Make Leicester furious

The talk began with a prelude of apologies, and an acceptance that everyone in the room had a bone to pick with the Creative Director; Kieran Smith of Love Productions. Now, I hadn't known the great depth of feeling that the controversial documentary, Make Leicester British had sparked in its viewers, but by the end I was well aware. One woman even succumbed to tears in the Q&A. I think the way Kieran gracefully handled the less than warm welcome was admirable, especially when taking into consideration the event was free. 

We were given insight into the work behind the scenes of the documentary, how long it took to create, and in particular how people were chosen. The people who took part in the documentary were chosen as they seemed to have a capacity to change, and, as the reason for Make Leicester British was to "generate debate", "try to change peoples views and help them learn" - this was obviously important. As Kieran put it, he wanted to portray a "journey of understanding", and I think in many ways he and his team did that. 

Though many in attendance disputed almost everything about the documentary, by the end of the talk I could see that this upset had not been Love Production's, and in particular Kieran's intention. A certain amount of controversy comes with such delicate subjects as immigration, racism and the like. And while Channel 4 may have highlighted these aspects in the name of ratings, I believe it's necessary to have a debate on these topics and, if Make Leicester British sparked this, that's a good thing. 

 

Laylah Grewal

For Ducks' Sake

The day started as it usually does - with an almost IV drip of coffee. I had planned to go to three talks during the day, finish and unwind with 'The Image is the Servant II' which boasts a collective of talented musicians, artists, dancers and poets - and a bar, score. To say I was looking forward to this event is an understatement, but alas, I couldn't find it! 

I took a cab to where google maps assured me Hansom Hall was, where the cab driver assured me it would be - it wasn't there! After over an hour of searching I decided to call it a day as it was getting a little dark to be lost in Leicester. Still, I thought, let's do something blog-worthy. So I fed the ducks. 

And let me tell you, as much as I wish I had been able to find the event, (especially after hearing how amazing it was) no time spent feeding ducks is a waste of time. 

(photo by Wouter Engler)

Laylah Grewal

The Philip Mead experience

Going into his piano recital, I have to admit I had never heard Philip Mead and was anticipating something along the lines of Einaudi - classical and expected. Whatever I had anticipated, however, this wasn't it. 

Philip Mead's transcendent tones were almost other-worldly, listening and watching him perform felt a little like falling down a rabbit hole. Though, perhaps falling though the tunnel from the opening credits of Dr. Who would be a more apt description. The performance was further enhanced by the kaleidoscope of visual accompaniments after the brief intermission.  

Regardless of what I had been expecting, Philip Mead blew me away. I think I'm a little in love with anyone who has an extreme passion for something and shares that passion with others, which is exactly what Mead does. Watching him pour out his music in a slightly manic way was beautiful,  and I'm so glad the Cultural Exchanges programme allowed me to experience this. 

Laylah Grewal