Switching off and enjoying the sun
Summer holiday diary
I’ve had a different kind of week and it’s meant I’ve barely been online. It’s interesting how a few days away from social media reduces that imperative feeling that you must be sharing what you’re up to at all times.
I couldn’t take part in You Are The Media’s working together session this week, which is when I usually write this, so here I am at 11.06pm on Thursday putting some thoughts together.
It’s summer holidays, which means a change of pace. So far we’ve explored Hever Castle, which I remember loving as a kid, and didn’t disappoint; been to Battle and walked the field where William the Conquerer defeated King Harold; had fish and chips on the pier at Hastings looking out over the sea; and discovered the joy of going out and doing something ‘after work’ (5pm).
I’ve also been going through some of my parents’ belongings and finding photos of myself from my christening to my first graduation. I’ve also discovered that Mum kept every programme from all our public performances. I now have a lovely archive box filled with family memorabilia.
Things I think are worth sharing this week:
This episode of The News Agents on the far right, disinformation and the Southport riots
Like everyone, I’m horrified by the stabbing in Southport in Monday and the subsequent violence. I started listening to The News Agents a few weeks ago and it’s now a staple part of my day. This episode explains what’s happening and what we can do to stop the spread of disinformation online.
There’s nothing like storytelling for getting people to take information on board.
As you know, storytelling is one of my favourite things. Hever Castle had a brilliant family audio tour, which my 8 and 10-year-old enjoyed. They also put on a jousting tournament. My son and his cousin played ‘Henry VIII’ in the garden a few days later.
Battle also had a good interactive display and a film which enabled my children to clearly understand what happened in 1066.
Race Across The World is back
I watched series one a few months ago and loved it. My wanderlust was reignited and I can’t wait to take my children on an adventure across Europe, possibly with them directing. This week the trailer for Celebrity Race Across The World was announced. I confess, the only one I’ve heard of is Radio 2 DJ Scott Mills but I can’t wait for some high drama escapism.
Watch Alan Cumming share how he came up with his persona for The Traitors US
Talking of high drama escapism and Scott Mills… I love Alan Cumming and I love Schitt’s Creek, so I was delighted to hear this interview with Alan by Scott in which he revealed his inspiration for his on screen persona in The Traitors US is Moira Rose as him. Enjoy a minute of pure camp joy.
