Britain is in its second lockdown of the Coronavirus pandemic. I’m sure at this point I am not the only one who thought that, pardon the infamous phrase, this would all be over by Christmas.
Where the first lockdown saw a flurry of online resources to keep us all occupied, forgive me if I am wrong, but there seems to be somewhat of a scarcity this time around. Arguably, between work and studying there is perhaps little time for much else – or so it seems.
But on the off chance that you don’t feel like heading to the library or hitting the books, here are some cultural pointers to keep you above water when faced with yet more restrictions.
MUSIC
Ariana Grande’s new album, ‘Positions’
Her third album in two years searches for peace, tracing the quiet work of piecing yourself together and delighting in giddy new romance at the same time. The star’s lyrical content is jaw-droppingly good fun, and this sixth record does feature some massive pop tunes … alongside more indistinct material.
BOOKS
Barack Obama’s book, ‘A Promised Land’.
A riveting, deeply personal account of history in the making, from the president who inspired us to believe in the power of democracy.
In the stirring, highly anticipated first volume of his presidential memoirs, Barack Obama tells the story of his improbable odyssey from a young man searching for his identity to the leader of the free world, describing in strikingly personal detail both his political education and the landmark moments of the first term of his historic presidency—a time of dramatic transformation and turmoil.
FILMS
Directed by Ben Wheatley, the new adaption of Rebecca based on Daphne Du Maurier’s classic novel.
On the French Riviera, an unnamed young woman (Lily James) meets and falls in love with a wealthy aristocrat, Maxim de Winter (Armie Hammer). They marry, and return to his English mansion, the infamous Manderley. But the cold housekeeper, Mrs Danvers (Kristin Scott Thomas), is determined to keep alive the memory of the first Mrs de Winter, Rebecca — at any cost.
GAMES
The star game of the first lockdown, Animal Crossing, is already enjoying another surge in popularity, as people seek a peaceful, soothing island escape from their own homes. It’s now autumn in the game as well, with warm colours, cosy jumpers, and mushrooms and acorns to forage for.
ONLINE THEATRE
Although the National Theatre’s run of ‘At Home’ shows have ceased, there are still several online productions circulating the web if you know where to find them.
The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk is a romantic play by Daniel Jamieson based on the paintings by Marc Chagall of his wife Bella. The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk traces this young couple as they navigate the Pogroms, the Russian Revolution, and each other. Woven throughout with music and dance inspired by the Russian Jewish tradition.
This romantic classic will be streamed live from the 3-5 December on Wise Children Digital’s website – https://www.wisechildrendigital.com/
