THEGAYUK

Author: Professor Ball

  • COMMENT | Why Aren’t We Up In Arms

    Apathy, n 1. Lack of interest or concern, especially regarding matters of general importance or appeal; indifference. 2. Lack of emotion or feeling; impassiveness.

    Is this you? I think this is me. And to be honest I am not apologetic of the fact. To me, apathy towards being gay means that some kind of social inclusion has been reached, which is a very proud place to be. As a whole, yes, I believe that we are part of a society where one has a choice of freedom. But for many, this still isn’t the case.

    From my point of view, I have grown up in a semi-accepting society – growing up through a battle of continual torment and agonising pain like many gay teens. It was only really at university where I started to feel part of a new and welcoming society; an openness I promised myself I would never forget. The sad fact is, I have forgotten, and I am sure that goes for many of us who have reached a point of inclusion. But that pain and exclusion is still happening for others, all over the world. Is it our duty to bring these individuals to some kind of salvation? How is best to deal with these issues?

    I have never felt a need to protest or write to my MP over gay issues, as to be honest, I don’t have any gay issues. I am not protesting about gay marriage, as I am not religious and don’t feel the need to get involved in such a debate, even though there are obvious gay issues attached. Do I think gay people should be able to get married, yes I do. However, I do understand why the more literal belief groups unwelcome this change. Some religious branches are more organic and adapt to the community they serve a purpose to, some are not.

    The only point where I would feel the need to defend my situation is when I am confronted. Even then I find it difficult, as their ignorance is outweighed by the fact that I feel sorry for their hatred. Cue line from the new US sitcom The New Normal ‘thank you for your intolerance and your bigotry, and for fostering this ignorance in another generation…and for bringing back the fanny pack!’

    On a more serious note, one can’t help but think of the heroic Harvey Milk, the first openly-gay person to be elected to public office in California during the 70s. ‘He imagined a righteous world inside his head and then he set about to create it for real, for all of us’. This was at a time where there was major inequalities but he saw the slightest glimpse of hope for the gay community and took that opportunity with courage and conviction. But can the same be said for the gay community today? Do we get involved in live protests or continually strive to make a political point? More so, is there a need to?

    I think it is our duty to our fellow community, to help inform and guide others who do not understand the importance of equality. Perhaps we need to be reminded of the importance of equality ourselves in our day to day lives. But to what extreme do we do this successfully? On a protest level, or more of a quieter defiance? Personally, I see it more of a learned understanding which informs a new generation rather than a battle where hatred is thrown into the equation. It is not so much a gay issue, rather its an issue of what is righteous.

    I have become immensely proud of the pride festivals all over the country every year; is one day enough? That one day of pride, serves as a reminder of how much we have gone through as a community. In fact, today I think it may be fair to say, that in the UK, many communities see the gay community as simply part of an rich and diverse open society, which means it has become the norm in many circumstance. This in my opinion is exactly the way it should be. Of course, there are going to be circumstances we as a community have to battle against, such as gay marriage, but only if you feel need for the cause. Not just because it is a gay issue. So maybe it is ok to remain apathetic. I guess what I am trying to say is that we should not forget the battle we have gone through, as individuals and as a community, and where we stand today. I can’t help but think that in twenty years it will seem bizarre that something like gay marriage was ever even an issue.

    Opinions expressed in this article may not reflect those of THEGAYUK, its management or editorial teams. If you’d like to comment or write a comment, opinion or blog piece, please click here.

  • COMMENT | Honour Each Day

    An optimistic approach to the challenging times ahead.

    January is always a good month for evaluating; embracing the possibilities of what is to come. Usually, I write a list of achievements from the previous year, and think about what I would like to achieve in the year ahead.

    2012 was a good year for the most part. For the UK it saw a whole multitude of events which made me feel extremely proud to be British. But on a personal level, I graduated from Architecture, my second degree, putting the 100-hour working weeks behind me. Unfortunately, the latter half of 2012 has been much of a drag, which has come as an anti-climax. Endlessly applying for architecture jobs, 400 in total, and being told I have little experience to be employed in an entry-level position is beyond bizarre. Indeed a period of unemployment really makes one feel worthless. Alas, the challenging search continues.

    In all honesty, it could have been a tougher time if it hadn’t been for a bucket load of optimism, and a continual list of goals; making this period slightly more tolerable. So in 2013, I have said goodbye to any hint of pessimism and embraced the challenging times ahead.

    Much like Chris Jones’ article on ‘Money Worries‘, I have been exploring a range of online shops to promote and sell a new range of artwork and prints. Although it will be a long road ahead, breaking the end goal down into manageable chunks makes things seem a little clearer; a kind of financial plan for a creative business. Thankfully I have secured a couple of exhibitions in Leeds during February, and the selling of work is increasing slowly. All in good time.

    The lowest point of the year so far has been declining an interview for a phenomenal architecture practice in Switzerland, as the cost of travelling over was too high to justify. Nevertheless, I am a big believer that every choice has its benefits, so by not going, a new set of options will inevitably open.

    So a piece of advice for those are finding their current employment situation challenging, follow your instinct and honour each day.

     

    Opinions expressed in this article may not reflect those of THEGAYUK, its management or editorial teams. If you’d like to comment or write a comment, opinion or blog piece, please click here.

  • FILM REVIEW | Les Miserables

    ★ | Les Misérables, a story of crime, broken dreams and valiance. Set in the French Revolution it explores a story of Jean- Valjean, a so called criminal who breaks his parole to start a new life of truth and compassion.

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  • COMMENT: The X-Factory

    This weekend’s shock departure of Ella Henderson from the X-Factor competition has created outrage only a few weeks before the final show.

    The bottom two acts had to perform again for the judges to decide who would leave the competition. Ella blasted out ‘If You’re Not The One’ by Daniel Beddingfield, followed by James Arthur’s powerful rendition of Alicia Keys’ ‘Falling’. With the final result going to deadlock, it was Ella who received the least amounts of votes and left the competition.

    This year there is a clear star, James Arthur, who is a ready-made artist. In some respects, it would have done him a favour to have left the competition this weekend – so that he is able to release a worthy album without the X Factor tagline.

    X Factor is in its ninth year, and is in desperate need of a revamp. However, my real complaint is about the longevity of the acts. There have been a handful of successful acts, Leona Lewis, JLS, One Direction, but what about real music apart from this repetitive commercial factory? Not to mention the irrelevance of Louis Walsh; what is he still doing there?

    There are two acts in my eyes this year who have the ability to really make a difference in the music industry on a global scale. Jahmene and James, with James leading the way. He is a true artist, refreshingly original and it is a relief to see how much credit he is receiving. The real success is how he has been able to retain his integrity without selling out in this X Factor factory.

    Let’s get away from being caught up in someone’s sob story, and focus on true talent.

     

    Opinions expressed in this article may not reflect those of THEGAYUK, its management or editorial teams. If you’d like to comment or write a comment, opinion or blog piece, please click here.

  • COLUMN: The Joy Of Melancholy

    As The GayUK is looking at mental health this month, I felt it was important to focus on wellbeing, and what one can consciously do to help appreciate everyday surroundings.

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  • COMMENT: Strictly Farcical

    COMMENT: Strictly Farcical

    Strictly Come Dancing is back for its tenth season on BBC, but why is it proving to be such an entertainment ‘disaster, darling’?

    Beginning in 2004, this series came back to life with a blast, relaunching the original 1949 ‘Come Dancing’ version; one of television’s longest running shows. Since then, each year has managed to provide a celebrity spectacular, wowing its TV audiences.

    The series reignited its education of Latin and Ballroom dancing by utilising celebrities to attract a new, perhaps youthful, audience. But it is my concern that the original philosophy of the show has been compromised too much by a distasteful ‘theme week’ entertainment; a superfluous addition to the shows integrity. This can be highlighted by this weekend’s ‘Halloween’ show. Dani and Vincent dancing to Scooby-Doo, Victorian and Brendan dressed in some ridiculous living-dead outfits, and Denise and partner James evoking circus freaks? This has gone too far. The show should not be about creating some tacky pantomime, instead, it should be about dancing, which the show is failing to address significantly. A similar kind of cheap entertainment can be seen on ITV’s X Factor, which questions the originality and longevity of its acts.

    As a kid, I used to Latin and Ballroom dance every week. Being from Blackpool it seemed apt, with the Tower Ballroom only a stone’s throw away. The magnificence of this ballroom has a magical quality to it, encrusted in its decorative golden surfaces, and the twinkling chandeliers; like a musical box where charm is brought back to life. It is a rare jewel steeped in history and narrative. Over the past couple of weeks, I have taken regular visits to sit and watch the glamour and romance that space offers. There is a sense of naughtiness through expressions of the elderly dancers who come to reminisce whilst eating their cream teas. Here the entertainment, or theatre, comes alive through dance, and not absurd costumes or farcical routines.

    But even this World famous Tower Ballroom, which used to host the season’s final, is no longer the case. The show’s bosses have decided not to screen this year’s finale at the centre of dance splendour. While the Strictly bosses keep a tight grasp on BBC budgets, this puts into question other flops for the BBC, such as the £22 million spent to secure The Voice.

    Strictly has had its fair share of controversies throughout its history of the show. A major public outrage of disappointment came in 2009 when judge Arlene Phillips, a highly respected choreographer, was axed from the show. It was at this point in the shows history a definite sign of change was coming; change not for the better. With this in mind, it is understandable that the BBC has provoked strong criticism from its loyal viewers. Shows bosses have a duty to their audience, and it is my feeling that this is being sacrificed. Why can’t they see that a shows entertainment will come from quality, and not a ridiculous pantomime?

    As an advocate of both quality and integrity, I urge the bosses at BBC to reconsider the fundamental philosophy of this show. If you want to maintain the credibility of longevity and success, then you need to urgently re-address the formula of the show. Step to it, quick quick slow.

    Opinions expressed in this article may not reflect those of THEGAYUK, its management or editorial teams. If you’d like to comment or write a comment, opinion or blog piece, please click here.

     

  • THEATRE REVIEW | 9 To 5, The Musical

    A vivacious musical comedy with heart at its core, it is a story of courage, conviction and empowerment; with an exemplar cast to tell its story, 9 to 5 is the must see musical of the year.

    The Dolly Parton musical comes alive from the very opening, with its quick-witted phrases, punchy tunes, and an abundance of comic repartee. It has all the ingredients for a great musical, plus that bit extra. Indeed it is as if the theatre has embodied Dolly’s very being, with her character and personality ingrained into every scene and voluminous hairstyle. Certainly, for the older viewers, there will be notions of heartwarming nostalgia.

    But the musical is not just a throwaway comedy, it has real substance and a universal relevance which is paramount in today’s society of equals.

    As working 9-5 will be familiar to many of us, it manages to put into perspective the motivations for leading a happy and fulfilling work life. Although the story is only 30 odd years old, it is clear to see how far women have come in the work place, and rightly so. Franklin J Hart, superbly played by Ben Richards, is the sexist bigoted boss, who manages to get many of his female employees playing into his hands. (though who would dispute such a good looking boss?). However it is difficult to single out the star in this superb cast; it is an exemplary cast at that, with each delivering their own individuality whilst remaining a solid unit. Every credit to them all.

    The clear narration from Dolly Parton on screen introduces each of the characters in turn before the story unfolds, with the famous ‘Working 9-5’ tune pulsating thought the toe-tapping audience. It was refreshing to be part of an audience who wholeheartedly supported the cast rather than the reserved clapping often witnessed in UK theatres; a testament to the show perhaps.
    In Act 1, energy and facetiousness is delivered in abundance. This includes the magnificent character, Roz, that Bonnie Langford brought to the show. A clear highlight has to be her infatuated fantasy tango number with boss Franklin (Ben Richards), leaving the audience in stitches long after the moment passed. Both Ben and Bonnie brought their expertise to the stage and delivered it with refreshing boldness.

    The show reached a pivotal moment in the second half by Judy’s (Natalie Casey) breathtaking performance, ‘Get out and Stay Out’. Her comic genius was left to one side during this solo, showing a sensitivity and pain that overpowered the theatre.
    It is difficult to fault the high-quality performances. The only let down is the weak graphic used to promote the show.
    The smooth running show grips the audience from start to finish, leaving you wanting more, surpassing my expectation. To be honest, the thought of the show didn’t initially grab my attention, but I urge all of you to go out right away and purchase your tickets for a musical that will leave you overflowing with exhilaration.
    All in all, it reawakened my love for musical theatre. This musical deservedly proves why there should be a resurgence back to the theatre.

    The show is touring the country so check out your nearest show at

  • FILM REVIEW: Undertow

    A movie set within the everyday of a small Peruvian village by the sea, Undertow will draw on the pain of its viewer.

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  • A Man Made Home By The Man Who Made Homes Grand

    Kevin McCloud has carved a reputation for being a critical voice in architecture, famously describing a potential failure of a grand design only to climax by revealing the magnificence of the final scheme.

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  • OPINION | A Cautionary Tale Of The Unpaid Graduate

    With graduation out of the way, one has to embrace the step into the ‘big wide world’ (even though I detest the patronising tone of that phrase).

    Understandably jobs are difficult to come by, with the back log of graduates who have come out of education in a time of global financial troubles. But the point of this entry is not to radiate this negativity we often hear in our day to day lives. Rather it is an honest attempt to share my own experience; a cautionary tale of the unpaid internship; is it justified?

    Personally, I have been there before, graduating in 2008 from a Fine Art degree. I spent 6 months in London, unpaid, financing myself from savings. Days involved jumping from one position to the next, going application crazy hoping to secure some money. The 3 month internship at Aicon Gallery was experience, but in hindsight was it worthwhile experience?

    Being given a set of keys to a Regents Street gallery within the first week of the job seemed an honour at the time. Opening up the gallery early before the paid directors arrived, and staying until they decided to go home. Some days consisted of sitting behind the desk answering phones and filing, contrary to the original position of ‘Exhibition Intern’ suggested. Full days without a break. Imagine the ‘Devil Wears Prada’ heart pounding feeling of fear. Fear of doing something wrong or out of place in this pristine white gallery (which was probably the best thing about the job, as it was designed by Caruso St John).

    On some occasions I remember eating my lunch which consisted of a spoonful of cottage cheese, with a tomato and half a pepper, as I couldn’t afford to buy food. But it was ok, I was working in an ‘art gallery’ – or so I kept telling myself.

    The lowest point was when I did get something wrong, and sent some parcels by courier rather than by post. I was the only extra worker that day, having to man the phone and gallery at all times. The directors were in an ‘all day meeting, not to be contacted’, and at some point I was supposed to have magically doubled myself, and popped off to the post office while staying in charge of the gallery. From that day onwards, one particular individual make it her mission to make my life hell, finding fault in everything I did. But still, I carried on as a nervous, under fed, unpaid graduate. Not exactly the experience I was hoping to get.

    I would certainly be reluctant to jump at the chance of unpaid work again. And I disagree that all experience is good experience.

    A point came last year when I needed a reference. I asked the gallery for one, surely the least they could have done for someone who worked incredibly hard for them without pay. ‘The reply was, just write one yourself and I will sign it’.

    It strikes me that being able to say you have work experience under your belt to a potential employer can hide the substance of what was actually learnt during that placement. This is the difficulty I am having again, this time as an Architecture graduate. I have no experience in an architects practice, as I had to seek paid work during my summers to afford to continue studying. And surely the point of the Part 1 placement year is to gain experience, and not to be declined because of the lack of.

    I take my stance a little more cautious this time, seeking paid work only. Over the past month I have been offered two more internships, one in Denmark, and the other in Paris. The Paris internship offered 419 euro per month, barely enough to cover rent. The fact is, I would not be able to support myself financially whilst undertaking such a position. Both positions were declined, with a hint of satisfaction.

    Surely it says something about the ethics of a firm who offer unpaid work in the first place. It is making a disgrace out of the profession. This is not ok.

    But what is one to do when there is little option of work, either succumb to the fact of gaining some kind of experience for no money, or stick it out for the foreseeable future in hope of a paid position?

    I do not believe internships to be justified for a lengthy period. It takes advantage of skilled graduates or individuals who are determined to make a career for themselves. We have the ability to learn, and learn fast. Being thrown in at the deep end and having to learn the ropes is indeed a valuable suggestion. I am often alarmed when looking at architecture internships, the stipulations the companies require. For example, proficiency in a lengthy variety of packages, the ability to speak fluent Japanese, 3 years experience in housing, etc. I am also appalled at individuals who wouldn’t stop and question their cost of their free labour. By accepting an unpaid placement makes a suggestion that you agree working for free is acceptable, with someone else benefitting from your efforts. With the expectations of what an intern can do increasing, this means that companies now have a choice of highly skilled candidates to chose from.

    So what can be done about this? I am an avid fan of ‘Don’t just complain, do something about it’. There is a UK government petition,

    http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/14143

     

    that I would ask you all to sign and be a part of. Let’s help to make this wrong doing illegal, so that everyone benefits in the future.

     

    Opinions expressed in this article may not reflect those of THEGAYUK, it’s management or editorial teams. If you’d like to comment or write a comment, opinion or blog piece, please click here.