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Month: October 2017

30 years queer: the Mancunion centre at the heart of LGBT+ resistance

Written by Kizzy Bray on . Posted in Features, Uncategorised.

Compared to the dim, greying afternoon that Manchester’s spitting skies offer outdoors, The Proud Trust centre is bright and inviting; turquoise painted walls wear multi-coloured posters and murals, tables and chairs are positioned all around the room in wait for the in-built cafe’s customers, and a welcome sign next to the door invites — at length — anyone of any orientation, gender, race, or faith to come through the doors. You would never guess the rainbow-themed interior from the outside, almost like a secret, until you find yourself transported into this quirky, fun, and safe space that is a second home for many that frequent it.

The Proud Trust is one of the only one’s of its kind. It was the first purpose-built LGBT+ centre in Europe and, due to being council owned, The Proud Trust has managed to keep going where similar centres have had to be closed down due to funding issues on private tenancies.

The idea for the centre started in the seventies and our very own university (the then Victoria University of Manchester) had a big hand in helping the centre at the grassroots of the project. “Lots of people who fought for LGBT equality had phone lines and campaigns from their own houses,” Dr. Ali Hanbury, the centre manager informs me. “As things were progressing the university actually gave them some space on Waterloo Place, just opposite where the tin can building is now.” There they could conduct meetings, focus groups and organise protests and campaigns for their rights, which, at the time mainly focused on gay and lesbian issues. “As the project expanded they started looking for more space, they got another basement on Bloom Street on what is now the village. It wasn’t the village back then, it was mainly run down, old, industrial buildings, a few bars, but it was quite rough. There was street prostitution, raids on the bars that did exist, it was all very behind closed doors.”

The initial building of the centre itself came up against a host of issues, all stemming from openly allowed discrimination against LGBT+ people under the government of Thatcher. “The local council were keen to support the centre,” Ali tells me, however it was private landlords they faced problems with. “The law back then didn’t protect LGBT people. It was perfectly fine for the landlord we approached to say that he wasn’t selling his building to gay people.”  With private landlords being able to turn away tenants based on their sexual orientation, the centre fought to be built on council owned land, in which they succeeded. The building plans that took place in the mid to late eighties, however were then protested against by a local church. Because these disagreements were based entirely on what the building would be used for, rather than the actual building itself, the plans still went ahead, and the centre, being the first of its kind, opened up to the public in November 1988.

Photo: Ali Hanbury (front left)

Around the same time, James Anderton, the chief of police in Manchester, made some wildly homophobic comments about the HIV/AIDS crisis. “He was being really abhorrent. Thatcher at the time saved him from losing his job and then introduced section 28 to say that no local authority could promote homosexuality,” Ali tells us. In response to this public and powerful hatred, Manchester hosted the “Never Going Underground” march in 1988, the UK’s largest ever gathering for LGBT+ rights of the time.  By the November of the same year the centre was open and they hosted a grand opening party to celebrate the success.

“Manchester was at the forefront of a lot of LGBT campaigning and activism,” Ali states. “We still have really strong and supportive links through the university. We’ve got about fifteen groups that meet here, alcoholic recovery groups, a BME project called Rainbow Noir; we also have an office for the lesbian immigration support group as well as an inter-faith group. We even had an LGBT disabled pride here over the pride season!” Clearly people from all different walks of life are engaged with what the centre has to offer. For many it’s a source of hope when they have no-one else to turn to. Kept away from the village itself, the centre runs little risk of publicly outing those who aren’t out yet and are perhaps struggling with the process.

“We’re quite unique for a LGBT charity” Ali admits. “We have a lot of women staff, BME, disabled, and trans members of staff. That’s not always reflected in other LGBT organisations.” This range of diversity means that those who come to the centre seeking support are likely to find someone to talk to who has had similar experiences and offer some empathy. “We have dedicated projects such as lesbian and bisexual groups as well as young men and one-to-one trans workers as well as a trans youth group.” Being able to openly talk to young people about the way they are feeling and what understandings around sexual orientations as well as gender identities are is something the centre aims to tackle. The centre just released a book aimed at primary school children called “Alien Nation” which discusses gender identity and has been received really well.  “We have quite an extensive training program where we work with professionals who may be in contact with LGBT children such as children. We’ve even given talks at the university to nursing and medical students.”

Photo: Ali Hanbury

Ali and I discussed whether the national curriculum is failing LGBT+ youth in schools by not representing them enough. “I think the issue is that a lot of schools would deny that they do have problems with homophobia, biphobia, or transphobia,” Ali tells me. “However what we do know is that there is a massively heteronormative and cis-gendered script that schools enforce in their curriculum. By only including LGBT discussion in sexual health lessons it hyper-sexualises it, that’s really problematic. If in English lessons we spoke about how Shakespeare had same sex relationships, that would be useful. We have just been government funded to work with the education system to run a project called the rainbow flag award. We are working with around 270 schools to take a whole school approach to LGBT education. We look at cross-curriculum stuff, school uniform policies and major school policies.”

To celebrate the thirtieth anniversary of the centre’s opening next November, The Proud Trust are hosting a very exciting array of celebrations over the next 12 months, entitled ’30 Years Queer’, kicking off on the 30th November this year. “It’s all about raising the profile of the centre and celebrating all our great work and the fact that we are still here!” Ali exclaims. “The centre has been under threat through its history and people campaigned to keep it open, so it’s important that we still get to be here.” The celebrations will include different fundraising events, as the centre is hopeful to increase in size. People are taking part in half-marathons and round-the-world bike rides, there will be parties and nights out hosted by ‘Shit Lesbian Disco’, of course there will be Pride in the summer, a walking history tour of the city connected to the centre, and even a street party on the actual 30th anniversary next year, as well as an after party.

30 Years Queer celebrates everything that the centre has faced and stood up for, all the discrimination and pride its history entails, all the struggles its members have fought against, and everything it still seeks to change now. With such a brilliant range of diversity and challenges it’s tackling, the centre is an extremely necessary part of the Mancunian cityscape and has always been. Manchester has been at the forefront of LGBT issues and rights in the UK for decades and to celebrate this and make sure this doesn’t change, we need to protect and support organisations like The Proud Trust. Whether you wish to volunteer at the centre’s cafe, fund-raise for them, or simply learn more about the centre, you can find the group on Facebook, visit their website, ring on 0161 2220766, follow their twitter, or send Ali an email at [email protected]. If you would simply like to make a donation, you can do so at www.localgiving.org/donation/theproudtrust.

Halloween in Manchester 2017

Written by Hannah Brierley on . Posted in Music.

This time each year, the spooky in us comes out to play, and with it, an excuse to dress up and celebrate all things weirdly wonderful and slightly crazy. Whilst there’s always something fun to do in Manchester, Halloween brings a whole new array of special events to celebrate. Here’s a quick rundown of some of the spook-tacular things that are happening around the city:

Tim Burton Special @ The Bread Shed (27th October)

It can be confidently said that Tim Burton is the king of Halloween, so why not go down to The Bread Shed and pay homage to the pumpkin king himself. The night will be filled with all that is pop-punk playing the likes of My Chemical Romance, Bless The Fall, Blink 182, You Me At Six, Bring Me The Horizon, Don Broco, and Parkway Drive. Release your inner emo-teen and sing your heart out.

Photo: @Flickr Bryan Rosengrant

Stranger Things Special @ The Ruby Lounge (24th October)

Based on the incredible 80s  Netflix TV series, Stranger Things. Sound-tracked strictly by vinyl records featured in and inspired by the show.

On the night expect to hear all of the tracks from the show by The Clash, Toto, Joy Division, Foreigner, Modern English, Corey Hart, The Bangles and Jefferson Airplane — plus the likes of The Smiths, The Cure, David Bowie, New Order, Talking Heads, A Flock Of Seagulls, Depeche Mode, Soft Cell, Blondie, The Undertones, The Human League, Iggy Pop, The Specials, The Jam and many more.

If dressing up like a Demogorgon or as Eleven, this is the place to go for all you fanatics.

Photos: Wiki Commons

 

ANTS Halloween Takeover @ Warehouse Project (28th October)
Ants follow up previous classic WHP shindigs with a Halloween takeover. Berliner Paul Kalkbrennerheadlines – and who better to provide the drama and excitement of a Halloween show than a DJ who is renowned for his live show, where his emotive techno tracks and pulled apart then restructured into entirely new forms. He’s joined by Ants stalwarts Groove Armada, whose typically crowd-pleasing performance at last year’s Ants took the roof off. For more dancefloor thrills, Eli & Fur, Jesse Rose, Route 94, wAFF and a host of others explore the full spectrum of house, from jacking bass bombs to deep, melodic disco.

 

Bongo Bingo Halloween Special with Fatman Scoop @Albert Hall (31st October)

A Halloween special with the bombastic hip-hop icon Fatman Scoop as the exclusive guest. It’s hard to capture the unique mix of everything that happens at Bongo’s Bingo – it’s partly a show, partly a rave, partly a dance-off, and of course an amazing night of bingo as its frantically beating heart.

It’s true that Bongo’s Bingo has to be seen to be believed — the show mixes the traditional elements of bingo with dance-offs, rave intervals, plenty of heckling, audience participation, countless hands-in-the-air anthems and of course the chance to win prizes too, from Henry Hoovers, boxes of Coco Pops and life-size cardboard cutouts, to actual cold hard reams of cash.

Definitely, something that you’ll never have experienced before.

Photo:Jack Kirwin

 

Motherfunkers Fright Night @ Antwerp Mansion (31st October)

If you’re looking for the most authentic Halloween, then really you need to head down to the only place in Manchester which could actually be a part of a horror film. Expect a psychedelic haunted house fused with the very best of funk, soul, disco and Motown tunes from the ’70s to today… We’re talking live music, performers, installations, visuals, disco balls, balloons, bunting, and confetti cannons.

Casa Loco @Impossible Bar (28th October)

The recently opened impossible bar are also joining in on the Halloween fun. The has a hidden gin palace that serves 63 types of gin and has a cryogenic freezer, meaning spirits can be frozen to make edible cocktails. They also have a molecular cocktail laboratory which will have an alcoholic mist condenser and a lickable Champagne bubble machine. Impossible embraces all things weird and wonderful, and their Halloween event will follow suit, and will definitely be hard to forget… depending on how much of the champagne bubble machine you have.

This is a ticket only event, so make sure you buy them before they sell out!

 

 

 

The Black Narrative: A new way of thinking

Written by Raine Beckford on . Posted in Features.

As Black History Month draws to a close, I find myself ruminating on the wider impact of the month and the media focus it has attained. This led me to Keziah Doudy — founder of The Black Narrative, a project she hopes will spark a change in the representation of young black people in the media.

Doudy, a 19 year old Geography student from North London, is enthusiastic and insightful.

Of the project, she tells me “The Black Narrative is an online platform for young black people to document their lives, their own personal stories and their experiences. I started it with the aim of dismantling the negative stereotypes about young black people that are persistent in the media.

“But I also want to encourage people to challenge their perception of what they think blackness is. I wanted to make the point that the black community is not a monolith, there is a lot of diversity within our community and it should be celebrated.”

A relatively new endeavour, she tells me that the project was born of a frustration with Western media.

She says “about 2 or so years ago, there were suddenly a lot of incidents of police brutality where black people were being shot and killed or injured by the police. But every time something like this happened, I noticed that there was an instant attempt by news groups to justify the violence against the victim by demonising them and bringing up negative aspects of their past.

“I don’t think there’s ever a justification for that kind of violence so it was quite frustrating for me to see mainstream media outlets working so hard to turn the victim into the bad guy. It was really a response to that.”

Whilst this problem is most prevalent in America, perhaps a symptom of their outdated gun laws and complicated judicial system, we agreed that things weren’t perfect in the UK either.

Doudy says “I wanted to bring it closer to home and make it more relevant to the UK. There’s a lot of negativity when it comes to black youth and there are a lot of smear campaigns against prominent black people who speak out about these kinds of things. In the UK media there’s a dominant perception of blackness that’s just gangs and violence and a certain way of speaking and a certain way of living. I just wanted to respond to that and to challenge those ideas”.

Ambitiously, she has big ideas for the project.

She tells me “at the moment it’s very London and Manchester based because that’s where I’m based but I’d definitely like to expand it to other cities. Eventually, if I’m able to travel more, then I want to make it more international. I’m very interested in the stories of black people in non-English speaking countries because we always hear a lot about the Black American experience and the Black British experience but we don’t get much about the Black French experience or the Black Austrian experience.

“In a year’s time, I think I’d like to take it internationally and be documenting stories of people all over. In 5 years time, I’d like to come out with a book with all these stories and possibly set up a charity organisation through The Black Narrative. I’d like to give children in disadvantaged areas the chance to travel as well and see places like South Africa or Canada so they can have those experiences and see beyond where they immediately live.

“I feel the reason that there is so much inter-generational deprivation and poverty in some areas is because people can’t see beyond where they are. They don’t imagine themselves doing other things and being in other places. Travelling is so important because it exposes you to new and formative experiences.”

Already the project is making waves, going from strength to strength.

We reflect on the journey so far and Keziah tells me about one of her more memorable interviews: “One of my favourite interviews was with a guy called Kome. He told me about how he would often get teased by other black people because of his interests. He was a classical musician, he played rugby, he did art, and he felt that there needed to be more encouragement of black people pursuing things outside of the realm of what we consider to “black” things.

“Things like rugby, which is seen as a predominantly white sport, and classical music shouldn’t be fields where only white people can excel. I thought it was very introspective of him because sometimes, as black people, when we talk about our issues and our problems it’s very easy to point the finger and say well ‘white people conditioned us to think like this’ but sometimes we need to be more responsible for ourselves.

“We need to take responsibility for uplifting other members of the black community, even those that are different from us.”

Whilst the project has so far been an individual labour of love, Doudy is excited at the prospect of involving more people.

She says “I’d love that. If you want to share your own personal story you can email me or follow the project on twitter at @TBlackNarrative. There’s also an Instagram page but it’s just great to have people interacting with the website in general. I love to hear what people think or what they’ve learned.

“As well as sharing stories, I’ve included a feature page so if people don’t necessarily want to talk about themselves they can talk about issues that they think are important or are affecting young black people today. I’ve just had a piece that a guy has written about what it is to be a young black man and how to deal with hyper-masculinity and the battle of how to be vulnerable and how to express yourself emotionally and it was amazing so I welcome outside contributions.”

The project can be found at theblacknarrative.co.uk

Manchester University questioned over Brexit teaching

Written by Cameron Broome on . Posted in News.

The University of Manchester has received a letter from a government chief whip demanding a list of academics teaching about Brexit and the material they are using, The Mancunion has learnt.

Chris Heaton-Harriss, Eurosceptic Conservative MP for Daventry, wrote to vice-chancellors at the start of this month asking for Universities to disclose the names of any academics involved in the teaching of European affairs “with particular reference to Brexit.”

Asked by The Mancunion about whether the University has received such a letter, a spokesperson said: “The University has received the letter and replied, directing the writer to sources of publicly available information.”

Last week, the government warned that Universities that fail to uphold free speech on campuses amidst the culture of space-spaces could face being blacklisted by the new higher education regulator.

Emma Atkins, the Students’ Union Education Officer, said that it was “a bit rich for the government to lecture universities about freedom of speech when they pull a stunt like this.”

Although Universities minister Jo Johnson MP described the letter as “research for a book”, academics have accused the government whip of “McCarthyite” behaviour – in other words, making accusations or insinuations without full evidence.

David Green, vice-chancellor of Worcester University, told The Guardian: “This letter just asking for information appears so innocent but is really so, so dangerous. Here is the first step to the thought police, the political censor and newspeak, naturally justified as ‘the will of the British people’, a phrase to be found on Mr Heaton-Harris’s website.”

A YouGov survey indicated that 80 per cent of academics voted to Remain in the EU referendum and Students’ Union Education Officer, Emma Atkins, told The Mancunion that she believes the letter “shows how terrified the govt is about the public realising what a disaster Brexit is going to be.”

Despite this, academics have insisted that students have been encouraged to think critically for themselves and that personal views have not affected their teaching.

Director of the European Centre in the politics and international studies department at the University of Cambridge, told The Guardian: “I told the students what my personal views were and emphasised that they were personal views. I voted to remain, but as an academic, my job is to impart knowledge, encourage debate and develop skills of analytical argument, not to impose doctrine.”

Pro-Brexit academics have also suggested they are unhappy with the behaviour of MPs.

Lee Jones, reader in International Politics at Queen Mary University in London, said: “It is really troubling that an MP thinks it is within his remit to start poking his nose into university teaching.

“Universities are autonomous and politicians have no right to intimidate academics by scrutinising their courses. I have colleagues who are diehard Remainers. But I know what they teach and it is not propaganda.”

However, the Electoral Commission has suggested that Universities have nothing to fear from inquiries of this nature.

They said: “we produce guidance to help all non-party campaigners understand the rules on campaigning and we can advise universities in cases where they may be affected.

“These do not prevent campaigning or engagement in public debate, but provide the public with transparency about who is spending what in order to influence their vote.”

Students’ Union Education Officer Emma Atkins was clear that “university staff are right to voice their concerns about this”, telling The Mancunion that the “government interfering with academic autonomy is dangerous.”

‘Garms for Grafting’ – an afternoon with Topman and Chris Hughes

Written by Amy Nguyen on . Posted in Fashion & Beauty.

The nation’s favourite Love Islander and Topman Brand Ambassador has released a shoppable capsule collection of TOPMAN AW17 essential pieces to reflect Chris’ own personal style. His ‘Garms for Grafting’ comprises of handpicked items ideal for “grafting in the club, bantering with the lads, or staying in with your son who may or may not be an inanimate toy doll.” The range features those infamous skinny jeans, a snug shearling aviator coat, caps and hats, and much more, – all at a very affordable high street price.

We caught up with Chris and quizzed him on some of our burning questions.

 

Tell us more about your Garms for Grafting Edit with Topman.  

This capsule edit is really about focusing on clothing you’re comfortable in. Whether it’s for occasions or being out and about on weekends, its pieces that are really wearable.

Obviously, it’s about taking things, like I’ve done with this collection, and making it your own to create your own personal style or using the Topman complimentary services to find what suits you.

What’s your favourite piece from the edit?

I would have to say currently my favourite pieces are the jackets, especially as we are going into Autumn. I’m a huge fan of bomber jackets, and the Topman Dark Green Puffer Jacket (RRP£65) is perfect to chuck on with jeans and is proper snuggly.

What’s your favourite kind of style on a guy? (You’re not allowed to say Kem)

I’m a big fan of long line tee’s, they are my go to item. Topman have even designed a long line T called the ‘Chris’ which is coming out later this Autumn which is pretty perfect. Pop those on with my signature skinnies and we’re good to go.

What’s your favourite kind of style on a girl?

There is absolutely nothing better than class on a girl. Classy clothing, with long knee high boots and jeans really do it for me. Olivia seems to pull it off extremely well.

What is your biggest fashion faux pas to date?

Unfortunately, there was a phase in my life where I used to wear T-shirts that were ridiculously, shockingly tight. So tight in fact to the point I couldn’t move in them, they had little to no sleeves, it was just too much and not the right look.

If you had to pick a fashion icon, living or dead, who would it be and why?

People ask me this question a lot and I’m never 100 per cent certain on who to pick. I think if men can pull of a suit, they can look good in anything, take Daniel Craig and David Beckham for example. I’m a firm believer, if you’re smart and well groomed, the clothes will follow.

If you could pick one item of clothing to take to a desert (love) island, what would it be and why?

It would have to be a pair of boxers or my undies. I need that support to hold it all up! I feel very uncomfortable when I don’t have anything on and it’s all free flowing, do you know what  I mean!

Following on from this, which item of clothing did you wear most in the love island house?

The white jeans. These have actually sold out in Topman now. It was the first time they were left in stores and collection during the Autumn/Winter season as they usually take them out by this stage of the year! Absolutely the white jeans went off and are great with a tan, which is harder to maintain now in the UK. (We feel you Chris)

Obviously grooming is as equally as important as the right wardrobe choices, do you have a grooming routine that you stick to or do you steal Olivia’s products?

Absolutely. Every four days I give my beard a little trim on level four, run it over and keep it tidy. I have my haircut once a week, it just makes me feel better and fresher. On top of the standard washing routine, sometimes apply bit of make up when necessary. I like using the matte stuff you put on before makeup. (That’s primer Chris!)

As the father and baby daddy of Cash Hughes, do you have any preference in how you style him?

It’s funny you should say that as I’ve got a new outfit waiting for him when I get home this weekend. A new hat and a matching bib for the boy. He sits on the sofa watching TV with us every night.

Your L’Eau de Chris  ‘Don’t bottle it up’ campaign to promote mental health awareness and anxiety is such an admirable collaboration with mental health charity CALM and will resonate with lots of our readers. What would you say to those suffering with anxiety issues and bottling up their emotions?

You’ve got to remain strong and know that you can and will get through it. Be brave enough to speak to your loved ones, friends and family and don’t bottle it up. It’s important to know there’s always someone at the end of the phone that want to help you overcome your current state which is why charities like CALM are so great as you never have to go it alone.

And finally, you’ve obviously found love so do you have any parting words of wisdom and pieces of advice to our University of Manchester student readers looking for short flings and the real thing?

**Que that infamous cheeky grin**

Well, if you’re looking for a short fling, you can go about it in just any way you want, if you bed someone you’ve done alright. But if you’re looking for long term, treat a girl how she should be treated, take her out, spoil her and don’t go all in too quickly flying off the handle and frightening them. Be chilled, and if it’s meant to be it’s meant to be.

Photo Credit: Amy Nguyen

It is clear from our time with Chris that his ‘Hashtag Looks, Hashtag Game, Hashtag personality, Hashtag everything’ statement made during the hit TV show this summer is most certainly true, and he wasn’t just bantering. We can’t wait to hear his platinum rap album with lyricist genius and partner in crime Kem and see what he has in store next.

You can shop the ‘Garms for Grafting’ edit and enjoy the stores personal shopping service at Topman, intu Trafford Centre, Manchester, M17 8AA.

 

Child sexual exploitation assurance review underway

Written by Hannah Murray on . Posted in News.

An independent review will seek to provide assurance that Greater Manchester has the right culture, and best systems in place, to protect children from sexual exploitation (CSE).

The report has been commissioned by Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham in response to public concern regarding issues raised in recent broadcasts.

The Mayor stated: “Sexual exploitation and abuse of children is abhorrent. I want a culture of zero tolerance towards any form of exploitation and abuse, where we constantly challenge ourselves to improve how we identify those at risk, give them a voice, investigate all reports, and prosecute those responsible.”

The review will provide a detailed timeline of events, actions, and decisions taken in previous reviews and reports. It will examine the recommendations in all published inquiries and reviews, following the convictions for the Rochdale child sex scandal in 2012, to highlight any gaps and risks which may remain.

The effectiveness of policies and processes now in place, under the Project Phoenix partnership arrangements, will also be reviewed. This will include an assessment of whether findings suggest that child sexual exploitation is being adequately addressed in Greater Manchester.

Finally, the review will provide recommendations which will help to guide the future direction of the response to CSE in Greater Manchester. This will include any changes to prevent victimisation and to further enhance services provided to victims.

The independent assurance team will report directly to Baroness Beverley Hughes, deputy mayor for Policing and Crime who said: “This review is important as it is being carried out on behalf of the people of Greater Manchester, who rightly expect our children to be properly protected from harm and abuse.

We want to ensure not only that current practice is the best it can be but also that we can respond effectively to any emerging new risks in the future”

Findings will be reported back in spring 2018 and will be published.

Review: The Snowman

Written by Esmee Samsworth on . Posted in Film.

It’s true that the world is becoming increasingly enamoured with Scandinavian style. The clean lines, effortless minimalism and gorgeous fusion of style and function are hard to resist, let’s be honest. But this is perhaps unsurprising when you consider the fact that Scandi-noir has long been one of the region’s top cultural exports.

Just look at the Swedish-American 2011 film, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, directed by David Fincher, based on a novel of the same name by Steig Larsson. Or Wallander, the UK TV series adaptation of Swedish writer Henning Mankell’s crime novels.

This genre is crime reinvented for the modern age — in a society that is increasingly appreciative of minimalism, Scandi-noir’s distinctive style and its penchant for cutting right to the heart of the matter ticks all the right boxes. You’d imagine then that The Snowman would be an instant success.

The film is based on Jo Nesbø’s 2007 bestseller, directed by Tomas Alfredson who has garnered praise for both Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (2011) and Swedish foreign language film Let The Right One In (2008). It stars Michael Fassbender as disillusioned, alcoholic, police detective Harry Hole who must put together the links between ages old cold cases before the serial-killer known only as The Snowman strikes again.

It has all the elements of an entertaining, if not slightly predictable crime thriller, but something doesn’t quite hit the mark. The film feels pieced together and rushed, as though screenwriters Peter Straughan and Hossein Amini didn’t have Jo Nesbø’s novel on hand when they were putting the screenplay together.

In defence of the film, Alfredson himself admitted that filming did not go entirely to plan, stating that when they reached the editing stages he “discovered that a lot was missing… like when you’re making a big jigsaw puzzle and a few pieces are missing so you don’t see the whole picture.”

It’s a shame, but not one that ultimately ruins the film. The Snowman is entertaining and visually spectacular. The filming took place principally in Oslo and Bergen, offering Alfredson and the Director of Photography Dion Beebe the chance to highlight the differences in Norway’s geography. Urban metropolises are starkly contrasted against icy countryside.

Michael Fassbender adds some weight and subtlety to Harry — if that’s possible given that there are a fair few shots of him yelling into nothingness, with only the mountains to hear him. Though Harry’s backstory is perhaps clichéd, Fassbender is nuanced in his approach to the character, making him likeable or at least understandable, whilst still playing a recognisably noir detective.

Along with Fassbender, Rebecca Ferguson — who plays newbie police officer Katrine, stands out. Chloë Sevigny and Anne Reid both have small cameos and give very strong performances.

In fact, the acting by nearly all the cast leaves little to be desired, the only exceptions being Val Kilmer and Toby Jones who give quite frankly bizarre performances as two hard-nosed police officers in a flashback segment that is jarringly out of place with the rest of film. You get the impression that this is what Alfredson meant when he said that filming in Norway was rushed and incomplete.

2.5/5

FA Cup First Round-up

Written by Arthur Salisbury on . Posted in Sport.

For the pundit class, the FA Cup first round draw is an opportunity to display some authenticity. Non-entities like Tim Lovejoy — who, in his autobiography, referred to a ‘League Three’ — can earn some cred by talking wistfully about The Magic Of The Cup™ over clips over Hereford ’71 and Sutton ’89.

Four years ago Luton Town beat Norwich City 1-0 with a late strike, the first time a non-league side had won away at a top division side since 1986, and yet this clip is never shown. The problems with the FA Cup are more deep-rooted than can be addressed with the sticking plaster of nostalgia, and part of it is to do with the appropriation of The Magic into the establishment narrative. When Ronnie Radford’s goal won it for Hereford, that match was the last game shown.

Of course the FA Cup is still important to the non-leaguers, and of course, the financial aspect is a part of this. Heybridge Swifts currently play in the Isthmian Division One North — they sit one point outside the playoffs but have six games in hand. The reason for this is their long cup run — they beat five teams over seven games to reach the first round. Haverhill Rovers, Arlesey Town, Metropolitan Police, Frome Town and, sadly from my blinkered North London perspective, Haringey Borough.

Their run has already netted them upwards of £30,000 and a lucrative away trip to Exeter City — the gate money in the FA Cup being split down the middle. This is money that can build a new stand, lay down a new pitch, or just keep the club going.

But a great deal of the loyal following the competition still has in the lower echelons lies in the opportunity to travel. It’s more a truism than a cliché to say that Saturdays are a great day out interrupted by a football match. The chance to explore new places through regional bus services is exciting — what else could possibly take me to Dereham?

Thus, to make the first round, to finally escape the regionalisation of the qualifiers, is very exciting for clubs playing at the sixth level and below.

I know London and Suffolk very well from my time following the Isthmian League, and though Enfield Town fell in injury time of the last hurdle replay, I can still feel vicariously thrilled by the journeys of my non-league comrades — Maidenhead in Coventry, Bromley in Rochdale, Chelmsford in Gateshead.

The bigger sister of the interesting-away-tie is the big-name-home-tie, and Hyde United have caught one alright. They’ve got one of the biggest clubs in the draw and also easily the evilest: MK Dons.

Distaste for the club, for many, crossed the line from run-of-the-mill footballing grudge to deep-burning ideological hate, merely by its formation. The relocation of Wimbledon F.C. fifty-odd miles North, with a change of name, colour and badge and the resultant destruction of a community — or rather, attempted destruction, with the genuine fairytale of AFC Wimbledon — has soured their image for most.

Get yourself over there on the 4th of November. It’ll be spicy. It’s a game where a draw will feel almost as good as a win, and hopefully, Hyde will stick the boot in and flood the dressing room — make them feel uncomfortable. It doesn’t just make footballing sense, it is a moral imperative too.

The Red Devils narrowly win in a tough match at Benfica

Written by James Gill on . Posted in Sport.

Jose Mourinho will be feeling very confident about his side’s chances in Lisbon tonight. Benfica have failed to earn any points in their opening two games and have a miserable goal difference of -6. This is exactly the opposite of United’s start, who have won both their games and have a goal difference of +6.

Nemanja Matic and Victor Lindelof will both be returning to their former clubs, with Mourinho also returning to the team he first became a first-team coach with. Formerly the assistant to Jump Heynckes, he took over in the fourth week of the 2000/2001 season after Heynckes left the club under a mutual agreement.

Several injuries mean that the United line-up is a very predictable one — 4-4-1-1 —, with the only doubt being whether Rashford or Martial starts. De Gea is in-between the sticks with Valencia (c), Lindelof, Smalling, and Blind making the back four. Herrara, Matic, Mata, and Rashford play in the midfield, sitting behind Mkhitaryan and Lukaku.

Benfica get the game kicked off. They were the second club ever to lift this trophy after Real Madrid, and it is they who start the game better, getting the ball into the United box in the hopes that someone can connect to it but to no avail.

A yellow card comes in the fifth minute as Mkhitaryan gets an elbow to the head. The Benfica player had his eyes on Mkhitaryan rather than the ball so he can have no complaints about that.

The game settles down after the first ten minutes and it is United who are on top and controlling possession as expected. They are playing to the very limit of the Benfica backline with two of their attacks in quick succession being stopped from offside calls.

A fantastic chance for Benfica as Grimaldo takes on three United players stylishly before crossing it into the box. The resulting shot didn’t have any of that quality though and it goes high and wide.

That chance switches momentum in their favour and United struggle to hold possession, barely stringing two or three passes together before losing it again. The pace in which Benfica break away with is surprising the Red Devils who can’t handle it.

At the 30-minute mark, United finally wake up and turn on the gas with the ball not leaving the Benfica half for the past six minutes. Mata and Matic are looking very bright, the creative sparks in a team which before this really lacked forward thinking. The latter made a driving run through the defence and fired a shot straight at the keeper.

Valencia gets the second yellow card of the game for using his hand to block a player, making contact with his face rather than the body. The free kick is near the corner flag and gives Benfica the chance to get players into the box and test Mourinho’s set pieces training. It barely reaches the first man though, rather pathetically bouncing towards the mass of players.

As the first half comes to an end, neither side look more likely to win in a back and forth game. The main story though is a number of offsides from United attacks at 6, which is just a lack of concentration and needs to be addressed. Mourinho will not be amused, and the side that comes out in 15 minutes will undoubtedly be more focused.

From the whistle blow, it is already obvious that United have stepped it up, closing down attacks quickly and turning that defence into attack. They are yet to test the young keeper though, with their only on target shots going straight into his gloves.

The third yellow of the game as Rashford breaks on his own and gets wildly dragged down by the Benfica defender in a desperate to stop the attack. Fouls aren’t limited to just the one side though as Lukaku does the exact same thing a moment later, not a card though.

This Benfica team is looking worlds apart from the one that lost 5-0 at Basel. That said, it may only take one breakthrough goal for United to cause them to capitulate. I think the substitutes will make the difference, especially the fresh legs of Martial and Lingard, against the tired legs of the defence.

After almost scoring directly from a corner, Rashford scores a free kick from a ridiculous distance, something extraordinary. It would be a shame if that was the goal to defeat Benfica as their defence has been absolutely phenomenal up until that point, forcing United to settle for long shots.

A sad sight for fans as Rashford goes down and takes off his shin pads, it looks like he isn’t going to make any further contribution. Hopefully, it isn’t anything serious. Anthony Martial comes on in a like-for-like change, the first of the game for United so far.

The tempo is slowing down now as United are currently in the lead, looking content to hold possession and wind down the clock in the last 10 minutes. They have a ridiculous 72 per cent possession so far but that really doesn’t do justice to the great performances by Benfica this game.

Lingard comes on in the 82nd minute for Juan Mata, who played a fair amount longer than his usual stints in games. Mourinho is opting to not make defensive substitutions showing that he isn’t packing it in just yet.

Benfica pushing hard for a late equaliser but haven’t managed to turn countless corners and final third possession into shots. As the board comes up for four minutes extra time it seems more likely that United get a second on the counter.

The third and final substitution comes as McTominay takes the place of Mkhitaryan. The Armenian has been lacklustre this game, quite uncharacteristic given his performances so far this season.

A red card in the 93rd minute as captain Luisao slides on McTominay to receive a second yellow. This will indeed mean that he misses the return fixture at Old Trafford, a major blow for a team that has won no points in their first three games.  Jesse Lingard gets a yellow card for time-wasting in the final event of the game

It wasn’t a pretty performance, more reminiscent of the game against Liverpool than one of the 4-0 wins we’ve become accustomed to. Nevertheless United go top of the group with nine points out of a possible nine, their qualification to the next round all but confirmed.

Robots take over Manchester

Written by Mancunion on . Posted in News, Science & Tech.

A new blockbuster exhibit Robots is now open to the public at the Museum of Science and Industry (MoSI). The new exhibit headlines the ongoing Manchester Science Festival. It is just one of many robotic themed events that make up the 11-day long Manchester Science Festival, which kicked off on Thursday the 19th of October.

The Manchester Science Festival is a creative celebration of science that welcomes people to take part in over 100 unique events across our city. Antonio Benitez, the director of the festival, has poured a love of science and an emphasis on inclusivity into all of the events. Antonio wants to ignite a passion and curiosity for science in people of all ages and backgrounds, from preschool children to practising researchers.

Next week Antonio hopes to achieve this goal, and Manchester’s passion for science will come to life. Events like Tape and Dinosaurs in the Wild give Mancunians the chance to walk through the unknown. Tape, another new exhibit at the

Tape, another new exhibit at the MoSI, is a gigantic spider’s web created by award-winning artists Numen/For Use. EventCity’s Dinosaurs in the Wild workshop provides the magical opportunity to learn about the world 67 million years ago. For the more robotically-inclined there are several robot themed events, and Robots is one of the most awe-inspiring.

Upon entering the exhibit patrons are greeted at by an animatronic baby mounted to the wall. This striking feat of engineering waves patrons into the wonderful world of robots.

The animatronic baby immediately challenges the idea that all automatons are either terminator T-800 killing machines or sleek Apple devices that want our jobs and leads into an exploration of 500 years of automation history. Taking us from the 16th-century Catholic clock automatons, through to the machines that powered the industrial revolution, all the way to the modern era.

Ben Russell, the curator of the Robots exhibit, assembled this extraordinary collection of robots over the course of six years. Mr Russell and his team have gone to extreme lengths to gather their exhibit.  From rescuing the fantastical Shadow Biped Walker — the first human-sized biped — from a collapsed roof, to contacting local talent to restore the robot to working order. Nothing would stop this passion project.

Mr Russell and his team are aiming to show that robots are not scary — an increasingly relevant challenge in today’s rapidly automating world. There is a strong emphasis on how humans understand themselves through our robotic creations. As we travel through the decades of innovations the machines become more human.

Robots’ shows a friendly and optimistic vision of the future. The last robot of the exhibit, the EU-funded iCub, drives this point home. iCub is the world’s most advanced learning robotic toddler which cheerfully picks up and plays with children’s toys with increasing dexterity — a skill it figured out all by itself!

The final day of the Robots exhibit ends with an evening discussion called Robot World with Professor Barry Lennox. Professor Lennox researches ways to operate robots in the extreme conditions, from the hazardous environments of a nuclear power station during their decommission, to performing critical research at the bottom of the sea. He will explore the impact of AI on jobs, and the pros and cons of the rise of the robots.

At just £8 for students, Robots is a fantastic way to spend a few hours. It truly is a labour of love. Robots show the potential and exciting ways automation will affect our lives and challenges our ideas of how robots will live amongst us.

Balfour ‘Celebrations’ on campus enrage students and staff

Written by Hana Jafar on . Posted in News.

Students at the University of Manchester have organised a protest against the university allowing celebrations of the Balfour Declaration on campus, organised by pro-Israeli groups.

The Manchester Balfour 100 event is set to commence on Tuesday the 31st of October at the University of Manchester’s Whitworth building. It is part of a number of events marking a century since former British Foreign Secretary Arthur James Balfour released a statement on the 2nd of November, announcing support for a “national home for the Jewish people” in Palestine, then under the Ottoman Empire with a Jewish population of 90,000.

According to a section titled ‘Manchester’ on the official Balfour 100 website, zionist groups were established in Didsbury by Jewish businessman Chaim Weizmann after the first world war, and it was in fact philosopher and former professor at The University of Manchester, Samuel Alexander, who arranged the meeting between Weizmann and Balfour. For supporters of the Zionist cause, this was imperative to the creation of Israel in 1948.

However, for Palestinians, this has led to the loss of land and illegal occupation of the West Bank and Gaza, with collateral damage including the expulsion of around 800,000 Palestinians and the destruction of approximately 400 villages over the last 50 years.

The University’s decision to allow celebrations to take place has stirred outrage from students, academics, and activist groups on campus including the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, the BME Campaign, Action Palestine, and the ‘Fight Racism! Fight Imperialism!’ Campaign.

These groups have organised an ‘Apartheid Off Campus’ protest outside the hall on the evening of the celebrations. Over a hundred students have confirmed attendance to the Facebook event, with students from Sheffield University’s Palestine Solidarity Campaign sending a coach of supporters to join in. A rumoured total of around 200 students are expected at the protest.

The University’s Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) Campaign, which was recently endorsed by the Students’ Union, has also written an open letter to Vice Chancellor Nancy Rothwell, entreating her to consider revoking the right to hold the celebration at the University and to cancel the event.

“Celebrating the Balfour declaration is a mockery of the suffering of the Palestinian people, and is greatly disrespectful for Palestinian students at the university who have, alongside their families, been forced to live their entire lives under the boot of the Israeli army.

“A large number of students have expressed fear for their safety with Israeli security personnel roaming our campus. By allowing this event to take place and hosting the Israeli embassy, the university is failing to uphold its basic duty of care to staff and students.”

The letter was signed by activist groups and campus and other student societies, including the Arab Society, Islamic Society, Sri Lankan Society and Tamil Society.

Senior Professor of Sociology at the University, Nick Thoburn, said he was “dismayed” that the institution had allowed the event to take place on its campus, which he said commemorated the moment Britain, “with its imperial chauvinism and entitlement, knowingly gave the green light to the ethnic cleansing of Palestine.”

“That this could be a cause for celebration, hosted in whatever way by a British University, when the consequences then and now have been so devastating … is indicative of the contempt that Israel and its advocates hold both for Palestinians in the region and in exile,” he added.

The Mancunion contacted the University for a statement, and was informed by a University Spokesperson that: “The University allows some of its premises to be hired by third parties for external events, provided that the events in question comply with the University’s Code of Practice on Freedom of Speech.

“This [Balfour 100] event is one such commercial booking and it has no connection to, nor is it endorsed by, the University.”

According to a representative of The University of Manchester’s Jewish Society (JSoc), “This event is not a student event and is a Jewish communal event. We support the right of Jewish students to attend and the wider Balfour campaign is to celebrate the British support for Jewish self-determination.

“The student Balfour campaign aims to commemorate the role of the British government in backing the Jewish struggle for self-determination.”

These sentiments were also echoed by organisation North West Friends of Israel, who, when contacted by The Mancunion, stated that Zionism was one of many nationalist movements at the time, concluding that “It is absolutely natural for the Jewish Community of Manchester to celebrate the centenary of Balfour given the close affinity that community has with the Jewish State of Israel.”

In the past, pro-Palestine events held and organised by student groups have been disrupted and cancelled, with University administration imposing strict guidelines on speakers.

The University statement continued: “The University will not suppress freedom of thought and expression, consistent with the Statement on Academic Freedom. However, the University has a duty to ensure, wherever practical, that such thoughts and expressions do not go beyond the articulation of points of view and do not constitute incitement to riot, insurrection, racial hatred, religious hatred, sexual harassment or other activities (beyond the right of peaceful protest) which are likely to cause a breach of the peace or public disorder or otherwise to be unlawful.

“The University will not unreasonably refuse to allow events to be organised and held. The expression of controversial views which do not breach the law will not constitute reasonable grounds for withholding permission for an event.”

Mayor Andy Burnham awarded Doubleday Award

Written by Cliona Linehan on . Posted in News.

Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, has been confirmed as the 2017 awardee of the Doubleday award, in recognition for his work in the wake of the Manchester Arena bombing that took place just five months ago.

The attack of May 2017 resulted in the death of twenty-three people, including ten people under the age of twenty, and two-hundred and fifty wounded after a suicide bomber detonated their device in the Manchester Arena, towards the end of a concert by pop star Ariana Grande.

On the morning following the attack, Andy Burnham, who only became Mayor of Greater Manchester some weeks earlier, gave a statement depicting the attack as “an evil act”, and continued to praise the response of Manchester residents, ending his statement saying that “it will be [the] spirit of Manchester that will prevail and hold us together.”

The Doubleday Fund, which runs the award, was established by the Doubleday family after their son Edwin tragically died before his final examinations in 2000. The fund’s focus is on medical evaluation, and its support of the Doubleday Centre for Patient Experience permits further interaction between students and the public in the training of future doctors.

The award, running since 2002, is granted to any individual who is seen to have significantly contributed to society, and former winners have included Rabbi Julia Neuberger, former director of the Kings Fund, as well as former Chief Medical Officer Sir Kenneth Calman.

The award will be presented to the Mayor by John Doubleday before the Mayor gives his Doubleday lecture at the University of Manchester this month. In his lecture, Andy Burnham is anticipated to focus mainly on issues concerning extremism, alongside discussing ideas on political participation and the impact of possible increased devolution.

Reflecting on the Mayor’s contribution, Director of the Doubleday centre, Dr Robina Shah, commented on Mr Burnham’s receipt of the award, saying that: “Andy Burnham showed great leadership for our community in the wake of the tragic events.”

She added that his “support for the victims, the families, the emergency services, and local people who did so much to help those affected is praiseworthy, and we are delighted to be able to recognise his important contribution.”

3 travel magazines to feed your wander lust

Written by Sophia Macpherson on . Posted in Lifestyle.

As we approach the last few weeks of October, the cold of winter is imminent and, with that, the desire for a holiday grows feverishly. The idea of skimming through travel magazines whilst stuck in the gusty winds of Manchester could seem a rather sad and depressing thing to do or it could be the perfect way to let your mind wonder.

Either way, the glossy pages of these magazines are definitely a form of escapism. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing but offer voices to people who tell real stories about people and places that are unique. As deadlines approach us, these magazines are the perfect thing to flick through as a study break or before bed.

SUITCASE magazine

Branded as a ‘fashion + culture’ magazine, SUITCASE blends together insider travel knowledge and visually stunning fashion editorials and releases four issues a year. The magazine gives a voice to creatives who have unique stories that can also act as a gateway for other cultures around the world. Issues are focused on different places which have a concurring theme. Their latest issue is named ‘Homelands’ and looks at Peru, Ladakh, Japan, Prague, Santa Monica, Sicily, and Trancoso. Priced at £6.99.

BOAT magazine

The people at BOAT focus each issue on a new city. They uproot themselves and live in these places for weeks on end, in order to fully immerse themselves in the lives of the locals. Content is a mixture of locals’ voices and the outsider perspective, which results in a refreshing take on the city in focus. Their latest issue to buy looks at the Faroe Islands. Priced at £10.

Cereal magazine

One of the most well-known and loved independent travel magazines, Cereal prides itself on its minimalist design. Boasting stunning photography and evocative writing, the magazine does well to take you away from reality and into your imagination. The biannual magazine tailors their issue to a few cities focusing on stories centred around design, art, fashion, and feature interviews. Their latest issue to buy is ‘Cereal Volume 14: Autumn Winter 2017’. Priced at £12.

All prices correct as of the 17th of October 2017.

Top 5 Craig David songs

Written by Yasmin Duggal on . Posted in Music.

Craig David returns to Manchester this November for this season’s Warehouse Project, bringing his famous TS5 set to the Store Street stage. Expected to be a whirlwind of spectacular progressive house, R’n’B, and garage, David will bring his wealth of experience to the highly anticipated event.

He will be supported by grime MC Big Narstie, reggae legend David Rodigan, and People Just Do Nothing‘s Kurupt FM, all set to get the crowd hyped ready for the man himself to take to the stage.

Fill Me In

Taken from debut album Born To Do It, this smooth R’n’B number takes us straight back to 2000 — what a year for music. His first solo single shot to number one, making him the youngest British male to reach the top spot in four decades.

7 Days

A slow jam classic — let’s be real. David’s biggest hit to date, there’s no justification needed. It’s the perfect excuse to ‘chill on Sunday’, and we can’t help but melt at that dated noughties romance vid, oozing with just enough cringe.

Re-rewind – Artful Dodger ft. Craig David

This tune is a club tradition, and Craig David’s vocals elevate the track to a legendary status. It was the first we heard of the young singer, all the way back in 1999. It’s become a garage anthem and a British festival banger.

When The Bassline Drops – Craig David x Big Narstie

A more recent track, this collaboration with grime MC Big Narstie saw Craig David make an incredible comeback after a break from the industry. Featuring a garage-inspired style, this took David back to his roots and put him straight back into chart limelight.

Walking Away

Another super chilled R’n’B track, the third single from Born To Do It is a great track for a lazy hungover weekend when only retro classics will get you through.

Costumes and cultural appropriation – where to draw the line

Written by Ginah Shergill on . Posted in Fashion & Beauty.

It’s time for trick or treat, pumpkins, and scary outfits. Halloween has crept up on us once more. Many are prepared — coloured contacts, litres of fake red blood, and the spookiest of outfits ready and waiting — whilst some such as myself are clutching at straws for a sinister yet sensational costume for a night they most probably won’t remember.

Regardless of your wardrobe agenda, the prevalence of cultural appropriation can be deemed increasingly important during Halloween season. Cultural appropriation and the issues surrounding it seems to be ever increasing.

What do we define as cultural appropriation? Although there are varying ways to view this, essentially it can be seen as when someone adopts a certain aspect from a culture that does not belong to their own, this can span clothing, hairstyles, or manners of speaking.

Its central focus lies in the power dynamic where the dominant culture seeks to extract elements from a minority culture without consent and from a group who may have been oppressed by that dominant section of society in the past. For instance, minority groups in the past that constantly face issues of cultural appropriation, especially in the US, include African, Asian, Mexican and Native American people.

This being said, you have probably seen people dress up as Native Americans with a feather headdress, or wearing sombreros and fake moustaches as Halloween costumes- we are probably all a little guilty of teetering across these very fine lines.

These ethnic and racial stereotypical type ‘costumes’ are popular and highly dubious. We only have to look at our favourite Jenner sisters Kendall and Kylie as an example to see the sensitive nature of cultural appropriation and how it can create an array of issues.

Both members of the Kardashian clan have been rigorously scrutinised for imitating Latin culture in their named clothing collections. Kylie also faced backlash for sporting cornrows and braids which are prevalent in black American culture.

Katy Perry is also accustomed to much criticism after her appearance during performances where she dressed as a geisha in 2013 which mimicked Japanese culture.

Issues regarding this were recognised by University Students in Ohio who also paid this issue a significant amount of attention and started a campaign called ‘We’re a Culture, Not a Costume’ in 2011. This focused on preventing cultures being turned into stereotypical costumes.

One woman’s temporary costume may be an integral facet and identification of another’s cultures and treasured traditions so it is important to be mindful and sensitive to those around us when selecting our Halloween costumes.

Playboy’s history in Manchester

Written by Megan Matthews on . Posted in News.

Labelled an ‘American Icon’, the controversial figure Hugh Hefner died on the 27th of September. His death sparked an offset of celebration for the man some claim helped make the liberal elements of the women’s movement more acceptable to a conservative, pre-Betty Friedan, 1953 American society.

The magazine Playboy had been a supporter of women’s rights measures that were condemned by all parts of the bourgeois, including legalising abortion, sex education and birth control.

To put it into perspective, the first edition of Playboy was published in 1953, but abortion wasn’t legalised throughout the whole of the US until 1973. Similarly, he used his platform to push for gay rights, saying in a Playboy editorial in 2012, “Without [gay marriage], we will turn back the sexual revolution and return to an earlier, puritanical time.”

Whilst this magazine mogul’s impact was clearly widespread, many today are probably unaware of his influence within the city of Manchester itself. Located on what is now known as Manchester’s Gay Village, the Playboy Casino was situated on Canal Street and was the setting for wealthy Mancunians, footballers, actors, businessmen, and the like, to be served food and drinks by ‘bunnies’.

However, Yvonne Arstall, a former bunny, says the club was also a place for family groups and anniversaries as well as a celeb hotspot. The club was a 70-seat restaurant and girls had to meet certain standards to be allowed to don the iconic PlayBoy leotard and bunny ears.

Julie McCormack worked there throughout the 70s and told M.E.N in 2011 about the standards needed. She said, “in those days, you had to be really quite special to be a bunny girl. You had to have brains and intelligence as well as the physical attributes.” McCormack told of gruelling maths and psychometric tests that she had to pass and how her name was picked for her out of the hat- turning her into ‘Bunny Tiffany.’

Below are some  of the guidelines from the ‘Bunny’s Behaving Book’:

No bunnies were allowed to be given lifts home from anyone who had visited the club that evening.

No bunnies were to tell any visitor their real names.

No bunnies were allowed to embark in sexual relations with any of the guests of the restaurant.

Bunnies were to be immaculately dressed at all times.

Hair and nails were to always meet proper standards.

The strict nature of the establishment was a sentiment to how safe the clubs were made. The Mancunion have found no ex-worker who has publicly condemned the club and its methods. Most ex-playmates, including Yvonne Arstall, are “proud” to have their Playboy background, with many taking part in interviews over the years.

As Arstall said, “It’s about being the best of the best,” and this is a clear sentiment to the feeling behind the club itself. Experiences at the club are also positive with Arstall also saying, “It was so glamorous, and there was such a wonderful feel and atmosphere to the place.”

Opening in 1973, the club closed in 1982, after a rebranding of the entire face of Playboy due to it becoming labelled as ‘sleazy’. In 2011 there was call for it to be brought back to Manchester, following the success of the newly renovated one in Mayfair, London, where bunnies are earning upwards of £60,000 a year with tips.

235s casino in Deansgate was to be rebranded into a Playboy Casino with its own batch of bunny croupiers. However, some called it a ‘shocking step backwards’ and the plans were never put into action.

 

The PVC Renaissance

Written by Amy Nguyen on . Posted in Fashion & Beauty.

Let’s talk PVC. Plastic Polyvinyl Chloride.

Traditionally associated with goth, punk, and fetishism, marked as the perfect go-to dominatrix uniform, this glossy patent material is experiencing somewhat of a renaissance.

Our favourite mean girl Cady Heron once said, “in girl world, Halloween is the one day a year when a girl can dress up like a total slut and no other girls can say anything else about it.” For many of us, adhering to this advice and grabbing your nearest pair of PVC pants may be a once-a-year Halloween-Cat-Woman-manoeuvre.

Within the last year, the PVC trend has received substantial coverage and has returned in full force on the runway, the high street, and has been worn by the biggest names in the business. This high shine slick material, usually reserved for costumes and dress up, has been given a big nod of approval in recent months from designers across the globe.

Vinyl Raincoats have featured on this season’s runways by Vetements, Topshop, Burberry, and Adidas. The sheen of the material adds not only a waterproof function but a sleek futuristic take on this key winter piece. Various levels of transparency of the material can also be seen to create an extra dimension and additional layer to a previously simple ensemble.

This September, Olivier Rousteing, Creative Director of French powerhouse Balmain, adorned the beauties during Paris Fashion Week in an eclectic collection of PVC. This SS18 preview saw jumpsuits, tailored trousers, and skirts, all comprised of the normally infamous PVC, adapted into a variety of chic and sexy silhouettes.

On the high street and at the more affordable end of the spectrum, purchasing a plethora of patent is made easy with retailers such as Topshop, Missguided and H & M incorporating this into their current Autumn and Winter collections. Former Made in Chelsea star turned designer Millie Mackintosh, has placed the PVC stamp on her latest range with the gorgeous Fyfield trouser available to purchase on ASOS.

My recommended style tip would be to pair these shiny new threads with a pastel toned fluffy knit to even out the overall temptress level of your outfit.

Photo Credit: Millie Mackintosh @ Instagram

Often hard to defend outside of the Halloween season, designers and retailers have pushed PVC to the forefront of their leather agenda in many guises and creations in recent months. So Halloween and spooky season related or not, I dare you.

 

Migration researchers team up with theatre group

Written by Cameron Broome on . Posted in News.

University of Manchester researchers are collaborating with a local theatre group to shine light on the issue of migration.

Co-founder by former Coronation Street actor Julie Hesmondhalgh, the Ancoats-based Hope Mill Theatre are working with the University’s Migration Lab to produce a new multi-media theatre production titled ‘Be//Longing ‘.

Running from Tuesday the 31st of October to Saturday the 4th of November, the production is an artistic response to recent social and political events, showcasing the Manchester Migration Lab’s findings and addressing perceptions and myths about migration.

Manchester Lab Coordinator, Dr Cathy Wilcock, said: “Public opinion on migration has been manipulated for political and ideological reasons by the right-wing press, and a lot of popular discourse is very far removed from the actual facts.

“This is one of the reasons we’re keen to collaborate with creative practitioners – it’s essential that academic researchers make use of as many communication channels as possible, in order to expose these myths and raise awareness of migration research at The University of Manchester.”

Hope Mill Theatre will attempt to transform itself to resemble a warehouse on the edge of a border.

Upon arrival at the theatre, audience members will reach an arrivals area where their tickets will be checked and processed before they cross the border to ‘Be//Longing’.

They will then “receive a map to a world of performed narrative, film, music and installation” which will explore various themes including the effects of Brexit on EU workers, the hierarchy of belonging and how people redefine borders.

Actor Julie Hesmondhalgh said: “Hopefully, the fusing of academic findings and the creative engagement of the theatrical experience will bring the many stories to light, and provide a beautiful and informative evening for our audiences in the wonderful Hope Mill Theatre.”

The production will also consist of various film screenings including “Risk to Exist” by indie band Maxïmo Park and Grant Archer’s film “Borders”.

The University of Manchester Students’ Union Diversity Officer, Riddi Viswanathan, said: “I personally believe that the value added by the immigrants, especially international students and academicians, to Great Britain is immense and needs to be celebrated.

“[I’m] extremely elated to hear about the launch of Be Longing. This is such an innovative initiative to discuss the issues on migration. I wish the team all the very best with this project!”

Tickets can be bought online and are £5 for University of Manchester students, £10 for concessions, and £12 for adults.

All proceeds from the event will go to migration charities Revive, United for Change, Operation Florian, and Migrant Offshore Aid Station (MOAS).

Budgeting basics

Written by Vicki Greenwood on . Posted in Lifestyle.

Creating a budget plan and sticking to it can be harder than it sounds, however learning to manage your finances is a useful life skill to acquire.

At the Advice Service, we recognise that financial difficulties are becoming increasingly common. With the rise in living and accommodation costs, plus cuts to financial support for students, ensuring you manage your finances and create a budget plan is more important now than ever.

Here we have pulled together our top budgeting basics to help you manage your money on a budget:

Boosting your income

It is really important to understand exactly how much money you will have coming in, and when. This will enable you to build a picture of what your income is going to look like across the year, helping you to create a budget plan.

Funding

Make sure you have explored all the funding options available to you. If you are unsure as to what your student finance entitlement is then please get in touch with the Advice Service who can advise you on this. There may also be other options you haven’t yet explored such as applying to charities or trusts for extra funding.

Part-time work

Lots of students find that they need to work part-time in order to pay for their living expenses. However, please try and keep in mind how important it is to create a work/life balance that is manageable.

The University of Manchester Careers Service has links and tips for finding a part-time job: http://www.careers.manchester.ac.uk/findjobs/workwhilestudy/parttime/

Sell your clutter

Most of us have items that we no longer use any more. Why not have a clear out and sell these on as a means to try and give your finances a quick boost? There is a marketplace on the University website which allows students to sell and buy items: http://themarketplace.staffnet.manchester.ac.uk/

Managing your expenditure

Make a list of all your essential out-goings e.g. rent, bills, and food per term/month. Once you have done this take that number from your termly/monthly incomings to figure out how much you have left to spend on the non-essentials. If it is looking like a tight squeeze then you may need to consider limiting your non-essential expenses.

Socialising

Your largest non-essential expenditure is going to be socialising — whether it’s a night out, cinema, or going for a meal or out to lunch. Going out and socialising with friends is a large part of university life.

To put it into perspective if you buy lunch 3x a week at a fiver a go, then in one academic year that will cost you around £600. It may be worthwhile making extra when you cook so that you can take it to university with you. The Students’ Union have microwaves available for students to heat up their lunch on the go!

Clothes

Clothes are something we all need but it can be so easy to splurge on that extra top or pair of jeans you’ve had your eye on. Try to have staple pieces in your wardrobe that you can dress up or down. If you see something you like then try not to act on impulse, go away from the shop and have a think if you really need it or if you will wear it often.

There are loads of selling sites around and plenty of charity shops so why not look at buying some second-hand items. Some things are good as new and it is a great way to get labels at a fraction of the price, plus vintage is a great look!

If you have an NUS extra card you can also get student discounts on loads of items so make sure you shop around to get the best deal.

Staying active

Staying active need not cost you a pretty penny. A gym membership can be costly but there are plenty of exercise apps you can use if you want to exercise for free!

There are also lots of sporting facilities available for UoM students to take advantage of. This includes cut-price gym membership and exercise classes for as little as £2 per class!

Take a look at the following links to find out more:

http://www.sport.manchester.ac.uk/facilities/

http://www.sport.manchester.ac.uk/fitness/activeman/

Further budgeting advice can also be found by using Blackbullion where you can access a number of budgeting modules online. To take a look at the modules and register just go to www.blackbullion.com

Love for the Streets: Halloween soundclash

Written by Nicole Wootton-Cane on . Posted in News.

Halloween revellers intend to descend on CUBO Fallowfield next weekend for a night of soundclash entertainment, all in the name of charity.

‘Love for the Streets: Halloween Soundclash’ will involve three different crews going up against each other, each hoping for the biggest crowd reaction. The event will have three rounds, with the headliners each having twenty minutes per round to wow the audience.

Proceeds from the event will be split, with 50 per cent going to furthering the Love for the Streets campaign and 50 per cent to homeless charities in Manchester such as Street Support and Big Change Fund. The event comes after various new initiatives from Manchester City Council and Mayor Andy Burnham to tackle homelessness in the city.

CEO and founder of Love for the Streets, Jonah Enyi Ogbuneke, hopes the night will be a big hit with students.

He told The Mancunion: “The line-up speaks for itself, with amazing crews like Off Beat, Freerange and Romping shop.’’

Jonah’s motivation for creating and organising this night comes from his commitment to dealing with the problem of homelessness in Greater Manchester.

He states that his movement, Love for the Streets, is a “creative and unique response to the issue…it’s perhaps the only initiative I’ve come across that goes out of its way to engage students in a very serious issue.’’

Love for the Streets is entirely run by student volunteers and Jonah plans on using some of the proceeds from the event to expand the idea even further, creating a campaign called “community” to go along with the events.

He said: “To me, this is one of the most exciting parts of the campaign. It’s where we get to go into a lot of depth on the issue of homelessness. We have planned conferences, art exhibitions, volunteer taster sessions and ambassador training, all centred around the issue of homelessness.”

The aim of much of this is to allow members of the public to be able to signpost the nearest services to rough sleepers when they see them.

Love for the Streets is a campaign that Ogbuneke is confident will continue to grow with the help of volunteer support.

The event, ‘Love for the Streets: Halloween Soundclash’, is at CUBO Fallowfield on Saturday the 28th of October at 10pm.