international

INTERVIEW: JAMAAL FIELDS-GREEN (MJ the Musical)

Interview

New York’s Jamaal Fields-Green took over the role of Michael Jackson in the smash hit London production of MJ the Musical 14 January, 2025.

— You’ve played Michael Jackson in MJ the Musical on Broadway, on the US national tour, and now on the West End. Does it feel different performing in London? Or is it really just the same as performing the show anywhere?

I’d say it’s a bit of both. There are actually slight differences in blocking across the companies. Thankfully, audiences all over the world have the same reaction to the show — the love and enjoyment is always there. But where London differs is the reservation the audience has during the show: it’s different from what I’m used to, but I like it. It allows us in the company to further engulf ourselves into the world we’re creating.

— What drew you to this particular role?

It’s Michael Jackson! Honestly, this role allows me to really exercise the ability to be a triple threat. I have to sing, act, and dance at a high level. Getting the chance to do that, while also leading a show, was an opportunity I couldn’t miss out on.

— What are the challenges of performing this show in London, versus performing in New York, or the rest of America? What do you miss?

Really, I would say just the location and the culture… being in a new country. It didn’t take me long to get used to the reserved audiences. Getting to stay in one spot is nice. I hadn’t had that in a while. Other than that, everything else is about the same.

— What’s next for Jamaal Fields-Green?

The world! I have a lot of plans and goals set for myself while I’m here in London. I want to do a play while I’m here, after my time with MJ is over. Between acting, singing and dancing, acting has always been the one I’ve felt most at home with. I have a lot of music on the way — I release music under the name “J. Hasan“. I recently started working on my newest short film, and we’re aiming to shoot it this summer. TV and film is another big thing I’ve been chasing for a while. Overall, I’m looking to grow was an artist, and further cement myself as a force in the industry.

MJ the Musical is playing at the Prince Edward Theatre 6 March 2024 – 13 September 2025.

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TALK: BURGEONING ART SCENE IN BANGLADESH | London, Revolution Gallery

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The newly opened Revolution Gallery in Central London is a groundbreaking art venue, the first in the UK dedicated to representing the very best artists from Bangladesh. This includes legendary figures such as Zainul Abedin, Rashid Choudhury, and Quamrul Hassan — as well as new talents like Rakib Alam Shanto — bridging the gap between traditional and modern Bangladeshi art.

Revolution Gallery is hosting a talk on the bourgeoning art scene in Bangladesh, Wednesday 10 July, 6:30pm, offering attendees a unique glimpse into the vibrant art culture of Bangladesh.

Tasleema Alam and Nelson Ferreira, both renowned artists, recently returned from Bangladesh where they served as visiting lecturers in Fine Arts at Dhaka University. Their experiences have provided them with firsthand insight into the burgeoning talent emerging from this culturally rich nation. They will be sharing their observations and experiences during the talk, shedding light on the current explosion of artistic talent in Bangladesh.

Tasleema Alam, a distinguished expert in Islamic Art and the owner of Traditional Ateliers, has an impressive portfolio of collaborations with prestigious institutions like Turquoise Mountain, ITHRA and South Bank. She is the first Bangladeshi female artist to collaborate on Royal Commissions for HM King Charles III, in honour of his coronation, further underlining her esteemed status in the art community.

Nelson Ferreira (another Royal Commissioned artist) is known for his mastery in classical drawing and painting techniques; he is a visiting lecturer at several universities and art museums globally. His expertise is further recognized by his teaching engagements: including teaching Walt Disney and ILM artists. Since 2022 alone, his artworks have been seen by about 300,000 people at exhibitions in UK, Portugal, Italy, Nepal, Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh.

This talk presents a rare opportunity for art enthusiasts, collectors, and academics to gain insight into the evolving landscape of Bangladeshi art and to engage with two insightful voices in the field. Attendees will have the chance to explore the Revolution Gallery’s collection and witness the confluence of heritage and innovation that discerns Bangladeshi art as a rising tiger within the umbrella of South Asia.

Date: Wednesday, 10 July 2024
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Revolution Gallery, 12a Little Portland St, London, W1W 8BJ (Oxford Circus)

Follow Revolution Gallery online and on Instagram. 

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LIFT FESTIVAL 2024 | London, multiple venues

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LIFT, London’s bi-annual international festival of theatre, brings joyful, daring and unforgettable theatre from around the world to London, using the whole of the city as the stage.  Every two years, LIFT presents a festival full of bold and relevant culture, international perspectives, and thought-provoking performances. The festival’s adventurous-ness is theatrical yeast (The Guardian, 2018), meaning LIFT has done more to influence the growth and adventure of English theatre than any other organisation (Mark Rylance).  Whether it’s a much-loved venue, iconic landmark or unsung corner of London, LIFT gathers Londoners around incredible art.

LIFT’s mission is to create powerful, invigorating experiences that: challenge artistic, political and social conventions; champion artist advancement at home and abroad; lead sustainable internationalism; celebrate and connect London to the world.  This year is no different, with eight exciting shows happening all over London throughout the months of June and July 2024.

LISTINGS

The Land Acknowledgement or As You Like It – London premiere
Southbank Centre- Purcell Room at Queen Elizabeth Hall
5 – 7 June, 8pm
8 – 9 June, 3pm

Democracy From Where I Stand
The Dutch Church, City of London
8 June, 7pm

Bat Night Market – World Premiere
Science Gallery London
11 June – 14 June, 7pm & 15 June, 2pm
BSL performance 15 June

L’Homme Rare – UK Premiere
Southbank Centre: Queen Elizabeth Hall
12 – 13 June, 7.30pm
Post show talk: 12 June
Audio Description available: 13 June

The Trials and Passions of Unfamous Women – World Premiere
Brixton House
14 June – 22 June 19:30
19 & 22 June 2pm
Press night: 17 June

Bacchae: Prelude to a Purge – UK Premiere
Sadler’s Wells Theatre
18 June – 19 June, 19:30
Post show talk: Tuesday 18 June

L’Animale – UK Premiere
Old Bailey, City of London
22 – 23 June 2pm & 4pm

ECHO (Every Cold-Hearted Oxygen) – World Premiere
The Royal Court Theatre
13 July – 27 July 6.30pm/7pm/7:30pm
Matinee performances: Sat 20 July & 27 July, 1.30 & Thurs 25 July, 2.30
Press night: 17 July 7:00pm
Post show talk: 18 July
Captioned and Relaxed Performances – 18 July, 7:30pm & 27 July, 1:30pm

Book now for all eight shows at LIFT’s website, playing 5 June – 27 July 2024.

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THE MONGOL KHAN | London, Coliseum

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This lavish, large-scale production, with an ensemble of over 70 performers, has run for over 100 performances in Mongolia, and is now playing at London’s largest theatre for two weeks. It’s the first time any large-scale professional Mongolian production has been performed here: a testament to 60 years of Anglo-Mongolian relations and cultural exchange. Based on historical events, the show explores Mongolian culture and history through music, dance, dialogue and puppetry, with elaborate sets and costumes, all inspired by traditional nomadic culture and tradition.

The Mongol Khan was originally written in 1998 by renowned Mongolian writer and poet Lkhagvasuren Bavuu, and then revived in April 2022 at the Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Drama, to great acclaim, by Mongolian director Hero Baatar. The production has taken inspiration from historical events, archaeological findings, traditional nomadic dances, and the music of the ancient Hun culture of Central Asia from the Hunnu Empire period.

The production’s director, Hero Baatar, says: “Presenting a Mongolian drama in England is a significant historical event, and a unique cultural exchange: an opportunity to bridge cultural gaps and share the beauty of Mongolian theatre with an international audience. It’s a testament to the power of theatre and storytelling to transcend borders and bring people from different cultures together.”

Bordered by China and Russia, Mongolia is one of the world’s best kept secrets as a travel destination, with a vast unspoilt wilderness and extremely welcoming people. The Mongol Khan serves as an introduction to this country and its history to give would-be travellers a taste of the culture and history.

Playing at the London Coliseum, 17 November – 3 December 2023.

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INTERVIEW: JIN HAO LI | Glasgow, BBC New Comedy Awards 2023

Interview

— Congratulations on winning the semi-finals of the BBC New Comedy Awards 2023. How did that feel?

Not to be gross, but the biggest takeaway was genuinely the friends I made. We all agreed to do this bit: when they announce the winner, if it isn’t you; bury your head in your hands in disgust and disappointment. Everyone committed. It was the funniest thing they filmed that night, and meant a lot more than if they just clapped for me.

— For someone who’s never seen you before, how would you describe your stand-up comedy style?

I would say it’s a warm hug that lasts too long.

— How did you get into stand-up?

The first live stand up show I saw was back home in Singapore. I was wearing my army uniform at the time and sat in the front row. I absolutely deserved getting roasted. But the biggest feeling that night was, if this is the standard that is acceptable to face the public, there is nothing to be afraid of.  So I did it the following week and once you start, you can’t really stop.

— What’s next for Jin Hao Li?

I’m building towards my first hour, which has to be excellent and immortalised. I’m working on two scripted projects at the moment: a sketch show, and a series that I’m writing with my friend Iris, about Chinese actors living in London.

Watch the BBC New Comedy Awards 2023 on BBC iPlayer.

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OPENING WEEKEND | London, Southbank Centre

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It’s back to school! Come to the Southbank Centre for an amazing programme Thu 21 – Sun 24 Sep 2023, and enjoy a multi-buy discount for this classical music mini music festival. Classical music is an integral part of the Southbank Centre, and the “Opening Weekend” will celebrate the full breadth of the art form today.

Toks Dada, Head of Classical Music at the Southbank Centre, explains the success of the Southbank Centre’s “Opening Weekend” last year: “Our goal is to create as many ways for as many different people as possible to experience this wonderful art form called classical music, building on the success of our first Opening Weekend last year – during which we welcomed over 10,000 people across our spaces, many of whom visited the Southbank Centre for the very first time.”

The weekend will feature two major choral works, with Resident Orchestra the Philharmonia Orchestra, performing Verdi’s Requiem (21 Sept, RFH), and Resident Orchestra the London Philharmonic Orchestra performing Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 with soprano Sally Matthews, mezzo-soprano Christine Rice and the London Philharmonic Choir (23 Sept, RFH).

Former Southbank Centre Resident Artist and star of 2022/23, Víkingur Olafsson, arrives in London launching his global Goldberg Variations tour (22 Sept, RFH).

Returning Resident Artists, Manchester Collective, make their season debut with a double bill beginning with Different Trains, featuring work by Barber, Steve Reich, Cassandra Miller and a world premiere by Jasmin Kent Rodgman co-commissioned by the Southbank Centre and Manchester Collective (22 Sept, QEH).

They will then move into the Queen Elizabeth Hall Foyer for a classical-inspired club night featuring music from titans of minimalism including Steve Reich and Philip Glass.

The Opening Weekend will also feature organist Carol Williams in Mad Rush (23 Sept, RFH) with a programme of organ classics, jazz arrangements, and Williams’ own compositions.

The Multi-Story Orchestra perform RPS award-winning The Endz (23 Sept, QEH), telling the story of two friends torn apart by gang violence in London, and a new version of immersive Living Programme Notes (24 Sept, Clore Ballroom) providing a deep dive into classical music for young people and their families.

The Philharmonia Orchestra appears a second time during the weekend with a programme including Shostakovich’s Concerto for piano, trumpet & strings featuring pianist Seong-Jin Cho and the Philharmonia’s Principal Trumpet Jason Evans (24 Sept, RFH).

The Hermes Experiment make their Opening Weekend debut (24 Sept, PUR), including a new work by composer Elaine Mitchener, commissioned by the Southbank Centre.

Lastly, violinist Patricia Kopatchinskaja, one of the new Resident Artists for 2023/24, will close the weekend (24 Sept, QEH) with her international trio featuring clarinettist Reto Bieri, and pianist Polina Leschenko, with a programme including a new work composed by Kopatchinskaja herself.

Playing across the Southbank Centre Thu 21 – Sun 24 Sep 2023.

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REFLECTIONS | London, Anna Steinhouse Fine Art Gallery

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Following a diverse showcase of work at the International Biennale of Alentejo in Portugal, International Contemporary Artist Group (ICAG) is back with their London debut exhibition: “Reflections” at Anna Steinhouse Fine Art Gallery, Primrose Hill, from Saturday the 16th to Sunday the 24th of September, 2023.

Showcasing pieces including painting, drawing, photography, and multimedia, “Reflections” explores each artist’s personal connection with nature, as well as the intricate threads that connect us to our environment.  30% of proceeds from sales are being donated to ICAG’s partner, prominent environmental charity “Client Earth”.

From the detailed work of Nazira Bibi, which uses techniques gleaned from Indian Miniature painting and Islamic geometry, to the sensitive abstract paintings of Vivi Ximenes, this exhibition confidently explores the power of nature as a refuge and point of reflection for humanity, while underscoring its growing fragility, as a resource requiring ever more careful stewardship.

Lucille Dweck’s “Wonder in the Water” transports us to a magical moment of serene contemplation, where a woman in a leopard-print bikini becomes enmeshed in the shimmering light that surrounds her.  Across Dweck’s work, a rich colour palette and mesmerising mark-making invites viewers to reflect on the magical quality of moments in nature.

Karen Wood’s “Ocean Reflections” captures the complex interplay between man-made structures and the unbounded fluidity of water, through the joyful mix of abstracted geometric shapes and industrial colour.

There’s something for just about everyone, including works absorbed in moments of natural serenity like Anna Steinhouse’s “Immersion” — or works that interrogate the nature of perception itself through sculptural multimedia techniques, like Martina Lang’s “Fantom Blues”.

“Reflections” at the Anna Steinhouse Fine Art Gallery is a celebration of art, nature, and the power of global collaboration.  Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the profound works of these international artists, all while supporting the important environmental initiatives of Client Earth.  Purchase a piece of art, and contribute to a brighter, more sustainable future for our planet.  Visit the gallery in Primrose Hill, and let “Reflections” inspire your own connection with the world around you.

For a full list of artists – see below:

Andrea Sargeant is a contemporary Anglo-Italian watercolourist known for her sensory atmospheric watercolours and Romantic dreamscapes, inspired by the peace and harmony of natural habitats.

Anna Steinhouse-Kandelaki is a London-based artist born in Georgia. She focuses on portraiture, individual life stories, and compositions with the figure in space.

Francesca Arcidiaco, originally from Sicily, explores Western and Japanese aesthetics in her meditative portraits, bridging cultures through her art.

Karen Wood draws inspiration from industrial color, geometric shapes, and lines. Her work captures hidden spaces within structures and in this exhibition explores the relationship between land and water.

Lucille Dweck creates images of the natural world, reflecting the magical, spiritual aspect of being immersed in nature. Her paintings have been described as ‘romantic’ and full of love for nature – though figurative they simultaneously show the marks and brushstrokes used.

Martina Lang explores tactile shapes through light and shade. Her work challenges viewers’ perception, questioning gravity and dimensions within the frame.

Nelson Ferreira specializes in combining classical technique and contemporary materials. His art captures the spirit of the sitter and aims to soothe and provoke contemplation.

Sara Taukolonga draws inspiration from classical drawing and painting techniques. Her artwork explores local people and events, creating emotive narratives.

Vivi Ximenes creates a visual dialogue through abstract painting, exploring imperfect beauty and connecting with the subconscious.

Nazira Bibi‘s work is inspired by Islamic geometric art, combining traditional materials and techniques to explore the underlying order in patterns and nature.

“Reflections” runs at Anna Steinhouse Fine Art Studio 16 – 24 September 2023.

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LANG LANG: THE DISNEY BOOK | London, Royal Albert Hall

Recommended

Global superstar pianist Lang Lang returns to London’s Royal Albert Hall, for an unforgettable evening of music celebrating the upcoming centenary of The Walt Disney Company, which was founded in 1923. Lang Lang’s 55-minute album featuring new solo and orchestral arrangements of classic Disney tunes was released in September earlier this year, to the delight of his fans worldwide.

At this celebratory event, Lang Lang is joined by the entire Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, to perform favourite melodies that span the Disney centenary – from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) and The Jungle Book (1967), to Beauty and the Beast (1991) and Encanto (2021). Lang Lang also draws on material from Disney’s iconic theme park attractions, like a solo theme and variations on “It’s a Small World”.

This enchanting musical journey offers the perfect half-term treat for young and old alike, with the magic of Disney brought to life by one of the world’s greatest pianists – alongside the sumptuous sound of a full symphony orchestra. It’s all part of Lang Lang’s aim to encourage the exploration of classical music.

With more guest artists still to be announced (on the album, Lang Lang partners with guest star singers like Andrea Bocelli and instrumentalists like Guo Gan), this promises to be one of the highlights of the Royal Albert Hall’s autumn calendar.

Tickets for Mon 24 Oct 2022 are available on the Royal Albert Hall’s website, priced £55.75 – £109.50.

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DITA VON TEESE | Monaco, Opéra Garnier

Recommended

46-year-old Dita Von Teese is the Queen of Burlesque; a household name known for the epitome of glamour and voluptuousness.

The American icon is currently touring internationally, hitting up such iconic venues as the sumptuously decorated Opéra Garnier of the Monte Carlo casino in Monaco, and the London Palladium.

Although known as a pioneer of Neo-Burlesque in the 1990s, Von Teese’s routines are highly influenced by the glamour of the 1930s and 1940s, including her showstopping signature act, featuring Von Teese bathing and splashing in a giant martini glass.

Performing alongside Dita (with her astonishing array of couture) are other bright stars from the world of Burlesque, including some seductive boylesque performers, guaranteeing pleasure for everyone.

Dita Von Teese is performing in Monaco for one night only, on 20 October 2018.

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