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New York Times
25 minutes ago
- Entertainment
- New York Times
Review: A Flamenco Powerhouse Is Still the Star but Not the Whole Show
'Cuidado!,' someone in the audience at the Joyce Theater yelled on Tuesday. It was opening night of Noche Flamenca's new show, 'Legacy of Our Dreams,' and the company's star, Soledad Barrio, was finishing her climactic solo. Turning in the direction of dimming light from one of the wings, she was nearing the edge of the slightly raised dance platform. The voice in the audience was warning her to be careful. Too late. She fell into the wing. It's a measure of Barrio's total commitment to her art that this accident looked nearly intentional, a fitting culmination to her solo's descent into despair. To watch Barrio perform a Solea — the flamenco form that, like her first name, means 'solitude' — is always to be a little concerned for her safety, at least emotionally, such is the slow-ratcheting, soul-baring intensity of her dancing. But if the fall was artistically consistent, it was also concerning. Barrio is 60. When she returned to the stage during the ensemble finale, apparently uninjured, it was a relief. (A company representative said later that she wasn't hurt.) Barrio won't have to sit out the rest of Noche Flamenca's Joyce run, but what is most remarkable about the company's latest production is how little it would change if she did. It would lose its boiling point and star turn, but apart from the opening and closing group numbers, that solo is Barrio's only appearance. As a close follower of the company for decades, I can't remember a show less focused on her. 'Legacy of Our Dreams' doesn't really have a clear focus. Press materials suggested that it would be an extension of last year's 'Searching for Goya,' inspired by the Spanish painter, but there's no mention of him in the program, and unlike the earlier show, the titles of the numbers don't obviously correspond to his works. Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
The Guardian
8 hours ago
- Entertainment
- The Guardian
‘Why are you so damn gay?': the public policing of Karl-Anthony Towns' joy
The first time I danced was with my father. I plucked my bare feet onto his work boots, to my mother's distress, and let his rubber soles guide me into a groove. Hand in hand, we spun through the kitchen as Al Green's Love and Happiness christened my rhythm's baptism. The second time I danced was with myself – and it would be my last. I wrapped my arms around the fleshy part of my waist as Seal's Kiss from a Rose played from the Batman Forever CD in my stereo. Alone in my room, I was OK with the mirror seeing every part of me. I danced like Shirley Temple with Buddy Ebsen. Like my father guided me. The only thing that could have broken my rhythm did. My stepmother filled the doorway, barefoot except for a roach she had stepped on. 'Why are you so damn gay?' That question didn't land as curiosity. It landed as a sentence – as instruction. From that moment on, joy had to pass inspection before it could be expressed. A decade later, in a different home and a different neighborhood, I stood over a sink, washing someone else's blood off my hands – still shaking from having fought my way out of being jumped. I wasn't just cleaning up. I was trying to scrub away any lingering doubt about my masculinity. This essay is about what happens when boys who move freely are taught to fear their own rhythm – and what it means when grown men like Karl-Anthony Towns are mocked for keeping theirs. Confusion, softness and the urge to question societal norms are beaten out of all of us – but especially out of young boys of color in dangerous neighborhoods. It's as if the praxis of masculinity demands violence as the antidote to vulnerability. Even laughter had rules. You couldn't let it be too high-pitched. Too quick. You learned to clap shoulders, not hold hands. I didn't immediately reconcile my behavior with its double, but I spent my adolescence trying to prove my stepmom wrong. Since moving from Minnesota to New York, expectations for former No 1 draft pick Karl-Anthony Towns have increased on all fronts. In New York, the world's largest media market, scrutiny moves faster than any headline – amplified by the virality of social media. Towns is discovering what happens when softness is punished, when queerness is projected, and when public figures become unwilling avatars in culture wars over masculinity. The term 'zesty', a softened descendant of homophobic slang, became Towns' shadow. It trailed him through every three-point play, podcast outtake and postgame moment. He became the target for people eager to mock what they couldn't define. In Hilton Als's The Women, he recalls being called an 'auntie man' – a Barbadian phrase for a queer man, used with equal parts derision and familiarity. For Als, the term was both burden and lens – a way to understand how femininity in male bodies disturbs cultural norms. Towns, in his gestures and tones, touched that nerve – not by coming out, but by refusing to contort himself into the rigid, humorless frame of what a man in sports is supposed to be. Towns is far from alone. Figures like Tyler, the Creator, Russell Westbrook and Odell Beckham Jr have also been queer-coded and mocked online – not for coming out, but for expressing aesthetic freedom that unsettles traditional expectations of Black masculinity. Reading Als, I realized I wasn't just haunted by my stepmother's question. I was haunted by the idea that my joy, softness and rhythm might be interpreted the same way – that to some, my way of moving through the world would always be 'off'. Homophobia today isn't what it was in the 1990s, when the idea of a gay NBA player sparked outrage. American culture has shifted. Most people – not just millennials – know someone who is openly gay. Even baby boomers often count LGBTQ+ individuals among their friends or family. This broader familiarity has normalized queerness – but mostly white, heteronormative queerness. During his presidency, Donald Trump welcomed 'Gays for Trump', revealing how sexuality has become more complicated in modern politics, so long as it's white and votes red. But in sports, John Amaechi and Jason Collins remain punchlines. Dwight Howard was the most recent NBA player to be publicly dissected for his queer preferences. His situation involved layers of moral, legal and consensual complexity, but the cultural judgment echoed the same old anxieties. Towns is ostensibly straight. He's in a public relationship with Jordyn Woods. But his moments of effeminacy have gone viral on TikTok, trickling down through Twitter and into Facebook echo chambers. Many cite his Dominican heritage – not as a direct link to queerness, but to the flamboyance, rhythm and emotional expressiveness embedded in that culture. And if he were gay or bi or queer, what exactly would that change? KAT is still a dawg. It's ironic that this ridicule came during the best season of his career. He averaged 24.7 points and a career-high 13.5 rebounds while leading the Knicks to their first Eastern Conference finals appearance in 25 years. He delivered signature performances, including back-to-back 40-point games and a playoff triple-double. His offensive dominance marked a personal and franchise turning point. But it wasn't enough. The online ridicule intensified, crystallizing into what became known as 'Zesty Karl-Anthony Towns', or Zesty KAT – a meme that painted the Knicks star as flamboyant or queer-coded based on voice, gesture and posture. The term resurfaced in 2024 after viral TikTok compilations dissected clips from his postgame interviews and on-court expressions, reigniting during the 2025 playoffs. One of the most viral examples came from X user @Zazamyodor, who quote-tweeted a clip of Towns softly saying 'for sure' with the caption, 'That 'for sure' was nasty work.' The post earned over 46,000 likes and helped cement 'zesty' as shorthand for mocking his style, despite his career peak. I still haven't danced like I did that first time, or even the second. But I think about it often: what it meant to be light on my feet, unburdened, joyful without explanation. What Karl-Anthony Towns is enduring isn't just a meme cycle. It's the same sentence I heard in my doorway, repackaged for likes and algorithm reach: 'Why are you so damn gay?' Not a question, an accusation. In this world, to be joyful in your body, to be expressive without apology, is still treated like defiance. Towns may not need to dance like I did. But every time he celebrates a three-pointer with flair, every time he speaks in a tone too tender for a seven-footer, he keeps the rhythm going for those of us who had ours interrupted.
Khaleej Times
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Is viral 'aura farming' boat kid coming to Dubai? Here's what we know
We've seen him glide through the waters of Indonesia, as he stands on the tip of a boat, belting out the smoothest of dance moves with his black shades on. The 'Aura Farming' boat kid, who has gone viral on the internet, may now be making his way to Dubai waters, according to a social media account that claims to be his official page. As per information on the page, 11-year-old Rayyan Arkan Dikha is supposed to commence his 'Dubai tour' in July and August. "Dubai, I am coming. Dubai, get ready for me," read the last two posts. Khaleej Times has reached out to verify the information. Although no specific dates have been released yet, the young boy who shot to fame in no time, is said to soon visit some of the most iconic locations across the bustling city, most of which have some sort of water element. Here are the spots where we might see him: Dubai Marina Lamborghini Yacht Bel Haza Zoo and Dubai Aquarium Desert Safari Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain Museum of the Future Jumeirah Beach and Kite Beach Who is the 'Aura Farming' boy? Rayyan Arkan Dikha originally went viral after a short clip of him wearing traditional Indonesian attire and dancing on a racing boat during a festival amused the internet. It was the young boy's calm, steady and cool demeanour that won the hearts of millions online, with his clip becoming a trend — Aura Farming — and even celebrities following it. Meanwhile, what became a trend for the internet, was actually just a morale boosting dance for Rayyan, who performed to motivate rowers who were competing in a centuries-old tradition. What is 'Aura Farming'? The term 'farming' is used in video games to describe collecting resources or tools. Meanwhile, in Gen-Z and social media terms, the word 'aura' is used to describe a person's demeanour and a likeable 'vibe' and personality. The better your aura is, the more 'aura points' you gain. This applies vice versa too, where if one does something embarrassing or disliked by people, then they loose their 'aura points'. A culmination of the two words has led to the term 'Aura Farming', which the little traditional boy seems to be a master of according to the internet.
BBC News
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Strictly Come Dancing: Two new professional dancers announced
There's not long to go until Strictly Come Dancing is back on our screens once again, and this time they'll be two brand-new professional dancers joining the line up. Meet American Alexis Warr and Australian-born Julian series won't all be completely new to them though, as both have previously danced at the World-famous Blackpool Tower Ballroom, so we're sure they'll be glad to have the chance to dance there once again for Blackpool week. But just who are they, and what can they bring to the show? Alexis Warr Here's five things you should know about the latest female dancer to join the show:She is best known for winning US dance series So You Think You Can Dance in 2022, and has also appeared on TV shows America's Got Talent and World of was crowned as 'America's Favourite Dancer', becoming the first female Ballroom and Latin dancer to claim the title. She has performed as a guest Professional Dancer and in the dance troupe on the US version of Strictly, Dancing With The Stars, and has been part of the series' US tour for the past three years. She's also taken part in national tours across the United States - including three with Dancing With The Stars judge Derek been a fan of Strictly for years, and said it was an honour to be joining "this incredible family". She added: "I can't wait to step into the ballroom, pour my heart into every moment, and share my love of dance with the UK." Julian Caillon Here's five things you should know about the latest male dancer to join the show:He's been dancing since the age of 10, specialising in Ballroom and Latin a familiar face on TV in his home country, having appeared as a professional dancer on Australia's version of Strictly, Dancing With The Stars, as well as touring the globe with hit dance show Burn The Floor, and competing in So You Think You Can been awarded a degree in Exercise Physiology and has worked as a personal known to be a keen athlete, and has already completed two triathlons this year so far. Impressive!He's called joining the cast of Strictly "a dream come true", and said he's watched the show for years so knows quite a lot of the other pros already. After it was announced he'd be joining from this autumn, he said: "I can't wait to get stuck in, have some fun, and be part of something special!"More details are still to come about the new series including who the new celebs contestants taking part will be. We can't wait to see what's in store!
The Sun
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Strictly Come Dancing 2025 dancers arrive at rehearsals for new series after new pros are announced
STRICTLY Come Dancing's class of 2025 were all smiles as they arrived at rehearsals – ready to tango into a brand new season. The glitzy stars, including fan favourites and fresh new pros, were snapped heading into the studio after this year's full line-up was officially confirmed. 10 With sequins at the ready and the countdown to launch night on, it's clear the competition is already heating up behind the scenes. Strictly Come Dancing has signed two new dancers for the 2025 series. Alexis Warr and Julian Caillon will join the BBC show later this year. The pair were all smiles as they beamed and waved at the camera as they arrived at the dance studio to meet the other dancers for their first rehearsal. Alexis nailed off-duty glam in an oversized khaki shirt, round dark sunnies and a chic brown leather bag slung over her shoulder. Her fiery red locks were swept into a high ponytail, falling in effortless waves. By her side, Julian kept things cool in a fitted black tee and matching trousers, with his dark hair slicked back for a sleek finish. Both are familiar faces on the global Dancing With The Stars circuit and bring a wealth of performance experience to the UK version. Alexis made a name for herself in the US when she won So You Think You Can Dance in 2022. She was the first female ballroom and Latin specialist to take the title, earning the title of America's Favourite Dancer. Since then, she's performed as a troupe member and guest pro on the American Dancing With The Stars, as well as touring with the show for the past three years. Her credits include America's Got Talent, World of Dance, and multiple live tours with DWTS judge Derek Hough, including his Las Vegas residency. Julian, who grew up in Australia, began dancing at the age of 10 and has represented his country at international level in both ballroom and Latin styles. He's appeared as a professional on three seasons of Dancing With The Stars Australia and has toured worldwide with Burn The Floor. Giovanni Pernice Strictly scandal timeline October 2023: Amanda abruptly withdraws from Strictly having already missed one live show. Her departure is announced in a vague BBC statement that 'wishes her the best'. Giovanni posts a short message on social media addressing the exit, which read: "Amanda… I am so sad we can't continue but I am proud of what we achieved and I am sending you so much love.' Amanda then shares her own farewell statement on Instagram thanking co-stars but failing to mention Gio. Giovanni's dad Piero insists there were no signs of a fall out and the pairing could have gone all the way. He praised his son as kind and polite. November 2023: Giovanni is reportedly gutted by the situation and is considering his Strictly future as questions are raised about his conduct. January 2024: Amanda's PTSD diagnosis comes to light and she demands CCTV from rehearsals to prove that Giovanni's training methods weren't acceptable. The BBC issues a statement defending its duty of care to contestants, insisting it takes any claims of wrongdoing very seriously. The Corporation stands by its man after emergency meeting March 2024: Giovanni publicly states he has no intention of leaving Strictly in a TV interview with close pal Anton du Beke. Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore enter the picture. Allegedly the two celebs, who were both previously partnered with Giovanni on Strictly, didn't feel the BBC took their issues with his methods seriously enough. The pair have a closed meeting with Amanda where tears are said to be shed. May 2024: We reveal Giovanni is leaving the programme after having talks with show bosses He leaves the country with girlfriend Molly Brown on holiday The BBC launches an internal investigation after three complainants instruct lawyers. A source describes it as a "nightmare situation". He also competed on the Australian edition of So You Think You Can Dance. Alongside his dance career, Julian holds a degree in Exercise Physiology from UNSW Sydney and has worked as a personal trainer. The duo join a returning cast of professionals that includes Dianne Buswell, Gorka Marquez, Katya Jones, Neil Jones, Nikita Kuzmin, Vito Coppola, Amy Dowden, Nancy Xu, Karen Hauer, Jowita Przystal, Luba Mushtuk, Carlos Gu, Johannes Radebe, Lauren Oakley, Aljaž Škorjanec and Michelle Tsiakkas. Dianne will be back after winning last year's series with comedian Chris McCausland. Amy, who withdrew early from the 2024 run due to a foot injury, is also confirmed to return. Carlos and Kai Widdrington will be back as well, despite not being partnered with celebrities in the last series. Giovanni Pernice, however, will not be returning this year. The Italian dancer, who was previously a regular fixture on the show, was absent last year and has faced allegations relating to behaviour in the rehearsal room. Graziano Di Prima has also left the show following a separate complaint involving Love Island's Zara McDermott. Sarah James, executive producer at BBC Studios, said: 'We've been big fans of Alexis and Julian for some time so it's with great excitement that we now welcome them both to the Strictly family. "They're two incredible dancers with bright futures ahead of them, and we know viewers are going to love getting to know them both.' The celebrity cast for the new season will be announced in the coming weeks. 10 10 10 10 10 10 10
