The Founder November 2019

The Founder

VOL. XI, ISSUE III | NOVEMBER 2019 |

@RHULFOUNDER

It’s Disability History Month!

An interview with RHSU’s Chair of the Disabled Collective AMY GERVASIO

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ith October being declared the National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) in America, and the UK celebrating Disability History Month from the 22nd November to 22nd December, I’ve spoken with an influential member of the disabled community at Royal Holloway to gain an insight on living with a disability, particularly as a University Student.

Sammy Miller is a current third year English student and holds the position of chair of the Disabled Collective at Royal Holloway after being elected last month. She has a genetic condition which

causes reduced mobility, joint dislocations and chronic pain and she is part of the

10% of the Royal Holloway population who have a disability. 10% equates to 1000 RHUL students who are classed as disabled. This can range from physical disabilities including needing access to wheelchair or vision-impairment to mental disabilities. For Sammy, much of the difficulty of her disability comes with the unpredictability of each day. The arbitrary nature of Sammy’s disability means that whilst some days she is able to do all she needs and more, others she can wake up in agony, barely able to walk without the aid of her walking stick. Having to

Index News..................................................................................1 Opinion And Debate..........................................................6 Features..............................................................................8 Lifestyle............................................................................10 Arts: Arts And Culture......................................................13 Arts: Literary Reviews......................................................17 Arts: Film..........................................................................21 Arts: Music........................................................................23 Sports.................................................................................26

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spend extra time at hospitals and medical appointments for testing due to the rarity of the condition is a further strain and time restriction on

her life as a student.

I asked her honestly about her particular experience being disabled at Royal Holloway. ‘My experience as

a disabled student at RHUL has been incredibly mixed’ she told me. She continued the ‘disabled students allowance have been incredible...

Continued on p. 6

General elections p. 5 Winter skin care p. 11 Michael Bublé p.23

2 NEWS

THE FOUNDER November 2019

No Platform for Hate Speech on Campus Policy Passed The Founder’s Stylebook 2017-2018

We are The Founder, the Founder Staff. We don’t italicize our name.

Style Format General

from entering Students’ Union premises and speaking at Stuprograms, songs, and reference works (dictionaries, dents’ Union events, including ollowing weeks ofmovies, Over-but NOT encyclopedias, etc.) or newspaper orthat magazine titles. Put single of student groups, or activheard drama, Royal Holquotation marks around video gamesities but notin computer programs suchThe defiany capacity. loway SU held a referendum as Microsoft Word. on whether or not to imple- nition that has been adopted, as ment a no platforming poli- per the policy, is below: capitalization Capitalize all principal words, including prepositions and ‘An expression of hatred cy. In total, out of 1018 eliconjunctions longer than four letters; capitalize articles and words gible votes – 554 (54.42%) toward someone on account of shorter than four letters if it is the first or last word in a title. voted for the policy and 464 that person's colour, race, dis(45.58%) voted against the ability, nationality (including numerals ethnic or national motion.In This that the onecitizenship), general,meant write out the numbers through nine; use figures for the belief, sex, rest. However, write out any number origin, that occurs atreligious the beginning of a policy has passed.

The next sentence rewrite the sentence. One exception: you can start gender identity, or sexual oriensteps will be or the production sentences with a figure if it’s a calendar year. Some case tation.

Thespecial expression should of an internal management numerals: be threatening or abusive, and process that will lay out the steps for implementing this is intended to harass, alarm, or policy – this will be done in distress another individual or collaboration with elected community of individuals’.

These actions were takstudent representatives on en after the Students’ Union the SSO Executive. composition titles DOMINIC TAYLOR

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Put single quotation marks around books (except the Bible), TV

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The passing of this policy means that the Union will be taking forward the mandated actions under ‘the Union resolves’. Therefore, any individual with a sustained history of making statements that can reasonably be interpreted as hate speech will be prevented

blocked media personality, columnist and internet troll Katie Hopkins from attending a talk planned by the Debating Society for ‘security reasons’.

This claim was contested by many across campus and kicked off a wave of memes, discussion and name-calling about whether a speaker, like

Hopkins, should be allowed to talk on campus in the first place. As noise continued to grow over the incident, the Students Union decided to hold a referendum so students could decide for themselves what the policy should be. This, in a sense, should be commended as they have not imposed their own opinions on the incident. However, as contemporary British politics illustrates, referendums do not always lead to harmony once a decision has been made by a majority.

Royal Holloway is not alone in holding a NoPlatforming Referendum in 2019. In April, Oxford Union held a similar referendum. The Union said in a post: ‘Oxford Union has often found itself at the centre of a cultural conflict between those who defend no platforming and those who support free speech as an inalienable right. Should educational institutions prioritise the concerns of minority groups over free speech? And, more broadly, should free speech be upheld as an inherent right or are there some cases where it can, and should, be restricted?”

More emphatically than at Royal Holloway, 82% of votes opposed the no- platforming policy with just under 18% in favour. The Daily Express reported: ‘In this age of snowflakes, offencetaking and twitterstorms a large turnout of our brightest and best students defied the current trend and voted overwhelmingly for the freedom to express controversial views’.

The Founder Board 2019 - 2020 Editor in Chief Svilena Iotkovska editor@thefounder.co.uk

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Publishing & Creative Designer Kaja Matusik designer@thefounder.co.uk

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Features Editor Melissa Nock

Arts Editor Niamh Smith

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Opinon and Debate Editor Niamh Houston

Literary Review Editor Sophie Deaville

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Lifestyle Editor Antonia Aluko

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The Founder is the independent student newspaper of Royal Holloway, University of London. This means we are not affiliated to the student union or the college. We pride ourselves on our investigative journalism and aim to keep our readers up to date with news on and off campus. The views expressed in this publication are those of the author and not necessarily those of the Editor, particularly of opinion and debate pieces. Every effort has been made to contact the holders of copyright for any material used in this issue, and to ensure the accuracy of its stories.

To book ad space in The Founder, contact our managing editor at managingeditor@thefounder.co.uk.

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NEWS 3

THE FOUNDER November 2019

Extinction Rebellion – One Month On…

analysis commissioned

by CHN found more than 20,000 articles written about XR in October, a massive increase from the 5,889 in April. This has resulted in the number of estimated people being reached as three times larger.

So, what has happened since last month? The movement have continued to rebel with followup protests. There were

demonstrations at Horse Hill, near Gatwick Airport, on 26 October. This was following the decision taken by Surrey County Council to approve four new oil wells at the location (bringing the total to six) - and commercial oil production for more than 20 years.

A few days later, on 9 November, there was a nationwide action against Barclays bank which provides huge loans to the fossil fuel

industry. XR claim that the banks are following a ‘profit-before-planet’ policy.

The financial sector is one of their primary targets who are seen as contributing to a perpetual process by funding those who are most responsible for carbon emissions. XR demand that the banks tell the truth and declare a climate emergency themselves while also telling customers to reconsider who they bank with.

In addition, on the 6th of October, High Court judges ruled the ban on Extinction Rebellion protestors in London as unlawful – this was seen as a boost for the group.

Previously, the Metropolitan Police had imposed the ban under the Public Order Act; however, the judges have ruled that this was not within their power.

Next year will no doubt see an increase in the activities of this movement with more major rebellions on the horizon across the globe until what they think is sufficient action being taken to combat the climate crisis.

Extinction Rebellion are here to stay.

For those who are not sure on what a ‘sectarian government’ means, Lebanon’s law requires most of Lebanon’s 18 recognised religious sects to share powers in government, making the political system extremely complicated.

Protesters suggest that the system is a major cause for the disfunction in the government as its mechanisms establish political divisions and make cooperating amongst religious lines very difficult.

The fact that Lebanon had

its first general election in nine years is a clear indicator of the disfunctionality.

What’s more, cabinet decisions must be supported with a 2/3 super-majority, meaning that the leaders must put their sectarian differences aside to permit progress.

However, it is clear that this does not always happen, especially with the lack of decisions on basic issues such as the water and electricity shortage, as well as the excessive garbage build up.

With youth unemployment at 37 percent – and increasing

inequalities – it is no surprise that thousands are protesting in the streets since they ultimately have no choice but to. A study by World Inequality Database revealed that the top 10 percent of Lebanese income earners possess 57 percent of the total income earned in 2014, while the bottom 50 percentage accounted for just 11 percent.

As violence escalates, the United Nations urge the Lebanese government to haste with their plans to meet the requests of the people.

JORDAN FARRELL

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s we edge toward Christmas and deadlines loom large as well as a General Election, it is easy to forget the climate protests that occurred in our capital at the beginning of last month. Extinction Rebellion undertook their autumn rebellion for two weeks in October protesting for more action to be taken on the climate emergency. What has happened so far this year and what is next for the movement?

Back in April, Extinction Rebellion organised demonstrations in London focusing on areas such as Oxford Circus, Marble Arch, Waterloo Bridge and Parliament Square. Their pressure seemed to pay off with the government declaring a climate emergency soon after although they are not obligated to act upon it.

Councils across the UK had already declared their own climate emergency, stating they aimed to be carbon neutral by 2030. Bear in mind, our government’s current target is to reduce carbon emissions by 80%, compared

Image source: timeout.com

to 1990 levels, by 2050. Last month, the demonstrations occurred on a much larger scale in what was called an International Rebellion for two weeks in more than 60 cities worldwide.

The figures post-rebellion would suggest that the movement is growing in addition to drawing more media attention. The number of arrests increased from 1,100 in April to 1,828 in October. Moreover, media

Crisis in Lebanon

REBECCA THOMPSON

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he current protests in Lebanon began in Beirut on the 17th of October and have since spread throughout the country. It is claimed that the protests were sparked by an increase in taxes on gasoline, tobacco, and phone calls made through WhatsApp – which have since been discarded.

However, this was simply just the last straw for many as the lack of attention towards the economic crisis, alongside the history of political

secularism and corruption, had been oppressing those living in Lebanon for far too long.

Since the removal of the raised taxes, and the resignation of Prime Minister Saad Hariri, the protests have continued. Protestors are demanding for a change in the country’s post-civil war political system, which has entrenched and enriched a small circle of elites. A new electoral law, earlier elections and a removal of the sectarian regime is called for.

4 NEWS

THE FOUNDER November 2019

Spain’s Fourth Election in Four Years Fails to Break the Deadlock HARRY LEGG

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pain’s fourth election in four years ended disappointingly for Pedro Sánchez’s Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE).

The November 10 election yielded 120 seats, 3 less than the party’s total in the previous election. Given that the most recent election had been called to rectify this problem, the election was a bad night for the PSOE. Forced into coalition with the other left-wing party Unidas Podemos, Sanchez’s government still falls short of

the 176 seats required for a majority. Only an abstention by the Catalan Republican Left (ERC) party and some support from other parties will see them successfully form a government. On the other side of the political aisle, the PSOE’s main rival the Popular Party won 88 seats, up by 22 from the April poll. The right-wing populist Vox party is the success story of the election, more than doubling its previous 24 seats, winning 52 this time round. In stark contrast, the Citizens Centrist party dropped from

57 seats to only 10 this month.

The deal between the PSOE and Podemos had been long desired by the latter’s leader Pablo Iglesias. Having previously been worried about the increased support a new election would elicit for the right, Iglesias embraced Sanchez on camera following the signing of the deal uniting the two parties in government.

Nevertheless, his fears of the election seeing increased support for the right had been realised, accompanied by a worrying collapse of the centre and slight losses for the left. Sanchez’s attempt to

find a peaceful solution to the Catalan crisis will be hindered

by Vox’s surge. The increase in Vox’s support comes from criticism from the right over what was perceived as feeble leadership in the face of a threat to Spanish unity. The PSOE, though, have ruled out an independence referendum.

The People’s Party had wanted to apply Article 155 of the Constitution to suspend Catalan autonomy for enough time to enforce order in the region.

On more general matters, the PSOE ran on a platform of reducing

social inequality, involving practical measures such as increasing the minimum wage and increasing taxes on big business. Their main opposition, the People’s Party, wanted to set limits for personal and corporate tax as well as supporting mothers, eliminate specific taxes on tourism and make the labour market more malleable. Vox ran on an anti-immigration platform merged with major cuts in public spending and the banning of political parties that intend to destroy Spain’s territorial integrity.

NEWS 5

THE FOUNDER November 2019

Britain Gears up for December Election JAMES NEAL

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he UK’s major parties are gearing up for what promises to be one of the most volatile and impactful general elections in decades. The election comes after months of parliamentary gridlock, as successive conservative prime ministers have seen their parliamentary majority whittled away after failing to pass several aborted withdrawal agreements.

Brexit will likely take centre stage at this election, with the Conservatives promising to ‘get Brexit done’ by establishing a new majority and passing Boris Johnson’s previously agreed withdrawal agreement.

Image source: Flickr

Labour on the other hand has promised to renegotiate a new withdrawal deal with the European Union and then to hold a second referendum, likely between remaining in the EU or leaving on these renegotiated terms.

Conversely, the Liberal Democrats have promised to stop Brexit, revoking article 50 if they are to form a majority government.

Muddying the waters even more is Farage’s new ‘Brexit Party’, who look set to take votes from both Labour and Conservative, having entered into an electoral pact to stand down candidates in all Conservative held seats.

They promise to campaign to leave the EU without a deal, if a free trade agreement

Image source: Sky News

cannot be made, and to move towards WTO trading rules.

Brexit however is not the sole issue of the campaign.

Indeed, the NHS looks set, yet again, to take centre stage with a recent report by NHS England suggesting that hospitals are ‘imploding’.

This is as wait times reach worst-ever levels, with 4.42 million patients on the waiting list and 84.8% of them waiting under 18 weeks – below the 92% target.

Jonathan Ashworth, Labour’s shadow health secretary has planned to increase the health budget by 3.9% a year and has said that under a Tory government, the NHS was heading for a ‘winter of abject misery’. Health

Secretary Matt Hancock, who promises to increase the budget by 3.4% a year above inflation until 2023, has responded arguing that a Labour government would ‘cripple’ the health service.

Concerns about knife crime and the education system also look to be major issues, with all major parties committing to expensive spending increases to address these issues; consequently, the Conservatives are promising 20,000 more police officers and £7.1bn a year more for schools in England by 2022-23. Labour have promised £150bn for schools, hospitals and

housing and to scrap tuition fees. The Liberal Democrats have also promised extensive investment in schools.

Climate change also looks to be of increasingly high valence amongst the electorate, with the Labour party promising £250bn of investment to instigate a "green industrial revolution" and the Liberal Democrats promising to tackle climate change by reaching 80% renewable energy by 2030 and improving the energy efficiency of homes.

Conservative environmental policies will likely be discussed closer to polling day, with the release of party manifestos.

6 OPINION AND DEBATE Continued on from front page and have helped me massively with my degree; and my department have also been very understanding and have done absolutely everything within their power to help. However, there have definitely been times at Royal Holloway where I felt that it was unnecessarily difficult to... put arrangements in place to accommodate my disability, but most of these issues were eventually resolved to a good standard. All in all, I have always felt supported at Royal Holloway, and the VP Welfare and Diversity Role is a great port of call if I or others ever need help with any accessibility issues on campus’.

Now in a position where she can really make a difference to the current measures on campus, Sammy went into detail about what she is hoping to implement in her new position. She told me ‘One of the main changes I’m hoping to implement is to make student life more accessible, including through compulsory accessibility training for student group committee members. This is something I am currently working with Sophia Bolton, VP Societies, on and will be implemented by the end of this academic year.

The other main aspect of my manifesto focused on education: helping disabled students to understand their legal rights; and making the student population more aware of invisible disabilities.

We are currently planning many events throughout the year that focus on this, starting

with our ‘Disability and Brexit’ talk, which will educate on the risks to disabled people in the case of a no-deal Brexit’.

With there being a global focus on Disability awareness, I was keen to find out how other students can be helpful in the conversations across campus, and in their attitudes towards other disabled students. ‘My main advice would be to follow some disabled activists and educate yourself on what problems are impacting the disabled community.

One example of this is the proposition to ban plastic straws – most people don’t realise that plastic straws are sometimes the only way that disabled people can drink hot drinks safely, and so a blanket ban on plastic straws would be incredibly detrimental to disabled people. If you don’t know who to follow, I would recommend ‘The Mighty’, an online news site which publishes articles about disability and mental health.

Also follow Royal Holloway Disabled Collective on social media (@rhdisabledcollective on Instagram / ‘Disabled Collective – Royal Holloway’ on Facebook) to learn more about what issues are impacting the disabled community. Knowledge is power’.

The more we know about disabled students and their requirements, the more we can have open conversations, learn and be better allies. So clue yourself up! Don’t dismiss the issues because they don’t currently affect you or someone you know. You may not know what someone needs until you have that conversation and it is important to broaden your focus on issues which affect such a large proportion of students around you.

THE FOUNDER November 2019

The Art of Voting Tactically

NIAMH HOUSTON

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ollowing Boris Johnson’s failure to gain support for his proposed Brexit strategy, the current UK Prime Minister has called for a general election in the hopes of gaining a ruling majority of the Conservative party. With more seats behind Johnson in parliament, he would be much more likely to get his deal approved and in turn ‘Get Brexit done’ according to the new Conservative campaign slogan for the upcoming election. Unfortunately, it’s just not that simple. It is not a matter of getting Brexit done as soon as possible, it is about securing the best deal in order to minimise the inevitable and damaging impact that these decisions will have on the future of the United Kingdom. In a recent speech given by the soon to be former European Council President Donald Tusk, when considering if things could be turned around at this point Tusk simply provided the sentiment ‘don’t give up’. It is vital at this point to maintain hope, and to use this to fuel action.

It is clear to see that even three years on from the initial Brexit referendum, people have not yet given up. On the 19th of October, the Final Say march organised by People’s Vote was reported by organisers to have had ‘up to a million people’ in attendance said the BBC. Whilst public pressure has undoubtedly had an effect

Image source: Pixabay

on how MP’s have chosen to vote in crucial decisions throughout the process, we are at a political standpoint with the general election being the only visible route of escape. For those who have not given up, it seems that voting tactically may be their best bet.

In this scenario, tactical voting would be employed to prevent a Conservative majority; for example, in a majority Conservative constituency where Liberal Democrats are second and Labour are third, a Labour supporter may choose to vote tactically by voting for Liberal Democrats. According to Stephen Fisher, a professor of political sociology at Oxford University, tactical voting ‘played a big role in delivering a landslide for Labour’s Tony Blair in 1997 and it’s been a staple of elections since then’.

If you want to know how best to make your vote count,

then there are numerous resources such as https:/// www.remainunited.org/ and https://tactical.vote/ which can help guide you on how to best vote tactically within your constituency.

Creator of Remain United, business woman Gina Miller recently stated that ‘In the UK’s imperfect, unrepresentative and unfair first-past-the-post electoral system, there is only one answer and one last chance to stop the hard Brexit of the Johnson withdrawal agreement and political declaration documents – and that is for young people to vote tactically’.

However you choose to vote, please ensure that you turn up to the polling stations on the 12th of December and make sure your vote counts – it’s all of our futures at stake.

THE FOUNDER November 2019

OPINION AND DEBATE 7

Do Extinction Rebellion Deserve Recognition?

JORDAN FARRELL

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e are in a state of climate and ecological breakdown. A month on from the Extinction Rebellion (XR) protests in London it is important not to forget the cause for which they fight. The climate crisis affects every single person on this planet and will continue to do so until the world’s governments start taking action against it.

In a crisis such as this, which is contributing towards the Earth’s sixth mass extinction event, you would think most people would be sympathetic with the protestors, supporting them and what they fight for;

but many have taken the view that these protestors are hypocrites and even go as far as to deny that the climate emergency even exists. In fact, many seem to be completely outraged by the activists.

To those who do deny this and denounce the changes as naturally occurring events and part of a cycle, you are ignoring the effects that these changes are having on the planet already. We are seeing unprecedented extreme weather events, our forests are burning, animal and plant species are becoming extinct, sea levels are rising,

the Arctic is melting and that is just the tip of the iceberg.

Perhaps the biggest issue here is that this emergency is criminally underreported by the mainstream media and is not taught enough within our education system. This is something that Italy have just addressed; they are the first country to have made climate change lessons compulsory for their schoolchildren.

To those who denounce these protestors as hypocrites, they are absolutely correct.

Hypocrisy is at the centre of the climate emergency; it is at the centre of Extinction Rebellion. To protest and fight for the future of this

planet is to be a hypocrite. Our very existence contributes to the climate crisis and it seems nonsensical to brand these activists merely as hypocrites. They are so much more than that. Of course, the opinion of XR is not helped when our own Prime Minister brands them as ‘uncooperative crusties’ which really reflects how much this current government cares for our planet.

It is easy to be disheartened by the news we are hearing concerning this climate crisis, but movements such as Extinction Rebellion have done tremendous work in contributing to raising

awareness. Joining such movements should not be frowned upon and these people should be praised for demanding these changes. It is also important to remember that there are a wide variety of ways to contribute to this movement. You do not have to be camping out in Central London or be getting arrested in order to do so. As students, we have an enormous influence. We are the future of this country and we are the future of this planet. If we fight for climate justice, then we can bring about the change that the world needs.

There is no Planet B.

The Grenfell Report is Blaming the Wrong People IZZI VAUGHAN

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ecently, the Grenfell Inquiry published their findings on the tragic fire which took the lives of 72 people. The key conclusion of the inquiry was that the stay put strategy should have been abandoned sooner by the fire brigade. I find this conclusion repulsive, to say the least.

The stay put strategy is standard practice used by fire brigades when tower blocks catch fire. However, because the low-cost Aluminium Composite Material (ACM) cladding had been used on the refurbishment, instead of the fire-resistant zinc alternative, the fire spread much quicker than fire fighters could have been prepared for. Had the fire-resistant alternative been used, the fire would have been contained in flat 16 and no lives would have been lost, or at least many less. Instead, 72 lives were lost not because of the actions of the fire brigade who tried to save them, but because a slightly cheaper alternative cladding was used which did not meet fire safety standards. But it did save

the Conservative council £293,369.

Nearly £300,000was saved on the 2016 refurbishment of the tower by using flammable cladding, which seems like a lot of money. Until you consider the fact that the project cost £8.6 million and the Tory council had a budget surplus of £274 million the year of the fire. Not only did they cut costs by using flammable cladding, but the refurbishment also missed out on the installation of sprinklers and additional fire escapes which had been requested by residents of the tower block. What was included in the refurbishment was the new cladding and replacement windows, a communal heating system and a remodelling of the bottom floors. In other words, the appearance of the tower was improved with nothing done to improve the safety of residents. Of the properties in the area, 1,652 homes lay empty. More than enough to temporarily house the residents while they are

Image Source: The Telegraph

helped to find permanent accommodation. But that was not what the Tory council did in the aftermath of the tragedy.

Eighteen months after the fire, 96 families were still without permanent accommodation.

As of April 2019, 15 households are still without permanent accommodation, two years on from the fire. As for the ‘72’ people who died in the fire, the number of deaths is questionable. Approximately 350 people were said to have lived in the tower. Of these people, 14 were not in the

tower when it caught fire and 223 people are known to have escaped. Once you remove the 72 deaths, that still leaves around 41 people unaccounted for. The number is not final, because the bodies on the upper floors of the tower were so scorched that it was impossible to distinguish bodies from ashes. That is what happens when safety regulations and residents are ignored in favour of cheaper costs. There are still 24,800 homes across the country that are covered in ACM cladding. Boris Johnson has closed 10 fire

stations, cut 30 fire engines and 500 fire fighters. While the government has dropped the contractor Rydon who carried out the refurbishment, over two years after the fire (and in the run up to an election), no measures have been put in place to remove this dangerous cladding from other tower blocks.

After the report was published, Jacob Rees Mogg accused the victims of the fire of lacking common sense.

But while he lay blame with the victims, Jeremy Corbyn spoke out against the actions of the Tories and their decision to use flammable cladding and close fire stations. This tragedy is what happens when costs are prioritised over safety.

Fire fighters on the scene wrote their names on their helmets before going into the building, in case they did not make it. Doing so would make it easier to identify their bodies. They are absolutely not to blame for the tragedy.

They tried to save lives, while the Conservatives were cutting costs. This is a direct consequence of austerity.

8 FEATURES

THE FOUNDER November 2019

Living with ADHD Disabled Children’s Partnership Reveals I a £434 Million Funding Gap in Social Care ABEL FENWICK

SVILENA IOTKOVSKA

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he Disabled Children’s Partnership (DCP) is a growing coalition of more than 70 charities that work with parents to campaign for improved health and social care for disabled children, young people and their families. In a 2018 study, it was found that there exists an outrageous funding gap of £434 million for social care for disabled children and their families. The data of a survey which accompanied this research was not only shocking but more importantly, eyeopening.

The data provided by the DCP reveals that out of the 3,400 parents who filled out the survey, only 4% of parent carers feel that they receive the right support to safely care for their disabled child. The data goes on to further reveal that 54% of parent carers have been treated for mental health related issues while 53% have been forced out of a paid job in order to be able to care for their child. When looking at the statistics regarding the impact of this funding gap in regard to relationships, 40% of parent carers reported experiencing relationship breakdown with a partner whereas 64% say the lack of support has had a major impact on the breakdown of

a relationship. In addition, a third of parent carers (33%) say their child has experienced unnecessary extra pain due to the lack of right equipment, doctors or health service while a further 37% claimed that their child’s education has suffered due to the lack of staff and services to support them.

Amanda Batten, chair of the Disabled Children’s Partnership comments on the current funding gap as she states: ‘Services for disabled children have never been perfect. But cuts to budgets combined with a 33% increase in the number of disabled children over the last decade means we have reached a critical point – one where we need to decide what kind of country we want to be. We’re talking about some of the most vulnerable children in society.’

The DCP is campaigning to improve the social care for disabled children, young people and their families by first and foremost raising awareness to the hardships that they face every single day. There are four main issues with the services available for disabled

children and their families: there are not enough services, those that exist are not good enough, are difficult to access and do not always work or communicate well together.

Despite 1 in 5 people being disabled, an appalling 97% of parents say the public does not understand the challenges that their families face. This is due to the fact that 43% of the public – that is, almost half – claim that they do not know anyone who is disabled. So, if you do not know anyone disabled, how would you know their struggles and the challenges they face every single day?

For this reason, DCP has created the ‘Secret Life of Us’ campaign – through this campaign, DCP reveals the stories of the lives of disable children and their families.

In doing so, they aim to raise awareness to how they live and show us that what one may perceive as a basic and easy task is often challenging and at times completely impossible for another.

For access to the ‘Secret Life of Us’, more research and information on how to contribute to helping the campaigns of the DCP, visit disabledchildrenspartnership.org.uk

magine, if you will, a world without time.

It is the dream, is it not? No concept of an hour, a minute, a week unless it is marked by lectures on each day - just a constant, unending flow. Now, imagine this but constantly, while trying to study or catch buses or work an office job.

Welcome to the hell that is time blindness.

It is one of the key characteristics of ADHD, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, a condition often wrongly associated with hyperactive children and mythical blue food colourings or even, shockingly, dismissed as bad parenting. The condition is none of the above. ADHD is a developmental disability present from birth, and when diagnosed it is classified into one of three types: Hyperactive Type, Inattentive Type or Combined Type depending on the symptoms each individual display. Hyperactive type, notable for its fidgeting, frequent outbursts and difficulty controlling actions, is often diagnosed in infancy. Inattentive or Combined types, however, are far more difficult to spot.

Symptoms such as difficulty concentrating and completing tasks are dismissed as many things from laziness to apathy, careless mistakes to

Image source: Wikimedia

stupidity and all of the above internalised.

These diagnoses tend to take place later in life – in my case, aged 22, three days after losing my dream job.

Learning you have lived with an invisible disability since birth leads you to a whistlestop tour through all the stages of grief. I laughed when I was told, denied it, screamed furiously at my own mother for not noticing once reality had seeped in. I bargained my first failed university year – surely, I would have passed if I had had the right treatment?

– and I am still dealing with the grief that accompanies a lifelong condition. The acceptance, however, has saved my life.

I understand now, aged 24, that what works for other people will not work for me.

I have learned in terms of studies to do an entire course of reading in the summer holidays because I cannot do it week by week. I have learned to cut down alcohol and Facebook and tidy my house more.

Most importantly, however, I have unlearned a lifetime of self-loathing, vicious hatred once directed at myself now faded to a realisation that my condition is just an obstacle I have to work harder to get around.

To the 38 people in my Facebook messages, I will get back to you eventually, I promise.

FEATURES 9

THE FOUNDER November 2019

Disability on campus: the challenges faced MELISSA NOCK

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ow inclusive is Royal Holloway? As part of the UK Disability History Month (22nd November – 22nd December), I decided to interview a 2019 graduate of Royal Holloway about her experience as a disabled student. Khadija Raza, a first class Politics and International Relations student, graduated in July of this year. Partially sighted from the age of 14 and severely sight impaired at 16, Khadija has had to find other ways of doing things that we all take for granted.

Lucky enough to live with her in my first year, I witnessed her inspirational positive attitude towards life, despite her challenges.

Now a great friend of mine, I feel honoured to be able to interview her about such an important issue.

representative who has made good changes and created a community which gave me a good network. It was nice to be surrounded by people who understood the issues I had to face. There are disabled bathrooms around campus however I cannot see the signs and there is no braille.

In the library, the toilets are all next to each other and I am ashamed to say I have gone into the men’s a few times!

Another big challenge is leaving the library. There are buttons on the doors however the fire exit button is directly above so to save pressing the wrong button I would just wait for someone else to exit. It was hard to find room doors around campus also as there is no braille to tell me which room is which.

(laughs). I did not know the campus at all, but then I met my flatmates and it got better.

The university connected me with a buddy to help me get around campus, take my lecture notes for me and help me find the fire exits.

MN: What were your main challenges living on campus?

KR: Living in a flat, I found the main challenge to be cooking. The microwave and ovens were not accessible. I had to memorise everything and it was difficult to know if something had boiled or cooked properly. I had some things to make this easier, for example, special stickers to distinguish what was mine, and a special device for making tea, which beeped at me when I was pouring boiling water into my mug so I did not burn myself. Another challenge was the laundry system. I was able to use the MN: Regarding your app however syncing it with visual impairment, were the machine was an issue. you nervous to leave home As the app is touchscreen, I cannot see the buttons and and come to university?

KR: To be honest, the way had to ask the housekeeper I am, every time I have or another person to help. taken a risk it has paid off. This was demeaning because Challenge pushes me into I should have been able to becoming a better person. do this. If there were the When my parents left me proper tools there I could after dropping me off in first have done this. People come year I thought: ‘What have I to university to become done? This is a mistake – I independent and I have not know no-one here!’. It was been fully able to do this. a very depressing moment Walking around campus was

Image caption: Khadija Raza

a struggle especially trying not to bump into lampposts! I find the uneven steps around the library very difficult.

Usually, staircases have lines so I know when the steps are coming, however, there are no markers or a proper banister. I have slipped a few times, even broke a heel off my boot which was a disaster (laughs). Also, the campus is not lit very well at night time. This is a difficulty for everyone, however, I felt particularly vulnerable. Even getting myself ready in the

morning was a risk. Doing my make-up and choosing an outfit – I never really knew if I looked presentable.

MN: I was always in awe at how well you did your make-up! Do you feel the university became more accessible during your time here?

KR: Yes, in some ways. The library has specific spaces prioritised for those with a disability. Since my second year, the Student Union brought in a disabled students

MN: What about societies and sports clubs?

KR: I found I did struggle socially. My helper was not there to help me get to societies and, in the evening, there are fewer people around to help. I feel that societies need advice to figure out how to support people with disabilities.

MN: Thank you so much for allowing me to interview you Khadija on this important subject. It has been a real pleasure.

There certainly needs to be a review on the accessibility of disabled students.

10 LIFESTYLE Things I wish I had known: A First Year Survival Guide but if you find yourself time and time again feeling hurt or left short, the person, often he hype associated through no conscious fault with starting university of their own, is best moved is something which very on from. A lack of personal few students can miss. boundaries invites a lack of Friends, family members, respect. and strangers often exclaim that your time there will 2) Finding your natural surely be ‘the best of your group starts with learning life’. Often, this puts a large to like yourself. amount of stress to quickly The desire to meet people and make connections, swap get on with your neighbours numbers, and form tight knit often outweighs our personal groups as you settle down preferences in a bid to feel and embrace this fantastic less isolated in the first few opportunity in the chaotic weeks. This could simply first few months of your new take the form of staying up home. Although, there are for another drink despite the some very accurate cliques of fact you do not really want to. university life. Yes, someone The power of saying no is a will steal your milk and you wonderful thing. It is far better will end up in the library to embrace our individuality all night questioning your and take time for self-care to very existence, cursing your find the right crowd however procrastination, and vowing slowly. You will be surprised to do your assignments on at the number of people who time… until the next one… just fancy a night in with other stereotypes are less than popcorn and Netflix. true and often very harmful.

3) The power of coffee and 1) People you meet in your caramel waffles. first term are often not ‘true Coffee, especially when friends’ and that is okay. frantically trying to write an University accommodation assignment due at 9 a.m. the is luck to which students you next day, is one of the most share with and often people’s underappreciated joys. character does not emerge for Starbucks becomes a needed several weeks and months necessity as you sheepishly after you meet despite being queue up for your next friends. It is extremely expresso or caramel latte important to remember that at 3am (and this is from if you feel any inkling of someone who does not disagreement that you first actually like coffee). Paired talk it out healthily but if you with a caramel waffle it is find yourself clashing swords the perfect combination to frequently or settling for help you survive to sunrise anything other than respect looking less like a zombie then it is time to reassess when the morning light burns your priorities and have the your eyes. Trust me. confidence to walk away.

You may excuse a person’s Most of all, just remember to actions by believing they had embrace change and go with your ‘best interests at heart’ an open mind. Good luck.

ZOE NORMAN

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THE FOUNDER November 2019

Surviving Christmas Spending as a Student COURTNEY MCLAVEN

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hristmas can be an expensive time of year for everyone, which can be especially hard for us students. This will be a handy guide to have a wonderful festive period, just without splashing the cash.

1. DIY Decorations, gifts and cards The first step of getting into the Christmas spirit is decorating your house and doing this in your student housing/accommodation is no different, but this does not have to cost a fortune. Paper is a material which is cheap and also very diverse for making decorations. You can make paper chains, paper snowflakes (very nostalgic) and even make your own Christmas cards if you have an artistic flare. Similarly, gifts can also be homemade.

For example, you could paint plain plates and mugs to make them festive themed or bake cakes and treats.

Image credits: Gulfbank

your university friends.

3. Be organised It may only be November and you may not be even thinking about starting your Christmas shopping yet, but it might actually be beneficial to do so. If you start shopping early, you have events such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday to grab yourself some bargain gifts. Also, make sure you are using shops and sites which can offer you good student discount deals, always check Unidays or Student Beans before you are about to go on your shop. Getting together a 2. Secret Santa list of who you need to buy Within your student for is always a way to ensure household, instead of you don’t leave anything out. everyone buying multiple presents for everyone, which 4. Set budgets and gift can get very expensive the limits more people you live with, Everyone who knows you are suggest Secret Santa. By a student probably does not doing this, you are not only expect any flashy presents. cutting down on the quantity By setting yourself an overall of gifts you have to buy, but budget to spend as well as a you can also set a price limit. budget per person, you are If you set a budget of £10, keeping yourself organised everyone will be spending and ensuring you can afford the same amount which the gifts you are planning makes it a very fair and fun to buy. Also, a good way to way of giving gifts between keep costs low is to set gift

price limits with people are you are exchanging presents with. This will stop one person spending more than what the other could perhaps afford and then everyone is happy.

5. Book your travel in advance While not related to shopping or decorating, planning your Christmas travels in advance is key to saving money during the festive period. If you know you are planning on leaving campus for the holidays, book your train or coach tickets now. By booking weeks in advance, you can save serious money on tickets rather than if you were to buy them on the day when only the most expensive fares are left.

Booking early also avoids the disappointment of there not being any tickets left as December will be a very busy month for travel.

This is another key factor to consider within your Christmas budget, so why not get it out of the way early and have some extra cash to spend on your loved ones instead of a train journey?

LIFESTYLE 11

THE FOUNDER November 2019

The Founder’s Guide to Winter Skin Care KATY ALLISON

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uffering from dry, dull winter skin? Have no fear - The Founder has asked students across campus which products they use to make sure their skin is #flawless at all times. Here is your list of five recommended, tried and tested products that will treat your skin to some allimportant pampering.

Lush’s ‘Full of Grace’ An incredibly moisturising facial serum from Lush’s ‘Naked’ range, Full of Grace is infused with portobello mushrooms which are protective to the skin and which combat soreness during the winter. It also contains balancing calamine powder to absorb excess oils if you do not like the oily feeling which serums often leave on the skin. There are also fresh rose petals which fight against redness and soothes any soreness perfect for those cold, windy days. Oh, and it is vegan too.

Nivea’s Sensitive Moisturising Cream It is basic, it is affordable what more could a student want? For those with sensitive skin, this is perhaps better than Nivea’s original moisturiser as it does not cause redness, and it is super lightweight so your skin can breathe under any makeup.

Using it once in the morning and before bed will give you the moisturised skin of your dreams.

Lush’s ‘Grease Lightning’ Another recommended Lush product from students, Grease Lightning includes Earth’s natural antibacterial superpower - aloe vera gel, which is soothing and protecting to spots and dry skin. With upcoming December deadlines, your stress may be showing, so this is the perfect product to get rid of those annoying pimples. If you’re hopelessly devoted to clear skin, then this is the product for you.

The Ordinary’s ‘Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydration Support Formula Duo’ It might be on the pricier side, but The Ordinary’s products work miracles.

The hyaluronic acid is oilfree and penetrates deep to deliver intense, long lasting hydration.

Meanwhile, vitamin B5 enhances effectiveness to leave skin smooth and plump. Applying this twice a day along with your favourite moisturiser will give you Instagram-able skin all winter.

Dermalogica’s ‘Oil Free Matte SPF30 Cream’ It may be winter, but that doesn’t mean that your skin does not need protecting.

Dermalogica’s cream is perfect for oily skin as it is very light and moisturising, and it has SPF30 to keep the sun’s rays at bay. This being said, it helps to fight wrinkles and skin cancer in the long run. A little goes a long way with this product, so you will not need to worry about Image credits: Katy Allison running out any time soon.

I loved him CASSIE NEWHAM

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his article was written by a student who talks about the abuse she sustained from her step-father. Please do not read if this subject has personally affected you. For help, visit https://napac.org.uk/ I do not remember meeting him. I was so young. He tells me that I was naked and looking at him with wide expectant eyes. I was bare and open to him, even at the beginning. I trusted him. I welcomed him. He read me

bedtime stories and tucked child. I was just the baggage me in a night. I loved him. of my mother. The words still sting, even after all these I called him father once. He years. He betrayed me. was angry. He was not my father. He liked to remind me As I grew older, I tried to strip of this when I was reaching away my layers, open up to for him. He asked me if I him, in an attempt to please knew the difference between him. I told him I was gay. I him and my father. I did not. told him I was depressed. I “We both love you. But my told him of my faith. But I love is conditional.” I did not was foolish to think these understand. I was too young. things would help. They just became weaknesses. A soft I grew up. I was a teenager. piece of flesh he could aim The world was dark and cold for. And he did. and I turned to myself for comfort. He tried to break I felt shame. His bright eyes through my shell with angry, and sharp tongue attacked cruel words. I was not his me. He distrusted me. I asked

him for money to get help. He said yes and then made me prove my intentions. I felt like a wronged criminal, accused of a crime, showing evidence that I had done nothing wrong. “I am innocent” He did not believe me.

It was my fault. The people around me said so. My mother, my brother, him. If I had been less stubborn, if I had apologised, none of this would be happening. But I had been less stubborn. I had apologised. And it still happened. Over and over.

Like a broken clock ticking on the same second. Forever

trapped.

He never hit me. I count myself lucky that he took his anger out on objects and not me. But it is only now that I look back, that I can see the damage he did to me.

I am still stuck everyday fighting him. He tells me that I have no home, that I don’t belong. But at the end of the day, he turns to me, and says: “You know I love you, right?” If this is love, I would rather be hated.

12 LIFESTYLE Quick and Easy Meals on a Student Friendly Budget ELLIE DARWOOD

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acking up shop and travelling half-way across the country can simultaneously be the most exciting and nerve-wracking journey one can experience.

The new environment, the new people and the new experiences all have the potential to send one’s senses into a wild frenzy. The late night and early mornings clandestinely medal with one’s body clock while educational pressures send the brain’s cogs to work. It can be all but too easy to get consumed by these experiences and feel a bit like a fish out of water but sometimes taking a step back and reminding oneself of home comforts can do wonders.

Food. The answer to all questions. The remedy to all sickness. Food has the uncanny ability to make everything better and that is why we love is so much; it also helps that it is tasty.

But recreating home recipes at university can be both a chore and seem incredibly unattainable. Slaving over the stove after hours of lectures and before a wild night at the Student Union may possibly be the most unattractive prospect to well… anyone. Paired with the constant temptation of mouth-watering Domino’s goodness turning up at the door in a mere twenty minutes; it is a no brainer really. Sometimes an oven pizza will satisfy the cravings

THE FOUNDER November 2019

Things I learnt living with an Italian

but on other occasions your ALEX (ISABELLE) body yearns for a nutritious MECCANO-THOMAS ensemble of tasty vegetable. uring my year abroad, Usually on a cold winters I lived with an Italian evening, when Domino’s and McDonalds can no longer fill student. Highly intelligent the void where vegetables and witty, Carlotta Peverada were once present, I give in coached and supported me and whip up a long overdue through a whirlwind of healthy feast. Here are some emotions and experiences. of my favourite quick dinners While I definitely would not on a student friendly budget: have survived without her, 1. Chow Mein: This student she influenced more than staple can be paired with just my mental health. From vegetables, pork, chicken how I saw my friends to how or tofu to create a mouth- I saw myself, she certainly watering masterpiece which changed me for the better. will make you think twice Here are 3 things I learnt about ordering Chinese take living with an Italian: away.

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2. Pasta bake: A slight twist on the classis pasta dish. Pop it in the oven with plenty of grated cheese and serve with a side salad to boost veggie intake.

3. Bangers and mash: I personally love sweet potato mash, smothered in onion gravy and paired with pork and brambly apple sausages 4. Soup: I find that soup is very underappreciated and can often provide the warm, hearty meal you need after a long day of lectures, especially now that winter is approaching.

5. Fajitas: A great dish to make with flatmates and share around the kitchen table. Pair it with some potato wedges and a generous serving of guacamole.

1. FOOD The stereotype that Italians love pasta was certainly fulfilled by our resident Italian. The amount of penne I consumed over the last year would certainly have caused any nutritionist to have a meltdown. At the beginning of the year, pizza caused a few arguments amongst the group. As a full- blooded Italian, Carlotta was adamant that American pizza (such as Dominos) was an insult to her culture. However, during a particularly tough week, we ordered pizza to deal with the emotional trauma of university. And after much coaxing, she took a slice of pepperoni pizza. From this point, whenever I ordered pizza, she would swoop in and steal as much as she

could. I would often lose half a pizza to her addiction and even caught her ordering it behind my back.

2. Dress to impress Being a 23-year-old from northern Italy, Carlotta had her fair share of shopping trips to Milan. So, who better to get advice from? Her everyday was glamorous, and her glamorous was jawdropping. With long silky hair, and legs for days; she could pull off everything. For lounging around the house; a messy bun, large jumper, ratty shorts and flip flops made her look like a casual movie star. And for clubbing in the city, her heels and thin tops made her the subject of many eyes around the room.

The one time I went shopping with her and bought things (I

frequently accompanied her but was often carrying her bags more than shopping for myself), I spent nearly €200 on four items and vowed “never again”. But I do admit, those items (a jumper, heels, handbag and top) are my favourite things in my wardrobe.

3. Swearing After the last year, I believe that the phrase “swearing like a sailor” should be replaced by “swearing like an Italian”. While I am not sure of the direct translations of most words, I can be certain of their meaning.

Whether it was walking into doors or finding out we put milk in our tea, she had a swear word, or phrase, for every situation.

Image credits: Alex (Isabelle) Meccano-Thomas

THE FOUNDER November 2019

ARTS & CULTURE 13

Oh, What A Night!

1,000 Words: The Dog A Night at the Theatre Review by Francisco Goya NIAMH SMITH

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erformed on the nights of the 19 th and 20 th December, A Night at the Theatre, Royal Holloway’s inter-societal cabaret, was an immensely enjoyable night, showcasing great talent from across the university. Terrifically organised by Sorrell Wilson and Dan Loosely, the latter of whom also acted as compere, the night was by turns funny and moving, celebrating the hard work of the several performing arts societies on campus.

To begin the show, Absolute Harmony gave a splendid, feel-good rendition of George Ezra’s Shotgun, showing off the terrific vocals of their members. Their auditioned choir, Hardcore Harmony, performed later in the night, with a fantastic arrangement of I See Fire by Ed Sheeran. The night also saw the welcome return of Royal Holloway’s Gospel Choir, who were accompanied by a live band. The energy and enthusiasm of the members shone through in their performances of Joyful, Joyful and Oh, Freedom, and I cannot wait to see them perform more regularly in the future.

One of the most exciting aspects of the night was the opportunity to gain a glimpse

into the upcoming campus productions.

Shakespeare Society surprised with the high physicality and contemporary nature of their production of Coriolanus, earning a great response from the audience, whilst Woyzeck, presented by Drama Society, created an air of mystery and darkness that captured the tone of their play perfectly.

Meanwhile, Savoy Opera’s preview of Anything Goes contained terrific vocals from Hadley Wehner and a welcome sense of humour, creating a sense of anticipation for their performances on the 1st and 3rd December.

Out of all the Performing Arts societies, MTS appeared the most, with three separate segments. Emily Quillin again displayed her amazing vocal talent by performing Lying There from the song cycle Edges, due to be staged in the Boilerhouse on December 5th. For their main term show preview, MTS pulled out all the stops with a fantastically energetic performance of So Much Better from Legally Blonde: The Musical, running from 23rd26th November in the Students’ Union. The joy with which the ensemble performed was also evident in the night’s penultimate number, I’m a Believer from Shrek the Musical, which also highlighted the diversity

within the society.

Regarding the dramatic performances, it would be wrong to exclude Drama Society’s BAME piece A Conversation with my Agent.

This was quite possibly one of my favourite pieces of the night, performed with flair

by Kerryn Frean and Pearl Hoo. Elsewhere, the Holloway Players once again created a hilarious improvised piece, entitled ‘The Magic Flute’, showcasing the comedic talents of both their old and new members. Fashion Society stunned with their Film Noir catwalk, whilst Dance Society gave two performances – a heartfelt lyrical piece themed around ‘reaching’ and an incredible jazz routine, inspired by the James Bond films. Pole Fitness Society also dazzled with a mind-blowing showcase, inspired by the musical Chicago.

The show finished with a crowd-pleasing rendition of Tina Turner’s Proud Mary, featuring memorable solos from Molly Rafferty, Will Hamshaw and Sofia Little.

As all the societies featured came together for the finale, the curtain came down on a truly fantastic evening. I can only hope that there will be another edition next year to further show the amazing talents that we are privileged to have at our university.

ABEL FENWICK

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wo associations usually accompany any mention of the name Francisco Goya. Spaniards and art students may immediately think of his photorealistic portraiture, a talent which led to a 25-year stint as official painter of the Spanish Court. The first recollection for most people, however, is the wide, wild eyes and gaping, blood soaked mouth of the eponymous Saturn Devouring His Son. Francisco Goya never named his Black Paintings, a series of murals painted directly onto the walls of his villa, in the grip of both physical and mental illness, as they were never designed to be viewed by the public.

The titles have therefore been devised by art curators in the time since the paintings were transferred to canvas in 1878 and shown at a Parisian exhibition. In its native Spanish, one particular painting is known as El Perro or Perro Semihundido, whilst in French, it is titled Tête de chien or Le Chien. Yet more variations arise in English, with it variously called Head of a Dog, The Buried Dog, The Half-Drowned Dog and The Half-Submerged Dog. It is easy upon viewing the piece to understand why such titles transcend language barriers.

The painting is arguably Goya’s bleakest, consisting of a small, detailed dog’s head dwarfed by two dull swathes of paint. The impression created by the dark ochre mass which makes up the lower third of the painting is that of sand dunes, a shifting mass which may have submerged the portion of the body the viewer cannot see, and buried the poor creature up to its neck. The eyes are glassy and hopeless, staring up at the pinnacle of an incline it can-

The Dog by Francisco Goya

not hope to reach. The lack of movement within the painting creates a pathos that exceeds any narrative that could be formed.

Mysteries have shrouded the Black Paintings since their discovery, most notably whether or not Goya could have painted them, given that the second floor they were allegedly found on was only constructed after his death.

Staring at the grotesque, unparalleled horror of the images Goya painted, it is almost understandable to seek something unnatural in their origins which would contextualise them. Perhaps the paintings simply were forgeries, pinned under his name in an attempt to rid his son of debts.

Details gleaned about the life of Francisco Goya, however, lend these inhumane horrors a very human conception. Aged 46, Goya suffered a near-fatal illness which left him entirely deaf. The Dog is most striking for the utter isolation of its subject, a head detached from the very body it belongs to and within this context, the empty space which bisects the painting speaks volumes. Like Van Gogh’s Sorrowing Old Man, The Dog functions as a way of conceptualising a suffering which words cannot: the isolation of an elderly painter alone in his Quinta del Sordo, the House of the Deaf Man.

14 ARTS & CULTURE

THE FOUNDER November 2019

Great Expectations at the Southwark Playhouse – A Review GABRIEL SAWYER

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reat Expectations at the Southwark Playhouse is a wonderfully immersive gothic experience, perfect for a cold autumn night. The National Youth Theatre’s take on Dickens’ classic tale marries the macabre atmosphere of Victorian London with an undeniable charm and surprising humour.

The story follows Pip as he rises from a blacksmith’s apprentice to a gentleman, and his tumultuous relationships with a convict on the run, a jilted bride frozen in the moment of her betrayal, and her manipulative hot-and-cold daughter. Performed in traverse, with minimal set and a chorus perfectly establishing the eerie atmosphere of Dickens’ London, this show is a credit to the rising talent in the National Youth Theatre.

In the role of Pip, Joseph Payne leads the performance with confident charm and humour. His small asides to the audience and narratorial

tone bring a level of humanity and relatability to an otherwise naive character.

Payne slides elegantly between the Dickensian extremes of meek, working class orphan boy and fine, arrogant gentleman to create an expertly composed performance.

Another standout performance is that of Tiwalade Ibirogba-Olulode as Miss Havisham. A notoriously tricky character to tackle, especially at such a young age, Ibirogba-Olulode makes it seem easy. Every movement made onstage is deliberate - there is no action without intention. Even vocally, she transitions easily between taunting and jeering to severe and intense without batting an eyelid, creating an enthralling performance that is an absolute joy to watch.

I would be remiss if I did not also mention Alice Franziska in the role of Estella. Her character arc is executed with flair and confidence, becoming poised and considered where once she was precocious and teasing. An adult playing a child can slide towards the pantomime-esque, but Franziska embodies the role

Miss Havisham (Tiwalde Ibirogba-Olulode) and Estella (Alice Franziska)

of younger Estella as though it were a second skin. She more floats than walks, carrying an air of elegance that changes the atmosphere of every scene she enters.

The use of props within the ensemble proved a wonderfully effective tool.

Twice in the show, handheld mirrors surround Miss Havisham in a beautiful moment of relived trauma

and mania, eventually leading to her death as her decaying wedding dress is set alight. The physicality of the ensemble is entrancing, from climbing the metal frames at either end of the set, to simple gestures like drawing a finger over where the scar would sit on Compeyson’s face.

Great Expectations is testament to the skill and promise of Britain’s young

performers. The set, prop and lighting design are creative and carefully thought-out, and there is a clear connection between the cast that results in a beautifully coherent and spine-chilling performance.

Running until the 28th November at the Southwark Playhouse in Elephant and Castle, Great Expectations is a charming journey to the gloom of the misty streets of Victorian London.

Shakespeare Society’s Coriolanus: A Review HARRY MEAR

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lthough not one of Shakespeare’s most popular or recognisable plays, Royal Holloway’s Shakespeare Society has achieved their iteration of Coriolanus with emphatic gesture as dynamic performances from the leading and supporting cast ensure a gripping tragedy of conflict, betrayal and romance.

Set amongst the political and social angst of the newly established Republic in Ancient Rome, the play concerns the Roman general Caius Marcius, who must deal with plebeian riots and the advancing threat of the Volscian army under the command of his rival and nemesis, Tullus Aufidius.

Despite his triumphs, political aspirations and distinguished title of Coriolanus, Marcius falls foul of consulate

treachery and revolt.

This gripping production, directed by George Collins, focuses upon the chaos and spontaneity of the play in an interpretive style and does so with great vigour and success.

Through fluid movement and physicality, the performances of the cast involve rapid and practiced dance scenes in which the nature of the conflict, whether it be a battle or riot, is crafted into a violent and impassioned

visualization. The effect of these carnal scenes establish a haunting, yet enchanting, overtone to the entire play. William Lawson, as the titular character of Coriolanus, captures a soundly commanding and resolute performance, using his booming baritone to a worthy effect. Supporting performances from James Shannon as Aufidius and Charlie Penny as Menenius provide comedic relief to the

more serious Coriolanus, to great emotional value for the audience.

With the passionate involvement of the cast and crew, this well envisioned production deserves an encore reception and Shakespeare Society’s next effort should be one to be awaited with anticipation and high expectation.

THE FOUNDER November 2019

ARTS & CULTURE 15

Extinction Rebellion: Activists or Artists?

NIAMH SMITH

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ne afternoon in August, I was doing some sightseeing in Cambridge when I was met by a very unusual sight. A group of women wearing red kimonos, and in heavily adorned gold headdresses, were walking down the middle of a busy street, halting traffic. They carried flares, producing smoke that enveloped those who had stopped to watch, and placards containing slogans, such as ‘Rebel for Life’ and ‘Act Now!’ I am, of course, talking about Extinction Rebellion. A global grassroots movement that started with students and academics, it has risen to become one of the largest climate action groups, with the ‘International Rebellion’ in October seeing over 30,000 campaigners join the main protest in London and the movement being mentioned over 70,000 times within the media. Extinction Rebellion has proved controversial in some quarters, mainly because of the disruption caused by the protests, and its white and middle-class focus.

Whilst there are undeniable problems with the organisation, there

Extinction Rebellion's installation in the National Portrait Gallery on the 20th October 2019

is something inherently transfixing about the methods that Extinction Rebellion uses to relay their points. Their ‘do-or-die’ approach to protest has led to several memorable setpieces, usually followed by a multitude of arrests. This has much in common with the radical methods used by the Suffragettes when campaigning for women’s right to vote. Whilst this has

certainly proved to be a major attraction for the media, perhaps more interesting is their interpretation of performance art, raising questions about what it means to be an artist in the modern world.

The concept of performance art originally arose out of the Futurist movement in the early twentieth-century.

Like much of the art made over

the course of the last century, performance art represented a rejection of previous art forms that had come before. It was more fluid, relying on the artist/performer to control the work in a way that had never been seen before. It could be live or pre-recorded, scripted or completely improvised.

As such, this reliance on the ‘action’ of the

artist/performer has seen performance art often being married to social or political issues. As such, it is not hard to view Extinction Rebellion through the lens of this art form. For example, on October 20 th , activists took over the National Portrait Gallery to perform in the BP Portrait Award exhibition space.

Three protestors led on the floor in just their underwear, whilst other protestors circle them, drizzling oil over their almost naked bodies.

There was something almost grotesque about the performance: the stained bodies of the protestors intertwined with each other.

But that was entirely the point.

There are many distorted and hideous elements to the current climate crisis. The nakedness of the protestors sharply contrasted with the suits worn by those who drizzled the oil. The idea of corporate greed destroying the natural, ‘naked’ beauty of the Earth is a point that has been made many times, but Extinction Rebellion have captured the public attention here, in ways that placards and marches simply cannot.

Activism undeniably needs art.

Nights at the (Community) Theatre SASKIA PAGE

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ommunity Theatre as a whole tends to have a bad reputation. It is awkward, generally embarrassing and impossible to take seriously.

It makes sense that a show put on by amateur actors with a low budget, little rehearsal time, and a multi-purpose

venue would be all of those things, and probably more.

But at the same time, those very aspects are exactly what makes local productions great. Here are a few reasons why I think we should all set aside our snobbery and embrace the art form that is community theatre:

Tickets are cheap and great value Obviously, any community theatre experience you attend will be incomparable to a show in the West End, but the prices will be too.

Most seats in a production sell for less than £15 and, if you arrive early enough, you could score the best seats in

the house! The pricing on these tickets does not only benefit you, it also directly impacts your community.

Unlike with a professional show, the money you pay usually goes straight back to the local organization that runs the troupe and they see the impact of your contribution in their next

performance. These small scale operations improve the cultural scene and quality of life in your town. Sometimes, they are even charity events.

Who knew theatre-going could be so ethical?

You never know what is in store If you are like me, you love

16 ARTS & CULTURE to be surprised by the innovation and originality of a performance. In a community theatre setting, the cast and crew are under even more constraints than in a professional one, which always results in some praiseworthy creative problem-solving. Improvised sets and costumes sourced from homes and the aisles

of the nearest Poundshop ensure a unique performance every time. This means that even when you attend a wellknown production, you will never have seen it done like this before. A few blunders are bound to happen in any authentic experience, but sometimes they make the whole affair even better. For example, at a recent murder-

mystery performance I attended, one character kept forgetting the true identity of her unborn child’s father. Instead of ruining the mystery, the spread of misinformation added more layers to the intrigue!

You might even come away with some new friends All of the performers

THE FOUNDER November 2019

of a community theater production are real people who live in the same town and frequent the same places as you do. You might not ever catch Benedict Cumberbatch walking his dog in the park around the corner, but you might see Sarah who played Mrs. Lovett in Sweeney Todd last week. This is an opportunity to interact with

the people around you and take an active role in society.

In giving community theatre a chance, you are supporting your community economically, socially and culturally, entertaining yourself, viewing a unique piece of art and saving yourself money.

Go check out some theatre!

An Actor Despairs: Behind the Scenes CERI-ANNE GATEHOUSE

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ritten and produced

by Max Dobson, The Student Workshop’s original production An Actor Despairs details the struggles of a group of friends uncertain of where their lives are going, and how to deal with that uncertainty.

In a world that seems to push the narrative that going to university is the only way to progress one’s career, Dobson summarises this struggle: ‘everything’s got to be done now’. He describes the panic of a fast-paced world, where young people are constantly losing time to become a fully-fledged adults. Originally pitched as a television pilot, the play takes inspiration from Dobson’s own experiences of doubt about university and acting in general. The play presents this through a style influenced by Stanislavski Technique and the practices of KneeHigh Theatre.

Throughout the casting process, Dobson, alongside co-directors Charlie Caldarella and Loredana Gibilaro, searched for nine actors who seemed to embody the essence of the

characters both on and off stage. Caldarella explains this reasoning as to: ‘Casting actors that have a strong relatability to the characters ensures that we stay close to the Stanislavski mode of acting’. For example, they decided to cast four of the lead characters by gender but chose to cast the remaining five roles as gender-blind, focusing on the personality of their actors, rather than their gender. The final cast consists of Cameron Wight, Ethan Chappell-Mason, Anna Robinson, Lucy Ambrose, Peter No, Ciara Stevenson, Isha Khahira, Lucy Sarasin and Adam Bosher. All the actors share great chemistry and enthusiasm, both in and out of characters – a defining factor that the production team searched for during the process.

During the rehearsal stages, the cast picked up the staging and scripting much quicker than Dobson, Caldarella and Gibilaro expected, already blocking and developing scenes ahead of schedule. Gibilaro explained that this quick pace ‘allowed the cast to really gel and find their

footing in the characters’.

The positivity and flow of the production does not end there, with the production team being equally as close to the actors as they are to each other. For example, stage managers Phoebe Greenstreet and Kamila Lagraba and producer Ed Larkin join the cast at the beginning of each rehearsal to hold a ‘check-in’ to see

Anna Robinson (Max) in rehearsal Image source: Kamila Lagraba

how everyone involved with the production is feeling. It is obvious that the cast and crew share a unique chemistry, one that will undoubtably benefit them come performance time. Dobson states with the performance looming that ‘[The cast and crew are] all very excited and nervous to share our production with everyone, but there’s a warm sense of fear that we’re all

going to miss each other too much when it’s done’.

If you are interested in seeing An Actor Despairs, tickets are available from £3 for Thursday 28th and Wednesday 29th November via The Student Workshop’s Facebook page.

Both performances commence at 7pm in the Boilerhouse Theatre.

THE FOUNDER November 2019

LITERARY REVIEW 17

Twelve Days of Christmas: A Christmas Love Story SOPHIE DEAVILLE

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ebbie Macomber’s Twelve Days of Christmas is a delightful and heart-warming love story between two neighbours, Cain and Julia. The novel initially seems to have a predictably optimistic enemies-to-lovers storyline but Macomber challenges this predictability with a rather unpredictable twist to Cain and Julia’s love story.

Twelve Days of Christmas begins with Julia’s cheerful personality being constantly challenged by her standoffish neighbour, the ever-grumpy Cain Maddox. When Cain

Image source: pexels.com

pushes Julia over the edge with his rudeness, she decides to inject some Christmas spirit into him whilst killing him with kindness. Julia starts to keep track of her progress with a blog named ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’ where she gives daily updates of her interactions with Cain and how she feels about her so-called ‘Ebenezer’. As Julia and Cain start to interact more as a result of Julia’s plan, the pair find that their feelings for each other develop slowly but surely until a discovery is made that changes their growing bond.

With the days being mostly gloomy, wet and miserable at

this time of year I often do not feel that winter or Christmas are right around the corner, but after reading Twelve Days of Christmas, my Christmas spirit has been restored.

Julia’s chipper personality connected with my inner child and her infectious high spirits reinvigorated my excitement for Christmas and the winter holidays. However, Twelve Days of Christmas is not just a Christmas story, it is also a heart-warming reminder that kindness can come into anyone’s life, often in the most unexpected of places, and that it can make a significant difference to those who accept kind acts.

With that having been said, Julia is often more invasive at times than I found comfortable and her manipulation of Cain’s perception of her often seems unfair and intruding.

Julia tends to jump to extreme conclusions without thinking that there could be another reason for Cain’s standoffish and reclusive behaviour that has nothing to with her. Her invasion into Cain’s personal life and hunting down his grandfather felt stalkerish and uncomfortable, despite her intentions.

Image source: pxfuel.com

Overall, Twelve Days of Christmas is a wholesome Christmas read with a happy love story ending to it. The characters, like all human

beings, have their faults, but this does not take away from Macomber’s genuinely heart-warming novel.

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Books to get you into the winter spirit SIMRAN GREWAL

Harry Potter – JK Rowling An old classic. Who else still says a slightly passive aggressive ‘calmly’ during that one scene in Goblet of Fire?

It is like a reflex gifted to me by my ancestors after years of natural selection: now that I have started, I cannot stop.

Take a Christmas photo at Founders before going home for the holidays so that when you post it all your friends can comment “What do you study again? Defence Against the Dark Arts?” while the Harry Potter reruns play in the background – a classic.

Grisha – Leigh Bardugo Leigh Bardugo’s Grishaverse is a stunning trilogy that oozes dark cold tendrils of mystery and magic into even the blandest winter day. If you have made it through the commitment of seven Harry

The Northern Lights

by Phillip Pullman: A Review ALEX MECCANO-THOMAS

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pologies must be given.

I am not the biggest Christmas fan. I do not mind the songs here and there – it is when I have heard Michael Bublé sing the same song for the eighth time that day that I know I am about to snap.

To escape the curse of Home Alone 2 ringing in my ears like a loop, I turn to books to entertain myself over the lead up to December. I love to read when I have the time. I will read whatever – I am not too fussy – but in all my years of being alive there are some books that never fail to put me into a magical wintertime mood.

THE FOUNDER November 2019

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Image Source: Simran Grewal

Potter books, a trilogy cannot physically hurt you, I promise.

Frankenstein – Mary Shelley Frankenstein is such a good read – a little trickier because of all the Victorian English and phrases and all, those, commas, everywhere, all, the, time.

The descriptions and the underlying meaning and nuances to the plot are a literature student’s dream come true no matter what critical lens you want to analyse it in if you are that hardcore. There is snow, morality and deplorable activities that make for a classic winter read.

A Study in Scarlet – Arthur Conan Doyle I like to use A Study in

Scarlet as a precursor to Cluedo; it really gets me in the mood for demolishing my arch-nemesis (read: my brother) and establishing myself as the family brains while solving a fake board game murder with perhaps more seriousness than is healthy.

Love in a Fallen City – Eileen Chang Admittedly, this is a series of novellas. The worlds that Chang weaves together in her works are darkly sensual and addicting. There is not much in the way of wintertime, but the artful storytelling is like the crackle and flicker of a fireplace in the icy night – dangerous but inviting!

Eileen Chang is a master at her work and Love in a Fallen City is perhaps her greatest of all time.

his month, the BBC aired their adaptation of Phillip Pullman’s bestselling novel, the first in the His Dark Materials series. So, it seemed appropriate that I choose this title. Published in the late 90s, it is responsible for igniting excitement in many children across the globe (including me).

Pullman transports the reader from the rooftops of Jordan College, Oxford, to the icy plains of Svalbard, and beyond. The story follows the life of a young girl, Lyra Belacqua, as she attempts to follow her dream of travelling North. Written from the point of view of an observer, the reader gains insight into the thoughts and feelings of more than just a singular character.

It uniquely solves a problem that many novels face; how to increase intrigue without giving away the secret. With snippets of conversations and fleeting explanations, the story pulls you along into the search for the missing children, and invites you to pray for their safe return.

Pullman’s novel is set in an alternate universe, where the souls of humans walk along-side them. As a child, the soul (known as a daemon) can transform into any creature it wants. But as the child matures into adulthood,

the daemon settles into one form that represents the soul of the human. The imagery of this transformation is not lost on me. The depiction of a soul outside of the body is a vulnerable thing, and exposes the person to the world in a raw state. The idea of everyone being able to view your soul is a heavy burden. The transformation of the child daemon demonstrates how childhood is a journey of exploration and discovery. The settling of the daemon is similar to how many films and books depict a coming of age moment for children. While most people do not have a life-altering moment, these singular events demonstrate the end of a journey and the beginning of a new one.

This book is a light read, despite being full of dark imagery and powerful forces that Lyra has to choose to ally herself with, or turn against. With a strange medley of characters, and a large collection of talking polar bears, it is easy to see why this book is a bestseller.

Whether you have read it before as a child, or never even glanced at the cover, this is the perfect book to curl up with over Christmas, as you sip hot chocolate and lazily watch the snow fall.

Merry Christmas!

THE FOUNDER November 2019

LITERARY REVIEW 19

Rumpole at Christmas by John Mortimer: A Review DANIEL RIDDLE

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ith the change of seasons and the days drawing shorter, I began to enter the festive spirit and decided to look for inspiration in my mother’s rather impressive collection of Christmas books that she annually brings out to read in the slow build-up to the Christmas period. I settled on Rumpole at Christmas purely out of curiosity, as I had never previously read any books in the series, and to see why it had become part of her Christmas traditions.

The book consists of a series of short stories featuring the titular Horace Rumpole, a long practicing defense barrister, as he attempts to both ensure justice is served in the law courts and simply get through the trials and tribulations of the Christmas period.

The Christmas holidays and the justice system

Source: Flickr

frequently collide, however, as Rumpole regularly finds himself drawn into festive themed crimes, such as a theft committed by Santa Claus, or a murder during Rumpole’s Christmas vacation. One of the undeniable strengths of the book is the character of Rumpole, as I found his dry wit and sheer pleasure taken from the simple things in life, such as a hearty Christmas meal, infectious and invested me with a greater anticipation for the Christmas holidays.

However, the collection proves to be a rather eclectic mix of stories varying from four to forty pages in length, and unfortunately the book suffers as a result of this large variation. Although some of the running jokes (such as Rumpole’s nickname of ‘She who must be obeyed’ for his wife, Hilda, are initially quite humorous, albeit arguably

sexist) the nature of the book as a collection of short stories means that such continuing jokes quickly wear thin as Mortimer ensures to repeat it in every single introduction for the character in every single story. The variations in the length of the stories also contributes to a large discrepancy in the quality of the narrative, as the richness offered by some of the more substantial stories is simply incomparable to the content of the four page long ‘Rumpole and the Christmas Party’, which consists of little more than his account of exchanging Christmas presents with his wife.

As a result, Rumpole at Christmas proves to be a difficult book to earnestly recommend, as the varying quality of the stories means it is simply not worth reading from cover to cover.

Great Tales of Old Russia: A Review MATTHEW SMITH

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reat Tales of Old Russia is a collection of short stories by authors such as Anton Chekhov, Ivan Turgenev and Maxim Gorki.

The collection begins with a story by Chekhov, titled The Actress, which focuses on an actress who is confronted by the spouse of an admirer.

The spouse accuses the titular actress of luring her husband away from her whilst also impoverishing his family by accepting his gifts to her. We then witness the story unfold as the actress responds to the wife’s accusations.

Further in this collection, there is a piece by Ivan

Turgenev, titled The District Doctor, which manages to capture the essence of life in Imperial Russia, both for the peasant class and respected professionals. The story follows the emotional turmoil of a doctor who treats a peasant woman at a time when her condition starts to deteriorate. As the peasant woman comes to terms with her imminent death, she confesses her love for the doctor, who himself has a surprising response. The intricacy of this story comes from the assumptions it forces the reader to make as they must contemplate whether a doomed love was formed between the titular doctor and

his dying patient.

As a final example, I will mention a piece by Maxim Gorki called One Autumn Night, a story which concerns a young man who arrives in a town with no money and no place to stay. He goes down to the docks in search of food and unexpectedly comes across a poor young woman. The pair spend the night trying to find food and a place to rest whilst forming a distant yet personal bond.

This story’s melancholy tone is its main strength as it points to the dismal absurdity of life as a pauper and highlights how society will reflexively turn away from confronting these issues.

Source: Wikimedia

These pieces address various sections of Russian society, but they are connected by some common elements. These stories do not have clear heroes

or villains, they do not have clear moral lessons and they do not provide ideological solutions.

These stories linger with you because they seem so real; they depict life with all its tragedy, horror, irony and occasional joy whilst maintaining a sense of realism. These writers are considered great because they can evoke emotions seemingly from banal situations and they can create the distinct impression that the universe is entirely apathetic to the plight humans make for each other and the happiness they manage to salvage.

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THE FOUNDER November 2019

The Winter Soldier: A Review MEGAN WATSON

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he Winter Soldier, written by Daniel Mason, bestselling author of The Piano Tuner, has created a moving and thoughtprovoking novel about the hardships of The Great War. Being a lover of historical fiction, I have only had the opportunity to read a handful of books on World War One, but I am thrilled I managed to find this one. The story begins in Northern Hungary in 1915 at a train station covered in a thin layer of snow. Mason describes ‘snowflakes […] beginning to form on the tracks’; this cold wintry

setting reflects the bleak and bitter atmosphere of the war and perfectly complements the rest of the novel. We meet Lucius, a twenty-twoyear-old medical student in the brink of war. But as we read through the first chapter, there is little information on the war or the protagonist.

Instead, we are thrust into a rather sombre atmosphere in Northern Hungary where the war has already begun.

There is a sense of mystery as Mason deliberately does not tell us anything: we are straight into the action.

As the story unfolds, we see snippets of Lucius’ life before the war, including his

Waterstones book cover

aristocratic Polish family and his dreams to become a doctor.

The war is inconvenient for Lucius as he finds it disrupts

his studies. But, as he sees other medic students sign up to help in the army, he starts to romanticise the war as he thinks it will be a great experience and help his medical research. However, when we read about Lucius being sent to Lemnowice in the Carpathian Mountain and left in a remote field hospital where all doctors have fled but one nurse, we realise that the opposite is the case. From here we see first-hand traumas of the war, a blossoming romance and Lucius’ haunting memories.

The Winter Soldier captivates its readers, captures the true horror of

war and evokes strong and heart-breaking emotions.

It follows the gripping themes of tragedy, love, loss, guilt and human nature.

The unique nature in which Mason writes the novel from the doctor’s perspective had me enthralled throughout.

At times, the novel uses medical terms which only made me more curious and involved, wanting to learn new things. Reading a war story from the eyes of a doctor rather than a soldier was so intriguing.

This novel is not easy to put down and definitely a winter must-read.

Last Christmas in Paris: An unexpected story of WWI RUXANDRA VRABIE

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ew York Times bestselling author Hazel Gaynor and Heather Webb co-wrote an unforgettable epistolary novel, Last Christmas in Paris which gives both a realistic representation of World War One and a strong romantic feeling.

The novel is set in August 1914 and Evie Elliott prepares to say goodbye to her brother, Will Elliot, and his best friend, Thomas Hardy, as they both depart for the front lines.

However, before they leave, the three of them promise to spend Christmas together in Paris as Evie, like everyone else at the time, naively believes that the war will be over before the holiday season.

As Will and Tom begin corresponding through letters with Evie, both boys describe their enthusiasm in fighting on

the front lines, which is fuelled by delusional patriotism and a vision of returning home as war heroes.

Gaynor and Webb use Evie’s character as the embodiment of the developing modern woman. As a member of the upper class, Evie’s life does not change much after the boys’ departure, as her pretentious and unrealistic mother still expects her to accept the marriage proposal of an upper-class friend of her brother, Will. Through Evie’s parents, Gaynor and Webb criticise the upper-class people for their indifferent attitude towards the war as lower- and middle-class young men give their lives on the battlefield. For Evie’s parents, the outbreak of the war does not seem to have any major importance as they safely wait within the comfort of their home.

Unlike her parents, Evie feels restless and wants to get

involved in the war effort, so she starts to work as a clerk for the War Office. Later in the book, she starts writing columns for a newspaper about the war offering a female perspective. However, her writing becomes more and more controversial as she starts to express a realistic and truthful view of the war fuelled from Will and Tom’s letters.

Meanwhile, on the front line, Tom’s enthusiasm ceases to exist as the cruel realism of the war begins to settle and he realises the meeting at Christmas in Paris will have to wait until next year.

Tom also receives devastating news from home and a sense of hopelessness instils in him as he starts thinking of his family and starts regretting parting with his father on bad terms.

As the war ends, Tom arrives in Paris to finally meet Evie and declare his love for

her, but one more letter waits for him instead.

L a s t Christmas in Paris is a light read and Gaynor and Webb craftily manage to contour a truthful view upon the horrors of the war whilst also depicting a romantic Source: Ruxandra Vrabie epistolary relationship between also criticising the falsehood Tom and Evie. Through and lack of transparency of certain deaths, the authors the media and beautifully suggest that, in the end, the horrors of war are felt encapsulating the need of by everyone including development and elopement the upper class, whilst of the modern woman.

ARTS: FILM 21

THE FOUNDER November 2019

The King [REVIEW] Our Ladies [Review] A Mischievous, Must-Watch Coming-of-Age

Justice for Falstaff

GEORGIA DE SOUZA

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A still from the film SAM MCLOUGHLIN

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n his new film The King, David Michôd attempts what the 2012 mini-series Hollow Crown and Justin Kurzel’s worthy stab at Macbeth tried, and failed, to do: get our Netflix and chill generation excited about Shakespeare. Sadly, this only seems achievable by getting rid of the key aspects of The Bard’s original work. Like Baz Lurhman’s Romeo and Juliet, in which the director uprooted the play’s Renaissance Italian setting and thrust the drama into modern-day America, David Michôd makes one obvious sacrifice in the making of this film.

Instead, he keeps the setting but does-away with the Shakespearian language.

Unlike Lurhman’s choice, which I always considered to be stylish and refreshing, his seems to be a blatant sacrifice in the quest of mainstream viewership and it results in something that does not really feel like Shakespeare at all. It loses a lot of its original poetry.

Although Michôd and Joel Edgerton provide us with interesting dialogue, any

fan of the original work is likely to be disappointed by this particular choice.

On the positive side of things, the performances are all very watchable and impressive, with almost all of the main cast switching out their native accents for English and French ones (Timothèe Chalamet, Joel Edgerton, Robert Pattinson, Lily-Rose Depp and Ben Mendelsohn). While I might question Michôd’s stylistic choices, besides the clumsy conclusion, there’s a great deal of redemption to be found in his and Edgerton’s narrative decisions. This is especially obvious in their treatment of the character of John Falstaff (Edgerton).

As fans of the plays will be aware, Falstaff features prominently in the first half of the Henriad plays, only to be dismissed by both Hal (Timothèe Chalamet) and Shakespeare as a fool and left to die off stage. In Michôd’s production, however, this narrative is hinted at but ultimately rejected in favour of a more glamorous presentation. Amongst the swarms of sycophants and snakes, the ‘followers and foe’ of a king, as he puts it, Falstaff provides a grounded touchstone for the young

King Hal as well as a heroic underdog.

Shakespeare fans who were baffled by The Bard’s treatment of arguably one of his famous characters will sure to be delighted by Michôd and Edgerton’s take on the knight.

All in all, although the men behind the camera make some questionable decisions, they also make some insightful ones. The cinematography is drearily beautiful and the final battle sequence is one of the best in recent memory.

The language issue aside, The King is an enjoyable rejuvenation of an old classic peppered with some fairly captivating performances—Pattinson, Edgerton and Mendelsohn standing out. After their recent release of a steady stream of teen rom-coms which make John Hughes look like Francis Ford Coppola, The King, along with El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie, seem to signify some wise choices being made at the streaming service.

The King is now streaming on Netflix.

ix sexually frustrated teenage girls on a trip to the city of Edinburgh could only lead to an enormous amount of mischievous entertainment and Michael Caton-Jones did not disappoint in his longawaited film Our Ladies.

Taking over 20 years to come into fruition, only completing it two days before the initial premiere at the 63rd BFI London Film Festival, the film follows the journey set in the 1990s as a Catholic girls’ choir from Fort William travel to Edinburgh for a competition, however for some of them, the competition is far from their main priority for the day as they spend it getting entangled in several difficult and hormonally charged situations. CatonJones effortlessly creates full characters for each individual leading girl: Orla (Tallulah Greive), Fionnula (Abigail Lawrie), Chell (Rona Morison), Manda (Sally Messham) Kylah

A still from the film

(Marli Siu) and Kay (Eve Austin) whilst maintaining their undeniably strong bond, the foundation of every choice taken in the narrative.

Aside from the relationships, the music is also of high importance as the mixing of choral and pop-punk songs fulfils the 90’s backdrop, mimicking the two sides of the girls – the Catholic angels and the rebellious teenagers.

With the film only focusing on the 24-hour adventure to and back from Edinburgh, it is surprising to see just how much mischief a group of Catholic girls can get into. By the end of the film, the girls had explored their sexualities, lost their virginity, manipulated and been manipulated by men and consumed many alcoholic drinks all before their competition slot at 5 pm.

Adapted from Alan Warner’s novel The Sopranos, which has also been curated into a stage performance by Lee Hall, Caton-Jones did not disappoint in creating a girl power coming-of-age film that is a must-watch when it appears on general release.

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THE FOUNDER November 2019

Portrait of a Lady on Fire [REVIEW] Modern-day issues set against a backdrop of 18th century France

A still from the film JONAS LEŠKEVIČIUS

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welve years after her debut Water Lilies, Celine Sciamma unveils her latest offering, historical drama Portrait of a Lady on Fire. The story follows painter Marianne (Noémie Merlant) and her subject Héloïse (Adèle Haenel).

A love story between two women set against a backdrop of 18th century France may

sound contradictory yet, unsurprisingly, Sciamma triumphantly foregrounds feminist issues and openly discusses subjects of abortion and menstruation – issues that Sciamma herself states ‘were never represented in [the] art of that time’. In Girlhood (2014) Sciamma debates the place of patriarchy within French society and the effect it has on women, especially women of colour. Men’s

place and the dominance they hold within that society is openly criticised throughout the film as they are often shown in groups, hiding in the shadows late at night, with their eyes set on passersby. Likewise, in Portrait of a Lady on Fire, the place of men within society is perhaps more implicitly critiqued as there is an obvious lack of male characters within the film. Sciamma instead

chooses to focus on the beautiful love story between two women unbothered by the presence of men. The beauty of their relationship is emphasized by Marianne’s gaze as she studies Héloïse’s face; taking in every detail and every inch of her skin before putting it on a canvas that will soon be presented to Héloise’s husband-to-be.

Sciamma utilises close-ups and tight framing to embody the characters’ longing looks at each other, the romantic tension rising with every glance. When the women stand at the top of the rocky cliffs of Brittany, upon their first meeting, Sciamma reveals Héloise’s elegant blonde curls, that were previously hidden under a dark cloak. As Marianne’s gaze meets Héloise’s, it becomes obvious that the characters will fall in love with each other, even if they do not yet know it themselves. The idea that this love will ultimately come to

an end looms over the film’s entirety, as Héloïse will eventually set off to marry a man that she has never met, once the portrait is complete.

The day of their eventual part looms, and we are left with hopeless wonder. What if the circumstances of their romance were different?

What if Héloise didn’t have a man waiting for her hand in marriage? What if the love between two women suddenly became acceptable and they continued to live a beautiful life together in the scenic French countryside?

These questions are left unanswered as Sciamma presents her audience with pure reality, well aware that the world was not yet ready for love like Mariane and Héloise’s. All we’re left with is an enchanting love story in a single-minded world, forever ingrained in the world of cinema.

The film comes out in the UK on 28 February 2020.

I Lost My Body [REVIEW]

A Gripping Exploration of Time and Nostalgia GRACIELA MAE CHICO

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rench animated film I Lost My Body is both literal and unmeasurably imaginative in its exploration of losing one's purpose and place in life. Twentysomething Naoufel is a struggling pizza boy in Paris.

He despises his job but strives to succeed at it as he was left orphaned by a heartbreaking tragedy - the vital narrative

point is revealed slyly throughout the film using flashbacks. One of the few clichés in the film, what fuels the dispirited young man to change his life’s trajectory is the introduction of love interest, Gabrielle.

The title comes to life near the third act, the reasoning behind Naoufel’s hand being severed is revealed, but the hand belonging to him is

never bewildering due to the matching of juxtaposing scenes (Naoufel’s depressing present and his dreamy childhood and its tragic crumbling).

It sounds condescending to say, but the fact that the film can omit such reactions from audiences - our irks when the hand battles the rats in the subway, Naoufel’s fingers feeling the breeze during a

childhood car ride – without the use of facial expressions or other characters is truly impressive. Clapin is truly a promising new voice in cinema; he manages to explore lost and the passing of time in such innovative, yet nostalgic ways. After winning the Nespresso Grand Prize at this year’s International Critics Week at the Cannes Film Festival,

Jérémy Clapin’s feature debut has secured distribution rights with the streaming juggernaut, Netflix. I Lost My Body is undoubtedly one of the most original films of the decade; pushing and reinventing the boundaries and capabilities of animated films.

The film will be streaming on Netflix from 22 November 2019.

THE FOUNDER November 2019

ARTS: MUSIC 23

Ten Songs that Defined the 2010’s: How Michael Bublé A Review of the Decade Won Christmas TAU NELL

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he 2010’s have been a hectic period for music. In an age where anyone with talent, a laptop, and a microphone can achieve overnight celebrity, established artists are going all out to maintain their positions at the top. The ensuing creative chaos resulting in what is now recognised as the sound of the 2010’s. Below are ten songs which, to this author, epitomise each year of the decade.

2010: Teenage Dream Katy Perry The beginning of the teenage decade was aptly kickstarted by this optimistic anthem. Many will remember donning their finest high-top Converse and tearing up the dance floor as this ballad boomed, anticipating teenage hijinks to come.

2011: Rolling in the Deep Adele Nobody was ready for Adele’s commanding voice and assertive attitude when this hit stormed into the charts. In a world captivated by royal weddings and viral videos (remember Friday?), Adele’s authenticity inspired UK pride as the Olympics approached.

2012: Call Me Maybe Carly Rae Jepsen Switch on any radio in 2012 and you’d be greeted by Jepsen’s orchestra-infused love letter. The song’s narrative of youthful crushat-first-sight romance was something everybody could relate to in those early Instagram days.

2013: Gangnam Style PSY For a moment, it seemed everyone forgot about their troubles and gave in to the infectious hip-thrusting beats of this K-pop banger.

Amazing how a song nobody understood united us all in cringe-worthy dance!

2014: All About That Bass Meghan Trainor This doo-wop ditty was a game changer for the body positivity movement. After 2013’s twerking backlash, some self-love was definitely in order. Kim Kardashian certainly channelled Trainor when she ‘broke the internet’ later this year!

2015: Uptown Funk Bruno Mars Uptown Funk truly stole the show in 2015, snatching number one spots in over 30 nations. The old-school track’s carefree vibe allowed us to laugh along with pop culture fiascos like ‘Left Shark’ and ‘The Dress’.

2016: Cheap Thrills - Sia Many unfortunate episodes occurred this year: myriad celebrity deaths, the ‘Harambe’ incident, and ‘killer clown’ sightings among them. Sia’s toetapping, head-bouncing single provided an escape hosting an imaginary party that everybody was invited to.

2017: Despacito - Luis Fonsi, Daddy Yankee, & Justin Bieber Few years have songs which absolutely encapsulate them, but 2017 was one of these.

Despacito had the entire globe mumbling along to its sundrenched rhythm whatever the weather, grudgingly adored by the fidget-spinnerobsessed masses.

2018: Thank U, Next Ariana Grande Although this dreamy composition only breezed in at the tail end of the year, it’s safe to say it overshadowed any competition - for good reasons. Grande’s words gave fans hope for the future and failsafe Instagram captions!

2019: Bad Guy - Billie Eilish What better way to round off the teenage decade than with Gen Z prodigy Billie Eilish?

This track, with its thumping bass line and sharp lyrics, offers an exciting preview of things to come in the decade ahead.

AMELIA MORRIS

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ichael Bublé: the Canadian crooner we all love to hate, but still play at Christmas parties every single year, without fail.

Mums fancy him, dads want to be him and he is undeniably entangled with the festive period. Every year, other artists try to knock him from his bauble-adorned pedestal but we always go back to him, again and again.

Maybe it’s his good guy persona, or his melted chocolatey voice. Maybe his friendly-but-suave looks or his charmingly Canadian pronunciation(‘Once a-more’). But the fact remains that Michael Bublé has eleven full length albums but the only one that the average person knows is his 2011 Christmas (Deluxe Special Edition).

Part of the attraction surely goes to his Sinatraesque vocals with fantastic production and orchestration that makes the familiar songs seem classic. Possibly with the exception of Track 7, Santa Baby, where Bublé sings ‘Santa Buddy… I’ll wait up for you dude’ through

Image source: Flickr

gritted teeth, swapping the feminine gifts of the original with money, cars and watches. The joyous strings of ‘It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas’ open the album perfectly and the wonderful orchestration continues throughout.

The Sinatra influence is especially clear on ‘I’ll Be Home for Christmas’, his version being one of the most well-known.

The only truly original song on the album is Track 12, ‘Cold December Night’ which blends well with the other tracks, ranging from traditional (Silent Night) to contemporary (All I Want for Christmas is You).

Despite popular belief, Michael Bublé’s is not the only Christmas album from recent years, Leslie Odom Jr’s Simply Christmas is a short but satisfying jazz- influenced take on Christmas classics with an Ave Maria to rival Bublé’s.

Tom Chaplin, lead singer of Keane, released Twelve Tales of Christmas in 2017 with festive originals such as ‘Under a Million Lights’ and atmospheric covers like ‘2000 miles’.

24 ARTS: MUSIC

THE FOUNDER November 2019

Simon Cowell: “Now, it’s time for UK-Pop” RENÉE LEWIS

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n the 5th of November, Simon Cowell took to Twitter to announce his latest talent show X Factor: The Band in the search for the next girl/boy band, set to air in December. The show comes after the axing of X Factor: All Stars, which would have seen previous successes of the competition battle it out. Cowell has said that X Factor: The Band is set to rival Little Mix’s upcoming BBC talent show The Search.

After the worldwide success of One Direction, Fifth Harmony and Little

Mix – all formed during their time on the X Factor, it is clear that Cowell wants to re-dominate the chart industry.

However, his closing statement: “Right now, you could argue that K-Pop is ruling the world.

Now it’s time for ‘UK-Pop,’” has left K-Pop stans fuming and somewhat confused.

What exactly would ‘UKPop’ look like? Is Cowell looking for British-Korean singers to form a group?

Will they be of diverse ethnicities and nationalities?

As K-Pop is essentially the production and performance of pop music in Korean, what language will they be

singing in? By singing in English, it would just be preexisting pop music. Perhaps Cowell will have contestants learn and perform extensive choreographies.

K-Pop has become immensely popular in the Western popular music world, with the likes of BTS, BLACKPINK and NCT 127 being at the forefront.

However, it appears to me that the Western music industry is responding to this dominance as though it is a threat. Earlier this month, the BRIT Awards announced major changes to their 2020 show, including the removal of fan voted

awards and the scrapping of the Best International Group award. However, awards for Best International Male and Female Soloist still stand – could this be to prevent BTS winning?

Personally, Cowell’s statement that his newly formed band will completely overtake the K- Pop industry is problematic, especially because he appears to be undermining the K-Pop industry. Trainees in Korea undergo long periods of time, sometimes years, after auditioning to develop and perfect their singing or rapping and dancing, at which point they may not

even debut. BTS, now the biggest boyband in the world, did not achieve their success overnight and only started gaining worldwide recognition in 2016, 3 years after their debut. It seems that Cowell believes that he can pull all of this off within a matter of months, but he may find this extremely difficult to replicate. BTS’ success has not only been down to their music, but to the members’ evident love for each other and how they interact with fans on various media platforms.

Will Cowell’s aspirations be successful? Only time will tell.

A Belated Appreciation of Charly Bliss KEREN TOMASOA

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napologetically hyper-feminine power pop group Charly Bliss returned to the UK with their critically acclaimed sophomore album Young Enough. Our music editor was lucky enough to be able to arrange an interview with them: Q: Charly Bliss seems to have a definitively feminine sound in a very male industry. How does the band consistently keep this?

A: I think that’s just a product of the fact that I’m a woman and I write the lyrics and sing the songs!

Q: What are each members’ favourite lyrics off of ‘Young Enough’?

A: “Now every day I thank the moon and stars that I was born a girl.” (Bleach) – Dan ”You were still just a kid, you’re a beautiful boy, crushing cigarettes just to prove a point.” (Young Enough) – Sam “Remember all the plastic proof? How I punished me for you? Mirror over everything, sometimes you feel nothing.”

(Hurt Me) – Spencer “Bite the hand that feeds the boy, he’s beautiful and I’m annoyed.” (The Truth) - Eva

Q: NPR’s ‘Tiny Desk Concert Series’ showcases intimacy and a quiet concentration from the audience that gigs sometimes lack. How was the overall experience?

Would you do it again?

A: It was really special to go back to the songs from Young Enough and rework them to be more stripped down and vulnerable.

Personally, it was a really cool moment that forced me to evaluate how much has happened since we recorded the album, which aspects of the lyrics still resonated with me and which lyrics had sort of taken on new meaning. My brother Sam had such a strong vision for

how we would incorporate the strings into the set, and I feel like it couldn’t have worked out better! I think most artists only get to do tiny desk once, but since we enjoyed the process so much, I could definitely see us doing alternative arrangements of our songs in the future just for ourselves or for other sessions.

Superorganism, and Taylor Swift while we made Young Enough, so I suppose you can hear how that affected the record. Even though Guppy leans more heavily on guitar and straight-up rock, we still think of those songs as being very catchy and poporiented, so it didn’t feel like a big shift for us. More like a logical progression.

Q: ‘Young Enough’ angles itself more towards power pop than the grungy sounds of ‘Guppy’. Was there any particular reason for this shift in genre?

A: I think it just felt really natural to us because we all listen to pop music. We were listening to lots of Lorde,

Q: Lastly, what are the band’s thoughts on touring in the UK? A: We are so excited! We love the UK so much and feel so lucky to be coming back! Our show at The Garage in May was one of the best nights of our lives, so we are extremely psyched to do it all again.

ARTS: MUSIC 25

THE FOUNDER November 2019

Slash Fiction For Matt review

Kanye West – JESUS IS KING (Album Review) GUY PEARCE

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ollowing up on a rather successful 2018 with his production on records by Pusha T, Teyana Taylor and NAS, as well as releasing ‘Ye’ and ‘KIDS SEE GHOSTS’, Kanye West has returned with his highly anticipated ninth studio album ‘Jesus is King’.

Image source: Bandcamp YUJI AOYAMA

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here’s a special, raw kind of sadness that underlies queer music. The struggle of acceptance and self-acceptance lends itself to a powerfully emotional sound that reflects what it means to feel ostracised and alone. For Slash Fiction, their reality is no different; having put out their first EP 'Flowers'; in 2018, this South Yorkshire band have immortalised dysphoric pains and the fight for happiness in a small, uncomfortable world through a headbangingly yearning, soulful emo/punk sound.

Having had the chance to preview their latest single, I can confidently say their music has continued spiralling into another

beautiful display of grieving.

'For Matt' is a sorrowful but exhilarating five-minute track that memorializes a loved one in music that even now seems to echo in abandoned buildings and forgotten ghost towns. The vocals seem like a call to the instrumentals that finds themselves firmly rooted in the American Midwest, and yet grow out of it with a heavenly splendour as one might find on a seminal postrock record. On the flip side, the Gordian Stimm Mix falls upon the listener like a hazy vision glimpsed from the window of a train, piercing through a gloom like an early morning fog to shatter against your heart. Evoking the sounds of cult darlings like nouns, these tracks are most certainly worth contemplating and freely available at slashfiction. bandcamp.com.

Kanye projected that his next album would be titled ‘Yandhi’ and that ‘Watch the Throne 2’ would be coming soon, along with a third collaborative album. Yandhi was originally set to be released on September 29th 2018, but was postponed to November 23rd 2018 before what seems to have been postponed indefinitely. This made Kanye’s change of direction to Gospel with Jesus is King even more surprising having announced a number of projects before striving to create this record.

down to Kanye’s ego making it difficult for him to focus on the topic of Christianity without making it about himself. A perfect example of this is the track ‘Hands On’, where Kanye brings up the topic of hypocrisy and the criticism he has faced from the public for making a Gospel album. He mentions how Christians are judging his transition however fails to acknowledge that they may be sceptical given his past controversies, and he makes this even more ironic when he brings up the topic of hypocrisy as Kanye is no stranger to hypocrisy.

The public can be unfairly critical towards Kanye; however, it appears he is using this as an excuse to create the image that Kanye is against the world and his lonesome journey towards God. This is demonstrated perfectly on the second track ‘Selah’, where Kanye creates parallels between himself and the treatment and betrayal of Jesus Christ – some may argue that this is an exercise in vanity.

Jesus is King was released 17 hours behind schedule – and based on its mixed reviews, some would say it felt rushed and thrown together.

The 27-minute album has These examples pinpoint little depth compared to its the lowlight of the record predecessors and fluctuates which arguably is its in concept. This could be lyricism.

However, the

record’s instrumentals are enjoyable, the production is incredible, and the Sunday Service Choir sounds amazing. For example, ‘Use This Gospel’ has strong instrumentals, before ending with a powerful saxophone solo as well as featuring the momentous reunion of Clipse. The opening track, ‘Every Hour’ is extremely energetic and the Sunday Service Choir’s grand performance is an exciting way to start the album.

The third track ‘Follow God’ includes an excellent sampling of Seventies soul songs which work well with Kanye’s vocals. This energy filters out as the album progresses, with the latter half of the album including much slower songs such as ‘God Is’.

Overall, Jesus is King has its impressive moments which has been shown through its monopolisation of the Top 10 on two Billboard Christian song charts. However, it offers little to hold onto and is subsequently forgettable.

Kanye struggles to find a clear concept through his lyricism and it will be interesting to see whether this record can withstand the test of time.

26 SPORTS

THE FOUNDER November 2019

Premier League Women’s Net-Athon! to Change VAR DOMINIC TAYLOR

mental health problems and

n Sunday 8th December, Royal Holloway’s Netball team will be meeting on the MY Tennis Courts to perform in a Net-Athon. This will consist of playing netball consecutively for 8 hours all for a fantastic cause.

The charity the girls have chosen to champion is

with personal experience of

O

P

remier League fans inside stadiums will get more detailed information about VAR checks starting from December. The decision was agreed by the Premier League and the PGMOL, the referees' association, at Thursday's stakeholder meeting.

During one of the longest Premier League shareholders meetings in recent years, referees boss Mike Riley spoke for more than an hour, admitting that the league had to improve the consistency and speed of decisions along with the communication to fans after 12 weeks of VAR. In recent weeks, Mike Riley has conceded numerous times to the media that VAR needed to ‘improve’. He then faced a 50-minute grilling from representatives of all 20 Premier League clubs, who raised a host of concerns about the technology and its use.

The Premier League will commission Hawkeye, who provide the in-stadia updates, to offer more written information on screens so fans know what incidents are being considered by VARs at Stockley Park. For instance, under the new guidelines a message will appear on the big screens saying: 'Checking Penalty - Possible Handball',

AMY DAVIES AND DOMINIC TAYLOR

Logo source: Wikimedia.org

rather than just, 'Checking Penalty'.

The Premier League will continue to show definitive video clips for all overturned decisions, but is not allowed to show video until the VAR has made a decision.

Despite significant opposition from a number of clubs the Premier League chiefs dismissed calls to use the controversial pitch side monitors more often, believing that a major change of policy midseason would affect the integrity of the competition.

There had been calls for onfield officials to refer to the monitors more regularly, like in the 2018 World Cup in Russia but the league said: ‘it would be reserved for unseen incidents, or when information from the VAR is outside the expectation range of the referee’. The statement added: ‘Ensuring the pace and tempo of

Premier League football remains an important focus for clubs’.

It is understood opinions were mixed from the clubs, with some suggesting they were ‘baffled’ by how VAR is being used; while other clubs remain supportive of the technology they believe is here to stay.

It is also understood that Riley emphasised that the number of correct decisions in Key Match Incidents has risen from 82 percent to 91 percent in the last three months and promised that research will now take place with fans and clubs to understand their views on how VAR can be improved.

This statistic has been contested by many teams, however, who feel they have been unfairly treated by VAR. Sheffield United and Arsenal, for example, have lost the most points from VAR mistakes this season.

Sport in Mind.

Sport in Mind is an independent mental health charity (unaffiliated to Mind and not part of the Mind network) founded in neighbouring Berkshire in 2010. Sport in Mind has a simple mission: “To improve the lives of peoples experiencing mental health problems through sport and physical activity”.

Sport in Mind is the UK’s leading mental health sports charity and deliver physical activity projects in partnership with the NHS in order to promote mental wellbeing, improve physical health, combat social isolation and empower people to move their lives forward in a positive direction. The charity has supported over 10,000 people experiencing

are co-designed by people mental health problems and healthcare professionals.

Amy Davies of the Netball team comments: “Netball has chosen to support the charity Sport in Mind as it helps people all over who struggle with mental health. Sport is an amazing way to reduce anxiety and mental health can affect every one of us, so it is such as an important cause to raise money and awareness for!”

No one can possibly argue against Amy here. So please, if you are free or have any spare change you can spare, come along to the MY tennis courts on the 8 th December.

It will be freezing cold and the girls will need all the encouragement possible! It is, of course, worth noting Christmas is right around the corner and it is the time for giving. (Plus, Santa is making a list, he’s checking it twice, he’s gonna find out who’s naughty or nice – supporting this incredible event will go far in getting you on the nice list). More information can be found about Sport in Mind at: https://www.sportinmind.org/

SPORTS 27

THE FOUNDER November 2019

The Hundred Birmingham received Chris Woakes, Moeen Ali and ith the countdown youngster Pat Brown. Spirit for the ‘Hundred’ brought in Rory Burns, Eoin draft fast-approaching, The Morgan and youngster Dan Founder analyses the teams Lawrence. Manchester have who will be competing in got Saqib Mahmood and Matt the revolutionary tournament Parkinson in addition to the and who has already been world class Jos Buttler. The selected.

Superchargers got the cream There will be eight teams of the crop in World Cup for the new competitions and Ashes hero Ben Stokes. beginning next summer. They Moreover, they signed Adil are Birmingham Phoenix, Rashid and David Willey.

Oval Invincibles, London The Oval-side have signed Spirit, Trent Rockets, Welsh the Curran brothers as well Fire, Manchester Originals, as Jason Roy. Southern Brave Northern Superchargers and consist of Sussex duo Archer Southern Brave. The format and Jordan plus Hampshire’s of the tournament will play Vince. The Rockets have each other in a game – 100 signed Joe Root, Harry Gurney balls in each innings. and Alex Hales. Welsh Fire The England international acquired Jonny Bairstow, Tom players were drafted first. Banton and Colin Ingram.

DOMINIC TAYLOR

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The Draft, which occurred on Sunday 20 th October, saw some blockbuster names drawn.

The first name to be picked was Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan who will play for the Trent Rockets. Their other £125,000 signing was Australia’s Short. The Brave’s two big money signings were superstars Andre Russell and David Warner. What’s more, the Superchargers went for Aaron Finch and Mujeeb Ur Rahman; Welsh Fire acquired Australian duo Mitchell Starc and Steve Smith; the Invincibles bought Sunil Narine; Manchester signed Vilas and Imran Tahir; Spirit drafted Glenn Maxwell

and Mohammad Nabi; and the Pheonix brought in Liam Livingstone. Other distinguishable names pulled out were New Zealand’s Kane Willliamson going to the Pheonix; Mohammad Amir going to London; the Brave signing Sussex bowling duo Chris Jordan and Tymal Mills; and Dawid Malan signing for the Rockets.

In addition to some of the big names to be drawn, there were also some up-andcoming talents from around the county scene. Tom Helm of the Pheonix; London’s Mason Crane; Manchester’s Phil Salt; the Brave’s pair of George Garton and Delray Rawlins; and the aforementioned names are definitely ones to watch out for.

Along with the acquisitions there were some noticeable names who missed out. Chris Gayle, Lasith Malinga and Dwayne Bravo are just a few examples.

In an effort to attract more families to cricket, the competition will be played in the school summer holidays – from 17 July to 16 August, 2020. Many of the sides will offer incentives to families and schoolchildren.

Teams will play each other once, apart from their ‘rivals’, whom they will meet twice. The top three finishers will then meet at Finals Day (top team qualifies for the final;second and third best placed teams will meet in a semi-final).

RHUL Women’s Sport ELIOT RAMAN JONES

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o far this season, each of the women’s sides have put in some fantastic performances and results.

As we move beyond the halfway point of first team, the Founder analyses some of the standout performances and results so far and why this is only the start from the women’s sides.

We start off,

understandably so, with the Women’s Football sides. The firsts have been in illustrious form thus far this season. In 6 fixtures, they have recorded 13-0 and 6-0 victories over UCL; an 8-1 win over RUMS; a 17-0 win over Middlesex; and a 19-0 victory over Goldsmiths. Even in their only defeat of the season the girls put in a performance to be proud of. Despite being 3-0 down inside 20 minutes and

being reduced to 8 players due to illness and injury, the girls soldiered on. They eventually lost the game 3-1 but the experience and battle will be invaluable for the ongoing season.

With an average of 10.67 goals for a game and 0.67 goals against, trophies must surely be in the sights of this team of extremely talented individuals.

Another high point for

women’s sport this term has been the Women’s Rugby side. The girls have put in some stellar performances and have often not got their just rewards. However, against a Surrey side – boasting many contracted players – the girls held their own and then some.

They fought for a hard earned 17-17 draw. After such a fine affair, the Varsity game later on in the university calendar is nicely poised. More recently,

the side managed to storm to a 19-5 win over KCL despite numerous injuries.

In other sports, the Tennis Women’s 1 st team secured a win against Reading while the Netball 1st team managed to edge past a difficult Brighton team 41-40. Squash Women’s 1 st got the psychological edge ahead of Varsity rivals Surrey in a 3-1 win at home, setting up a nice fixture in March.