Month: April 2026

Review: The Talented Mr Ripley

Review: The Talented Mr Ripley

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Photos by Mark Senior.

Step into a world of deception, desire, and deadly ambition.

Tom Ripley is a nobody – until he’s offered an unexpected opportunity: travel to Italy and bring home the wealthy and carefree Dickie Greenleaf. But as Tom is drawn into Dickie’s glittering world of privilege, his obsession takes a dark turn. What begins as an innocent invitation spirals into a web of lies, identity theft. . . and murder.

Set against the sun-drenched backdrop of 1950s Italy, this gripping stage adaptation of The Talented Mr. Ripley brings Patricia Highsmith’s iconic novel to life in a thrilling new production.

Patricia Highsmith’s iconic tale of charm, deceit and dangerous ambition, arrives at the Belgrade Theatre with a sleek, psychologically charged production that grips from the first moment and refuses to let go.

The production wisely avoids caricature, instead presenting Ripley as a man whose desperation to belong curdles into something far darker. The performance is magnetic – quietly intense one moment, chillingly unpredictable the next. It’s a portrayal that keeps the audience leaning forward, searching for the cracks in his carefully constructed façade.

Opposite him, Dickie Greenleaf is rendered with effortless charisma by Bruce Herbelin-Earle, the kind of golden‑boy allure that makes Ripley’s obsession both believable and inevitable. Their dynamic – part admiration, part envy, part possession – drives the production with a taut, simmering energy.

The staging is elegant in its restraint. Clean lines, clever lighting, and fluid scene transitions evoke Italy’s sun‑drenched coast without ever distracting from the psychological drama. The design team uses shadow and silhouette to powerful effect, underscoring the story’s themes of identity, duplicity, and the masks we wear.

The Talented Mr Ripley at the Belgrade Theatre is a stylish, intelligent, and atmospheric adaptation that honours Highsmith’s original while carving out its own theatrical identity. Anchored by a standout central performance from Ed McVey, this is a gripping exploration of ambition, identity and the seductive pull of reinvention.

Maisie Smith, best known for her Eastenders character, provides solid support as Marge Sherwood.

How far would you go to be someone else?

A darkly compelling triumph for the Belgrade, The Talented Mr Ripley plays until Saturday and tickets are available from the box office HERE or call: 024 7655 3055.

Warwickshire’s award-winning ideas festival returns this summer with homegrown talent at its heart

Warwickshire’s award-winning ideas festival returns this summer with homegrown talent at its heart

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ALSO Festival 2026, Compton Verney
Long Table Feast at returns to ALSO.

ALSO Festival announces hundreds more headline speakers and performers for its 13th edition at Compton Verney in Warwickshire, 10-12 July 2026. 

One of the Midlands’ most distinctive summer events is back and bigger than ever. ALSO26 – the unique ideas, music, comedy and wellness festival held at the stunning Park Farm – has announced its full lineup for ALSO26.

Now in its 13th year, ALSO has built a devoted following across the Midlands and beyond, blending headline thinkers, live music, comedy, food and outdoor experiences across a single summer weekend in one of the region’s most beautiful settings.

Saturday night headliners Afriquoi

This year’s theme – Oh Fortuna! – explores luck, science and the role of chance in shaping our lives. Leading the speaker programme is bestselling Wolverhampton author Sathnam Sanghera, bringing his new book about the life of George Michael to the stage.

Political historian Sir Anthony Seldon will deliver a live talk on The Brexit Effect, while award-winning neuroscientist Catherine Loveday and broadcaster Claudia Hammond take on The Psychology of The Traitors.

Stratford-upon-Avon’s own BAFTA-winning animator Greg McLeod joins the programme with a fascinating exploration of creativity and the life and death of ideas.

ALSO26 Festival, Compton Verney
The ALSO stage.

On the music front, ALSO26 welcomes PVA, one of the UK’s most exciting electronic acts, alongside African music and live electronics collective Afriquoi headlining Saturday night.  Other music highlights include:

  • the genre-defying sounds of Sheep, Dog & Wolf (Daniel McBride)
  • soaring indie-rock and gritty, emotionally resonant Northern storytelling from one of Britain’s most compelling new guitar bands The Rosadocs
  • alt-pop songwriting and trip-hop production from Moon Idle
  • psychedelic street punk desert rock from Bones Ate Arfa
  • the Brazilian carnival vibes of Tribo
  • enchanting musical landscapes with One Trick Donkey’s Balkan folk melodies
  • soulful indie artist Purdy Smith blending catchy melodies with honest storytelling that moves and inspires
  • DJ masterclass and introduction to DJing from Neon Pumps
ALSO 2026, Compton Verney
Luke Wright. Photo by Emily Fae.

Comedy highlights include award-winner Esther Manito, joining Mark Thomas, Robin Ince and Elf Lyons.

Wellness highlights include moonlight wild swimming, paddleboard yoga and sound baths on the Capability Brown lake.

Food remains a centrepiece, with Syrian chef Imad Alarnab hosting a special long table feast, alongside River Cottage’s James Whetlor and other guest chefs. Midlands-based artisan food stalls include Water Buffalo Ice Cream from Napton, Draycote-based Red Banger with their fork-to-field ethos and Crafty Boys from Staffordshire who offer artisan coffees and espresso martinis.

ALSO 2026, Compton Verney
Comedian Mark Thomas

Warwickshire’s own Playbox Theatre – one of the region’s most celebrated youth theatre companies – brings high-energy musical theatre Workshops and evening storytelling to ALSO26, giving local families a chance to see a homegrown favourite in a spectacular new setting.

Family-friendly as ever, ALSO26 features theatre, circus skills, storytelling and dedicated activities for children of all ages.  Tickets for ALSO26 as well as all bookable experiences, tastings and workshops are available HERE.

Appeal for increased public support as new women arrive at local safe house

Appeal for increased public support as new women arrive at local safe house

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The Esther Project, Lianne Kirkman, Leamington

A Leamington group that supports vulnerable women in the community is appealing for the public to help it keep pace with increased demands on its services now its safe house is full.

The Esther Project, a gender-specific organisation supporting those who have experienced trauma and adversity, says it needs regular donations following the arrival of three new women to its seven-bed supported living accommodation.

The initiative was established by Lianne Kirkman in 2023 – her mission, to create a nurturing and empowering community where every woman can heal, grow and reach their future potential. It does this through a range of services, including counselling, one-on-one support, creative activities, employability opportunities, and drop-in sessions for women facing mental health challenges, escaping domestic abuse, recovering from addiction, transitioning from prison, or experiencing homelessness.

In December they also opened their doors to a new pre-loved shop and community hub, incorporating a workspace and counselling room, in Gloucester Street.

The Esther Project, Lianne Kirkman, Leamington
Founder and Director Lianne Kirkman

In 2025, The Esther Project supported over 70 women across Warwickshire. Its weekly drop-in saw 343 visits, offering meals, connection, and practical support, while 160 counselling sessions were delivered to help women process trauma and rebuild confidence.

Now, as three more women begin their recovery journey in Esther House, they are appealing to local people to consider becoming regular givers to help fund the products and services that make rebuilding possible. That means food, home essentials, emotional support, and access to counselling – from day one.

Lianne Kirkman said: “When a woman arrives with us, she’s often starting from scratch – emotionally, practically and financially. What she needs most is stability. A bed, a warm meal, someone to talk to, and the reassurance that support won’t disappear overnight.”

“That’s why regular giving is so important to us. It allows us to say ‘yes’ when a woman needs us – not just today, but for the weeks and months ahead as she rebuilds her life.

“With your help today we can cover the immediate support these women so desperately need – and continue showing up for them in the weeks and months ahead. You’ll receive monthly updates on their time with us and how your gift is making a real difference to their lives.”

The Esther Project, Lianne Kirkman, Leamington

Regular donations help fund:

  • Safe accommodation and essential items
  • Weekly meals and support at the drop-in
  • Access to counselling and emotional support
  • Opportunities to rebuild confidence through community and activities

The Esther Project is encouraging local residents to sign up as monthly supporters, to help ensure that no woman is turned away and to fund the essentials that make rebuilding possible. That means food, home essentials, emotional support, and access to counselling – from day one. Sign up for a regular monthly donation HERE.

Lianne added: “Each woman’s journey is different, but consistent support is what enables lasting change. This isn’t about quick fixes, it’s about walking alongside women as they find their footing again – and that takes time, care and community. We simply cannot do it without the generosity of our local supporters. This isn’t about a big one-off donation, it’s about steady, reliable support – at a time when they need it most.”

Women can self-refer themselves to the hub via the link HERE.

The Esther Project, Lianne Kirkman, Leamington
Communal lounge area

Why Does The Esther Project Exist?

Women’s centres matter because the challenges many women face are deeply shaped by gender-specific experiences. Trauma, abuse, exploitation and instability often occur in contexts where mixed-gender environments can feel unsafe or triggering. Dedicated women-only spaces offer safety, dignity and understanding—creating an environment where women feel able to open up, rebuild trust, and access support without fear. This gender-informed approach allows for holistic, trauma-aware services that meet women where they are and help them move toward stability, confidence, and independence.

While women are often less visible on the streets rough sleeping, they actually make up 60% of those who are homeless and in temporary accommodation. In the last 10 years, the number of women in England who are homeless has increased by 88%. The evidence from the latest census, conducted across 41 local authorities, estimates there may be up to nine times as many women rough sleeping across England than the government’s annual rough sleeping snapshot suggests.

The Esther Project, Lianne Kirkman, Leamington

Globally, women are disproportionately affected by poverty, discrimination, inter-personal violence and exploitation. Women have fewer economic assets than men and limited participation in influencing economic and social policies. Women also perform the bulk of childcare and household work and have less access to education and economic opportunities than men in their societies (UN Women, n.d.). Despite some important increases in women’s equality in the 20th Century it is still the case that women in Britain are likely to:

  • Earn less money than men
    • Undertake certain kinds of paid work (e.g. lower paid, personal services)
    • Enjoy less progression at work
    • Have less freedom and leisure than men
    • Spend more time looking after people

For some women and girls these structural factors, combined with gendered life experiences, such as being a victim of violence, lead to extremely difficult lives. Women may be dealing with multiple issues at any one time, such as:

  • Homelessness
    • Involvement in prostitution or sexual exploitation
    • Mental health problems
    • Domestic violence
    • Drug and alcohol problems
    • Contact with the criminal justice system
Lawyer-turned-founder builds digital platform to celebrate disability and carer communities on behalf of her son

Lawyer-turned-founder builds digital platform to celebrate disability and carer communities on behalf of her son

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Blue Badgers, Stephanie Jackson, disability

An entrepreneur and mum of three walked away from a successful corporate career to build a new venture inspired by her experience as a carer for her son.

Stephanie Jackson, from Solihull, has established Blue Badgers, an interactive online platform and app offering rewards and connection for both people with disability and their carers.

The mission is rooted in over thirteen years of lived experience with her eldest son, Ben. As one of only 40 people globally with You-Hoover-Fong Syndrome – a rare genetic condition – Ben’s ability to move, learn, and see the world is profoundly limited. For Stephanie, this meant becoming a lifelong carer as well as a new mum.

Blue Badgers, Stephanie Jackson, disability

But it was some eight years after Ben was born – arriving at full term weighing just 3lbs – that Stephanie and her husband, Mike, finally received a diagnosis. Until that moment, they were one of hundreds of families navigating the limbo of Syndromes Without a Name.

Stephanie reflects that getting those answers was a profound relief, an outcome that wouldn’t have been possible without the 100,000 Genomes Project given how incredibly rare the condition is.

However, the timing was a true test; they were expecting their third child when the news arrived, adding another layer to the “ups and downs” parents face in this unseen world.

Blue Badgers, Stephanie Jackson, disability

Ultimately, Ben’s journey has contributed to a much larger picture. By using the family’s data to develop a new clinical test, geneticists have turned their experience into a permanent advancement in medical science. Ben is now part of a small pool of individuals helping to map the human genome, providing a deeper understanding that will directly benefit other families in the years to come.

She added: “When a child has complex needs and can’t care for themselves, there’s no such thing as an ‘off’ moment. Being a mum is incredibly rewarding, but some days are emotionally exhausting. Life can feel both isolating and relentlessly hectic.”

Across the UK, Stephanie is just one of a silent army of 10.6 million people providing the unpaid care that keeps families and communities running. Many carers balance this work alongside careers, with a significant number providing tens of hours of support each week, including more than 1.5 million people providing 50 or more hours of care each week.  It is a labour of love that carries no protection against burnout.

Blue Badgers, Stephanie Jackson, disability

“This isn’t just a family duty; it is the invisible infrastructure of our health system.” Stephanie explains.

“Without these millions of hands, the social care sector would simply collapse. I reached a point where I needed to channel my professional skills into changing how this community is seen and valued.”

Founded on Ben’s birthday, Blue Badgers seeks to fill a significant gap in the support landscape. While discount schemes exist for students and professional, paid carers, there has been no equivalent of – or recognition for – the millions of unpaid parents, siblings, and friends whose roles are often taken for granted.

She said: “The disability and carer community holds extraordinary strength, resilience and talent. We need to celebrate our differences, show appreciation and share the joy. We want to say thank you by connecting them with businesses that truly value their contribution.”

Blue Badgers, Stephanie Jackson, disability

“Why shouldn’t a carer get a discounted ticket on a respite day? Caring isn’t a part-time role – that role exists 24/7, regardless of whether you are currently standing next to the person you care for.  Unpaid carers give extraordinary amounts of time, energy and compassion without recognition or reward.

Beyond rewards, Blue Badgers is designed with community at its heart. The app features an interactive map, which lets members share and discover accessible, member-friendly businesses and venues tailored to different needs.

The goal is to turn the often-stressful task of planning a day out into something simple, fun, and enjoyable. For just £4.99 a year, members gain access to a movement that prioritises hassle-free fun.

Ultimately, Stephanie, 43, is building more than an app; she is building a community to combat the bleak tone often associated with disability resources.

Blue Badgers, Stephanie Jackson, disability

“Caring can be a very lonely experience, and the energy it takes just to get information or have your voice heard is exhausting,” she says. “I want Blue Badgers to be purposely joyful and celebratory.  The response has been overwhelming – businesses are eager to learn, and families are thrilled to finally have a platform focused on them.”

Reflecting on her journey, Stephanie notes that the seeds for Blue Badgers were sown long ago before Ben came along – volunteering for inclusive residential holidays that bring together disabled and non-disabled children and young people to break down social barriers through adventure and play.

“I loved Birmingham PHAB Camps and my husband Mike came with me on some of those camps too. Looking back, it’s almost like I was always meant to do this.”

The Blue Badgers app is available to download on Google Play now with the iOS version to follow soon.

AMANDA’S MISSIVES: How to beat imposter syndrome!

AMANDA’S MISSIVES: How to beat imposter syndrome!

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For many small business owners, the biggest barrier to growth isn’t funding, competition, or market conditions – it’s the quiet, persistent voice insisting you’re not “legitimate” enough.

The term ‘Imposter Syndrome’ was first coined by psychologists Pauline Clance and Suzanne Imes in 1978. They wrote a paper called ‘The Imposter Phenomenon of High-Achieving Women,’ which was later shortened to the far more catchy “imposter syndrome” we use today.

Running a small business means constantly stepping into new territory: pricing, marketing, finance, leadership, creative direction, customer experience. There’s no handbook, no manager validating your progress, and no guaranteed path. That uncertainty can trigger the irrational belief that you’re “making it up as you go along” or that others are more qualified.

But far from being a ‘fraud,’ understanding these pressures helps you see that imposter syndrome is a disconnect between reality and perception – and, frankly, just a normal response to an extraordinary challenge.

Overcoming imposter syndrome as a small business owner starts with recognising that the doubt you feel is not a reflection of your ability, but in fact a by‑product of building something that matters.

It’s important to remember that expertise isn’t perfection – it’s progress, experience, and the ability to solve problems. Your customers don’t need you to know everything, they need you to know more than they do and to care deeply about the outcome.

And if you’re reading this, that’s clearly already true!

Small business founders carry every role, every decision, every risk – which makes the internal pressure louder than it is for most people. Even the most successful founders occasionally feel the same way. This is why peer conversations are healthy, they can normalise the experience and reduce that sense of isolation.

Unlike employees in larger organisations, small business owners operate without the safety net of a team, a manager, or a clear roadmap.

But it’s all too easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself with your competitors. Don’t forget that they have these teams, budgets and infrastructure behind them. You’re one person, not a corporation. Instead of aiming for fast and flawless execution, it’s absolutely fine to aim for consistent steady improvement. Progress, not perfection, is the metric that matters. A helpful mindset shift is: “Done with care is better than perfect but unfinished.”

Your impact matters more than your job title, qualifications, or follower count. If your work helps someone, solves a problem, or brings joy, you are not an imposter – you are delivering value.

Entrepreneurs often skip straight to the next challenge without acknowledging progress. Whereas celebrating small wins can build momentum and reinforce your capability. You are all too well aware that the stakes are high when your business is your livelihood. Every decision feels amplified – and without performance reviews or promotions, progress can feel invisible. Yet this doesn’t stop your work being open to the public’s scrutiny.

Creating a portfolio space for testimonials, positive messages, press mentions, photos of your work and milestones will go a long way to helping with this. As well as positive marketing, it becomes a powerful antidote to self‑doubt, especially on those difficult days.

At the end of the day, it’s the fact that you care, reflect, and strive to improve which is evidence of competence – not inadequacy. So when someone compliments your work, resist the instinct to minimise it. (It’s often a default for those of us with imposter syndrome.)  A simple “Thank you — I’m proud of it” reinforces a healthier narrative.

Always remember, whatever your size and bottom line – your business exists because you built it. Your clients choose you because you deliver. Your growth is happening because you are capable.

Imposter syndrome doesn’t mean you’re not enough – it means you’re expanding beyond your comfort zone – stepping into new territory. And that’s exactly where small businesses thrive.