Latest news with #Alderson
Scotsman
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Edinburgh Festival Fringe in danger of becoming 'one monologue festival' due to soaring costs
Sign up to our Arts and Culture newsletter, get the latest news and reviews from our specialist arts writers Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... The head of a major Edinburgh Festival Fringe venue has warned the event is in danger of becoming a 'one monologue festival' due to the soaring costs of performing in the Scottish capital. Speaking on Thursday at the launch of Love the Fringe, a cross-venue membership scheme created to attract financial support to the festival, Pleasance director Anthony Alderson insisted 'we need to re-examine the [Fringe] model" as artists scale back shows due to affordability. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad He warned it had "never been more expensive to bring a show to the Fringe" and said producers were bringing smaller casts, cutting the length of runs and had "less technical ambition" because of the rising costs of accommodation in the city. Mr Alderson, who revealed he had got his first job at the Fringe when he was 15 - having lied about his age - warned 'people are swapping production values for somewhere to sleep'. He said: 'It has never been more expensive to bring work to the Fringe. Costs have soared - accommodation, travel, marketing, everything. And something has to give. We have to re-examine the model. Anthony Alderson warned performing at the Fringe is becoming too expensive, | EdFest 'We're seeing more shows, but shorter runs. Smaller casts, less technical ambition. People are swapping production values for somewhere to sleep. We're losing job opportunities for emerging talent, both on and off stage. If we're not careful, we'll become a one-person monologue festival. That's not good for artists. That's not good for audiences. And it's not good for this city.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Mr Alderson added: 'This isn't just entertainment. It's cultural identity. And yes - it's getting harder to sustain. Pleasance director Anthony Alderson | Contributed 'Culture is our soft power. If we want to push back against populism and division, the arts are one of our best hopes. This isn't something we add on to life — this is life. It's the fabric of a healthy society. Lose that and we lose something essential. Big stadium concerts at Murrayfield might be exciting — but they miss the point.' Mr Alderson called on local businesses to support the Fringe. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Anthony Alderson is director of the Pleasance. | EdFest He said: 'That's why we launched Love the Fringe - because this work matters. And it needs to be supported - properly. Funded, respected. But by whom? 'We're calling on local businesses - you benefit from the Fringe, you have a stake in its future. The city's hotels, bars, taxis and restaurants flourish every August. So let's not take this for granted. Let's invest in the artists who make it all possible. The success of the Fringe is the success of Edinburgh.' Mr Alderson also called for more state financial support, particularly from Arts Council England. The Fringe Society earlier this year was given multi-year funding from Scottish Government-funded arts body Creative Scotland. He said: 'International support is flowing in. Countries around the world recognise the global value of this festival. But one country is noticeably absent: England. Where is Arts Council England in all of this? Why is the nation that benefits most from this platform not stepping up to help sustain it?' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Love the Fringe, launched last year, was created to boost visibility for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, champion artists and offer a win-win model for both audiences and performers.
The Herald Scotland
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
Edinburgh's one-person show warning over Fringe costs crisis
Mr Alderson warned that Edinburgh was in danger of being left with a festival of "monologues" without a rethink over support from the event from the city council and local businesses. Read more: He suggested that performers were 'swapping production values for somewhere to sleep' when it came to deciding what to prioritise their Fringe spending on. Mr Alderson also warned that there were declining opportunities - on and off stage - for emerging talent to break through at the festival, which will mark its 80th anniversary in 2027. This year's Fringe line-up is on the track to be the third biggest in the history of the Fringe, which dates back to 1947, in terms of the number of shows in the line-up. That has gone up from 3317 to 3352 since last year, while are three more venues in the 2025 line-up than in 2024. However the overall number of performances has dropped from 51,446 to 49,521 in the space of 12 months and is down more than 10,000 on the biggest Fringe to date, in 2019, the year before the pandemic shut down the festival. Mr Alderson, who was speaking as the biggest Fringe venues launched their annual joint marketing campaign, said it was 'miraculous' that the festival was able to go ahead every year. He said this was down to artists taking the 'brave' decision to 'risk their time, their money and their heart' to put their work in front of audiences. He suggested it was wrong to measure the success of the Fringe by the size of its programme, adding: 'What's happening behind the scenes tells a different story.' He said: 'It has never been more expensive to bring work to the Fringe. Costs have soared -accommodation, travel, marketing, everything. And something has to give. We have to re-examine the model. "We're seeing more shows, but shorter runs. Smaller casts. Less technical ambition. People are swapping production values for somewhere to sleep. "We're losing job opportunities for emerging talent, both on and off stage. If we're not careful, we'll become a one-person monologue festival. That's not good for artists. That's not good for audiences. And it's not good for this city. "And yet - despite it all - artists still come. This year, we'll see work from across the globe. Work that moves us, that surprises us, that makes us laugh, cry, fall in love. That pushes boundaries, challenges assumptions, and reflects who we are and who we want to be. 'This isn't just entertainment. It's cultural identity. And it's getting harder to sustain. 'Not because we lack talent or vision. But because of cost. The cost of being here, of producing work, of reaching audiences. It's becoming unsustainable. 'We may be a small country, but we have enormous potential. Culture is our soft power. If we want to push back against populism and division, the arts are one of our best hopes. 'This festival dares. It provokes. It heals. It makes us see each other more clearly. This isn't something we add on to life—this is life. It's the fabric of a healthy society. Lose that and we lose something essential.' Mr Alderson suggested the city council was making it harder and more expensive to put on the Fringe and called for local businesses in Edinburgh to show more support for the festival. He added: "The city's hotels, bars, taxis, and restaurants flourish every August. So let's not take this for granted. Let's invest in the artists who make it all possible. The success of the Fringe is the success of Edinburgh. "The venues, the Fringe Society, the city council, Edinburgh University - we need to work together. Artists need clarity, simplicity, and support. Not bureaucracy and barriers."
Yahoo
07-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
50 Actually-Good Tinder Bio Ideas to Help Your Profile Stand Out
Think of your Tinder bio as your dating app elevator pitch—a quick and dirty explanation of who you are and what your vibe is. In an era where dating burnout is high and meeting someone compatible isn't always easy, nailing a good Tinder bio can be a super efficient and low-stakes way (which is key here, minimum effort maximum results!) to bring in matches who can pick up what you're putting down. And all it takes is a few authentic sentences! Today's Tinder profile layout allows for 500 characters in your bio, so depending on how wordy you want to get, you only really have space for three-to-four sentences. If your dating goal is to find a partner, the best way to use that limited space is by being authentic and honest about who you are and what you're looking for. 'Your bio is a chance to showcase your personality, interests, and values, giving others a glimpse into who you are beyond your profile pictures,' says relationship expert J essica Alderson, founder of So Syncd. You don't want to make it too intense, either—write it out the way you actually talk and try to keep it light and welcoming, so potential matches get a taste of your personality before swiping right. According to Tinder's 2024 Year In Swipe Report, 45 percent of singles want someone friendly, loyal, and engaged. A good pro tip? Try to inject some of that energy into your first impression. 'Not only is authenticity attractive, but it also helps you connect with people who you are genuinely compatible with,' says Alderson. On that note, remember to steer clear of exaggerations, out-dated info, or anything else that isn't reflective of who you really are and what you're looking for today. If you're honest, the right person will be interested, trust. Not quite sure where to start? That's where we come in. We put together a list of 50 potential Tinder bios for you to draw inspo from or copy and paste, if one resonates. (And yes, these also work for other dating apps besides Tinder if you're putting your metaphorical eggs in multiple baskets.) Happy swiping! Straightforward Tinder Bios A coffee-loving [*insert what you do here*] looking for someone to fall for. Let's grab a cup? Big movie person, big spending-time-with-family person, big get-to-the-airport-three-hours-early person. Here for a long time, not just a good time. Looking for someone who feels the same! I love a connecting with new people over a good conversation. Ask me anything about craft beer and [*insert favorite band's*] discography. Digital nomad with a passion for learning about new cultures. Let's travel the world together! Funny Tinder Bios The best quality you can have as my boyfriend/girlfriend is being able to tell me what movie or show that one actor is from. Not from a family that runs 5Ks on holidays, FYI. Seeking something casual, like a life-altering love affair that forever shifts our understanding of the world and our place in it and makes us question the very nature of love itself. Again, nothing serious! We could talk to our therapists about each other. If you can't have an aside with me about the social dynamics of the party we're at, I'm not interested. Edgy Tinder Bios Sorry, but I actually don't care that much about your dog. We could ruin each other's lives together. Looking for someone who will never, ever suggest we go on a hiking date. I'm just looking for someone to ruin my life for me so I don't have to do it myself. When I say I'm looking for a 'partner in crime,' I actually mean it. Your next mistake. Conversation-Starting Tinder Bios Which Taylor Swift era are you currently in? Fill in the blank: Together we could… Seeking: New songs for my commute. Hit me with the best from your playlist. Things I have firm opinions on (in no particular order): Looking at the menu ahead of time before a date, Apple Music, and dill pickles. (Or, you know, whatever specific things *you* have strong opinions on.) 16. If you were a breakfast food, what would you be? (I'm bottomless mimosas, obviously.) hot Tinder Bios I like it dirty—my martini, that is. My teachers used to tell me I was a pleasure to have in class. My exes tell me I was a pleasure to have in bed. Some call it a slut era, I call it a lifestyle. Made ya look. Orally fixated. Confident Tinder Bios The reason you're about to delete this app. Seducer of men, lover of none. Don't swipe right unless you've been to therapy, please & thanks. Warning: Having me as a girlfriend is not for the weak. Your friends will love me. Tinder Bios That Hint at What You Are (And Aren't) Looking For Literally just trying to go to a damn pumpkin patch this fall, ngl. Seeking an Irish Exit buddy for parties. Not looking for a soulmate; just a short-lived, romantically ambiguous fling that leaves us both with minimal trauma and at least one good memory. Literally WTF is a situationship? I'm trying to grow old together and die in each other's arms—is that too much to ask? If this doesn't work out, at least we'll both gain an Instagram Story viewer forever. Tinder Bios That Hint at What You're Like as A Person Will _______ from the passenger seat of your car. (e.g., point out cows, queue the next song, handle the Google Maps directions, gawk at sunsets, sing distractingly, etc.) One thing about me is I'm pretty much always down for a sweet treat. I have a 4.9 Uber Rating, NBD. Really good at picking movie theater seats. I'll try anything once: sashimi, pickleball, even that movie from your Letterboxd. Meetup-Ready Tinder Bios On a quest to find the best bagel in the city; point me in the right direction? MFK: Chili's, Applebee's, Cheesecake Factory [*or any restaurants of your choice*]. First date idea: You come over and fall in love with me. Going to Trader Joe's; want anything? Take me for grocery-store sushi or don't waste my time. Cute Tinder Bios Let's be cute in a way that makes all our single friends hate us. Allow me to put the 'she' in your shenanigans. Let's delete this app together. Boyfriend/girlfriend applications now open: Inquire within. Come vibe with me? Creating a stellar Tinder bio is a lot like crafting the ultimate yearbook quote—because, if we're all being honest with ourselves, high school was pretty much a 24/7 quest to impress our crushes, and what are any of us really doing on dating apps if not trying to come across as cool and fun and witty and, well, dateable, to our future crushes? Your dating app bio is also similar to a graduation quote in that you don't have much space, you want it to reflect who you are, and you do not (emphasis on do not) want it to come off as cheesy. Not that it's something anyone should be stressing about or anything, but learning how to write a good dating app bio really is a skill worth mastering, because, hi, yes, your bio is a Very! Important! part of your profile. According to relationship expert Jessica Alderson, founder of So Syncd, a dating app that matches users based on personality type, a well-crafted bio not only helps you stand out, but also increases your chances of finding a meaningful connection. 'While physical attraction factors into the equation for most people regarding dating, long-term compatibility goes beyond just looks,' says Alderson. 'Your bio is a chance to showcase your personality, interests, and values, giving others a glimpse into who you are beyond your profile pictures.' Hence why Aldereson says authenticity should be your first priority when crafting your Tinder bio. 'Not only is authenticity attractive, but it also helps you connect with people who you are genuinely compatible with,' she says. On that note, remember to steer clear of exaggerations, out-dated info, or anything else that isn't reflective of who you really are and what you're looking for. No lying! Alderson also suggests keeping it concise: 'Remember, you only have a few seconds to capture someone's attention on a dating app,' she says. 'So keep your bio short and make every word count. Think of it as a teaser that leaves people wanting to know more.' Last but not least, our final rule: Show don't tell. One of the most important tips for writing a good dating app bio is to showcase whatever qualities you're hoping to convey rather than just listing 'em out, says Alderson. Instead of stating you are 'fun' or 'outgoing,' show that you actually are those things by writing something fun and voicey in your bio. It's also good practice to update your bio regularly, so whether it's been a minute since you've switched things up or you're Tindering for the very first time, it's understandable if you've come across a little writer's block. Hi, that's where we come in with these 30+, Cosmo-approved dating app bios for your inspiration. Happy swiping! You Might Also Like
Daily Mail
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Ollie Watkins' fiancee Ellie Alderson shares pictures of her hen-do ahead of lavish wedding to Aston Villa and England star
Ollie Watkins fiancee Ellie Alderson has shared photos after partying with friends and family on her hen do as she prepares to marry the Aston Villa and England star. Alderson, who has been dating the Three Lions star since 2018, is expected to marry Watkins in the coming weeks. The 28-year-old took to Instagram to share photos from her hen do, which featured a mix of drinks and dancing. The celebrations included drinks at the May Fair Hotel and dinner at the South American restaurant Inca. Inca declares it offers diners a 'high-end' experience, with the restaurant designed around a central stage with live performers interacting with guests. The evening concluded at the restaurant's Luna Lounge, which is claimed to cater for high-energy parties. The private area features its own bar and DJ booth. Photos from the night included a sign featuring the words 'Drunk in Love, Mrs Watkins to be!', as well an embroidered veil reading 'Mrs Watkins'. Another image showed Alderson giving a nod to her future husband's stardom, after she was pictured dressed as a football. Earlier this year, Alderson travelled to Paris for 'exciting wedding planning' ahead of their big day. Alderson and Watkins got engaged last summer when the couple were on holiday in Italy. Watkins proposed to Alderson on a scenic trip to Lake Como, with the Aston Villa and England star revealing news of their engagement on social media by sharing photos with the caption 'Future wifey!! It was only right 21.07.24.' The proposal came a week after England suffered heartbreak in the Euro 2024 final, with the Three Lions falling short against Spain in the final. Watkins had played a key role in England's run to the final, netting a memorable last minute winner in their semi-final victory over the Netherlands. Alderson followed him to Germany amongst a host of other WAGs and was an avid supporter in the stands during the tournament. The couple first got together in 2018 and have seen their romance blossom ever since in-line with Watkins' rise to becoming one of the Premier League's most clinical goalscorers. They live together in Birmingham and have two children - Amara, three, and two-year-old Marley. The couple are now set to tie the knot at what will likely be a glitzy wedding ceremony. The wedding is likely to follow an important end to the season for Watkins on the pitch with Aston Villa. The forward will be looking to help Aston Villa to bounce back from their FA Cup semi-final defeat to Crystal Palace on Saturday. Aston Villa remain in the hunt to secure Champions League football next season, but currently lie seventh in the Premier League, three points shy of fifth placed Chelsea. Unai Emery's side will conclude the campaign with matches against Fulham, Bournemouth, Tottenham and Man United, with Watkins likely to play a key role following an injury to on-loan forward Marcus Rashford. Watkins will hope to be involved in the England squad for their World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Senegal on June 7 and 10, before the summer break. Aston Villa's top scorer could face a crucial summer after recently admitting to have been left 'fuming' having been left out of the starting line-up for their Champions League quarter-final against PSG earlier this month. Watkins had been the subject of a January bid from his boyhood club Arsenal, but the offer was snubbed by Aston Villa.
Yahoo
30-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Mum died after flu or Covid diagnosis
Medical professionals believed a mother-of-three was suffering with flu or Covid before she died hours later of another viral infection, an inquest heard. Charlotte Alderson, 34, of Beck Row, Suffolk, had been vomiting and complained of excruciating headaches before she died on 21 December 2022. An emergency medical technician (EMT) who saw her at the scene spoke to a GP on the phone, and both concluded she did not need to go to hospital. After her death, it was revealed Mrs Alderson had group A streptococcus, a common type of bacteria. The inquest, at Suffolk Coroner's Court in Ipswich, heard Mrs Alderson initially began to feel unwell on 15 December with a cold and earache, and continued to feel this way for several more days. She was prescribed a spray to treat ear infections but her condition did not improve. Her husband Stuart Alderson, who sat with Mrs Alderson's parents alongside a large image of her, gave evidence during the inquest. He said he called 999 on 21 December after his wife had been up all night vomiting and with diarrhoea, saying she lacked "energy, which is really unusual". Mr Alderson said he was told by one of the ambulance crew that there was a 14-hour wait at hospital, and that all that would happen there anyway was that she would have a blood test. "To my mind, I thought, 'Well if you think she's OK, we're happy to accept that decision not to go'," Mr Alderson told the court. He said he had noticed his wife's lips had a blue tinge to them. Morgan Burt, an EMT who attended to Mrs Alderson, said she had not seen the blue tinge and that if she had, that would have been treated as a "high priority". The inquest jury heard a recording of a phone call between Ms Burt and Dr Emma Ayers, who was the duty GP at the time. Ambulance staff could call GPs for advice on patients' well-being and potential treatments, but Dr Ayers told the court that system was no longer in place. In the audio recording, Dr Ayers said Mrs Alderson could be suffering from a viral infection and that she should drink plenty of fluids and take a Covid test. In court, Dr Ayers said that when she said it could be a viral infection "that was only half of the sentence; I was thinking this could be bacterial and she could be septic". Dr Ayers said she was not told during the call that Mrs Alderson had blue lips, and that had she been, she would have advised that she be taken directly to hospital as an emergency. She said if she could change her advice that day, she would have invited Mrs Alderson to an appointment that afternoon. The inquest continues. Follow Suffolk news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X. Mum died after advice not to go to hospital - inquest Suffolk Coroner's Court
