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Archive for December, 2009

The brightest star of all

Wednesday, December 23rd, 2009

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This Christmas, the brightest star isn’t to be found in mangers, or on Christmas trees, but at the Comedy Theatre. Keira Knightley, arguably the most famous actress in Britain today, has chosen to make her stage debut in a new version of Molière’s The Misanthrope. Some of the critics had sharpened their knives, preparing themselves for an early Christmas turkey, but the truth is that she’s actually very good, if hardly stretched, in the role of a vain, backstabbing American film starlet, willing to do anything to further her career.

But the chief appeal of this new version of the play (in a witty translation by Martin Crimp) is the way that it allows its protagonist, the modish playwright Alceste (superbly embodied by a spiky, confrontational Damian Lewis) to rail against modern society in a compelling and witty way, whether it’s squaring up against the theatre critic Covington, who has delusions of being a playwright (a very funny Tim McMullan) or criticising the populist politician ‘with his flat, bland mask of pity’. Naming no names…

Thea Sharrock’s direction is pacy and inventive throughout, and this proves to be a clever and thoroughly modish way of keeping 17th century satire relevant for a new age and generation. If you can get tickets, this is well worth your while.

Comedy Theatre, Panton Street, W1. www.themisanthropelondon.com

Rustic luxury set to stay in London

Wednesday, December 23rd, 2009

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Everyone from Anya Hindmarch to Marmite (and even Quintessentially) has got involved in the UK’s current obsession with all things ‘pop up’. This autumn Daylesford Organic, the luxury and eco-friendly food and beauty retailer, followed this trend by opening – for one month only- the Bamford Body Concept Store in Knightsbridge.

Such was the success of the store that something a little less transient has now been established just down the road in South Kensington. The boutique which specializes in their eponymous bath and beauty range, also houses a number of treatment rooms where London based fans of the range can indulge in treatments previously only available at the Hay Barn spa at Daylesford HQ in Gloucestershire (pictured above). As ever, anything with the Bamford stamp of approval doesn’t come cheap, but with such green credentials and luxury service, a visit here may well be more practical than a trip out to the country.

www.bamford.co.uk
169 Draycott Ave
London, SW3 3AJ

Shoes and Champagne- a match made in heaven

Tuesday, December 22nd, 2009

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Following a string of successful collaborations with the likes of Barbie and Ladurée, it seems that Christian Louboutin has done it again; this time he has united with Champagne company Piper-Heidsieck to create a crystal stiletto champagne flute. Said to be inspired by the 19th century tradition which originated at the Bolshoi Ballet in Russia whereby gentlemen would declare their love for their chosen lady by toasting them by filling their shoe with Champagne, this package will surely make the ultimate romantic gesture.

The specially designed crystal shoe will make the perfect gift for the discerning fashionista, and of course has been designed to feature the iconic Louboutin red sole. Already labelled a classic in the world of designer collaborations, the red label of Piper-Heidsieck perfectly compliments the elegant shoe.

‘Le Rituel’ package consists of a bottle of Piper-Heidsieck Brut Champagne and the 14cm high stiletto glass heel. It is currently available worldwide major departments stores and is priced at USD 500.

www.le-rituel.com

Uncorrupted beauty in the British Virgin Islands.

Tuesday, December 22nd, 2009

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The British Virgin Islands (BVI’s as they are commonly known) consist of some of the most beautiful islands and beaches in the world; I was lucky enough to really get a taste for the place when I visited, staying in a number of stunning hotels.

Gin coloured waters and white sands make for the most idyllic beach holiday. You can be as relaxed or as active, as family or couple orientated as you wish. The snorkelling and sailing are brilliant and there is also plenty of flora and fauna; a wide range of different interests are catered for.

I managed to see and experience six stunning properties including; Little Dix Bay, Peter Island, Guana Island, Bitter End, Necker Island and Biras Creek. They were all so different, with each having their own qualities and intricate details that really made them very special. Some properties are more suitable for families, others better for couples and friends; there are places perfect for those looking for an action packed holiday, and others for someone looking for serious relaxation. All the places I visited offered an experience to remember and enjoy. We enjoyed staying in stunning bedrooms which were mere steps from white sandy beaches, watching turtles swimming under our balcony, beautiful sunset boat trips, indulging in delicious seafood and visiting spas perched on cliff tops. I could go on forever about the beauty that is second to none.

Nine times out of ten you will have to take a connecting flight to get to Tortola but this serves to add to the charm of the islands, to enhance to feeling of absolute seclusion and remoteness. You really feel that you are experiencing a place which few others have been lucky enough to visit.

Claridge’s Christmas Cheer

Monday, December 21st, 2009

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This year Claridge’s have taken their Christmas decorations to a whole new level, seriously raising the style bar through their reinvention of the traditional Christmas tree. For the first time in the Mayfair hotel’s 112 year history, a major fashion designer has been recruited to create an unusual masterpiece. At the beginning of December, John Galliano, the Creative Director of Dior, unveiled the tree which was inspired by festive snow scenes, but has been given a tropical twist.

Claridge’s traditionally becomes a social hotspot in the capital during December, and the tree is always a notable feature of the establishment. This year is certainly no exception, the white and frosty blue coloured tree, which dominates the Art Deco entrance hall, has been decorated with a hand crafted leopard, dragon flies and parrots. The tree will be up until 6th January and is well worth checking out if you’re looking for some slightly quirky Christmas cheer.

www.claridges.co.uk

Wherefore Art Thou, Romeo?

Monday, December 21st, 2009

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The much anticipated Juliet Supperclub opened relatively quietly on a far west stretch of 21st Street. The decor, in an original touch, has been designed to evoke the inside of a disco ball with the use of a small mirrored tile floor and mirrored adornments throughout. It is a hybrid lounge/restaurant with Mediterranean food from Todd English. My immediate supposition is that the food is subsidiary to the glitz and glamour, but it’s far better than it needs to be to draw the usual crowd that struts through clubs and lounges.

The menu has the typical sections of appetizers and entrees, but also the addition of sections that include varieties of shawarma (coming soon), kebabs, and different types of hummus. It goes without saying that I had to dip into all these areas. Beet salad was good but average, and hummus was fresh but no better than a falafel place in the village. The highlights of the meal were the scallops with a leek type pancake and the branzino.

It wasn’t all perfect; my Mahi kebab never made it to the table, and it featured one of my biggest pet peeves, when a waiter insists on committing your order to memory and then forgets something. Swallow your pride and write it down! Overall, I think that Juliet seems likely to be another strong player in this area.

Juliet – 539 West 21st Street