Latest news with #London-themed
Yahoo
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Drake And His Fans Have A 'F**k Kendrick' Moment At Wireless Festival
Drake took the stage on Saturday (July 12), for night two of the 2025 Wireless Festival in London, where fans at Finsbury Park made their allegiance loud and clear. Mid-performance, the crowd broke out into a chant of 'f**k Kendrick,' and instead of ignoring it, Drake embraced the moment. Turning to his longtime friend and security lead Chubbs, he responded, 'Grab me a shot. I'll drink to that.' The moment came shortly after Drake challenged the audience to 'name another artist' who could match his performance level — doubling down on his position in the ongoing rap battle between himself and K. Dot. Kendrick wasn't the only one to catch shade during Drake's set. The Toronto native also appeared to send a subtle message to NBA legend LeBron James by switching up the lyrics to his 2018 hit 'Nonstop.' Instead of the original line: 'How I go from 6 to 23 like I'm LeBron?' he rapped, 'How I go from 6 to 23, but not LeBron,' hinting at tension in their once-close friendship. The lyrical switch-up follows speculation sparked by Drake recently covering up his LeBron tattoo and replacing it with new ink honoring NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. After delivering an R&B-focused set on Friday (July 11), Drizzy shifted gears on Saturday with a London-themed performance that celebrated the U.K.'s rap scene. He brought out British rap heavyweights Skepta, Central Cee, and Dave, and made a bold declaration about London's place in Hip-Hop. 'Nobody can out-rap London — nobody,' he declared to the crowd. 'No disrespect to America. No disrespect to my country. But nobody can out-rap London rappers. This is the best. This is the highest level. This is what I aspire to be.' Drake headlined all three nights of this year's Wireless Festival July 11-13, which celebrated its 20th anniversary. More from Why Drake's Claim That UK Rappers Are Superior Lyricists Should Be Taken With A Grain Of Salt Kendrick Lamar's Music To Be Studied In New Course At Temple University Leon Thomas, BigXThaPlug, Popcaan, And More To Join Drake At 2025 Wireless Festival In London
Scotsman
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
I popped to Prague and it was alive with the sound of music
Marion Ainge pops to the stunning city of Prague for a cultural reset Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, 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... From an open window, we hear a tinkling piano accompanying the voice of a soprano practising her musical scales. On Prague's famous Charles Bridge, a lively jazz quartet entertains. And at legendary composer Dvorak's former home, in Nelahozeves, we're surrounded by the sounds of his internationally renowned New World Symphony which fills every room. In 1969, Neil Armstrong, commander of the Apollo 11 spaceship and first man on the moon, took a cassette recording of this symphony, composed in the United States, on his epic mission. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The rooftops of Prague | Marion Ainge It's around two hours by EasyJet airline from northern UK airports to Prague, known as the city of 1,000 spires. Situated in the heart of Czechia, the blend of music, history, culture and gastronomy attracts around eight million visitors every year. Aria Hotel garden | Marion Ainge Our base is the luxurious, aptly named-5-star boutique Hotel Aria sited in the Old Town, just minutes from Charles Bridge. Rooms are dedicated to a specific style of music, artist or composer and there are other musical touches - the top of the bar counter is designed to resemble a piano keyboard. The exquisite, Baroque-themed Unesco Heritage garden is a favourite setting for the most romantic of wedding photographs. Breakfast at the Hotel Aria is a symphony of delights! I manage to resist the creamy pastries to choose a bowl of sweet, fresh strawberries and a truffle oil omelet. The building of one of the oldest bridges in Europe, the Medieval, stone-arched Charles Bridge began in 1357 during the reign of King Charles lV and was completed in the early 15th century. At 516 metres long and almost 10 metres wide, it crosses the River Vltava from the Old Town to the castle, features 30 stone statues and is bordered by two towers. Pedestrianised, it's always buzzing with two-way walkers and is full of activity with musicians, street entertainers, stalls, painters and artists. In the city, it's also worth seeing the psychedelic, colour-splashed John Lennon Wall; Devil's Canal also known as Little Prague Venice and the London-themed pub, complete with red telephone box. Beethoven and Mozart are listed among the city's most famous visitors over the years. The Bedrich Smetana Museum, within a neo-Renaissance building on the river banks, explores the life and works of one of the most influential Czech composers. The top of the Old Town Hall Gothic tower affords panoramic views of the city and houses the famous Astronomical Clock. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Brno main square | Marion Ainge A two-hour journey takes us to Brno in south Moravia, a university city which boasts a vibrant gastronomy scene with trendy coffee shops and bars. In the great composer Janacek's former house, now a memorial, a violinist plays a selection of Janacek's 15 famous folk songs. This Brno is a very different one from the memory I have of a visit with one of my sons many years ago. It was Bastille Day when we came across husband and wife French patriots clad in late 17th century blue, white and red costumes, who carried a large French flag on a pole. They were celebrating the historical turning point of the French Revolution. Our newfound friends spoke no English, but in a moody cavern bar, the language barrier was crossed with mother and son's limited French. Czech liqueur, Becherovka helped us along as we waved the French flag. In the historic town of Jihlava, an exhibition tour in Gustav Mahler's house follows the world-famous composer's life and work in his childhood home. We taste a shot with a kick of Mahlerovka, a Bohemian herbal liqueur, fragrant with linden blossom, which dates back to 1861 when the original recipe was created by Mahler's father Bernard. One of the most authentic dishes is Svickova, (tenderloin) or traditionally beef topside is served with cream-based vegetable sauce and dumplings. However, we enjoy lunch at the renowned 420 restaurant, situated in the oldest Prague square, where Czech cuisine, presented in an creative way with a difference, is designed by Michelin-starred chef, Radek Kasparek. Set within a former palace, the extraordinary interior design combines urban style with grandeur. Dishes are inspired works of art which taste incredible, but don't expect your chosen plate to look like anything you imagine. This is the surprise element. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Prague Offspring Ensemble Modern | Marion Ainge Our musical treats include a contemporary classical concert by the Prague Offspring Ensemble Modern 1 in the DOX Centre for Contemporary Art, which is a leading venue for innovative culture and performance. I'm a traditionalist when it comes to classical music, but I'm open-minded about this new, avant garde musical experience. Following the last note, the orchestra and conductor receive rapturous applause and a standing ovation from an enthusiastic audience, who cheer and whoop, bringing the conductor back on stage several times for additional adulation. My favourite memory of this incredible musical journey is of the heart-warming, open air Prague Spring Teen annual family festival concert within the flower-filled grounds of the St Agnes, Monastery, a 13th century convent and gallery in Prague, on a balmy evening This event is the culmination of a festival day featuring crazy games and activities aimed at youngsters and families. The professional vocalists' selection of popular songs pleases adults and young ones alike. Everyone joins in the dynamic finale, which features the whole cast. Young children run up to jostle and jiggle about alongside the stage, singing loudly and playing 'instruments' they made in the workshops. I still have the song in my head! Find out more:
Scotsman
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
I popped to Prague and it was alive with the sound of music
Marion Ainge pops to the stunning city of Prague for a cultural reset Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox 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... From an open window, we hear a tinkling piano accompanying the voice of a soprano practising her musical scales. On Prague's famous Charles Bridge, a lively jazz quartet entertains. And at legendary composer Dvorak's former home, in Nelahozeves, we're surrounded by the sounds of his internationally renowned New World Symphony which fills every room. In 1969, Neil Armstrong, commander of the Apollo 11 spaceship and first man on the moon, took a cassette recording of this symphony, composed in the United States, on his epic mission. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The rooftops of Prague | Marion Ainge It's around two hours by EasyJet airline from northern UK airports to Prague, known as the city of 1,000 spires. Situated in the heart of Czechia, the blend of music, history, culture and gastronomy attracts around eight million visitors every year. Aria Hotel garden | Marion Ainge Our base is the luxurious, aptly named-5-star boutique Hotel Aria sited in the Old Town, just minutes from Charles Bridge. Rooms are dedicated to a specific style of music, artist or composer and there are other musical touches - the top of the bar counter is designed to resemble a piano keyboard. The exquisite, Baroque-themed Unesco Heritage garden is a favourite setting for the most romantic of wedding photographs. Breakfast at the Hotel Aria is a symphony of delights! I manage to resist the creamy pastries to choose a bowl of sweet, fresh strawberries and a truffle oil omelet. The building of one of the oldest bridges in Europe, the Medieval, stone-arched Charles Bridge began in 1357 during the reign of King Charles lV and was completed in the early 15th century. At 516 metres long and almost 10 metres wide, it crosses the River Vltava from the Old Town to the castle, features 30 stone statues and is bordered by two towers. Pedestrianised, it's always buzzing with two-way walkers and is full of activity with musicians, street entertainers, stalls, painters and artists. In the city, it's also worth seeing the psychedelic, colour-splashed John Lennon Wall; Devil's Canal also known as Little Prague Venice and the London-themed pub, complete with red telephone box. Beethoven and Mozart are listed among the city's most famous visitors over the years. The Bedrich Smetana Museum, within a neo-Renaissance building on the river banks, explores the life and works of one of the most influential Czech composers. The top of the Old Town Hall Gothic tower affords panoramic views of the city and houses the famous Astronomical Clock. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Brno main square | Marion Ainge A two-hour journey takes us to Brno in south Moravia, a university city which boasts a vibrant gastronomy scene with trendy coffee shops and bars. In the great composer Janacek's former house, now a memorial, a violinist plays a selection of Janacek's 15 famous folk songs. This Brno is a very different one from the memory I have of a visit with one of my sons many years ago. It was Bastille Day when we came across husband and wife French patriots clad in late 17th century blue, white and red costumes, who carried a large French flag on a pole. They were celebrating the historical turning point of the French Revolution. Our newfound friends spoke no English, but in a moody cavern bar, the language barrier was crossed with mother and son's limited French. Czech liqueur, Becherovka helped us along as we waved the French flag. In the historic town of Jihlava, an exhibition tour in Gustav Mahler's house follows the world-famous composer's life and work in his childhood home. We taste a shot with a kick of Mahlerovka, a Bohemian herbal liqueur, fragrant with linden blossom, which dates back to 1861 when the original recipe was created by Mahler's father Bernard. One of the most authentic dishes is Svickova, (tenderloin) or traditionally beef topside is served with cream-based vegetable sauce and dumplings. However, we enjoy lunch at the renowned 420 restaurant, situated in the oldest Prague square, where Czech cuisine, presented in an creative way with a difference, is designed by Michelin-starred chef, Radek Kasparek. Set within a former palace, the extraordinary interior design combines urban style with grandeur. Dishes are inspired works of art which taste incredible, but don't expect your chosen plate to look like anything you imagine. This is the surprise element. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Prague Offspring Ensemble Modern | Marion Ainge Our musical treats include a contemporary classical concert by the Prague Offspring Ensemble Modern 1 in the DOX Centre for Contemporary Art, which is a leading venue for innovative culture and performance. I'm a traditionalist when it comes to classical music, but I'm open-minded about this new, avant garde musical experience. Following the last note, the orchestra and conductor receive rapturous applause and a standing ovation from an enthusiastic audience, who cheer and whoop, bringing the conductor back on stage several times for additional adulation. My favourite memory of this incredible musical journey is of the heart-warming, open air Prague Spring Teen annual family festival concert within the flower-filled grounds of the St Agnes, Monastery, a 13th century convent and gallery in Prague, on a balmy evening This event is the culmination of a festival day featuring crazy games and activities aimed at youngsters and families. The professional vocalists' selection of popular songs pleases adults and young ones alike. Everyone joins in the dynamic finale, which features the whole cast. Young children run up to jostle and jiggle about alongside the stage, singing loudly and playing 'instruments' they made in the workshops. I still have the song in my head!
Daily Mail
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
European country opens 'little London' theme park area - but Brits are pointing out the inaccuracies
A theme park on Lake Garda that's inspired by Hollywood sets - and creates some of the most famous cities for the thrillseekers that visit - has unveiled a London-themed section. On Reddit, one British tourist who'd just visited the amusement park, which is called Movieland, shared his photos of how the recreated streets of the English capital look - and asked for opinions on how accurate people thought it was. Using the handle, @r/CasualUK, the Brit asked: 'This amusement park in Italy has opened a new area themed after London/the UK, did they nail it?' The photos show a black cab, old fashioned telephone box and a red postbox, alongside Victorian-style street lights and a red double-decker bus serving, you guessed it, fish and chips. The poster explained that the area had been created ahead of a new ride opening. He said: 'The park's name is Movieland on Garda Lake, not huge but has some unique rides, this "area" is actually just the facade of a new attraction that will open in June. I hope they will add more little particulars before the opening!' Reddit users then began to take a closer look at the images and, after scrutinising them for authenticity, they promptly pointed out more than a few inaccuracies. 'Front number plates are white', said one person, referring to the yellow plate on the front of the London black cab. The side of the cab is adorned with the words, in gold, Kingston's Tailors, New Bond's Street, No.6[sic]. Some joked about the weather too, with one penning: 'There's a family of tourists wearing rain ponchos. That's pretty accurate.' Another remarked that the Union Jack was 'upside down'. While one poster quipped that for a truly authentic London high street, the designers should have included 'A Spar, a Games Workshop and a Cash Converters'. 'If by "nailed it" you mean "put a few very stereotypical things that are such a small part of UK culture and mainly based around what people from overseas think about London" then yes, they nailed it,' barbed another. Others said they'd had mixed feelings when faced with recreations of British culture abroad, including Universal Orlando's Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction. One person wrote: 'The first time I saw King's Cross Station in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios it just felt off. They weren't allowed to use the TFL font so all the signage is slightly wrong - it feels like London in another dimension, which I suppose it technically is, since wizards aren't real!' Another recounted visiting England, if it were transplanted in East Asia. They wrote: 'Not really a tourist attraction but there's a town near me in China called 'Thamestown' that is a full size replica of a British town, complete with pubs, chippies, a big church etc. 'It absolutely nails it by just being so mediocre. It's like being in Slough but you're 20 miles from Shanghai.' Meanwhile in the UK, excitement is brewing over the prospect of Universal Studios arriving on UK shores in 2031. James Bond, Lord of the Rings and Paddington are set to be among the first attractions at the new Universal theme park, but one big fan favourite has been left out of the fold, it is claimed. Displays and rides inspired by Jurassic Park, Minions as well as Back to the Future are also set to feature at the theme park, which is officially set to open in Britain after the deal was closed by the Government earlier this month. A source has revealed James Bond and Paddington are set to be among the first attractions at the new Universal theme park, but one big fan favourite has been left out of the fold The Bedfordshire attraction will be one of the largest and most advanced theme parks in Europe, with a 500-room hotel and a retail and entertainment complex planned along with the theme park. It is hoped the attraction will bring in 8.5 million visitors in its first year alone - after it opens its gates in 2031. By 2055 Universal expects the 476-acre site near Bedford to generate nearly £50billion for the economy - a significant boost for Sir Keir Starmer's Government after US President Donald Trump's tariffs sent stock markets on a rollercoaster ride. And while the Universal Destinations website claims it 'is too early' to definitely know what rides and themes will appear on the highly-anticipated site, one source close to the project says one huge film will be missing. To the bemusement of Harry Potter fans, the wizarding world will not be featured anywhere on site, according to a source who spoke to the BBC. The insider was adamant that it would be unlikely for plans to change, saying claiming contracts have already been signed.
