Hi all. Reposting to include "Singapore" in the title.
I went on a solo trip to Chiang Mai, Thailand, about 6 years back when I was 21, and I loved it! Haven't had the chance to do it again because life and covid happened, and my ex, who's Singaporean, whom I dated for nearly 3 years, didn't want me to travel solo anywhere (not even JB??). Strange, because I met other solo female travelers at the hostel I was at, and some were attached. My ex told me I should ask other guys what they think of women who travel solo, and he didn't give me any direct answer as to why. He also said he would never travel solo himself.
Is it a conservative/Singaporean thing for someone to not want their partner to travel solo, or is it just a compatibility thing? I've been talking to other guys recently who say they're thinking of doing a solo trip.
Also, as a solo female traveler, any recommendations on places to go? Was considering the US, but not sure how bad the hate crimes towards Asians are there.

If you’d like to add an event to our calendar, submit an event here. Please check with the event organizers to see if events change due to weather. Have a great week!

Noteworthy Events

The Lion King at DPAC

• Winner of six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, this landmark musical event brings together one of the most imaginative creative teams on Broadway.
• Wed, May 15 - Sun, June 9
• $29.50+

Music in the Gardens: Ruckus Rock Revival at Sarah P. Duke Gardens (sold out)

• Featured Artists: Blue Cactus, Kym Register and Kamara Thomas
• Music in the Gardens concerts take place on the lawn behind the Doris Duke Center.
• Lawn chairs, picnics, and blankets are encouraged. Pets are not allowed. Outside food and beverages, including beer and wine, are permitted and will also be available for purchase on-site from The Palace International.
• Wed, May 29
• 7 p.m.
• Free admission

20th Annual Beaver Queen Pageant at Duke Park

• A special mix of folly, pageantry and humor, contestants take on beaver personalities and compete for the title of Beaver Queen with their fashion, talent and personality.
• Sat, June 1
• Free admission, with donations to the Ellerbe Creek Watershed Association encouraged.

Good Moon Festival at Durham Bulls Athletic Park

• Featuring Sylvan Esso, Fleet Foxes, DEHD, Hippo Campus, Reyna Tropical, Truth Club, and more.
• Fri, May 31 - Sat, June 1
• Day passes are $72.95+

Boxyard Birthday: Celebrating 3 Years! at Boxyard RTP

• Join us for a full day of music, markets, and more alongside your favorite Boxyard businesses. We are so proud to be a part of the Durham community, and today we’re celebrating YOU!
• Sat, June 1
• 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
• Free admission

Rescues & Rainbows Pet Adoption & PRIDE Event at The Velvet Hippo Bar & Lounge

• They'll be serving cocktails benefitting HOPE Animal Rescue and the LGBTQ Center of Durham during this afternoon pet adoption event in honor of National Foster a Pet Month and National PRIDE Month!
• Sun, June 2
• 1-3 p.m.
• Free admission

World Hunger Day Durham at Durham Central Park

• World Hunger Day Durham, NC, aims to raise awareness of food insecurity experienced in the community, as well as to highlight the amazing work being done to support residents and create a more fair and equitable food system.
• Sun, June 2
• 3-6 p.m.
• Free admission

Multi-Day Events

The Magnetic Fields – “69 Love Songs” 25th Anniversary Tour at The Carolina Theatre

• In celebration of the 25th anniversary of its release, the Magnetic Fields will continue to perform “69 Love Songs”—the 3-disc masterwork that marked a significant breakthrough for the American band—in its entirety over the course of two nights, for the first time in over two decades.
• Wed, May 29 and Thu, May 30
• 8 p.m.
• $37+

NCHSAA Softball Championships at Duke Softball Stadium

• Fri, May 31 - Sat, June 1
• $8+

Sylvan Esso 'Good Moon' After-party at PS37

• Featuring Suzi Analogue and Made of Oak. Must be 21+.
• Fri, May 31 - Sat, June 1
• 11-11:30 p.m.
• $10

Durham Amateur Golf Tournament at Hillandale Golf Course

• This event will be open to all golfers who have an established USGA handicap of ten (10.0) or less by the registration deadline.
• Sat, June 1 - Sun, June 2
• $125+

Durham Brick Convention Lego Event at Durham Convention Center

• Attractions: lots to see and do including large scale displays, activities, traders selling loose bricks, new LEGO® sets, retired LEGO® sets, minifigures & accessories plus dedicated building areas.
• Sat, June 1 - Sun, June 2
• Session I: 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
• Session II: 3 p.m. - 6 p.m.
• $15+

Historic Buildings Open House at West Point on the Eno Park

• Enjoy a look inside the historic McCown-Mangum House, Photography Museum, and Mill.
• Sat, June 1 and Sun, June 2
• 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
• Free admission

Movies at The Carolina Theatre

• Jurassic Park & Rollercoaster
• School of Rock
• Quadrophenia
• Hundreds of Beavers

Monday, May 27

Events at The Glass Jug in Downtown Durham

• 2-10 p.m. - Board Game Night
• 7:30-9:30 p.m. - Movie Mondays: Top Gun Maverick

9 a.m.
Heron Rookery Tour at Pearl Mill Preserve
5 p.m.
Arts & Drafts at Fullsteam Brewery
6 p.m.
Mantis Falls Demo at Atomic Empire
Disc Golf Putting League at The Glass Jug in RTP
6:30 p.m.
Trivia Night at Ponysaurus Brewing Company
7 p.m.
Monday Night Skate at Durty Bull Brewing Brewing Company
Community Board Game Night at Moon Dog Meadery
OnlyUs Media Presents: The Bank at Rubies on Five Points
8:30 p.m.
Karaoke at The House

Tuesday, May 28

Events at Boxyard RTP

• 5:30-6:30 p.m. - Boxyard Run Club
• 6-8 p.m. - Bark & Bond Social

Events at Durty Bull Brewing Brewing Company

• 12-8 p.m. - Food Truck: Mike's Vegan Cookout
• 7-9 p.m. - Bull City Beer Runners Run Club

Events at The Glass Jug Beer Lab in Downtown Durham

• 5:45-6:30 p.m. - Community Zumba Classes
• 6-8 p.m. - Music Bingo

Events at The Glass Jug Beer Lab in RTP

• 6-8 p.m. - The Glass Jog Run Club
• 6-9 p.m. - Stitch & Sip

6 p.m.
Queer Death Cafe at Arcana
Bring Your Own Vinyl with Jaffar at Rubies on Five Points
Women on the Wall at Triangle Rock Club - Durham
6:30 p.m.
Trivia at Durham Food Hall
7 p.m.
Trivia at Beer Study Durham
King Trivia Tuesdays at Boxcar Bar + Arcade
Not Rocket Science Trivia at DSSOLVR Durham
Tuesday Blues Jam at The Blue Note Grill
7:30 p.m.
North Carolina Jazz Repertory Orchestra at Sharp 9 Gallery
8 p.m.
Jeremy 'Bean' Clemons Trio at Kingfisher
Julia Holter at Motorco Music Hall
8:30 p.m.
Karaoke at The House

Wednesday, May 29

Events at Boxyard RTP

• 12-2 p.m. - Hear & There: Daniel Delorenzo
• 5:30-8:30 p.m. - Game Night

Events at ZincHouse Winery & Brewery

• 7-8 p.m. - Signature Wine Tasting
• 7-8:30 p.m. - Laughs Comedy Night

3 p.m.
Durham Farmers’ Market at Durham Central Park
Color Pencil Magic at The Scrap Exchange
4 p.m.
Whiskey Wednesdays at Alley Twenty Six
4:30 p.m.
Whiskey Omakase at Dashi
5 p.m.
Free Wednesday Wine Tasting at Beer Study Durham
6 p.m.
Tarot with Joy at Arcana
6:30 p.m.
Singles Mixer & Durham Meetup at The Glass Jug Beer Lab in Downtown Durham
Trivia Night with Pickle at The Glass Jug Beer Lab in RTP
7 p.m.
My Hero Academia TCG Girl Power Prerelease at Atomic Empire
Hammered Trivia at Hi-Wire Brewing
Karaoke Night at Mavericks Smokehouse
Music Bingo at Ponysaurus Brewing Company
Music in the Gardens: Ruckus Rock Revival at Sarah P. Duke Gardens
Brett Chambers Open Mic at The Blue Note Grill
8 p.m.
Air Hockey Tournament at Boxcar Bar + Arcade
Trivia Night at Bull McCabe's
The Devine Feminine Comedy Showcase at Devine's Restaurant and Bar
Old Havana Nights featuring Brevan Hampden at Missy Lane's Assembly Room
Karaoke at Moon Dog Meadery
The Coyotes / Stan and Denghy at The Pinhook
8:30 p.m.
Yot Club at Motorco Music Hall

Thursday, May 30

Events at Durty Bull Brewing Brewing Company

• 12-8 p.m. -Food Truck: Mike's Vegan Cookout
• 7-9 p.m. - Thursday Trivia with Nick

12 p.m.
Taking Back Thursday: Mysti Mayhem at Boxyard RTP
The Magnetic Fields Record Signing at Bull City Records
1:30 p.m.
Meeting Mastery One Session to Transform Your Meetings at Frontier RTP
3 p.m.
Guided Museum Tour at 21c Museum Hotels Durham
5 p.m.
Thirsty Thursdays at Dashi
5:30 p.m.
Walking Club with Bull City Strollers at The Glass Jug Beer Lab in Downtown Durham
6 p.m.
Mycelial Meet Up and Tarot with Emily at Arcana
Vinyl Night with DJ Deckades at Gizmo Brew Works
“Tango for Two” Dance Class at JB Duke Hotel
6:15 p.m.
Pony Run at Ponysaurus Brewing Company
6:30 p.m.
Line Dance Classes at Mystic Farm and Distillery
Boulders & Brews Meetup at Triangle Rock Club - Durham
7 p.m.
Trivia Night at Beer Tooth Taproom
Bring Your Own Vinyl Night at Congress Social Bar
Summer Jazz Jam (Curated by Al Strong) at Missy Lane's Assembly Room
Community Board Game Night at Moon Dog Meadery
7:30 p.m.
Trivia Night with Big Slow Tom at Clouds Brewing Brightleaf Square
8 p.m.
Weekly Single Mingle at Boxcar Bar + Arcade
Trivia at Fullsteam Brewery
Buck Meek (of Big Thief) at Motorco Music Hall
9 p.m.
Everybody Eats at The Pinhook
9:30 p.m.
Karaoke Night at The Tavern

Friday, May 31

Events at Durty Bull Brewing Company

• 5-9 p.m. - Food Truck: La Republica Taco Truck
• 8-11 p.m. - Open Mic Stand-up Comedy

Events at The Blue Note Grill

• 6-8 p.m. - The Duke Street Dogs
• 9:15 p.m. - Electric Carnival

Events at The Glass Jug Beer Lab in RTP

• 5-8 p.m. - Food Truck Friday
• 6-9 p.m. - Tom Neuhauser Music

Events at The Pinhook

• 7 p.m. - Rusty is 40: Jenny Besetzt / Opin / Riggings
• 10:30 p.m. - Night of 1000 Divas!

10 a.m.
Tasting at Ten at Counter Culture Coffee
Plant Propagation: Cuttings at Sarah P. Duke Gardens
12 p.m.
SFC 3 Mixed Martial Arts Pro Superheavyweight Bout at Durham Armory
Co-Working Social at The Glass Jug Beer Lab in Downtown Durham
5:30 p.m.
Friday Night Live: Emily Musolino at Boxyard RTP
6 p.m.
Dyke Night Pride Kickoff Party at Arcana
The Patio Dance Parties : Clueless Fridays at Unscripted Durham
6:30 p.m.
Ravnica Remastered: Two-Headed Giant Draft at Atomic Empire
Paint & Sip Pottery at Delores Pottery
Temple Grandin presents: Animals Make Us Human at Duke University Gross Hall
An Intimate Evening w/ Grammy Award Winner, Susan Carol at Missy Lane's Assembly Room
7 p.m.
Bird Trivia at Fullsteam Brewery
7:30 p.m.
BYOS (Bring Your Own Sketch) at Mettlesome
Michael Hawkins and the Brotherhood at Sharp 9 Gallery
8 p.m.
Stereo Reveries at DSSOLVR Durham
Karaoke! at Fullsteam Brewery
Small Town Murder Podcast 2024 Tour at The Carolina Theatre
9 p.m.
An Intimate Evening w/ Grammy Award Winner, Susan Carol at Missy Lane's Assembly Room
A Metal Show: Alpha Andromeda, Celaris, Hermaeous Mora and Dunktank at Moon Dog Meadery
Gimme Gimme Disco at Motorco Music Hall
Mall Rat in a Cage Goth Dance Party at Rubies on Five Points
Planet Rave at The Fruit
Sneaky Link Fridays at The House

Saturday, June 1

Events at Atomic Empire

• 11 a.m. - TopDeck Championship Series Invitational Qualifier
• 11 a.m. - Lorcana Draft: Ursula’s Return
• 11 a.m. - Kill Team Tournament

Events at Boxyard RTP

• 9:30-10:30 a.m. - Fitness Pop-up: Yoga
• 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. - Boxyard Birthday: Celebrating 3 Years!
• 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. - Boxyard Birthday Market
• 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. - Saturdaze: DJ Baptiste
• 12-3 p.m. - Jewelry Crafting
• 1-2 p.m. - Cupcake Decorating
• 5-8 p.m. - Peter Lamb Presents

Events at Durty Bull Brewing Company

• 1-8 p.m. - Food Truck: Death By Taco
• 1-7 p.m. - Triangle Vintage Market
• 4-6 p.m. - Live Music: Lake Chamberlain
• 7-9 p.m. - Back Porch Films Documentary Screening

Events at Fullsteam Brewery

• 1-3 p.m. - Sip and Solder Stained Glass Workshop
• 2-3 p.m. - Durham "Bullpen" Treasure Hunt

Distillery Tours and Tastings at Liberty & Plenty

• Every Saturday, 10-10:30 a.m. and 11-11:30 a.m.

Events at Mettlesome

• 7:30-8:30 p.m. - House Party
• 8:30-9:30 p.m. - Harold Night: Grand Finale

Events at The Pinhook

• 7 p.m. - Slater / Tony Velour
• 10:30 p.m. - Crank Dat Dance Party!

Guided Walking Tours with Triangle Adventures

• 2 p.m. - Downtown Durham Walking Tour
• 4 p.m. - Durham African American History Tour
• 6 p.m. - Downtown Durham True Crime Tour

8 a.m.
Cars and Coffee at 5425 Page Rd
Durham Farmers' Market at Durham Central Park
parkrun Durham at Southern Boundaries Park
9 a.m.
Walk for the Animals at Duke East Campus
South Durham Farmers' Market at Greenwood Commons Shopping Center
Naturally Wild presents Birding for QTBIPOC at Sarah P. Duke Gardens
10 a.m.
Wellness Fair with Performance of "This is My Brain on Anxiety: The Detailed Experience of an Anxious, Black Woman" at Hayti Heritage Center
11 a.m.
5th Anniversary Block Party at Rumors Durham
11:30 a.m.
Barrels of Fun Brewery Tasting w/ Seth at Bull City Solera and Taproom
12 p.m.
Crafternoons at Gizmo Brew Works
2:30 p.m.
National Prostate Cancer Awareness Basketball Tournament and Health Fair at Community Family & Life Recreation Center at Lyon Park
4 p.m.
Reception for Constellations: Forty Years of Explorations within Sacred Geometry at Horse & Buggy Press and Friends
6 p.m.
Bardo Bloom and Tarot with Virginia at Arcana
6:30 p.m.
Collin Williams at Missy Lane's Assembly Room
7 p.m.
Triangle Gay Men's Chorus Concert at Eno River Unitarian Universalist Fellowship
Nobody's Business with Nantahala at Huron Stage Music Venue
Beaux Mondes: Swinging Speakeasy Jazz at Succotash Southern & Creole Kitchen
7:30 p.m.
Private Event: Shop Closed at Moon Dog Meadery
The Stinging Blades at The Blue Note Grill
"The Memories I'm Bound To" (Art + Live Music) at The Fruit
8 p.m.
Nolan Taylor at Motorco Music Hall
The Monti: In Too Deep at The Carolina Theatre
9 p.m.
Collin Williams at Missy Lane's Assembly Room
Blind Tigers: Live Karaoke at Rubies on Five Points

Sunday, June 2

Events at Atomic Empire

• 11:30 a.m. - Digimon TCG: Evolution Cup
• 12 p.m. - Pokemon TCG Tournament

10 a.m.
Jazz Brunch at Lula & Sadie's
10:30 a.m.
Al Strong Presents Jazz Brunch at Alley Twenty Six
12 p.m.
Sunday Dollar Bin Sale for Charity at Rumors Durham
Farmers Market at ZincHouse Winery & Brewery
12:15 p.m.
Public Tour at Duke Chapel
1 p.m.
Black Farmers' Market at Durham Tech
Rescues & Rainbows Pet Adoption & PRIDE Event at The Velvet Hippo Bar & Lounge
2 p.m.
Speed Puzzling Mini Tournament at Boxyard RTP
Soul Sunday w/ DJ Soul at Congress Social Bar
Hammered Trivia with Casey at Durty Bull Brewing Company
3 p.m.
World Hunger Day Durham at Durham Central Park
Brick Convention: LEGO® Fan Event at Durham Convention Center
6 p.m.
Omar Star's Extragalactic Birthday Bash at Arcana
6:30 p.m.
Open Mic Night at Moon Dog Meadery
7 p.m.
Desi Banks: The Purpose Chaser Tour at The Carolina Theatre
AZUL / Animal Prince / Elora Dash at The Pinhook
9 p.m.
Raggae Sundayz at The House

Running Art Exhibits

Constellations: 40 Years of Explorations within Sacred Geometry by Steven Ferlauto at Horse & Buggy Press and Friends

• Sacred Geometry is an ancient field of physics whose equations are expressed through shape. Shape is a way to explore the universal fabric of our existence.
• Sat, May 4 - Sat, June 1
• Free admission

Cameron Elyse's Divine Nine Legacy Memoir Exhibition at Hayti Heritage Center

• The Divine Nine Legacy Memoir delves deep into the history of the National Panhellenic Council (NPHC) or "Divine Nine," a collective of nine Greek Letter organizations founded on May 10th, 1930.
• These organizations were born out of the necessity to provide a voice for Black American students within the collegiate space. United by principles of service, community, brotherhood, and sisterhood, the Divine Nine work collectively to uplift society through acts of service to underserved areas across the nation.
• Fri, Apr 19 - Sat, June 1
• Free admission

It Ain’t All Black And White at DAG Truist Gallery

• It Ain’t All Black and White is a photography exhibition that encourages us to consider emotions such as serenity, apprehension, yearning, and more.
• Captured by 11 dynamic photographers dedicated to documenting the fullness and complexity of Black life, this exhibition offers each of us an opportunity to see ourselves with renewed attention.
• Thu, Apr 25 - Sun, June 2

María Magdalena Campos-Pons: Behold at Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University

• María Magdalena Campos-Pons: Behold is a monographic exhibition of a visionary voice in photography, immersive installation, painting and performance.
• Thu, Feb 15 - Sun, Jun 9
• Every week, Tue-Sat 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun 12-5 p.m.
• Free admission

Ley Killeya: Solitary Women at 5 Points Gallery

• 5 Points Gallery in downtown Durham invites you to appreciate Chapel Hill artist Ley Killeya's engaging exhibition featuring vibrant and thought-provoking paintings, exploring themes of identity, belonging, vulnerability, and acceptance, particularly for people from marginalized communities.
• Fri, May 17 - Sat, June 15
• Free admission

Counterpoints at Durham Bottling Co.

• Counterpoints is a curated showcase of local AAPI (Asian American Pacific Islander) artists, delving into the convergence of AAPI identity and mental health. Inspired by the intricate layers of musical counterpoint, its purpose is to weave together diverse narratives and confront the stigma surrounding mental health within our communities.
• Wed, May 1 - Sun, June 16
• Mon - Fri, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Message in a Bottle: The art of Christopher Philips Haile, 1947–1998 at Horse & Buggy Press and Friends

• This exhibit, curated by the artist's brother Roger Haile, includes over 60 artworks archived for the past 26 years.
• Sat, May 25 - Sat, July 13
• Free admission

31 May (Fri) Update: Everything in till 6th Jun, see post comments for sun-thu list.

24 May, Fri - truncated

• Ricky Montgomery for BLOCK A ft hongjoin, Pasir Panjang Power Station, $95
• DJ, ESPLANADE: SG Lewis ft Luke Alessi (DJ Set) pres by Collective Minds, Esplanade Annexe Studio, $88
• Piano Recital by Dang Thai Son (VN 🇻🇳), Victoria Concert Hall, $25
• Ballet: SWAN LAKE by Saint Petersburg National Ballet Theatre - day 1 of 2, the theatre @ mediacorp, $88
• SG Chinese Cultural Center / C-Pop : TGIF Music Station x YES 933, - ft Wong Jinglun 黄靖伦、Tay Kexin 郑可心、Ranen Hum 范平泽、Psquare 四方行及 Yuhua Secondary 裕华中学的学生, SCCC Concourse @ 1 Straits Blvd, Ground floor, free
• Emo Pop-Punk: Grey & Enamore (ID 🇮🇩) ft Line Drive & Late Culture, new venue,$20
• Indie Hardcore Punk Short Notice Hardcore #1 - Righting Wrong (ID🇮🇩), Jahil7, Inkorruptibles, Phil's Studio @ High Street Centre L3, $20
• Pianoland Westgate: Pianist Sueli Tang ft Czarina Oswald-Lim (young elsa in Frozen the Musical Broadway) - Grand Opening 11am-130pm, Westgate Level 2 Atrium, free
• Jazz Loft: SWING JOURNAL (crossover jazz with asian flavours), Blu Jaz L3 @ bali ln, $24
• Maduro Jazz: Swing & Latin Jazz by Daniela Ruggieri Trio (IT 🇮🇹), maduro @ sofitel sentosa, $38++ drink credits
  
• Party Zone Truncated
  
• DJ Rave: ♫꒰･‿･๑꒱ LIVE LAUGH LOVE RIOT ٩(◕‿◕｡)۶ - adultsdoharddance x hyperfocus x subplotsystems - ft BULMA (FES 🇫🇷🇪🇪), Tikkoii (ID🇮🇩), Shielhiel (MY 🇲🇾), Turbo Boyfriend, High House Rooftop Lounge 🗼@ 1 Raffles Place, $48
  
• DJ, BTGD: GrooveTop - RAAJ, Dee & Ya5th - underground dance to funk, Behind The Green Door SG - Cocktail Bar & Club @ 97 Duxton Road, $30
  
• DJ, ARK11: TCHUNO (MY 🇲🇾future house & techno) , Club @ Orchard Central Mall L11
  
• DJ, HQ: Thugshop Presents - EMILY JEANNE (BE🇧🇪, broken beat, bass, techno), headquarters techno-house club @ 66A boat quay, $36
  
• DJ, Tuff: ØGravity x Soul Collective Presents - SABO (US 🇺🇸 tribal organic house) ft Krio, tuff club @ 138 robinson rd cbd, $42
   
  

25 May, Sat - Africa Day, truncated

• Esplanade: Virtuose de la harp - Xavier de Maistre (FR 🇫🇷) pres. by Singapore Symphony Orchestra, Esplanade Concert Hall, $15
• SG Composers x TENG Ensemble 20th anniversary - The Singaporean Composers Series 起承转合 Day 1 of 2 - ft George Leong, Dr Kelly Tang, Chok Kerong, Evanturetime, Nathanael Koh, Bang Wenfu & more, SCCC Auditorium @ 1 Straits Blvd, $28
• Singapore Chinese Orchestra: SCO Goes to VivoCity, VivoCity (harbourfront), $4
• Singapore Symphony Children’s Choir : The Poetry of Song, Victoria Concert Hall, $20
• ONE Chamber Choir: 7byONE: vis-à-vis, The Arts House, $34
• The Random Clarinet Ensemble: Emotive Reverie, 10 Raeburn Park, B1, $15
• Maduro Jazz: An Antonio Carlos Jobim Evening (bossa nova icon) by Weixiang Trio, maduro @ sofitel sentosa, $38++ drink credits
• Blu Jaz: Hiro Maekawa Quartet, Blu Jaz @ bali ln, bar
• Pianoland Grand Opening: Likie Low - EDM & Chinese Erhu ft Mandopop busker Jeff Ng, Westgate Atrium Level 2, free
• Funk Soul Blues Fest @ Tampines Hub: Every Little Thing - ft Indigo, Babes Conde & Friends, Nick Zavior, Solid State + Varsha, hosted by Najip Ali, Our Tampines Hub, free
   
  
• Indie Post-Rock Fest: Disrupt.Co pres: THE GATHERING - feat. A BURIAL AT SEA (IE 🇮🇪), Tranquil, 7nightsatsea, Sun Eater, Amateur Takes Control, Monda(e), Paint the Sky RED, Kaji, SCAPE Orchard Ground Theatre, $45
  
• Metal Gig: 20 Years of Deus Ex Machina (prog death 🇸🇬) - ft Metal Gunz (heavy metal), Where The Dead Gather (deathcore, groove), RESERATE (metalcore), Heremod (blackened death), Phil's Studio @ High Street Centre L3, $32
  
• Hiphop Rnb Live + DJ Afterparty, VIBENIGHTS Volume III - SG 🇸🇬: Opus Renegade, acapslim, Mex Jr. LEFTMIND MY 🇲🇾: Hao You, Blckywacky, Zimmy E, Rezaray - DJs: Zazzles, Sirkid, Shane2Sweet, DeeJay XG, Element Studio 12 Ann Siang Rd, $20
  
• Synth Electronic Open Jam: Synth Commune Singapore at Tanglin, Tanglin Community Club, B1, @ 245 Whitley Rd, free
  
• Indie Ska Folk Surf Rock: Blush Hotel - We Want The World And We Want It Now - ft Banana Foster, Rici Bell, 1-800-Wicked, $10
   
  
• DJ, Art Exhibition Opening and Mini Rave: Kaleidoscope x The Night Ascent: Exhibition Reception - DJ Lexi (hyperpop set), Guest DJ Bodhi, DJ Ah Lian Jiejie , Lucky Hall @ 195 Pearl's Hill Terrace L2 , free
  
• Public Art Jam & DJ Set: ARTLETICS - A Celebration of Youth and Urban Culture - Day 1 of 2 - DJ Set by Day 1 by Intriguant, Day 2 Set by Kiat, Somerset Skate Park, free
  
• DJ, Dubrunner (UK 🇬🇧 Breaks, UK bass) pres by North East Social Club , tuff club @ 138 robinson rd, $43
  
• DJ, Behind the Green Door SG KONFLICT - Antares & Auric (deep melodic-progressive) ft James Selva, 97 Duxton Road, $37
  
• DJ, Fate by Have Fun: CORAZÓN (Reggaeton, Guaracha and Party Anthems) pres by Pulse SG, asian style club @ orchard cineleisure L8, $20
  
• DJ HQ: RADIO SLAVE (DE 🇩🇪 house & techno), headquarters techno-house club @ 66A boat quay, $36
   
  

26 May, Sun - truncated

• Indie Rock Fundraiser Fest: ROCK FOR NOAH’S ARK 2024 - Subsonic Eye, Pleasantry, Suneater, Woes, Krunkle, CARACAL, animal shelter, Blackbird Music Bar @ Gillman Barracks, $38
• Victoria Concert Hall OPEN HOUSE by SSO

 

27-29 May, Mon to Wed truncated for word limit :/

 

30 May, Thu

• Jooyoung 김주영 2024 World Tour, Esplanade Annexe Studio, $98
• Classical: Highly Strung - by re:Sound Collective - Yang Shuxiang leads re:Sound in Pēteris Vasks second violin concerto, “Distant Light”, Victoria Concert Hall, $28
• NLB: Eugena Kwong in Recital (classical pianist) - Debussy, Liszt and Schubert, National Library Lobby (bugis), free
• Esplanade: oolfs & friends (soul pop to rock, singer-songwriter), Indoor Concourse, free
• Mad & Midas RNB Night with Jukuleles, cocktail bar @ 39 ann siang hill (maxwell)
• Candlelight: Candlelight: A Tribute to Rihanna - by VOX string quartet, CHIJMES hall (city hall), $58
  • Candlelight: A Tribute to Coldplay on Strings - by VOX string quartet, CHIJMES, left $100
• Simply Jazz: Rhapsody in Gershwin - Jazz & Chamber - Gatsby theme night, simply jazz bar @ CHIJMES, B1, batable
• Blu Jaz Cafe: Skunk Jive And Guest Jam Session (blues), Blu Jaz @ bali ln (bugis) free
• RGS Angklung & Kulintang Ensemble: Concert Nebula, Raffles Girls’ School (Secondary), free

 

• DJ, Behind the Green Door SG PRAV & LI.A - Sips & Dips (amapiano, hiphop, rnb, baile funk, breaks, house), Behind the Green Door @ 97 Duxton Road (maxwell), $25
• DJ: Offtrack Kaleidoscope: Bongomann — Offtrack Singapore, 34 North Canal Rd (bs hong lim park, clarke quay), music gastro bar
• ==Tuckshop Drag Bar: DIVA 80's Music ft DJ Clammr, 51 Neil Road (maxwell), 🏳️‍🌈 lgbt drag bar-club==
• DJ, Cocktail Restrobar: JURA Sunset Sessions ft GLHF's MiggyT and Kasho.by Hazel's Guestist, Mr Chow's Aviary @ 9 Duxton Hill (maxwel)
• DJ, MOONSTONE Bar Secret Pals (PH SG collective) - House, Disco & Funk to Garage, Baile Funk & Amapiano, Moonstone BAR @ 103 Amoy St, free/ bar
• DJ, HighHouse: Not your Classic Whisky Night w DJ Zushan , High House Rooftop Lounge 🗼@ 1 Raffles Place (old 1-altitude), free

Other Events

• Till 9 Jun Musical: Hamilton by Lin-Manuel Miranda, marina bay sands, $80
• 30 May - 2 Jun: Theatre PEOPLE by Wild Rice (Rating : R18), Wild Rice at Funan Mall (city hall), $35
• 17 May - 2 Jun: Theatre Festival: SIFA Singapore International Festival of Arts
• 31 May - 23 Jun : i Light Singapore by URA (outdoor light display art around marina bay)
  • Food, Market, Music: Gastrobeats 2024, Bayfront Event Space at Marina Bay Sands, free
  • Performers rotation: 53a, Ctrl Chaos, Sopes, Jasper Parulan, Curry The Basil, Shirlyn & The Unexpected, Jumpstart, Tabula, Syltra Band, Nation One, Little Band Plus, Gaston Liew
• 31 May (Fri), 1 Jun: Momentum Dance Festival Showcase 2024: Bhumi, The Republic Cultural Centre (Woodlands North), $11
• 31 May: COMEDY NIGHT AT THE PROJECTOR - Prem John & Shawn Chua, the projector golden mile tower, $20
• 31 May: Objectifs Photography Closing: Talk - The Yearning for Harmony by Ryhan M.Y., info
• 31 May: Drag Movie: Bugis Street - The 90s SG Drag Movie Screening, Projector X Cineleisure Orchard
• 1 Jun (Sat): Chinese Comedy: 张骏 Zhang Jun, Singtel Waterfront Theatre at Esplanade, $58
• 2 Jun (Sun): LIONS HOME FUN(D) DRIVE 2024 AT THE SINGAPORE FLYER , Singapore Flyer (promenade mrt), free
• 6-28 Jun: Baby Queen - Singapore's 1st ever Feature Film about Drag & Live Drag Show afters, the projector golden mile tower, $33
• 6 Jun (Thu): Queer Comedy: SIAO CHAR BORS GO NKD! , Bar NKD @ 95 Club St , $19
• THE DEVIL'S PLAY - a dine-in theatre experience (PG13), Thursdays, 30 May - 20 Jun , Semma Bistro, 60 Springside Walk (springleaf) ,$50
• CHINESE THEATRE FEST Family Ed.
  • 19 May - 9 Jun: 《玩：泡泡菜！》Play With: Pickles!, 54 Waterloo Street (bras basah), $42
  • 26 May, 2 Jun: 《玩：小手拉大手》Play With: The More We Move Together!, 54 Waterloo Street (bras basah), $42
  • 1-9 Jun: 《早餐家族来咯：儿歌说故事！》Here Comes the Breakfast Kakis: Imagine Our Songs!, 54 Waterloo Street (bras basah), $34
• 3-6 June: Comedy - TREVOR NOAH: OFF THE RECORD TOUR, , The Star Theatre, The Star Performing Arts Centre,$108

 

31 May, Fri - i Light SG till 23 Jun - city night light installations

• 柯泯薰 - Misi Ke (TW 🇹🇼 folk-pop ), At Livehouse @ 10 Square (Orchard Central Mall L10, Somerset MRT), $88
• Death Metal Gig: Buried Alive, Volume 4 - ft Intestine Baalism (JP 🇯🇵), Reputdeath (MY 🇲🇾), Darah and Ursala, Phil's Studio @ High Street Centre L3 (clarke quay/city hall), tix 🎟 $35
• SCO: Chamber Charms: Night of Plucked-Strings 室内乐系列：弹拨乐之夜 (G), Singapore Chinese Orchestra at Singapore Conference Hall @ 7 Shenton Way ,$30
• Tutti! by VENTUS Wind & Band Academy Singapore (BAS), SOTA Concert Hall (bencoolen/dhoby), $25
• Jonathan Weigle Cello Masterclass & Concert - ft Fiore String Quartet, 10 Raeburn Park B1 (near old tg pagar railway station), $15
• NLB Woodlands: Emmanuel Symphony Orchestra's Open Rehearsal - Classical Notes meet Contemporary Films, Woodlands Regional Library - Auditorium, free
• Jazz & wine - Natasha Oong, Lobby Lounge of Intercontinental hotel, 80 middle rd (bugis), $38
• Manadala Club: Friday Night Live ft Dita Jacob (soulful powerhosue vocalist), member's club @ 31 Bukit Pasoh Rd, outram
• Cool Cats Jazz: Nita and Dian 🇮🇩 presents Ladies of Jazz - Day 2 of 3, nco club @ 32 beach rd (esplanade), $28
• Simply Jazz: Myra V & Trumpet Z, simply jazz club @ CHIJMES B1 (city hall)
• Jazz Loft: Pablo Calzado Quartet, Blu Jaz L3 @ bali ln (bugis), $24
• ==Maduro Jazz: Summer Prelude - A Tropical Duo Soirée by Rachma & Richard Jackson , maduro @ sofitel sentosa, $38++ drink credits==
• Gastrobeats at Bayfront Event Space bs Marina Bay Sands: In Conjunction with i Light, till 23 Jun, Main IG 📸, Today's Featured Performer - 53A, free
  • Side Festival: Rock & Paws Festival @ Gastrobeats - pet-friendly market place & music, same area,
  • Performers rotation: 53a, Ctrl Chaos, Sopes, Jasper Parulan, Curry The Basil, Shirlyn & The Unexpected, Jumpstart, Tabula, Syltra Band, NationOne, Little Band Plus, Gaston Liew
• Alt Rock to Skate Punk Gig: It’s Gonna Be A Long Nite Vol 5 - ft Iman's League pre Japan-Korea Tour Gig, Uranophobia, 83 Inc, Sugar, Razmy of Kranky Doodle, rad studio 345, $10 doors

 

• SIFA - Singapore International Festival of Arts 2024
• Multi-disciplinary: REFUGE by The Observatory (the SG experimental prog band collective) - day 1 of 2, SOTA Studio Theatre (bencoolen/dhoby ghaut), $48
• Theatre: The Prose and the Passion by Haresh Sharma & Chong Tze Chien (SG) - Day 1 of 3, Victoria Concert Hall, $38
• Tomorrow and Tomorrow Day 1 of 2 - showcase of theatre companies in Singapore, at Stamford Arts Centre 155 Waterloo St (bugis), all free but $20 refundable deposit
  • Centre 42: Social Distancing Ambassadors by Zulfadli Rashid, still open
  • Teater Ekamatra: Territori by Nabilah Said, full
  • The Theatre Practice: Performing The Director’s Notes: All The World’s A Sea, full
  • Singapore Theatre Company: Myles: The Perfect Soulmate, full
• ESPLANADE: Experimental Beach Opera - Sun & Sea by Rugilė Barzdžiukaitė, Vaiva Grainytė & Lina Lapelytė (LT 🇱🇹) - Day 2 of 3, Esplanade Theatre, $68 SRO

 

• ESPLANADE - Flipside: Circus Comedy, Physical Theatre, Puppetry till 9 jun
• ES Music: Lorong Boys - Flippin’ It Up! - local fusion, classical, jazz, Indoor Concourse, 730pm 9pm,free
  • ES Roving Theatre: Big Mob by Bedlam Oz - 1 of 3, Roaming Around Esplanade, 630~ 830pm free
• ES Circus Show!: Convergence by Bornfire Circus - 1 of 3, Outdoor Theatre, 7pm 930pm free
• ES Aerial Acrobatics: Aerial Open Stage by Various Artists, Outdoor Theatre, 815pm, free
• ES Comic Object Theatre: Stars in Our Eyes – A Double Bill by Compagnie Bakélite (FR🇫🇷) - day 1 of 3, Recital Studio, 8pm $38

 

• Others
• Open Mic: SG Singersongwriters Band Jam, The Upper Room Restaurant & Cafe - 115 King George's Avenue, IG 📸
• French Theatre: The Theatre Ensemble fait son show - 1 of 2, Alliance Française de Singapour, 1 Sarkies Road (newton mrt), $48
• Dunman High School Symphonic Band: Rhythm XXXIII, Dunman High Performing Arts Centre, $10
• Open Mic Night @ Marymount CC) - feat phfew (alt rock)

 

• Party Zone
• DJ, .WAV(Y) Remixed pres. LOVE SIX (AT 🇦🇹 Dancehall, Hiphop, Baile Funk, Afro, RnB) with PRAV, XG & KNRCK, Mortar & Pestle rooftop bar @ 269 South Bridge Rd, tix 🎟 $22
• DJ, Secret Pals pres. Arthur Tan (PH-NYC 🇵🇭🇺🇸 emergent club scenes - from indie house to ukg, baile), the projector golden mile tower, tix 🎟, $20
• DJ, Culture X WhoHurtYou❓ pres. Homecoming Part 1 ft My Chemical Romance tribute (emo pop-punk night), Projector X Golden Village No Spoilers Box Office Bar @ Cineleisure Orchard L5, $31
• DJ, New Nakhra : Bollywood vs Kollywood, Magic Carpet Bollywood Lounge @ 7500E Beach Rd (opp. Haji Ln), $30
• DJ, Spades: Royal Flush (Hiphop, Pop, R&B, EDM) - DJ Belle & Ryson, Sector 26 Club - 5 Koek Road @ Cuppage Plaza B1 (somerset MRT), IG 📸 $32
• DJ, Club Hell: EDM in Hell, 🏳️‍🌈 gay lgbt club @ 113 telok ayer st
• DJ, Foreplay - Bottoms Up, 🏳️‍🌈 gay event, drip club @ 100 Orchard Rd Concorde Hotel, $38
• DJ, Noa Lounge: URBAN GLAM @ NOA LOUNGE with party social (hip hop, rnb and top 40s), Noa by Olivia - Lounge & Restaurant @ 83 Neil Rd (maxwell)
• DJ, Here Kitty Kitty Bar: FRESH Fridays - 00s Hip Hop, R&B, Reggaeton, Cocktail Bar at The Cannery @ Clarke Quay, L2
• DJ, Offtrack: Nez Senja (Soul, House and Bass), 34 North Canal Rd (bs hong lim park, clarke quay), music gastro bar
• DJ, Potato Head: Seng Wei (house & disco), 36 Keong Saik Rd, bistro bar
• DJ, Kult Yard DJ Chunk & Nassau, 195 Pearl's Hill Terrace (chinatown) arts enclave, courtyard bar
• ==DJ, No Sleep Club: Vinyl Only - DJ Zai (hiphop funk soul), cocktail bar @ 20 Keong Saik Rd==
• DJ, Vertigo 26: DJ KiDG of eatmepoptart (indie dance), music listening bar @ MINT Museum City Hall 26 Seah St, free/bar
• DJ, Tipsy Unicorn 🏖: Kate & Kidd Royale - ft Spruce on Sax, Beach Club 🏖 @ 36 Siloso Bch Walk (Sentosa)
• DJ, High House: MinGs & ANDRE MARC (melodic house & techno), Rooftop Lounge 🗼@ 1 Raffles Place, $38

 

• Club Events
• DJ, Kings of Bass presents DJ MARKY (BR 🇧🇷 liquid drum n bass sometimes disco), MDLR club @ 62 cecil street (tpi building), IG 📸 $40
• DJ, BTGD: One with Aldrin, ft Erwin Linden (deep prog house n techno to indie dance), Behind the Green Door SG bar club @ 97 Duxton Road (maxwell), $25
• DJ, Highh Club: Highh BPM ft Joshua Dillon (Hard Techno), at Pan Pacific Hotel, 7 raffles blvd (esplanade, promenade), $20
• Club Nights
  • DJ, Marquee: Hypersonic w DJ Fvder - dark techno, hard style and rave, nightclub @ marina bay sands shoppes, $20
  • DJ, Zouk: 100% Bulletproof Hiphop night + phuture & capital lounge, the famous sg club, clarke quay, from $35
  • DJ, Ce La Vi, Elevate with Godwin P & Lenoard T, marina bay sands hotel rooftop bar-club 🗼, $38
  • DJ, Cherry: Pop Your Cherry (edm), 133 cecil st (cbd)
  • DJ, Spotlight: Rave Singapore New Asian style hybrid nightclub, Gr.ID Mall at 1 Selegie Rd, B1 (bencoolen, dhoby)
  • DJ, Fate by Havefun: Bubble Fridays, asian style nightclub @ orchard cineleisure L8, $20
  • DJ, ARK 11: Entity Nights - DJs hanif, limmy, nicole (Hiphop, Pop and EDM), Nightclub @ Orchard Central Mall L11
  • DJ, Drip Club: Chambers (modern hiphop dj crew), drip club @ 100 Orchard Rd Concorde Hotel, tix 🎟
    • Other room is hosting an event from the party section
• DJ, ØGravity x Thugshop pres. - 19:26 (IT 🇮🇹 melodic techno), tuff club @ 138 robinson rd cbd, $36
• DJ, Unmute x Thugshop pres. - OCCA ( JP 🇯🇵 hypnotic driving techno) & VAIBS, headquarters techno-house club @ 66A boat quay,IG 📸 $36

01 Jun, Sat

• Tarcy Su 苏慧伦 (TW 🇹🇼 Mandopop & dreamy pop rock) - Flower of Life《生命之花》
• Rockestra® Concert in the Park : Club Mild (aka M1ldlife aka TakeTwo) , Owen Li (of The Island Voices), Shazza and SuperSonic, mix of indie, pop and rock, Fort Canning Green (Fort Canning Park - near Dhoby Ghaut side), free
• ==Opera at GBTB: Roses and Ballads: A Symphony of Blossoms in Singapore - ft six distinguished opera artists from Türkiye 🇹🇷 - day 1 of 2, Gardens by the Bay - Flower Field Hall, enter free==
• SG CPOP: 北緯⼀度° 1 Degree Off - ft Yokez 葉玉欞, Zadon 炸蛋, Ben Hum 范平庚, Ruth Kueo 魏妙如, aliwal arts centre (nicoll hwy), IG 📸 $30
• Mega Punk Gig: This is Friendship Forever - Opposition Party, Swindle, Class Sinners, Rejected Scum, Putrid Scum etc - Total 18 Bands too many to list, Lulian Pit (south-east), advised $40 to support
• Chill Indie Gig: Noru + Pleasantry , ask the bands, starts at 2pm, pay as you wish
• Indie Electronic Gig: SAMPLE THIS! Live ft MingZXC, Genesis Keefer, Monozerra, TOMO Blu, Phil's Studio @ High Street Centre L3 (clarke quay/city hall), tix 🎟 is a google form in IG bio here $20
• Maduro Jazz Lounge: The Magic of Cinema by Chee-Hang See - solo piano night, maduro @ sofitel sentosa, $38++ drink credits
• Cool Cats Jazz: Nita and Dian 🇮🇩 presents Ladies of Jazz - Day 3 of 3, nco club @ 32 beach rd (esplanade), $28
• Blu Jaz: Ernesto Castillo Quartet (CU 🇨🇺 guitarists' band), Blu Jaz @ bali ln (bugis), free/bar
• NLB Woodlands: Emmanuel Symphony Orchestra - Classical Notes meet Contemporary Films, Woodlands Regional Library - Auditorium, free
• SSO at ESPLANADE: Singapore Symphony Orchestra - Emperor Concerto and Symphonie Fantastique (beethoven, berlioz, koh) , ft Paul Lewis, comd Pierre Bleuse, Esplanade Concert Hall, $15
• Fusion: Disappearing Series...: Childhood Melodies of Yesteryears “消逝中...”：古早童谣叮当响 by Ding Yi Music Company, Contemporary Classical Music w Chinese, Malay, Indian sg folk songs, SCCC Auditorium @ 1 Straits Blvd (shenton way), $28
• The Singapore Youth Choir: SYC & Friends: 60 Years Young ft Wayfarer Sinfonietta - arvo pärt, whitacre, grases, Victoria Concert Hall, IG 📸 $27

 

• Gastrobeats i Light till 23 jun, at Bayfront Event Space @ Marina Bay Sands, main IG 📸, Today's Featured Performer: Curry The Basil (pop-punk hard rock), pet friendly, **free
• Blues Jam: Nineteen Eighty Studios' Strait Up Blues, 361 Joo Chiat Road L3, $20 with drinks
• Acoustic Reggae with Reggae Remedy (& ska, rocksteady), Alegria Restaurant & Bar latin asian fusion, at 18 Teck Lim Rd (maxwell)
• Musical Theatre Improv Les Musicables - Behind-the-Scenes: An Improvised Movie Musical Experience, Phil's Studio @ High Street Centre L3 (clarke quay/city hall), IG 📸 $25
• Dungeons & Dragons Gig?: TableMinis - D&D 50th Anniversary ft Those who Harp - Day 1 of 2, TableMinis at 10 Arumugam Rd L8 (macpherson mrt), free walk in
• Fundraiser Gig: The Horizon Foundation: Concert Violet - students for underprivileged - ft Thaarmin and more bands & singers, 8 Bulim Ave (lakeside, free shuttle bus from jurong east mrt), from $11
• Fundraiser Gig: Bonds That Overcome - RainbowAsia's Fundraising Gala 2024, 🏳️‍🌈 Projector X Golden Village No Spoilers Bar @ Cineleisure Orchard L5, 6-9pm, from $35
• A Capella meetup: Vocal Village presents... ACA Meet 6, Voices of Singapore @ Capitol Theatre B1 (city hall), $5
• Muddy Murphys Bar: Girls Like Mystery - britpop, indie and more ft Cronkite Satellite, Irish Pub at 442 Orchard rd, Claymore Connect (orchard mrt)
• ==Shawyard Bar: Ska Reggae Soul with Singapore Soul - Ska-turday Nights, 20 shaw rd (taiseng)==

 

• SIFA: Singapore International Festival of Arts
• Multi-disciplinary: REFUGE by The Observatory (SG experimental prog band collective) - day 2 of 2, SOTA Studio Theatre (bencoolen/dhoby), $48
• Theatre: The Prose and the Passion by Haresh Sharma & Chong Tze Chien (SG) - Day 2 of 3, Victoria Concert Hall, $38
• Tomorrow and Tomorrow Day 2 of 2 - showcase of theatre companies in Singapore, all at Stamford Arts Centre 155 Waterloo St (bugis), all free but $20 refundable deposit)
  • Centre 42: Headline Acts: Tomorrow’s News, open
  • Centre 42: Social Distancing Ambassadors by Zulfadli Rashid, open
  • Teater Ekamatra: Territori by Nabilah Said, full
  • The Theatre Practice: Performing The Director’s Notes: All The World’s A Sea, full
  • Singapore Theatre Company: Myles: The Perfect Soulmate, full
• ESPLANADE: Experimental Beach Opera - Sun & Sea by Rugilė Barzdžiukaitė, Vaiva Grainytė & Lina Lapelytė (LT 🇱🇹) - Day 3 of 3, Esplanade Theatre, $68 SRO

 

• ESPLANADE: Flipside - Circus, Comedy, Puppetry
• Singapore Symphony Orchestra's Emperor Concerto & Symphonie Fantastique, above, $15
• ES Music: SG's Top Debut - Preetipls and Shak'thiya, also on Mon, Indoor Concourse, 730pm 9pm, free
• ES Comic Object Theatre: Stars in Our Eyes – A Double Bill by Compagnie Bakélite (FR🇫🇷) - day 1 of 3, Recital Studio, 2pm, 7pm, $38
• ES Mime and Object Play: Ta Lent Show Theatre (TH🇹🇭) - Day 1 of 2, Indoor Concourse, 2pm 5pm, free
• ES Clown Show!: Who’s Our Next Clown? by Creatives Inspirit - Day 1 of 2, Indoor Concourse, 330pm, free
• ES Circus Show! : Convergence by Bornfire Circus - Day 2 of 3, Outdoor Theatre, 7pm 930pm, free
• ES Aerial Acrobatics: Aerial Open Stage - Day 2 of 3, Outdoor Theatre, 815pm, free
• free
  • ES Public Booth Crafts: Boing! Twist, Twirl & Turn (Craft Activity) by 7 dots and dashes, Indoor Concourse, free
  • ES Roving Theatre: Big Mob by Bedlam Oz - 1 of 3, Roaming Around Esplanade, 630~830pm free
  • ES Circus Easy Workshop: Introduction to the Rola Bola by Bornfire Circus, Rehearsal Studio, 11am, $18
• ES: Chinese comic: 张骏 Zhang Jun, $58

 

• SINGAIAL - The Brazilian Country Festival, Hollandse Club @ 22 Camden Park (botanic gardens), $28
• French Theatre: The Theatre Ensemble fait son show - 2 of 2, At Alliance Française de Singapour 1 Sarkies Road (newton), $48
• Market and DJ, DJ collective ♥ kopi cats ♥ - art sale the Meowket i, The Black Sheep Cafe (French Bistro) @ 18 norris rd (little india, jalan besar)
   
  
• Party Zone
  
• DJ, Cosmic City x WARPP showcase - BONDAREV (RU 🇷🇺), Aman Anand, mikki, Sandro, Himmat, RPDM, Matt H, Watch Her Bern - deep, hypnotic dreamy to dark and progressive, @ Mortar & Pestle rooftop bar @ 269 South Bridge Rd, from 2pm, IG 📸 $32
  
  • DJ, Africa Parties SG - Feel Africa: MADARAKA ft DJ Gillou & DJ SWTLKR , Mortar & Pestle rooftop bar @ 269 South Bridge Rd, from 1030pm, $20
• DJ, Loco Parties - CIVIL WAR - Kendrick Lamar vs Drake (hiphop goes without saying), Projector X Golden Village Ruby Lounge @ Cineleisure Orchard L6, $25
  
  • DJ, One Night In Seoul (KPOP night) by UNfilteredPresents, Projector X Golden Village No Spoilers Box Office Bar @ Cineleisure Orchard L5 , tix 🎟 $24
• DJ, Moonstone: EATMEPOPTART's The Kids Are Alright - unapologetic pop night - DJs YA5TH & Fantastic Dinosaur, BAR @ 103 Amoy St, free/table reservations
  
• DJ, Blu Jaz: AFRO LATINA - salsa, reggaeton, afrobeat, and more - DJs DaBishopOnDMixx, RV, Blu Jaz @ bali ln (bugis) L2, $15
  
• DJ, iki: Latino Anthem by Get Real - Reggaeton Latin Music All Night - DJs Jag, Naddz, Ollie Des, Wai, MC Hadi & Audi, club iki @ ikigai izakaya riverwalk (clarke quay), tix 🎟 $25
  
• DJ, Expat 101 - Motown Night in the City, , The Exchange Bar @ Asia Square Tower 1 (shenton way, downtown), $37
  
• DJ, Brown Roast - Vibe Pandrom (Kollywood, indian) ft. Adithya RK & DJ Gowtham, hard rock cafe cuscaden (orchard) 1030pm, $48
  
  • 🏳️‍🌈 Drag Party, Riot! Space, hard rock cafe cuscaden (orchard) 8pm, $15
• 🏳️‍🌈 DJ, Two Queens Asia - best of the 2000’s - Stay Gold with DJ Zack C, Bar NKD @ 95 club st (maxwell)
  
• 🏳️‍🌈 Party, HAUSWERK: All Tied Up - Temüjin 陳劭恆 Terry Tan on vox, DJ Thomas, ESTR, kink performance, Salud 19 Keong Saik Road (maxwell/outram), $25
  
• 🏳️‍🌈DJ, Unleash Circuit Bar: Unhinged ft Rai’s Playhouse (HK 🇭🇰) kink performance, Neil Conversion - Gay Bar @ 43 Neil Rd (maxwell), from $30
  
• 🏳️‍🌈 DJ, Pool 🏖 BYOT Bring Your Own Trunks - DJs DNLD, Poi, Akitokunt, Thomas & Drag, At W Singapore - Sentosa Cove, 21 Ocean Way, left $40
  
• DJ, Kult Yard Pulau ft DJs Gonzo & Malek, 195 Pearl's Hill Terrace (chinatown) arts enclave, courtyard b ar till 11pm
  
• Restaurant Party: Lucha Loco's Dusk Till Dawn - Tarantino-inspired fiesta - ft Drag and Beats by DJ Jaz, Lucha Loco @ 15 Duxton Hill (maxwell)
  
• DJ, Offtrack: Bongomann + Jas (leftfield house and breaks) , 34 North Canal Rd (bs hong lim park, clarke quay), music gastro bar restaurant
  
• ==DJ, No Sleep Club: Vinyl Only - DJ Chris of Wild Pearl (funk soul disco), cocktail bar @ 20 Keong Saik Rd==
  
• DJ, Potato Head PH10: Jason Soong (Nokal, Manila 🇵🇭) + David Jacob, 36 Keong Saik Rd, bistro bar
  
• DJ, Sand Bar ThePartyman and DJ Jason T, Sand Bar 🏖 @ 53 Siloso Beach Walk, Sentosa
  
• DJ, High House: Fred E & XTVA (trance & melodic techno), High House Rooftop Lounge 🗼@ 1 Raffles Place (old 1-altitude), $38
  
• DJ, Rumours Beach Club 🏖: RUSSH pres Secret Pals & Arthur Tan (PH 🇵🇭)- Funk rhythms to groovy Disco, house amapiano, Rumours Beach Club 🏖 @ 40 Siloso Bch Walk, Sentosa
  

 

• Club Events
• DJ, Marquee: W&W (NL 🇳🇱, edm), marquee nightclub @ marina bay sands shoppes, $40
• DJ, BTGD: The Souq - ft ORGANICS (Arab + Indian + Organic Ethnic), Himmat, TIM Engelhardt (DE 🇩🇪 house n techno) - A Silk Road Spice Box Symmetry, Behind the Green Door @ 97 Duxton Road (maxwell), $32
• DJ, Drip: INQUISITIVE (SG oriental hard dance rave icon), drip club @ 100 Orchard Rd Concorde Hotel, $27
• DJ, ARK 11: DJ TPA (KR 🇰🇷 edm), ARK 11 Club @ Orchard Central Mall L11, $20 with drinks
• DJ, Sigma Entertainment pres. Bounce - DJ Axeo, DJ Kelibre and Snickaz, Crazy Horse at Oxley Tower CBD (og bar-club orchard towers), 138 Robinson Rd L4, $25
• DJ, Club Rich: DJ Hande, Alekto, Hyde, MC Marcz, southeast asian club @ 114 middle rd (bugis)
• DJ, HQ: Thugshop pres. SHINEDOE (NL-NG 🇳🇱 🇳🇬 house n techno), headquarters techno-house club @ 66A boat quay, $36
• DJ, MISS HOMO: PRIDE - HAAi (AU 🇦🇺), RAUMTESTER (DE -RU 🇩🇪) Candice B, LoyBoy, , MDLR club @ 62 cecil street (cbd, tpi building), 🏳️‍🌈 house n techno queer rave eventbrite link from $22
   
  

Sunday onwards see comments

I am on telegram: search sg music chat or visit t.me/sgmusicchat

If you’d like to add an event to our calendar, submit an event here. Please check with the event organizers to see if events change due to weather. Have a great week!
See the full weekly calendar on our website.

Noteworthy Events

The Lion King at DPAC

• Winner of six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, this landmark musical event brings together one of the most imaginative creative teams on Broadway.
• Wed, May 15 - Sun, June 9
• $29.50+

Durham Bulls vs Memphis at Durham Bulls Athletic Park

• Tue, May 21 - Sun, May 26
• $10+

The Patio Dance Parties : Clueless Fridays at Unscripted Durham

• Every Friday night head up to the rooftop at Unscripted Durham to swim, dance, and gather with throwback 90's jams and killer cocktails.
• 6-10 p.m.
• Rooftop is 21+
• Free admission

Taste of Soul NC at Durham Central Park

• Food & Merchant Vendor Rodeo happening at Durham Central Park.
• There will be something for everyone including a DJ, bounce houses and axe throwing.
• Sat, May 25
• 3-8 p.m.
• Free admission

Durham Underground Market at Durham Central Park

• Enjoy this monthly series featuring new bands every month from Oak City Music Collective, 45+ local vendors, food trucks, workshops by Joy Worthy Co, beewine/bubbly from The Glass Jug and more!
• Sun, May 26
• 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
• Free admission

Sweet Tea: A Sunday Tea Dance Presented by Stormie Daie! at The Velvet Hippo Bar & Lounge

• Take your holiday long weekend to the next level with performances inside and out by Alex Thee Rabbit, Santos, G-Clef, and Stormie herself — featuring beats by Jorden The DJ.
• Sun, May 26
• 4-6 p.m.
• 21+ event
• Free admission

Multi-Day Events

Historic Buildings Open House at West Point on the Eno Park

• Enjoy a look inside the historic McCown-Mangum House, Photography Museum, and Mill.
• Sat, May 25 and Sun, May 26
• 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
• Free admission

Movies at The Carolina Theatre

• Ponyo
• Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga
• The Searchers & 3:10 to Yuma
• Dawn of the Dead
• The Best Years of Our Lives

Monday, May 20

9:30 a.m.
Discovery Paddle at Eno River
2 p.m.
Board Game Night at The Glass Jug in Downtown Durham
5 p.m.
Arts & Drafts at Fullsteam Brewery
6 p.m.
Disc Golf Putting League at The Glass Jug in RTP
6:30 p.m.
Silent Book Club at DSSOLVR Durham
Trivia Night at Ponysaurus Brewing Company
7 p.m.
We Still Skating Adult Skate Class at Durty Bull Brewing Brewing Company
Community Board Game Night at Moon Dog Meadery
8 p.m.
Monsoon at Rubies on Five Points

Tuesday, May 21

Events at Boxyard RTP

• 5:30-6:30 p.m. - Boxyard Run Club
• 6-7:45 p.m. - Music Bingo
• 6-7 p.m. - Book Club: Genre Challenge

Events at Durty Bull Brewing Brewing Company

• 12-8 p.m. - Food Truck: Mike's Vegan Cookout
• 7-9 p.m. - Bull City Beer Runners Run Club

Events at The Glass Jug Beer Lab in Downtown Durham

• 5:45-6:30 p.m. - Community Fitness Classes with YMCA
• 6-8 p.m. - Music Bingo

Events at The Glass Jug Beer Lab in RTP

• 6-8 p.m. - The Glass Jog Run Club
• 6-9 p.m. - Stitch & Sip

5:30 p.m.
Thomas Taylor's Third Tuesday Jam: The Music of Dizzy Gillespie at Sharp 9 Gallery
6 p.m.
Queer Talent Show at Arcana
Pints & Pups at Ponysaurus Brewing Company
Bring Your Own Vinyl with Jaffar at Rubies on Five Points
Dancing With The Carolina Stars Fundraiser at The Carolina Theatre
Women on the Wall at Triangle Rock Club - Durham
6:30 p.m.
Trivia at Durham Food Hall
6:35 p.m.
Durham Bulls vs Memphis at Durham Bulls Athletic Park
7 p.m.
Trivia at Beer Study Durham
King Trivia Tuesdays at Boxcar Bar + Arcade
Not Rocket Science Trivia at DSSOLVR Durham
Tuesday Blues Jam at The Blue Note Grill
7:30 p.m.
Eloquent Soul - Open Mic Night hosted by Dasan Ahanu at Missy Lane's Assembly Room
8 p.m.
Jeremy 'Bean' Clemons Trio at Kingfisher
Julia Holter at Motorco Music Hall

Wednesday, May 22

Events at Boxcar Bar + Arcade

• 7-9 p.m. - Monthly Pinball Tournament
• 8-10 p.m. - Air Hockey Tournament

Events at Boxyard RTP

• 12-2 p.m. - Hear & There: Daniel Delorenzo
• 5:30-8:30 p.m. - Game Night

Events at ZincHouse Winery & Brewery

• 7-8 p.m. - Signature Wine Tasting
• 7-8:30 p.m. - Laughs Comedy Night

2 p.m.
Film Screening — "Temple Grandin" at Durham County Main Library
3 p.m.
Durham Farmers’ Market at Durham Central Park
Seeing Without Eyes: Walking the Tightrope between Doubt and Belief at Rhine Research Center ~ Online
4 p.m.
Whiskey Wednesdays at Alley Twenty Six
5 p.m.
Free Wednesday Wine Tasting at Beer Study Durham
5:30 p.m.
"Take Tea Like a Bridgerton" Experience at JB Duke Hotel
6 p.m.
Figure Drawing and Tarot with Heiltje at Arcana
6:30 p.m.
Trivia Night with Pickle at The Glass Jug Beer Lab in RTP
6:35 p.m.
Durham Bulls vs Memphis at Durham Bulls Athletic Park
7 p.m.
My Hero Academia TCG Girl Power Prerelease at Atomic Empire
Hammered Trivia at Hi-Wire Brewing
Karaoke Night at Mavericks Smokehouse
Music Bingo at Ponysaurus Brewing Company
Brett Chambers Open Mic at The Blue Note Grill
8 p.m.
Trivia Night at Bull McCabe's
Karaoke at Moon Dog Meadery
Queer Country Night w/ Line Dancing + Country Karaoke at The Pinhook
10 p.m.
World Goth Day All Vinyl Dance Party at Rubies on Five Points

Thursday, May 23

Events at Durty Bull Brewing Brewing Company

• 12-8 p.m. -Food Truck: Mike's Vegan Cookout
• 7-9 p.m. - Thursday Trivia with Nick

12 p.m.
Taking Back Thursday: Mysti Mayhem at Boxyard RTP
1 p.m.
Botany Spotlight: Bamboo at Sarah P. Duke Gardens
Meet the Keepers at Sarah P. Duke Gardens
3 p.m.
Guided Museum Tour at 21c Museum Hotels Durham
5 p.m.
Night Market at American Tobacco Campus
Thirsty Thursdays at Dashi
5:30 p.m.
World Turtle Day Celebration at Piedmont Wildlife Center
Walking Club with Bull City Strollers at The Glass Jug Beer Lab in Downtown Durham
6 p.m.
Dyke Night and Tarot with Rene at Arcana
Dungeons n' Drafts at DSSOLVR Durham
Vinyl Night with DJ Deckades at Gizmo Brew Works
“Rhythms of the Rumba” Dance Class at Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club
6:15 p.m.
Pony Run at Ponysaurus Brewing Company
6:30 p.m.
Line Dance Classes at Mystic Farm and Distillery
Sacred Traditions: Exploring African-Based Spirituality at Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University
Boulders & Brews Meetup at Triangle Rock Club - Durham
DIY Charcuterie Class at Weldon Mills Distillery
6:35 p.m.
Durham Bulls vs Memphis at Durham Bulls Athletic Park
7 p.m.
Trivia Night at Beer Tooth Taproom
Bring Your Own Vinyl Night at Congress Social Bar
Sound Bath at Duke Memorial United Methodist Church
Summer Jazz Jam (Curated by Al Strong) at Missy Lane's Assembly Room
Community Board Game Night at Moon Dog Meadery
Periodic Tables: Beyond HIPAA – Mental Health Apps, Health Data, And Privacy at Motorco Music Hall
7:30 p.m.
Trivia Night with Big Slow Tom at Clouds Brewing Brightleaf Square
8 p.m.
Weekly Single Mingle at Boxcar Bar + Arcade
Trivia at Fullsteam Brewery
Megayacht / Hypnic Jerk at The Pinhook
9:30 p.m.
Karaoke Night at The Tavern

Friday, May 24

Events at Durty Bull Brewing Company

• 5-9 p.m. - Food Truck: Weizzie's Country Kitchen
• 8-11 p.m. - Open Mic Stand-up Comedy

10 a.m.
Tasting at Ten at Counter Culture Coffee
12 p.m.
Co-Working Social at The Glass Jug Beer Lab in Downtown Durham
5 p.m.
Food Truck Friday at The Glass Jug Beer Lab in RTP
5:30 p.m.
Friday Night Live: Emily Musolino at Boxyard RTP
6 p.m.
Jo & Lee Tarot with Emily at Arcana
Friday Night Makes at Durham Arts Council
Yonder at The Blue Note Grill
The Patio Dance Parties : Clueless Fridays at Unscripted Durham
6:35 p.m.
Durham Bulls vs Memphis at Durham Bulls Athletic Park
7 p.m.
Negativland + Sue-C Present "We Can Really Feel Like We're Here" at Motorco Music Hall
Tim Wells & Les Bons Temps — Cajun Dance Party at Succotash Southern & Creole Kitchen
7:30 p.m.
Recital: Spring Star-tacular at Barriskill Dance Theatre School
Members-Only Rose` Party at Missy Lane's Assembly Room
Keith Waters/Jon Metzger Quartet at Sharp 9 Gallery
8 p.m.
Stereo Reveries at DSSOLVR Durham
Karaoke! at Fullsteam Brewery
9 p.m.
Hush Hush at Mettlesome
Leo Album Release Party! at Moon Dog Meadery
Lip Sync 4 Ur Life + PHK Karaoke at The Pinhook

Saturday, May 25

Events at Atomic Empire

• 11 a.m. - Kings of War GT: Carolina Cryptid 2024
• 5:30 p.m. - Flesh and Blood: Part the Mistveil Prerelease

Events at Boxyard RTP

• 10-11 a.m. - Drag Story Hour
• 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. - Saturdaze: DJ k.ward
• 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. - Disco Differences: PopUp
• 12-2 p.m. - Cartoon Artist Pop-Up

Events at Durty Bull Brewing Company

• 1-8 p.m. - Food Truck: Lobster Dogs
• 1-6 p.m. - Art Day!

Distillery Tours and Tastings at Liberty & Plenty

• Every Saturday, 10-10:30 a.m. and 11-11:30 a.m.

Events at Mettlesome

• 7:30-8 p.m. - Bull City Press Presents
• 8-9 p.m. - Golden Age
• 9-10:30 p.m. - Secret Society Showcase

Events at Moon Dog Meadery

• 1-2 p.m. - Improv Jam
• 8-11 p.m. - A Metal Show: Bunker Hill Bloodbath, No Falks Given, Demiurge, Alpha Strain
• 8 p.m. - 12 a.m. - Outside: CoLaB on Fire

Events at The Blue Note Grill

• 3 p.m. - CHHS Mini-55th with the Reunion Band
• 7:30 p.m. - 8-Track Minds

Guided Walking Tours with Triangle Adventures

• 2 p.m. - Downtown Durham Walking Tour
• 4 p.m. - Durham African American History Tour
• 6 p.m. - Downtown Durham True Crime Tour

8 a.m.
Durham Farmers' Market at Durham Central Park
parkrun Durham at Southern Boundaries Park
9 a.m.
South Durham Farmers' Market at Greenwood Commons Shopping Center
9:30 a.m.
Women's Introduction to Standup Paddleboarding at Falls Lake
10 a.m.
Party for the Planet at Museum of Life and Science
Flower Portraits at Sarah P. Duke Gardens
12 p.m.
Crafternoons at Gizmo Brew Works
3 p.m.
Taste of Soul NC at Durham Central Park
4 p.m.
Mystic Medieval Knights at Mystic Farm & Distillery
5 p.m.
Opening Reception - Renzo Ortega "Acts of Serenity" at Craven Allen Gallery
6 p.m.
Tarot with Heiltje at Arcana
Doodle Jam at Lonerider Distillery and Taproom
6:30 p.m.
Blackhawk Quintet at Missy Lane's Assembly Room
6:35 p.m.
Durham Bulls vs Memphis at Durham Bulls Athletic Park
7 p.m.
The Lofi Lounge at American Underground
7:15 p.m.
Sunset Float at Falls Lake
7:30 p.m.
Full Moon Fever Bike Ride at American Tobacco Trail
Recital: Spring Star-tacular at Barriskill Dance Theatre School
MOSS: Theo Bleckmann, Peter Eldridge, Lauren Kinhan, Jo Lawry, Kate McGarry at Sharp 9 Gallery
9 p.m.
Blackhawk Quintet at Missy Lane's Assembly Room
Boston 168 at The Fruit
10 p.m.
House of Black Dance Party at The Pinhook

Sunday, May 26

10 a.m.
Jazz Brunch at Lula & Sadie's
10:30 a.m.
Al Strong Presents Jazz Brunch at Alley Twenty Six
11 a.m.
Durham Underground Market at Durham Central Park
12 p.m.
One Piece TCG Tournament at Atomic Empire
Sunday Dollar Bin Sale for Charity at Rumors Durham
Farmers Market at ZincHouse Winery & Brewery
12:15 p.m.
Public Tour at Duke Chapel
2 p.m.
Soul Sunday w/ DJ Soul at Congress Social Bar
Hammered Trivia with Casey at Durty Bull Brewing Company
Hillandale Golf Beginner Clinic at Hillandale Golf Course
4 p.m.
IAR Adopt-a-Dog Fundraiser at Boxcar Bar + Arcade
Sweet Tea: A Sunday Tea Dance Presented by Stormie Daie! at The Velvet Hippo Bar & Lounge
5:05 p.m.
Durham Bulls vs Memphis at Durham Bulls Athletic Park
6 p.m.
Ann Arader and Tarot with Rene at Arcana
6:30 p.m.
Open Mic Night at Moon Dog Meadery
8 p.m.
Beloved Presents: Innerworlds at Rubies on Five Points

Running Art Exhibits

Constellations: 40 Years of Explorations within Sacred Geometry by Steven Ferlauto at Horse & Buggy Press and Friends

• Sacred Geometry is an ancient field of physics whose equations are expressed through shape. Shape is a way to explore the universal fabric of our existence.
• Sat, May 4 - Sat, June 1
• Free admission

Cameron Elyse's Divine Nine Legacy Memoir Exhibition at Hayti Heritage Center

• The Divine Nine Legacy Memoir delves deep into the history of the National Panhellenic Council (NPHC) or "Divine Nine," a collective of nine Greek Letter organizations founded on May 10th, 1930.
• These organizations were born out of the necessity to provide a voice for Black American students within the collegiate space. United by principles of service, community, brotherhood, and sisterhood, the Divine Nine work collectively to uplift society through acts of service to underserved areas across the nation.
• Fri, Apr 19 - Sat, June 1
• Free admission

It Ain’t All Black And White at DAG Truist Gallery

• It Ain’t All Black and White is a photography exhibition that encourages us to consider emotions such as serenity, apprehension, yearning, and more.
• Captured by 11 dynamic photographers dedicated to documenting the fullness and complexity of Black life, this exhibition offers each of us an opportunity to see ourselves with renewed attention.
• Thu, Apr 25 - Sun, June 2

María Magdalena Campos-Pons: Behold at Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University

• María Magdalena Campos-Pons: Behold is a monographic exhibition of a visionary voice in photography, immersive installation, painting and performance.
• Thu, Feb 15 - Sun, Jun 9
• Every week, Tue-Sat 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun 12-5 p.m.
• Free admission

Ley Killeya: Solitary Women at 5 Points Gallery

• 5 Points Gallery in downtown Durham invites you to appreciate Chapel Hill artist Ley Killeya's engaging exhibition featuring vibrant and thought-provoking paintings, exploring themes of identity, belonging, vulnerability, and acceptance, particularly for people from marginalized communities.
• Fri, May 17 - Sat, June 15
• Free admission

Counterpoints at Durham Bottling Co.

• Counterpoints is a curated showcase of local AAPI (Asian American Pacific Islander) artists, delving into the convergence of AAPI identity and mental health. Inspired by the intricate layers of musical counterpoint, its purpose is to weave together diverse narratives and confront the stigma surrounding mental health within our communities.
• Wed, May 1 - Sun, June 16
• Mon - Fri, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Looking to get some advice on the current itinerary:

• Fly into Penang
• Day 1 Penang
• Day 2 Penang
• Day 3 Travel to Ipoh / Cameron Highlands
• Day 4 Travel to KL
• Day 5 KL
• Day 6 KL
• Day 7 KL to Malacca
• Day 8 Malacca to JB to Singapore
• Day 9 Singapore
• Day 10 Singapore
• Fly out of Singapore

Generally, the plan is to NOT fly after landing in Penang, and only using buses and trains to travel from north to south through the peninsula in a grand tour fashion. Two person trip, wife and I. In past trips, we usually like to have an aggressive pace, spending only 1-2 days anywhere. But prioritizing the bookends of Penang and Singapore a little more. I've been to Singapore for business a few times, so I know it's a bit sterile and modern, but it is the wife's first visit. Penang is best from what I've seen so far. No visas seemingly required, Canadian and Chinese.
Budget is fairly loose, we prioritize experiences over costs. We mostly go for good food, good atmosphere, culture, music, sights, history. Sometimes the bar, but the south east asian bar scene is not our usual vibe.
Any advice along the route is appreciated!

All prices in CNY unless otherwise stated. Ratings are how satisfied I am with the item so even if the item has some minor flaws I'll still rate it 5/5 if it's almost imperceptible and I like the item.

Agent: Pandabuy

No complaints. Whatever issues I had with sellers were promptly handled by PandaBuy including any returns.

Parcels 📦

Parcel 1

• Shipping: Canada PD Line-B to Vancouver
• Time: 13 days
• Weight: 3.2 kg
• Declared: 14 USD (total)
• Cost: 414.33
• Insurance: 69.33
• Added services: moisture bag and corner protection
• Notes: This was the handbag, wallets, and sunglasses

Parcel 2

• Shipping: Canada PD Line-B to Vancouver
• Time: 20 days
• Weight: 6.9 kg
• Declared: 14 USD (total)
• Cost: 826.84
• Insurance: 62.55
• Added services: moisture bag and corner protection
• Notes: This package got opened by Korean customs. Thankfully nothing was taken. This had my sweaters and belt and some other stuff.

Parcel 3

• Shipping: Canada PD Line-B to Vancouver
• Time: 14 days
• Weight: 5.9 kg
• Declared: 14 USD (total)
• Cost: 725.35
• Insurance: 56.25
• Added services: moisture bag and corner protection
• Notes: This was mostly t-shirts and whatever was left over.

Other than the fact that the one parcel was opened up, I'm satisfied with the delivery condition and time.

Stats

• Height: 5'10
• Weight: 200lb
• Shoe size: 9
• Shirt size: L/XL
• Pant size: 32W/30L

Items

Tops 👕

Stone Island Lambswool Knit (5208A3) from TOPSTONEY - 5/5

¥250.00 W2C Pics Colour: Sage green Size: XL
TopStoney - enough said. I got this in the sage green. I initially wanted olive green but it was OOS but I'm actually glad cause I really like this colour. This is probably one of my favourites from these two hauls. I'd recommend sizing up by one on this. I followed the size chart and basically matched it up with one of my existing sweaters. Would definitely recommend this!

Ami de Coeur Oversize Funnel Neck Sweater - 1/5

¥143.10 W2C Pics Colour: 11 Size: XL
Took the fattest L on this one. I got impatient waiting for repsbrothers to make this so I copped from this seller that I've seen some others use. The proportions are absolutely horrible. Arms are fine but the length and width are super weird - it goes beyond oversized. I give it a 1 cause I feel like the shape of the logo is ok (haven't compared to retail other than pics online) and the materials seem good. I ended up giving it to my sister and it fits her better as like a sweater dress. Would not recommend.

FOG Essentials Hoodie 2023SS - 5/5

¥136.00 W2C Pics Colour: Sand White Size: M
Probably one of the comfiest hoodies I've worn. I really love the fit on this as well. I don't really need to say more I'm sure everyone's got a pair here. If you don't, make sure to size down one. I also wanted to get these in another CW (plus the accompanying sweats). The sweats made it to my warehouse but the hoodie was OOS. I requested that they returned the sweats cause I didn't want just the sweats without the hoodie and even though it was past the return window, my agent handled the return no questions asked which was great.

Maison Margiela Full-Zip - 5/5

¥238.00 W2C Pics Colour: Grey Size: L
My other favourite from this haul. It's simple but I've gotten tons of compliments on this. The material is really nice and it's quite heavy - this and a t-shirt underneath is enough to keep me warm on colder days. I went TTS on this and it fits well. The seller has a bunch of Margiela and has this sweater in navy, red, cream, and black.

Onlyfans T-Shirt - 5/5

¥72.00 W2C Pics Colour: Milk Size: XL
Everyone that's seen this shirt loves it. I also love it. It has a nice boxy fit as well. The print's holding up after one wash which is great as well. Size up if you want an oversized fit (I got XL).

Loewe Spirited Away T-Shirt - 4.5/5

¥29.90 OOS Pics Colour: Green Size: XL
The material is actually really good - not too thick, not too thin. The embroidery is very detailed as well. The QC photos are a lot closer to the actual colour and I really love it. For the price? I can't complain... too much. The only complaint I have is the size. I got an XL but looking at the size chart I knew I needed an XXL for a boxy fit. Since they were OOS of that, I got the XL and it's more of a regular fit. I don't mind it but definitely would have preferred it in XL. I also got this in white for my sister.

Travis Scott x McDonald's Fry T-Shirt - 5/5

¥65.00 W2C Pics Colour: Brown #29 Size: L
The print is pretty high quality and the shirt itself isn't thin. It has a nice boxy fit if you go TTS.

Palm Angels Bear T-Shirt - 5/5

¥78.00 W2C Pics Colour: Purple broken bear Size: L
I really like the colour on this. This is from the same seller as the Travis Scott shirt so same quality. This has a slightly more regular fit than the Travis shirt but still on the oversized side.

Kith Floral T-Shirt - 5/5

¥50.00 W2C Pics Colour: Black Size: L
The print on this is really good quality. The cloth is a good thickness. It has a slightly oversized fit so to TTS if you're into that.

Akira-San T-Shirt - 4.5/5

¥38.00 W2C Pics Colour: White Size: 3XL
I love the design of this shirt but I had to take 0.5 off cause I feel like the print is way too glossy. Other than that, no complaints and I've gotten a lot of compliments on this. You have to size up quite a bit on this I got 3XL.

Ami Paris T-Shirt - 4.5/5

¥71.00 W2C Pics Colour: Blue Size: L
I took a chance on this seller cause I didn't see any recent posts on them. They have a really big variety of Ami Paris. The material is really high quality but there is a little flaw on the "A" on the AMI on the back and the heart is a bit crooked on the front. It's not enough to really notice, especially cause the stitching blends in with the t-shirt so it doesn't matter to me. I was unsure about their fit and I got an L and it's exactly regular fit. I'll size up in the future with them. You're gonna have to do a custom order on this by pasting the yupoo link into Pandabuy. Just fill in the size/colour you want and place the price I listed here. If the price changed then you'll just get a ping telling you what the price is and it'll tell you to pay the difference.

Initial D T-Shirt - 4.5/5

¥75.00 Dead Pics Colour: Black (Asian squat) Size: L
The material is nice with this but the print isn't the best but I think that could be attributed to the older manga panel. It's a regular fit so I wish I got it in XL instead of L.

Bottoms 👖

Carhartt WIP Cargo Pants - 2.5/5

¥125.00 W2C Pics Colour: Army Green Size: 2XL
The first issue I noticed with this was the button hole was stitched shut. Not a big issue - I just cut it open with a knife. The fit of it was ok but I felt like the thighs were a bit tight (I do have thunder thighs though) while the length was pretty long. The sizing is pretty weird though so just follow the size chart. My biggest issue was when the stitching on one of the pockets came undone (last pic). I got my sister to sew it for me but I don't know if I'd recommend this to others.

FOG Essentials Sweats 2023SS - 5/5

¥116.00 W2C Pics Colour: Sand White Size: M
Same comments as the hoodie. Make sure to size down.

Shoes 👟

Yeezy Slides - 4.5/5

¥90.00 W2C Pics Colour: Onyx Matte Black Size: US9=43
After messing up with the size on my last haul, I went TTS in this haul and it fits well. The only complaint I have is that when I first started wearing it it was pretty tight on the sides but I saw that this is an issue with gen as well. After wearing it for a while it's not an issue anymore. Also make sure you get the LW version - this is the closest to retail.

Crocs - 0/5

¥31.00 W2C Pics Colour: Dark grey Size: M9/W11
When I got this at the warehouse, the agent let me know that they noticed one croc was bigger than the other (picture attached) and then they handled the exchange. The second one that I received looked pretty alright. When I received them in hand they were like two sizes too big. I tried shrinking them in the dryer for a really long time but that still didn't shrink them to my size. I ended up getting rid of them. Would not recommend from this seller. I should have listened to the quality warning given by Pandabuy. There's another seller that's like $2 more and I'm gonna try ordering from them. It's got more reviews too and doesn't warn you about the poor quality.

Versace Underwear 3pk - 3/5

¥126.00 W2C Pics Colour: Boxed No.1 Size: XL
I didn't notice that the bottom isn't hemmed. These keep riding up when I wear them (my thighs refuse to be contained). The print on it is meh but the waist is pretty good quality. I'd like these a lot better if it didn't ride up and if the inseam wasn't so short. These are almost like tighty whities.

Cartier Love Ring - 3.5/5

¥10.00 + ¥9.00 Dead Pics Colour: 5mm card plus ring no diamond gold Size: 11
The ring itself is good from far but far from good. The box is pretty atrocious but I don't care I just needed something to put it in. It's also 19 CNY altogether... so I can't really complain. You probably won't notice it but right beside actual (22k) gold, you can tell how off the colour is. 22k is yellower than 18k which is what you'll find in the west though so keep that in mind. I'll have to rock it on a different hand from my real ring. This cleared the lead test as well (last pic).

Vivienne Westwood Pearl Bracelet - 2/5

¥33.00 W2C Pics Colour: Gold Size: N/A
I like the details on this but it's way too small for me. I gave it to my sister but even she has to wear it with the whole chain. This passed the lead test as well (last pic). Let me know if y'all know a better seller for this.

Hermes Constance Reversible Belt from k8 - 4.9/5

¥225.00 W2C Pics Colour: 15 bright gold buckle soil yellow leather Size: 90 European code (full length 105cm)
I bought a Ferragamo belt from this seller in my first haul and decided to try them again. I'm very happy with this and I love the dual colours. The buckle on this is the Constance but you can also get the Faubourg on this page so be careful about your choice. The -0.1 is mostly cause the sizing chart is really confusing. I got the wrong size for the Ferragamo as well. With that one I just cut the end that goes into the buckle but this has a different style of buckle so can't really do the same thing. This still fits but I have to use the very last buckle. I guess it gives me motivation to lose a little bit of weight 😅. I'd say go up one size from the size chart. For example, the chart says pant size 31-33 should get 90 but I should have gotten 95.

Nike Socks - 5/5

¥7/pair W2C Pics Colour: Towel bottom black high boots/Towel bottom long tube White Size: L (42-46)
At 7/pair this is an absolute steal. These are actually pretty thick if you get the ones that say "towel bottom." Long tube/high boot means the longest ones. This shop keeps changing the link to the actual item so I'd recommend saving the actual store for the future.

Jibbitz - 5/5

¥1.80-1.88 each W2C 1/W2C 2 Pics
I don't know what else to say other than they're good. I got them from a couple stores so linked both.

KAWS Keychain - 5/5

¥3.50 W2C Pics Colour: N/A Size: N/A
He's just a lil guy. Might have to buy another one cause my dad keeps stealing my keys.

KAWS Mouse Mat - 5/5

¥29.80 W2C Pics Colour: KA-991 Size: 900x400mm
This is amazing value for the price given a mouse mat of this size goes for 15-20 CAD on Amazon Canada. It's very thick, the print is really good, and I've had no issues with my mouse. Definitely recommend it. I got 900x400mm.

Louis Vuitton Monogram Amerigo from Wholesale1991 - 4.5/5

¥240.00 W2C Brown/W2C Black Pics Colour: N/A Size: N/A
I feel like Whoelsale1991 is the best value when it comes to leather goods, especially Louis Vuitton. Just make sure if you're getting something from them, the item code has an "A" in it. I bought one for myself (brown) and one for my dad as an anniversary gift (black). I'm happy with them but the only complaint I have on mine is that my cards are making the leather patina bit too quick.

Louis Vuitton Monogram Soufflot BB from Wholesale1991 - 4.9/5

¥630.00 W2C Pics Colour: N/A Size: N/A
Anniversary for my mom. She really liked it and that's all that matters. Other than that I feel like the quality of the leather is pretty good as well. The only thing that I noticed was that I felt like the shoulder strap was a bit thin but nothing major.

Cartier CT0092 w/ prescription from Vincent - 4.9/5

¥745.00 W2C: +8618902292112 Pics Colour: N/A Size: N/A
Bought these from Vincent w/ prescription. The frame itself costs 54 USD and then it's 45 USD for prescription (I switched phones so lost the WhatsApp messages). I'm very happy with these the only thing is that the colour of the lens is a bit off from the picture but that's because of the prescription. If you don't get a prescription you'll get the original lens. To order from Vincent you'll have to hit him up on WhatsApp and tell him your prescription (including your PD) and what lens you want. You can see what frames he has here You can get polarized lenses for a little bit extra as well but he only does a handful of colours for that. The -0.1 is purely for the miscommunication with the lens. Vincent didn't say at first that he couldn't get the lens 1:1 but it's close enough so I don't mind. I would for sure recommend Vincent though his service and communication is pretty good otherwise.

Closing Remarks

Altogether pretty satisfied with this haul but those two Ls did kinda annoy me. Putting together a (much smaller) summer haul so will post my reviews then for those.

The "Bare Branches" theory by VM Hudson was developed as an evaluation of the Chinese threat to national security. It says that the Asian femicide(s) has left the Chinese men without partners in life and family and will result in explosive nuclear annihilation.
​
Now let's move back in time 66 million years ago. When giant lizards ruled the Earth.
​
Reptiles do not use sexual chromosomes to determine gender. It comes purely from thermodynamics. A hot environment turns the eggs into [insert dominate gender of reptilian species here]. And a cold environment will turn the same initial eggs into [insert submissive gender of reptilian species here].
​
In turtles, the dominant species is female, so hot temperatures make females, and cold makes males.
​
In crocodiles, the dominate species is male, so hot temperatures make males, and cold makes females.
​
The larger the reptilian, the more likely the dominant gender is the male. Therefore the dinosaurs where likely male-dominant. This is still true in birds, there avian descendants.
​
Cold temperatures followed the floods after the asteriod impact. Therefore almost all of the dinosaur eggs came out male.
​
And then in one generation, they where all gone.
​
Bare branches scattered in the wind.
​
The thermodynamical ordering principle is obvious as the gender selection is determined by heat. In mammals, it comes from the SRY gene, which affects the actual chromosomes instead. We are warm-blooded and our Y chromosomes are arocentric, two factors that result in us not laying eggs ourselves and being subject to the same phenomena as our planet gets warmer today.
​
The probability that the SRY gene occurs is determined by which sperm cell reach the egg cell.
​
This probability cannot be mapped and instead may rely on the information in the thermodynamic theory as opposed to heat.
​
The infamous parapsychologist JB Rhine tested predicative abilities of the human mind and found they where greater than random predications for experimental outcomes.
​
Beau Kitselman expounded on the research further by developing a calculus of rings inspired by the Rigveda. I have been stonewalled in my efforts to discover what it is about. He starts in his book, "The Time Teachers", by flipping a coin 5,000 times and noticing that his predictions where more on the mark then a random distribution at 50-50.
​
George Spencer-Brown explained to Rhine based on these results that the human predicted results did not prove ESP, but instead that the foundations of probability theory itself where all flawed.
​
Jaynes introduced new entropic principles to counter Spencer-Brown's logic. Jaynes theory is the new foundation that we all are familiar with today. Spencer-Brown and Kitselman remain forgotten.
​
Kauffman extended the Spencer-Brown algebra into a four-valued bilattice that has four truth values. According to Buckminster Fuller, four forms are the bare minimum for the emergence of spacetime from thermodynamics. I believe this same algebra is the basis of the Kitselman program, which involves nested rings and a violation of the Coulomb electrostatic force. Again, not sure how, but I think it could be an interesting alternative the Jaynes theory...
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The Rhine Egregore-phenomena allows our mental energies to determine our fate. Egregores form with four forms, or four thoughts. Four truths that are all true in all universes via modal logic.
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Is our perfect 1-1 gender ratio determined by laws outside of spacetime? Or the kind of perfect random distribution that Spencer-Brown would scoff at?

Read my newsletter to copy what I am doing right and avoid what I am doing wrong.
To read the newsletter click on the link to go to my website blog.
https://bettingsystemsguide.com/2024-2-18-bsg-newsletter-betting-system-monthly-results-update/
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Super Short Summary of this newsletter:
1 Betting System results +£409 in the last month
2 System Change: IPT in-play trading data for BFBM, BetaminicDraw on TippingSports, 0-0 Correct Score Bot
3 Current Betting System Setup Summary: Bank Size, Profit Targets, Costs, Drawdowns, Exit Points
4 Automated Betting Bots – Email me if you want a bot set.
5 Ideas for Researching Betaminic Strategies: Some interesting ideas from other users
​
https://bettingsystemsguide.com/2024-2-18-bsg-newsletter-betting-system-monthly-results-update/
Best regards,
Tom
Useful Links:
1 My Betting Advice Site: www.bettingsystemsguide.com
2 Betaminic big data betting strategies: http://www.betaminic.com/?ref=TomW (Can be automated)
3 Reddit Betaminic Community: https://www.reddit.com/AutomatedBettingBots/
4 Betaminic’s tipping account BetaminicSys on www.tippingsports.com (Can automate with a Betfair account)
5 Betaminic’s tipping account BetaminicDraw on www.tippingsports.com (Can automate with a Betfair account, ask me for my BetaminicDraw bot set)
6 Betaminic’s tipping account BetaminicLdsys on www.tippingsports.com (Can automate with a Betfair account)
7 Betaminic’s tipping account BETAMINIC1 on www.smartbet.io (Can automate with a PS3838 account)
8 My BSG Draw System account bsgDrawSystem on www.tippingsports.com (Can automate with a Betfair account, ask me for my bsgDrawSystem bot set)
9 My BSG Draw System account TomW on www.smartbet.io (Can automate with a PS3838 account)
Pro Betting Tools
1 Bf Bot Manager automated betting software for Betfair
2 IPT In Play Trading Data add-on for Bf Bot Manager – Get all the livescores for all the Betfair in-play football games.
3 Smartbet.io automated betting software for PS3838/Pinnacle (+50% first deposit bonus with “TomW” code)
4 The Staking Machine staking analysis software
5 Betting Agents: : AsianConnect and BetInAsia Access a PS3838 account, online sportsbook & exchange aggregator, and 3% commission white-label version of Betfair with no Premium Charge via a betting agent. AsianConnect (via VPN for UK/AUS residents) or BetInAsia. See my site for a list of which site accepts/restricts which country. Only USA, Aruba, Singapore, and The Philippines are restricted by both. So one of them will probably work for you.
6 VPN services: TunnelBear offer a free VPN with no time limit (2GB per month limit). Paid VPNs are available with more bandwidth. Useful for accessing AsianConnect.
7 VPS: I use SimplyHosting for my VPS that hosts my Bf Bot Manager software.
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Affiliate Link Disclaimer: I may receive commission for purchases made via my affiliate links. I have used all these services myself and I do not recommend anything that I have not used myself. I can offer support and answer your questions about these services because of this experience. If you do decide to use any of these services, then clicking through my links is an easy way to say thanks for me introducing you to it.
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I went for a gathering at my polytechnic teacher house. We played card games, ate dinner and chill talk
We ended the day at around 1am, and I was so surprised to earn alot of money. Happy
I told my parents I would be coming home late, and they do not need to be worry as it is my teacher and he's a responsible man. They said OK and that's all
We ended the day at arnd 1am, and me and 1 other friend who live around the same area decided to share grab on the way home. But, my teacher decided to drive us home, so as to not waste money.
In the end, I reached home arnd 2am. I quickly went for a shower quietly as to not wake my parents up. After bathing, I ate some food in my room and went to sleep immediately
Today, when I wake up. I saw my mum had texted me at 5am saying "WHAT TIME ALREADY, WHERE ARE YOU", followed by attempting to call me. She thought I was still out and didn't answer, but it is because I am asleep
After that, my dad interrogated me abt what time I reach home, how I reach home and why me and my friend stayed so late. I answered all of them truthfully and I even prepared to give my friends and teacher number to him, so that if he don't believe me, he can go call and verify.
BUT WHAT FOLLOWED IS THE MOST BULLSHIT THING EVER.
He blamed us for staying up so late and disrupting my teacher family. THIS IS NOT THE FKING CASE AS MY TEACHER DID NOT MIND OUR PRESENCE, AND IF HE WANTED TO SLEEP, HE CAN ASKED US TO LEAVE AND WE WOULD.
Then, he forced me to agree that every gathering I went to, I have to be home by 1130pm or else I would be locked outside until the next day of 8am, and possibly be banned from future gathering
I feel like this is the most ASIAN PARENTS THING TO DO, and I'm not proud to say but I RLY WANT TO GTFO OF THERE, EARN SOME MONEY AND BUY MY OWN HSE
Special note: my friend ask me to go on a day trip to jb this wk, and idt they will allow. Why u may ask? COZ THEY WILL USE THIS EXAMPLE TO NOT LET ME GO

Brook’s Edge Plaza, a 70,274-square-foot retail property located at 71-91 South Main Street in Marlboro, recently sold for $15.9 million. The sale was facilitated by JLL Capital Markets, with JB Bruno, Jose Cruz, Kevin O’Hearn, and Shaelyn Nuckel representing the seller, First Montgomery Group, and procuring the buyer. Situated in Monmouth County, the plaza boasts a strategic location along Route 79. Anchored by essential retailers such as Asian Food Market and Jersey Strong Gym, it serves as a prominent shopping center in the area.

Summary of transaction details:

• Property Type: Retail
• Transaction Amount: $15,900,000
• Address: 71-91 South Main Street
• Market: Marlboro
• Square Footage: 70,274
• Price Per Square Foot: $226
• Seller: Rich Haydinger Jr - First Montgomery Group
• Brokers: JB Bruno, Jose Cruz, Kevin O’Hearn, and Shaelyn Nuckel - JLL

JLL Capital Markets played a pivotal role in this transaction, ensuring a successful sale of Brook’s Edge Plaza. Thanks to its strategic location and essential retail anchors, this shopping center in Marlboro attracted the attention of interested buyers. Through their diligent efforts, JB Bruno, Jose Cruz, Kevin O’Hearn, and Shaelyn Nuckel of JLL provided excellent representation for both the seller, First Montgomery Group, and the buyer, resulting in a mutually beneficial deal.
Learn More: Brook's Edge Plaza In Marlboro Sells For $15.9M With JLL Capital Markets Representing Seller And Buyer

Entire post is paraphrased, not exact quotes. Welcomed Shonda Rimes, Jess Brownell, Julia Quinn.
They are most excited for: SR: Traditionally, you have a new person coming in. This season, it is already someone that you already know and you are already rooting for. JB: This season you have the underdogs and the wallflowers. In this season, you have people stepping into their power, unrequired crushes, and underdogs being seen. JQ: This book was the hardest to plot because the characters were already well-established and couldn't be molded to fit the story. But because of that, it worked well for a friends to lover story.
SR & JB worked together for 15 years before Bridgerton. JB: It was terrifying, but a privilege to be the showrunner. I have been with the show since the beginning. I am not changing anything too drastically, but it will be slightly different each season. This season allows for familiarity and coziness, but also rom com tropes and awkward banter, which I love writing.
SR: We have finished season 3 and have started season 4. [Shonda recapped how season 3 ended.]
JB: [Explaining how season 3 starts] Colin has been trying to find himself and enters season 3 with a new sense of confidence. Penelope has found herself in a situation where she is without her best friend and needs help from Colin to make sense of her new situation. JQ: There is a moment where Colin cuts his hand. It is their first moment of intimacy. Touching hands was risqué in the Regency Era. SR: There are new situations for the characters and very interesting characters that have been added.
SHOWN PHOTO OF PENELOPE HELPING TO TEND COLIN'S CUT HAND. THIS APPEARS TO HAVE TAKEN PLACE AFTER THE CLIP OF THIRSTY COLIN, BECAUSE THEY ARE WEARING THE SAME CLOTHES, BUT IN THE CLIP, HIS HAND HAD NOT BEEN CUT YET.
NAME OF THE EPISODES:
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1. Out of the Shadows
2. How Bright is the Moon
3. Forces of Nature
4. Old Friends
5. Tick Tock
6. Romancing Mr Bridgerton
7. Joining of Hands
8. Into the Light

CAST BROUGHT OUT (I will be referring to them by character names going forward): Nicola Coughlan (Penelope), Luke Newton (Colin), Adjoa Andoh (Lady Danbury), Golda Rosheuvel (Queen Charlotte), Claudia Jessie (Eloise), Luke Thompson (Benedit), Martin Imhangbe (Will Mondrich)
Describe the season in one word:
SR: Intimate JB: Confidence JQ: Long-awaited Pen: Romantic Colin: Unpredictable Will: Warm Benedict: Zoom in Eloise: Thrwa(?) (she might have just made a sound) Lady D: Revelatory Queen C: Mischevious
Can we forgive Colin? Pen: I think we have to. Colin: Colin being in the wrong is a good place to start. Pen: He's been kicked off the pedestal. Colin: They can now start off on an even playing field.
Penelope has some options this season: Pen: Yes. Penelope wants to head back to the ton and the marriage mart and get away from the Featheringtons. Colin: Colin says, "I'll help you!" Pen: (sarcastically) Pen says, "Great! That'll cause no problems!" Then she ends up fond of one and thinks, "This could work..." Colin: He becomes by greatest threat. [Colin is warned about spoilers.]
What about Pen and Eloise? Eloise: They didn't make up off camera. The level of betrayal was large and cannot be made up quickly. Eloise has always lived a comfortable life, and this was a big blow, and the first, to their friendship. SR: Eloise and Pen are the second love story of the season.
Eloise decides to embrace some of the traditions this season. Eloise: Eloise is stubborn, but she finally thinks, "Hey! Let me try this out [the marriage mart] to see what it's all about."
The bond between the Bridgertons. Eloise: The Bridgertons are protective at best, but this [Pen or LW] was a big thing for Colin. Eloise still has a lot of love for Penelope. Colin and Eloise had a lot of scenes together. Col: It's a love triangle, but not romantic.
Where does Benedict start the season? Ben: Benedict has decided to give up on painting, and he is taking on responsibility that Anthony used to do and is finding that he can do it very well. But then he begins to question whether this is who he is supposed to be, and questions what he wants. He really grapples with the idea that with freedom comes loneliness. He's always floated about. With freedom comes the paralyzing complication of not having a good sense of who you are.
How does Benedict evolve? Ben: [Here, Ben was very careful with his words, trying not to spoil anything.] Benedict is a free spirit. He is passionate impulsive, but he is still working all of that out and it all comes to a head. He confronts a thing, and the pressure is cooking inside of him.
Does Benedict want to settle down or does he want to go on a journey? Ben: Benedict is always one to comment on things [like when Colin says he is going to do more traveling]. He is always on the outside but doesn't know what he wants. If he picks settling down or going on a journey, he will still question whether he should have picked the other one.
Lady D: This season, you get to see more of why Lady Danbury has an investment with the Bridgerton family. She carries this great love for Lord Ledger (Violet's dad). You get to see why
Lady D is an operator, because she has to understand the navigations that must be made. Knowledge is her superpower.
Queen C: I am excited that fans have now caught up with all of the research that we had to do on our characters previously.
The friendship between Lady D and Queen C:
There are years of experience between them. They can communicate in shorthand. It is interesting to always see a person as how you first remembered them. They grew up together. They understand that they have to uphold their societal status in public, but that changes when they are in private.
Queen C’s take on the marriage mart:
Queen C: There’s a newness to it. Queen C is bored and is searching for something different asking, “Where are they?”
Lady Danbury:
Lady D: Lady Danbury is a carefully constructed person. Someone arrives in society that has the company shook. Lady D has to work out how to navigate this new arrival. She is so shook that now she is slightly not in control of her emotions.
ANNOUNCEMENT ABOUT THROWING A BRIDGERTON-THEMED WEDDING FOR FANS
SHOWN A PICTURE OF PEN’S SUITOR (COLIN’S GREATEST THREAT): LORD DEBBLING. HE IS BLONDE AND BEARDED, LOOKS A LITTLE OLDER.
Writing the show:
JB: Shonda told me, don’t write about what should happen next, but write about what you want to see. We let those images guide us.
SR: One of the greatest impacts of the show is to give female characters agency in a world where they didn’t have any. I love that for Penelope’s character.
Pen: SO much happens this season. We were always like, “What happens next?”
Becoming Queen C in Bridgerton again after the show Queen Charlotte.
Queen C: It became more inhabitable. The fans are with us now.
How has Bridgerton changed your life:
Will: I have more hope in production and storytelling. I am proud to invest in this story and in this world. This is my first TV job.
Benedict: It killed my fear of cameras.
Eloise: I’ve not always been part of productions where I’ve loved every single second of it. I’ve very proud of [Bridgerton.]
Lady D: In Ghana, a car screeched to a stop in front of me and a woman came out and started crying. She said, “Bridgerton has done so much for us!” and I knew she meant that as an African, as a woman, and as an older woman. The show makes a space for everyone. It was launched during a pandemic with open arms and said, “Come on in. Welcome to our world.”
Pen: After the cast watched the first two episodes together, Lady D turned to me and said, “This is for the wallflowers.”
Queen C: I now can’t buy pants or a shower cap without being asked for a photo.
Colin: It’s been nice to have consistency on a job. I’ve not always had the opportunity to play out a story for as long as you want to.
Pen: We look at pictures of us [she and Colin] from season 1 and think we look like babies.
Colin: We tried to recreate photos this year of pictures we took in season 1. Production is really collaborative and allowed us to really dive deep on how we wanted to portray our characters.
Pen: They were really open to what the fans wanted to see in a way that has not been my experience in the past.
JB: There is an easter egg from the book in almost every episode.
Pen: I now feel like Beyonce in Brazil [regarding the original question].
JQ: It feels like I’m living a Cinderella story. I am now proud to say I am a romance writer.
JB: I’ve had to move to London.
SR: Bridgerton is the biggest swing I’ve ever had to make. I knew I wanted to see it, but I didn’t know if other people would take it.
How to do maintain freshness each season?
JB: We focus on different couples each year, but we are also constantly raising the bar on the visuals.
Who is most like their character? Pen: Colin. [He agreed, then rest of the cast agreed.]
Who is least like their characters?
Pen: Golda. [Cast agreed.]
Who has the most bloopers?
JB: Johnny [Anthony], then Claudia [Eloise].
Pen: It’s not that you [Eloise] mess up your lines. It’s the second that they yell cut, you yell some kind of profanity that is great for the blooper reel.
Colin: You’ve [Eloise] never messed up your line.
Tee up new characters for the fans.
JB: There are new faces, but we should bring up the Featheringtons. Penelope is stepping out of her role.
SR: This is a test for the sisters.
PHOTO SHOWN OF PHILIPA AND MR FINCH, PRUDENCE AND [SUITOR? HANDSOME ASIAN MAN] AND PENELOPE.
What do you hope people enjoy from the series?
Colin: Exploring another relationship.
Pen: That people who might have not felt seen feel seen, and that people know that everyone is deserving and worthy of love.
Queen C: The new couple and the new showrunner [was very complimentary of JB].
Lady D: That this is a show that makes you laugh and then you find yourself crying. It is for the wallflowers.
Eloise: It’s a reminder that people make mistakes and that they can develop. It is also okay to really love something with your whole heart.
Ben: It’s like a holiday. You watch it and you come back revived, hopeful, and warmer.
Will: I think they enjoy how it is relatable. People can see themselves in it, and it hopefully encourages others to investigate how they feel about the relationships in their own life.
JQ: I liked what Benedict said about feeling like a holiday. It is an escape and makes you feel happy, but that doesn’t mean that there isn’t any depth.
JB: Find your light.
SR: We are untold stories. You will get to see a little bit of what’s going on emotionally with the older women.
CLIP OF FIRST “TWO MINUTES OF SEASON 3 SHOWN” (IT WAS NOT TWO MINUTES):
It appears that Colin goes after Penelope after she leaves a ball. The makeover has already happened.
Pen tells Colin goodnight. Colin questions whether Penelope needs a chaperone. Pen says spinsters don’t need chaperones. Colin says she is not a spinster. Penelope challenges this, saying she is on her third marriage mart with no promises, what would you call that? Colin asks Penelope if something is wrong, brings up the fact that she didn’t write to him, and then jokingly says, “Are you going to make me say it? I miss you.”
PEN GOES OFF. (Paraphrased) “You miss me? When you had previously said that you would never court me?” She reads him to filth for exactly what he did, what she overheard, and where she overheard it, then walks away.

Freightos Weekly Update January 10, 2024
Excerpts:

Ocean rates - Freightos Baltic Index

Asia-US West Coast prices (FBX01 Weekly) increased 60% to $2,713/FEU.
Asia-US East Coast prices (FBX03 Weekly) increased 58% to $3,980/FEU.
Asia-N. Europe prices (FBX11 Weekly) increased 176% to $4,391/FEU.
Asia-Mediterranean prices (FBX13 Weekly) increased 115% to $5,169/FEU.

Analysis:

​
Last week authorities from a group of 12 nations, including the US and UK, issued a “final warning” for the Houthis to cease their Red Sea attacks, understood to be backed by a threat of strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen. This statement was followed by a China representative to the UN also calling for the attacks to end. At the same time, multiple nations have reportedly backed out or refused to publicly be included in the naval coalition now patrolling the area due to geopolitical considerations.
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But the Houthis remain undeterred and have launched multiple attacks since then, including drones launched in the region, boats loaded with explosives, and a hijacking attempt via small-vessels.
​
With the continued attacks, six of the top ten container carriers are diverting away from the Red Sea: Maersk – which had returned and then suspended again last week – MSC, Hapag-Lloyd, ZIM, ONE and CMA CGM (though CMA CGM is still sailing some vessels through). Most Asian carriers – Evergreen, HMM, Yang Ming, OOCL and COSCO are not diverting, so container vessels are still using the Suez, but the total fleets of the carriers that are diverting represent 62% of global capacity.
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COSCO has reportedly joined OOCL in ceasing Israeli port calls, possibly as a strategy to avoid becoming Houthi targets.
​
The diversions are leading to higher costs for carriers using more fuel and more ships for the longer journeys around the south of Africa, and higher container rates for shippers.
​
Freightos Baltic Index daily rates for Monday for the ex-Asia lanes that typically use the Suez Canal and which include Red Sea-related surcharges, were $4,234/FEU to N. America East Coast, a 69% increase since diversions started in mid-December. Asia - N. Europe rates of $4,789/FEU are 226% higher, and prices to the Mediterranean of $5,202/FEU are 116% higher. Prices are likely to continue climbing in the near term as mid-month GRIs and additional surcharges come into effect. Backhaul rates on these lanes have at least doubled as well as carriers seek to offset higher costs.
​
Asia - N. America West Coast rates have increased 74% to $2,713/FEU since mid-December as well, with reports that prices will climb to $5,000/FEU next week as shippers may be shifting volumes to the West Coast to avoid East Coast delays.
​
Planned rate increases to the West Coast and to other lanes not directly impacted by Red Sea diversions like the transatlantic – which are set to increase sharply in February to at least $5k/FEU from their current level of just $1,240/FEU – may reflect that capacity is tightening across the market as more vessels are activated on the ex-Asia lanes. They may also show that longer transit times and possible schedule disruptions on those lanes could lead to some port congestion at import hubs and to empty container shortages which likewise could be felt even beyond Red Sea services.
​
Demand is likely increasing as shippers try both to ship further in advance to accommodate longer transit times and to get orders out of China before manufacturing slows down over the Lunar New Year holiday that starts February 10th. So the next couple weeks will likely be the worst in terms of capacity shortages and possible congestion. As demand eases in late January, the industry may have a reprieve to recover schedules, and with a typical lull in volumes following Lunar New Year, freight rates may start to ease in late February – but should remain higher than usual until container traffic returns in full to the Red Sea.
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But even if rates do climb to the $6k- $8k/FEU range, these would be well below the $15k/FEU level seen for Europe and Mediterranean rates and the $22k/FEU level for N. America East Coast containers caused by the extreme surge in volumes and port congestion during the pandemic.
​
Elevated freight rates are leading to expectations that carrier profitability will improve in 2024. Investment bank Jeffries raised its container carrier outlook for 2024 given the change in rate conditions and the possibility that they will lead to higher floor even as conditions stabilize.
​
Carrier stocks are reflecting these expectations and reacting to any signs that Red Sea traffic might recover, too: ZIM Lines, which is heavily exposed to the spot market, saw its stock jump 60% in December as widespread diversions began, fell double digits when Maersk announced they’d return to the Suez, and then rebounded when Maersk suspended Red Sea service again.
​
Recent reports that some carriers are negotiating with the Houthis to secure safe passage for their vessels led carrier shares to drop Monday, though Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd denied they were in talks with the Houthis.
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SPOILER FREE
This is more about how both shows are masterpieces in their own right. I am not going to pit these shows against each other, try to end the debate of which show is better nor am I going to convince you which is better. It is up to your own personal preferences and tastes to determine which you feel is better.
I am a huge fan of both series and I think anyone who loves animation and great storytelling should check out both. In my opinion, both are S tier shows and are on equal footing with each other. I won’t be spoiling anything just going over their merits and go over a few criticisms. I’ll try to be as unbiased as I can.
I am only covering season 1 of both series. Arcane’s second season will released in November 2024, and Blue Eye Samurai’s second season renewal just got announced, so keep that in mind.
What They Have in Common
Both are found on Netflix
They both have excellent writing, compelling characters, representation done right, strong motivations that drive the characters and nuances that avoid a binary narrative.
Know how to write women and men respectfully
They are both animated by French studios. Arcane was animated by Fortiche and Blue Eye Samurai was animated by Blue Spirit Studios.
They are 2D/3D animated hybrids. The characters are cgi, the backgrounds are painted and overlayed with 3D models/layered giving them dimension and the effects like blood, and fire are traditionally animated. They are both feats of animation, beautiful and pushing what western adult animation can be.
Great rewatching potential, both have great foreshadowed moments, excellent parallels and lots of fine details to pick apart.
They are both made by very passionate and talented people. This is what I think is one the biggest ingredients that lead to their success with audiences. There was a lot love and a lot respect for the artists behind them which is something Disney and Hollywood have been lacking.
The Creators
Alex Yee and Christian Linke really took a leap with Arcane, but they were determined for their version to come true and it paid off. I give them a lot of praise, because, before Arcane they never had experience with producing an animated tv show, and let alone writing one. Even though Arcane’s production time took a long time because early on it was scrapped, before being revived again, they were able to find a new team to help them with their story. As they worked on Arcane they learned how to plot out a compelling and complex storyline while keeping their vision. Fortiche also took a big leap too since Arcane is their first time animating a tv series. Most of their past projects for Riot were short animated music videos, a far cry from a whole tv series.
Michael Green and Amber Noizumi created Blue Eye Samurai because they were inspired by their daughter who was, to their surprise born with blue eyes. It is a story that is very personal, with Amber Noizumi personal experiences as a Japanese mixed woman, which lead to Mizu’s relatability to a wide audience. The couple’s inspiration and passion lead them pitching to their story to Netflix. Michael Green already had a lot writing, since he wrote the scripts for critical acclaimed films like Logan, and Bladerunner 2049. The couple were very experienced with live-action productions and tv animation was a new territory for them. With the direction from Jane Wu, the couple let the artists expand their vision and learned from animation veterans how animated projects worked. The couple also worked with several researchers that kept Blue Eye Samurai as historically accurate as possible. Blue Spirit Studio had experience with past animated series and projects before, and the team’s ability to bring Blue Eye Samurai to life is something to definitely praise.
Genre
Arcane is fantasy, but stays pretty grounded. It can get gritty, and it is preformed as a drama with well placed action packed scenes. Many compare its complexity with Game of Thrones but in a focused part of a larger world.
Blue Eye Samurai is historical but more alternative history wise because a few major historical events were changed to tell the narrative. It is basically a pulp fiction samurai revenge story. It has several elements of westerns fused with old samurai movies.
Depending on your tastes the biggest difference is Arcane’s protagonist, Vi is fueled by love while Mizu from Blue Eye Samurai is fueled by revenge.
Themes
Arcane
Sisterhood and brotherhood relationships
Childhood Trauma and Psychological damage
Systematic Oppression and political corruption
Class Divide
Progress, technology and the ethics of it
War and the cycle of violence
Xenophobia
Betrayal
Belonging
Blue Eye Samurai
Biracial discrimination, racism and xenophobia
Patriarchal Societal Pressures, and Traditionalism
Womanhood and sexism
How Far For Revenge
Colonialism and imperialism
Betrayal
Class Divide
Identity
Sex
Honor
Acceptance
Age Rating
Both shows are in the adult animation category.
Arcane is PG14 while Blue Eye Samurai is MA. This is not to downplay the heavy themes in Arcane but more as forewarning of what to expect in Blue Eye Samurai.
Arcane has a lot of fantasy violence as well as physical violence, and most of the scenes aren’t too gory. There are a few nightmare fuel scenes that are very intense. Sex is very mild, one very artistically made sex scene, and a nude shower scene with a lot of censor steam. There’s a brothel too but no sex is shown just implied.
Blue Eye Samurai as expected of its genre has a lot of gore, blood, decapitation, and extremely painful moments. The show uses its MA rating to its fullest with the nudity and sex. It stays clear from objectification and shows sex naturally. There’s prostitution and sex woven into the story and it is used to give depth to the show’s established themes. It shows sex how it is, no fan service shots at all.
Both shows knew what their target audience was and stuck to it. Arcane pushed all it can with its lower rating so the League’s younger audience could watch it, as well as non-league fans.
Blue Eye Samurai was written in mind of adult audiences and older teens.
Maturity rating shouldn’t be the only thing to judge a story on, it should be judged on the characters, themes and good writing. Avatar the Last Airbender is good example, it had great a story with many mature themes and it was a children’s show, a legendary one at that.
They both open up the conversations on real life social issues, their themes are integral in our world today even though one is set in the far past and the other in a fantasy world from a video game.
Worldbuilding
Both of the shows’ worlds are preexisting.
Arcane uses two cities in Runeterra, and much of its facets to build Arcane’s world foundation. Runeterra was already built, and expanded upon way before Arcane came to be, and its world building still continues today.
They focus mostly on the conflict between Zuan and Piltover since they are the most grounded cities, in League’s Lore. Zuan’s style is inspired by bio punk and gothic aesthetics and is the lower class where the main protagonists are from. It is often called the Undercity because it is quite literally below Piltover’s high elevation. Piltover’s aesthetics is inspired by steampunk and French architecture and are made very clearly as the upperclass. Much of the politics and is in Piltover.
Arcane quickly shows us the class divide, by their contrasting aesthetics and the people who live there very effectively. It is efficient with its world building, tying with its main themes and conflicts.
Blue Eye Samurai is set in Edo Japan, a time period where Japan isolated itself from the outside side world. Much of the world building takes its time by immersing you in this period. The many historically accurate details, the customs, clothing and most importantly the character’s struggles. Edo Japan is used to establish conflict with the main characters, and the main themes of xenophobia, racism, sexism and womanhood. A time where women were property, and those that backgrounds deviated from the norm were considered less than human.
Blue Eye Samurai shows us the brutality of its world, and also the beauty of it as well.
Both shows utilize an A plot and B plot to give us look of both sides of their class decides, giving us a rounded perspective, as we follow characters from vastly different backgrounds.
Style
Arcane obviously had a bigger budget because it was funded by Riot but that doesn’t mean Blue Eye Samurai looks bad or inferior.
Arcane’s style is like a fully rendered painting, with many details and paint strokes. As I mentioned with its world building, the contrasting aesthetics of both cities and inhabitants lends to Arcane unique style. Everything is painted,the characters, backgrounds and props. Fortiche has been developing its unique style for many years and you can see their developing style in Riots music videos, like Rise and K/DA Popstars.
Even though Arcane looks more polished, Blue Eye Samurai was taking inspiration from from Ukiyo, Japanese watercolor paintings and Bunraku puppets for its style. The rougher, flatter colored style lends it well for its dark revenge story and dynamic fight scenes. It also shows the great beauty of Edo Japan with its many painted landscape shots. The thin pencil outlines is also a quality which harkens back to hand drawn animation.
What both Arcane and Blue Eye Samurai were able to accomplish is subtle character expressions and acting which brings the realness to their characters. This included subtle eye movements, and expressions that can be accomplished by their semi-realistic characters. Both shows avoid cartoonish movements and expressions which keeps the characters very grounded.
Both shows do not use motion capture, but highly referenced by live performances and choreographed scenes.
Many of their the scenes, have amazing composition, and look like paintings which is why they are great for wallpapers.
It may be a French animation thing, where both shows can find the beauty in the natural and “ugly” parts of humans, like wrinkles, eye bags, and differing facial structures.
Voice Acting
Arcane has excellent voice acting including veteran voice actors like JB Blanc as Vander, Jason Spisak as Silco, and Mick Wingert as Hiemerdinger.
Hailee Steinfeld and Ella Purnell as Vi and Jinx were spot on with their performances, and were able to play their character’s emotions perfectly. Shout out to Mia Sinclair Jenness with her performance as Powder.
Other outstanding performances include Toks Olagundoye as Mel, Kevin Alejandro as Jayce, Harry Lloyd as Viktor, Katie Leung as Caitlyn and Amirah Vann as Sevika.
All of the voice acting performances were top tier with many well known voice actors, which enhanced the characters of Arcane.
Blue Eye Samurai also has great voice acting as well, even though it’s controversial because some think the performances were wooden, even though the voice actors were specifically chosen by the creators.
Blue Eye Samurai’s cast is all Asian and Asian mixed except for Kenneth Branagh who plays the villain role of Abijah Fowler.
Maya Erskine was specifically chosen by the creators for Mizu after loving her performance in Pen15. The creators didn’t want anyone else to play Mizu.
Other amazing voice performances include Brenda Song as Akemi, Darren Barnet as Taigon, Masi Oka as Ringo, Randall Park as Heiji Shindo, George Takei as Seki, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa as Swordfather and Ming-Na Wen as Madam Kaji.
The voice performances fit their character perfectly, bringing them to life. They were able to bring the emotion that was needed for this dark show.
Music
Arcane has so many bangers, from Enemy by Imagine Dragons to Snakes by Pvris and MIYAVI. There’s also so many hard hitting emotional songs like Goodbye by Ramsey, Guns For Hire by Woodkid and What Could Have Been by Sting.
Arcane definitely exceeds Blue Eye Samurai with its music which isn’t a surprise because Christian Linke is a musician and Riot is known for making banger music.
Blue Eye Samurai has a pretty soundtrack as well, which fits its Edo Japan setting. It utilizes most of its Japanese cover music for action scenes and as homages to other inspired works like Kill Bill. The best song of the soundtrack is the cover of For Whom The Bells toll by Metallic which is sung by Emi Meyer.
Common Criticism
Arcane is very tightly paced, this may lose people’s enjoyment since it doesn’t have very many slow moments to breathe between scenes It is up to the person’s personal tastes, it didn’t bother me, but it did for my brother who likes more breathing time to sit in the world
Arcane has music video scenes, this is up to your taste, this criticism is mostly on that imagine dragons cameo which may have took viewers out of it experience
Imagine Dragons is in it, you can always mute it since I know a lot of people hate Imagine Dragons
Blue Eye Samurai has a terrible English voice acting, the Japanese dub is better. This criticism comes from the fact people expecting it to be in Japanese as it original language and that Japanese characters should be speaking Japanese. I like the Japanese dub as well but I don’t think we need to drag the English voice actors through the mud. Another thing to note is that much of the sarcastic humor works better in English and doesn’t work as well in Japanese, sounding awkward to natives of the language.
Blue Eye Samurai has few rough scenes where the lighting doesn’t hit as well but it doesn’t take you out of the experience
The sound-mixing is a little off, I’ve never heard this but some reviewers have pointed it out.
Blue Eye Samurai isn’t historically accurate, the creators changed major historical points to serve their story, when going in just see it as an alternative history story, there is so many historically accurate things to it and a lot of care was put into it
Blue Eye Samurai isn’t realistic, due to the later fight scenes you may need to expand you disbelief although it’s along the line other media of similar genre like Kill Bill and John Wick
Blue Eye Samurai’s ending was rushed, there’s some weight to this since it was originally going to have 10 episodes instead of 8
Blue Eye Samurai and Arcane had terrible endings. Both have endings that open up for discussions of their second season. Endings that are either hated or liked by their fans but nonetheless hint at the wider narrative.
Final Thoughts
Well this turned out to be an essay.
I think you should try out both if you’ve haven’t, they’ve changed me for the better and it’s amazing for a new viewer. There’s a lot love and so much they do right despite some of the small criticisms. Each show had its own flavor and they both helped me pull myself from art block.
They are good gateway animated shows for people who aren’t into anime, or people who only believe animation is only for kids.

SPOILER FREE
This is more about how both shows are masterpieces in their own right. I am not going to pit these shows against each other, try to end the debate of which show is better nor am I going to convince you which is better. It is up to your own personal preferences and tastes to determine which you feel is better.
I am a huge fan of both series and I think anyone who loves animation and great storytelling should check out both. In my opinion, both are S tier shows and are on equal footing with each other. I won’t be spoiling anything just going over their merits and go over a few criticisms. I’ll try to be as unbiased as I can.
I am only covering season 1 of both series. Arcane’s second season will released in November 2024, and Blue Eye Samurai’s second season renewal just got announced, so keep that in mind.
What They Have in Common
Both are found on Netflix
They both have excellent writing, compelling characters, representation done right, strong motivations that drive the characters and nuances that avoid a binary narrative.
Know how to write women and men respectfully
They are both animated by French studios. Arcane was animated by Fortiche and Blue Eye Samurai was animated by Blue Spirit Studios.
They are 2D/3D animated hybrids. The characters are cgi, the backgrounds are painted and overlayed with 3D models/layered giving them dimension and the effects like blood, and fire are traditionally animated. They are both feats of animation, beautiful and pushing what western adult animation can be.
Great rewatching potential, both have great foreshadowed moments, excellent parallels and lots of fine details to pick apart.
They are both made by very passionate and talented people. This is what I think is one the biggest ingredients that lead to their success with audiences. There was a lot love and a lot respect for the artists behind them which is something Disney and Hollywood have been lacking.
The Creators
Alex Yee and Christian Linke really took a leap with Arcane, but they were determined for their version to come true and it paid off. I give them a lot of praise, because, before Arcane they never had experience with producing an animated tv show, and let alone writing one. Even though Arcane’s production time took a long time because early on it was scrapped, before being revived again, they were able to find a new team to help them with their story. As they worked on Arcane they learned how to plot out a compelling and complex storyline while keeping their vision. Fortiche also took a big leap too since Arcane is their first time animating a tv series. Most of their past projects for Riot were short animated music videos, a far cry from a whole tv series.
Michael Green and Amber Noizumi created Blue Eye Samurai because they were inspired by their daughter who was, to their surprise born with blue eyes. It is a story that is very personal, with Amber Noizumi personal experiences as a Japanese mixed woman, which lead to Mizu’s relatability to a wide audience. The couple’s inspiration and passion lead them pitching to their story to Netflix. Michael Green already had a lot writing, since he wrote the scripts for critical acclaimed films like Logan, and Bladerunner 2049. The couple were very experienced with live-action productions and tv animation was a new territory for them. With the direction from Jane Wu, the couple let the artists expand their vision and learned from animation veterans how animated projects worked. The couple also worked with several researchers that kept Blue Eye Samurai as historically accurate as possible. Blue Spirit Studio had experience with past animated series and projects before, and the team’s ability to bring Blue Eye Samurai to life is something to definitely praise.
Genre
Arcane is fantasy, but stays pretty grounded. It can get gritty, and it is preformed as a drama with well placed action packed scenes. Many compare its complexity with Game of Thrones but in a focused part of a larger world.
Blue Eye Samurai is historical but more alternative history wise because a few major historical events were changed to tell the narrative. It is basically a pulp fiction samurai revenge story. It has several elements of westerns fused with old samurai movies.
Depending on your tastes the biggest difference is Arcane’s protagonist, Vi is fueled by love while Mizu from Blue Eye Samurai is fueled by revenge.
Themes
Arcane
Sisterhood and brotherhood relationships
Childhood Trauma and Psychological damage
Systematic Oppression and political corruption
Class Divide
Progress, technology and the ethics of it
War and the cycle of violence
Xenophobia
Betrayal
Belonging
Blue Eye Samurai
Biracial discrimination, racism and xenophobia
Patriarchal Societal Pressures, and Traditionalism
Womanhood and sexism
How Far For Revenge
Colonialism and imperialism
Betrayal
Class Divide
Identity
Sex
Honor
Acceptance
Age Rating
Both shows are in the adult animation category.
Arcane is PG14 while Blue Eye Samurai is MA. This is not to downplay the heavy themes in Arcane but more as forewarning of what to expect in Blue Eye Samurai.
Arcane has a lot of fantasy violence as well as physical violence, and most of the scenes aren’t too gory. There are a few nightmare fuel scenes that are very intense. Sex is very mild, one very artistically made sex scene, and a nude shower scene with a lot of censor steam. There’s a brothel too but no sex is shown just implied.
Blue Eye Samurai as expected of its genre has a lot of gore, blood, decapitation, and extremely painful moments. The show uses its MA rating to its fullest with the nudity and sex. It stays clear from objectification and shows sex naturally. There’s prostitution and sex woven into the story and it is used to give depth to the show’s established themes. It shows sex how it is, no fan service shots at all.
Both shows knew what their target audience was and stuck to it. Arcane pushed all it can with its lower rating so the League’s younger audience could watch it, as well as non-league fans.
Blue Eye Samurai was written in mind of adult audiences and older teens.
Maturity rating shouldn’t be the only thing to judge a story on, it should be judged on the characters, themes and good writing. Avatar the Last Airbender is good example, it had great a story with many mature themes and it was a children’s show, a legendary one at that.
They both open up the conversations on real life social issues, their themes are integral in our world today even though one is set in the far past and the other in a fantasy world from a video game.
Worldbuilding
Both of the shows’ worlds are preexisting.
Arcane uses two cities in Runeterra, and much of its facets to build Arcane’s world foundation. Runeterra was already built, and expanded upon way before Arcane came to be, and its world building still continues today.
They focus mostly on the conflict between Zuan and Piltover since they are the most grounded cities, in League’s Lore. Zuan’s style is inspired by bio punk and gothic aesthetics and is the lower class where the main protagonists are from. It is often called the Undercity because it is quite literally below Piltover’s high elevation. Piltover’s aesthetics is inspired by steampunk and French architecture and are made very clearly as the upperclass. Much of the politics and is in Piltover.
Arcane quickly shows us the class divide, by their contrasting aesthetics and the people who live there very effectively. It is efficient with its world building, tying with its main themes and conflicts.
Blue Eye Samurai is set in Edo Japan, a time period where Japan isolated itself from the outside side world. Much of the world building takes its time by immersing you in this period. The many historically accurate details, the customs, clothing and most importantly the character’s struggles. Edo Japan is used to establish conflict with the main characters, and the main themes of xenophobia, racism, sexism and womanhood. A time where women were property, and those that backgrounds deviated from the norm were considered less than human.
Blue Eye Samurai shows us the brutality of its world, and also the beauty of it as well.
Both shows utilize an A plot and B plot to give us look of both sides of their class decides, giving us a rounded perspective, as we follow characters from vastly different backgrounds.
Style
Arcane obviously had a bigger budget because it was funded by Riot but that doesn’t mean Blue Eye Samurai looks bad or inferior.
Arcane’s style is like a fully rendered painting, with many details and paint strokes. As I mentioned with its world building, the contrasting aesthetics of both cities and inhabitants lends to Arcane unique style. Everything is painted,the characters, backgrounds and props. Fortiche has been developing its unique style for many years and you can see their developing style in Riots music videos, like Rise and K/DA Popstars.
Even though Arcane looks more polished, Blue Eye Samurai was taking inspiration from from Ukiyo, Japanese watercolor paintings and Bunraku puppets for its style. The rougher, flatter colored style lends it well for its dark revenge story and dynamic fight scenes. It also shows the great beauty of Edo Japan with its many painted landscape shots. The thin pencil outlines is also a quality which harkens back to hand drawn animation.
What both Arcane and Blue Eye Samurai were able to accomplish is subtle character expressions and acting which brings the realness to their characters. This included subtle eye movements, and expressions that can be accomplished by their semi-realistic characters. Both shows avoid cartoonish movements and expressions which keeps the characters very grounded.
Both shows do not use motion capture, but highly referenced by live performances and choreographed scenes.
Many of their the scenes, have amazing composition, and look like paintings which is why they are great for wallpapers.
It may be a French animation thing, where both shows can find the beauty in the natural and “ugly” parts of humans, like wrinkles, eye bags, and differing facial structures.
Voice Acting
Arcane has excellent voice acting including veteran voice actors like JB Blanc as Vander, Jason Spisak as Silco, and Mick Wingert as Hiemerdinger.
Hailee Steinfeld and Ella Purnell as Vi and Jinx were spot on with their performances, and were able to play their character’s emotions perfectly. Shout out to Mia Sinclair Jenness with her performance as Powder.
Other outstanding performances include Toks Olagundoye as Mel, Kevin Alejandro as Jayce, Harry Lloyd as Viktor, Katie Leung as Caitlyn and Amirah Vann as Sevika.
All of the voice acting performances were top tier with many well known voice actors, which enhanced the characters of Arcane.
Blue Eye Samurai also has great voice acting as well, even though it’s controversial because some think the performances were wooden, even though the voice actors were specifically chosen by the creators.
Blue Eye Samurai’s cast is all Asian and Asian mixed except for Kenneth Branagh who plays the villain role of Abijah Fowler.
Maya Erskine was specifically chosen by the creators for Mizu after loving her performance in Pen15. The creators didn’t want anyone else to play Mizu.
Other amazing voice performances include Brenda Song as Akemi, Darren Barnet as Taigon, Masi Oka as Ringo, Randall Park as Heiji Shindo, George Takei as Seki, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa as Swordfather and Ming-Na Wen as Madam Kaji.
The voice performances fit their character perfectly, bringing them to life. They were able to bring the emotion that was needed for this dark show.
Music
Arcane has so many bangers, from Enemy by Imagine Dragons to Snakes by Pvris and MIYAVI. There’s also so many hard hitting emotional songs like Goodbye by Ramsey, Guns For Hire by Woodkid and What Could Have Been by Sting.
Arcane definitely exceeds Blue Eye Samurai with its music which isn’t a surprise because Christian Linke is a musician and Riot is known for making banger music.
Blue Eye Samurai has a pretty soundtrack as well, which fits its Edo Japan setting. It utilizes most of its Japanese cover music for action scenes and as homages to other inspired works like Kill Bill. The best song of the soundtrack is the cover of For Whom The Bells toll by Metallic which is sung by Emi Meyer.
Common Criticism
Arcane is very tightly paced, this may lose people’s enjoyment since it doesn’t have very many slow moments to breathe between scenes It is up to the person’s personal tastes, it didn’t bother me, but it did for my brother who likes more breathing time to sit in the world
Arcane has music video scenes, this is up to your taste, this criticism is mostly on that imagine dragons cameo which may have took viewers out of it experience
Imagine Dragons is in it, you can always mute it since I know a lot of people hate Imagine Dragons
Blue Eye Samurai has a terrible English voice acting, the Japanese dub is better. This criticism comes from the fact people expecting it to be in Japanese as it original language and that Japanese characters should be speaking Japanese. I like the Japanese dub as well but I don’t think we need to drag the English voice actors through the mud. Another thing to note is that much of the sarcastic humor works better in English and doesn’t work as well in Japanese, sounding awkward to natives of the language.
Blue Eye Samurai has few rough scenes where the lighting doesn’t hit as well but it doesn’t take you out of the experience
The sound-mixing is a little off, I’ve never heard this but some reviewers have pointed it out.
Blue Eye Samurai isn’t historically accurate, the creators changed major historical points to serve their story, when going in just see it as an alternative history story, there is so many historically accurate things to it and a lot of care was put into it
Blue Eye Samurai isn’t realistic, due to the later fight scenes you may need to expand you disbelief although it’s along the line other media of similar genre like Kill Bill and John Wick
Blue Eye Samurai’s ending was rushed, there’s some weight to this since it was originally going to have 10 episodes instead of 8
Blue Eye Samurai and Arcane had terrible endings. Both have endings that open up for discussions of their second season. Endings that are either hated or liked by their fans but nonetheless hint at the wider narrative.
Final Thoughts
Well this turned out to be an essay.
I think you should try out both if you’ve haven’t, they’ve changed me for the better and it’s amazing for a new viewer. There’s a lot love and so much they do right despite some of the small criticisms. Each show had its own flavor and they both helped me pull myself from art block.
They are good gateway animated shows for people who aren’t into anime, or people who only believe animation is only for kids.

SPOILER FREE
This is more about how both shows are masterpieces in their own right. I am not going to pit these shows against each other, try to end the debate of which show is better nor am I going to convince you which is better. It is up to your own personal preferences and tastes to determine which you feel is better.
I am a huge fan of both series and I think anyone who loves animation and great storytelling should check out both. In my opinion, both are S tier shows and are on equal footing with each other. I won’t be spoiling anything just going over their merits and go over a few criticisms. I’ll try to be as unbiased as I can.
I am only covering season 1 of both series. Arcane’s second season will released in November 2024, and Blue Eye Samurai’s second season renewal just got announced, so keep that in mind.
What They Have in Common
Both are found on Netflix
They both have excellent writing, compelling characters, representation done right, strong motivations that drive the characters and nuances that avoid a binary narrative.
Know how to write women and men respectfully
They are both animated by French studios. Arcane was animated by Fortiche and Blue Eye Samurai was animated by Blue Spirit Studios.
They are 2D/3D animated hybrids. The characters are cgi, the backgrounds are painted and overlayed with 3D models/layered giving them dimension and the effects like blood, and fire are traditionally animated. They are both feats of animation, beautiful and pushing what western adult animation can be.
Great rewatching potential, both have great foreshadowed moments, excellent parallels and lots of fine details to pick apart.
They are both made by very passionate and talented people. This is what I think is one the biggest ingredients that lead to their success with audiences. There was a lot love and a lot respect for the artists behind them which is something Disney and Hollywood have been lacking.
The Creators
Alex Yee and Christian Linke really took a leap with Arcane, but they were determined for their version to come true and it paid off. I give them a lot of praise, because, before Arcane they never had experience with producing an animated tv show, and let alone writing one. Even though Arcane’s production time took a long time because early on it was scrapped, before being revived again, they were able to find a new team to help them with their story. As they worked on Arcane they learned how to plot out a compelling and complex storyline while keeping their vision. Fortiche also took a big leap too since Arcane is their first time animating a tv series. Most of their past projects for Riot were short animated music videos, a far cry from a whole tv series.
Michael Green and Amber Noizumi created Blue Eye Samurai because they were inspired by their daughter who was, to their surprise born with blue eyes. It is a story that is very personal, with Amber Noizumi personal experiences as a Japanese mixed woman, which lead to Mizu’s relatability to a wide audience. The couple’s inspiration and passion lead them pitching to their story to Netflix. Michael Green already had a lot writing, since he wrote the scripts for critical acclaimed films like Logan, and Bladerunner 2049. The couple were very experienced with live-action productions and tv animation was a new territory for them. With the direction from Jane Wu, the couple let the artists expand their vision and learned from animation veterans how animated projects worked. The couple also worked with several researchers that kept Blue Eye Samurai as historically accurate as possible. Blue Spirit Studio had experience with past animated series and projects before, and the team’s ability to bring Blue Eye Samurai to life is something to definitely praise.
Genre
Arcane is fantasy, but stays pretty grounded. It can get gritty, and it is preformed as a drama with well placed action packed scenes. Many compare its complexity with Game of Thrones but in a focused part of a larger world.
Blue Eye Samurai is historical but more alternative history wise because a few major historical events were changed to tell the narrative. It is basically a pulp fiction samurai revenge story. It has several elements of westerns fused with old samurai movies.
Depending on your tastes the biggest difference is Arcane’s protagonist, Vi is fueled by love while Mizu from Blue Eye Samurai is fueled by revenge.
Themes
Arcane
Sisterhood and brotherhood relationships
Childhood Trauma and Psychological damage
Systematic Oppression and political corruption
Class Divide
Progress, technology and the ethics of it
War and the cycle of violence
Xenophobia
Betrayal
Belonging
Blue Eye Samurai
Biracial discrimination, racism and xenophobia
Patriarchal Societal Pressures, and Traditionalism
Womanhood and sexism
How Far For Revenge
Colonialism and imperialism
Betrayal
Class Divide
Identity
Sex
Honor
Acceptance
Age Rating
Both shows are in the adult animation category.
Arcane is PG14 while Blue Eye Samurai is MA. This is not to downplay the heavy themes in Arcane but more as forewarning of what to expect in Blue Eye Samurai.
Arcane has a lot of fantasy violence as well as physical violence, and most of the scenes aren’t too gory. There are a few nightmare fuel scenes that are very intense. Sex is very mild, one very artistically made sex scene, and a nude shower scene with a lot of censor steam. There’s a brothel too but no sex is shown just implied.
Blue Eye Samurai as expected of its genre has a lot of gore, blood, decapitation, and extremely painful moments. The show uses its MA rating to its fullest with the nudity and sex. It stays clear from objectification and shows sex naturally. There’s prostitution and sex woven into the story and it is used to give depth to the show’s established themes. It shows sex how it is, no fan service shots at all.
Both shows knew what their target audience was and stuck to it. Arcane pushed all it can with its lower rating so the League’s younger audience could watch it, as well as non-league fans.
Blue Eye Samurai was written in mind of adult audiences and older teens.
Maturity rating shouldn’t be the only thing to judge a story on, it should be judged on the characters, themes and good writing. Avatar the Last Airbender is good example, it had great a story with many mature themes and it was a children’s show, a legendary one at that.
They both open up the conversations on real life social issues, their themes are integral in our world today even though one is set in the far past and the other in a fantasy world from a video game.
Worldbuilding
Both of the shows’ worlds are preexisting.
Arcane uses two cities in Runeterra, and much of its facets to build Arcane’s world foundation. Runeterra was already built, and expanded upon way before Arcane came to be, and its world building still continues today.
They focus mostly on the conflict between Zuan and Piltover since they are the most grounded cities, in League’s Lore. Zuan’s style is inspired by bio punk and gothic aesthetics and is the lower class where the main protagonists are from. It is often called the Undercity because it is quite literally below Piltover’s high elevation. Piltover’s aesthetics is inspired by steampunk and French architecture and are made very clearly as the upperclass. Much of the politics and is in Piltover.
Arcane quickly shows us the class divide, by their contrasting aesthetics and the people who live there very effectively. It is efficient with its world building, tying with its main themes and conflicts.
Blue Eye Samurai is set in Edo Japan, a time period where Japan isolated itself from the outside side world. Much of the world building takes its time by immersing you in this period. The many historically accurate details, the customs, clothing and most importantly the character’s struggles. Edo Japan is used to establish conflict with the main characters, and the main themes of xenophobia, racism, sexism and womanhood. A time where women were property, and those that backgrounds deviated from the norm were considered less than human.
Blue Eye Samurai shows us the brutality of its world, and also the beauty of it as well.
Both shows utilize an A plot and B plot to give us look of both sides of their class decides, giving us a rounded perspective, as we follow characters from vastly different backgrounds.
Style
Arcane obviously had a bigger budget because it was funded by Riot but that doesn’t mean Blue Eye Samurai looks bad or inferior.
Arcane’s style is like a fully rendered painting, with many details and paint strokes. As I mentioned with its world building, the contrasting aesthetics of both cities and inhabitants lends to Arcane unique style. Everything is painted,the characters, backgrounds and props. Fortiche has been developing its unique style for many years and you can see their developing style in Riots music videos, like Rise and K/DA Popstars.
Even though Arcane looks more polished, Blue Eye Samurai was taking inspiration from from Ukiyo, Japanese watercolor paintings and Bunraku puppets for its style. The rougher, flatter colored style lends it well for its dark revenge story and dynamic fight scenes. It also shows the great beauty of Edo Japan with its many painted landscape shots. The thin pencil outlines is also a quality which harkens back to hand drawn animation.
What both Arcane and Blue Eye Samurai were able to accomplish is subtle character expressions and acting which brings the realness to their characters. This included subtle eye movements, and expressions that can be accomplished by their semi-realistic characters. Both shows avoid cartoonish movements and expressions which keeps the characters very grounded.
Both shows do not use motion capture, but highly referenced by live performances and choreographed scenes.
Many of their the scenes, have amazing composition, and look like paintings which is why they are great for wallpapers.
It may be a French animation thing, where both shows can find the beauty in the natural and “ugly” parts of humans, like wrinkles, eye bags, and differing facial structures.
Voice Acting
Arcane has excellent voice acting including veteran voice actors like JB Blanc as Vander, Jason Spisak as Silco, and Mick Wingert as Hiemerdinger.
Hailee Steinfeld and Ella Purnell as Vi and Jinx were spot on with their performances, and were able to play their character’s emotions perfectly. Shout out to Mia Sinclair Jenness with her performance as Powder.
Other outstanding performances include Toks Olagundoye as Mel, Kevin Alejandro as Jayce, Harry Lloyd as Viktor, Katie Leung as Caitlyn and Amirah Vann as Sevika.
All of the voice acting performances were top tier with many well known voice actors, which enhanced the characters of Arcane.
Blue Eye Samurai also has great voice acting as well, even though it’s controversial because some think the performances were wooden, even though the voice actors were specifically chosen by the creators.
Blue Eye Samurai’s cast is all Asian and Asian mixed except for Kenneth Branagh who plays the villain role of Abijah Fowler.
Maya Erskine was specifically chosen by the creators for Mizu after loving her performance in Pen15. The creators didn’t want anyone else to play Mizu.
Other amazing voice performances include Brenda Song as Akemi, Darren Barnet as Taigon, Masi Oka as Ringo, Randall Park as Heiji Shindo, George Takei as Seki, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa as Swordfather and Ming-Na Wen as Madam Kaji.
The voice performances fit their character perfectly, bringing them to life. They were able to bring the emotion that was needed for this dark show.
Music
Arcane has so many bangers, from Enemy by Imagine Dragons to Snakes by Pvris and MIYAVI. There’s also so many hard hitting emotional songs like Goodbye by Ramsey, Guns For Hire by Woodkid and What Could Have Been by Sting.
Arcane definitely exceeds Blue Eye Samurai with its music which isn’t a surprise because Christian Linke is a musician and Riot is known for making banger music.
Blue Eye Samurai has a pretty soundtrack as well, which fits its Edo Japan setting. It utilizes most of its Japanese cover music for action scenes and as homages to other inspired works like Kill Bill. The best song of the soundtrack is the cover of For Whom The Bells toll by Metallic which is sung by Emi Meyer.
Common Criticism
Arcane is very tightly paced, this may lose people’s enjoyment since it doesn’t have very many slow moments to breathe between scenes It is up to the person’s personal tastes, it didn’t bother me, but it did for my brother who likes more breathing time to sit in the world
Arcane has music video scenes, this is up to your taste, this criticism is mostly on that imagine dragons cameo which may have took viewers out of it experience
Imagine Dragons is in it, you can always mute it since I know a lot of people hate Imagine Dragons
Blue Eye Samurai has a terrible English voice acting, the Japanese dub is better. This criticism comes from the fact people expecting it to be in Japanese as it original language and that Japanese characters should be speaking Japanese. I like the Japanese dub as well but I don’t think we need to drag the English voice actors through the mud. Another thing to note is that much of the sarcastic humor works better in English and doesn’t work as well in Japanese, sounding awkward to natives of the language.
Blue Eye Samurai has few rough scenes where the lighting doesn’t hit as well but it doesn’t take you out of the experience
The sound-mixing is a little off, I’ve never heard this but some reviewers have pointed it out.
Blue Eye Samurai isn’t historically accurate, the creators changed major historical points to serve their story, when going in just see it as an alternative history story, there is so many historically accurate things to it and a lot of care was put into it
Blue Eye Samurai isn’t realistic, due to the later fight scenes you may need to expand you disbelief although it’s along the line other media of similar genre like Kill Bill and John Wick
Blue Eye Samurai’s ending was rushed, there’s some weight to this since it was originally going to have 10 episodes instead of 8
Blue Eye Samurai and Arcane had terrible endings. Both have endings that open up for discussions of their second season. Endings that are either hated or liked by their fans but nonetheless hint at the wider narrative.
Final Thoughts
Well this turned out to be an essay.
I think you should try out both if you’ve haven’t, they’ve changed me for the better and it’s amazing for a new viewer. There’s a lot love and so much they do right despite some of the small criticisms. Each show had its own flavor and they both helped me pull myself from art block.
They are good gateway animated shows for people who aren’t into anime, or people who only believe animation is only for kids.

Last year I got diagnosed with Lupus, my doctor told me "It's okay even Selena Gomez has the same, don't let your illness dictate your life". That's how I found out about Gomez's medical condition.
Submitted my PhD thesis recently, got a lot of time in my hands so wanted to research about the celebrity who has the same medical condition as me. Been following Gomez since last year and was in awe of her because Lupus is terrible, especially when your kidneys are affected - 'cause never thought I'd be depressed but found myself crying due to the pain. And the pills we take are dreadful because they make us completely loose our self esteem due to the weight gain and the swelling in our face (most days I can't recognize my own face and how I used to be). So seeing her successful in different fields inspired me and motivated me to push forward. Hence became a fan.
Even though I'm a new fan became passionate about Gomez due to the shared illness (also saw few clips of her revival tour and wow she has a captivating screen presence). So did my research to know her more. Proud of her advocacy for mental health, liked few songs and movies and also bought RareBeauty for my sister which she adores.
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Recently was scrolling through gossip subs and saw the hate comments about Gomez - not surprised by the hate because most of their followers are just bitter and hateful.
But what surprised me is those multiple accounts are not only hating her but straight out spreading misinformation about her and her health on different posts and subs of her (which is inhuman and pathetic), these faceless accounts are even criticizing her appearance, weight and swelling of her face - These comments on these subs and Instagram actually converted me from a casual to a full fledged passionate fan.
So I went through multiple accounts on popculture & fauxmoi ran a code to see the common points. This is what I found more than 90% of them are just Justin Bieber stans and apologists the rest of them are mostly Ariana Grande,The Weeknd, Demi Lovato supporters They might've had a gc, multiple accounts or something 'cause they mass like hate comments of her and simultaneously like comments of Bieber and his wife. The moderators of these above mentioned subs are biased as hell and are probably the supporters of the above because any comment criticizing him are immediately removed.
Did some research on Bieber since he is her ex and the king of multiple SMG hate accs and pages. Found out these things just for few hr research.
Let's talk about Bieber and how his manager & team cleverly swept his physical abuse settlements in court under-the-rug, Dated few underage girls including his wife, Had multiple s assualt and rape allegations. He openly admitted to disrespecting women and abusing his relationships but said it was the drugs... (lmao kept using God to clean his image and posted multiple passages victimizing himself)
Selena Gomez said on record that "He abused her" yet He used Gomez name as a sole witness for the defamation case. Used Bill Cosby & Brett Ratner lawyer the go-to Hollywood lawyer who is famous for defending notorious abusers and rapists to silence his accusers, Gomez didn't comply hence Bieber dropped (since she was the key alibi). The "defamation case" - Is a tactic used by many abusers to terrify their further victims from coming forward - A recent suit in the music industry even talked about the "perilous practice of NDAs deployed by the entire music industry that exploits and silences victims."
Even Taylor Swift implied that his manager silences people/victims by making them sign the NDA "Never seen an NDA like this presented unless it was to silence an assault accuser by paying them off"
And damn also found out that Bieber's a literal racist who wanted to join the KKK, joking about the genocide of black people. Posted a apology note for those multiple racist videos on Instagram in 2014 saying "He's changed" but then again wore dreads in recent years like nothing happened.
Bonus points: His wife's also a well known high-school bully and a racist (like him) who not only hates dark skinned people but also all Asians, yay!
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Also seen a lot of videos/edits victimizing JB by his fans and others - About what he went through as a teenage male in the industry. Who by the way as recently (as Q4 of 2023) released a song with P.Diddy, Worked with R.Kelly and T.Lanez during their ongoing assault suits, One of the few celebrities who openly supported Chris Brown during his rapeaccusations, hung out Marilyn Manson and etc assault and rape convicted and accused celebrities
But the his supporters barely talk about how much female child celebs like - Selena Gomez, Hayden Panettiere ,... - went through in the same sickindustry who started their career when they were literal kids unlike the teenage Bieber.
I've seen many people talk about how Gomez worked with Woody Allen (before the #metoo movement) even when her mother said "no". Was disappointed at her due to this but during my research found out that - In 2018 not only did she regret & donated her salary to TimesUp fund. Unlike the slacktivism done by most of her peers, She actually volunteered and worked for six months at anti-human-trafficking nonprofit A21. Also found a long list of humanitarian work she has been doing since she was a teen. It surprised me because bare min publicity.
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Gomez is not "victimizing herself" she's literally a victim.
She worked in the industry since she was 7yrs to bring her family out of the poverty. Gomez was emotionally abused, has bipolar, anxiety and an autoimmune disease. Even wrote her will because she thought she could die in 2017. [There were actually rumors saying that SG stole the kidney which were also created by Bieber fans like Shallon Lester, The donor literally had to go on multiple interviews to debunk repeatedly, and say that she selflessly donated due to God but most people who dislike Gomez still believe those rumors till this day] She has been bullied and lied upon by her haters like 'exposing smg' since 2011... It's sick :/ Gomez also went through a steroid induced psychosis said has no memory of it and had to relearn certain words.
Yet many are so dismissive of her mental health and struggles so that they can subjugate her to the same judgement as others they hate and despise. Saying she’s victimizing herself when she's actually the victim is just ridiculous. Let's use our brains, people.
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Used to believe that Gomez had the best PR team which surprisingly turned out to be the opposite. Her team is terrible, they're lucky that she's a good human, easy to work with and barely any controversies even with her mental health issues, saw that the fans and people who met her mostly adore her, the crew and cast who have worked with her have nothing but good things to say, praising her work ethic and humility. Main issue with her team's incompetency is that they don't clear rumors or sue these accounts.
But not everyone are interested in the facts or spend their time researching, most believe whatever they read on the internet. TBH if I haven't submitted my thesis and didn't have free time or a knack for research I'd have never bothered with this sh*t either.

Book: RMB > TDAI > TVWLM
TV Show: Season 2 > QC > Season 1
I don’t understand why people don’t like season 2 or think it was mishandled when it had the best music choices, the best costumes, pretty amazing accuracy to Indian hair, makeup, culture and jewellery. It had the best new cast (Simone, Shelly and Charithra were amazing. Austin too!), the best directing and the best love decelerations. We love Kanthony so much because of tptb, and yet all we do as fans is whine about how they’ve been “mistreated” as if it’s shonda’s fault that JB decided to do a play. Before you get to Simone, she was literally everywhere. It’s not Shondaland’s fault that you weren’t big enough of a fan to actually pay attention to all the magazine covers she was on, all the write ups about her and more. She was also the only one making rounds in American tv shows like Ellen and Jimmy Kimmel and Netflix threw a party with tons of South Asians celebs celebrating her.

What are Nāga and why are they significant?
In various Asian religious traditions, the Nagas are a divine, or semi-divine, race of half-human, half-serpent beings that reside in the netherworld (Patala), and can occasionally take human or part-human form, or are so depicted in art. A female naga is called a Nagi, or a Nagini. According to legend, they are the children of the sage Kashyapa and Kadru. Rituals devoted to these supernatural beings have been taking place throughout South Asia for at least 2,000 years.They are principally depicted in three forms: as entirely human with snakes on the heads and necks, as common serpents, or as half-human, half-snake beings in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Nagaraja is the title given to the king of the nagas. Narratives of these beings hold cultural significance in the mythological traditions of many South Asian and Southeast Asian cultures, and within Hinduism and Buddhism. Communities such as the Nagavanshi, Khmer, Kshatriyas, and Eelamese claim descent from this race. The serpent race that often take form as cobras can often be found in Hindu iconography. The nagas are described as the powerful, splendid, wonderful, and proud semi-divine race that can assume their physical form either as human, a partial human-serpent, or as a whole serpent. Their domain is in the enchanted underworld, the underground realm filled with gems, gold and other earthly treasures called Naga-loka or Patala-loka. They are also often associated with bodies of waters — including rivers, lakes, seas, and wells — and are guardians of treasure.Their power and venom made them potentially dangerous to humans. However, in Hindu mythology, they often take the role of benevolent protagonists; in the Samudra Manthan, Vasuki, a nagaraja who abides on Shiva's neck, became the churning rope for churning of the Ocean of Milk. Their eternal mortal foe is the Garuḍa, the legendary semi-divine bird-like deity. Vishnu is originally portrayed in the form sheltered by Sheshanāga or reclining on Shesha, but the iconography has been extended to other deities as well. The serpent is a common feature in Ganesha iconography, and appears in many forms: around the neck, use as a sacred thread (Sanskrit: yajñyopavīta) wrapped around the stomach as a belt, held in a hand, coiled at the ankles, or as a throne. Shiva is often shown garlanded with a snake.
The Nāga are the followers of Virūpākṣa (Pāli: Virūpakkha), one of the Four Heavenly Kings who guards the western direction. They act as a guard upon Mount Sumeru, protecting the dēvas of Trāyastriṃśa from attack by the asuras. Among the notable nagas of Buddhist tradition is Mucalinda, nagaraja and protector of the Buddha. In the Vinaya Sutra (I, 3), shortly after his enlightenment, the Buddha is meditating in a forest when a great storm arises, but graciously, King Mucalinda gives shelter to the Buddha from the storm by covering the Buddha's head with his seven snake heads.Then the king takes the form of a young Brahmin and renders the Buddha homage.
Video of Naga Shrine inauguration: https://youtu.be/YynHXUy22Ao?si=jbHYWIHK8qAUNJ65