Latest news with #NationalTheatre
Iraqi News
7 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Iraqi News
Veteran Egyptian Actress Samiha Ayoub Dies at 93
Renowned Egyptian actress Samiha Ayoub passed away on Tuesday at the age of 93, according to a statement released by the Egyptian Actors' Syndicate. Born in 1932, Ayoub began her artistic journey at the age of 15, appearing in the 1947 film The Vagabond, followed by Love in 1948. In 1949, she enrolled at the Higher Institute of Dramatic Arts, founded by the prominent director Zaki Toleimat, under whose guidance she studied. Alongside her education, Ayoub maintained an active career in both theater and film. In the 1950s, she starred in several notable productions, including Beach of Love. She graduated from the institute in 1953. Ayoub later joined Egypt's National Theatre, where she served as director twice between 1975 and 1989. She also led the Modern Theatre from 1972 to 1975. Over the course of her distinguished career, Ayoub performed in nearly 170 theatrical productions, in addition to numerous appearances in film and television. Her final film role was in Eid Night (2024), starring alongside Yousra El Lozy, Riham Abdel Ghafour, Abir Sabri, Naglaa Badr, and Hanady Mehanna. The film was written by Ahmed Abdallah and directed by Sameh Abdel Aziz.
Glasgow Times
a day ago
- General
- Glasgow Times
Scottish school celebrates 50 years of 'memories and achievements'
St Helen's Primary School in Condorrat opened its doors in 1973 and has celebrated its golden anniversary with a series of special events after plans were postponed last year due to a serious incident. The school held a golden jubilee assembly on May 9, with former headteachers, staff, councillors, and community members in attendance. (Image: Supplied) Read more: Glasgow and Lanarkshire groups to perform for National Theatre's 30th anniversary Pupils entertained the attendees with a performance of themed songs and a Rock 'n' Roll show to Elvis's Jailhouse Rock. There were also sincere tributes paid by multiple attendees including former headteacher Mrs Margaret Friel and Mrs Joanne Hughes, a former pupil who now teaches at the school. Primary seven house captains also paid tribute by sharing what the school means to them. (Image: Supplied) (Image: Supplied) Liz Kelly, headteacher, said: "When we speak about St Helen's, we speak of more than just a school; we speak of a family—one where every individual is loved, valued, and respected. "This celebration is about more than just 50 years of history; it's about the memories, milestones, and meaningful moments that have shaped our journey. "It's about giving thanks to God for the thousands of children and families who have walked through our doors and left their mark on the school—and for the many more who will do so in the years to come." The following week, on May 16, a special Mass was held at Our Lady and St Helen's Church, led by Archbishop Nolan and attended by former parish priests who had supported the school through the years. (Image: Supplied) Read more: 'I want to be involved in a disability sport, but I just don't know how?' Ms Kelly said: "The celebrations have united the school community, past and present. "This has been especially lovely for the boys and girls to see and hear that they belong to such a widespread, supportive community—one that spans not only our school but also reaches out to the larger network of people who care deeply about their education, their growth, and their future." 'As we look to the future, we remain inspired by our past and grounded in our core values—Faith, Respect, Inclusion, Nurture, and Success. "With St. Helen as our guide, and Caritas Semper as our promise, we move forward— ready for the next fifty years and all the blessings they may bring.' The school is set to continue its celebrations throughout May and June, with pupils completing 50 Acts of Kindness—small gestures designed to help others. The celebrations will culminate with a school trip to Blair Drummond Safari Park on June 13, where everyone will wear specially designed caps with a 50th-anniversary logo created by the children themselves.
The Guardian
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Guardian
Stephanie Beacham: ‘The worst thing anyone's said to me? Loved you in Dallas'
Born in London, Stephanie Beacham, 78, studied mime in Paris and went to Rada. In 1971, she appeared opposite Marlon Brando in The Nightcomers and then made Hammer horror films. During the 80s she starred as Sable Colby in Dynasty and The Colbys. She has appeared on stage at the National Theatre and for the RSC; her other TV work includes Tenko, Sister Kate – for which she earned a Golden Globe nomination – and Coronation Street. She plays the lead in the film Grey Matter, which is streaming now. She has two daughters and lives with her partner in Cornwall and London. What is your greatest fear? Becoming deaf and blind, which is what happened to my father. What is the trait you most deplore in yourself? Well, I'm always right. What is the trait you most deplore in others? People who think they're always right. Describe yourself in three words Actress, mother, grandmother. What do you most dislike about your appearance? The body fairies did a very good job from head to hip and then they forgot to give me long legs. And I've paid the price for that, because I've worn more 5in heels than any woman deserves. If you could bring something extinct back to life, what would you choose? My dogs. Who would play you in the film of your life? I don't want a film of my life – it's too colourful. Who is your celebrity crush? I do watch Liam Neeson's films even though I wouldn't even consider half of them if he wasn't in them. Which book are you ashamed not to have read? None. I love reading, and I read a good book and a bad book at the same time. What is the worst thing anyone's said to you? Loved you in Dallas. Would you choose fame or anonymity? Before The Colbys was shown on television, I used to go into junk shops in Melrose [Avenue] and get things cheaply. Then I had to stop. I was looked at like: 'You, the bitch on television, are going to try to knock me down!' So I say anonymity, yes, but not without money. What was the last lie you told? I don't tell lies. What is your guiltiest pleasure? Staying in bed till lunchtime. Sign up to Inside Saturday The only way to get a look behind the scenes of the Saturday magazine. Sign up to get the inside story from our top writers as well as all the must-read articles and columns, delivered to your inbox every weekend. after newsletter promotion To whom would you most like to say sorry, and why? I think that's a thesis. What does love feel like? It is all there is. What is the worst job you've done? I was 15 working in Boots on Barnet High Street and it was terrifying. At coffee break you had to know whose cup was whose, and taking the wrong cup was a crime. I've met bitches, but I tell you they started out in Boots in Barnet. What would you like to leave your children? Security. What single thing would improve the quality of your life? Two ears. I am deaf in my right ear and I've just developed musical tinnitus – it's not an interesting tune and you don't choose it. I had three weeks of Hare Krishna night and day. Then it changed to Rod Stewart's Sailing. What do you consider your greatest achievement? Haven't done it yet. Tell us a secret I'm sitting here on Zoom in my knickers.
Glasgow Times
4 days ago
- Glasgow Times
42 Glasgow new volunteers join Victim Support Scotland
A total of 42 new volunteers in Glasgow have applied to join Victim Support Scotland (VSS) following a recent recruitment appeal. The response was part of a wider campaign across the country, which saw hundreds express interest in volunteering to help individuals and families impacted by crime. Read more: Glasgow team complete Edinburgh Marathon for 'important' cause It comes as Volunteers' Week begins, running from June 2 to 8. James Whyte, head of volunteering at VSS, said: "We are thrilled to see this level of enthusiasm and interest in our volunteering opportunities across Scotland. "Our volunteers do such vital work for people affected by crime, and to see more people willing to contribute their time and skills to supporting victims and witnesses is amazing." VSS is an independent charity offering emotional and practical support to people affected by crime. Read more: Glasgow and Lanarkshire groups to perform for National Theatre's 30th anniversary Its volunteers provide trauma-informed assistance in courts, including Glasgow's High Court and Sheriff Court, as well as through in-person services and remote options like helplines and webchat. James said: "Thank you to everyone who has registered to volunteer. "And if anyone else is keen to get involved, we welcome more applications from people in Glasgow." "If you are compassionate, resilient and a great listener, and can commit to a minimum of four hours a week, please visit our website to apply."
Glasgow Times
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Glasgow Times
Glasgow and Lanarkshire to perform at National Theatre event
The Glasgow Acting Academy and Hamilton District Youth Theatre are among 10 groups chosen for the National Theatre Connections Festival. This event celebrates the reopening of the Dorfman Theatre in London, which has been shut since November 2024 for government-funded refurbishments. Hamilton District Youth Theatre (Image: Supplied) Read more: Former Glasgow football ground could become nationally important site The Connections Festival is a cornerstone of the National Theatre, celebrated annually to champion young UK talent and the power of youth theatre. In its 30th year, more than 5,000 youngsters from more than 270 companies and schools have performed at home venues and 33 professional stages throughout the country. The Hamilton District Youth Theatre, which marked its 35th anniversary last year, will perform The Company of Trees by Jane Bodie on June 25. Glasgow Acting Academy, a charity committed to making performing arts accessible to all, will take the stage with No Regrets by Gary McNair on June 27. Clare Ryan, director of the Hamilton District Youth Theatre, said: "Connections has been an unforgettable experience. "Personally, it's given me the opportunity to develop so many valuable skills, and the level of support throughout has been outstanding." Elsa Tinney, a young participant from Hamilton District Youth Theatre, added: 'Connections has been a fantastic experience. As a small Scottish company, representation on the National's stage is incredibly valuable for us, and this opportunity is one we are extremely grateful for. "We have all made lifelong friendships and become so much closer throughout this process. "Connections is a wonderful creation for young people across the country which we would highly recommend." Maddie Grieve, director of Glasgow Acting Academy, said: "Connections has given our young performers a creative playground where they've tackled new writing with energy, collaborated as an ensemble, discovered their own voices, and created something truly special. "They've worked so hard, and being selected is an incredible recognition of their talent, dedication, and passion for theatre.' Louis, 18, a participant with Glasgow Acting Academy, said 'National Theatre Connections has provided me with valuable, transferable skills that I will be able to use wherever my future takes me. "I've made life-long friends and it has proven to be an unforgettable experience' Read more: Plea issued for 'vital' foster carers as Glasgow numbers drop Indhu Rubasingham, director and co-chief executive of the National Theatre, said: "I am really pleased to welcome 10 youth groups from all corners of the UK to the NT for this landmark anniversary festival of Connections. "Everyone should have the opportunity to experience the power of theatre-making." "I look forward to celebrating the extraordinary energy and creative vision these young performers will bring to our stages this June.' The Connections Festival has offered 125,000 young people across the UK hands-on experience in all aspects of staging and performing new plays over its 30 years. Tickets for the shows, priced at £5 per performance or £8 for two performances in one evening, will be available for purchase from May 20, with all performances offering captions. The festival also invites applications for its 2026 event, which will be held at the Lowry in Salford, aiming to reach a wider audience across the UK.
