Category Archives: music

From tequila cocktails to themed pop-ups, Taylor Swift fans celebrate ‘The Life of a Showgirl’

From Mexico City to Manila, the United Kingdom to the United States, Taylor Swift fans hooted, sobbed happy tears, and danced their way through the pop star’s latest album release, *The Life of a Showgirl*. Swift’s 12th studio offering dropped Friday, and her Swifties were more than ready for it.

Many were dripping in the color orange to usher in her latest era at gatherings around the world. Some closed their eyes to take in the fresh dozen tracks amid the chaotic crowds around them.

Jose Maria Bastida, a writer, rocked an orange sequin tuxedo jacket at a watch party in a Mexico City restaurant serving Swift-themed cocktails, including a tequila-heavy *Ophelia’s Juice* and a liquored-up *Showgirl Slushy*. “I feel like it’s super experimental,” he said of the album, “because it’s supposed to bring a lot of new stuff and we haven’t seen that more sexy side of Taylor Swift.”

### Fans Snatch Up *Showgirl* in All Its Variants

In Los Angeles, the fervent lined up at midnight at a Target to snap up the new music on vinyl and CD. Maria-Elena Garcia rented a hotel room and drove in from Santa Barbara. “I like a lot of her values and like we have a lot similar values. For example, cats,” she said.

### Swift Schools AMC on How to Treat Fans

In theaters, Swift is schooling AMC on how to treat her fans. The theater chain has granted special permission for moviegoers to sing and dance their way through screenings of *The Official Release Party of a Showgirl*, in select theaters for the weekend only. The film is screening around the world.

Added bonus: No trailers beforehand.

Fiona Cela, 11, in London woke up at 4:30 a.m. to listen to the album. She then headed out with her mother to the studios of Global’s Capital radio, hoping for a glimpse of Swift as she gave an interview there. On her agenda after that: school.

“Taylor as a person is just super kind and loving,” she said, her wrists stacked with Swift-themed friendship bracelets. “Her music is so inspiring.”

### Swifties Celebrate at a Special Pub

At the Black Dog pub in London, thought to be the location for Swift’s song *Black Dog* from her last album, vacationing American Natalie Richmond, 43, showed up to mark the occasion. Her two Swiftie daughters woke her up extra early to listen to the album.

“We actually lived in Nashville early on so we’ve been following her ever since she began,” Richmond said. “She’s relatable. She’s the person that everybody wants to be friends with. We all listen to her music and think I’d love to go out and hang out with her.”

Longtime Swiftie Helen Brabant-Bleakley showed up at the Black Dog to mark her 30th birthday, wearing a teal sash with gold lettering that read: *The Life of a Birthday Girl*. “My good friend Taylor Swift gave me the best present ever by dropping a new album,” she said, noting she’s already picked a couple of favorite cuts from the album: “Father Figure” and “Elizabeth Taylor.”

### Drag Queens Lip-Sync Swift as Hundreds Cheer

A Manila mall went full Swift with a drag show, games, raffles, and performers. Hundreds of screaming fans dressed in showgirl gear braved rain to celebrate at an outdoor amphitheater.

Among them was Cyril Aviguetero, 18. With a red showgirl headpiece complementing his outfit, he was most excited about Track 7, *Actually Romantic*. Asked why, he mused: “I’m not sure, but I’m also trying to find what’s actually romantic in my life,” he said.

Other Swift events were held around the Philippines.

### Kansas City’s Union Station Lights Up for Swift

Kansas City’s Union Station was lit up in orange and teal in celebration. Musician Chloe Rose entertained Swift fans with four hours of covers at a spot there ahead of the release as the crowd made friendship bracelets and sipped on themed cocktails.

Number balloons for 12 floated around as Rose sang and played guitar and keyboards.

Fan Tara Pickarell showed up but chose solitude to later take in the new work. “I have to be in my own space to listen to it. I need my own little bubble.”

Pickarell is happy the album is pop-heavy. “I do like her slower songs, but I’m excited to get back to like *1989* and *Reputation* vibes,” she said.

### Showgirl Pop-Up Draws Lines for Photos with Props

In New York, hundreds of fans lined up to walk through a three-day Spotify pop-up offering five showgirl-themed rooms. They took photos with feathery boas and other props.

“I feel like there’s so few moments like this where you actually get to connect with other fans,” said Ali Meehan. “Like we all kind of listen in our rooms, alone in our houses.”

This time around, Swift includes abundant nods to fiancé Travis Kelce amid the glitz, glamour, and Las Vegas lechery of it all. This Swift isn’t waiting in the wings, and she’s definitely not holed up alone.

“This is so different from the last album, but in a really good way,” said Hannah Zuckerbraun, a fan in a Swift T-shirt among Target-goers in Los Angeles. “Like, it’s a lot happier sounding. I feel like it’s perfect and upbeat.”
https://wtop.com/lifestyle/2025/10/from-tequila-cocktails-to-themed-pop-ups-taylor-swift-fans-celebrate-the-life-of-a-showgirl/

Hindustani classical singer Pandit Chhannulal Mishra dies at 89

**Hindustani Classical Singer Pandit Chhannulal Mishra Dies at 89**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | Oct 02, 2025, 09:58 AM*

Renowned Indian classical singer and Padma Vibhushan awardee, Pandit Chhannulal Mishra, passed away on Thursday, October 2, at the age of 89. He spent his final moments at his daughter’s residence in Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh.

According to his daughter Namrata, Mishra had been hospitalized for 17 to 18 days due to age-related health issues before returning home. He passed away around 4:00 AM. His last rites are scheduled to be performed in Varanasi at 5:00 PM on Thursday.

**Musical Legacy**

Pandit Chhannulal Mishra was a stalwart of the Banaras gharana and was widely respected for his mastery of Khayal and Purab Ang Thumri styles in Hindustani classical music. Over the course of his illustrious career, he received numerous prestigious awards including the Uttar Pradesh Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, the Shiromani Award from Sur Singar Sansad, and the Government of India’s Sangeet Natak Akademi fellowship.

**Contributions to Film**

In addition to his classical music achievements, Mishra lent his soulful voice to several Bollywood films. Notably, he sang “Kaun Si Dor” in the 2011 film *Aarakshan*, which starred Deepika Padukone, Saif Ali Khan, and Amitabh Bachchan. He also performed the title track for Sunny Deol’s 2018 drama satire *Mohalla Assi*.

**Family and Honors**

Pandit Chhannulal Mishra is survived by his son Ramkumar Mishra, a professional tabla player, and three daughters. Throughout his life, he was honored with some of India’s highest civilian awards — the Padma Bhushan in 2010 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2020.

His profound contributions have left an indelible mark on the Indian classical music scene, inspiring generations of musicians and music lovers alike.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/classical-singer-pandit-chhannulal-mishra-dies-at-89/story

Pandit Chhannulal Mishra Dies At 89 In Mirzapur; Legendary Singer Had Asked Family Not To Place Him On Ventilator

Padma Vibhushan awardee and legendary semi-classical singer Pandit Chhannulal Mishra passed away in the early hours of Thursday, October 2. He breathed his last around 4:30 am at his residence in Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh. He was 89 years old.

His final rites will be performed in Kashi, and preparations are underway to bring his mortal remains to Varanasi. According to several media reports, his younger daughter, Dr. Namrata Mishra, stated that Pandit Mishra’s health worsened late on Wednesday night. He was rushed to the hospital but was declared dead by doctors around 4:30 am.

His only son, tabla maestro Pandit Ramkumar Mishra, left Delhi for Varanasi by road, as he could not get a flight ticket immediately. He is expected to reach the city by Thursday evening.

Pandit Mishra, regarded as the last prominent semi-classical singer in the league of Girija Devi, had been battling multiple health issues over the past few months. On September 11, his condition deteriorated significantly. A 15-member medical team from Mirzapur Medical College began treating him at his residence in the Mahant Shiwala area.

His blood sugar levels had spiked, and his hemoglobin dropped to a dangerously low level. Despite intensive medical treatment, including blood transfusions at Ramakrishna Mission Hospital in Mirzapur, his health continued to decline.

On September 12, doctors confirmed his hemoglobin had dropped to 7.6, causing severe pain and other complications. He was later referred to Sir Sunderlal Hospital at Banaras Hindu University (BHU), where doctors initially suspected a heart attack. However, tests ruled this out.

Pandit Mishra was diagnosed with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, a serious lung condition, and was placed on non-invasive ventilator support. He also suffered from Type-2 diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoarthritis, and prostate enlargement. Prolonged illness had caused bedsores that led to septicemia (blood infection).

Doctors at BHU advised his family on September 15 to take him home when his condition failed to improve. Pandit Mishra had earlier expressed that he did not want to be placed on a ventilator, and his family honored his wishes.

After 13 days of treatment at BHU, he was discharged on September 26 and taken back to Mirzapur in an ambulance by his daughter.

Pandit Chhannulal Mishra was a legendary Indian classical and semi-classical vocalist from the Banaras (Varanasi) gharana. He was celebrated for his command over khayal, thumri, dadra, chaiti, kajri, and bhajan singing.

Born in 1936 in Ballia district, Uttar Pradesh, he later settled in Varanasi. Pandit Mishra was known not only for his powerful and emotive renditions but also for preserving traditional Banarasi folk-based forms like Hori and Chaiti.

He performed extensively across India and abroad, enchanting audiences with his soulful music.

In recognition of his immense contribution to Indian classical music, he was conferred with some of the nation’s highest civilian honors, including the Padma Bhushan in 2010 and the prestigious Padma Vibhushan in 2019.

His legacy as a torchbearer of semi-classical music will continue to inspire generations to come.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/pandit-chhannulal-mishra-dies-at-89-in-mirzapur-legendary-singer-had-asked-family-not-to-place-him-on-ventilator

Roll up, roll up: the Burnie Show is back with full-on fun for families

**Free Two-Day Music Workshop for Young People**
Are you aged 16-25? If yes, then you need to be a part of this free two-day music workshop for young people at the new Burnie Arts Centre. It will be two full days of music making, conversation, and connection.

Break open your ideas and turn them into full songs. Explore how lyrics, melody, and structure work together. Work through creative blocks and find new ways to write. Get real about booking gigs, building an audience, and releasing your work. Share your songs and hear how they land.

Led by nationally recognized facilitators from The Push, a national youth music training organisation, with support from Music Tasmania. Spots are limited. For more information and registration, visit the Burnie Arts Centre website.

### Burnie Show and Agri-Expo | October 3-4
The first weekend of October, the Burnie Show and Agri-Expo will take over the Agriplex at Romaine. The event features a wide array of attractions, including a country fashion show and a battle of the bands that draw visitors from across the region.

Tickets are available online.

### Annual Spring Show Spectacular | October 3-5
The Devonport Orchid Society Inc. Annual Spring Orchid Show Spectacular will be held at Maidstone Park Memorial Hall, Main Road, Spreyton, from October 3 to 5. This event features Australian native and exotic orchids, alongside a floral art show.

Enjoy orchid potting demonstrations, advice, floral art posie sales, orchid plants and bark sales, and a monster raffle with marvellous prizes.

Opening hours:
– Friday, October 3: 2pm to 5pm
– Saturday, October 4: 9am to 4:30pm
– Sunday, October 5: 9am to 3pm

### TASART Exhibition | October 3–25
The Burnie Coastal Art Group presents TASART, now in its 47th year. This exhibition is a competition with donated prizes each valued around $1,000, and a major prize of $5,000.

The exhibition opens with a cocktail party on October 3 at 6pm at Burnie Coastal Art Gallery, 211 Upper Mount Street, Burnie. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased from the BCAG website.

### Suitcase Rummage Market | October 4
For thrifty, sustainable, and organic lovers! Join the Waratah-Wynyard Council for the Suitcase Rummage Market at The Don, 26 Goldie Street, Wynyard, from 10am to 2pm.

Explore a diverse range of vendors offering organic produce, handmade crafts, upcycled products, and eco-friendly goods. For more information, contact Natalie on 0419 334 218.

### Coastal Pathway Ultra | October 5
Tasmania’s first running event of its kind, the Coastal Pathway Ultra, starts and finishes in Latrobe. This unique race follows the scenic Coastal Pathway through three municipalities, showcasing Tasmania’s North-West Coast’s breathtaking natural beauty.

Distance options: 64km, 42.2km, 21.1km, and 10km — suitable for ultra-athletes and beginners alike. Whether chasing a personal best or soaking in the views, this event offers a one-of-a-kind experience.

To enter, visit the official event website.

### Dutch Fest | October 5
Celebrate Dutch heritage at Hiscutt Park, Penguin. The event starts at 3pm and includes Dutch donuts, poffertjes, cheese tastings, a bicycle decorating competition, traditional Dutch games, music, and face painting.

Entry is free. The event is sponsored by De Bruyns Transport.

### Tunes in the Tulips | October 5
Join the celebration of live music, local flavours, and fun for all ages at the Table Cape Tulip Farm from 2pm to 5:30pm.

Enjoy delicious local produce, grab a drink from the bar, and groove to performances by KARAI and The Bad Dad Orchestra.

Tickets are available online.

### Illusionist Anthony Street Magic Show | October 6
Step into a world of wonder with Illusionist Anthony Street in a thrilling magic show crafted for all ages. Anthony, creator and star of the world-famous Celtic Illusion, will dazzle you with breathtaking illusions, mind-bending magic, and boundless charisma.

Experience traditional magic blended with modern spectacle for a heart-pounding and heartwarming show.

Tickets can be purchased via the Burnie Arts website.

### Claws on the Line Workshop | October 6-7
These school holidays, Burnie Arts hosts creative workshops with local artist Jen Sweeney, in partnership with the Bookend Trust. Designed for primary school-aged children, sessions will help develop drawing skills and teach about Tasmania’s Central North Burrowing Crayfish.

Kids can create artwork to enter the Claws on the Line art competition. Bookings are essential.

### Speedcubing Event | October 11
Calling all puzzle enthusiasts! Come to the Burnie Library for a speedcubing event from 10am to 12pm. Speedcubing is the sport of solving Rubik’s Cubes and twisty puzzles as quickly as possible using various solving methods and algorithms.

Spectators and learners alike are welcome to watch or participate.

### Nature Book Week Author Event | October 11
Join local author Alaynah Hensens at the Devonport Library at 11am for a reading of her new story, *The Whale and the Astronaut*, to celebrate Nature Book Week.

The free event includes a reading, Q&A, and printed photos and colouring-in pages created by Devonport artist Bee Naree. This beautifully illustrated book introduces children to local ecological issues.

### Death Cafe | October 12
The worldwide initiative, aimed at sparking conversations about death and encouraging reflection on life, comes to Penguin.

The secular gathering at the Reseed Centre runs from 10am to 12pm with unstructured conversations over tea, coffee, and cake. Entry is by donation. Registration is essential. Contact 0428 584 739 to reserve your spot.

### Wynyard Tulip Festival | October 11
Celebrate spring at the 33rd Wynyard Tulip Festival on Tasmania’s stunning North-West Coast. Special guests include Josh “Pezza” Perry (2024 MasterChef Runner-Up) and Hannah Moloney (ABC Gardening Australia Host).

Festival Highlights:
– Free shuttle bus to and from the Tulip Farm
– Helicopter rides over tulip fields and coast
– Thrill rides, food vans, local art and market stalls
– Live music from morning till night
– Fireworks finale at 9pm

Bring your family, friends, and camera for a full day of fun and festivities. For updates and program details, visit wynyardtulipfestival.com.

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For more information and ticket bookings, please visit the respective event websites or contact the listed organizers.
https://www.theadvocate.com.au/story/9077096/what-events-are-happening-on-the-north-west-coast-in-october/?src=rss

Renée Elise Goldsberry is ‘Satisfied’

Renée Elise Goldsberry is most well-known to the public as Angelica Schuyler from the hit musical *Hamilton*, but her career started long before that.

**“Satisfied,”** a new documentary from Melissa Haizlip and Chris Bolan, takes a close look at Goldsberry’s run on *Hamilton*—but more importantly, it explores what she sacrificed to dedicate herself to that award-winning performance. The film offers an honest portrayal of how a performer at the top of her career attempts to balance being a wife and mother while navigating a career-changing moment many dream of.

Haizlip and Bolan recently sat down with the *Tribune* to discuss their film and the evolving role of documentarians during these challenging times. The filmmakers shared what inspired them to make the documentary, with Bolan highlighting the canceled theatrical release of *Hamilton* as the catalyst.

“Renée moved away from the city and became close friends with a dear friend of mine, Kelli O’Hara—who is also a wonderful Broadway performer, Tony Award-winning actress, and executive producer (EP) on our project,” Bolan explained. “Renée told Kelli that she had a lot of behind-the-scenes footage from *Hamilton* and wished she had done something with it instead of just posting it all on Instagram. She wished she had made a documentary or met someone who knew how to create one.”

Kelli responded, “‘Well, it just so happens that I have a good friend who lives right over here who is a documentary filmmaker. Do you want to meet him?’ And [Renée] said, ‘Sure!’”

As a theater fan herself, Haizlip said she was excited to join the team for this Renée Goldsberry documentary. “I’m a huge musical theater fan; I’m a musical theater kid,” she shared. “I also grew up doing plays and musicals, and then I had a really long career on Broadway, performing myself in many shows. Now I’m producing shows on Broadway, and I love making documentaries as well. So the idea of bringing all these things together as a Black woman in theater, I was so excited to see her story being told this way.”

One of the major themes examined in *Satisfied* is how Goldsberry balances her career and family—a dilemma that many women in America face. As Goldsberry states in the film, “I’m the only cast member that’s also a mom.”

“The themes of our film—motherhood, balancing career and family—are just so universal,” Haizlip emphasized, “but the specificity of Renée and seeing the film through her eyes, that’s what really made a lot of difference for me.”

Both filmmakers, with impressive résumés, were also asked about the role of documentarians in today’s historical context. In many ways, they represent the last true truth-tellers.

“I try to use it to amplify underrepresented stories, particularly those focusing on Black culture and history,” Haizlip said. “I intentionally approach filmmaking to show the full breadth of Black expression and humanity; especially with this film, we tried to tell a more intimate story about her journey with motherhood and infertility.”

Bolan highlighted his previous film, *A Secret Love*, to explain his perspective on why documentarians are so important. “Creating a documentary requires dedication and teaches us the importance of perseverance. I try to build trust with my subjects by ensuring they are co-creators in the storytelling process,” he shared. “I work with them to ensure their story is told in an authentic and compelling way, and that’s what Melissa and I did with *Satisfied.*”

It is this type of attention to detail and care that makes *Satisfied* such a compelling film. It not only highlights Goldsberry’s incredible talents but also the sacrifices an artist of her caliber makes to bring us a lifetime full of memories.

*Satisfied* hits U.S. theaters for a special three-day theatrical event via Fathom Events through October 2.

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https://www.phillytrib.com/entertainment/movies/ren-e-elise-goldsberry-is-satisfied/article_37a840e2-7fdc-423b-848d-20ae9fdd8e38.html

Bad Bunny announced as Super Bowl LX halftime performer

LOS ANGELES – Bad Bunny will bring his Latin trap and reggaeton swagger to the NFL’s biggest stage next year. The Grammy winner has been announced as the headliner for the Apple Music Super Bowl halftime show in Northern California.

The NFL, Apple Music, and Roc Nation revealed on Sunday that Bad Bunny will lead the halftime festivities at Levi’s Stadium on February 8 in Santa Clara, California. The Puerto Rican superstar’s selection comes amid another career-defining run. He recently completed a historic residency in Puerto Rico that drew more than half a million fans and is currently the leading nominee at the Latin Grammys this November.

Bad Bunny has become one of the world’s most streamed artists with albums such as Un Verano Sin Ti, an all-Spanish-language LP that has reached global acclaim.

Speaking about the opportunity, Bad Bunny said in a statement, “What I’m feeling goes beyond myself. It’s for those who came before me and ran countless yards so I could come in and score a touchdown. This is for my people, my culture, and our history. Ve y dile a tu abuela, que seremos el HALFTIME SHOW DEL SUPER BOWL.”

Jay-Z, founder of Roc Nation, expressed his admiration for Bad Bunny’s achievements: “What Bad Bunny has done and continues to do for Puerto Rico is truly inspiring. We are honored to have him on the world’s biggest stage.”

Born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, the 31-year-old artist boasts three Grammy wins and 12 Latin Grammys. Beyond music, he has become a global ambassador for Latin culture, starring in films such as Bullet Train, Caught Stealing, and Happy Gilmore 2, while also collaborating with prominent fashion houses.

At the upcoming Latin Grammys, Bad Bunny leads the nominations with 12 nods, overtaking producer and songwriter Edgar Barrera.

The Super Bowl halftime show will be co-executive produced by Roc Nation and Emmy-winning producer Jesse Collins, with Hamish Hamilton serving as director.

Last year’s halftime show featured Kendrick Lamar and guest SZA in New Orleans, breaking records with 133.5 million viewers—the most-watched performance to date—surpassing even Michael Jackson’s iconic 1993 appearance.

https://abc7.com/post/bad-bunny-announced-super-bowl-lx-halftime-performer/17900968/

A month to go until Mamma Mia arrives – new pictures of the cast in action

The world’s sunniest and most exhilarating smash-hit musical is coming to Southampton for three weeks only, including half term, from October 24 to November 8.

Set on a Greek island paradise, this captivating story of love, friendship, and identity is cleverly told through the timeless songs of ABBA.

Sophie’s quest to discover the father she’s never known brings her mother face to face with three men from her distant romantic past on the eve of a wedding they’ll never forget.

This irresistibly funny show has been thrilling audiences all around the world and now it’s back for another Southampton stint. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic!
https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/25494163.new-images-show-mamma-mia-cast-arriving-southampton-soon/?ref=rss

Burberry’s Festival Beat

Daniel Lee, Chief Creative Officer of Burberry Group, used the Burberry Spring 2026 collection to connect music with fashion in clear, direct ways. The runway was set under a sky-patterned tent in Perks Field at Kensington Palace, creating a setting that felt like a festival backstage. The floor was covered in dirt, while guests laughed and moved like a crowd eagerly waiting for a headline act.

The clothes maintained British tailoring but offered a music lover’s wardrobe with polish for the stage and durability in the mud. The collection balanced heritage with hedonism, featuring utility pieces built for both performance and weather. Lee referenced decades of British music culture—from the Mod period to folk rock and the current indie revival—filtering these influences through Burberry’s practical design to give each reference a modern shape.

“Musicians have always had incredible style, and together with fashion, they form a really strong culture,” Lee explained. The clothes embodied this idea with cropped A-line coats in Pop-Art checks and tartans in vibrant apple green and acid yellow. Classic camel coats kept their traditional structure while allowing a swinging hem.

The front row added to the festival atmosphere. British cultural icon Twiggy (Dame Lesley Lawson) arrived ahead of a group of musicians, joking, “I want to get in before the boy band arrives.” Also present were Elton John, Vanessa Williams, Skepta, Central Cee, and Naomi Campbell. Anna Wintour attended alongside US tennis star Jack Draper. Benji B, one of the world’s most respected music curators, mixed Black Sabbath tracks into the soundtrack, underlining the connection between rock heritage and new audiences.

Shine and weather protection remained central themes throughout the collection. Sequinned mini kilts flashed Burberry checks in pink and green, while glossy bomber jackets and wet-look leathers reflected light. Trench-inspired pieces appeared in denim, raffia, and waterproof cotton, proving that Burberry still designs with the elements in mind. Crochet and chainmail dresses were paired with fringe and flat lace-up shoes, perfect for festival grounds.

Suits stayed slim and short in silhouette, often featuring a Canadian-denim twist. Other looks were accented with hot pink polish or brown coatings featuring 1960s edges. Accessories included oversized fringe bags, skinny crochet scarves, and belts with prominent buckles—each serving a practical purpose while adding visual impact.

Daniel Lee delivered a focused vision: rock and roll style works when adapted for a modern mindset. In this latest collection, heritage pieces met a festival mood, and England felt ready to swing again.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1346803-burberrys-festival-beat

Burberry’s Festival Beat

Daniel Lee, Chief Creative Officer of Burberry Group, used the Burberry Spring 2026 collection to connect music with fashion in clear, direct ways. The runway was set under a sky-patterned tent in Perks Field at Kensington Palace, creating a setting that felt like a festival backstage. The floor showed dirt while guests laughed and moved like a crowd waiting for a headline act.

The clothes maintained British tailoring while offering a music lover’s wardrobe polished enough for the stage and durable enough for the mud. The result was a balance of heritage with hedonism, featuring utility pieces built for both performance and weather. Lee referenced decades of British music culture—from the Mod period to folk rock and the current indie revival—filtering these influences through Burberry’s practical design to give each reference a modern shape.

“Musicians have always had incredible style, and together with fashion, they form a really strong culture,” Lee said. The clothes followed this idea, showcasing cropped A-line coats in Pop-Art checks and tartans in apple green and acid yellow. Classic camel coats retained their structure while allowing a swinging hem.

The front row added to the festival vibe. Twiggy (Dame Lesley Lawson), a British cultural icon, arrived ahead of a group of musicians. “I want to get in before the boy band arrives,” she said playfully. Elton John, Vanessa Williams, Skepta, Central Cee, and Naomi Campbell were also present. Anna Wintour attended alongside US tennis star Jack Draper.

Music curator Benji B, one of the world’s most respected in his field, mixed Black Sabbath into the soundtrack to highlight the connection between rock heritage and new audiences.

Shine and weather protection remained central themes throughout the collection. Sequinned mini kilts flashed Burberry checks in pink and green, while glossy bomber jackets and wet-look leathers reflected light. Trench-inspired pieces appeared in denim, raffia, and waterproof cotton, reminding guests that Burberry still designs for the elements.

Crochet and chainmail dresses came with fringe and flat lace-up shoes suitable for festival grounds. Suits stayed slim and short in silhouette, often with a Canadian denim twist. Others featured hot pink polish or brown coatings with 1960s edges.

Accessories included oversized fringe bags, skinny crochet scarves, and belts with prominent buckles. Each piece served a practical purpose while adding visual impact.

Daniel Lee delivered a focused concept: rock and roll style works when adapted for a modern mindset. In this latest collection, heritage pieces met a festival mood, and England felt ready to swing again.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1346803-burberrys-festival-beat

Nisha’s Mumbai: Of Patriotism, Parties, And Pioneering Design; Nisha JamVwal Gives A Glimpse Of Her Spectacular Week

When Music Becomes a Love Letter to the Nation

I cannot begin this column without giving due credit to national awardee lyricist Manoj Muntashir, the master storyteller who, in collaboration with composers Ajay-Atul and some exceedingly talented singers, presented the untold story of our Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a musical at NMACC titled *Mera Desh Pahle*. Little-known vignettes of his childhood and journey were given life through this emotional musical that had audiences shouting desh bhakti slogans.

The moment that stirred my soul was when the entire auditorium rose in spontaneous chants for our Prime Minister, voices merging in *Vande Mataram* and *Mera Bharat Mahan*. I had goosebumps as this opening night swept up in a wave of passionate pride. I wholeheartedly agree with CM Devendra Fadnavis that our Prime Minister has elevated us to such heights internationally that we feel this profound pride in being Indian.

We stand tall today thanks to one man’s extraordinary vision and relentless efforts, and this musical epitomizes his remarkable journey.

### Art of Turning Fifty in Feathers and Finery

Close on the heels of the larger-than-life Gautam Singhania extravaganza came another marquee celebration—grand, familial, and utterly enchanting. While the beautiful lady who had this special birthday will remain anonymous, I must share that one guest—the lovely Jaya Raheja in her show-stopping red feather gown—once again proved her artful penchant for avant-garde experimental excellence. Wow, did she steal the show!

The entire venue, which used to be a much-loved movie studio, was transformed into opulent banquet rooms, bars, and dining spaces to accommodate friends and family who flew in from across the globe, along with Mumbai’s glittering ‘set.’

Cars snaked their way in, filled with women trying to decode the mysterious theme. The glamour quotient was sky-high, and the band elevated the energy to euphoric levels. It was one of those evenings where celebration becomes an art form.

### When Design Dreams Take Flight

Ashiti Bhartia of the Elle Magazine group hosted the ID Design and Architecture show, and it outdid every design exposition I’ve attended this year. This sprawling showcase of India’s finest design brands was nothing short of spectacular.

It’s transformational how AI and technology have become a big part of design, making life more seamless for designers, architects, and house-proud shaukeen DIY clients who wish to design their homes on their own. The choices available today are simply magnificent.

The opening night drew architects and interior designers in droves, creating a buzzing hive of creative energy with music and bartenders juggling glasses and drinks. What struck me most was how the event transformed from a mere exhibition into a confluence of artistic minds—each corner revealing innovative concepts that push the boundaries of Indian design sensibilities.

It’s events like these that remind me why Mumbai remains the cultural pulse of our nation.

*Write to Nisha JamVwal at nishjamwal@gmail.com*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/lifestyle/nishas-mumbai-of-patriotism-parties-and-pioneering-design-nisha-jamvwal-gives-a-glimpse-of-her-spectacular-week