In a new series, London’s leading arts figures reveal the books, films, TV and more they're loving in lockdown.
Film and theatre director Josie Rourke, known for her work as previous artistic director of the Donmar Warehouse theatre, gave us her recommendations, from Hilary Mantel's novels to The Americans.
Books
I am hoarding the new Hilary Mantel, The Mirror and the Light. First, I’m reading her earlier novel, A Place of Greater Safety — 800 pages of the French Revolution. When I need a laugh (which is frequently) I’m dipping into a volume of Nora Ephron’s essays, The Most of Nora Ephron.
Podcast
Karina Longworth’s podcast, You Must Remember This, is a source of Old-Hollywood scandal and joy. It was required listening for the cast of City of Angels (I directed the production of this brilliant musical that was about to open in the West End soon after lockdown began) during rehearsals. It has plenty of built-in movie recommendations you can watch alongside it. I will be revisiting Longworth’s jaw-dropping six-part series on the life of Joan Crawford.
If you want a series in her podcast to read as well as listen along to, Longworth’s take on the book Hollywood Babylon, Kenneth Anger’s scandalous font of Tinseltown (fake) news is well worth a listen and read.
TV
I never watched The Americans the first time around, so that’s my current box-set. Matthew Rhys is such a superb actor. It’s got just enough action, twists and Cold War torment to keep me hooked.
Music
Locked-down, I’m finding that my listening habits are ranging all over the place. So far this morning, it’s been Aretha Franklin followed by Bach’s Goldberg Variations.
I’ve got a punchbag in my back yard, which calls for the utilisation of my “cheese-and-jives” Eighties playlist. I listen to that while doing what my mum refers to as my “physical jerks”. Although bear in mind that this is the woman who called Bikram yoga “hot judo”.
Film
I’m holding my own Joan Crawford season to go with Longworth’s podcast. Grand Hotel tonight!
