#barry island pleasure park

[longlistshort]

“After Storm in the Fen”, 2024, Oil on canvas

"Squall Lines", 2024, Oil on canvas

For Rachel MacFarlane’s exhibition, Coming Events Cast Their Light Before Them, at Hollis Taggart, she has painted several dreamlike landscapes based on her travels to places impacted by climate events. She first creates maquettes from her observations (three are on view) and then uses them as the basis for the paintings.

From the press release-

At its core, MacFarlane’s work is about lamenting the loss of specific landscapes through creating and depicting new worlds where humans are no longer the protagonists. MacFarlane spends much of her time immersed in unique geographical environments – often ones that have been heavily impacted by climate change-related weather events. While working on her newest body of work, MacFarlane spent extensive time in places ranging from the Adirondacks to Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park in Maine, and from Prince Edward Island right after it had been hit by Hurricane Fiona to Clearwater, Manitoba during unprecedented flooding. As has always been her practice, MacFarlane does not document while she travels, instead preferring to absorb the atmosphere of a place and spend time really immersed in its sights and sounds. Upon returning to her studio, MacFarlane transforms her observations into three-dimensional maquettes created out of paper, paint, and plastic.

As MacFarlane describes it, a lot of play takes place at her collage table, as she manufactures new spaces based loosely on the spirit of specific ones, drawing on a myriad of influences from theatre and architecture to the world-building of science fiction literature and movies. The paintings in this show were specifically influenced by MacFarlane’s research into the Augsburg Book of Miracles, a manuscript depicting celestial and weather phenomena made in Augsburg, Germany in the sixteenth century. MacFarlane was moved and inspired by how these anonymous illustrators centuries before her were also dedicated to tracking warning signs in the landscape and to recording them in creative ways.

While she describes the model-building as a distancing method, it is also one that creates intimacy, as the scale shift to a shallow box model leads to the creation of a miniature world we can literally hold in our hands versus the enormity of the environment. After MacFarlane distills the memory of a place into an object, she further transforms it into its final form on the canvas, using bold colors and thick brushwork that highlights the painterliness and artifice of her landscapes. As art critic Barry Schwabsky notes in the catalogue essay, these multiple translations and transformations allow MacFarlane to “operate with and against flatness and depth, illusion and physicality, naturalness and theatricality… Her work gives pleasure but also warns that with all these unavoidable antitheses, the choice of one pole or the other would be hopeless, and we have to learn to live with the tensions between them.”

This exhibition closes 5/25/24.

[paverics]

she’s pretty though and pretty girls can do or say whatever they want actually so i’ve just decided that it doesn’t matter

i have forgiven her on behalf of wales and if any other welsh person disagrees with my decision then i’ll meet you outside barry island pleasure park and we’ll brawl

pro: jenna coleman back in her wlw role era

con: worst welsh accents you’ve ever heard to the point that it generated the same deep level of personal offence as if they had dug up my ancestors and pissed on their bones

[hardcorehardigan]

seren_me_05 @seren_hill05 on Twitter

July 25, 2021

Thank you so much tom hardy for the photo, completely made my day   . 

Also congratulations on the blue belt upgrade in BJJ 

[vowcomic]

[mihaifilms]

Barry Island Bliss: A Day of Sunshine and Serenity

[damailbox]

Disney Adventures AOL Auditorium

November 1993

Here’s an interesting piece of DA history I recently rediscovered in my “archives”. It’s a transcript for a moderated group chat room with Disney Imagineers, apparently on the day (or the day after) Disney’s America was announced for Virginia. This was still on Disney’s website when I printed it out around 1997.

It’s interesting to read what topics fans were obsessing over, and the sometimes candid responses from Imagineers, at a time when people were still new to chat rooms and virtual reality seemed to encapsulate the future of entertainment.

They mention several upcoming attractions like Tower of Terror, Alien Encounter, WESTCOT, Blizzard Beach, Discovery Mountain, Animal Kingdom and others. To save you from the headache of trying to decipher eight pages of unformatted text, I’ve scanned it in and fixed mistimed comments and stuff. Enjoy!

OnlineHost Good evening everyone. Welcome to the Auditorium and this special Disney Adventures conference. Today we're going to talk with some of the dreamers and doers from Walt Disney Imagineering and learn about some of their exciting new projects. OnlineHost The Imagineering team of more than 1,500 people includes such talents as: artists, writers, engineers, architects, filmmakers, audio and visual specialists, animators, manufacturing groups, computer programmers, land planners, and ride system designers. OnlineHost The sun never sets on Disney Imagineering. These folks are making magic around the world with parks in Southern California, Florida, Japan, and France. OnlineHost Today, on central stage, in fact, all in one room in Glendale, California — are a number of Imagineers who would love to answer questions about the Disney Theme Parks they know so well. CHIEFofDA Hi everyone..Thanks for coming to Disney Adventures first auditorium CHIEFofDA My name is Tommi Lewis and I'm the eidotr in Chief CHIEFofDA For those of you not familiar with us, we're the kids magazine aimed at kids CHIEFofDA we cover everything from entertainment to sports to adventure CHIEFofDA We just celebrated our 3rd Anniversary and have been the fastest growinb magazine in America CHIEFOfDA the past two years. RWWeis Kids, theres a lot of kids older than 14 CHIEFofDA One of our features is a column called COOL JOBS...we think Walt Disney Imagineers have the CHIEFofDA coolest jobs of them all! They are the people who create the Disney magic CHIEFofDA So Disney Adventures is proud to welcome Walt Disney Imagineers. RWWeis We're proud to be here too, Julia Here is some brief biographical info on the Imagineers: OnlineHost Yoshi Akiyamall Executive Producer/Designer Tokyo Disneyland OnlineHost Tony Baxter Senior Vice President Euro Disneyland, Disneyland & WESTCOT Center OnlineHost Barry Braverman Executive Producer EPCOT Center at the Walt Disney World Resort OnlineHost Don Carson Senior Show Designer Creative direction of Disney Theme Park attractions from concept to installation OnlineHost Chris Brown Concept Engineer Technical direction of shows and rides during conceptual development OnlineHost Chris Brown Concept Engineer Technical direction of shows and rides during conceptual development OnlineHost George Gerball Senior Concept Designer Conceptual development OnlineHost Tony Hatch Director of Communications Internal and external communications for Imagineering OnlineHost Eric Jacobson Executive Designer Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park, Magic Kingdom, River Country, Typhoon Lagoon, Pleasure Island and Blizzard Beach at the Walt Disney World Resort OnlineHost Joe Kilanowski Principle Concept Architect Architectual design and production OnlineHost Steve Kirko Concept Design Director Conceptual development OnlineHost Nancy Martin Concept Designer Conceptual development OnlineHost Steve Miller Project Director, Creative Development Creative Administration OnlineHost Katie Poole Senior Analyst, Creative Computing Center Interactive technology department OnlineHost Chick Russell Show Writer Script and story development for Disney Theme Park Attractions OnlineHost Michael Sprout Show Writer Script and story development for Disney Theme Park Attractions OnlineHost Bob Weis Senior Vice President Magic Kingdom and Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park at the Walt Disney World Resort and proposed new Theme Parks in the U.S. and Japan RWWeis and smart aleck OnlineHost Doris Woodward Senior Show Producer WESTCOT Center — a proposed Disney Theme Park for Anaheim, California. Eugene Koh We have with us at our headquarters in Vienna, VA Bob Weis, who would now Eugene Koh like to say a few words… RWWeis Welcome—we’re a little punchy from spending the day announcing Disney’s America RWWeis But we’re really glad everyone logged on! Welcome! Eugene Koh Thanks, Bob! We welcome everyone in the audience to send in their questions and comments to the extraordinary group we have assembled tonight. Eugene Koh Simply use your “Interact with Host” button! One caveat, however (the following) comes to us from legal-types but need to be heard, at least once, anyway :) OnlineHost The following interactive forum is intended for informational purposes only. Theme park plans, designs and concepts or other business suggestions will not be reviewed or considered. Eugene Koh That said, let’s begin! Eugene Koh Our first question comes to us from MarcF7747: Question How will the new theme park be oriented to public? Eugene Koh Would one of the Imagineers in Glendale, CA like to address this? RWWeis I’m having trouble understanding the question, we hope like our others they will come, buy a ticket and enjoy the day RWWeis It will be considerably more cognitive than the others Eugene Koh Thanks, Bob! Our next question has to do with theme park rides, I believe… Eugene Koh …and comes to us from Acid Funk: Question When are you going to make something with a loop in it. Eugene Koh A very practical question :) ImagineerB From Bruce, Indiana Jones, Temple of Peril, looping coaster is open at Euro Disneyland. RWWeis Industrial Revolution at Disney’s America will too Eugene Koh Our next question comes to us from Brisco CJ: Question Will Disney be doing anything with Virtual Reality Simulations? ImagineerB Yes. RWWeis Yes, lots of work on this, but pretty secret now Eugene Koh A question about designs at the new Disney park comes to us from Max 100: Question Are you doing the designs for Disney’s America theme park? I live right next to it. :) RWWeis We are, it will be exciting, and we plan to be good neighbors. Where’s your house? Eugene Koh LOL, Bob…what town will the new park be in? RWWeis The park will be insulated by a lot of green space. Its at route 66 and 15, in Prince William county, near Haymarket. Eugene Koh Keep sending those questions in, folks! Our next question comes to us from Geographer: Question How does one become an imagineer? RWWeis Lots of ways, artist, designer, architect, writer, engineer, a good imagination and a love for lots of hard work ImagineerB Tenacity. RWWeis it helps if you don’t care about making money Eugene Koh Our next question has to do with one of the Imagineers: Eugene Koh Gunstar asks, Question Is Bob Baranick still working on the Indy Adventure for Disneyland? ImagineerB No, Skip Lange and Susan Bonds are running that show. Eugene Koh Tigger01 asks: Question What is going to happen to Tomorrowland at Disneyland in California. RWWeis Tomorrowland in Fla is under construction. There will be a new show in Mission to Mars, Circlevision, and all new architecture. RWWeis Opens in FLA in 1994. Sorry everyone will miss Mission to Mars, but Alien Encounter will be a winner Eugene Koh A question from Nickle736: Question Are there any animators here? Imagineer B No. Eugene Koh BrianJosh asks a pertinent question: Question Can I ask a Imagineer a question? RWWeis sure Eugene Koh Yes, you can…if you have any questions directed specifically toward an Imagineer, ask away.. we have over a dozen of ‘em here, live! RWWeis come on Brian Eugene Koh Our next question comes from PDC Marku: Question What is the Twilight Zone attraction ride going to be like? RWWeis Mike Sprout is the concept designer and writer for the show ImagineerB From Michael Sprout, It is a high speed thrill ride that will drop you through the 5th dimension. Eugene Koh A question about roller coasters from Drrobotni: Question I read about the Temple of Doom ride at Euro disney i.e. coaster with loops . Any chance of that ride or similar coming to America for that matter, any new rollercoaster type rides at Disneyland or disney world? ImagineerB From Bruce, yes WESTCOT Center in Anaheim, California. RWWeis There will be two roller coasters in Disney’s America Eugene Koh Our next question has to do with animal theme parks: from CongoCrai, Question I’d like to ask about the upcoming animal theme park Disney is planning for FL. RWWeis OK RWWeis Do you have a question about it, or just want some info RWWeis It’s huge, will have lots of great animal interactive attractions. It will really be one of our best parks yet. Lots of thrills, and lots of unique environments. RWWeis There will be an Asia and an Africa safari, as well as lots of rides. Eugene Koh A question about Epcot from Owings: Question What are the new communications plans for Epcot? RWWeis Barry Braverman is in charge of EPCOT ImagineerB From Barry, In December of ’94, we’ll be opening a renovated Spaceship Earth Ride and new interactive communications post show. Eugene Koh A question from GaryR1207 Question In the Disneyland Haunted house, how do you get the statues to talk ? And the doors to breath ? ImagineerB From Tony, it’s not done with holograms. ImagineerB We use traditional magic and film special techniques. Eugene Koh A question about hotels from Stephen63: Question what kind of new hotels at wdw RWWeis Everything from luxury, to budget, heavy theme like Grand Floridian, to contemporary theme ImagineerB From Tony, Wilderness Lodge will be the highlight next to Fort Wilderness Campground in November. RWWeis Fort Wilderness has small trailers if you like a camping experience. Eugene Koh A question about the Muppets from DolphinTa: Question What are the plans involving the Muppets? ImagineerB No current plans. Eugene Koh A question from Lennarz: Question Is a “virtual on-line” Disney in the plans!? RWWeis wow, did you read our minds? Eugene Koh A comment from Red Rose: Comment Thanks for making your parks handicapped accessible!! RWWeis It’s pretty important—essential in fact ImagineerB We try very hard to make our parks accessible to everyone. Eugene Koh A question from IHS Greg: Question I was also wondering how the plans for Celebration are coming along. I’m a dentist and I would love to be a “Disney Dentist”. When will Celebration become a reality? ImagineerB That’s being designed by Disney Development, which is a different division of the company. Eugene Koh A question for Tony Baxter: Question This question is for Tony Baxter. Who is currently heading up the Indiana Jones Adventure for Disneyland? ImagineerB I am. Eugene Koh A question from EnigamLin: Question So What’s the first new ride to be opening at Disneyland (CA) and when? ImagineerB From Tony, Roger Rabbit’s Spin-Around, in January ’94. Followed by Indiana Jones in ’95. Eugene Koh A question from Atlanta99: Question What are some of the jobs available at WDI and what type of schooling is needed? ImagineerB Engineering, architecture, design, art, writing, illustration… Eugene Koh Our next question is from Rio Niki: Question OK so how many theme parks are there around teh world and where are they? Wich one is the biggest? ImagineerB Anaheim, Orlando, Tokyo, Paris and soon Virginia. ImagineerB EPCOT Center is the largest. But Disneyland has the most rides. Eugene Koh Seems that a lot of you are asking for more info about Disney’s America. Any comments, Imagineers? Eugene Koh For example, MikkyMous asks: Question Tell us all you can about Disney America! RWWeis It’s a new idea. RWWeis It will be fun, but also educational, and tied to your visit to Washington, There is a folder you can download that has today’s press release RWWeis After you go to museums in Washington, you come to Disney’s America to live history, to play roles in government etc. RWWeis It will open in 1998 Eugene Koh Bongo7690 asks: Question what is going on with westcot? ImagineerB From Tony, WESTCOT is currently being designed for opening near the end of the decade. Eugene Koh A question from R Raymond: Question What’s the story on a Russia pavilion at EPCOT? ImagineerB From Barry, we’ve done some preliminary designs, but the project is on the back burner at the moment…as is Russia at the moment. Eugene Koh An interesting question from Tix36: Question Do you think that these new expansions will prove to be more profitable than the EuroDisney? ImagineerB We hope so. Eugene Koh A question about Typhoon Lagoon from TTSschorr: Question Mr. Jacobson, in Typhoon Lagoon you enter the wave pool from the beach, how do you manage to keep the water from being full of sand? Imagineer B Big filters. ImagineerB The wave doesn’t terminate on loose sand. It terminates on concrete. Eugene Koh A question about the environment from IHS Greg: Question Are there plans to preserve some of the unspoiled land around WDW for wildlife & native Florida flora, or will most of the land be developed? RWWeis We hope not—we need green spaced and forest too. ImagineerB There is an 8,000 acre preserve. ImagineerB It is being managed by the Nature Conservancy. Eugene Koh A question from Roys Teet about Disney’s America: Question Do you think that the virginian park will wipe out nearby colonial Williamsburg? RWWeis I think it will help them, we hope to cooperate with them and bring more people to the area ImagineerB We feel the two will complement each other. Eugene Koh A question from RachelF69: Question Any new rides in disney world? ImagineerB Tower of Terror opens at the Disney-MGM Studios in summer of ’94. RWWeis Tower of Terror (a thrill ride) 1994 Eugene Koh A question about international Disney parks from BGH LA878: Question When you move an attraction to a foreign country, What modifications are the most difficult? ImagineerB Keeping the jokes funny. ImagineerB There’s also different building codes, food service, languages and fire protection. Eugene Koh A question from Mnotaur: Question My 5 year old daughter would like to know when WestCot will be opening… ImagineerB The end of the decade. When she is 13. Eugene Koh A question from Waltopia: Question Tony Baxter- Can you tell us what is being built in Discoveryland? ImagineerB Discovery Mountain, the biggest and fastest Disney roller coaster of all time with three loops and the guest are fired out of a cannon. Eugene Koh A question from JaneEyre2: Question I heard that all the presidents in the hall of Pres. are robots—except Reagan, who actually plays himself, and enjoys the work—that so? RWWeis true ImagineerB Yes, that’s correct. RWWeis He likes the food at WDW ImagineerB Bill Clinton has recorded a speech that will open November 18. ImagineerB In Walt Disney World, Magic Kingdom. Eugene Koh A question from Bushwackr: Question How did you all get involved with Disney? ImagineerB We love the product. RWWeis I came after college, and worked on Tokyo Eugene Koh A question from JBMahoney: Question Is Disney planning on using any type of virtual reality in their present or future parks? ImagineerB Yes, in New Tomorrowland at Disneyland. RWWeis Yes, lots of projects under consideration Eugene Koh A lot of you have been asking about opportunities for work. Bergland asks: Question Where would someone interested in working in a creative capacity for Disney write to call to inquire about job ImagineerB Contact our personnel department. (818) 544-6543 Eugene Koh A question about Disney Adventures: Eugene Koh CharlesW9 asks: Question Can we get the magazine online? ImagineerB Yes CHIEFofDA Sure can! CHIEFofDA We put each month issue on line before it hits the newsstands just look up the section you want to read in our main menu Eugene Koh Explore the Disney Adventures area online for more info. Next, A question from JohnC4142: Question I’d like to hear more about Blizzard Beach ImagineerB Third waterpark at Walt Disney World featuring a blizzard in Florida ImagineerB It will feature the highest speed slide. ImagineerB Opens early 1995. RWWeis About the size of Typhoon Lagoon Eugene Koh A question about statues at the parks from Tigger01: Question The hub in Disneyland now has a few statues…What will be put on the pad in the very center of the flower bed…if anything? ImagineerB From Tony, Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse on Mickey’s 65th birthday, November 18. Eugene Koh Another question about Disney’s America: Question Is there going to be a new group of Imagineers for Disney’s America in Virginia, or is everything going to be designed from existing locations? ImagineerB No, that’s why we’re currently developing WESTCOT to focus attention in California ImagineerB Also, Roger Rabbit, Indiana Jones, and a whole new Tomorrowland. Eugene Koh A question about EuroDisney from JDavid94: Question with the losses at EuroDisney, what is Disney going to do to shore up this venture, and did you not consider the cultural setting in France, i.e. jingoistic? ImagineerB From Tony, yes we considered the culture. More people have visited Euro Disney in its first year than any other theme park in Disney’s history. RWWeis Europe is in the worst recession since WWII RWWeis And that is hurting Euro Disney Eugene Koh A question from Shelli: Question I heard that Star Tours at MGM is Supposed to be changing, Is this ture? I love this ride and I hope it only gets better! ImagineerB We are considering a new show for the 20th anniversary of the Star Wars films in 1997. Eugene Koh A more specific question about virtual reality from REarly: Question I heard they will have VR type stuff. Will it be large simulators like Body Wars, or will it be Head Mount Displays, or what…..? RWWeis Both, but we have some great head mounted displays ImagineerB We can’t disclose the details of this highly confidential project. RWWeis But its great Eugene Koh A question about the historical perspective at America from Roys Teet: Question With the civil war theme, how will the issue of slavery be adressed: from a northern or southern perspective? RWWeis The nature of the park is that it will present history accurately, good and bad Eugene Koh A question about America from Seg: Question Will the new Theme Park be anything like Epcot? RWWeis Smaller, more American in the sense that it deals with American issues not international. Will have more thrill rides, and a little less emphasis on the future Eugene Koh A question about Euro from MikeS2361: Question What types of P/R activities are you undertaking in Europe to help boost park attendance ? ImagineerB We opened 10 new attractions and more emphasis on the activities in the park and not so much on Mickey Eugene Koh A question about the work of Imagineers… I think LindsayE is looking for look at day-to-day life: Question What does an Imagineer do? It is the most beautiful job title I’ve ever heard. ImagineerB We make the dreams come true … Eugene Koh A question from Eric310: Question What is the progress on the new Disneyland Resort plan? What hurdles still need to be cleared? What are some of the ideas for that park? ImagineerB All of the governmental issues are resolved, the question is whether it makes sense economically. ImagineerB Similar to EPCOT, it has Four Corners of the World instead of the World Showcase ImagineerB and you can live in the park. Eugene Koh A question from Geographer:
 Question When will “Cartoon Spin” in Toon Town open and are there any “Sneak previews” planned prior to its opening? ImagineerB It was sneak previewed to people who attended the Disneyana convention last month and opens for everyone in January. Eugene Koh A question about the types of computers used from The Lazer: Question Do you use Macintosh or IbM computers in helping to run, Or Build the rids ImagineerB Both. Eugene Koh What sorts of computers do the Imagineers use? ImagineerB Creative uses lots of Macintoshes. Silicon Graphics work stations ImagineerB The engineering groups use IBMs. ImagineerB And four people use Newtons. Eugene Koh A question fro Kealii: Question Please tell us about the amazing “skin” used on animatronic figure - material, how long it lasts, how applied, and so on ImagineerB It’s a flexible latex alloy called hot melt. ImagineerB It’s injection molded and wrapped around an inner supporting form. ImagineerB Don’t try this at home. Eugene Koh Our final question comes from FlatCat. We have received hundreds of questions over the past hour, and unfortunately weren’t able to address all of them here. However, if your question hasn’t been answered tonight, you can send e-mail directly to Bob Weis, a senior executive at Disney who spoke tonight, at screenname RWWeis. RWWeis I’ll do my best, it was great having everyone here tonight Eugene Koh FlatCat asks: Question Eric Jacobsen - you seem to have the longest title - out of all the projects you are working on, which is the most fun? ImagineerB Blizzard Beach. Eugene Koh Perhaps you all can address this, not just Eric. ImagineerB Whatever’s funded. RWWeis Tower of Terror! AaaaaAAaAAAAAAAAAAAAAA ImagineeerB Thanks to everyone for all their questions. Eugene Koh Great! Well we want to thank all of the Imagineers for coming tonight, and again, if any of your questions haven’t been answered, explore the Disney Adventures area online for the latest info direct from Disney! CHIEFofDA Thanks for coming to D.A.’s first auditorium…look for future events in the Disney Adventures area. CHIEFofDA You can even chat with us live every M-W-F at 7 pm EST RWWeis Thanks Eugene, thanks AOL, and all our guests. CHIEFofDA Thanks to the folks at Disney Imagineering for being here tonight Eugene Koh Thanks to everyone in the audience for your great participation! Your questions and comments make our live conferences fly. Thanks again to our Disney Imagineers! ImagineerB we really had fun CHIEFofDA and, as always…..ADVENTURE ON!

[tomhardymyking]

Tom in Barry Island Park today 😊👌🏼 He looks so good and strong 🥴💓🔥😍💘

Tom en el parque de Barry Island hoy 😊👌🏼 Se ve tan bien y fuerte 🥴💓🔥😍💘

⠀⠀

📸: iestynjames2 & Barry Island Pleasure Park⠀|⠀📍: Barry, Wales ¦ Barry, Gales⠀|⠀📅: 24 07 2021

[tomhardyitalia]

Pic del 25/07/2021

📷 Barry island pleasure park on facebook

#TomHardy #venomlettherebecarnage #venom2 #barryislandpleasurepark

[starcityhq]

THIS IS IT —

Bruce Banner and Tim Drake knew they couldn’t ignore the alarming level of gamma radiation permeating the city since NOVA’s departure. Their concerns were brought to Bruce Wayne and Steve Rogers, along with detailed reports and explanations. However, no one could ignore the greatest possible threat presented to them: a nuclear bomb. 

Things moved quickly after that. A small team was assembled to infiltrate NOVA’s Headquarters for information, but to also be prepared for a confrontation. No one knew how much time they had. The situation was dire. This time, however, they wouldn’t make the same mistake twice. Scott Summers stayed behind with a group of mutants - mutants prepared and equipped to shield the city in case of nuclear disaster. A second group remained in Star City man comms and funnel information between parties. Throughout it all, the public remained unaware of the underlying crisis.

But not for long.

As the mission is underway, citizens are enjoying what they believe to be a nice, normal day. The air is cool and crisp, but the sun is shining. It’s a beautiful day for a little chaos. 

At least, that’s what Joker thinks. And after so much buildup, he’s ready to unleash his little plan on the world. In the dead of night the day before, he had sent his men out to rig up a giant screen concealed within a billboard which looked like it was advertising for a new play going up called “The Main Event.” Identical boards were positioned carefully throughout the high trafficked areas in the city.

Joker straightens his tie as he prepares to help Star City greet the day with a gripping drama he has created all by himself. There are so many ways this could have gone awry. If Superman had come after him that day after the park with Lucy. If Anton Satan has taken his warning a little more seriously. If Rick Flagg had caught him during the Kryptonite heist shrouded by the chaos of the riots after the NOVA explosion. He would have to thank all of his supporting actors: Scarecrow, Kite-Man, Harley, of course, and even Money Shot—Payload—for their contributions, but it would be Joker reaping the benefits.

3...2...1… Showtime.

A gloved finger flicked a switch on his control board and Joker kicked back to wait as his goons lured Superman to his location. The billboards all over the city were suddenly graced with his face.

“What a beautiful morning to you, Star City,” an all too familiar voice echoes from every television set in the city. All the places the broadcast avenues he had jacked would have reached. Television sets, streaming, and of course, the electronic billboards in the streets all feature his pearly whites and the sinister grin that accompanies them.

“Since it’s been so long since you and I have had a proper show, I figured you had to be missing me terribly. All this chaos and not even a little bit of fun to cut the ugly? It’s a crime worse than any that I could commit. We all need a little laughter once and a while or I’ve found that we have the tendency to… just explode.”

“Things have certainly been in a whirlwind since we last spoke, haven’t they? Barely any time to laugh at all. Those heroes all need to unwind once and awhile, just like us, but it must just feel soooo out of control. So… how about we do a little favor to one of the guys that puts in so many hard hours for us doing big big favors? Ladies and gentleman, for your viewing pleasure, I’ve set up a little game for none other than the Man of Steel himself to give him back all the control he needs.”

“I’ve come to learn,” he said, more for the benefit of the onlookers than Superman, who could also hear him speaking now, “that Superman is really more of a family man than any of us could ever have guessed. But which is more important? Family or fellowship? After all, you all look to Supes, don’t you? Would he choose the needs of the many or the needs of the favored? Strap a bomb to a man’s family or under a man’s city, and then the choices really get tough. Maybe control’s not all it’s cracked up to be.”

And with that, Joker has taken control of the bomb.

This event will have teams in different locations. If you would like to be added to a team or if you would like to be switched to a different team, please message an admin and let us know!

TEAM A:

MEMBERS: Bruce Wayne, Steve Rogers, Diana Prince, Barry Allen, Oliver Queen, Erik Lehnsherr, Wanda Maximoff, Anna Raven, Jihl Nabel, Bucky Barnes, Dick Grayson, Clint Barton, Natasha Romanoff, & Tommy Shepherd.

LOCATION: NOVA’s new Headquarters, 500 miles outside of Star City.

OBJECTIVE: Infiltrate NOVA for information on the location of a possible nuclear weapon. Use force if necessary.

TEAM B:

MEMBERS: Jason Todd, Tim Drake, Damian Wayne, Barbara Gordon, Cassandra Cain, Stephanie Brown, Roy Harper, Donna Troy, & Airen Ravencroft.

LOCATION: Wayne Manor.

OBJECTIVE: Provide ground support and gather information for Team A. 

TEAM C: 

MEMBERS: Scott Summers, Bobby Drake x 2, Julian Keller, Gabby Kinney, Nathan Summers, Emma Frost, & Quentin Quire.

LOCATION: District X.

OBJECTIVE: Prepare for the worst case scenario should the bomb go off.

Any character not on a team is free to react to the bomb threat however you’d like! Remember that Star City is an island. There is a single bridge and a ferry, but with the ensuing panic, no one is getting anywhere any time soon. Feel free to have your character stuck in traffic, on the ferry, ect., or message the main if you’d like ideas on how to participate! There are plenty of heroes and villains still in the city to help out/wreck more havoc!

NOTE: You are welcome to complete threads (group or otherwise) on discord or on the dash!

And with that, our event has begun! It will run JANUARY 31ST, 6:30PM EST to FEBRUARY 14TH, 6:30PM EST. Please make sure you are tracking and using the “STARCRADIOACTIVE” and “STARCEVENT” tags for event posts and are answering open starters in addition to posting your own! Please do not start non-event threads during this time without permission from the admins. As always, admins reserve the right to accept character applications at any time during the event rather than just during the typically scheduled two days a week. Keep an eye out for plot drops!

[dxolympic]

Feeling #angelic (at Barry Island Pleasure Park) https://www.instagram.com/p/CUriJZ2oo-m/?utm_medium=tumblr

[fierypen37]

The Oasis: Chapter 17

Chapter 17

 They whiled away the afternoon snuggled on the couch watching movies. Her choice was a rom-com about a hard-ass businesswoman accidentally falling in love with her assistant. Jon felt for the poor bastard loving his lady from afar. It was easy to daydream and project the two of them into the roles. It suited his romantic streak. Daenerys really was a badass businesswoman after all. He’d pine for her in silence. Her tea would always be hot. Her appointments would always be on time. Jon would be her shadow, her right hand as she conquered the world. Watching them fall in love made him absurdly happy. Watching the firelight dance on her features and shine in her hair, he had never felt more content.

Now, in the kitchen, they nibbled on lush strawberries crusted with chocolate. Mesmerized, he watched Daenerys take a bite, red juice dribbling down her chin. Fuck. He could watch her fold laundry or file taxes and it would make him hard. Jon looked away to distract himself. What else could he think about? Her favorite color was green, like tree leaves in summer and the sea near her home on Dragonstone. She always double-tied her shoelaces. She liked wine and hated beer. She had neat table manners, except with dessert. She snored. And she probably needed glasses from the way she squinted at the warming instructions on the prepackaged tea. Well shit. Now his dick and his chest were aching with longing.

“You ok?” her voice was soft. Jon blinked. Sitting on the counter, tousled, in her dark purple nightgown, swinging her feet as she nibbled on another berry. It was really unfair how cute she was. And too sexy to be real. Daenerys was beautiful. Inside and out. How the fuck would she ever pick him? Awkward. Working class. Too serious. A mess of hang-ups and neuroses. There was a list of men a mile long who would be lucky to polish her shoes or fetch her tea.      

“Yeah. Why?”

“You’re staring at that wall like it personally offended you.”

“Am I?”

“Yes.”

“Well, I guess I never noticed the crack around the support beam. I’ll have to tell Mrs. Stark to check the foundation.”

“Good to know. You’re a handy man to have around, Mr. Snow,” Daenerys said with a grin. Jon sidled closer to sample a berry. The soft richness of the chocolate exploded on his tongue chased by the berry’s bright sweetness.

“Damn, that’s delicious,” he said. Daenerys smile widened. There was a strawberry seed stuck in one of her perfect teeth. She wrapped her leg around him, drawing him closer.

“Let me taste,” she said, bending to kiss him. Yeah, so good. Soft lips, the faint lingering sweetness of chocolate, the stroke of her tongue. Jon hummed happily into her mouth, hands sliding up the strong grip of her thighs. Velvet-soft skin and so warm. Her hair fell forward around them both like a living veil. Jon cupped her hips, growling as her fingernails delicately scraped his scalp. Daenerys drew his lower lip into her mouth, nibbling gently. The sensation sent blood surging south.

“Yeah, you taste good,” she said with a languid lick below his ear. Jon bit his lip to keep from whimpering. Flirty, dominant Daenerys was a whole new level of sexy. The kiss spun on, Daenerys teased and coaxed him into a fever pitch. Trapped against the counter, his cock twitched, eager for the slick heat of her. Her arms and legs hugged him close, her mouth mapping new paths to pleasure as she kissed and nibbled on his neck.

“Dany,” he breathed, desperate and needy. Daenerys did that thing to his ear with her tongue. Gods, he fucking loved that. Something in him snapped. Jon yanked her hips toward the edge of the counter.

“Lie back.” His accent thickened, his voice was hoarse and rough. Pupils blown wide, lips wet and pink, she looked utterly delectable. Gods, he wanted to devour her. His mouth filled with saliva. She sank back on her elbows on the polished counter, legs spread to welcome him. Jon nudged her thighs wider, breathing deep of her sweet musky smell. Mmm, her nether lips were already glistening from just a kiss. A soft lap opened her. He would never slake his longing for her. As he worked her clit, slowly, patiently, he listened to the music of her whimpers and sighs and incensed breathing. So good. With a sharp cry, she came against his face, awash with lube.

“Jon,” she whimpered, her hands fisted in hanks of his hair. Jon smiled against her pussy, nuzzling her nether lips tenderly. He would exploit his intimate knowledge of her body until she was clawing and begging for his cock. Jon teased her clit with his tongue, feeling her shudder.

“Jon, Jon,” her voice was sharp, cold. Jon looked up at her face, confused. All the lovely color had drained away, now she look pale, scared.

“There’s someone at the door.”

Fuck! Jon whirled around, positioning her directly behind him. The doorknob jiggled.

“Get the gun. Now!”

Daenerys slid off the counter and bounded for the stairs. Jon yanked a knife from the block on the island. Fear doused him like cold water. How was he such a fucking idiot? She was on the run for her life and here he was going down on her in the kitchen without a care in the world with Barry’s gun upstairs. Gods, he could get them both killed—

“Jon? Are you here?” Arya’s voice deflated all his tension. His little sister shouldered her way through the door, laden with plastic bags of takeaway. Outside, he heard the din of the rain, and saw her black truck parked on the circle drive.

“You’ll never believe it, but this fucking cattle truck was jack-knifed on the highway. And somehow the cows got loose and--”

“Arya? Seven fucking hells, you scared me!” Jon said, setting the knife down and moving around the island to help her.

“Dany, false alarm, it’s just Arya!” he called upstairs. Arya glared at him beneath her fringe of wet dark brown hair.

“I called you about a million times. Check your phone!” His phone. Wedged between the couch cushions somewhere. Gods, he was a fucking idiot. Jon glanced toward the stairs. Daenerys would be well within her rights to tell him to fuck all the way off and find a real bodyguard to protect her.

Arya’s grey eyes wandered over the scattered foodstuffs, the faint flickering of firelight, Jon standing awkwardly behind the island. He was decent, at least. That zing of adrenaline had killed any arousal. A catlike grin stretched on Arya’s face.

“You were fucking, weren’t you? Gods, Jon! I knew it! I knew you two were fucking!” Jon lunged for Arya, intent on wrestling her to the ground to shut her up. She danced around the island with ease, giggling.

“Shut up! Gods, Arya. Yes, if you must know, we’re intimate. But shut up about it, yeah?” he said. Arya set down her burden. The potent spice and oil wafting from it made his stomach gurgle. Dothraki barbeque.

“‘Intimate,’ he says. Prig. I can’t wait to tell Gendry. He owes me ten crowns.” Jon cast an aggrieved glance up. Gods save him from little sisters.

“You want me to beg, I’ll beg. Please shut up. She’s been through enough.”

Arya sobered, dragging her fingers through her wet hair.

“Yeah, it’s a tough go. You’re mad for her, aren’t you?” The question brought him up short. Jon swallowed hard.

“I am,” he said quietly. Arya whistled low.

“Does she feel the same?” Jon closed his eyes. Daenerys with the sun shining through her hair, smiling in his bed. Holding her hand in the tense cab ride from the city. The way her mouth formed his name as they made love. Did she?

Gods, he wanted it so bad.

“I . . . I don’t know.”

Arya shrugged, boosting herself up to sit on the counter.

“Have you asked?”

A soft clearing of throat saved him from answering. Daenerys glided down the stairs, dressed now in black leggings and a goldish sweater, the neckline loose enough to bare one shoulder. Barefoot, with her hair a wavy silken waterfall. She looked like something out of the fashion magazines Sansa poured over.

“Hey, sorry if I scared you. I’d phoned Jon I was coming over. I brought food!” Arya said with a charming smile. Daenerys returned the gesture with equal warmth.

“No worries, Jon and I had a movie on. We must have fallen asleep. It’s a pleasure to meet you,” she said with an easy handshake, “Arya, right? Jon’s told me about you.” Arya cast him a sly glance. A touch smug. It said, ‘She’s got your number, Snow.’ And damn if that wasn’t the gods’ honest truth.

“Good things, I hope.”

“Mostly that you’re a bit of a wild card, and could kick his ass seven ways to the sept,” Daenerys said with shy glance his way. Jon slid his hand into hers, hyper-aware of his little sister’s knowing gaze. Daenerys gave his hand a comforting little squeeze. Arya laughed, preening a little.

“That’s definitely true. Gendry—my boyfriend slash manager slash promoter—he says we could get a title shot if my next few fights go well.” Jon’s jaw dropped.

“You’re fighting again? Does your mum know?” he asked. Arya shrugged, her patented gesture when things got a little too uncomfortable—or if her mother came up in conversation. Arya’s desire and skill in the arena were a source of contention between her and her mother. All of her decisions were a source of contention with the formidable Mrs. Stark.

“She doesn’t want to hear about it. I mailed her an invite to my next fight. I hope to see her there. If not, I have a lot of people in my corner.”

Silence fell for a long, uncomfortable beat.  

“Thank you for braving this weather to bring us food,” Daenerys said after a moment, waving a hand to encompass the heavy rain.

Arya snorted, sliding down from the counter to rummage in the fridge for a beer. Deftly popping the cap off on the counter edge, she handed one to Daenerys before taking another for herself. Jon arched a brow at Arya. She grinned in answer, and Jon released Daenerys long enough to nudge behind Arya to snag a bottle of water for himself. No more fucking around. He was on watch. It earned an approving nod from his sister.

“It’s fine. Just a bit of rain. You should see the roads in winter. Sometimes even the snow plows get buried.”

“I’m a city girl. I don’t even have my permit,” Daenerys said as she sipped her beer.

“The north is the best place to learn to drive. Sheep outnumber people five to one,” Arya joked.

“Maybe I’ll learn then,” Daenerys said. She moved toward the bulging plastic sack of food, sniffing appreciatively.

Talk flowed easily as they heaped delicious roasted meat on their plates, redolent with spice. Traditional Dothraki stuff was mostly game, but the spice blend was perfect for beef. Arya told them about her training, her apartment, Gendry. Jon had met him once. Big bloke, a former fighter himself. The pole-axed look he gave Arya told Jon enough. Gendry was made for her.

“Mmm, you have Dothraki barbeque up here?”

“There’s a Dothraki transplant in Winterfell, Quono Riderman. His food is the best,” Jon said.

“I love Dothraki food. I was horse-mad as a kid. Mother hired a riding teacher Irri. She was a stickler for tradition. We’d always go to this authentic Dothraki restaurant after lessons,” Daenerys said. He was aware of Daenerys watching him as he tucked in.

“I’m surprised you can handle it,” Daenerys teased him, laughter in her eyes. A northerner to his core, he had a Westerosi palate. Arya and Daenerys added hot sauce to theirs, while Jon sweated. The meat was good, but gods. His mouth was on fire.

“It tastes great. The salad helps with the spice,” Jon said, trying not to cough. The greens and vegetables were crisp, and the vinegary dressing was cooling. The melty ice cream for dessert was even better, a coffee and chocolate swirl thing that was Arya’s favorite.

“So I hear there’s some bad blokes after you. Tell me about it,” Arya asked as they tidied the dishes. He watched worriedly as Daenerys paused, hands wrist-deep in soapy hot water.

“They call themselves the Harpy Triumvirate. Individuals from the three great cities of the Bay of Dragons: Astapor, Yunkai, and Meereen. I run an anti-trafficking organization called Breaking Chains. They’ve been sending me death threats for years. Only this week they’ve backed up the talk with violence.” The words were cold, clinical. Jon could hear the lawyer paring down the terror and death into impartial facts. Arya whistled low.

“That sucks,” she said. The understatement drew a crooked smile from Daenerys. She glanced at him, a soft, shining look.

“It does suck. But Jon saved me. That day and every day since.” Arya’s grin glowed with pride.

“He’s a good bloke to have around in a sticky spot,” she said.

“He is,” Daenerys said. Seven hells, he was blushing. There was nothing he could say without sounding like a fatuous asshole, so Jon took a long draught from his water bottle.

“Daenerys, I’d be happy to show you a couple things. Just in case.”

Daenerys’ face lit up.

“I would love that.” Both looked to him. Jon lifted his hands.

“I volunteer to finish washing up,” he said. Daenerys chuckled, kissing his cheek in passing. The glancing touch sent little tingles through him. He fancied the spot glowed. Their amiable chatter made him deeply happy. Arya was easy to get along with, but she was also very protective of him. Seeing her get on so well with Daenerys set him at ease. It had been the same subtle feeling when he met and approved of Gendry. Jon washed the dishes, tidied the leftovers, wiped down the countertops and set the kettle aside for tea. An ear turned toward the den heard the murmur of their conversation, punctuated liberally with giggling. With women, giggling was usually a good sign.

Jon tiptoed to the den and peeked in. Arya stood behind Daenerys, one muscular arm locked around her neck, the other pinioning her hands behind her. Gods, Arya’s been training hard. She looks like she’s gained a stone in muscle.

“Ok, so if a fucker’s got you from behind, more than likely he’s gonna feel pretty confident. This hand--” Arya jiggled the one holding Dany’s wrists, “—will more than likely be relaxed, ‘cause he’s got an arm around your throat. So first snap back with your hips, create a little space.” Brow forked in concentration; Dany tried. Biting back a smile, Jon leaned against the doorjamb. It made him crazy to think of Dany having to use Arya’s self-defense techniques, but the demo was important.

“Like that?” she asked.

Arya smile grew broader.

“Yeah yeah, once you do that you break the hold of his hands, you can duck under the arm—yeah like that and rip his junk off.”

“Leave the fucker writhing in pain as you run off,” Jon interjected. Arya had Daenerys repeat the move and its variations on both her and Jon over and over again. After forty-five minutes of training, his shoulders and chest felt a little sore, but he counted it worth it. Daenerys winced as she stood after Arya demonstrating some sort of Yi Tish balance-block move. Arya helped her up, nodding in sympathy.

“My first coach Syrio said every bruise is a lesson, and every lesson makes you better.”

“He sounds like a wise man,” Daenerys said. By consensus, they agreed more training would wait. They collapsed back on the couch. Arya sobered.

“Syrio’s a tough old bastard. He told me there is only one god, and his name is Death. And there is only one thing we say to Death: Not today.”

                                                               ~

 Daenerys and Jon stood on the porch waving to Arya as she drove off into the dusk. The rain had let up slightly, but grey clouds brooded overhead. Daenerys nestled closer to Jon’s side. Even in summer, the evening chill was biting. Jon followed her back inside and together they wordlessly began tidying the remnants of their meal. Despite the late lunch, Arya rummaged through the fridge and insisted on a bit of supper. Robb and Margaery’s choice of lobster was excellent, as was the turtle soup sopped up with oven-warmed bread dripping with butter. Calories didn’t count on the lam.

“Are you sure you’re ok with this?” she asked.

Arya had pointed out rather succinctly that given the odds against them, Jon was outnumbered and outmanned. Winterfell with its high walls, cameras, and hired security were a far better option. Anxiety coiled taut in her belly. A sidelong glance found his brow knitted, a frown flattening the lush curve of his mouth. Jon had been explicit: he wouldn’t risk his family for her sake. Arya had been quick to wave off any concern. The youngest two Bran and Rickon were south for the weekend with their mother visiting Mrs. Stark’s family in the River district. Mr. Stark was in the Storm district on business, Sansa was at uni.

Daenerys buried her hands in the dishwater to hide them shaking. Of course he wouldn’t want her in Winterfell. Even with most of his family away, Arya was still there, who he obviously adored. He had only known her for a week. He owed her nothing. The silence was unbearable.

“Would you say something?” she said sharply. Jon glanced at her, his scowl deepening.

“What?” he asked.

“’What?’” Daenerys repeated, “If you don’t want me to go to Winterfell, just say so. I can find my own way.”  

The words emerged sharper and nastier than she intended, but the thought of being unwanted pricked her deepest insecurities. Her father had wanted another son, Vis had wanted to live without the burden of a little sister, Daario wanted Jeyne. Daenerys chewed on her lower lip, struggling to breathe down the shrieking panic. Jon had become a safe place, a peaceful paradise. Without him, she felt cast adrift, rudderless. Something in his posture stiffened. His dark eyes flashed.

“You want to leave?” he said quietly. No. No, never.

“You’ve done enough. I can--”

“‘Done enough?’ Yeah, nearly gotten you killed, right? Or do you mean fucking you? Was that ‘enough?’” Daenerys flinched as if he’d struck her and shook her head, marching in the direction of the stairs. She would pack up a few things and hike to the nearest petrol station. A phone call to Vis or Jory would be enough.

“Stop, Jon. Now you’re just being nasty.” Jon followed her, dark and thunderous as the stormclouds outside. The bedroom was a wreck, sheets and blankets strewn on the floor from their earlier lovemaking. Tears clogged her throat.

“No, no. Here we are again. Spell it out for me,” Jon said.

“Why are you acting like this? You’re the one who didn’t want me to go to Winterfell!” Daenerys said, her voice climbing to a near shout. Jon matched her in ferocity and volume, squaring off across the bed from her.

“I didn’t know my family was away! If I had, I would have taken you there first!” Daenerys blinked, confused.

“But--”

Jon sat on the edge of the bed with his back to her and raked a hand through his hair.

“Do you realize how fucking stupid I feel about this afternoon?” he said. Daenerys circled the bed to sit beside him. His expression was tortured.

“What if it wasn’t Arya at the door? I could have gotten you killed! You deserve a battalion of guards to keep you safe. If you don’t want a fuck-up for a bodyguard, I get it. If things are too intense and confusing and you’re looking for an easy out, I get it. But don’t ever think it’s because I don’t want you around. That never gonna happen. Get me?” Daenerys choked back a sob. One tear eked free, and Jon smoothed it away with his thumb. The tenderness of the gesture broke her heart.

“I trust you, Jon. I trust you. And I don’t want to go anywhere without you.” I love you. How she wished she was brave enough to say those words.

“We’ll go to Winterfell in the morning. Together,” she said, taking his hand and pressing kisses on the back.

“Together,” Jon said, drawing her close for a kiss.

Perhaps it was the thought of separation, or the fact that privacy would be scarce in Winterfell, but passion boiled quick and sweet. Sensation blurred. Mm, Jon’s dark, worshipful gaze, long, drinking kisses, undressing her as if she was something fragile and precious. She let her touch speak for her, writing words of love on his body. They moved together, a gentle, timeless eternity. Climax washed over her in deep spasms. Jon followed her soon after, panting her name against her neck. They drowsed in the tub together, fell asleep in each other’s arms.

A beam of sunlight woke her. She squinted at the aperture of the curtains, and the sun-dappled blur of greenery beyond. Behind her, Jon snuffled in his sleep. The arm draped around her twitched. Daenerys kissed him awake.

“Good morning,” she whispered. Jon cracked open one eye.

“‘Mornin,’” he rumbled.

“Go back to sleep. I’ll make tea.”

“M’kay,” he said, already drifting off.

She slid from bed, stretching. Gods, with Jon she slept better than she ever had. Braiding her hair and dressing in clean clothes made her feel ready to greet the day. The burner phone buzzed on the nightstand. She snagged it, creeping into the hallway so as not to disturb Jon. Good, she needed to talk to Vis.

“Hello, Daenerys.” The smooth voice was unfamiliar. Fear sang through her.

“Who is this?” she whispered.

“Where are my manners? My name is Ramsay Bolton. Now, you naughty girl, look at your boytoy.”

“What—Where--?”

“Look.” Daenerys looked at Jon, asleep in bed, a red laser dot floating on his forehead. Oh gods.

“Now listen very carefully.”          

[chattering-magpie-uk]

Peter Pan (Derby) 2019

In December of 2019 I had the pleasure of attending an afternoon performance of Peter Pan, at the Derby Arena or Velodrome on Pride Park, in Derby. It was the first time I had visited this multipurpose facility and unusual for such venues, its atmosphere was somewhat less 'empty' than others. It is both fashionable and convenient for councils today, to build multipurpose public buildings, rather than purpose built venues such as theatres. This is not always a success as many venues are big empty spaces, lacking in ambiance.

 The velodrome, a rather unusual looking building on the outside, was rather more welcoming in design and convenience than I expected. Inside the temporary seating was laid out in a sensible manner, with an easily accessible raised area to complement the stalls. All very much an improvement on the cramped seating of the now defunct Derby Assembly Rooms. A building that due to fire damage still remains closed, years after the original incident.

 Pantomime for those unfamiliar with the term, is not a mime. It is not a silent art-form and pitched in particular at the younger audience, is often a loud raucous affair. The precise origins of pantomime are unclear. Did they originate as Medieval mummers plays or as more comedic alternatives to the Passion Plays? Are they pre or post Shakespeare and Marlowe? The 'Panto' to use the short colloquial form, does have heritage and tradition. The Pantomime is rich in both. It is an important part of the cultural and theatrical tradition of Britain, yet sadly it is often dismissed as something lesser.

 The 'Panto' tradition is often puzzling, the juvenile lead or principle boy, is often portrayed by a female performing as a male. This character in many stories marries the female lead and they live happily ever after. This has nothing at all to do with sexual orientation in any modern environment. The origins lie back in the times when women could not perform in the theatre.

 The origins of the Dame, a man acting the part of a woman, are very likely to be similar if not identical. They are both part of the 'cross dressing' tradition found within British theatrical entertainment. This includes transvestite performers manifesting as Widow Twanky in Aladdin, Arthur Lucan's famous Old Mother Riley and in such famous plays as Charlie's Aunt. In more recent years we have seen the same phenomenon in the theatre and on film in 'Hairspray.'

 Peter Pan as a Pantomime is a fairly recent addition to the traditional repertoire of the thespian. This creation of  J.M Barrie first appeared in a short story published in 1902 and the character was expanded further in a series of works over the next decade. In 1929 Barrie left the royalties in perpetuity to Great Ormond Street (Children's) Hospital in London. An act of enormous generosity and benefit.

 The majority of Pantomimes are based on traditional stories, legends and folktales. These include Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella and the famous Dick Whittington. Peter Pan originating as a short story in Edwardian times is younger even than Treasure Island, originally based on a serialised story published in 1881. What this illustrates quite profoundly, is that the Pantomime is not a static phenomenon but an ever changing performance art.

 This new adaption of Peter Pan was the brain child of Morgan Brind; who also played Aunt Hilda, the Dame of the show. The production directed by Tim Ford, included characters familiar to the audience but also a few new additions. Captain Hook was played with joyful menace by Bill Ward, a well known television name. Having grown a beard for the part, he made an excellent villain and clearly relished every scene.

 Another television name is Katrina Bryan who successfully captured the emotional overload of the fairy-folk, playing Tinker Bell as a being of reaction and jealously. The children were played with style. They were led by the charming Rebecca Brierley as Wendy, ably complemented by Thomas Grant; who as a male and in a break from 'tradition' portrayed Peter Pan. Nana the Dog should of course not be ignored as it was an outstanding performance, played by an actor clearly destined for greater roles. Possibly with the RSC.

 Two new characters are worthy of note. Mary Darling and Marilyn the Mermaid were performed by the delightful Abigail Finlay. Playing two roles gave this actress the opportunity to show her grasp of the Northern Accent and display the most remarkable Mermaid wiggle. Quick Draw Macraw, a parrot belonging to Hook but whose real loyalty lay with Pan, was played with outstanding charm by Richard Brindley.

 Brindly and Brind as Quick Draw Macraw and the Panto Dame, formed the primary double act of the show. Engaging in assorted jokes, antics and slapstick, these two fine performers proved themselves to be ideally suited to their partnership. They skilfully complemented the rest of the cast, the plot and the musical numbers with a studied performance.

 The only fly in the ointment were the political jokes aimed at the adult members of the audience. Coming so soon after the General Election these jokes were never going to please everyone and they did not. They actually fell so flat that they pleased no one. The audience was clearly a divided one, half may have voted Conservative and half Labour. Half may have voted Remain and half Leave. A joke at the expense of one half of the audience would solicit some embarrassed laughter but also equal groans. People had come to be entertained, we were in search of escapism. The political comment was unwelcome and was perhaps inappropriate.

 Truthfully Peter Pan was something of a spectacle. Not at all over the top, Pantomimes can easily drift that way but instead pitched just about right. It was well written, it was well directed and very well performed. Every actor and importantly every dancer in the chorus, knew their parts and played as part of a team. My final thoughts are very simple. This adaption and performance of J.M. Barrie's Peter Pan, was the best Pantomime I have ever seen.

[hardcorehardigan]

Rachel Marie on Facebook 

July 25, 2021

Tom Hardy & I 🥰

honestly I had no idea he was going to be there 2nd day in a row, he was right next to me in the bumper cars 🤣 I was like “omg… wtf!!! Nooooo way!!!”Xxx

had no idea he would be there! Bumped into him on the bumper cars xxxx

via Rachel Marie

[uneminuteparseconde]

Des concerts à Paris et alentour en gras : les derniers ajouts :-: in bold: the last news Octobre 21. Pawns + Youth Avoiders + Barren? – Espace B 21. Les morts vont bien + Rivière de corps + René Couteau + Razzle Dazzle (dj) (Obernoir fest.) – L'International 21. Gâtechien + Wallack + Baron Crâne – ESS'pace 22. White Ring + Ghoster + Dalhia – Supersonic (gratuit) 22. Carambolage + Deedee & Tha Abracadabras + Roger de Lille & The Gin Tonics + The Hare (dj) (Obernoir fest.) – L'International 22. Thurston Moore – Trabendo 22. David J – Petit Bain 23. Ecstatic Vision + Les Tigres du futur + Os Noctambulos – ESS'pace 23. Sly & The Family Drone + Stef Ketteringham + Decimus + Dust Breeders – Espace B 23. Plomb + Je t'aime + Electric Press Kit + dj Oxblood (Obernoir fest.) – L'International 23. Tamara Goukassova + Fun Fun Funeral + Kassie Krut  – La Station 23. Four Tet – Le 104 ||COMPLET|| 24. Last Night + Negative Space + Pedigree + Buzz Kull + Sydney Valette + dj Dave Rockin (Obernoir fest.) – L'International 24. Çub + Ayya + Radiant – Le Cirque électrique 24. The Necks – La Marbrerie (Montreuil) 25. A Certain Ratio + Empereur – Petit Bain 25. Poutre + OK fdp + Bruant zizi – ESS'pace 25. Fiesta en el Vacio + Axell Larsen + Franz France + Sinead O'Connick jr + Paroi (Serendip Lab fest.) – Jazz y Jazz 25. Catastrophe + Sean O'Hagan + Form – La Maroquinerie 25. Curses + Sophie Morello + Tonn3rr3 + E for Ears & Grāv Jōnz + Trusspe – La Station 25. Dave Philips +  Bernardino Femminielli & Thea Govorchin – 3 rue de Tournant (Aubervilliers) 25. Blind Delon + Nick klein + UVB 76 + Dress Rehearsal + Little Nemo + L’An2000 [DaGeist + Outer Limit Lotus : ANNULÉ] (Obernoir fest.) – L'International 25. Automat + Stephanovitch + Cirylux + Worker Poor + Stef Mazet + Taiko Nova – Les 4 éléments 25. Varsovie + Paulie Jan + Blndr b2b Panzer + Mind Matter + End of Mortal Life – Glazart 25. Jozef Van Wissem – Crypte Notre-Dame de la Croix (sur résa : jvwparis[@]gmail.com) ||COMPLET||   25. Bestial Mouth + Veil of Light – Protocol (Pantin) ||ANNULÉ|| 25. Orphx + O/H + December + Unhuman + Limbus Puerorum – Protocol (Pantin) ||ANNULÉ|| 26. The Monochrome Set + The Last Detail – Petit Bain 26. Nina Harker + Bianca Warlord + Amour Formica – Le Zorba 26. Truckks + Terrier + Achab + Olive Pogo + Car Crash Control (dj) (Obernoir fest.) – L'International 26. The Wheal + Princesse Napälm + L'Orchidée Cosmique + Klymt (Obernoir fest.) – L'International 26. Femminielli + dj Sundae + ANDCL + Oko – Petit Palace 26. Joachim Montessuis + Martin Bakero – Galerie Metanoïa 26. Rouge Mary + Regina Demina + AZF + Léonie Pernet (dj) + Juke + Morello – Point FMR 26/27. Ilya Smirnov + Christophe de Rohan Chabot + nikolaiykm + Natalya Serkova – 3 rue de Tournant (Aubervilliers) (sur RV : nikolaiykm[@]gmail.com)   26. Mørbeck + Philipp Strobel + IV Horsemen – La Machine 26. Alignment + Hadone + UVB + Parfait + Repro – tba 26. Loto Retina + Jakub Lemiszewski + Somaticae + Le Compas dans l'oeil + Ahta Bat + Letal Ataraxia (Serendip Lab fest.) – Le Sultan 27. Laurent Garnier + Deena Abdelwahed – Dehors brut 27. Stephen Mallinder + Laisse Moi + Hexenschuss (Obernoir fest.) – L'International 28. Kate Tempest – Le Trianon 29. Danse avec les Shlags – Le Motel (gratuit) 29. Agent Side Grinder + DaGeist – La Boule noire 29. Pauwels + Mr Marcaille + BOB Cooper – L'ESS'pace 30. The White Screen + Techno Thriller + Novichok – Supersonic (gratuit) 30. Oiseaux-Tempête + Jessica Moss – La Maroquinerie 30. Jenny Hval – Centre Pompidou 30. Battles – Trabendo 30. Dame Area + Slaylor Moon + Noir de Maars– Espace B 31. Skepta + Mura Masa + Hamza + Zola + Ateyaba + Celeste + Duendita + Ezra Collective + Flohio + Kojey Radical + Master Peace + Slowthai + The Comet is Coming + Yussef Dayes + Charlotte Dos Santos + Kojaque (Pitchfork fest.) – La Grande Halle de La Villette 31. Arrington de Dionyso – Instants chavirés (Montreuil) 31. Broken English Club + Cabaret nocturne + IV Horsemen + Gil. Barte – Petit Bain Novembre 01. Chromatics + Belle & Sebastian + Primal Scream + John Talabot + Weyes Blood + Barrie + Briston Maroney + Chai + Desire + Helado Negro + Jackie Mendoza + Nilüfer Yanya + Orville Peck + Sheer Mag + Squir + Loving + Nelson Beer + Sons of Raphael (Pitchfork fest.) – La Grand Halle de La Villette 01. Park Hie Jin + HAAI + Afrodeutsche + Nite Fleit (Pitchfork fest. after party) – Trabendo 01. Meconio + Mamachi + Punaises + Areva (LaDIYfest) – Le Cirque électrique 01. Imperial Black Unit + Mekano + CH-01 + Krase b2b Alphonse Fassaert – Petit Bain 01. Under Black Helmet b2b Hadone + Inhalt der Nacht b2b Echoes of October + Danilo Incorvala + Makornik + Félicie – Les Docks de Paris (La Plaine-Saint-Denis) 02. The 1975 + Charli XCX + 2manysdj (dj) + Aurora + Agar Agar + SebastiAn + Aeris Roves vs Jamila Woods + Jessica Pratt + Kedr Livanskiy + Korantemaa + BEA1991 + Caroline Polachek + Ela Minus + KhadyaK + Mk.gee + Oklou + Tobi Lou (Pitchfork fest.) – La Grand Halle de La Villette 02. Volt + Vicious Irene + U.R.S.A + Gertrude + Kalicia Katakov (LaDIYfest) – Le Cirque électrique 03. Whispering Sons – Point FMR 03. Ensemble économique + CIA débutante – Le Chinois (Montreuil) 05. Body of Light + Dead Mascot + Boy Scoot Hopkins – Supersonic (gratuit) 05. Ceremony – Espace B 05. Dear Deer + Traitrs + Men in disorder – L'International 06. The Murder Capital – Nouveau Casino 06. Scattered Purgatory + Qian Geng + UVB76 + ruò tán – Le Cirque électrique 06. Minus Pilot + GNG + Thomas Stone + Kevin Buckland – Café de Paris 06. Mont Analogue + Les Halles + Bravo Tounky – Garage Mu 06. Guitar Wolf + School Disco – Gibus 06. Glacial – Instants chavirés (Montreuil) 07. Camilla Sparksss + Hyperculte [+ Xiu Xiu : ANNULÉ] – Petit Bain 07. Kælan Mikla – La Boule noire 07. Randomer + Parallx + Parfait – Glazart 08. Bedroom Community – Cité de la musique|Philharmonie 08. Part Chimp + Gnod + Hey Colossus – Petit Bain 08. Sourdurent + Raymonde – Pan Piper 08. Jad Wio + Love in Prague – Gibus 08. Jennifer Cardini b2b Gerd Janson + Mouse on Mars + Fantastic Twins + Oko DJ (10 ans d’Arte concert) – La Machine (gratuit sur invitation) 08. Crystal Geometry + Monya + Size Pier + Kaya + Sina XX – La Station 08. Boy Harscher – Trabendo ||COMPLET|| 09. Trotski nautique (20 ans de l’Omadis) – Omadis (gratuit) 09. Molchat Doma + War Scenes – La Station 09. Fleuves Noirs + Thank + Drive with a dead girl + Panico Panico – Le Rigoletto 09. Leroy se meurt + Staatseinde – Le Zorba 09. Kwartz + ABSL + Toscan Haas – Glazart 10. Amiina : cinéconcert sur "Fantomas" de Louis Feuillade – Le Studio|Philharmonie 10. Ôlafur Arnald + Hugar – Salle Pierre Boulez|Philharmonie 10. Fontaine D.C. – Bataclan 12. Deerhunter + Moon Diagrams – Trabendo 12. Up-Tight + Officine – Instants chavirés (Montreuil) 13. Mick Harvey & JP Silo, Steve Shelley, Glenn Lewis – Les Trois Baudets 14. Dinah Bird & Jean-Philippe Renoult (Inaudible Matters) – La Gaîté lyrique 14. Girl Band + Silverbacks – La Maroquinerie 14. Automatisme + Lacustre (Sulfure fest.) – Le vent se lève 14. Manni Dee + Remco Beekwilder + Mental Infection – Glazart 14. Stella Chiweshe + Is a Fish – Instants chavirés (Montreuil) 15. Von Pariahs + Nursery – Point FMR 15. Tendra Ael + City Dragon + Meryll Ampe + Divisas – La Pointe Lafayette 15. Chemical Brothers – Seine musicale (Boulogne-Billancourt) 15. Kap Bambino – La Gaîté lyrique ||ANNULÉ|| 15. Karenn + 16H07 + Antigone... (Big Bang Festival) – Les Docks de Paris 16. Kas:st + Agoria + Bambounou b2b François X + Charles Kenkler + Matrixxman + Remcord...(Big Bang Festival) – Les Docks de Paris 17. Nitzer Ebb + Liebknecht – La Machine 17. Tropical Fuck Storm – Badaboum 18. Omni + The Gotobeds + Pleasure Principle – La Boule noire 18. Surf Curse + edgar déception + Fiasco – Supersonic (gratuit) 19. Earth + Helen Money – Petit Bain 20. Lucy Railton + Sean Baxter + Jessica Ekomane – Instants chavirés (Montreuil) 21. Cate Le Bon + Grimm Grimm – Petit Bain 21. Haco + Emiko Ota avec KiriSute Gomen – Studio Campus 21. Vincent Ségal, Clément Saunier, Odile Auboin, Jossalyn Jessen et Gilbert Nouno jouent des pièces de Peter Eötvös, Yan Maresz, Gilbert Nouno et Fausto Romitelli (fest. Innovasounds) – Le 104 21>23. Nosfell : “Le Corps des songes” (fest. New Settings) – Théâtre de la Cité internationale 22. eRikm + Franck Vigroux & Antoine Schmitt : “Chronostasis” (fest. Innovasounds) – Le 104 22. Rubin Steiner + Dombrance + Ambeyance + Meteo Mirage – La Maroquinerie 22. Nursery + Casse Gueule + Tout de suite – Cirque électrique 22. Kazu Makino (Blonde Redhead) – Les Étoiles 22. Drew McDowall – tbc 23. Franck Vigroux & Kurt d’Haeseleer : “The Island (part. 1)” + Cinna Peyghamy (fest. Bruits blancs) – La Muse en circuit (Alfortville) (gratuit sur résa) 23. Trio Sacher + Ensemble intercontemporain (fest. Innovasounds) – Le 104 23. Billy Childish + Le Villejuif Undergroud + Petausaure (fest. BBmix) – Carré Bellefeuille (Boulogne-Billancourt) 23. 999999999 + Jawbreakrs + Nico Moreno + Perc + Sentimental Rave + Softcoresoft + Trym + Parfait + UR trax – tba 24. TR/ST – Le Trianon 24. Mdou Moctar – La Boule noire 24. Midori Takada + Carla dal Forno + Felicia Atkinson (fest. BBmix) – Carré Bellefeuille (Boulogne-Billancourt) 24. The Young Gods + Les Tétines noires – La Machine 26. Wardruna – Olympia 27. Poly-Math + Bruit ≤ + Maven – Supersonic (gratuit) 27. The Stranglers – Olympia 27. Silly Joy + Raskolnikov + Jupiter Jane – L’International 27. Le Singe blanc + Double Nelson + Putavelo – Le Cirque électrique 27. Hélène Breschand, Tarek Atoui & Cécile Mont-Reynaud : “Pandore” + Ensemble Motus joue Tony Conrad et Elsa Biston (fest. Bruits blancs) – Anis Gras (Arcueil) 28. The Psychotic Monks – Trabendo 28. Artl + Powerdove – Petit Bain 28. Derek Holzer : “Vector Synthesis” + Cate Hope & Lisa McKinney : “Super Liminum” + Antoine Schmitt & Hortense Gauthier : “CliMax” (fest. Bruits blancs) – Le Cube (gratuit sur résa) ||COMPLET|| 29. Scanner – Nouveau Théâtre de Montreuil 29. Ulrich Krieger : “Raw” + Cellule d’intervention Metamkine (fest. Bruits blancs) – La Muse en circuit (Alfortville) 30. Mondkopf – Médiathèque musicale de Paris (gratuit) 30. Donato Dozzy + Max Cooper + Terry & Cyan Riley + Ensemble intercontemporain joue "Drumming" de Steve Reich + Ensemble Social Silence joue "Music for Airport" de Brian Eno + Apollo noir + Récital pour marimbas (Marathon fest.) – La Gaîté lyrique 30. Aidan Baker & BOW Quintet + SEPL (Sulfure fest.) – Le vent se lève 30. Ulrich Krieger + Natacha Muslera + Julien Desprez + Eryck Abecassis + Sylvaine Hélary avec Clyde Chabot, Jean Cagnard, Ismaël Jude, Nathalie Papin et Michel Simonot (fest. Bruits blancs) – Anis Gras (Arcueil) Décembre 01. Motorama – La Maroquinerie 03. White Hills – Supersonic (gratuit) 03. Belgrado – Espace B 06. Phillip Glass Ensemble : cinéconcert sur "Koyaanisqatsi" de Godfrey Reggio – Salle Pierre Boulez|Philharmonie 06. Answer Code Request + Regis + Raslan b2b Yoannis – La Seine musicale (Boulogne-Billancourt) 07. Phillip Glass Ensemble : cinéconcert sur "Powaqqatsi" de Godfrey Reggio – Salle Pierre Boulez|Philharmonie 07. Kokoko! – La Gaîté lyrique 07. I Hate Models – tba 08. Phillip Glass Ensemble : cinéconcert sur "Naqoyqatsi" de Godfrey Reggio – Salle Pierre Boulez|Philharmonie 08. Mark Lanegan Band + The Membranes – Le Trianon 11. Boris – Le Gibus 12. Mono + Jo Quail – Petit Bain 12. Kompromat (Vitalic & Rebeka Warrior) – La Cigale 13. Contrefaçon – La Gaîté lyrique 13. Regards extrêmes + Lisieux + Ascending divers – Les Voûtes 14. Ludwig Von 88 – Le Trianon 18. Amenra – Bataclan 2020 Janvier 04. Rokia Traoré + Ballaké Cissoko & Vincent Segal – Salle Pierre Boulez|Philharmonie 16. Black Midi – Le Carreau du Temple 17. Edith Nylon – Petit Bain 17. Scratch Massive + Lokier + Cassie Raptor + Faast + Kiddo – Badaboum 18. Lee Ranaldo & Raül Refree – Le 104 18. Franck Vigroux : "Flesh" (Biennale Nemo) – Maison des arts et de la culture (Créteil) 29. Rendez-Vous – La Cigale 30. Editors – Salle Pleyel 31. Tindersticks – Salle Pleyel Février 02. Sunn o))) – La Gaîté lyrique 09. Explosions in the Sky – La Cigale 13. Ride – Le Trianon 16. Orchestral Manoeuvre in the Dark – La Cigale 21. Ensemble Links joue "Drumming" de Steve Reich + Cabaret contemporain : "Détroit" + Molécule – Le 104 24. Sleater Kinney – Le Trianon Mars 02. DIIV – La Gaîté lyrique 05. Orange Blossom : “Sharing” avec les machines de François Delarozière – Élysée Montmartre 06. Frustration – Le Trianon 07. Ensemble intercontemporain joue Steve Reich : cinéconcert sur un film de Gerhard Richter – Salle Pierre Boulez|Philharmonie 10. Arnaud Rebotini : live pour “Fix Me” d’Alban Richard – Centre des Arts (Enghien-les-Bains) 11. Nada Surf – La Cigale 13. Russian Circle + Torche – Bataclan 17. Chelsea Wolf – La Gaîté lyrique 20. Ensemble Dedalus joue "Occam Ocean" d'Éliane Radigue – Le Studio|Philharmonie 21. Front 242 + She Past Away – Élysée Montmartre 21/22. Laurie Anderson : "The Art of Falling" – Cité de la musique|Philharmonie 27. Lebanon Hanover – La Gaîté lyrique 28. Ensemble Links joue "Drumming" de Steve Reich + Cabaret contemporain joue Kraftwerk – théâtre de la Cité internationale Avril 14>17. Metronomy – La Cigale 27. Caribou – L’Olympia Mai 08. Max Richter : "Infra" + Jlin + Ian William Craig – Cité de la musique|Philharmonie 09. Max Richter : "Voices" – Salle Pierre Boulez|Philharmonie 10. Max Richter : "Recomposed" & "Three Worlds" – Salle Pierre Boulez|Philharmonie 19. Swans + Norman Westberg – Le Trabendo 23. Damon Albarn – Salle Pierre Boulez|Philharmonie 24. Damon Albarn – Salle Pierre Boulez|Philharmonie ||COMPLET|| 26. Minimal Compact – La Machine Juin 14. Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds – Bercy Arena

[marvelousmatt]

Review: In ‘Shadows,’ on FX, Laid-Back Vampires Return for Another Bite

By James Poniewozik March 26, 2019

A key difference between movies and TV series is their relation to mortality. When a movie becomes a TV series, the creators must adapt a finite story into one that can unfold indefinitely. A movie, as a rule, must complete a world; a series must keep building one. A movie must end (at least until the sequel); a TV series must proceed as if it might never die.

“What We Do in the Shadows,” beginning Wednesday on FX, has an advantage on that last front, and not just because its characters, a gang of eccentric vampire housemates, are already dead. The 2015 movie, from Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi, already played like a tight, brief season of TV, in the most pleasurable way.

The mockumentary, about a group of bloodsucking ancients navigating modern life in Wellington, New Zealand, was driven more by character than plot, much like a hangout sitcom. Like Clement’s “Flight of the Conchords,” it had a deadpan — rather, undeadpan — sensibility and a penchant for characters who were less cool than they imagined themselves.

The FX version recasts and relocates to America while retaining the core premise. Staten Island, apparently the New Zealand of the tristate area, is now home base for Nandor the Relentless (Kayvan Novak), a medieval Ottoman warrior; Laszlo (Matt Berry), a Romantic-era English dandy; and Nadja (Natasia Demetriou), Laszlo’s rapacious old flame and now hunting partner with benefits. (Clement and Waititi, who co-starred in the film, each write and direct several episodes.)

Having undead roommates, it turns out, is just like having mortal ones, except that you have all eternity to get on one another’s nerves. Early in the premiere, the anxious, fussy Nandor holds a meeting to deal with housekeeping issues, such as the problem of people leaving their guests sitting around half-drunk. (In this case, it means that they’ve been half-drunk.)

Rounding out the house is Colin (Mark Proksch), an “energy vampire” who drains people’s life forces rather than their blood, usually by drawing his officemates into long, boring conversations. So far, in the four episodes provided for review, it’s one of the less-successful additions to the story, a one-joke premise that “Saturday Night Live” might have done as an overlong sketch.

The series focuses more than the film did on the “familiars”: humans who serve as personal assistants to vamps in hopes of someday getting the neck-bite of immortality. Guillermo (Harvey Guillén), an earnest nerd, is tasked with procuring the group virgins (“It’s their favorite food!”), whom he sources locally by finding a college medieval LARP (live-action role-playing) group. One member, Jenna (Beanie Feldstein), takes the vampires to be LARPers themselves.

Which, in a sense, they are. A bit like the Chechen mobsters in HBO’s “Barry,” the vamps of “Shadows” seem to be cosplaying themselves, comically performing a received, pop-culture idea of scary-sexiness. (Nandor prepares himself for a special occasion by putting on body glitter, “like ‘Twilight’!”)

In reality, they’re underachievers, more bark than bite. (There is some bite, though, the episodes of violence played for over-the-top, blood-spritzing slapstick effect.) When an ancient overlord shows up to find out why the Staten Island vampires haven’t yet conquered the new world, it provides the (presumably) ongoing story line for the series.

As in the film version, the action is captured by a documentary film crew, though the device recedes more into the background (as it did in long-running mockumentary series like “Modern Family” and “Parks and Recreation”).

But the series retains the screwball-vérité look established in the film by Clement and Waititi, combining naturalistic shaky-cam with exaggerated levitation effects. In an age of inkily-lit cable dramas, this is the rare series where the nighttime palette actually makes sense.

The big question early on is whether most of the best jokes have already been told. The vampires’ feud with an aggro band of werewolves played out better in the film, which focused on the lycanthropes’ embarrassed efforts to control their transformations. But the show comes together in the fourth episode, in which the housemates trek to a nightclub in Manhattan — “Manhatta” in Laszlo’s archaic tongue — to impress a sleazy downtown vampire (Nick Kroll).

If “Shadows” doesn’t seem entirely necessary, it’s perfectly fun. Its pleasures are in the goofy details, like the way Laszlo exclaims “Bat!” as he transforms into one, or the vampire nightclub in which the equivalent of bottle service is waiters carrying a human body on a bed of ice.

I’m still not sure whether there’s a long run of TV in this resurrected premise. But there seem to be some tasty drops left before it’s entirely sucked dry.

[tomhardymyking]

The place, people around him, the day, or the moment... Are not important. Only he is important, and everything else stays in the background. That's all. 💝

No importa el lugar, no importa la gente de alrededor, no importa el día, ni el momento... Sólo importa él, y todo lo demás queda en segundo plano. Eso es todo. 💝

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📸: helloimemma (Instagram)⠀|⠀📍: Barry Island Pleasure Park (Barry, Wales ¦ Barry, Gales)⠀|⠀📅: 25 07 2021