Latest news with #TheLyceum
The Herald Scotland
23-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
For Women Scotland: 'Irresponsible for EIF to promote choking show'
They told The Herald: "The last thing we need is a respected international festival endorsing it." However the International Festival said the work "does not explore violence against women" but rather a "deeply personal reflection on the artist's own experiences of consent and sexuality". The Dan Daw Show is due to be performed across three nights at The Lyceum theatre next month as part of the Edinburgh International Festival and is billed as a fuse of "sexy choreography and touching theatricality" to "take a stand against ableism". The festival's programme says it sees the Australian dancer "turn the spotlight inward, to find his own truth through a subject that holds the power to both challenge and liberate: kink". Content guidance for the show adds: "During some of the physical interaction between Dan and [collaborator] KrisX, KrisX puts a hand around Dan's neck as if choking him. Dan is placed into a latex vacuum cube, that is tight around his neck." Read more Posting online For Women Scotland, the campaign group which successfully took the Scottish Government to court over the legal definition of a woman, said: "It is absolutely disgusting that [EIF] is promoting a 'performance' which features the dangerous practice of 'choking'. "It should NEVER be entertainment! We really think this show should be pulled as a matter of urgency." Speaking to The Herald, the group added: "It is recklessly irresponsible for the Edinburgh Festival to promote dangerous and abusive acts in the name of art. "Organisations tackling violence against women have been warning about choking in particular, and the outcomes which can include brain damage and fatalities. "Sadly, this practice is widespread among younger generations and the last thing we need is a respected international festival endorsing it." The annual arts festival which runs for three weeks in August receives public funding from the [[Scottish Government]] and [[Edinburgh]] Council. It bills itself as featuring "the best artists from opera, music, theatre and dance on the world's greatest stage". Last year Beira's Place, the Edinburgh-based women's protection charity funded by J.K. Rowling, warned sexual choking was "becoming very normalised" among teenagers who increasingly saw it as a routine sexual act. It said a growing number of young women were turning to its counselling services after experiencing unwanted choking during sex. Rape Crisis Scotland similarly warned strangulation was often raised by pupils in consent and pornography workshops in schools. A spokesperson for the International Festival said: "We take the safety of artists and audiences very seriously. The detailed content descriptions for this performance are provided as guidance for those audience members who seek more information in order to make informed decisions, to feel safe and prepared. "This work does not explore violence against women. Instead, it is a deeply personal reflection on the artist's own experiences of consent and sexuality. "We encourage audiences to contact us directly if they would like to discuss the performance further." Dan Daw was approached for a response.
The Herald Scotland
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
For Women Scotland 'Irresponsible for EIF to promote choking show'
They told The Herald: "The last thing we need is a respected international festival endorsing it." However the International Festival said the work "does not explore violence against women" but rather a "deeply personal reflection on the artist's own experiences of consent and sexuality". The Dan Daw Show is due to be performed across three nights at The Lyceum theatre next month as part of the Edinburgh International Festival and is billed as a fuse of "sexy choreography and touching theatricality" to "take a stand against ableism". The festival's programme says it sees the Australian dancer "turn the spotlight inward, to find his own truth through a subject that holds the power to both challenge and liberate: kink". Content guidance for the show adds: "During some of the physical interaction between Dan and [collaborator] KrisX, KrisX puts a hand around Dan's neck as if choking him. Dan is placed into a latex vacuum cube, that is tight around his neck." Read more Posting online For Women Scotland, the campaign group which successfully took the Scottish Government to court over the legal definition of a woman, said: "It is absolutely disgusting that [EIF] is promoting a 'performance' which features the dangerous practice of 'choking'. "It should NEVER be entertainment! We really think this show should be pulled as a matter of urgency." Speaking to The Herald, the group added: "It is recklessly irresponsible for the Edinburgh Festival to promote dangerous and abusive acts in the name of art. "Organisations tackling violence against women have been warning about choking in particular, and the outcomes which can include brain damage and fatalities. "Sadly, this practice is widespread among younger generations and the last thing we need is a respected international festival endorsing it." Last year Beira's Place, the Edinburgh-based women's protection charity funded by J.K. Rowling, warned sexual choking was "becoming very normalised" among teenagers who increasingly saw it as a routine sexual act. It said a growing number of young women were turning to its counselling services after experiencing unwanted choking during sex. Rape Crisis Scotland similarly warned strangulation was often raised by pupils in consent and pornography workshops in schools. A spokesperson for the International Festival said: "We take the safety of artists and audiences very seriously. The detailed content descriptions for this performance are provided as guidance for those audience members who seek more information in order to make informed decisions, to feel safe and prepared. "This work does not explore violence against women. Instead, it is a deeply personal reflection on the artist's own experiences of consent and sexuality. "We encourage audiences to contact us directly if they would like to discuss the performance further." Dan Daw was approached for a response.
Scotsman
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Royal Lyceum Theatre: The 'dedicated' Edinburgh theatre boss standing down after six years
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... A director of a major Scottish theatre is to step down after six years in the role. Mike Griffiths, who took up the position of joint chief executive and executive director in 2019, is to leave the Royal Lyceum Theatre. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad With more than 40 years of experience working in theatre, Mr Griffiths started at the theatre in May 2019, where he navigated it through the Covid-19 pandemic, re-emerging into a turbulent funding landscape for the arts in Scotland. Mr Griffiths's past roles include nine years as administrative director of the Traverse Theatre, Edinburgh and interim chief executive at Horsecross Arts in Perth. His impending departure was announced at the theatre's official new season programme launch. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The Lyceum has recently welcomed James Brining as artistic director, replacing David Greig. Mike Griffiths is standing down as joint chief executive and artistic director of the Royal Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh. | Stuart Armitt He said: 'It has been a real privilege to work at The Lyceum over the last six years. It has been challenging, but the support of the Lyceum team and board has been invaluable. I know that with James Brining leading the company, The Lyceum will continue to flourish.' Mr Brining said: 'Mike has made a huge contribution to The Lyceum over his time as executive director. From making changes to internal processes and practice, steering through the challenges of the pandemic and working collaboratively across the city and the sector, Mike has always supported and advocated for the idea of producing the best theatre here in Edinburgh, for Scotland and the world. 'A dedicated internationalist and a source of insight and wisdom always tempered by kindness and warmth, we will miss Mike very much, but wish him well on his next adventure.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Chair of the board of directors, Tari Lang, said: 'Mike has had his steady hand on the tiller and provided calm leadership during good and challenging times for the Lyceum, through the pandemic and subsequent funding challenges.
The Courier
09-05-2025
- Business
- The Courier
The Pillars: A look back at iconic Dundee pub with history on tap
The Pillars is one of Dundee's oldest surviving pubs and has been serving drinks to successive generations since 1864. The traditional old boozer is a window into Dundee's past. It recently celebrated its 160th anniversary. The B-listed building dates back to the construction of Crichton Street. It was used for various purposes over the years. Robert Meldrum was trading from 9 Crichton Street in April 1845. He was selling the 'largest assortment of parasols and umbrellas, both in silk and cotton, in the north of Scotland, and at unprecedented low prices'. It became the Gutta Percha Company's depot. Gutta percha was the gum of a tree from East Asia. It was used for many domestic and industrial purposes. Meldrum made arrangements for a 'constant supply of their various patented products' including 'boot and shoe soles', 'driving belts and bands' and 'water pipes'. Grocer John Archbold succeeded Meldrum. In December 1849 he was selling wines and spirits. The sale of alcohol was of the 'finest quality' at the 'lowest renumerating prices'. By 1855 it was operated by Thomas Skene as a working men's coffee and reading rooms where steaks, chops, hot meats and potatoes were served. By 1859 the 'coffee, dining and reading rooms' was serving soups, steaks, chops, ham, beef tongue, haddock, pies, oysters and 'fancy biscuits'. All washed down with tea, coffee, ginger beer, lemonade, porter and ales. In June 1864 the 'spirit business' together with the fixtures and fittings was put up for sale at public auction at the British Hotel after Skene was made bankrupt. Robert Stewart opened a 'new wines and spirit business' there in 1867. He was formerly assistant at the Royal Hotel. He fitted up the premises 'in the most modern and improved style'. Stewart sold 'best quality' liquor at 'moderate rates'. In March 1882 William Parker took over as landlord. He succeeded publican Andrew Donald who retired through ill health. It was known as The Lyceum. It was advertised as the 'finest snuggery in the city'. There was an oyster bar. Parker also made his own whisky and sold it exclusively from his pub. Willie's Blend was the 'leading whisky in the city'. In April 1891 you could buy a bottle of Willie's Blend for two shillings and 10 old pence. The licence was transferred to John Graham in June 1892. In Dundee Pubs, author Brian King charted the history of the Pillars during his tour of 50 of the city's most interesting, oldest and famous watering holes. He highlighted how the pub got its name. 'It is difficult to imagine that pub being called anything other than The Pillars but in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it was The Lyceum,' said Brian. 'The Pillars name commemorates Dundee's Town House which was built in 1732 and stood where the City Square is today. 'It was known locally as 'the pillars' because of its colonnade which was a popular meeting place and contained many shops. 'It was demolished in 1932 and the same year a commemorative copper model was installed above the door of the pub at 9 Crichton Street. 'The model contained 1,105 pieces of copper and 1,754 rivets and used eight ounces of silver solder. 'It contained a working clock and lit up at night. 'When the new City Chambers were being built nearby, concerns were raised as to the number of projecting signs on Crichton Street leading to them all being taken down with the exception of the one at The Pillars. 'It was recognised as being something exceptional.' 'Meet me at the Pillars' became the tag line which appeared in the local press. It was situated conveniently 'near trams, trains and entertainment'. The pub became known for its service and 'friendly atmosphere within its walls'. In 1947 the pub's licence was extended to cover the shop at 15 Crichton Street. It became known as the Pillars Lounge. The lounge was used to serve three-course lunches from 12pm-2pm. It was connected to The Pillars by a passage and staircase. The pub gained something of a reputation for its lunches. These included shepherd's pie, grilled sausage and beans, and curried rabbit. The building's storied history has never been far from the surface. The remains of a poster for Willie's Blend was found behind a wall during renovation work in the 1970s and is displayed in the bar today. It enjoyed a regular and faithful clientele. They were charitable too. There were six whisky bottles on the bar to raise money for good causes. Regulars also walked from Dundee to Perth for children's charities in February 1986. On tap back then was McEwan's 80 Shilling, Tartan Export, Tartan Special, Harp Lager, Blackthorn Cider, Guinness and Younger's Pale Ale. You could also snack on filled rolls, pies and bridies in the bar. The Pillars Lounge became the Auld Steeple Lounge in December 1986. The name was chosen by licensee Gilbert Wilson 'to present a new image while still keeping the premises traditional links with Dundee's past'. The Evening Telegraph said: 'Gone is the old Victorian look, and in its place is a lounge in Tudor style, with sparkling fresh white walls and black timbering, an effect which gives an impression of spaciousness and light. 'The black wooden tables are in a Jacobean theme, and are complimented by tapestry upholstery on the wall seating and the stools, and the toning patterned carpet. 'Mr Wilson is also very conscious of the bar's history, and the black and white of the walls and ceiling is enhanced by two oil paintings of old Dundee scenes. 'The centrepiece, though, is an intriguing illuminated diorama of Dundee's Auld Steeple, which of course gives the lounge its name.' Bar meals were introduced in August 1987. Mine host Bert Wilson dreamed up a special offer. Food at 1952 prices were offered to the first 20 customers. But only if they paid in old money. He opened at 11am and found a queue of over 30 people standing outside with pockets jingling with pre-decimalisation pennies to take advantage. The idea stemmed from a 1952 menu found during the revamp. The Pillars and the Auld Steeple Lounge remained a fixture over the decades. But Dundee was in danger of losing this classic boozer in January 2011. The Pillars closed suddenly. Scottish and Newcastle Breweries approached John Justice. The Dundee publican agreed to take it over. The Auld Steeple Lounge name was changed to The Salty Dog. John and his son Thomas have elevated its Victorian origins since taking charge. The Pillars is decorated with historic paintings and artefacts. The Victorian bar itself remains largely unchanged since the 19th Century. Walking through the door is like stepping back in time and the history of the Pillars is part of its continuing appeal which sets it up well for the future. The Dundee Town House from which the pub took its name stood for 200 years. The Pillars pub may yet surpass that.
BBC News
06-02-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Bob Marley fan from Driffield marks reggae singer's 80th birthday
A man from East Yorkshire said Bob Marley's music had "made him a better person" on what would have been the reggae legend's 80th Flake, 59, from Driffield, said he became a Marley superfan after discovering his sister's record collection when he was a teenager and had listened "all the time" ever said he was inspired by Marley, who died of cancer aged 36 on 11 May 1981, for standing up for people without a voice, as his songs had messages filled with "unity and social change".Mr Flake said he was spending the day listening to Marley's hits, including Jamming and Sun is Shining, in his garden shed that is filled with his records and posters. He said: "It all started when I was about 13 or 14, as my sister had a really good record collection and she had a few good Bob Marley albums, so I started listening and have been ever since. I just listen to his music all the time."He has had a big influence in my life and always sang songs with messages in about unity and social changes and so I think listening to Bob Marley has made me a better person."He stood up for those who never had a voice and he wanted to unite the world and his music lives on today."Marley was born on 6 February 1945 in Jamaica to a black mother and white father, whom he did not have much contact with as he was a naval officer who worked for the British government. Marley moved to Britain in 1972 with his band The Wailers to tour with Johnny Nash, which led to them releasing an album called Catch a Fire and making their television debut on the career began to take off when his live recording of No Woman No Cry, which he sang at The Lyceum in London in 1975, was released as a Flake said he had visited Jamaica a number of times over the years and had even been to Marley's childhood home in Nine said: "Today there will be people from all over the world at his house, with events being held there and gospel choirs and people of all ages singing his songs. "I think his music will outlive everybody. It is timeless."Listen to highlights from Hull and East Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, watch the latest episode of Look North or tell us about a story you think we should be covering here.
