Childhood summers spent in my grandparents’ village home cultivated an appreciation for the sense of belonging that only certain places can evoke. In a way, I was not so different from the British royal family who cherished their retreat at Osborne House on the Isle of Wight.
Eltham Palace: Where art deco splendor marries the past and future
My passion for Art Deco, a style that epitomises the glamour and innovation of the early 20th century, has always been intertwined with a deep respect for historic architecture—the older, the better. I was intrigued by how Art Deco evoked echoes of past historical styles, pushing design into a futuristic realm. This blend of eras drew me to Eltham Palace, where the medieval grandeur meets the sleek lines of Art Deco.
Echoes across time: My journey with Stonehenge and AI artistry
My fascination with Stonehenge began in childhood as I pored over pictures and stories about this enigmatic structure in old books in the attic. The image of magnificent stones against the backdrop of the English countryside has been embedded in my imagination ever since.
Wicked: When the magic runs dry
After a string of great shows, I finally hit one I truly hated: Wicked. Maybe I’ve lost touch with my inner child, or maybe the production has simply run out of steam. Either way, it was a slog.
Witness for the Prosecution: From council debates to courtroom drama
Apparently, I have a thing for Agatha Christie’s plays. After The Mousetrap, I ventured further into her repertoire and saw Witness for the Prosecution. While it’s undeniably gripping, I’d say this one has aged less gracefully—especially the overly melodramatic ending.
The Book of Mormon: Hallelujah, it’s hilarious
A comedy about religion? And a musical? Of course, I couldn’t resist. The Book of Mormon isn’t your grandma’s idea of an evening at the theatre—unless she has a surprising tolerance for songs about maggots in scrotums.
To Kill a Mockingbird
I recently saw To Kill a Mockingbird on the West End with Matthew Modine as Atticus Finch. The acting was excellent—Modine brought a quiet strength to the role, and the cast delivered across the board.
Best of Enemies
Best of Enemies was one of the most memorable plays I’ve seen. David Harewood and Zachary Quinto were fantastic—two leads I’d admired on TV, and seeing them live was everything I’d hoped for. They delivered spectacular performances as ideological opposites. It felt like watching the very foundation of the modern liberal vs conservative divide being built before your eyes.
Matilda the Musical
I’m no musical theatre expert, but Matilda the Musical? Not bad at all. The kids’ cast carried the show brilliantly, bringing humour and heart without ever overdoing it. The music and lyrics, written by Tim Minchin, were clever and sharp, perfectly capturing the chaos of Roald Dahl’s world.
Speaking of Minchin, it’s a shame he wasn’t on stage himself. After his performances in Californication and Jesus Christ Superstar, you know he’d steal the show—and I bet he could strike a brilliant Matilda pose too.
What impressed me most was how the show appealed to both kids and adults without pandering to either. It’s a children’s performance at heart, but the darker themes and witty lyrics gave it depth for the grown-ups. A solid night out, even for someone who doesn’t usually do musicals.
👍👍
Matilda the Musical
Cambridge Theatre, London
Music & lyrics by Tim Minchin
Book by Dennis Kelly
Based on Matilda by Roald Dahl
Directed by Matthew Warchus
Elia Kabanov is a science writer covering the past, present and future of technology (@metkere).
Illustration by Elia Kabanov feat. Midjourney.
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Back to the Future: The Musical
I didn’t know what to expect from my first-ever musical. Would it be some sort of over-the-top operetta? Or just a regular play with songs awkwardly shoved in? Either way, I’m glad Back to the Future: The Musical was my first. First times are always special, aren’t they?