior, now deep blue with orange window frames, sets the tone for the bold and vibrant renovation. Inside, each space is uniquely decorated with contrasting colors, many plants, and artwork collected over the past 35 years. The bar has been redesigned in coral and bright red tones, with a modern Renaissance-style mural, adding an artistic touch to the ambience. Mildreds celebrated its reopening on October 16th with a special VIP event. CEO Sam Anstey expressed his delight: “We have been pioneers of plant-based dining for decades, and Soho has always been our home, at the heart of London’s most dynamic district.”

Photos : Mildreds/London/DR

A legacy of culinary innovation

Since its opening in 1988, Mildreds has been at the forefront of vegetarian and vegan culinary innovation. Known for its ability to surprise and delight its customers, the restaurant is a favorite among many celebrities, including Sir Paul McCartney and Anne Hathaway.

Bold and creative cuisine

Under the creative direction of Sarah Wasserman, Mildreds’ culinary development team constantly pushes the boundaries with new flavors and bold concepts. Wasserman explains, “Our culinary philosophy always showcases the freshest and tastiest ingredients available in plant-based cuisine.”

Photos : Mildreds/London/DR

Ongoing expansion

In addition to its new look in Soho, Mildreds has plans for further growth, including a series of best-selling cookbooks. The aim is to make delicious vegan food accessible to everyone, wherever they are.

Transformation for a legendary dining experience

With this reopening, Mildreds continues to be a go-to destination for vegan cuisine enthusiasts, delighting its customers with culinary innovations and unparalleled hospitality.