JOHNNY DEPP SPEAKS ABOUT BEING IN SCOTLAND AFTER WINNING LIBEL CASE

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JOHNNY Depp talked about how he was feeling in  Scotland after he was asked how it felt to be a free man here. 

Footage has emerged from the Hollywood star’s trip to Glasgow to perform on stage with his musician friend Jeff Beck and the star looked thrilled as he spoke exclusively to theshowbizlion.com . 

Johnny had greeted fans after exiting through the back door of the Dakota hotel in Glasgow and spent time autographing pictures and waving to the awaiting crowd. 

The 58-year-old who was in the hotel’s car park had arrived the previous morning around 3am by tour bus with his Scots bodyguard Malcolm before heading inside the hotel. 

At the time he was unable to stop after the tiring journey from down south but he promised to speak the next day.

Johnny mania hit Glasgow as fans tried to get a glimpse of the Pirates of The Caribbean star ahead of Jeff’s sold out gig at the Royal concert hall. 

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Bev asked Johnny: “Johnny Depp, how does it feel to be a free man in Scotland?”

A smiling Johnny responded: “Oh it feels good to be in Scotland, it feels good.”

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He didn’t say if he was planning to party but later that night had a small gathering with friends including Shane MacGowan’s wife Victoria Mary Clarke backstage at the Royal Concert hall. 

Johnny arrived in Glasgow just days after he won his libel case against his ex-wife Amber Heard this month.

Johnny was awarded compensatory damages of $10million (£8 million) and a further $5 million (£4 million) in punitive damages by a jury.

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The actor sued the Aquaman star Amber over an article  titled: “I spoke up against sexual violence - and face our culture’s wrath. That has to change.” 

His victory has divided opinion but raised conversations about the role of social media, women’s rights, men’s rights and the power of PR. 

From Scotland with love - theshowbizlion.com 

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PACKING LIGHT

HOLIDAY packing can bring out the stress in all of us so here’s a handy guide to help you fit everything you need into your luggage, large or small. 

If you like travelling light or just want to avoid extra luggage charges, versatile items of clothing are a holiday staple. They can be re-worn multiple ways during the trip, and they take the stress out of packing – your suitcase is ready for anything. But what exactly fits the bill of the perfect low-maintenance wardrobe? 

Here, we delve into the essentials to keep you relaxed for your travels.

Mixing and matching: The must-have items

Your suitcase checklist: 

o Linen shirt

o Chino shorts

o Chino trousers

o V-neck jumper

o Denim shorts

o Basic tee

Bringing versatile items for your trip is useful, of course, but going the extra mile and wearing them for your flight is going to give you the maximum amount of room in your luggage. Linen shirts are an essential item for your low-maintenance travel wardrobe, as the fabric absorbs moisture and dries very quickly, so you can be sure that you aren’t too hot and bothered on your flight, as well as during your days under the sun on your trip. Plus, the versatility means that you’re still dressed appropriately for your late-night drinks – no need to head back to your accommodation to change your outfit!

Chino shorts are an essential pairing for your linen shirt that will combat the classic plane discomfort. Thanks to the cotton offering stretch and flexibility, comfort is ticked off the list, which will particularly be useful for long-haul flights. They also prevent you from filling your case with more night-time clothing, as they can be re-worn with your linen shirt for activities on your trip – not to mention it’s a dashing combination when you need to fit with a smart dress code.

On the other hand, your chosen destination may require you to be slightly more covered up – in this case, chino trousers are the answer to all of your problems. The material is comfortable, and you can also rest assured knowing that you’re being respectful to the rules of the area. Non-iron chinos are a wise choice to match with your shirt to avoid creases; the smart and clean look is promised all day long.

Worried about being slightly chilly as you travel? Match a V-neck jumper with your shirt and shorts as an extra layer. Of course, it’s a stylish look – but you needn’t worry about feeling too cold on the way to your destination, and it can even work as a layer for evenings on your trip if you’re expecting a cooler climate. 

Thanks to your airport attire, that extra room can be filled with a classic pair of denim shorts, yet another item that you can wear for different occasions, whether that be for a spot of lunch or a trip to a beach bar. Pair these with your linen shirt and you’re certain to get heads turning.

Alternatively, a simple t-shirt will match both your denim shorts and your chino shorts. Your life is made easier given the opportunity to mix with different items – and not only will it match well with your V-neck jumper when you need to layer up, but it will also keep you cool and comfortable while travelling. 

Essential hues for your wardrobe

Considering the colours for your low-maintenance wardrobe is something you must not forget. Although you may want your luggage to be bursting with bright colours, it’s simply impractical, as it makes mixing and matching difficult. However, you can still throw some striking looks together without being too bold.

White is the ultimate colour to choose for clothing. It’s a shade that you can rely on to match any other colour, and it’s got the power to achieve a sleek and sophisticated look. This will come in handy for your linen shirt in particular if you’ve got plans to head to a sophisticated restaurant. Additionally, it’s bound to last you all day long, even in the heat, as white is one of the best colours to wear to keep cool.

But it’s unrealistic to opt for white for every item of clothing. Beige goes perfectly with white as it is a neutral shade, and the combination of light-hues is fitting with shades of summer– so you will no doubt look fashionable. Consider this for your bottoms, whether that be shorts or trousers.

Throwing a third colour into your low-maintenance wardrobeto achieve the full mix and match potential might seem challenging, but it’s easier than you think. Baby blue is another neutral shade, yet it adds a splash of colour to bring your outfit together. This is ideal for your jumper or your denim shorts to match your tops.

If you’re keen to be slightly more adventurous with your colours, incorporate olive green into your wardrobe. It remains in the neutral zone to stay matching, but it’s just the right amount of daring. This is certain to be a striking colour for your t-shirt to pair with your beige chino shorts.

 

Comfort, style, and versatility are covered with these items and colours to save you the hassle of taking too many itemsand spending hours packing. Your low-maintenance travel wardrobe is ready for any destination! 

Sources

https://www.fabricsgalore.co.uk/blogs/news/why-linen-is-the-perfect-material-for-summer#:~:text=Some%20of%20linen's%20most%20favourable,and%20dry%20at%20all%20times

https://www.trekkyrecords.com/why-chinos-are-better-than-jeans/

https://www.themodestman.com/neutral-colors/#:~:text=Neutrals%20colors%20include%20black%2C%20white,ve%20got%20a%20complete%20wardrobe.

https://www.lifestyleasia.com/bk/style/fashion/best-colours-to-wear-in-hot-weather-science

SCOTLAND GETS ITS TEETH INTO DRACULA LINKS

 SCOTLAND’S surprising links to Dracula and its famed author Bram Stoker are being celebrated by Visit Scotland on the iconic book’s 125^th anniversary. 

 

Scotland is said to have played a crucial role in the creation of the classic story with Stoker holidaying north of the border as he wrote it. Visitors and locals alike are being encouraged to indulge in some literary tourism – whereby people are inspired to visit the locations depicted in literature – and delve into the country’s connections to Dracula, following in Stoker’s footsteps.

 

Locations in Edinburgh, the Scottish Borders and Glasgow all have links to Stoker – but it is perhaps the striking cliff top castle in Aberdeenshire that is best known for its links to the story.

 

Slains Castle, near Cruden Bay, is believed to have inspired Dracula’s castle – specifically a unique octagon-shaped room described in the book, which Slains boasts. Stoker began writing Dracula – which was published in 1897 - while staying at the nearby Kilmarnock Arms Hotel, with his signatures from its guestbook in 1894 and 1895 surviving to this day. 

Now in ruins, the castle is best admired from nearby and should not be entered due to safety reasons.

 

The 125^th anniversary of Dracula is fittingly marked during Scotland’s Year of Stories which celebrates and promotes the wealth of stories inspired by, written, or created in Scotland.

The national tourism organisation has just co-hosted a special event with Blackwell’s bookshop in Edinburgh to mark the anniversary attended by Stoker’s great-grandnephew Dacre Stoker, who took part in a Q&A and book signing attended by fans of Dracula and horror literature.

 

Jenni Steele, VisitScotland Film and Creative Industries Manager, said: “This anniversary is a fantastic opportunity to highlight Scotland’s connections to this world-renowned book and character. 

 

“Dracula holds such a sense of intrigue and mystery, so it is not surprising that Bram Stoker’s writing is said to have been influenced by the country's magical landscapes and locations while on his travels. It was pleasure to co-host the special event in Edinburgh and have Dacre involved in sharing his passion and knowledge about Dracula in Scotland.

 

“2022 also marks Scotland’s Year of Stories – so this anniversary is a perfect fit to celebrate our links to this world-famous tale. And we hope that by shining a light on those ties, people will come and see the inspirational places that arguably helped created one of the most famous pieces of literature ever written.”

 

Dacre Stoker, great grandnephew of Bram Stoker, said: "It is a great privilege to part of this special anniversary, and even more so to be celebrating it in what is arguably the birthplace of Dracula; Scotland.

 

“The rich culture and heritage clearly left its impact on Bram; from the ruins of Slains Castle clearly inspiring the gothic setting of Dracula’s castle, to the vast landscape of Aberdeenshire’s coast to his links to Edinburgh and the Scottish Borders, including his friendships with writers such as Arthur Conan Doyle and other writers that make up the fabric of Scotland’s literary tradition.

 

“Scotland has inspired many writers and artists for centuries and its stories and landscapes hopefully will continue to inspire many more to come.” 

 

Aberdeenshire Council will host a civic reception at The Kilmarnock Arms Hotel in Cruden Bay tonight [Thursday 26 May] to unveil a new information panel detailing Bram Stoker’s ties to the area. 

 

Scotland has world-class literary links. Our landscapes, history and people have inspired writers for centuries, helping to bring to life enduring characters that capture the imagination. From Dracula to Outlander, Harry Potter to Sunset Song, Scotland has inspired some of the world’s best-loved literary creations.

 

Pre-Covid19 there were over three million visits to literary attractions across Scotland (2013-2019). Figures released by the Moffat Centre for Travel and Tourism Business Development at Glasgow Caledonian University detail visitor numbers to places with literature links including Abbotsford – The Home of Sir Walter Scott, Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, the Grassic Gibbon Centre, the Writers’ Museum, JM Barrie’s Birthplace, Scott Monument and Burns Monument Centre. 

 

And there are several Scottish locations with Dracula and vampire ties for visitors to discover:

• Renfield Street, Glasgow – It is believed Bram Stoker supported the staging of plays at the Theatre Royal in Glasgow and that the name of RM Renfield, the character featured in the novel, was taken from Glasgow's Renfield Street.
• Edinburgh - Before writing Dracula, Bram Stoker worked as a theatre manager, which saw him heavily involved in the opening night of the Royal Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh in 1883.
• Glamis Castle, Angus - There is said to be a ‘vampire child’ who was born in the castle and kept in a secret room. Another vampire legend tells of a woman who worked in the castle and was caught drinking blood from a body and was punished by being walled up alive in a secret room, where she remains to this day.

• Melrose Abbey, Scottish Borders – Reportedly, during the 12^th century an unpopular priest lived at the abbey. He was a rule-breaker and nicknamed Hunderprest because he preferred hunting with dogs rather than serving God. After he died and was buried on the grounds, it’s alleged Hunderprest rose from his tomb, wailing and drinking the blood of the nuns. One night, as the undead priest rose again, the other priests beheaded him, cremated him and scattered his ashes to the wind.
• Blair Atholl, Perthshire - A local tale describes how two poachers were attacked by a blood sucking creature while they slept in a bothy near Glen Tilt. The pair fought the creature off after which it flew away into the night or accounts claim it simply vanished.

Another interesting Dracula connection is through Emily Gerard, an author born in Jedburgh, Scottish Borders and lived in Airdrie, North Lanarkshire. She was the first person to bring the word "nosferatu" or "vampire" into use in western Europe. She studied and wrote about Transylvanian folklore having married an Austro-Hungarian chevalier, who was stationed in a small town there. Gerard’s collection of Transylvanian myths and legends are known to have influenced Stoker's Dracula. 

 

For more information about Scotland’s Year of Stories 2022 visit: https://www.visitscotland.com/about/themed-years/stories/ 

 

GLASGOW SUMMER LAUNCHES WITH BELVEDERE ORGANIC INFUSIONS AT THE SOCIAL

WE can always tell when summer is here because it’s time to get out the shades and Belvedere Organic Infusions. 

 The Social in Glasgow, launched its brand new terrace in conjunction with Belvedere to bring the colour, scents, sounds and delicious flavours of a vibrant European street scene to the heart of the city.

 

The stunning new outdoor terrace, located in the heart of Royal Exchange Square, is a real people  watching paradise and the perfect alfresco destination, offering fun with friends, and the celebratory spirit of summer in a glass. 

A beautiful botanical-themed bar, dressed with striking floral décor, rustic crates of fresh seasonal fruits, and dramatic bouquets of herbs, will complement the terrace.

We sampled the latest organic infusions courtesy of Belvedere alongside some of their food offerings and they were delicious. 

Guests visiting The Social can enjoy sampling of the new spritz cocktails on the terrace every Friday between 4pm and 8pm, beginning Friday the 20th of May, and running for six weeks.

Made with 100%-certified organic fruits, flowers, herbs and honey, and with ingredients that are farmed with no artificial pesticides, additives, or chemicals, the natural taste of each ingredient in the Belvedere Organic Infusions range is unique, intriguing and intensely delicious.

 

Cocktail lovers can enjoy the taste of summer courtesy of The Social’s renowned drinks expert Roddy Coyle who has curated a Belvedere Organic Infusions menu especially for the terrace, and with combinations not typically found in vodka. Signature serves are based on the new Belvedere Organic Infusions range: Pear, Ginger with a drop of Linden honey, Lemon, Basil with a touch of elderflower, and Blackberry, Lemongrass with a hint of sage.

 

The three new summer cocktails created by Roddy, at £9.25each, are:

 

Pear & Ginger Spritz – Tropical / Fresh / Elegant

Belvedere Organic Infusions Pear & Ginger | Soda | Cucumber Ribbon | Sprig of Fresh Rosemary

 

Blackberry & Lemongrass Spritz – Crisp / Effervescent / Fruity

Belvedere Organic Infusions Blackberry & Lemongrass | Soda| Fresh Blackberries / Sprig of Fresh Mint

 

Lemon & Basil Spritz – Fruity / Vibrant / Zingy

Belvedere Organic Infusions Lemon & Basil | Pink Grapefruit Soda| Lemon | Fresh Basil Leaf

Adding to the sensory thrill of the Belvedere Organic Infusions Terrace at The Social and its Mediterranean-esqedécor, is outdoor heating for when day becomes night, and the finest summer soundtracks every Friday by The Social’s resident DJs; Steve Le Mash, 6pm until 9pm, and Ross McIntosh, 9pm until 3am.

 

Belvedere Organic Infusions Terrace at The Social; a chic new on-street destination, perfect for brunch with friends, all-day dining, or spontaneous summer evening vibes with a Belvedere Organic Infusions cocktail in hand.

 

 

ABOUT BELVEDERE 

Made from Polish rye, purified water and a distillation process by fire, Belvedere contains zero additives, in accordance with the legal regulations of Polish Vodka that dictate nothing can be added, is certified kosher and gluten free. Produced in one of the world’s longest operating Polish distilleries that has been making vodka since 1910, Belvedere’s Master Rye Distillers draw from a 600-year Polish vodka-making history to artfully craft Polish rye into dynamic vodkas of distinct taste and character. All vodkas are gluten-free*. For more information visit https://www.Belvederevodka.Com

*Https://nationalceliac.Org/frequently-asked-questions-about-alcohol-on-the-gluten-free-diet/

 

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY

THE IVY EASTER SPECIAL MENUS WILL MAKE YOU BUNNYHOP

The Ivy Buchanan Street has launched an Easter Specials menu to celebrate  Spring. 

 

We love getting into the spirit of Easter and The airy is one of those restaurants that makes theshowbizlion.com roar. 

Nothing can beat it’s special atmosphere, excellent service and tasty food - and for a special occasion - or an exquisite catch up with friends it’s the place to go. 

During these Covid conscious times it’s spacious enough to give you breathing room too. 

The stylish eaterie  is celebrating the Easter season with a series of delicious specials incorporating limited edition cocktails, a spring lamb dish and showstopping Easter Nest dessert. 

The enticing offering will be available to guests for Easter weekend only (Friday, 15 until Monday, 18 April) alongside the brasserie’s inimitable classics, fusing fresh seasonal ingredients and delectable culinary twists.

 

The Grilled Lamb Cutlets (£25.95) will be served with a crushed pea and herb purée with slow-cooked  lamb shoulder, asparagus, baby courgette, sun-blush tomatoes, red wine and olive sauce, while chocolate lovers will go crazy for the Easter Nest (£9.25), a nod to the humble bird’s egg, featuring a divine chocolate sponge, piled with dark and white chocolate mousse and Kataifi pastry and topped off with chocolate eggs and lemon balm. 

 

Complementing the dishes in true style is the limited edition cocktail menu – featuring an Easter twist on three classic aperitifs, a Chocolate Negroni (£10.25), an Easter Egg Martini (£10.95) and a White Rabbit G&T (£10.25).

 

To book a table visit TheIvyGlasgow.com

COLOURBOXX FESTIVAL CANCELLED AS FANS EXPRESS SURPRISE

 COLOURBOXX festival has been cancelled this summer in Bellahouston Park.

DF Concerts, who are also behind TRNSMT festival,  had planned  the day long festival with Becky Hill, Joesef, Berry Galazka, Bimini, HYYTS, Lawrence Chaney, and The Sugababes earlier this year and fans were excited for the pop centred line up. 

It will no longer happen - for the foreseeable.

DF Concerts told revellers in an online statement: "This event has been cancelled. Thank you so much for all the love and support you have shown Colourboxx so far.

We really hoped we would be coming to you with better news but, here’s hoping we will meet again to celebrate all things love, joy and unity with you.

"Love, Colourboxx x."

The event which was planned for the same day as Edinburgh Pride claimed of be a "vibrant wonderland where inclusivity and freedom of expression reign supreme", featuring drag acts across the UK and some of the country's most popular musicians.

Fans were left questioning the decision with some asking: "Does anybody know the actual reason Colourboxx in #Glasgow was cancelled? Their statement says jack all. Weird AF…"

Another lamented: "Gutted that colourboxx has been cancelled, had such a decent line up."

DOCTOR WHO DAVID TENNANT DISSED BY FORMER DOCTOR WHO PETER DAVIDSON AT EVENT

DOCTOR Who's David Tennant was dissed by former Doctor Who Peter Davison in front of his fans. 

Scots born David who recently filmed a new series of Good Omens in Edinburgh was at the Wales Comic Con. 

After hundreds of fans joined a queue for his official meet and greet, Peter Davidson decided to take to social media to tell him he was  'not that special'. 

The two men are actually related - with David's wife Georgia being Pete's daughter, so it was really all in jest. 

Georgia posted up a picture of Peter in Telford and he joined the queue. 

Peter said in his message: “Here I am protesting in front of the half mile queue for your husband” - #peterdavison #davidtennant #awkward @walescomiccon.

Peter wrote on a sign: "He's not THAT special

His confession brought more fans out in his favourite with one saying: : "Guarantee my daughter would be first in the queue to meet your dad again. Her love for him is boundless :)"

Another laughed: "So funny. Could Peter offer to help cut the queue time by taking the money for David - to be a good father in law - keep half himself and rubber stamp a David autograph for the tired end hot fans? Win Win!!"