Come From Away | Theatre Review 💛💙

I really want to hold onto how I feel after this show and I hope this blog post help maintains that.

Come From Away is the most important show you can see in the West End at the moment. A show based around the events of 9/11 could so easily be emotionally challenging or some kind of trauma porn. 9/11 changed the world we live in, the after effects are still being felt 18 years later, no doubt for decades after that. Whilst the worst of humanity was being demonstrated in New York and Washington. The best example of humanity was being demonstrated in Gander, Newfoundland.

The immediate response following the attack was to close US air space, to stop any further attacks. Planes were told to go back to where they came from or to land in Canada. One of the airports planes landed at was Gander international airport. 38 planes landed that day, the population of the town almost doubling. Come From Away, tells the true story of how the Islanders welcomed with open arms the people stranded in a strange place, in a time of immense uncertainty, a long way from home. The effect on people and the compassion they showed means they are the only place outside the states to have steel from the World Trade centre.

On the 10th anniversary of 9/11 many of the Come From Aways returned to Gander to celebrate those people who had opened their arms and looked after them. The writers of this show went up to Gander on this anniversary. Irene Sankoff and David Hein interviewed people for hours and began to gather stories not knowing quite what they would get. The journey this show has been on is spectacular. After first being produced at Sheridan College, Ontario in 2013. From 2015 It was then produced at various theatres across America breaking box office records, then it went to Canada. Finally before opening on Broadway it played in Gander, in the Ice Hockey stadium.

Come From Away is such an ensemble piece and really is not about "star"names. The show opens with Welcome to The Rock the energy and urgency as well as the sense of community hits as soon as the drum beat starts drawing the audience in. Potentially the stand out moment of the show which shows Sankoff and Hein's mastery is Prayer, another ensemble piece. The passengers from the landed planes come from all walks of life, cultures and countries. About half way through the show passengers of different religions head to the church, to pray in the wake of tragedy. You not only see people of different religions co-exist peacefully, the languages spoken Arabic, Hebrew, Hindi and English and the traditional music build and weave together into this beautiful moment. It is a great example of how Sankoff and Hein use music to throughout the show. 

Other highlights: 28 Hours/Wherever We Are,  The Screech In and Me and The Sky. Also Bonnie Harris' compassion for animals and the 'Titanic Lady'.

I am so mesmerised by this production and the world building done with seemingly little, yet when you look closely it is built into every little detail from the underscore to slight costume changes. At the same time CFA expects a lot from the audience to fill in gap, but doesn't need a fancy set or effects. Come From Away holds it own both the story and the storytellers.

This show is about community, kindness and team work, without being asked, it coming naturally. This is demonstrated by the cast on stage, as every action they take on stage is intrinsically affected by everyone else on stage at that moment. If someone doesn't have a correct prop at that moment, it won't get passed to the next person, or the next, for when it is finally needed by the character who uses it. It's like watching a intricate puzzle being solved over and over again.

The more I look into this musical and the backstory of how it came to be, the more I simply adore it. I have watched so many interviews with the creatives, Broadway cast and the REAL people. I am particularly enamoured with Captain Beverly Bass, such as glass ceiling breaking powerful woman. The first female captain of American Airlines, one of the first people to deliver Boeing 777's to the US. Her life story has been captured in the feminist anthem 'Me and the Sky' and will certainly inspire hundreds and hundreds of young women and girls. It's another slice of history this production has captured and portrayed.

I hadn't really processed the 9/11 terror attacks, I mean it was 3 days before my 6th birthday, that would've been a lot to process. Yet it has arguably even affected my life in Norwich, England. I went back and I watched the footage, and I really had not grasped how huge and horrific it was. Which is incredibly naive. In one the news clips I watched there was a girl who was the same age as me and she saw the whole event happen from the window of the building she was in. I think I needed to process the attacks, for me to understand better the times that we live in.

We’re also doing a show about kindness. A true story about kindness. They want it! I can feel they’re leaning forward. That’s not what’s happening in the world right now. Nobody is talking about kindness or making a show about kindness—and it’s the fact that it’s true. Jenn Colella, Original Broadway cast

Ultimately this show. will make you want to go and tell your friends and family how much they mean to you. To go out into the world and do something positive that makes a difference, no matter how big. Life is so temporary and fleeting you don't know when it will be snatched away.

current favourites

It's been a hot minute since my last 'Current Favourites' so here is a wide variety of things I've been into recently.

Firstly this year  I have been getting back into the at home yoga practise thing. Sitting at my desk all day, is not doing wonders for me tbh. I have properly discovered Cat Meffan and her Heart openers and stretchy flows are the ideal tonic to combat this. Opening my body back out after being rather stationery and stiff in my normal working day.

Katie Jane Hughes, what a makeup inspiration she is. If you haven't heard of her where have you been. Her style of makeup is playful and colourful, yet what she does, doesn't take a really long time to look striking and editorial, unlike the typical insta-makeup. I am always intrigued to see what Katie will do next.

We've not had the best year of weather (apart from this weekend is looking pretty good), so I've been stuck in doors on my time off, therefore I've been playing Sims 2 more than I would like to admit. BUT to stop this time feeling totally unproductive I have been listening to quite a lot of Podcasts. I am pretty up to date with On The Line, which is Estee Lalonde's podcast. I particularly enjoyed 'Period Talk with Nikki and Leah' and 'A Deep Cleanse with Anjali Mahto'. Both of which I learnt to much and they were genuinely fascinating to listen to. Another favourite episode was Zanna Roberts Rassi on the Emma Guns Show talking beauty journalism and founding the brand Milk Makeup.

There's nothing quite like being late for a bandwagon is there, this very week I finally discovered Billie Eilish (I will really try not think about the fact she is 17) and her album When We Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go. Honestly I am listening to it about twice a day my picks, and the tracks stuck in my head are xanny and wish you were gay. If you haven't also joined the bandwagon, take a moment to go listen.

I finally watched Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake with my own eyes which is arguably one of the most influential ballets/pieces of dance from the 20th century. I was actually a little nervous to watch it knowing how many people adore it, and see Swan Lake over and over again.
Once the music started I could instantly tell why Bourne wanted to have his own take on the Tchaikovsky score. It is simply is simply stunning; powerful and dramatic, multilayered, tender and heart wrenching. It really does pull emotion out of all the notes within it. I wish I could travel back to 1996 and see the original audience's reaction, whilst the 2019 audience was completely engaged and captivated, I can't imagine seeing this groundbreaking piece of work then.
23 years later Swan Lake is still incredibly relevant. One of Bourne's inspirations for his adaptation was how the royals act in public, and can never truly be themselves, because of their duties. I think if we look to someone like the Duchess of Sussex, who completely had her own life, career and was extremely open with fans, how this has changed since becoming a member of the Royal family.
Also explored is the idea of masculinity with the choice of the male swans, showing the strength of these birds, rather than just the elegance. This of course leads onto the notion of the 'gay ballet'. I think audiences have become more intelligent, world views have changed. I think the show excellently handled the confusion and suppressing of questioning one's sexuality.

I could go on but to round up, I really enjoyed Swan Lake, and I hope we keep getting top quality dance visiting Norwich.

Thrillers I want to read | TBR

I have many many books on my TBR on GoodReads but you don't want to hear about all of them here. This year I want to get back into the Thriller genre. I've read a fair amount of John Grisham and James Patterson, whilst I've read and enjoyed their books, I've read enough from those two chaps. I'm really looking for some Thrillers from female authors, as men really dominate the market from my experience of the genre. So here are 5 books I want to read.

1. Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

2. Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn

3. Give Me Your Hand by Megan Abbott

4. Into The Water by Paula Hawkins

5. The Child Finder by Rene Denfeld

I desperately wanted this to be a post with 10 books, if reading this you have any recommendations from female, lLGBTQ+, BAME and any other under represented groups I would love to hear from you!

Norwich Theatre Royal Brochure: KP's Picks

Pictured on the front of the new style Norwich Theatre Royal brochure is Matilda the Musical, which I actually mentioned about a year ago when it was announced. I can confirm I am still very much looking forward to it.  The buzz around the production is starting to build, with the Matilda map starting to be populated in Norwich and Norfolk.

Dance is becoming more prominent in the programming at NTR as time goes by. This year there's not One but TWO visits from New Adventures. The first production they are bringing is Swan Lake, arguably the work that made Matthew Bourne's name. Somehow I've never seen it, so next week on Wednesday will be my first EVER time watching. The second production they are bringing is Romeo & Juliet. Not only is this exciting because it is new, New Adventures are working with a Young Cast at each of the venues and to my understanding young people are also working within other stages of the creative process.

Keeping on dance, the Mark Morris Dance Group, fairly fresh from a residency at Sadler's Wells, brings Pepperland. An ode but also a re-working of The Beatles' Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club.  This looks zingy and fresh, as well as a nostalgic feel.

I really enjoyed the book Girl on The Train, but I didn't make it more than half an hour through the film. I am intrigued as to how the stage adaptation will differ from the book and the film, and also how the heck they are staging it; the trailer doesn't give much away.

Finally to round this post out with another musical; Kinky Boots tells the story of an unlikely friendship, traditional Nottingham Shoe Maker and Drag Queen. Music by Cyndi Lauper and successful runs in the West End and on Broadway, what's not to be excited about?

Those are my top five picks, that I'm looking forward to seeing later this year.

Company 2018-2019 | Theatre Review

Whenever I think about this production of Company a smile on my face suddenly makes it presence known to me, which is nothing in comparison to the grin which appears on my face when I am telling someone about it.

I've always enjoyed the premise (nothing gets me like an interesting structure/narrative) and Sondheim's score of Company. This production is so special, iconic even as it captivates the mood of the nation at this moment in history. Many of us are yearning for more settled times what with Brexit, Trump, House Prices, the NHS in trouble our lives are seemingly on a knife edge - yet once an aspect of life becomes settled it puts us on a knife edge.

Company opens at the surprise 35th birthday party of our Central character Bobbie. Throughout the show Bobbie is trying to reconcile why she wants to get married, if she wants to get married and how that would look for her; by examining the relationship of her close coupled friends.

Originally the character Bobbie, was Bobby (Robert). In this 2018/2019 gender switched production the above takes on a new poignance particularly for the female audience, and the non straight cis male audience for that matter. There are enough stories about the straight white male at this point in time. The fact Bobbie is female amplifies the societal pressure around being 35 and single. Her friends feeling equals levels of concern and jealousy of Bobbie's relationship status. The overall context is what takes this production of Company to a new level.

Other aspects of this production are female-led Marianne Elliot renowned theater director previously has directed Angels in America, War Horse and The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nightime perhaps her most notable productions. This is still not the norm for productions which is frustrating! From reading about her the process with actors is collaborative, the product of this giving the actors real ownership over the role. In the rehearsal process actors played scenes in their own accent with their own names, to help them get close to the character. Which I thought was so ingenious. Elliot had been looking to direct Company, but it wasn't until she formed her production company Elliot and Harper productions, looking for good parts for women, when it was suggested turning Bobby into Bobbie. As I have said this is what has turned Company into something else.

Sometimes when you're watching a production if you find your eyes wandering around the set, instead of looking at the action on stage - you've got a problem. The set in Company doesn't necessarily place the show in a particular era or place. The set is almost like a tetris game or a puzzle, and Bobbie is working out how it all makes sense and goes together. The different sections, to me represent the compartments of thoughts, or how Bobbie compartmentalises different aspects of her life. Whilst also being different peoples apartments/homes, a subway train and a club. Which creates the feeling of a busy bustling metropolitan city. It works so ingeniously on so many different levels.

I don't want to single out any particular cast member, not even you Patti Lu Pone, which goes to show what an ensemble piece Company is, though centring around Bobbie. The harmonies, as expected with any Sondheim, production are tight, not only because Sondheim is partial to those close notes, but this cast does really become one on multilayered notes. The movement sections are equally as insync and detailed. Movement pieces that come to mind are Another Hundred People and Side by Side.

I do have a few highlights of this show, You Could Drive A Person Crazy, the barber shop take on the song is as close to a theatre orgasm I am going to get. The second is the outstanding performances to all those involved in Getting Married Today. Just pure genius. Finally Being Alive, such a huge sing and the perfect round up of the show.

Company is a production is challenging as an audience member in terms of structure, and that it makes you look so closely at your own life. It is also incredibly funny, there are moments where you will want to be extremely unBritish and stand a woop mid-production. I've seen many many productions, and I doubt that this one will move from the forefront of my mind. It's one of those musicals where you think you know it, but you can see it again and again, listen to again and again; each time will you find new quirks and little snippets. That's the sign of a job well done.

Finally you can listen to the cast recording on Spotify here

My London Bucket List

I am so fortunate that I am able to go down to London quite regularly, but I always stick to the same thing each, and every time I visit. My standard visit is now a fail safe, arrive at Liverpool Street, head to Topshop Oxford Circus, watch a matinee, grab dinner (Bills, Pret or Leon) go home. Which is great but not really getting a true reflection of this multifaceted, exciting, bustling city.

I should begin with the places I have featured in the image at the top.
Columbia Road Flower Market, such an iconic place and somewhere you picture when you think of London.
The Barbican Conservatory, I believe this is open once a month, and just looks like a really relaxing place with lots of plants (that as a 20 something millennial I am rather into).
Sketch, this restaurant especially the pink room pictured above and the toilets have reached a rather cult status. I am a fan of afternoon tea, not something I regularly indulge myself in, and boujee surroundings.
Finally pictured is the Sky Garden at the top of the Walkie Talkie building. What a view that place must have and the surroundings inside make my heart sing.

Other places I would like to tick off:
The Natural History Museum
Kew Gardens
The Shard (I am obsessed with this building for some reason!)
The V&A
Tonight Josephine
A Psycle class (this does partially scare me)
The London Eye at Night
A Cat Cafe
Peggy Porschen (again instagram goals, and coincidentally Peggy was my Nan's nickname)

I also want to finally track down Fenty Beauty and see it with my own eyeballs, get a Maria Tash piercing (maybe a 25th birthday treat to myself?!) and finally start trying all the independent coffee shops London has to offer.

Finally being the stagey that I am, I would like to see these 3 shows.
Come From Away - I have heard so many good things!!
Everybody is Talking About Jamie
Dear Evan Hansen - opening towards the end of this year.

That is how my bucket list is shaping up at the moment. London based friends I hope you are ready for a KP visit.

Feminism and Me 2019

Happy International Women's Day!!!

Today I thought I would chat/braindump about my relationship with feminism. I last wrote about feminism in 2017 two whole years ago, I have matured from then but I still have a lot to learn. Since then I have become less naive seeing how different aspects of people's identity has a direct impact on their paths through life. I would now say I am an intersectional feminist, my blinkers have started to fade away and I can see that the fight for equality is not as simple as it seems. 

Also since writing the post the #MeToo movement has seen dramatic and much needed rise in momentum, most notably with the Harvey Weinstein scandal. Since I last wrote on the topic more people are openly feminist and the stigma surrounding the word seems to have eased. ‘The original purpose of "Me Too" as used by Tarana Burke in 2006, was to empower women through empathy, especially young and vulnerable women. In October 2017, Alyssa Milano encouraged using the phrase as a hashtag to help reveal the extent of problems with sexual harassment and assault by showing how many people have experienced these events themselves.' Since then changes have started to be made most notably harassment in the workplace men having to stop and think about what they are saying and somehow only in the 21st century are realising their actions have CONSEQUENCES. They can be told to fuck off, disciplined, fired, taken to court - depending on what exactly they have done.

I have also tried to start educating myself, being aware of what I am consuming.  Last year I read Why I Am No Longer Talking To White People About Race by Reni Eddo-Lodge, which looks indepthly at the ingrained structural racism in society, which white people aren't even aware of and the ignorance of BAME peoples experience. This was one of my favourite books from last year, but I really need to read it again to let the dense information in this book sink in more thoroughly.  

Jess Phillips MP for Birmingham Yardley has recently been in the news for the Olive speech in the House of Commons.

"Since I was elected I have met many people who earn way more than £30,000 and have literally no discernible skills, not even one.

"I met none before - I thought I had met posh people before I came here, but I had actually just met people who eat olives.

"I had no idea of how posh a person could be.

"Waitrose is apparently not the marker for being really, really posh.

"There is a lovely Waitrose in Birmingham Hall Green; it is the one I like to frequent.

"I have not necessarily met such people in this place, although there is a smattering.

"I would not let some of those very rich people who earn huge amounts of money hold my pint if I had to go and vote while in the bar.

"Because they would almost certainly do it wrong."

She is one of only a few MP's who have a no nonsense attitude, who knows what she stands for and her beliefs. Her book Everywoman was an eye opening read and empowering. In fact when I gave it to Grace for Christmas, before I knew it it had been passed around her work place for all her colleagues to read.

Right to conclude this wordy post, in 2019 I now identify as an intersectional feminist, there have been massive steps forwards for Women's rights (not enough alas!) and I am trying to become more educated and woke, so I can speak more eloquently on things that matter to me.

Resources:
Books!
Feminists Don't Wear Pink and Other Lies curated by Scarlett Curtis a great book to start out on your feminist journey/discovery
The Guilty Feminist (book) by Deborah Francis-White for an overview and wide angle
Becoming Michelle Obama one of the most anticipated books of the year, Michelle's account of the journey from Chicago to the White House
Animal by Sara Pascoe examining how the animal within the human race effects the relationship between men, women and the patriarchy
Every Woman by Jess Phillips a feminist take on parent-hood to labour politics to domestic abuse
Why I Am No Longer Talking To White People About Race by Reni Eddo-Lodge what it says on the front cover
Podcasts!
The Guilty Feminist
Feminists Don't Wear Pink and Other Lies
Instagram!
I Weigh
The Insecure Girls Club
YouTube!
Leena Norms
Rowan Ellis

In all of the above categories I am looking for more by BAME, LGBT and other under represented people.

Then finally to finish this mammoth post off, a truly iconic advert voiced by Serena Williams

Hello, its me. Current favourites.

Hi, its me potentially back from the longest hiatus ever. I really fell out of love with my blog at the beginning of last year. I had just completed Blogmas in 2017 and I kind of felt I had nothing left to say. At the time of writing this, I am trying to brainstorm some ideas, so that March has some posts up and we will see where we go from there. For now I will stick to an absolute classic post on this here blog, as you can see in the title a current favourites.

Films:
These are perhaps my favourite films from the end of last year.
Mary Poppins Returns

Never before have I been so nervous for a sequel to be released, that is seriously saying something as I was terrified they were going to ruin Mamma Mia with Mamma Mia here we go again. ANYWHO back to Mary Poppins, possibly my favourite disney film (and stage show). There were nods to the original film whether that was little bit of music in the underscore, Mary Poppins 'we are still not a cod fish' to Michael and a cameo appearance from Karen Dotrice (the original Jane Banks!). Highlights for me were the scenes on the Royal Doulton bowl and Turning Turtle - that's just naming two. I really bloody loved this film.

Bohemian Rhapsody
This film has unlocked some kind of underlying Queen obsession. Queen's music is definitely part of the British psyche especially their anthem songs. Both my parents are fans, my Dad in particular reminding me he saw them back in 1986. Bo Rhap predominantly focuses on Freddie's life as the front man of the band, and whilst there are some chronological inaccuracies, it gave something you can't necessarily get from interviews/performances, a deeper idea of the person.
I also feel this film has made my generation closer with my parents generation when there is definite friction between the two in these times.

Theatre:
Company
I have SO much to say about Company, in particular the 2018/19 London production. I am hoping to get all my thoughts out in a post entirely dedicated to it. Which no one will find interesting but me. This production is my new benchmark for musical theatre productions. It's extremely honest, funny and intelligent.

Waitress

I first mentioned Waitress back in spring 2017 on the blog, talking through my favourite soundtracks I was listening to. 2019 comes around and the show transfers to the West End, which I was lucky enough to grab some tickets in previews. We walked into the theatre and it smelt of freshly cooked baked goods - which is dreamy. I was already somewhat familiar with the music, due to my prior dedication to the soundtrack, but I hadn't listened to it for a while. The music as expected was beaut, however this was a more grown up and sophisticated musical than I expected. (that makes it sound boring - trust me it was not) If you are looking to see something in London this is probably second to Company on my what you should see list.

RSC's Romeo and Juliet
A Shakespeare that I have come away somewhat enthused by. This was fast moving and kept me gripped throughout. This was super engaging and I did not feel intimidated by this production. I also watched the signed performance, the signing which was integrated with the rest of the performance which really added to the performance for all members of the audience. This was a very important well executed step forwards for accessible performances.

Instagram accounts/Influencers:
dianachamomile, pipjolley, geehawkestattoo, meganellaby
Since taking a step back from my blog and to an extent blogs in general, Instagram is where I have headed to for fashion inspiration. 3/4 of the insta accounts here are fashion. I like people who have fun with colour and encourage me to step outside of the easiness of monochrome. Also shout out to Geehawkes whose tattoos are just so beaut, and making me seriously tempted to get inked myself.

Norwich Theatre Royal Top Picks

Today is World Theatre Day, so I thought I would share my picks from the new Norwich Theatre Royal brochure. I am going straight in with what I think is the dark horse of the programming.

Cirkopolis
Saturday 13th - Sunday 14th October 2018

This is a company in the same ilk as Cirque Du Soleil, therefore I thought it was not going to be my cup of tea. I seriously advise you watch the trailer for this production, any preconceptions you have about Circus, this will change your ideas.

Macbeth
Tuesday 30th October - Saturday 3rd November 2018

Despite the not so rave reviews from the current production at the National Theatre, this I think is definitely one to watch this year. Macbeth was the first Shakespeare I studied way back in year 7 and I'm excited to see it live on stage.

Matilda the Musical
Tuesday 16th July - Saturday 17th August 2019

As soon as I heard this was coming to Norwich Theatre Royal I was so excited, as I have been meaning to see Matilda in the west end for years, but haven't achieved that quite yet. This has so many good songs in such as 'When I Grow Up' and 'Naughty'. There were queues out of the door when it went on sale, Norwich is going to go mad for this.

SIX the musical
(Norwich Playhouse)
Wednesday 11th July - Sunday 15th July 2018

This is a new musical being produced in association with Norwich Theatre Royal and Norwich Playhouse, putting the Six wives of Henry VIII in the spotlight. With a similar vibe to Hamilton being a pop musical with serious girl boss feels.

Favourite Films and TV ATM

Queer Eye

Quite frankly if you haven't heard about Queer Eye, has your internet been disabled for the last week or so? The makeover show we have been waiting for is here, it's not superficial and its building bridges. The Fab Five (Bobby, Karamo, Antoni, Tan and Jonathan) are challenging the perception of gay people in the deep south of the USA, men on the show admitting they simply had not mixed with LGBT people in their lives. Whilst this is in essence a makeover show it is so much more, and I challenge you not to cry during an episode.

Ladybird

Relatable AF. Is my short review of Lady Bird. 

The narrative here isn’t the important part of the film, we follow Lady Bird in her last year of high school. It’s an exploration of that relationship between teenage daughter and Mum. I don’t feel like the trailer, really tells you what the film is going to be about, and the film surprised me so much. 

I, Tonya

Margot Robbie, I did not realise quite how great an actress you are, entirely transformed within this film.
I, Tonya follows the life and career of Tonya Harding US Olympic Ice Skater up until the 1994 including the infamous attack on Nancy Harrigan. I knew I had to see this film as soon as I saw the first trailer and was instantly curious about Tonya Harding, a little bit of modern history I was entirely unaware of.
Truth was the theme of this film, there were key scenes played with the different versions of events given by the people in Tonya's life. I feel as an audience that it left me feeling a bit agitated at times not being an easy watch, replicating how the characters were feeling on screen.
Since watching the film I have been watching the original footage of the skating and some interviews doing some of my own research.

Call Me By Your Name

A film I was sure I'd be waiting for the DVD release to watch. My friend Grace has been singing it's praises for a number of months, and I was gutted to have missed it in cinemas.
Call Me By Your Name is such a gorgeously shot film telling the story of Elio spending the summer of 1983 in his parent's summer residence in Italy. When Oliver working with Elio's father as an intern meet and after a slow start a summer romance ensues.
A stunning coming of age story, and there are many positives for LGBT people. Firstly neither Elio or Oliver die, or has a terminal illness. Secondly the scene between Elio and his father, whilst Elio is suffering with heartbreak, is every kid's ideal coming out conversation with a parent.

February Work Outfits | Fashion

This month I have a bumper edition on the outfit front, Spring is on its way and I wanted to show as many as my cold weather outfits as possible. This winter my two obsessions have been my Dr Martens which are complete rediscovery and the colour pink. As usual outfits are a mixture of old and new pieces, so I have linked what I can.

Pink Outfits

Outfit 1 Top and Cardi Primark, Dungarees Fat Face, Dr Martens 

Outfit 2 Dress Lazy Oaf, Dr Martens

Outfit 3 Top Lazy Oaf, Cardi Primark, Jeans Topshop, Trainers Nike

Wednesday 7th

Jumper Marks and Spencer, Culottes and Boots New Look, Coat and Hat Topshop

Thursday 8th

Jumper Marks and Spencer, Trousers Topshop, Dr Martens

Outfit 1 Top Hamilton, Trousers and Loafers Topshop

Outfit 2 Jumper Topshop, Dress Jack Wills, Dr Martens

Outfit 3 Top The Addams Family Tour, Cardi Primark, Jeans Topshop, Dr Martens

Saturday 17th

Cardigan Lazy Oaf, T-Shirt ASOS, Jeans Topshop, Converse

Outfit 1 Cardigan Lazy Oaf, Dress Topshop, Dr Martens

Outfit 2 Shirt Charity Shop, Jumper Marks and Spencer, Jeans Topshop, Dr Martens

I hope you enjoyed this bumper outfit addition post. Fingers crossed there's not too many more wintery outfits to be featured!!

Current Favourites

It would be hard to deny that my absolute favourite of the past month was appearing in Top Hat at Norwich Theatre Royal this month with The Norfolk and Norwich Operatic Society.

I had jokingly said for a few years that I was in Amateur Dramatics retirement, but Top Hat would be the show to bring me back onto the stage. My dressing room was full of all my favourite girls, we had a right laugh and this week I have definitely felt their absence in my life this week. For me nothing could beat the feeling of dancing and performing on stage, and I hope to do some more this year. I have my story saved from Top Hat on my instagram highlights, if you want so behind the scenes access.

The Pink Coat
This coat was available from Topshop I think around November time but then disappeared into the distance. This piece is so flipping warm despite definitely being my shortest coat, but then the pink makes it such a fun coat to wear. I do feel like a Latitude sheep but I freaking love it.

The Baker Boy Hat
I was inspired by Helen Anderson and Megan Ellaby for this purchase, I feel it this hat just adds personality to any outfit. Hats are often perceived as being a difficult thing to wear, meaning your outfit looks quite individual and like you're not one of the crowd. I'm thinking of either getting a patterned hat or a brighter coloured one before Spring hits.

The Last Five Years Soundtrack

This is an old favourite, I remember watching the film when it came out, I think the format of the musical is really refreshing, a couple each character starting at opposite ends of the their romance, one from meeting the other freshly broken up. My favourite songs are I'm Still Hurting and A Summer in Ohio.

3 Outfits from January | Fashion

January a somewhat meh month, Christmas is over, but there is a chance for new beginnings. As usual I am sharing some of my work outfits of the month, I have tried to dress cheerfully to help avoid the January blues.

I have linked everything that I can, but most of this is old stuff restyled.

13th January (Blue Monday)

Hoody Jack Wills Trousers River Island, Converse Office

14th  January

Jumper Old, Skirt ASOS, Converse

22nd January

Leopard Print Shirt Charity Shop, Jeans Topshop, Converse

As you can see this month, I have tried to avoid falling in the traps of wearing grey and camoflauging against the grey drearyness of this month. Colour and pattern is always sure to cheer my up!

My 2018 To Be Read

This year I am determined to get my reading back on track, looking at the list below it is definitely weighted towards non-fiction. I feel some of that is to do with me wanting to be less ignorant about the world and be more informed.

In no particular order...

1. Balancing Acts by Nicholas Hytner
Before receiving this as a gift I had no idea this book existed. It is about Nichola Hytner's time as Artistic Director of the National Theatre. I will get to read about hugely successful productions such as Warhorse, but also about broadening the theatre audience and changing perception of theatre. Which are two things I am extremely interested in, working in theatre myself.

2. The Museum of Extraordinary Things by Alice Hoffman
This book has extremely mixed reviews, something about the blurb and cover intrigued me. A magical realism novel set in New York around a side walk Freak Show. Coralie daughter of the impresario running the freak show and runaway photographer Eddie meet.

3. The F Word by Lily Pebbles
Potentially one of the books I'm most excited to read this year. This all about female friendship, something not hugely portrayed as important in the media, but yet is so central to mine and many other women's lives.

4. Modern Romance by Aziz Ansari
The book is a culmination of a massive research project looking at how people find love and relationships in the 2010's, following comedian Aziz Ansari's run in with a girl who didn't reply to his text about a second date, left him on a spiral of thoughts of why he didn't know how to deal with the situation. Yet years ago people seemingly found romance more easily.

5. What Happened by Hillary Clinton
Mainly out of curiosity I want to read this, like many people around the world I was shocked when she did not win. Yes, I'm aware she has been somewhat controversial and she wouldn't have been perfect. The questions is still how.

6. The Vagina Monologues by Eve Ensler
As the title suggests this is an episodic play, each monologue discusses and explores different parts of the feminine experience. I would love to see this performed live also. It was described by the New York Times as on of the most important  pieces of political theatre in the 1990's.

7. The Power by Naomi Alderson
Fiction alert! The premise of this is that girls, gain the power to produce electricity, switching from Men having power in a patriarchal society to women and the effects this has on all aspects of life. It sounds extremely interesting.

8. Everywoman by Jess Philips
I'd say compare to most I'm into politics, but not as much as I would like to be. Everywoman is written by Birmingham Labour MP, giving an insight in what it's like to be a woman in parliament, as well as how she got there and about being a woman in general. I got sucked in on the 'Look Inside' pages on Amazon.

9. Why I'm No Longer Talking to White People About Race by Reni Eddo-Lodge
This featured in a few 2017 Book Favourite videos in the BookTube community. As a somewhat privileged white person I am ignorant about the issues and history of race and racism in my own country, and I shouldn't be, because whilst I am not a racist person my ignorance is still part of the problem.

I'm eager to get reading all the books on this list, I've actually taken the time to do some research, and now hopefully I am making myself accountable.

New Years Resolutions

January might be one of the coldest and most miserable months of the year, but like everyone including your aunt's, best mate's, nan I like to put together a few New Years resolutions for myself.

Dance
I cannot tell you how much my body yearns to dance again. I danced pretty much everyday from the ages of 10 to 21 when I quit my dance course at university to move back home and work in theatre. Two years later (cannot believe its been that long!!) I need to get myself back into class. I'm thinking starting with a ballet class. It's times like these when if I lived in London this would be a lot easier.

Read 10 Books
For the past few years I have set myself the challenge of reading a book a month, last year I stopped reading in May and then finished only two further books bringing my total to 7 books last year. 2018 I am aiming to read at least 10, anything more than that will be an absolute bonus.

Go to a new city in the UK and abroad
I achieved this resolution last year by going on trips to Paris and Edinburgh, proving you don't need to go to the other side of the world to see new places. This year I'm think York or Bristol (with Bristol I can also pop to my favourite city Bath), then abroad Amsterdam and Copenhagen are calling my name I think. Wherever I go I will of course do some travel posts, and use my #KPontour on instagram.

Go to a March or Protest
There are so many things I am passionate about, which I often tweet or blog about, but living in an era with events such as with the Women's March, #MeToo and the recent #FreePeriod protest. These are things I believe in, and I want to support them in person and not just be randomly put out in the universe via the internet. Stay tuned.

2017 Favourites

HAPPY 2018!

Hello, how is this post coming to you from 2018 - wtf. Last year I really got back on the blogging train, ending the year with blogmas which was a little bit crazy juggling that with work and rehearsals. It's now time to chat through some of my favourite things from last year.

TV

Easily my TV show of the year, in the UK we're about a season behind the US, but fear not seasons 1-3 are now on Netflix. This an intense show, with many twists and turns, and great acting. Headed by the one and only Viola Davis. The cast is diverse and its extremely refreshing to see.

Never have I been so excited for a second season of a show before. Season 1 knocked my socks off, then once the trailers started to be put out in the middle of the year I was very pumped indeed. October arrived and anticipation was at an all new level. There might have been a slow start, but season 2 was bigger and better than the previous. Before I knew it, the wait for the next season began again.

Film

Beauty and the Beast

This was everything I hoped it would be. I was nervous that it wouldn't meet expectations but as soon as the opening number began my heart was happy. I laughed, I welled up, I cried. 

Wonder Woman

This is such a girl power film, finally giving young girls a fierce and independent superhero to look up to. I'm not a super hero film fan, but this blew me away.

Youtubers

My favourite discovery on the YouTube front has to be Megan Ellaby, her style has been an absolute huge inspiration, reintroducing colour to my wardrobe and just a bit of fun. Until this year I felt my style was a bit wishy washy and didn't necessarily reflect myself as a person.

Other shout outs this year go to InTheFrow, Helen Anderson and Rose and Rosie.

Music

Taylor Swift - Reputation

This is an album I was extremely dubious about, but there is not one song on this album I dislike or won't listen to. Favourite songs at the time of writing this post Don't Blame Me and Dancing With Our Hands Tied.

Other music favourites I've had on repeat all year are the Dear Evan Hansen and Waitress Cast Recordings.

Clothing

Dungarees

All Saints Leather Jacket

Gingham Dress

The Yellow Jumper 

And I think that's everything I wanted to mention! Thank you for taking the time to read my blog last year it means a lot. Let's find out what 2018 has in store for us.

Favourite Blogposts of 2017

Hello, now what we are truly heading towards the round up of 2017, I thought I would take the opportunity to talk about some of my favourite posts I have written this year.

Let's Talk Cruelty Free Beauty
This post was something I am hugely passionate about, I briefly chat about my feelings on animal testing, tell you what cruelty free make up I use and give you an opportunity to sign the Body Shop's petition. It's my most read post of they year, but I urge you to go and read it if you haven't already.

What I wear to work - December
My favourite series I have started on my blog this year, the concept is super simple and I love looking back on what I've worn throughout the year.

Stationery Haul
I love stationery, and this post contains one of my favourite flat lays of the year, plus it was an opportunity to share my favourite places for purchasing stationery.

The General Election 2017
I believe that know matter the size of your platform, if you believe in something it is your responsibility to speak out in some way. It is a post I will return to every time we have an election, it is extremely important that young people have a say in our future and are politically active, rather than just complaining about the way things are!

Beauty and the Beast... A Few Thoughts
This was one of the most talked about films of early 2017, I must say I loved it and felt compared to write down all my thoughts on it pretty much straightaway.

Thanks for popping by!

xxx

Norwich at Christmas 🎄

One thing Norwich excels at is looking festive I really must say. So a couple of times over the last few weeks I have gone round snapping all the pretty lights!

The first stop on my walk was the Assembly House.

The next place was the light tunnel, lets face it do you really live in Norwich if you haven't taken 93 pictures of the tunnel?

City Hall

Thanks for popping by!

xxx

2018 Bullet Journal Set Up 🎄

Hello! Today I am showing you my bullet journal set up for 2018. Firstly I have 2, one for work only and my second I'm showing you today is my home one which can be a bit scrap booky, creative or just random to do lists depending on what I need from it at the time. I am not starting in a new journal just continuing on from where I am!

Year at a glance.. this set up takes so long. But I really like referencing to it, throughout the year.

Next I have done a couple of pages that I can just keep referring to throughout the year.

New Year's Resolutions. Currently empty, as I haven't thought about them yet!

Book Tracker. The second half of this year I just have not read, really at all. I'm hoping this will encourage and motivate me.

Films to Watch, I am one of those people who seemingly doesn't watch films and never know film references. Any suggestions of what I should watch - let me know!

Birthdays, this will be full of friends and family once I get round to filling out the page.

I will be setting up for January at some point next week.

Thanks for popping by!

xxx