Culture is the thread that brings us together. Through a shared love of British creativity — from cinema and fashion to live theatre and gallery spaces — I want to help connect people who are seeking more than just content: people who want to participate.
My aim is to produce a weekly update highlighting cultural events happening across London that we can attend individually or as small groups. Over time, I’d like this to grow into a regular in-person trend research circle — where we explore what’s shaping culture right now, and who’s behind the ideas influencing today’s creative movements.
Movie of the Week - The Ballad of Wallis Island
The Ballad of Wallis Island is now showing across the city, and I’d recommend seeing it at Vue — tickets are just £6. I watched it at the Vue in Fulham Broadway earlier this week and loved it. Writers Tim Key and Tom Basden give amazing performances, and music is the real heart of the story. It creates a deep and emotional narrative between characters who have been brought back together through their shared love of music.
This is a warm and funny film, but also very moving at times. The scenery is beautiful throughout, and the framing and use of interiors by director James Griffiths really stood out to me — not just for storytelling, but as inspiration for anyone interested in visual culture, trend forecasting, or fashion imagery.
The outfits deserve a mention too. They feel completely lived-in — a mix of band merch, old mementos, and practical gear suited to life on a remote island, exposed to wind, sea, and rain. For me, that balance of costume and character said a lot without being forced. If you’re into culture, music, or visual storytelling, this one’s definitely worth seeing.
Artist of the Week - Jenny Saville: The Anatomy of Painting at the National Portrait Gallery
I haven’t been to see this show yet but I’m planning to go in the next week or two if anyone fancies joining me. I’m passionate about the fact that the funding and exposure given to young British artists during the early and mid-90s set off an explosion of British culture — where we sold “cool” to the world for the next decade. Jenny Saville’s stunning retrospective of 45 works made throughout her career should be a reminder of the power of art and its impact on shaping society — from the building of Tate Modern to the coining of "Cool Britannia."
London Theatre - Stereophonic at the Duke of York’s Theatre
Stereophonic is now playing at the Duke of York’s Theatre, with matinee tickets available Thursday and Saturday for just £20 — great value for one of the most talked-about new productions in London. Like The Ballad of Wallis Island, music plays a central role here, but in a much more intense, emotionally raw way.
Before seeing it, I’d been told it had a connection to Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours sessions, and while the writer David Adjmi has said that wasn’t intentional, it’s easy to see why people make the link. The play follows a 70s rock band recording an album in a studio, and it’s all about the creative process, tension, and how personal relationships get tested when you’re working that closely with people you love — or once loved.
The set is incredible — detailed and atmospheric — and the sound design is some of the best I’ve experienced in theatre. But what really hit me was how honest it felt. It shows how creative work can bring people together or push them to breaking point. Anyone who’s ever worked on a team project, especially under pressure, will feel this one in their bones.
Would love to hear what you think if you go.
Brand to Watch - Simswear – 20 New Quebec St
After falling in love with the film The Ballad of Wallis Island, I wanted to find a brand that represents exquisite craftsmanship and the passion of acquiring garments that can be treasured and loved — mementos that become part of the wearer’s story. Simswear go into detail about the origins of their raw materials and manufacturing. Their “About” page is a joy to read, and they offer a repair and reconditioning service to ensure the garments last a lifetime.
If you’ve been feeling the disconnect, like the city’s moving fast but no one’s talking, you’re not alone. Let’s build something real — not just around trends, but around friendship, conversation, and a shared joy in showing up for culture together.
This isn’t just about watching, it’s about belonging. If that sounds like something you’ve been missing too — come with us. We’re starting now.
#Simswear #Stereophonic #Jenny Saville #The Ballad of Wallis Island
