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Steven’s Viewz 

Screenshot
Picture Terry Scott

A column that does not hold back.

My viewz and not of 2Shades brought to you bi -monthly a column that does not hold back

“Where to pee or not to pee, is that really a question?”

Trans. Trans, dear God has there ever been a topic that will have you cancelled simply for not agreeing and get so many hot under the collar? 

Now let us get this straight and to help the right-wing God squad: if your apparent higher power allowed a child to be born with bone cancer or deformed, is there not a chance he popped one or two in the wrong body too?  

For me, if a man or woman feels they have been born in the wrong body and have undergone two years of therapy and gender reassignment, as far as I am concerned, they are now the sex of their choice.

People who have had gender-affirming surgery have been in my life since I was 16. The Famous Julia / George dropped coffee all over my Fiorucci white jump suit at “Scandals” night club when she ran the coffee shop there. Strangely we became friends. From April Ashley to Tallulah, famous sex changes have been in the news. Many have played under the radar and of course with some there was the odd whisper, but all for most part got on with their new lives. Wonderful India Willoughby, whom I admire, campaigns for 

https://www.amazon.com/Just-Julia-Story-Extraordinary-Woman/dp/1852834811

rights and (just as important) educates. She is always approachable

if I have a question of anyone else for that matter on the topic .

The lovely India Willoughby https://x.com/IndiaWilloughby?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

Transvestites who enjoy popping a frock on are not in that transgender category, however.

Nor is drag. Drag has been around since time began and in the theatrical sense it is a performance. So many people seem to be labelling drag artists as trans which, for the most part, they are not. Men that suddenly announce they are trans and pop on a frock, an acrylic wig and some false nails are not women.

Sure, some might be starting a journey towards being a woman. Others never will make that trip and must appreciate it is a dream and not expect rights as a woman.

Tim Curry in the incredible The Rocky Horror show is a sweet Transvestite not to be confused with gender reassignment https://rockyhorror.co.uk

Much as mixed toilets have been in many venues for years, the right for a woman or, when it comes to it, a man to go the toilet that is used by their own sex should be enforced. What many forget is some women are coping with trauma, having been raped or abused badly by men. They will find the idea of sharing a bathroom (where they are in a vulnerable state) with anyone with a penis utterly terrifying. Simply put, if you have a penis stay out of the ladies loo. 

What is bizarre to me and many of the trans is this “Dead Life”, i.e. if you are now identify as woman, your prior life is “Dead Life” and you can suddenly create a whole past as girl. One (who we all know) 

described how she slept with a variety of celebrities as a beautiful young girl – the issue here is she was a 17-year-old spotty boy at the time she claims it happened. It is just a lie, a “Fantasy Life” that to my mind is closer to criminal fraud. 

I certainly would have been trans back in my school years. I used to pray that I would wake as a girl because being a boy was pure misery for me. Today I love being a man, in fact after about 14 that desire to be a girl eventually passed. For many it does not, and they have my 

empathy and support to be who they want to be after a certain age.

Forcing kids into boxes i.e. boys like football and action and 

girls like Barbie and cooking is one of the unhealthiest things I can think of.  It is responsible for so many mental health issues in those kids who do not fit into society’s false expectations. But please do not let kids undergo surgery till they are fully matured and can decide if it is still what they really want.

Personally there would be no way I would even want a child of mine to have a piercing or tattoo until they were in their late teens. There are support groups such as Mermaids that help young people who feel they are struggling with gender

https://mermaidsuk.org.uk

Finally, practise what you preach. A lovely trans woman who I respected and addressed as a woman (even though they had not had surgery, or any work done), berated me for not eating what I was given at a dinner table (I do not eat red meat or pork).

 “In my day you ate what you were given!” she chastised me. 

Thank God for you it is not “your days” as you would be running for the hills dressed as woman. The problem is, if we expect people to accept us for who we are, it has to be reciprocal, not one-sided. 

Colin Farrell – a real man of action

As if we could not love Colin Farrell enough already, the actor and his son James have melted our hearts this month. Colin has been talking about his 20-year-old son James who lives with Angel Syndrome. 

 “I want the world to be kind to James. I want the world to treat him with kindness and respect.” 

The actor told People Magazine in the US. 

https://people.com

Angelman syndrome is genetic disorder that mainly affects the nervous system. Symptoms include a small head and a specific facial appearance, severe intellectual disability, developmental disability, limited to no functional speech, balance and movement problems, seizures, and sleep problems.

Farrell has started a foundation in honour of his son in the US. The Colin Farrell Foundation will provide support for adult children who have an intellectual disability through advocacy, education and innovative programs.

As for the foundation, for years Farrell has wanted to do something in the realm of providing greater opportunities for families who have a child with special needs, to receive the support that they deserve and the assistance in all areas of life.

“Once your child turns 21, they’re kind of on their own,” Farrell says. “All the safeguards that are put in place, special ed classes, that all goes away, so you’re left with a young adult who should be an integrated part of our modern society and often is left behind.” 

This is mirrored in the UK. Last year Dr Anna Kennedy OBE petitioned Number 10 Downing Street to help those living with autism to be aided after the age of 24 where government aid stops. “Who will look after my sons when I am gone?” is a question Anna has raised along with many parents of children with special needs.

Dr Anna Kennedy OBE and me delivering a petition to Number 10 downing street picture Terry Scott ,

Colin and Anna are real heroes and we need more of the likes of these two in this world. 

Home
Home

Toxic Come Dancing 

Yet more bad news for the BBC as their top-rated show “Strictly Come Dancing” comes under fire for apparent bullying as previous contestants have been complaining.

Oh do get a grip. You go into a reality show and you are really expecting it to be plain sailing? 

These people complaining of bad treatment have agents and a 

right to walk out at any time. Stop, enough already. Do not go into a 

show like “Strictly” or “I’m a Celebrity” and expect back rubs and hugs.

Dance is a highly disciplined practice and anyone who has properly 

trained at the ballet or dance school will tell you it is not for the faint 

hearted.

To conclude .

When your bear friend has been taking Ozempic and asks if 

you have noticed any visible side effects on them…

End .

email Steven at spman@btinternet.com

agent https://www.comptonmanagement.com/?p=739

Categories
Columns

Pride

“Pride” means the quality or state of being proud, including self-esteem and a reasonable or justifiable self-respect.
It also denotes, “Delight or elation arising from some act or possession or relationship.” 
@adishrichengappa @stevenswords63 in Born Anxious PROUD T-shirts picture Anna Marie Bickton https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk

It has been Brighton Pride this weekend sadly I could not be there but it is just amazing to even see online!

I could not be prouder of how 2Shades is appealing to all of the community and our ally’s Pride is something we all take seriously it is who we are at the core of the magazine.

Brighton Pride picture by Simon Dack

Such changed days, indeed, from the 1970s, when the only form of LGBTQ publication around was “Gay News”, which I use to smuggle into the family home as a teenage boy. Back then, for mainstream magazines or newspapers to feature gay people in a positive light could be the kiss of death for the publication. It was a time when openly gay actors could be blacklisted with in the industry. Even being suspected of being gay could see you thrown out of the armed forces.

I remember my mother, on discovering the hidden paper, standing and screaming, “There is no such thing as ‘Gay News’, just bad news.” At the age of 15, I was out, causing more than a little scandal at my school, and despair and outrage at home. Much as my mother is now a big advocate of LGBTQ, it caused considerable upset in the 1970s. Only my sister, who was 13 at the time, had a kind word. She had been told there had been a great family upset. Karen squeezed my hand and told me she always knew I was gay, and she loved me.

PRIDE Picture Graham Martin https://www.grahammartinphotography.co.uk T shirt

My parents’ answer was to take me to see the Samaritans, to meet a man who had been in the merchant navy and therefore “knew about gays”. I can still see him sitting there in his light-blue pullover, looking somewhat uncomfortable. His advice was that gay men did not all look like David Bowie or Marc Bolan. I pointed out that both were, in fact, bisexual. He continued, “If you go to Portsmouth, there are big, hairy men on bikes looking for and preying on young men.” 

Once safely back in the car with my parents, I raised the question: “Where is Portsmouth and how do I get there?” 

Sadly, it always seems to be a shock when someone comes out to the family. There are more negative stories than positive ones. Even a model friend of mine, whose son was never out of her high heels and frocks, seemed devastated when he broke the news. It raised the question, “What was she seeing all those years as he grew up?” 

This is a question also asked in the brilliant drama series, “It’s A Sin”. Valerie Tozer, masterfully played by Keely Hawes, is a mother in denial as her son lies dying of Aids. She blames everyone she can find except herself. Sandra (played by Ruth Sheen), whose son also lies ill, asks just that question: “What were you looking at when he was six? Ten? Fifteen?”

It is Sin https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9140342/

Even still today, kids are thrown out of their homes for being LGBTQ, and even for many that are allowed to stay, their lives can be made miserable. Their only crime is being a human being who loves someone or is attracted to the same sex. These are the same kids whose parents happily hand toy guns to them and let them play war games. But – what horror in a kiss with someone of the same sex!

I cried when watching the superbly crafted “Heartstoppers” on Netflix. The character Nick tells his mother he likes boys and girls. Played beautifully by Olivia Colman, the mother calmly thanks him for sharing that with her and hopes he is okay. If only more parents acted that way, there would be so much less trauma within the LGBTQ+ community, and our mental health would be stronger.

Heartstopper https://www.netflix.com/gb/title/81059939

Things might be getting better, but the LGBTQ+ community is still under attack every day. As with all wars, a good strategy is a key factor in survival. Education in schools is essential – using positive role models, and making kids feel safe who do not fit the masculine or feminine stereotypes. This is still going to take time, understanding, and some amazing people to give a strong voice.

Education is the key to most things, and this includes brilliant diversity role models going into schools and talking about their lives. It is important, in everyday life, that we are up to educating our children and spotting the difference between homophobia and mere ignorance in this woke society, where everyone seems easily offended. A woman said to me quite recently, when I was clearly channelling a butch moment, “You don’t seem that gay. My hairdresser Eduardo is gay. He’s a scream. He does drag on a Tuesday.”

Looking at her carefully, I pointed out that the Krays were gay, adding one or two other examples. She went deadly quiet, and after a moment, she apologised. She hoped I was not offended. Of course, I wasn’t, but I had made someone think. 

Thankfully, we now have positive role models that people can identify with. Jake Daniels, the first openly gay footballer, made headlines last month, and we also have Gareth Thomas, the rugby player, and Tom Daley, Olympic gold medallist. The sad thing is, while there are many gay footballers, fear of losing endorsements or their peers’ reactions keeps them in the closet. It is tragic that this still makes headline news. It shows that society still does not really except such men. 

Jake Daniels footballer

It is wonderful to see David Beckham come out and back Jake, but disappointing that he also backs the World Cup in Qatar, a country that still has the death penalty for gay people. We need our allies not to sit on the fence when it comes to human rights.

The gay community can be a homophobic place too. Often, the more flamboyant characters are not seen as the heroes. Gay men themselves sometimes fear being labelled camp or effeminate.

. But our tireless fights are not just for gay rights, but human rights. Quintin Crisp may have had some lapses in judgment, but he was a voice in the dark for people like me, Boy George and our generation. Bowie and Marc Bolan also showed us it was okay to be different.

Boy George a light for many

The truth is, if an alien landed and asked us to show them what a typical gay person looked like, it would be impossible. It would be like being asked to find a quintessential heterosexual – then going to Chelsea football ground in the company of an overweight man, with a pint and a Union Jack t-shirt, smoking a fag, and shouting, “This is what a straight man looks like.” There would be an outcry, and trust me, there are many gay men that look like that too. 

I have often been asked “Why do you need ‘Pride’. There’s no straight Pride.” My answer is always, “Thank your lucky stars you don’t need straight Pride.” We have to be a voice and be seen, in order to hope that one day, no-one will blink an eye if I hold my boyfriend’s hand in public. We must also hope that one day, that teenage boy’s or girl’s mum and dad will hug them when they come out, and the world will be a safe place for the LGBTQ+ community. It’s getting better, but we still have a long way to go. 

Please tell everyone about 2Shades magazine and subscribe to us.

https://www.channel4.com/programmes/its-a-sin

https://www.netflix.com/gb/title/81059939

Categories
Health and Fitness Lifestyle People

Michael Edde celebrity Barber

Michael The Barber best kept secret
Mike Edde with one of the many celebrity clients Eammon Holmes

When it comes to woman’s hair if you need a brand new hair style it really is worth paying top dollar to get the best attention and idea’s to create a new you.

But often with a trim round the bottom you can get the same result with out robbing the bank at your local salon just do not expect a cappuccino , five minute head rub at the back wash and latest recommendations to the top spots in town you would get in the really high-end Salons. 

However, when it comes to men’s hair, I gave up years ago getting my friends to cut my locks. It took too long and they never really did what I wanted except for the brilliant Martyne Fletcher who used to tend the late Joanne Rivers.

I gravitated to going to Sassoon’s who really never once  made me happy and other high end Salon often leaving  feeling  robbed at £50 -£80 for a trim.  One day I  was just about to give up when saw a man in the gym who’s hair I liked so following my own advise   I asked where he had it cut. “Mike the Barbers ” he replied. A local men’s shop that I had seen but would never dream of trusting my blond do to a shop a barbers.

I actually stood outside for three or four minutes  to get up the nerve to go in, before asking for Mike, a dashing bubbly local legend in Earl’s Court. For sure there was not cappuccino in sight and no head rub, in fact unless you request it they do not wash your hair, as I more than often had to take the brush off the stylists in the high end salons and dry it myself so it was no loss to me.

Mike in his shop in Earl’s Court is legendary

Unlike many Sassoon people I noticed they where experts with razor’s and thinning scissors. I told Mike what i wanted and he asked if  I would like the harsh line softened a bit, it had always bugged me that  they could not soften it. Always ended up with a server wedge or fire fly. With in 15 minutes for the first time in years I loved my hair and did not need to grow a bit back or wish it had been cut shorter.

Mike tend the locks of actor Nick Nevern https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2339680/

Even better it was £11, I get it cut  every two weeks now to  keep it neat and I go with out worrying it will be yet another disappointment . Mike has been doing my hair for six years and every fella I recommend goes again and again and one or two short hair ladies love him too. You never know who you will bump into Wayne Sleep might just come pirouetting by or one of the many celeb clients that know the secret.

Now colouring is another thing only to go high-end.

Michael’s Barbers 

54 Kenway road 

Earl’s Court 

London SW50RA

0207 370 6983

http://www.allinlondon.co.uk/directory/1183/16564.php

Categories
Culture Lifestyle

2Shades Big Night Out

Some of the team try “The Rising “ SE1 for a night out.
https://www.therisingse1.com

“What, a night out on a Saturday in London? Is that not just for tourists?!” This was my reaction when the 2Shades team suggested we let our hair down and party.

You can only get me out on a Saturday if it is a friend’s birthday, a wedding or some special occasion. The very idea of pushing through the crowds that descend on Soho and the likes fills me with dread.  Favouring house parties or enjoying a few select friends over for dinner would be my choice at the weekend. 

“Do not worry, leave it with me”, said 2Shades writer therapist Michael Power. “I will find somewhere different. Maybe drag brunch or somewhere new”.  Telling him I had nothing to wear elicited the reaction, “Shut up!” 

The 2Shades team at The Rising.

A few days later the 2Shades WhatsApp message with the venue flashed up. “The Rising” SE1. OK, that is Elephant and Castle. Sure, I go to Southwark Play House https://southwarkplayhouse.co.uk and it is not far from the tube. But let me be honest, it is not somewhere where (wrongly or rightly) partying springs to mind.  

However, the web page looked interesting, you’re allowed to bring your dog (so ten points on that!) and they advertise cabaret. Mike rarely gets it wrong, liking to do his homework on everything from holidays to special occasions.

It was the first official 2Shades night out. The Rising is a five-minute walk (even in heels) from Elephant and Castle Tube, or 15 minutes bus ride from Canda Water. The bus stops right across the road by the Express Tesco’s and the Rising is almost opposite on Harper Road.

We should have of checked we where not wearing the same T-Shirts

Upon arrival it was hard to believe my eyes. Not just how stunning Adishiri, 2Shades Queen and Editor, and Mike were looking, but the vibe of The Rising. There was kind of a New York Village, Fort Lauderdale feel to it. Lots of outdoor seating and a friendly atmosphere.

A huge star was the wonderful security guard on hand, George. He is fully trained and unlike many gay venues when you’re greeted by someone who is as cold as the “ice bucket challenge”, George is gay, and blended a warm but no-nonsense approach to taking care of everyone.

@adishrichengappa
@spman631dbbf47d

Despite the football being on (this added a bit of camp to the evening), immediately we started to relax and enjoy ourselves. The bar staff are eclectic and very friendly and provide a great array of wines and beers plus some lethal cocktails and shots. There is no food, but you are welcome to order in or bring your own and they will provide cutlery. 

@adishrichengappa with Ella Gant Drag Royalty

No sooner than the football was over, it seemed half the crowd emptied out. It filled back up over the course of the evening.  Football was replaced by live entertainment in the form of Drag Queen super star Ella Gant. Now Ella is a star performer you would pay to see. The Rising had laid her on for free.

Ella apologised at the start of the show she had not been well; her voice was not at its vocal best. Well, what a show Ella put on! She had us singing and dancing along for over and hour and if that was her voice when she was not at her finest, we all can’t wait to go back and see her full strength as we had an evening to remember

Drag Queen Ella Gant

The Rising might just be the best LGBTQQA bar we have been to in a while; it is really diverse and exciting, and you do not have to fight through the West End to get to it. It is just perfect for a group of friends to enjoy or even go on your own. Please try The Rising and see for yourself.

The Rising.

The Rising https://www.therisingse1.com

98 Harper Road

London

SE1 6AQ

020 3885 0990

hello@TheRisingSE1.com

Categories
Culture

The QUEENZ show throw an entertainment jamboree in Soho

The QUEENZ show at the Underbelly Boulevard in Soho, London
Theatre and Broadway meets drag excellence at the QUEENZ show in Underbelly Boulevard, Soho.
They served unimaginable vocals, fierce choreography and a stellar production overall by David Griego and team.
The QUEENZ https://www.queenztheshow.com/

I didn’t really know what to expect when I walked in but the atmosphere at the Underbelly Boulevard was bougie to say the least.

Flutes of champagne, prosecco and wine sat cosy at the entrance for the guests who put on their best outfits for the night.

I wasn’t ready to walk into a festival on a Tuesday evening but the energy in the room made me believe the weekend had arrived.

There was a press wall for all of the guests to take pictures with the gorgeous Summer Stone who was an absolute vision in fluorescent. 

Summer Stone with guests at the press wall https://www.queenztheshow.com/

It was press night and the room was crawling with media moguls like myself who just wanted to have a good time, professionally…maybe.

I made my way up to the theatre to find my seat in the VIP box (a subtle flex). The first thing I noticed was the word QUEENZ bedazzling and glimmering on stage. 

It didn’t take long for all of the seats to be occupied, everyone was eager to watch the QUEENZ waltz onto the stage.

They certainly didn’t waltz, they strutted onto the stage with a gracious stride to let us know they’ve arrived in power.

The energy these queens brought to the show with their incredible vocals lifted me to a high vibration state in seconds.

The command they had over the stage reflected the attitude of seasoned drag queens who have been doing it for years. 

And these are young queens, who have taken their experience as theatre/broadway artists and poured it into drag to create an astounding form of high art.

Picture credit: https://www.queenztheshow.com/

Bella DuBall carries the aura of being the mother of the group who draws the audience in with just her eyes. With her golden corset and fiery wig, she had the whole theatre in the palm of her hands and her irresistible gaze. 

She was unafraid to show us exactly how limitless her vocal registry was but it was her personality that held me hostage. She was witty, naughty and oozed goddess fantasy. 

Speaking of personality, Zeze Van Cartier was a big one with her moustache butch drag realness. Who devoured the stage with her voice and left no crumbs.

Her animated expressions kept me in the loop the entire time. She was the epitome of entertainment throughout the show with her magnificent presence.

She also enlightened us on a little history on drag as an art form and how it’s been around for over 2000 years. Which was quite interesting for me to learn as someone who thought RuPaul Charles was the start of it all.

One of the QUEENZ stole my heart with her vocals in a manner that made me believe she was the Cher or the Celine Dion of drag. 

Dior Montay had no business being that extraordinary but I’m not mad about it. And if that wasn’t enough repertoire, she also made us chuckle with some cheeky comedy. 

They were all comedy queens with a touch of theatre and exciting themes/concepts of characters for each of the queens.

Billie Eyelash was a fireball on the stage who was the ditsy sultry queen who was fearless and funny and an absolute treat to watch.

She brought a sense of lightheartedness to the show that was a breath of fresh air from all of the intense energy we were adsorbing.

Her comedy was refreshing and her vocals were stunning. And she could definitely be the girl next door you have a laugh and go reckless shopping with. She’s the loveable queen of the lot.

Candy Caned was the silly girl from Essex and the doll of the group. She pranced around the theatre and blessed me with a charming touch on my hand that made me weak in the knees even though I was sat. She slayed the high notes but it was the rap queen in her that made me gag for her more.

However, I was deceived towards the end when she nearly cried from the standing ovation we owed them for putting on an incredible show.

It was in her soft sobs that I realised that this was a team of lovely queens who have worked so hard in the past three years to get to where they are now.

Candy Caned made me see the heart behind the art and the sisterhood amongst them as they held hands to make sure she was okay. The queens then huddled after singing ‘True Colours’ to receive the love they so rightfully deserve.  

I would be wrong not to mention Jayce, an icon disguised as a member of the crew backstage. Who surprised us with their hilarious cameos as part of the bit. Death-dropping into our lives with snazzy silver boots and became the 6th member of the QUEENZ without breaking a sweat.

Picture credit: https://www.queenztheshow.com/

David Michael Productions have outdone themselves by putting on such an exquisite show with a production that was out of this world.

The lighting, the sound, the design and all of the colours on the stage were all extravagant, opulent and beyond extraordinary. 

This a show of a lifetime with the perfect group of talented queens who love each other and made us all fall in love with ourselves.

“I am a QUEEN” we all were made to say in unison and for a moment I felt like I was a part of the QUEENZ family. Which was truly a safe place for everyone to feel like they belong, feel loved and inspired.

Book your tickets NOW at https://www.queenztheshow.com/tour-dates/

Th QUEENZ will continue to perform from 11th July-18th August at the Underbelly Boulevard. Treat yourself to this magical show, we at 2Shades vouch for the QUEENZ to spice up your life.

Categories
Columns

Come over, it’s Friday

A Poem

My friend opens the door to her toasty apartment
I enter and she wraps me with her warm embrace
She said she needed to finish a chat with a friend on the phone
So I made my way to her living room

Which was painted golden by the sweet hour of the sun
My friend refuses to believe in the mechanism of her blinders
Her carpet floor soaked by the heat of the day
Is she preserving heat for the colder days, I constantly wondered

Her couch has a better tan than I do
If I stayed any longer I would evaporate into the walls 
But this humorous struggle in my head didn’t stop me from lighting a cigarette 
I figured what’s the worst that could happen
If I evaporate, at least I’ll leave my popular scent behind

So I lit my cigarette and felt the burn of regret instantly 
The addict in me rolled her eyes
And continued to file her devilled nails

To my luck, my friend’s apartment has an inspirational view
The city of London right before my eyes
All of what people pay to see, carry papers and fly borders for 
Is right in front of me for free
The trains might not be but the experience surely is

The London eye, rotating like the earth
The Tower Bridge like the elephants on a chess board
And the Shard, raised to the sky for a chance to launch into the ether 
But it never will

To us the Shard is a firm structure with a crystal tip 
And we fancy the possibility of offering a gentle squat from above
But to the universe, all the Shard will ever be is an insignificant point
And to the Shard, all we are is validation and the occasional objectification 

In that moment, my peripheral vision caught a movement 
Familiar to the train of thought I had for the Shard
In a singular cubicle of the flat opposite to my friend’s building
I saw the cheeks of a man breathing heavily

Moving to and fro for a lovely time with his companion 
I caught no glimpse of his company 
But his happy movements masked my curiosity 
My friend finally joined me and I told her about my findings 

We shared the cigarette now and witnessed an imminent climax 
Our heads tilted to the direction of his positions
As he was leaning over his bed with his feet dangling past the edge
My friend pondered the curiosity of who he was with

And just then, he moved further up the bed
He was now on his back and all we could see is him from the knee down 
But the rays of the sun captured the dents of his muscular calves 
As he thrusted with an increasing pace 
My friend intuitively guessed that the end is near

And she was right, his legs and feet straightened and pointed 
Flattened by exhaustion 
Swaying his feet after a satisfying session

My friend gave me back the cigarette
Smirking at our violation 
Blowing the smoke in my face for involving her in the crime

However, we were in too deep
We had to put faces to this seemingly gorgeous couple
So we continued to look 

The man after a couple of minutes finally moved to the edge of the bed
He looked back, patted his companion gently with his hand
And stood up to look at them in adoration 
My friend and I felt the emotions between them
We awed in silence 

He then reached out and pulled his companion out of the bed 
And what we saw turned our awes into dropped jaws
The man carried his doll into the shower with him 
Carelessly bumping and bouncing it off the walls on the way

My friend and I looked at each other with great amusement 
We thought his performance was at the top of the tier
I then told her, in earnest, that I think his time…
To which she concluded, has come. 

Categories
People

2SHADES STRIKE A POSE 

Steven Smith and Adishri Chengappa from 2Shades Magazine strike a pose in their first professional photoshoot with celebrity photographer Anne-Marie Bickerton at The Camera Club in Kennington
 Adishri Chengappa and Steven Smith meet celebrity photographer Anne-Marie Bickerton  https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk
It really was with excitement that 2Shades mega queen editor got ready for her first professional photoshoot.
https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk/
https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk/
https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk/

Yes, two crowns met as Celebrity Photographer Anne-Marie Bickerton takes 2Shades Magazine’s first photoshoot.

 Anne-Marie Bickerton known for her many glossy magazine covers raised her camera and snapped iconic Adishri Chengappa.

Of course, we just had to have someone known for help lift a crown or two involved  Steven Smith the other half of 2 shades jumped in . The results are amazing 

https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk/
https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk/

Adishri said, “This was the most fun experience I’ve ever had! Anne-Marie is such a lovely soul and we got on so well. I could talk to her for ages but more importantly, she made the whole photoshoot such enjoyable experience for us. It’s been a dream of mine to be in a photoshoot and I am so glad I got to have my first experience with my gorgeous partner in crime and love, Steven Smith.”

https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk/

We wanted to thank Born Anxious https://www.bornanxious.co.uk/the-harvey-price-official-clothing-range/harvey-price-t-shirt-gold-h

https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk/
https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk/

For their pride T- shirts we support them and their anti-bullying campaign.

They work with Anna Kennedy online: https://annakennedyonline.com

https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk/

Bad Penny https://abadpenny.com Art meets T-shirts  

Glasses from HERE.

https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk/

Mr Guild Suits: https://mrguild.com/product-category/suits

All pictures Anne Marie Bickerton: https://www.annemariebickerton.co.uk

Head shots from £150 by quote. 

Styling Steven Smith: https://www.comptonmanagement.com/?p=739

Some behind the scenes from the lovely morning we had at The Camera Club in Kennington
Categories
Culture

GEORGE the play: A portal to the past and a token for the future

Léa des Garets as George Sand and Iniki Mariano as Marie Dorval in GEORGE at the Omnibus Theatre in Clapham Common till 14th July
In a cozy theatre in Clapham Common, a timeless production awaits you for a thought provoking journey.
GEORGE is a theatrical masterpiece with illusions of drama, emotions and real-time comedy.
GEORGE at the Onmibus Theatre, Clapham Common, London till 14th July

GEORGE is about a revolutionary french author in the 1800s named Amantine Lucile Aurore Dupin, best know for her pen name George Sand. The play uncovers days in the life of George Sand and her friend/lover, Marie Dorval who motivates George to write again. Several male characters intervene their intimate relationship in the form of obstacles, naysayers and well, a snappy editor.

I arrived on time (luckily) to watch GEORGE at the Omnibus Theatre after panicking about getting off at the wrong stop. 

I entered a nearly full theatre which made me smile for Léa des Garets, writer of the play and her team for the growth they’ve had since the first time I saw them at the Criterion in November 2023.

I looked around at all the happy faces and envied the glasses of wine dancing on their fingertips. I was too comfortable to get up and I didn’t want to miss a minute of the show. Too late for that but perfectly ready to watch GEORGE again.

An intriguing background score engulfed the theatre, it excited me because I don’t think they had it the first time I watched the play. And there they were, Léa des Garets as George Sand, Iniki Mariano as Marie Dorval and Conor Dumbrell as all of the male characters back to steal my presence for the next 95 mins, I delightfully surrendered. 

I felt a rollercoaster of emotions for George Sand. Léa portrays her as an enigmatic character who seems to be on the same planet as us but isn’t. Drawing parallels to relevant issues in our current world from a period play is something I can talk about endlessly if I wanted to but there’s more to it in my eyes. 

As an observer I can say Léa, whether she knows it or not, explores complex layers as an actress to show George Sand’s personality in her own genius way. Sand is recognised as an established author in the history books but Léa’s talent truly shines when I saw no replica of research on the stage. Léa found fragments of herself in George, capitalised on them and made it her own. 

She made me feel resentment and admiration towards George. Who quite honestly was an obsessive pick-me-up girl, but had an abundance of talent as a writer and was unlucky to be born in an era that was ruled by men. 

Léa des Garets as George Sand

Léa breathed life into her stance as an infinite energy that questioned a system that laid limitations on gender, gender roles, sexuality and practical freedom.

I found myself relating to George more as a woman who wore men’s clothing simply because she could. It’s definitely more freeing and cheaper on my skin, I feel more at peace with my body and it helped me redefine comfort as a woman. 

If I could have George at my dinner table scenario, I would definitely talk to her about how women wearing men’s clothing, or “looking like a man” doesn’t mean they want to be a man, it’s more fluid and colourful than that. Style has no gender if people realise their eyes can see more than just black and white. 

The same goes for Iniki who played the innocent companion/lover, Marie Dovral. I believe George was attracted to Marie’s pure feminine energy that she yearned to have herself. Iniki’s portrayal of Marie made me want to be best friends with her and tell her she deserves better as a girl’s girl. But Marie saw hope in George as the future for women and admired her deeply for that.

However, the complexities of life as a woman at the time held them back from exploring a lifetime of romance together. They reflected the same mission as advocates for women in the generations ahead, but the odds were against them at an age where women’s fingers were metaphorically chopped if they dared to raise a doubt against the system.

Léa and Iniki’s chemistry and purpose on stage weren’t the only bits that drew me in, they had humorous exchanges and physical comedy that made me grunt-laugh. They were just two young girls at the end of the day trying to figure out the meaning of life, we’ve all been there. 

When it comes to humour and seamless transitions between characters, I’ve never seen anyone do it like Conor Dumbrell. He played all of the male roles and there were at least five or six of them. That’s a lot! 

Léa des Garets and Conor Dumbrell

He truly let his multiple personalities shine, it’s beyond me to even fathom how he pulled off such versatility, like it was no big deal. I had a grin on my face whenever he appeared on stage. I was mystified and hypnotised, he turned out to be the sticky notes on the pages of a book that I will go back to read again and again as the best parts. 

There was Q&A session at the end of the show where I heard Rute Costa talk about her vision as a director for GEORGE. She has a very profound way of thinking that proves she was the catalyst that curated such a harmonious team.

A silent leader who tailored the strings of a vintage set, chic wardrobe, intimate lighting and a gripping background score. But more importantly, she is their biggest cheerleader as she watches the play every night like she’s watching it for the first time.

The production team of this play carefully orchestrated every move in a manner that was both melancholic and serene. When you separate each element to bits, you will see the heart in every detail and the genuine love amongst the colleagues. 

Lèa des Garets and Conor Dumbrell

Conor surprised me with his humble attitude as he explained what this play means to him, and how unique it feels to him. He wilfully plays the “little man” roles, which is such an interesting parallel to how the world has changed now where men like him no longer find false pleasure in false power.

And Iniki who embodies a very poised and elegant aura spoke of how rewarding it has been to be part of such an essential story. She stitched Marie to my heart is so many ways, her skills as an actress are paving paths that she may not see now, but will see very soon.

After the Q&A session, I hopped down the stairs to go meet Léa who is the loveliest soul I’ve ever met. I also had the pleasure of talking to Conor and members of the production team who radiate such warmth and joy that I just didn’t want to leave.

Unrealistically, I didn’t want the play to end. Realistically, it was a play that left an everlasting impression in my mind. They are an astounding team of time travellers who gently remind us that our souls are timeless, the issues we face are unjust and that art will always be the answer.

They are currently in their last week of shows at the Omnibus theatre in Clapham Common, London.

Go here https://www.omnibus-clapham.org/george-2/ to book your tickets now and witness this team of revolutionaries in their element to expand your mind.

Here’s a peak at my interview with Léa des Garets who talks about her creative process leading up to the play, her wonder colleagues and her as a incredibly talented artist and human being.

Categories
People

The ‘Of Mice And Women’ book launch

Anthea Turner and Wendy Turner at their book launch, 'Of Mice And Women'
Steven Smith scampers along to the book launch of “Raining Strawberries at Wimbledon “by Wendy Turner Webster and Anthea Turner.
Steven Smith with Anthea Turner and Wendy Turner

In 1937 John Steinbeck classic American novel “Of Mice and Men” debuted.  

Not quite in the same genre, this year animal activist and glamours television presenter 57-year-old, Wendy Turner and her sister legendary presenter turned businesswoman 64-year-old, Anthea Turner have become children’s authors and share their mice.

Last year saw the publication of their first joint book “The King’s Coronation and the Kohinoor Diamond. Published by Splendid Publications https://www.splendidpublications.co.uk

The tale features mice that live in the Underground station. The book has become a run-away success and received mass critical acclaim.  

Last night saw the launch of their second book “Raining Strawberries at Wimbledon “Held at the stylish Kings Road boutique “White Coco”

https://www.splendidpublications.co.uk/store/p/coming-in-june-2024

Despite it feeling like the hottest day of the year fans of their books, friend’s and celebrities joined the ladies for an evening of Fizz, strawberries and treats and the ladies were happy to sign books. On hand was award winning journalist and ‘Loose Women’, Jane Moore.

Anthea Turner with friend award winning journalist and ‘Loose Woman’ Jane Moore

Girl about town Lizzie Cundy, presenter Vanessa Feltz, screen writer celebrity author Samantha Lee Howe plus, celebrity hairstylist Nicky Clarke debonair Gary Webster were among the crowd.

Making a special appearance was the mice themselves hand crafted by Smelly cat design. They were a huge hit and there was no need to call for pest control for these crocheted replaces of the book’s mice. Designer Kaela owner of Smelly Cat Design tells me it takes a day to make each mouse.

Kayla with one of her crotched mice making a special appearance https://www.smellycatdesigns.com

The latest book tells the story of huge excitement at Buckingham Palace when King Charles and Queen Camilla receive a surprise invite from Princess Kate; to watch her and Prince William play Andy Murray and Heather Watson at a charity match on Wimbledon’s famous Centre Court! 

Meanwhile, Underneath the Underground, little Elly Archer is a mouse on a mission – to sneak over to Wimbledon for the Ladies’ Final without the adults finding out.

And Harry the Hero Rat has a secret plan too… he’s heard that juicy red strawberries are eaten there by the tonne, a perfect opportunity to gather up the leftovers and make strawberry jam for all the mice on the London Underground! 

But things go messily wrong when Kate and William discover Harry’s stash of strawberries… and Charles and Camilla find themselves serving for the match instead! But will they win…?!

I, for one am a huge fan of the books and cannot wait to see it transferred to the screen. 

Just back from winning at the Cannes Film Festival, Samantha Lee Howe

Grab your copy at: https://www.splendidpublications.co.uk/store/p/coming-in-june-2024

And if you fancy the clothes you see, go to: https://www.whitecoco.co.uk

Categories
Culture

Mamma Mia we all need a little ABBA right now

ABBA 'Thank You For The Music' a celebration at Spiritland Royal Festival Hall, London
Steven Smith gets his dancing shoes on and reviews ABBA Voyage
Yes, we certainly need a tonic right now for all. Prices are going through the roof and with a summer of elections it is going to be season of discontent.

What we need to take our minds off things is something that, long after you watched it, leaves you with a smile and lifts you. That is why entertainment was so important during the war and let’s face it, we are all battling every day.

“If you can make people laugh you give them a little vacation.” Winston Churchill. 

What needs to be prescribed is ABBA Voyage at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. For weeks before I went to see this immersive experience, terribly gifted writers and those in the arts seemed to struggle to vocalise what they had seen.  

But whatever it was, rave reviews and statements like “The best night of my life” were being posted all over social media.

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As I walked the fifteen minutes from Stratford station through the Olympic Park certainly no one ruined the surprise.

On your journey you are confronted by a sea of people steeped in ABBA Hysteria, many dressed as their heroes: Agnetha Falskog, Bjorn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson and Anni-FridLyngstad.

Approaching the actual arena (specially made for the show), even if you’re not an ABBA fan, you’re not human if you’re not starting to smile a little. It is as if everyone has taken a happy pill. Even the security and arena staff are very friendly. 

Safely inside, the excitement and energy was accelerating to the level of an explosion, as if your eyes were not able to take any more of this visual feast of the actual arena and those that paid to come see the show.

Your brain goes straight into explode mode when the lights dim and the Swedish forest screen lifts and four virtual ABBAtars take to the stage. So convincing is the entire thing I was left breathless for a moment as I was not sure what was real and what was not. A little like the “The Houses of Parliament”. 

ABBA last played in London for seven nights in 1979. I promise you truly it could not have been better than this. Stunning light affects dazzle the 3000 capacity room. A very much real 10-piece band dazzle the filled room.

This is so real they even have short interlude videos for the band to change. Andersson, Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus and Anni-Frid Lyngstad danced across the giant stage, embraced each other.

They laughed about their 1974 Eurovision outfits and the UK giving them zero points. When they appeared in huge proportions on the big screens they had the mildest plasticine quality, but otherwise they were astonishingly real.

They did most of the hits, of course, and the best two from last year’s surprise comeback album. As you would expect, the arena erupted when “Dancing Queen” was performed.

 Just as you thought there were no more surprises left, ABBA walks on as they are now, as they did on opening night. I think it might have been holograms a few weeks in.

For days afterwards this extraordinary experience had me smiling. God knows we all need that right now. There is only one problem with prescribing ABBA Voyage to everyone. The price this venture needs to rake in is £140 million to break even, with some tickets at £195.

“Money, Money, Money” it is rich man’s show. Dance floor tickets at £50 are more affordable but sell like hot seats. To be honest I never sat down for long enough that night, being a real “Dancing Queen”. 

It is fast becoming a world of advanced technology. Just think, with the ABBA voyage, we can not only tell our grand kids how good some bands were, we can actually show them, and dear old dame Elton can take a rest. 

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