#victoria turner icons

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[bitter69uk]

Who’s up for some “diva worship”? My quick review of the Diva exhibit at The Victoria & Albert Museum (my boyfriend Pal, our friend Fenella and I went on Sunday 27 August). The first floor (featuring early divas of opera, stage, silent cinema and golden age Hollywood) is a treasure trove. Things fall apart somewhat on the second floor, which brings us to the present day and the concept of “diva” seems to stretch to any random modern female pop star with a vaguely “empowering” message (or at least the ones who’ve loaned outfits for the exhibit. Let’s be grateful at least that Taylor Swift and Dua Lipa weren’t included. I wonder if the V&A regrets the emphasis on Lizzo given her current blizzard of bad publicity and legal woes). We could all bicker about our personal favourites not being featured, but it feels like glaring omissions that Marlene Dietrich and Madonna are barely represented (surely the Cinema Museum in Berlin could have loaned a Dietrich costume from their permanent collection?). And Eartha Kitt is represented by just an album cover! If they’re going to declare Elton John, Freddie Mercury, Prince and Lil Nas x honorary “male divas”, then why not include Divine, who was a diva of both cult cinema and hi-NRG disco?

Conclusion: The Diva exhibit is enjoyable but ultimately superficial and best approached as “eye candy”. It’s on until 7 April 2024.

Pictured: the “flame dress” Bob Mackie - maestro of the strategically placed sequin! - designed for soul queen Tina Turner to wear onstage in 1977. Want to see more? Here's my lavishly-illustrated scene report!

[junkyard-gifs]

have you heard about this ballroom-style production happening in nyc this summer? i'm so intrigued!

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C6EnK7xuf8_/

Yes! It's been on my radar for a while though I don't think I've posted anything about it yet - at least, I haven't decided on a tag for the production.

Honestly, going by my usual tagging system it should probably be '2024 pac' or '2024 nyc' but. For these guys. I sort of want to name it after its most prominent attribute which is. '2024 ballroom' 😌

Anyway have a promo clip, from their official insta, and some random cast photos out of costume.

(We don't have a lot of costume photos yet but we do know that these Jellicles will be fully humans, not feline: they are people existing within the ballroom cultural milieu of the period and 'jellicle cats' is just the pride name they use for themselves and each other. So if you strongly prefer your cats as cats, this might not be the show for you—but it's certainly a show that speaks to somebody else!)

(Also I'm just really enjoying the flurry of excitement from former Jellicles in comments on this production's posts.)

Dudney Joseph: Munkustrap (Emcee) (he/him).

Dava Huesca: Rumpelteazer (she/her)

Jonathan Burke: Mungojerrie (he/him)

Andre Deshields: Deuteronomy

Sydney Harcourt: Rum Tum Tugger

Baby: Victoria

Choreographers Arturo Lyons and Omari Wiles. (Obvs we're not going with Dame Gilly's choreo here.)

"A radical reimagining of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic musical based on T. S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats. Inspired by the Ballroom culture that roared out of New York City over 50 years ago and still rages around the world. Staged as a spectacularly immersive competition by Zhailon Levingston (Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, Chicken & Biscuits) and PAC NYC Artistic Director Bill Rauch (All the Way), with all-new Ballroom and club beats, runway-ready choreography, and an edgy eleganza makeover that moves the action from junkyard to catwalk.  Come one, come all, and celebrate the joyous transformation of self at the heart of Cats and Ballroom culture itself." (X)

[turneradora]

victoriasmurfit Iconic shoot with @bazaaruk with the divine Mr Turner in current mag now! #rivals @happyprincetv @disneyplusuk Glorious to be scrubbed clean and shot by @philipsinden chatting to @charlotteabrook styled by #graceClark

Thanks to Victoria Smurfit for her post on Instagram with my edit, I am very happy !..

Both look so amazing, they are a wonderful couple (Maud and Declan)

Can’t wait anymore to see Rivals

[timuschaos]

+ faceclaim directory

Abigail Cowen avatars

Adèle Exarchopoulos avatars

Alba Flores avatars ; icons

Álvaro Morte avatars

Andy Blossom avatars

Anna Sawai avatars

Ayumi Roux avatars

Ben Whishaw avatars ; avatars ; avatars ; avatars ; avatars ; avatars ; avatars ; avatars

Bright Vachirawit avatars

Christopher Briney avatars ; icons

Cillian Murphy avatars ; icons

Dichen Lachman avatars

Emily Blunt avatars

Emma D'Arcy avatars

Eva Green avatars

Freddy Carter avatars

Gauge Burek avatars ; icons

Gillian Anderson avatars

Hunter Schafer avatars

Iffat Marashi avatars

Imaan Hammam avatars

Jimmi Simpson avatars

Joshua Dun avatars

John Cameron Mitchell avatars

Kathryn Newton avatars

Kim Jennie avatars

Lily-Rose Depp avatars

Liv Tyler avatars

Lucas Jade Zumann avatars ; icons

Meta Gewald avatars ; icons

Milly Alcock avatars

Nicola Coughlan avatars

Oliver Stark avatars

Swann Arlaud avatars ; avatars ; avatars

Viggo Mortensen avatars

Yuka Mannami avatars

+ codes

Signatures #1 ; #2

+ icons

Castle #1

Stars #1

+ to do

& (suggestions are open)

Agyness Deyn

Alin Szewczyk

Alycia Debnam Carey

Amita Suman

Anar Khalilov (Анар Халилов)

Andrew Lincoln

Andy Biersack

Anya Taylor Joy

Arsema Thomas

Assad Zaman

Bae Doona

Benedetta Porcaroli

Brianne Howey

Brigette Lundy-Paine

Camila Mendes

Chappell Roan

Ella Purnell 

Emma Mackey

Emma Myers

Evgeny Schwartz

David Harbour

Flavie Delangle

François Civil

Gwendoline Christie

Harry Collett

Helena Bonham Carter

Ian McKellen

Joe Keery

Katy O'Brian

Keira Knightley

Kristen Stewart

Lauren de Graaf

Lizeth Selene

Luca Hollestelle

Lucas Lynggaard Tønnesen

Luke Hemmings

Madelaine Petsch

Mads Mikkelsen

Margaret Qualley

Marilyn Lima

Mason Alexander Park

Matthew Grey Gubler

Matt Smith

Maya Hawke

Michael Sheen

Natalie Dormer

Natalia Dyer 

Natasha O'Keeffe

Ncuti Gatwa

Noah Saavedra

Noen Eubanks

Norman Reedus

Oli Sykes

Olivia Osby

Otto Seppalainen

Pedro Pascal

Penn Badgley

Rahul Kohli

Raymond Ablack 

Robin Migné

Ruby Cruz

Sadie Sink

Sandra Oh

Sarah Snook

Simone Ashley

Sophie Thatcher

Sophie Turner

Stefani Germanotta (Lady Gaga)

Tamino Amir

Tati Gabrielle

Tia Jonsson

Tilda Swinton

Timothée Chalamet

Tom Hiddleston

Tuppence Middleton

Victoria Pedretti

Zendaya Coleman

Zoë Kravitz

[victorluvsalice]

Sims 4 Wednesday -- Potential Tiny Town Challenge

Hi all! As we're between Chill Valicer Save updates this week, I wanted to talk to you about something I discovered relatively recently and have been thinking about off and on -- The Tiny Town Challenge! I first learned about this challenge through seeing a thumbnail for James Turner's version on YouTube, and, curious, tracked down the original challenge and rules to see what it was all about. You can get the full rule set and take a look at the original lot and Sims Deligracy created at the link above, but the basic gist is that you spend the challenge setting up a tiny town on a large lot (preferably 64x64) for seven Sims. Each Sim has a specific money-making skill that they must use to earn the funds to build their house on their specific sub-lot, and a favorite decor style and color that must inform what their house looks like. Each Sim is moved in individually, once the previous Sim has finished their house, and the challenge ends when all seven houses and any communal area is fully built.

I took one look at that and I was like "yeah, I'm into it." XD Both because it sounds like a fun challenge, and because it's a challenge with minimal set-up (which is the problem with the challenges I personally have come up with previously -- I think they'd be fun, but they require a loooot of prep!). Having thought about it for a bit, I have some ideas about how I'd like to do the challenge myself -- and some problems that I'm going to have to figure out before I can set this up as a potential alternate save file to the Chill Valicer Save:

-->Location: I decided relatively quickly that I'd like to do the challenge in Windenburg, setting up a little community on The Crumbling Isle (something like how Plumbob Paragon set theirs up). I almost never play in Windenburg, so I figured that setting the challenge there would be a good way to encourage me to wander around that world and see the sights. And I already have some ideas about using the other lots to make a true town out of the island -- like turning one lot into a Community Space to get a community garden going, or another lot into a retail store that a couple of the citizens run. Might be fun!

-->Citizenry: Well, you guys know me -- of course the first three residents of the tiny town would be Victor, Alice, and Smiler. However, I'm having trouble deciding on who the other residents of the town could be. The way I see it, I have two options for the rest of the group:

Option One: Add Victoria Everglot and Emily Merrimack and do a "Four Victorians Riding A Roller Coaster" polycule thing on the tiny town lot! This would be fun as it would allow for amusing and adorable polycule shenanigans...but the problem here is the color schemes. Specifically, while Smiler is fine with their primary color being Yellow, Victor, Alice, and Emily ALL suit Blue being their primary color (Victor has his blue butterfly and blue tie -- plus I've always headcanoned it as his favorite color; Alice has her iconic blue dress; and Emily has her blue -- everything), and Alice and Victoria would both suit Red (Alice has that iconic red blood splatter on her apron; Victoria has her red dress). Now, I know how I could fix this for Alice -- make her primary color Green, to match her eyes -- but I'm not sure what to do about Victor and Emily. I mean, when it comes down to it, Emily would have to get Blue, look at her, but the only other alternate colors I can think of for Victor would be Black or Grey, and that would result in a depressing-looking house. :( So yeah, bit of an issue there!

Option Two: Add my young Emmett "Doc" Brown Sim (patterned off his appearance in BTTF: The Game), a fem!Malkavian Fledgling Sim I downloaded off the Gallery (which I'm already planning on calling Mal Kavian), a Preston Garvey Sim, and my take on a Wheatley Sim to the gang and just represent pretty much all my favorite fandoms and games in one go. The bonus here is that I've got the full roster of seven Sims; as stated, I'm representing a bunch of things I enjoy, not just the primary three; and I get a tiny bit of diversity by including a black character as a primary. However, there are also a couple of issues here:

I'm not entirely sure I want to do the challenge with the full compliment of seven Sims, as I have trouble wrangling a mere three sometimes in my Chill Valicer Save. And before you ask, no, I don't have For Rent, so I couldn't turn the lot into a Residental Rental and just play one family at a time. I'd have to really fight with my own micromanaging tendencies to get this to work!

We again have color overlap issues because Victor, Preston, and Wheatley ALSO all suit the color Blue (Victor for the reasons listed above; Preston because the Minutemen have blue as their primary color scheme; and Wheatley because his eye is blue in the game). Now, admittedly, this one is a bit easier to solve -- make Preston's color Light Brown to match his iconic duster (yes, Sims 4 actually distinguishes between Light Brown and Dark Brown -- the only color that gets that distinction in the sort!), and Wheatley's White to match his core's outer shell -- but still. I am apparently obsessed with Blue characters!

Now, I can think of an interesting way to solve this dilemma -- set up two tiny towns on the Crumbling Isle on the two biggest lots, and divide the Sims so there's like five or so on each lot. (Suppose it could be like Victor, Alice, Smiler, Doc, Mal Kavian on one, and Victoria, Emily, Preston, Wheatley on another?) That does mean having to do the challenge twice, and wrangling a lot more Sims, but... *shrug* We'll see how I feel!

-->Skills, Colors, and Decors: As previously stated, all Sims have to have a specific skill that they use to fund the creation of their home, and a favorite color and decor style that should inform the look of said home. Now, the decor thing is kind of a mystery to me (I mix-and-match styles all the time when building, and I don't have Dream Home Decorator to make Sims Like specific types -- though it does occur to me that I could just fudge it by having each house just reflect their canon in some way), but I do have skills and colors almost entirely locked down for almost all of my potential citizens --

Victor: His color would be Blue (probably darker shades of such), and his money-making skill would be either Painting or Piano (though I'm leaning toward Painting because I've always headcanoned him as being more private with his music)

Alice: Her color would be Green, and her money-making skill either Painting or Writing (leaning toward Writing because I like the idea of her writing her own books)

Victoria: Her color would be Red, and her money-making skill would be either Knitting or Cross-Stitch (since we know she likes to sew from seeing her working on her blanket in the movie when Victor climbs onto her balcony)

Emily: Her color would be Blue (brighter shades), and her money-making skill would be either Flower Arranging (for her bouquet) or Gemology (for the wedding ring that starts the whole Corpse Bride mess -- it just amuses me)

Doc: His color would be Orange (as part of the BTTF logo), and his money-making skill would probably be Robotics (since it's the most sciencey-one), though I wouldn't say no to Fabrication

Mal: Her color would be Red (because, you know, vampire), and her money-making skill would be Wellness (because it deeply amuses me to have a vampire from that clan doing yoga and spa stuff)

Preston: His color would be either Blue or Light Brown (as previously stated), and his money-making skill would be either Fabrication (because he's the settlement guy, and Fabrication is a lot like how the workshops work in Fallout 4), Woodworking (the more low-tech version of that), or Archaeology (because he clearly enjoys the past, given you find him hiding in a museum and his coat is apparently looted from another one -- probably have to use a mod to make it available outside Selvadorada, though!)

Wheatley: His color would either be Blue or White (again, as previously stated), and his money-making skill would be Programming (again, because of the hilarity factor -- I mean, Wheatley CAN hack in the game, but we all know just how "good" he is at it XD)

Smiler: Their color would be Yellow, and their money-making skill --

And this is where I run into a problem, because I'm not entirely sure what to do for Smiler. Because my version of Smiler's primary thing is chemistry (or alchemy, depending on the setting), and I'm not entirely sure how to best represent that with the skills on offer. Should I do Mixology, on the basis that I heacanon they are also awesome at mixing drinks? Herbalism because that's kind of close (I have a mod that puts Granite Falls bugs in other worlds, so that's not an issue)? Do I rely on Simsonian Library's Apothecary mod and related skill because that is arguably closer that Herbalism? Or do I just fudge things by choosing Mixology or something before turning them into a spellcaster and having them focus on the Alchemy section of the spellbook? Decisions, decisions...

But yeah -- that's what I currently have in mind for any future Tiny Town-related save files I may make! Not gonna guarantee that this is gonna happen, but it's a distinct possibility. :) And if you guys have any suggestions regarding how I should do the tiny town (and what the fuck Smiler's money-making skill should be), please let me know!

[sunnydaleherald]

The Sunnydale Herald Newsletter, Tuesday, July 16

Giles: Stop, both of you. Uh, what, uh . . . What are you talking about? W-what's the Initiative? What. . . what on earth does it have to do with Buffy's new boyfriend? Willow: You know. I'm sure you know. Riley's one of the commandos. Giles: What?! Well that's marvelous, isn't it? Here I am, spent weeks trying, uh, t-to get a single scrap of information about our mysterious demon collectors and no one bothers to tell me that Buffy's dating one of them?! Who else knows?! Xander: No one. No one else knows this. Anya, and that's it! Willow: And Spike. Giles: Spike?! Spike knew? Xander: Only the basic stuff. You know, that Riley is a commando and Professor Walsh is in charge. Giles: Professor Walsh!? That fishwife!? Willow: You know, she's actually not that bad once you get to-- (sees Giles' look) So, th-the demon is probably a little late. W-we'll just, you know-- Giles: Oh, forget it. Go on. You two clear off. I'll just stay a little longer just in case.

~~Buffy Episode #68: "A New Man"~~

[Drabbles & Short Fiction]

Batteries Not Included (Faith/Dawn, M) by cmk418

The Advantages of Friendship (Xander, Giles, G) by cmk418

Gift Wrapping Traditions (Buffy, Faith, G) by cmk418

Figgy Pudding (Or the Ridiculousness of A Certain Christmas Carol) (Xander/Anya, G) by cmk418

Once More with (Ill) Feeling (Sweet, G, Glee xover) by Gray Cardinal (Gray_Cardinal)

Words Matter Most (Willow, G, NCIS xover) by Gray Cardinal (Gray_Cardinal)

Genuine Girl Scouts (Amy, T, Castle xover) by Gray Cardinal (Gray_Cardinal)

Manga Xander (Ensemble, G, High School DxD - Ishibumi Ichiei xover) by Baldur

Avenger Xander (Ensemble, T, Avengers xover) by Baldur

Super Xander (Ensemble, T, DCU xover) by Baldur

I Thought I Taw a Putty Tat (Xander, Faith, G) by Fablemaker

The Recruit (Buffy/Spike, M) by Harlow Turner

[Chaptered Fiction]

In the Company of Witches and Slayers: CH. 101 (Willow/Tara, E) by VladimirHarkonnen (TheLightdancer)

Home Movies Ch. 8 (Buffy/Spike, E) by cawthraven

The Worst Sacrifice, Chapter 2 (Buffy/Spike, E) by TwilightChild

The Degradation of Duality [Series Part 2], Chapter 28-29 (Buffy/Spike, E) by Ragini

I’ll Get You, My Pretty!, Chapter 3 (Buffy/Spike, M) by NoJudgementZone99

Maclay Down, Chapter 13 (Buffy/Spike, E) by Soulburnt

A Blackcap's Song, Chapter 1 (Buffy/Spike, E) by Murray

The Neighbor's Point of View, Chapter 120 (Buffy/Spike, G) by the_big_bad

Life with Buffy, Chapter 3 (Buffy/Spike, T) by Joan963z

Spiked, Chapter 9 (Buffy/Spike, E) by Maxine Eden

The Witch’s Gift, Chapter 38 (Buffy/Spike, E) by RavenLove12

Task Mistress, Chapter 3 (Buffy/Spike, E) by HappyWhenItRains

Night Carnival, Chapter 3 (Buffy/Spike, T) by tbd

Unicorn , Chapter 4 (Buffy/Spike, M) by Desicat

Aim High Ch. 6 (Buffy, T, SGA xover) by Buffyworldbuilder

[Images, Audio & Video]

Fanmix:The Mixtape Chronicles, Chapter 1-7 () by Julikobold

Artwork:Bangel chibi sketches () by MamaBewear

Artwork:The Gentleman () by thedemonglitch

Artwork:Jenny and Rupert () by mistyintherivers

Artwork:Faith () by sawcathuntingplainrawlasagna

Artwork:Buffy () by cadaverkeys

Custom Figures: Buffy () by thegothicalice

Icons: () by

Manip:Episodic art for BtVS 2x10 “What’s My Line 2” () by revello-drive-1630

Video: Dawn Summers - All American bitch by Faith Victoria

Video: willow rosenberg | who's afraid of little old me? () by ImagineDragonlords

[Reviews & Recaps]

Mothman’s Buffy Rewatch: Season 3, episodes 14 and 15, “Bad Girls” and “Doppelgangland” by mothmans-wedding-photographer

PODCAST: ATS 219 - Belonging by Another Buffy Podcast

Video: Buffy The Vampire Slayer | 2x1 "When She Was Bad" | REACTION by Andres El Rey

[Community Announcements]

August Fic-A-Day Challenge (2024) Discussion by Twistinbg the Hellmouth

Tuesday Prompts: Land by comment-fic

[Fandom Discussions]

I liked the episode of Angel that Buffy was on by annarowyn

my new theory by edgarallanhoetry

the buffy dvd sets are so silly. by neros-very-first-fiddle

Buffy’s supposed amazing vamp-dar by vargamornight

i have zero sympathy for vampires by youhavethesun

I don’t want Giles to leave by nikascorneroftheinternet

Say whatever you want, Buffy showed her whole ass when she kissed Spike in intervention. by skyegraves21

Orpheus by Joan the Vampire Slayer

Spike the Shrike? by emptyheadedgoblin

Buffy: Restless by Guilty-Tie164

Would Buffy be a good witch if she put her mind into it? by SafiraAshai

Angel by five-bi-five

Dead Man’s Party by Final_Swordfish_93

What are your thoughts on Kate? by 41GardenGal

Angel TV Show by curlysuze1

A more adult Buffy. by NoJudgementZone99

The Buffy EP - Velvet Chain by _gigsly

Just realised the big difference between Xander and Buffy... by needadviceplease8910

Gingerbread by CrimsonFlower22

Fandoms: by Bpd_embroiderer18

Am i the only one who thinks they're the best couple of the show? by direinde

What episode would you rate 9/10 and what's holding it back from being a perfect 10? by InfiniteMehdiLove

In Response to the “They were all whining” critique of Dead Man’s Party by mrjustice7

S7E6 Him by Kitchen-Driver7695

I watched Buffy as a kid and it was a bad influence… by PyleanCow06

was not expecting to cry this hard today! by lobotomizednemo

Buffy Panel To Panel continuation? by justagreatdane

Season 3 Done and Dusted by Organic_Individual52

Spike being there when Buffy comes out of the Slayer closet to Joyce adds a hilarious twist by Randy_Giles1880

Do you have any scenes that you find to be funny even though they weren't meant to be? by BoredYogiOnHere

What are some moments in the Buffyverse that show how well some of the characters know each other by PristineSituation498

Missing scenes by NoJudgementZone99

How popular was buffy at the time when the show was on? by Introvertedslayer

[Articles, Interviews, and Other News]

PUBLICATION: Buffy the Vampire Slayer's Riskiest Episode Modernized TV's Most Controversial Trope by CBR

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Join the editor team :)

[mywifeleftme]

157: The Silver Mt. Zion Memorial Orchestra & Tra-La-La Band // "Born Into Trouble as the Sparks Fly Upward."

"Born Into Trouble as the Sparks Fly Upward." The Silver Mt. Zion Memorial Orchestra & Tra-La-La Band 2001, Constellation (Bandcamp)

22 years ago Montreal’s other iconic prodigiously-membered post-rock band released their second LP. It’s not easy keeping all of these pro-Zion-but-not-Zionists straight, so I’ve helpfully listed and ranked each of the musicians who have passed through this constantly shifting collective from first to least-first. Let’s go!

Members of A/The/e Silver Mt. Zion Memorial Orchestra & Tra-La-La Band, Ranked

1. Mike Garson - piano 2. Annie Clark - guitar, keyboards, backing vocals 3. Brian Teasley- percussion 4. Daniel Hart - violin 5. Szabolcs Szczur – accordion 6. Davey 'Crabsticks' Trotter – Mellotron 7. Timothy Matthews – mbira 8. Buffi Jacobs – cello 9. Bach Norwood – piano, keyboards, backing vocals 10. Harriet Ballance - triangle, backing vocals 11. Japhy Ryder – floristry 12. Stuart "Peebs" Peebles – piccolo 13. Chandler Petrino – natural horn, oboe 14. Jared Pechonis – theremin 15. Toby Halbrooks - theremin 16. Corn Mo - backing vocals 17. Patrick Hewitt – theremin 18. Darin Hieb – trumpet, backing vocals 19. Rachel Woolf – flute 20. Mark Beardsworth – claviola 21. Allen Halas – percussion 22. Edwin Mendoza – viola 23. Todd Beaupré – vibraslap 24. Thaddeus Ford – trumpet 25. Paul Deemer – trombone, trumpet 26. Mike St.Clair – trombone, synth effects 27. Josh Guyer – trombone, spoons 28. Chris Curiel – trumpet 29. Heather Test – French horn 30. Victoria Arellano – classical harp 31. Sean Redman – violin, mandolin 32. Kelly Test – percussion 33. Mike Mordecai – percussion 34. Jason Garner – drums 35. Audrey Easley – flute, piccolo, EWI 36. Rick G. Nelson – viola 37. Nick Groesch – piano, keyboards 38. Keith Hendricks – percussion 39. Evan Hisey – keyboards 40. Dylan Silvers – guitar 41. Daniel Hart – violin 42. John Lamonica – percussion 43. Marcus Lopez – percussion 44. Matt Bricker – trumpet, synth effects 45. Taylor Young – percussion 46. Joe Butcher – steel drum 47. Evan Jacobs – piano, keyboards 48. Todd Berridge – viola 49. Nick Earl – guitar 50. Evan Weiss – trumpet 51. Jay Jennings – trumpet 52. Tamara Brown – violin 53. Merritt Lota – steel drums 54. Daniel Huffman – guitar 55. Timothy Blowers – harp 56. Anthony Richards – steel drums 57. Louis Schwadron – French horn 58. Andrew Tinker – French horn 59. Nick Wlodarczyk  – trombone 60. Paul Gaughran – flute 61. Isabelo Cruz – French horn 62. Bryan Wakeland – drums 63. Hayley McCarthy – viola 64. Dave Dusters – percussion, backing vocals 65. Billy Mills-Curran – flute 66. Logan Keese – trumpet 67. Ricky Rasura – classical harp 68. Tonya Hewitt – banjo 69. Daniel Poorman – slide whistle 70. Andy Parkerson – clarinet 71. Joseph Singleton – viola 72. Jenelle Valencia – violin 73. James Reimer – trombone 74. Regina Chellew – guitar, trumpet, backing vocals 75. Ryan Fitzgerald – guitar, backing vocals 76. Cory Helms – guitar, backing vocals 77. Jessica Jordan – backing vocals 78. Jenny Kirtland – backing vocals 79. Kristin Hardin – backing vocals 80. Elizabeth Evans – backing vocals 81. Neil Smith – backing vocals 82. Julie Doyle – backing vocals 83. Christine Bolon – backing vocals 84. Natalie Young – backing vocals 85. Constance Dolph – backing vocals 86. Elizabeth Brown – backing vocals 87. Apotsala Wilson – backing vocals 88. Jennie Kelley – backing vocals 89. Roy Thomas Ivy – backing vocals 90. Jamey Welch – backing vocals 91. Ethan Voelkers – backing vocals 92. Mark Pirro - bass 93. Frank Benjaminsen – backing vocals 94. Stephanie Dolph – backing vocals 95. Jennifer Jobe – backing vocals 96. Mike Elio – backing vocals 97. Kelly Repka – backing vocals 98. Jason Rees – backing vocals 99. Jeneffa Soldatic – backing vocals 100. Michael Turner – backing vocals 101. Don Congeler – backing vocals 102. Michael Musick – backing vocals 103. Melissa Crutchfield – backing vocals 104. Sandra Powers Giasson – backing vocals 105. Paul Hillery – backing vocals 106. Stephen Dix – backing vocals 107. Jessica Berridge – backing vocals 108. Melisma MacDonald – backing vocals 109. Ross Cink - backing vocals 110. Lucy Williams - choreography 111. Josh David Jordan – backing vocals 112. Brad Butler – backing vocals 113. Jason Rees – backing vocals 114. Andrew Aldenenotti – backing vocals 115. Getting hit by a bus wearing a flowing white robe 116. Tim DeLaughter - vocals, guitar, piano

Hold on. I’ve just received word that these musicians are actually members of some other band? Apologies for the confusion!

157/365

[brookston]

Holidays 8.28

Holidays

Bow Tie Day

Crackers Over the Keyboard Day

Criminal Appreciation Day

Crumbs Between the Keys Day

Dream Day Quest and Jubilee

828 Day

Emerati Women’s Day (UAE)

Emmett Till Day

End of the Fairy Tale Day

Giving Black Day (a.k.a. Give 828)

Gone-ta-Pott Day [every 28th]

Green Shirt Guy Day

I Have a Dream Day

International Read Comics in Public Day

Manifest 828 Day

Mariamoba (Republic of Georgia)

National Bow Tie Day

National Grandparents Day (Mexico)

National Over It Day

National Power Rangers Day

National Thoughtful Day

Nativity of Nephthys (Egyptian Goddess of Love)

Race Your Mouse Around the Icons Day

Radio Commercial Day

Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day

Russian Germans Day (Germany)

Scientific American Day

Significant Historical Events Day

Tan Suit Day

Watermelon Day (French Republic)

World Day of Turners Syndrome

Food & Drink Celebrations

National Cheese Sacrifice Day

National Cherry Turnover Day

National Red Wine Day

Stuffed Green Bell Peppers Day

Subway Sandwich Day

4th & Last Monday in August

Araw ng mga Bayani (National Heroes’ Day; Philippines) [Last Monday]

August/Summer Bank Holiday (UK) [Last Monday]

International Day of Cyber Attack Ceasefire [Last Monday]

Liberation Day (Hong Kong) [Last Monday]

Motorist Consideration Monday [Monday of Be Kind to Humankind Week]

Notting Hill Carnival (UK) [Last Monday & day before]

Social Justice Day (Antarctica) [4th Monday]

Independence Days

Holy Empire of Reunion (Declared; 1997) [unrecognized]

Luana (Declared; 2019) [unrecognized]

Moldova (from USSR; 1991)

Ohio Empire (Declared; 2008) [unrecognized]

Feast Days

Alexander of Constantinople (Christian; Saint)

Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Abkhazia)

Augustine of Hippo (Christian; Saint) [brewers] *

Ayyankali Jayanti (Kerala, India)

Constant Troyon (Artology)

Edmund Arrowsmith (Christian; Saint)

Edward Burne-Jones (Artology)

Feast of the Mother of God (Georgia, Macedonia, Serbia)

Festival for Luna (Ancient Rome)

Festival for Sol (Ancient Rome)

Festival of the Neon Revolution

First Onam (Rice Harvest Festival; Kerala, India)

Frank Gorshin Day (Church of the SubGenius; Saint)

Hermes of Rome (Christian; Saint)

Julian (Christian; Saint)

Junipero Serra (Christian; Saint)

Marimba (Virgin’s Assumption; Georgia)

Mariotte (Positivist; Saint)

Media Aestas III (Pagan)

More Rum Day (Pastafarian)

Moses the Black (Christian; Saint)

Uncle Norton the Elephant (Muppetism)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Sensho (先勝 Japan) [Good luck in the morning, bad luck in the afternoon.]

Umu Limnu (Evil Day; Babylonian Calendar; 40 of 60)

Premieres

Animal Crackers (Film; 1930)

Cain's Jawbone, by E. Powys Mathers (Novel/Puzzle; 1934)

Come Clean, by Puddle of Mudd (Album; 2001)

The Count of Monte Cristo, by Alexandre Dumas (Novel; 1844)

Do the Evolution, by Pearl Jam (Animated Music Video; 1998)

54 (Film; 1998)

Flying Leathernecks (Film; 1951)

Gallipoli (Film; 1981)

Get Rich Quick Porky (WB LT Cartoon; 1937)

Honeymoon in Vegas (Film; 1992)

I Have a Dream, by Martin Luther King Jr. (Speech; 1963)

Let’s Get It On, by Marvin Gaye (Album; 1973)

Lohengrin, by Richard Wagner (Opera; 1850)

Mary of Scotland (Film; 1936)

Mickey’s Follies (Disney Cartoon; 1929)

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers (TV Series; 1993)

Narcos (TV Series; 2015)

The New Mutants (Film; 2020)

Perri (Disney Film; 1957)

Personal, 19th Jack Reacher book, by Lee Child (Novel; 2014)

Phineas and Verb the Movie: Candace Against the Universe (Animated Film; 2020)

Private Lessons (Film; 1981)

Q. Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo!, by Devo (Album; 1978)

Rope (Film; 1948)

Smile, by Katy Perry (Album; 2020)

Song of the Thin Man (Film; 1947)

Studio 54 (Film; 1998)

Tease for Two (WB LT Cartoon; 1965)

Travelling Without Moving, by Jamiroquai (Album; 1996)

The Truth About Mother Goose (Disney Cartoon; 1957)

Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me (Film; 1992)

Victoria (TV Series; 2016)

Walk This Way by Aerosmith (Song; 1975)

Yankee Doodle Bugs (WB LT Cartoon; 1954)

Today’s Name Days

Adelinde, Aline, Augustin (Austria)

Augustin, Tin (Croatia)

Augustýn (Czech Republic)

Augustinus (Denmark)

August, Gustav, Kustas, Kustav, Kusti, Kusto (Estonia)

Tauno (Finland)

Augustin, Elouan (France)

Adelinde, Aline, Augustin, Vivian (Germany)

Damon (Greece)

Ágoston (Hungary)

Agostino, Ermete (Italy)

Auguste, Guste, Ranna (Latvia)

Augustinas, Patricija, Steigvilė, Tarvilas (Lithuania)

Artur, August (Norway)

Adelina, Aleksander, Aleksy, Augustyn, Patrycja, Sobiesław, Stronisław (Poland)

Augustín (Slovakia)

Agustín (Spain)

Fatima, Leila (Sweden)

Agustin, August, Augusta, Augustina, Austen, Austin, Austina, Austyn, Gus, Gustava, Gustavo (USA)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 240 of 2024; 125 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 1 of week 35 of 2023

Celtic Tree Calendar: Coll (Hazel) [Day 21 of 28]

Chinese: Month 7 (Geng-Shen), Day 13 (Wu-Wu)

Chinese Year of the: Rabbit 4721 (until February 10, 2024)

Hebrew: 11 Elul 5783

Islamic: 11 Safar 1445

J Cal: 30 Hasa; Nineday [30 of 30]

Julian: 15 August 2023

Moon: 92%: Waxing Gibbous

Positivist: 16 Gutenberg (9th Month) [Mariotte]

Runic Half Month: Rad (Motion) [Day 1 of 15]

Season: Summer (Day 68 of 94)

Zodiac: Virgo (Day 7 of 32)

Calendar Changes

Rad (Motion) [Half-Month 17 of 24; Runic Half-Months] (thru 9.9)

[daily-coloring]

Best of 2024 - TV

I'm pretty sure, I've missed many great series, as I cancelled Netflix in January and only watched a few of their shows. That's why probably Ripley isn't going to be on my list. Nevermind.

01. Alice & Jack - Miniseries - "Be warned, you may not like Alice, or indeed Jack. There are times when I think: what insufferable, self-indulgent drama queens! With a supporting cast including Aisling Bea, Aimee Lou Wood and Sunil Patel, it’s more or less accepted that the titular leads’ great love has the right to flatten everything and everyone before it. They mess perfectly nice people about, while over time the barriers to them getting together feel fabricated and flimsy. If you hang around long enough (another spoiler klaxon), you may feel a mite conned by the bizarre, mangled happy-sad ending." - The Guardian

02. Happy Valley - Season 1-2-3

03. Fargo - Season 5

04. Mrs. Davis - Miniseries - "The show doesn’t hold your hand as it zips from locale to locale and sometimes concept to concept. It’s a fast show, but it’s anchored by Betty Gilpin, who has crafted a genuine character in this Looney Tunes universe she inhabits. She moves from parody to pathos as smoothly as slapstick heroines like Irene Dunne, and you’ll find yourself constantly rooting for her even as you occasionally question her sanity and the sanity of the world she inhabits." - The Verge

05. Hacks - Season 3

06. This Town - Season 1

07. Blue Lights - Season 2

08. After the Party - Miniseries - "Anyone out there becoming weary of slow-moving prestige thrillers? Sick of watching the well-coiffed suffering photogenically as they sip vintage plonk at their bespoke kitchen islands? If so, Channel 4’s six-part thriller After the Party, set in Wellington, New Zealand, provides a breath of thrilling fresh air. Created by Robyn Malcolm and Dianne Taylor, it premiered in New Zealand last year; Malcolm, who also stars, has since won the best actress award at French TV festival Séries Mania." - The Guardian

09. Barry - Season 4

10. Dead Hot - Season 1

11. Lost Boys & Fairies - Miniseries

12. One Day - Miniseries

13. Slow Horses - Season 3-4

14. Fallout - Season 1

15. True Detective: Night Country

16. We Are Lady Parts - Season 2

17. Sort Of - Season 1-2-3

18. Spent - Season 1

19. Julia - Season 1-2

20. English Teacher - Season 1

21. Shrinking - Season 2

22. Loot - Season 2

23. Alma's Not Normal - Season 2

24. Rivals - Season 1 - "Adapted from Jilly Cooper’s infamous novel of the same name, the show boasts an all-star cast that includes everyone from David Tennant, Alex Hassell and Aidan Turner to Katherine Parkinson, Emily Atack and Victoria Smurfit. And as you might expect from a TV reimagining of one of the 80s’ most iconic “bonkbusters”, it’s also very, very racy." - HuffPost

25. Big Boys - Season 2

26. The Listeners - Season 1

27. Smoggie Queens - Season 1

28. Flack - Season 1-2

29. The Dry - Season 2

30. Mr. & Mrs. Smith - Season 1

31. Smothered - Miniseries

32. The Outlaws - Season 3

33. Heartstopper - Season 3

34. The Penguin - Season 1

35. Traces - Season 1-2

36. Paris Has Fallen - Season 1

37. Ludwig - Season 1

38. The Rings of Power - Season 2

39. The Responder - Season 1-2

40. Sweetpea - Season 1 - "

In the iconic movie The Dark Knight, Heath Ledger's Joker chillingly tells Batman: "Madness is a lot like gravity...all it takes is a little push." And in Sky Atlantic series Sweetpea, we discover what happens when a wallflower, who's spent her life being mistreated and ignored, is given the greatest of shoves. In one of the most fun dark comedy thrillers in recent years, Sweetpea's Rhiannon Lewis (played by Fallout's Ella Purnell) becomes an addictive-to-watch anti-villain that takes us on a thrill ride through her twisted form of justice." - Radio Times

[mystyleswithharry]

Celebrity Halloween Costumes of 2024: The Best Looks So Far

The season of spooky festivities is upon us, and this year’s celebrity Halloween costumes have already set the internet buzzing. Even before Halloween officially lands on October 31, the stars have been out flaunting their impressive, bold, and often hilarious costumes.

With celebrities drawing inspiration from cult classics, pop culture icons, and everything in between, Halloween 2024 is shaping up to be memorable.

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Sophie Turner Stuns as Trinity From “The Matrix”

This year, Sophie Turner showed us how sleek and striking a character costume can be by stepping out as Trinity from “The Matrix.” Dressed in an all-black latex suit with her hair slicked back and rocking dark sunglasses, she fully embodied the fierce energy of this sci-fi icon.

Sophie’s choice was perfect for a Halloween party, where she embraced the futuristic cool that makes Trinity an unforgettable character.

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Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco’s Whimsical “Alice in Wonderland” Duo

Their choice is a testament to the enduring appeal of “Alice in Wonderland” as a Halloween favorite. By choosing characters that are instantly recognizable, Selena and Benny brought both a touch of fantasy and childhood nostalgia to their celebration.

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Lizzo’s “Ozempic Dose” Costume Brings the Laughs

Lizzo, known for her humor and creativity, didn’t disappoint with her Halloween costume this year. She turned heads by showing up as an “Ozempic dose,” a costume that was both topical and hilarious. Dressed in a custom outfit that mimicked the look of the trendy medication packaging, Lizzo’s costume was a clever nod to one of 2024’s biggest health trends.

At a Halloween party filled with elaborate costumes, Lizzo’s “Ozempic dose” look had people talking and laughing.

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Tom Sandoval and Victoria Lee Robinson’s “Scream” Duo

Horror fans, rejoice! Tom Sandoval and Victoria Lee Robinson brought a dose of classic horror to their Halloween celebration with their “Scream” characters. Tom went full Ghostface, complete with the haunting mask and dark cloak, while Victoria embraced the role of his terrified victim, adding a bit of bloody makeup for effect.

The look was not only nostalgic but also timely, given the ongoing popularity of slasher films. Their dedication to the theme and attention to detail made their costumes perfect for the Halloween season, tapping into the thrill of classic horror while celebrating the fun of dressing up as a duo. Their look was a standout among celebrity Halloween costumes this year.

David Dobrik’s Timeless Sailor Costume

David Dobrik kept it simple and classic this Halloween with a sailor costume, showing that sometimes less is more. Dressed in a white sailor suit with a matching hat, David’s look was straightforward yet charming.

His costume fit right in at the Pizza Slime x Casamigos Halloween party, where his relaxed and nostalgic look added a unique touch to the celebration.

David’s choice is a reminder that you don’t always need an elaborate outfit to make an impact on Halloween. The sailor costume is a timeless choice, perfect for a festive night out without the need for heavy makeup or accessories. By opting for a classic look, David proved that simplicity can be just as memorable as over-the-top costumes.

[frankiesfashionjourney]

Introduction

Throughout the 19th century the use of, corsets, bonnets, top hats, bustles, and petticoats were highly common. Women were consistently characterized by full skirts that gathered more towards the back of the silhouette giving it a train. However as the era came to an end the aesthetics movement began, introducing more flexible floaty clothes which gained popularity, making it more comfortable and relaxing to move about than in the earlier 19th century.

Queen Victoria

The Victorian era lasted from 1837 to 1901, this was the 63 year reign of Queen Victoria over Great Britain and Ireland. Which was when the British Empire expanded globally increasing Britain's power and wealth. Previously men were the main focus of fashion as (fashion usually follows the royal family, determining the current fashionable garments) the former ruler was William IV meaning he was the main style icon for men. However, with Queen Victoria being on the throne, women's fashion took over. One of the roles women obtained through this time was to display the status and wealth of the husbands while the men withdrew into the background. Throughout her reign, many styles emerged and evolved and Queen Victoria became a style icon of the era.

Crinoline

These were originally a stiff fabric with a weft of horsehair and a wrap of cotton or line thread.

This evening dress from 1866 demonstrates the significant size that can be achieved with the crinoline when using the correct dress.

Bustles

In the 1870s, women's fashion emphasised the back of the skirt, including long trains and elaborate bustles filled with intricate layers of flounces and ruching. Compared to the 1860, the waistline was lower and bodices becoming longer and more fitted, while the skirt had a flat front. Low, square necklines were in fashion and hairstyles were styled high at the back with intricate details, often detailed with ribbons, bands, and ornamental combs. during this period hats were small and often tilted forward over the forehead.

Eastern influences

During the middle of the century, a variety of Japanese goods were introduced to Western Europe. The kimono and other types of fabric influenced many garments.

This specific dress with a bustle was re-tailored in London from a Japanese kimono, it was made by hand by Misses Turner.

This evening dress was made in 1894, which was all hand embroidered, strongly influence from Japan and there Japanese prints. Fans were also a very popular accessory which can also incorporate Japanese prints, these were also influenced by Japan. By the end of the Victorian period the skirt had start5ed to decrease in size partly due to the development of the princess line gown.

Mourning in the Victorian Period

There were four periods of mourning, each one with its own rules band customs. The first period of mourning or deep mourning lasted one year and one day. The costumes were of two pieces, a bodice and a skirt.

Working class women could make a cotton dress or dye one in black.

Middle class-women could choose among black wool, cotton or silk.

Upper-class women could use the latest trend but always in silk or wool. The main feature of this period was the long black veil that reached to the waist or to the knees.

Women couldn't wear jewellery. They could only leave home to go to church or visiting relatives. If the wife had no income and small children to raise, they were allowed to marry after this period.

Charles Fredrick Worth

Charles Fedrick Worth was an influential English fashion designer, often regarded as the father of Haute Couture. He introduced the concept of the fashion designer as a creative force and established the first couture house, Maison Worth, in Paris 1858. He was known for dressing royalty and aristocrats.

Date of Birth: October 13, 1825

Date of death : March 10, 1895

Age at Death: 69 years old

In the later half of the 1880s the bustle reduced in size and the dresses changed to a more simplistic style. Worth also considered every aspect of a gown.

In this this image the skirt has reduced in size again, this is called a funnel shape, a neat, slender shape with a flaring hem. Contrasting with this, around 1890 the shoulders expanded. This dress from 1892 is made from off-white satin and velvet sleeves.

[bitter69uk]

The Victoria and Albert Museum’s hotly anticipated blockbuster “Divas” fashion exhibit (24 June to 7 April) opens later this month. Amongst the holy artefacts I’m gagging to see: one of Edith Piaf’s signature black dresses, Josephine Baker’s skimpy, glittery 1920s Folies Bergère costume and the cocktail dress Edith Head designed for Bette Davis’ portrayal of Margo Channing in All About Eve (1950). But the undeniable star attraction is Bob Mackie’s “flame dress” worn onstage by the late, great soul goddess Tina Turner in 1977 when she was hustling to re-invent herself as a solo performer in her post-Ike disco-era wilderness years. (Fun fact: it was Turner’s friend and ardent supporter Ann-Margret who hooked her up with Mackie. He was already designing A-M’s spectacular Vegas ensembles – in addition to Cher’s, Diana Ross’ and Charo’s!). To promote the exhibit, today’s edition of The Guardian features an interview with the 83-year-old “Rajah of the Rhinestone.” He reflects on his 40-year friendship with Turner: “Even though I knew she wasn’t well, losing Tina was a shock. There was still such joy in that big rough laugh of hers. I thought she would be here for ever.” Asked to compare how modern “divas” compare, Mackie is understandably underwhelmed (will people be clamouring to see Rita Ora, Ellie Goulding or Dua Lipa costumes three decades from now?). And the maestro of the strategically placed sequin is clearly unafraid of rousing the ire of the BeyHive. Asked about Beyonce (whose Renaissance tour just passed through London), he shrugs, “The clothes don’t really show off the talent. It looks like Naomi Campbell doing a nightclub act.” Meow! Pictured: Bob Mackie’s original 1977 sketch for Turner’s “flame dress.”

[sghosh15101999]

Cultural Riches: Exploring Great Britain's Museums

When you think of cultural riches, Great Britain's museums stand as unparalleled treasures. From the grandeur of the British Museum to the intimate charm of smaller galleries, these institutions offer a journey through time and creativity.

Great Britain's museums are more than just buildings housing artifacts. They are gateways to understanding our shared heritage and celebrating human ingenuity. As I wandered through these hallowed halls, I felt a deep connection to history and an overwhelming appreciation for the meticulous efforts that preserve these stories for future generations.

The British Museum: A Global Beacon

The British Museum is a testament to human history's breadth and depth. Established in 1753, it's not just a museum but an encyclopedia of world cultures. With over eight million works, it covers everything from Egyptian mummies to the Rosetta Stone. Every exhibit tells a story, and as I moved from one gallery to another, I found myself enthralled by the tales of ancient civilizations and their enduring legacies.

The National Gallery: A Canvas of Masterpieces

Stepping into the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square, I was surrounded by masterpieces that have shaped the art world. This gallery is a paradise for art lovers, featuring works by Van Gogh, Turner, and Da Vinci. Each painting is a window into the artist's soul, and as I stood before these iconic works, I felt a profound sense of connection to the past. The vibrant colors and intricate details spoke volumes about the artists' passions and the times they lived in.

Victoria and Albert Museum: A Celebration of Design

The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) is where art meets design in a spectacular fashion. Housing over 2.3 million objects, the V&A covers a wide range of art forms, from fashion and textiles to sculpture and photography. Walking through its halls, I marveled at the creativity and innovation on display. The museum's commitment to showcasing both historical and contemporary pieces offers a comprehensive view of the evolution of design and its impact on society.

Natural History Museum: Wonders of the Natural World

The Natural History Museum is a haven for those fascinated by the natural world. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of a gigantic blue whale skeleton suspended from the ceiling. The museum's extensive collection spans billions of years, featuring everything from dinosaur fossils to meteorites. It's a place where science and wonder collide, and every exhibit invites you to explore the mysteries of our planet and beyond.

The Science Museum: Innovation and Discovery

For those with a penchant for innovation, the Science Museum is an unmissable destination. This museum is dedicated to inspiring a passion for science through interactive exhibits and cutting-edge displays. From the earliest steam engines to modern-day space exploration, the Science Museum celebrates human ingenuity and technological advancement. As I engaged with the exhibits, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement about the endless possibilities that science holds for our future.

The Tate Modern: A Hub of Contemporary Art

The Tate Modern, housed in a former power station, is a striking symbol of how art can transform spaces and minds. This museum is a mecca for contemporary art enthusiasts, featuring works by Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney. The Tate Modern's bold and thought-provoking exhibits challenge conventional perceptions of art, inviting visitors to explore new perspectives and ideas. Walking through its vast galleries, I felt inspired by the creativity and daring of modern artists.

Conclusion: Embrace the Cultural Riches

Exploring Great Britain's museums is not just about viewing exhibits; it's about immersing oneself in the cultural riches that define our humanity. Each museum offers a unique experience, providing insights into history, art, science, and nature. As you plan your visit, I encourage you to embrace the diversity and depth of these institutions. For those interested in delving deeper into cultural explorations, our expertise in Ebooks and Audiobooks can enrich your journey. Visit Great Britain to benefit from our extensive resources and enhance your understanding of the world's cultural treasures.

#ebook #audiobook #book

[mulgravelawuk]

Visit London – Great Britain’s gem

London offers diverse attractions. The UK Visit Visa allows short stays for tourism, family visits, or business, several requirements need to be met including demonstrating purpose, funds, and ties to home country. In this article we look at some of the attractions and the UK visit visa.

Of all Great Britain’s cities, London has got to be the finest, with its vibrant neighbourhoods and historic landmarks. There is a story waiting to be discovered by every visitor and memories to be made. Not only full of tradition, London also meets innovation and is full of diversity.

Jump on the London Eye, where you can enjoy amazing city views stretching 25 miles in every direction. Want to know which art gallery used to power the city? The Tate Modern, of course. Check it out today and discover the genius of Damien Hirst to Rothko and prepare yourself for contemporary art on a truly spectacular scale. The Natural History Museum offers you 70 million specimens from the microscopic to the mammoth. Explore the wonders of nature in one of London's finest museum buildings. Come face-to-face with animals from the past and the present. And what's more, you'll be able to learn about the history of the world. And watch out for the dinosaurs.

Where can you see masterpieces by Van Gogh, Turner, Michelangelo, and Rembrandt for free? The National Gallery. Sitting proudly on Trafalgar Square, this landmark attraction houses over 2,300 of the world's finest paintings.

If you are thinking of packing your bags and embarking on that special journey, in addition to the above, let's go through the top 6 attractions. London promises historic marvels, a cultural kaleidoscope, a culinary wonderland, a hub of innovation, along with tranquil green spaces.

Madame Tussauds

Want to get up close and personal with your favourite world celebrities and even royalty? Well, you can! Step into the world of Madame Tussauds, founded by Marie Tussaud in 1835. It boasts some of the best waxworks in the world, proudly housing over 150 incredibly lifelike figures. Discover the diverse zones that Madame Tussauds has to offer, rub shoulders with your favourite stars, historical figures to modern-day pop cultural icons and more. More than 500 precise measurements are taken to accurately create each and every wax figure with a hefty price tag of over £200,000! Need we say more?

Royal Museums Greenwich

Ever fancied a journey through time into the centre of space? London has got your back! Royal Museums Greenwich is a captivating ensemble of cultural institutions nestled within the historic and picturesque area of Greenwich, a group of three attractions in a World Heritage Site. Start off by steering a ship into port at the National Maritime Museum, then explore the beautiful Queen's House, an architectural gem designed by Inigo Jones. Explore its elegant interiors and art collections, a backdrop to numerous feature films such as Bohemian Rhapsody, Guardians of the Galaxy, and even has its own BBC documentary “Elizabeth: The Unseen Queen”. After that, why not climb aboard the Cutty Sark, the last surviving tea clipper ship, and finally end your day by hopping from one hemisphere to the other over the Prime Meridian at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, an invisible yet globally significant line with historical and astronomical significance. Tower of London

Wondered where the Crown Jewels are? The Tower of London, with its rich history and it’s amazing imposing architecture is where these precious treasures can be found symbolizing over 800 years of monarchy. The mighty Tower of London was established in 1066 to keep hostile forces at bay. You can stand on the spot where Anne Boleyn, one of Henry VIII's six wives, lost her head. But don’t worry, you won’t have your head chopped off for wanting to see the crown jewels; they are on public display within the Jewel House.

The Victoria and Albert Museum

Once you have visited the Tower of London, why not visit one of the most popular museums in London? Immerse yourself in over 3,000 years of fashion, art, and design. From sculptures to jewellery, textiles to photographs, prepare to be inspired. You really won’t have time to get bored with over 140 galleries and a permanent collection of over 2 million objects, and that’s in addition to the regular temporary exhibits. No wonder the V&A is on every tourist's must-visit list.

Science Museum

Now it's time to travel back in time and peer into the future; the Science Museum is our next destination. From steam trains to space rockets and everything in between, embark on a historic journey charting the world's greatest ever inventions. Founded in 1857, it’s another gift from the amazing city of London. It attracts over 3.3 million visitors per year and is guaranteed to inspire you and give you a sense of the science that has shaped and will shape our lives, with award-winning exhibitions and iconic objects.

British Museum

And at the top spot, an amazing destination documenting over 2 million years of human history. Yes, at number 1, it has to be the one and only British Museum. The museum tells the story of human culture from its beginnings to the present day. Including world-famous objects such as the Parthenon sculptures and the Rosetta Stone.

UK Visit Visa

Now see these London's attractions for yourself. To travel to the UK, you will need to apply for a UK Visit Visa, this allows individuals from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland to enter the United Kingdom for short stays, typically for tourism, visiting family or friends, or even business, or other permitted activities. The visit visa is better known as the Standard Visitor visa.

The Visit visa typically allows stays of up to 6 months in the UK, with some exceptions for longer durations for certain purposes. However, it does not permit individuals to live, work, or study in the UK.

To obtain a UK visit visa, you will typically need to demonstrate the reasons behind your visit, including the purpose, show that you have sufficient funds in your account to cover your expenses during your stay, established ties to your home country to prove to the Home Office that you will return home after your visit, and fulfil any other specific requirements depending on the purpose of your visit.

Should I use an Immigration lawyer or Solicitor to apply for the UK Visit visa?

You can make an application yourself without seeking advice from a lawyer. Usually, applications for the Standard Visitor visa are made online, providing necessary documentation and paying the relevant fees. The application is then processed by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), and if approved, the applicant receives a visa to enter the UK for the specified period and purpose. However, it's important to note that visit visas can be rejected for many reasons. It's advisable to seek the advice of a solicitor or lawyer if you are unsure of the documentation that you need to provide or find UK immigration law confusing. A lawyer will carefully review your requirements, provide accurate information including covering letters where needed, and ensure that you meet all eligibility criteria to minimise the risk of visa rejection.

What are the reasons for UK Visit Visa refusals?

Common reasons for visit visa rejections include:

Insufficient funds: If the applicant cannot demonstrate that they have enough money to cover their expenses during their stay in the UK.

Lack of ties to home country: Visa officers assess whether applicants have strong ties to their home country, such as family, employment, property ownership, or other commitments, to ensure they will return after their visit to the UK.

Incomplete or incorrect documentation: If applicants fail to provide all required documentation or submit inaccurate information, their visa application may be rejected.

Previous immigration or criminal history: Applicants with a history of immigration violations, criminal convictions, or other issues may have their visit visa applications rejected.

Travel history: Visa officers may assess an applicant's travel history to determine if they have complied with visa regulations in other countries previously visited.

Purpose of visit: If the purpose of the visit is not adequately supported by the documentation provided or if the applicant's intentions are unclear, the visa may be rejected. Read more common pitfalls to avoid when applying for a UK visitor visa on our detailed blog here. https://www.mulgravelaw.co.uk/blog/common-pitfalls-to-avoid-when-applying-for-a-uk-visitor-visa/

Instruct Mulgrave Law, specialist UK Immigration Lawyers with your UK Visit Visa application

Our team of London immigration lawyers specialises in helping individuals from around the world obtain visas for visiting the UK, whether it's for tourism, leisure, family visits, or business purposes. Whether you need guidance on applying for a Tourism, Leisure, or Family Visit Visa, assistance with preparing your application, or legal representation to challenge a refusal, our experienced immigration lawyers are here to help. Book a FREE 30-minute immigration advice session with one of our friendly lawyers today. Give us a call on 020 7253 7248, email info@mulgravelaw.co.uk, or fill out a simple form on our contact page.

We serve clients from London and beyond, if you are searching for Local Immigration Lawyers in London or Local Immigration Solicitors London, get in touch with us today!

You are at the right destination if you are looking for Sponsorship Licence Guidance London or Sponsor licence advice London at very reasonable charges.

For UK spouse visa. Contact us today.

[jigsky]

Top 20 Places to visit in London for free

A Budget-Friendly Guide to Exploring the City for Free

London, a city steeped in history and brimming with cultural treasures, doesn't have to break the bank for visitors. In this blog, we'll uncover the hidden gems and iconic landmarks that can be explored without spending a penny, proving that London's charm extends far beyond its price tags.

British Museum: Home to an astonishing collection of art and artifacts spanning centuries and cultures, the British Museum offers free entry, allowing visitors to delve into the world's history without spending a dime.

National Gallery: Situated in Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery showcases masterpieces by renowned artists like Van Gogh, Da Vinci, and Monet, welcoming art enthusiasts to admire its collection free of charge.

Tate Modern: For contemporary art lovers, the Tate Modern on the South Bank provides free access to its impressive collection, featuring works by Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney.

British Library: Bookworms and history buffs will appreciate the British Library, where you can explore rare manuscripts, literary treasures, and historical documents, all without spending a penny.

Hyde Park: Escape the bustling city streets and retreat to the expansive Hyde Park. Wander through lush greenery, relax by the Serpentine Lake, and enjoy open-air concerts or performances at no cost.

Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace: Experience the pomp and pageantry of the Changing of the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace, a quintessential London tradition that is both captivating and free of charge.

The Victoria and Albert Museum: Dive into the world of art, design, and fashion at the V&A Museum, where an extensive collection of exhibits is open to the public at no cost.

St. James's Park: Adjacent to Buckingham Palace, St. James's Park offers a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll, with its stunning lake and resident pelicans creating a tranquil escape in the heart of London.

The Science Museum: Ideal for families and science enthusiasts, the Science Museum offers free admission, showcasing interactive exhibits and engaging displays that cater to all ages.

Leadenhall Market: Step back in time at the enchanting Leadenhall Market, a historic covered market that has appeared in films like "Harry Potter." Wander through its charming passages and admire the architecture without spending a penny.

Trafalgar Square: A bustling hub in the heart of London, Trafalgar Square is a must-visit for its iconic Nelson's Column, public art installations, and vibrant atmosphere, all free for exploration.

The Tate Britain: Discover British art spanning centuries at the Tate Britain, offering free entry to its extensive collection, including works by Turner, Constable, and Blake. Read More About Top Tourist Places in London at www.jigsky.com

Camden Market: While shopping may not always be free, the vibrant atmosphere of Camden Market is worth the visit. Explore the eclectic stalls, street art, and unique characters that make Camden a cultural melting pot.

Museum of London: Delve into the city's rich history at the Museum of London, where exhibits covering prehistoric times to the swinging '60s are on display for free.

Sky Garden: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of London from the Sky Garden, a lush and contemporary public space located at the top of the Walkie Talkie building, offering free entry with advance booking.

The Serpentine Galleries: Nestled in Kensington Gardens, the Serpentine Galleries showcase contemporary art in a serene setting, inviting visitors to explore thought-provoking exhibits without spending a penny.

Abbey Road Crossing: Beatles fans can recreate the iconic Abbey Road album cover at the pedestrian crossing near Abbey Road Studios, capturing a musical moment without any cost.

Street Art in Shoreditch: Art enthusiasts and Instagrammers alike will appreciate the vibrant street art scene in Shoreditch. Take a self-guided tour to discover colorful murals and graffiti decorating the neighborhood's walls.

The Royal Observatory Greenwich: While there may be an admission fee for certain areas, the grounds of the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, including the Prime Meridian Line, can be explored for free.

Platform 9¾ at King's Cross Station: Harry Potter fans can immerse themselves in the wizarding world by visiting Platform 9¾ at King's Cross Station. While the adjacent Harry Potter shop may entice your wallet, taking a photo with the iconic platform sign is absolutely free.

London's allure extends beyond its renowned attractions, welcoming budget-conscious travelers to explore its rich cultural tapestry without spending a penny. From world-class museums to lush parks and vibrant markets, the city offers a wealth of free experiences, proving that London's charm is not reserved for those with deep pockets. So, lace up your walking shoes, grab a map, and embark on a wallet-friendly adventure through the captivating streets of London.

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