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LIFESTYLE

HELLO MUSICAL | AIN’T TOO PROUD

April 19, 2024 MissWidjaja

Hello Beautiful Souls,
Today, I am thrilled to share with you a musical experience that left me spellbound last summer. Accompanied by my mum, I had the pleasure of attending the captivating production of “Ain’t Too Proud” – a powerful tale narrated by Otis Williams about the iconic Motown group, The Temptations. From start to finish, this well-crafted musical took us on a journey through time, unravelling the fascinating origins of The Temptations and the extraordinary individuals who came together to create musical history.

As the curtains rose, we were transported back to the vibrant and soulful world of the 1960s. The stage came alive with electrifying performances, melodious harmonies, and breathtaking dance routines that perfectly captured the essence of The Temptations’ iconic sound. Each cast member portrayed their characters with such passion and authenticity that we felt as though we were witnessing the group’s actual rise to stardom.

What made “Ain’t Too Proud” truly special was the way it intertwined the personal stories of each member, allowing us to see the individuals behind the legendary band. Otis Williams played with incredible depth and emotion, narrated the journey from their humble beginnings to their meteoric rise to success. We got to know the struggles, the triumphs, and the bond that held the group together even through the toughest times.

Moreover, the musical celebrated the unsung heroes who contributed to The Temptations’ success. From the managers, songwriters, and record producers to the devoted fans, the musical paid tribute to the collective effort that shaped the destiny of these talented artists.

As the storyline unfolded, we found ourselves completely immersed in the riveting performances of classic hits like “My Girl,” “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” and many more. The dynamic choreography and soul-stirring vocals had us tapping our feet and singing along, filled with a nostalgic sense of joy and nostalgia.

The attention to detail in the set design and costumes further enhanced the authenticity of the production. It felt as though we were witnessing history in the making, reliving the glory days of Motown with a renewed appreciation for the legacy of The Temptations.

By the time the curtain fell on the final act, there was not a dry eye in the theatre. “Ain’t Too Proud” left an indelible mark on our hearts, reminding us of the power of perseverance, friendship, and the magic of music to bridge divides and touch souls.

If you are a fan of soulful music, captivating storytelling, and a journey through the era of Motown, “Ain’t Too Proud” is an absolute must-see. You will leave the theatre feeling uplifted, inspired, and with a newfound love for The Temptations’ timeless classics.

So, beautiful souls, the next time this musical graces a stage near you, don’t miss the chance to experience the magic of “Ain’t Too Proud” and pay homage to the legendary Motown artists who continue to inspire generations.

With harmonious regards,

#AintTooProud #MusicalExperience #TheTemptations #MotownMusic #SoulfulSounds #IconicHits #MusicLegends #BroadwayMagic #TheaterNights #SummerMusical #MotownMagic #SoulfulHarmonies #MusicalJourney #LivePerformances #LegendaryArtists #ClassicHits #MusicalTheatre #BroadwayInspired #TheaterEnthusiast #SummerEntertainment

LIFESTYLE

HELLO LONDON | PASQUAROSA @ ESTORICK COLLECTION OF MODERN ITALIAN ART

April 12, 2024 MissWidjaja

Hello Beautiful Souls, Let me take you on a journey through time and art, as I share my recent visit to the stunning exhibit, “Pasquarosa: From Muse to Painter,” at the Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art. Nestled in Islington, this hidden gem offers a glimpse into the life and works of Pasquarosa Marcelli, a remarkable artist whose legacy transcends decades.

Pasquarosa Marcelli, affectionately known as ‘Pasquarosa,’ graced London with her talent in the 1920s, marking one of the first solo exhibitions by an Italian artist in the city. Now, a century later, her masterpieces return to the capital in a stunning showcase featuring over 50 paintings and drawings, generously lent from Rome’s Archivio Nino e Pasquarosa Bertoletti and other private collections.

Her journey into the world of art began in Rome, where she moved as a young woman to pursue a career as a model for respected artists. It was there that she crossed paths with her husband and painter, Nino Bertoletti, whose exquisite portraits of Pasquarosa adorned the walls of galleries. Despite being largely self-taught, Pasquarosa’s works resonate with a profound depth, reminiscent of the vibrant brushstrokes of Van Gogh himself.

As I wandered through the two galleries dedicated to Pasquarosa and Nino’s works, I was struck by the sheer beauty and emotion captured in each piece. From enchanting still lifes adorned with flowers to poignant portraits that seemed to come alive on canvas, every stroke told a story of passion and creativity.

Although the museum may not be large, it offers a rich tapestry of Italian artistry, with free collections showcasing renowned artists and one of my favourites, Modigliani. After immersing myself in Pasquarosa’s world, I found comfort in wandering through the museum’s other offerings, each masterpiece a testament to the enduring legacy of Italian Modern art.

Before saying farewell to the Estorick Collection, take a stroll along Upper Street, where charming charity shops and quaint cafes await. It’s the perfect way to round off a day filled with art and inspiration.

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the magic of “Pasquarosa: From Muse to Painter” before it closes on April 28th, 2024. Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

#Pasquarosa #EstorickCollection #ItalianArt #ArtExhibit #Islington #Modigliani #ArtInspiration #LondonArtScene

LIFESTYLE

A MIRROR | PLAY AT TRAFALGAR THEATRE

April 5, 2024 MissWidjaja

Hello Beautiful Souls, For this week’s blog post, I had the pleasure of attending my first play of 2024 that truly surprised me to my core – “A Mirror.” Stepping into the theatre, I was immediately struck by the incredible cast, featuring talents like Jonny Lee Miller from “Transporter,” Samuel Adewunmi, whom I’ve admired in various Netflix movies, and Tanya Reynolds from “Sex Education.” Little did I know, I was about to venture on a journey unlike any other.

From the moment the “curtains” rose, it became apparent that “A Mirror” was not your typical play. It was a brilliantly crafted lie, a theatrical deception that left the audience questioning reality itself. Clocking in at a solid two hours without intermission, there was no opportunity to sneak away to the loo – a deliberate choice, as I later discovered, to fully immerse us in the experience.

The plot unfolded in a totalitarian state where artistic expression was tightly controlled by the Ministry of Culture. Against this backdrop, a rebel group dared to defy authority by staging an illegal play disguised as a wedding. What ensued was a darkly humorous political thriller where nothing was as it seemed. “A Mirror” masterfully navigated themes of love, truth, and rebellion in a society that prized neither.

Without giving away too much, I’ll simply say that the ending of “A Mirror” is nothing short of mind-blowing. It left me pondering the nature of truth and the power of art long after the final curtain fell.

For those intrigued by this tale of deception and defiance, “A Mirror” will continue its run at the Trafalgar Theatre until April 20th, 2024. Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.

#AMirrorPlay #TheatricalDeception #MindBlowing #TrafalgarTheatre #JonnyLeeMiller #SamuelAdewunmi #TanyaReynolds #RebelArt #PoliticalThriller #TheaterMagic #SearchForTruth #LoveInSociety #ArtisticExpression #ImmersiveExperience #MustSeeTheater #LondonTheatre #TheatricalJourney #QuestioningReality #CulturalRebellion #AestheticRevolution #PowerOfArtistry

FASHION, LIFESTYLE

HELLO FASHION | DIVA @ V&A

March 29, 2024 MissWidjaja

Hello Beautiful Souls, If you find yourself in London before April 10th, 2024, I encourage you to make your way to the V&A museum and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of the DIVA exhibit. Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.

Upon entering the exhibit, you’re handed your headset—an innovative touch that enhances the entire journey. As you stroll through the exhibit, your headset plays relevant snippets, enriching your understanding and appreciation of the showcased divas and their impact on culture and society.

The journey begins with a captivating exploration of the rise of the diva. Originating from the Italian word for goddesses or deities, the term evolved to describe exceptional female performers whose talents transcended societal norms. From the 14th century onwards, these extraordinary women graced the stage, captivating audiences with their exceptional skills. As you progress through this section, you’ll be serenaded by the voices of legendary opera singers, transporting you to a bygone era of dramatic performances and timeless melodies.

One pivotal moment in defining the diva occurred in the 19th century with the premiere of Bellini’s opera, Norma, in 1831. The supposed character, a high priestess reminiscent of the Roman goddess Diana, symbolized strength, beauty, and unwavering determination. Witnessing these portrayals firsthand is nothing short of breathtaking, offering a glimpse into the power and allure of these iconic figures.

As you venture further into the exhibit, you’ll encounter the modern-day divas and their iconic dresses. From Whitney Houston to Edith Piaf, Rihanna to Cher, Beyoncé to Tina Turner—the exhibit celebrates the diversity and talent of these extraordinary women. Believe me, there is a lot to see. With each garment, you’ll hear the echoes of their greatest hits, reminding you of their unforgettable impact on music and culture.

The DIVA exhibit is not just a showcase of fashion and talent; it’s a celebration of resilience, creativity, and empowerment. As you soak in the vibrant atmosphere and marvel at the exquisite costumes, you can’t help but feel inspired by the legacy of these trailblazing women.

In true V&A fashion, the exhibit is a masterful curation of history, artistry, and innovation. As you bid farewell to the DIVA exhibit, you’ll carry with you a renewed sense of admiration for the women who dared to defy conventions and carve their own paths.