Latest news with #folklore
Associated Press
6 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Madame Tussauds Unveils 13 New Taylor Swift Figures in Historic Global Launch
Madame Tussauds Hong Kong's new Taylor Swift wax figure will celebrate the folklore era, as part of the global entertainment brand's biggest launch to date HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 23 July 2025 - In news that's sure to make every Swiftie's wildest dreams come true, global entertainment brand Madame Tussauds today unveils its biggest figure launch to date, creating not one, but 13 brand new Taylor Swift wax figures. The figures, launching in 13 cities across four continents, will make guests feel as if they've stepped on stage at Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour. @madametussaudshongkong #madametussaudshongkong #ThePeak This simultaneous multi-figure launch is the most ambitious in Madame Tussauds' 250-year history, reflecting Taylor Swift's standing as one of the most influential and enduring artists of the 21st century. The trailblazing star recently wrapped her record-breaking Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour – selling-out 149 dates across five continents – and now Madame Tussauds marks this legacy by immortalising iconic moments from the historic tour for fans around the world. Laura Sheard, Global Brand Director at Madame Tussauds, said: 'Taylor Swift is a generational icon and a cultural powerhouse. Madame Tussauds has a centuries-old legacy of holding a mirror up to the world of fame, immortalising the profiles that are making an imprint on the day's culture. Taylor Swift's influence spans music, fashion, film, activism and even the economy. The phenomenal success of her record-smashing tour is the perfect moment for Madame Tussauds to immortalise with 13 figures – Taylor's lucky number – across four continents to ensure we're reaching as many fans as possible. We just know they are going to love it as much as we do.' A team of more than 40 highly skilled Madame Tussauds artists has been working tirelessly for 14 months on the exciting project, which features each of the 13 figures dressed in a unique fan-favourite look from Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour. Images and footage released today reveal the Madame Tussauds Hong Kong figure celebrates the folklore era in show-stopping style. Featuring dramatic split sleeves and leaf detailing embellishment, the new figure is dressed in a flowing green Alberta Ferretti dress, specially created by the designer for Madame Tussauds Hong Kong. The look is finished with green lace up boots and bespoke microphone created by Rebel Stage Gear UK, the specialist customisation company behind the original microphones Taylor used during Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour. Danielle Cullen, Madame Tussauds' Senior Figure Stylist said: 'This is the most ambitious project in Madame Tussauds' 250-year history which only feels right to reflect the stratospheric status of Taylor Swift. We're honoured to have worked closely with fashion houses like Roberto Cavalli, Vivienne Westwood, Versace, Christian Louboutin, Alberta Ferretti and Etro to recreate some of the Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour's most iconic looks – many of which will have special significance to the cities the 13 new figures will call home. It feels a fitting celebration to give Swifties the chance to commemorate moments from this once-in-a-generation tour in a way that only Madame Tussauds can.' Today's launch marks the biggest undertaking by Madame Tussauds since unveiling seven Harry Styles figures in 2023 and eight Lady Gaga figures in 2011. Rolling out across the world-famous entertainment brand's global estate, the new figures will appear in the Amsterdam, Berlin, Blackpool, Budapest, Hollywood, Hong Kong, Las Vegas, London, Nashville, New York, Orlando and Sydney attractions, with a touring figure kicking off its residency in Shanghai. Following today's iconic unveiling, fans will be able to visit Madame Tussauds Hong Kong's new Taylor Swift wax figure at the attraction from 24 July 2025. Keep an eye out on Madame Tussauds' social channels for more news on this historic launch. Madame Tussauds Hong Kong Social Media Accounts Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Twitter: Xiaohongshu: Douyin: Weibo: WeChat: (Search "香港杜莎夫人蜡像馆") Hashtag: #madametussaudshongkong #ThePeak The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Madame Tussauds Madame Tussauds has been inviting people to walk the red carpet and get closer to the revered for over 250 years. With 22 attractions in the world's top destination cities, we are dedicated to giving millions of visitors the opportunity to mingle with the mighty from A-listers to music legends, heroes of sport, to world leaders. Today, we continue to partner with the global icons of a generation to create astonishing lifelike figures from sittings and offer exciting and interactive experiences to ensure guests have never felt closer to fame. About Merlin Entertainments Merlin Entertainments is a world leader in branded entertainment destinations, offering a diverse portfolio of resort theme parks, city-centre gateway attractions and LEGOLAND® Resorts which span across the UK, US, Western Europe, China and Asia Pacific. Dedicated to creating experiences that inspire joy and connection, Merlin welcomes more than 62 million guests annually to its diverse global estate in over 20 countries. An expert in bringing world-famous entertainment brands to life, Merlin works with partners including the LEGO® Group, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Peppa Pig, DreamWorks and Ferrari to create destinations where guests can immerse themselves in a wide array of brand-driven worlds, rides and uplifting learning experiences. See for more information.
CTV News
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- CTV News
Maritime author highlights iconic ghost stories from Atlantic Canada
Atlantic Canada has its fair share of haunted tales, and one local artist and author brought more of those spooky stories to light. The book 'Atlantic Ghosts: Tales from the Haunted Coast' highlights ghost stories from across the region alongside illustrations by the book's author, Bee Stanton. 'Basically, they're just I believe 24 illustrations accompanied by just quick blurbs of the haunted tale or account that goes with the illustrations. So they're just black and white pen and ink illustrations of the iconic imagery that might go with that or something aesthetically pleasing that would go along with the ghost story,' said Stanton. Stanton got the inspiration for the book while taking part in an annual drawing challenge called 'Inktober.' 'You do basically pen and ink drawings every day for the entire month and I love taking part in it, but I also love local folk lore, and it occurred to me one year that the prompt would be really cool if it was local folk lore, haunted telling's, stuff like that,' she said. There's no shortage of supernatural and folk tales in Atlantic Canada, with iconic stories like the lady in blue that haunts Peggy's Cove, the hag with two faces of Bell Island, N.L., and even the ghost named Captain George who has a reserved seat at the King's Playhouse in Georgetown, P.E.I. Stanton says the stories from the Maritimes have a particular charm to them. 'I do love that the Maritime ghost stories have more of an eerie vibe rather than a scare the pants off you terrifying vibe, even just the aspect of fog, who doesn't love fog on a spooky night, it automatically just gives you the feeling of ghost stories. So I love anything nautical in Maritimes as well, so just combining all of those things with my art just brought on this love, this passion,' she said.
Irish Times
5 days ago
- General
- Irish Times
Red Warning - Frank McNally on why Galway fishermen dread foxes
Saint MacDara, whose feast day and associated pilgrimage by Connemara fishermen featured elsewhere in these pages on Thursday, is a rare example of a holy man known only by his surname. This is because his first name was Sionnach, meaning 'fox'. And it has long been a superstition among fishing communities, not just in Ireland but as far away as Brittany, that any mention of foxes on a boat is sure to bring bad luck. Their belief was recorded by the antiquarian R.A.S. Macalister when, making the pilgrimage in July 1895, he pondered why the saint was so known: 'Sinach [as Macallister spelt it] was his proper name; but he is always called after his father, the meaning of that word (a fox) had anything to do with its non-application…we can only infer; anyhow the fact remains that this name was dropped, and the Saint was one of the first to have a surname, for reasons best known to those who applied it.' READ MORE Such was the strength of the superstition that anyone sighting or hearing of foxes while on the way to sea would turn back and abandon the day's fishing. But it wasn't just foxes, Macallister explained. Quoting John O'Donovan, of Ordnance Survey fame, he noted a range of four-legged animals equally dreaded by Galway fishermen: 'They cannot bear to hear the name of a fox, hare, or rabbit pronounced, and should they chance to see either (sic) of those animals living or dead, or hear the name of either expressed before setting out to fish…they would not venture out that day.' This being a big hurling weekend, I'm reminded of an immortal quip from the late Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh, covering a game between Tipperary and Galway in the 1990s: 'Pat Fox has it on his hurl and is motoring well here comes Joe Rabbitte hot on his tail...I've seen it all now, a Rabbitte chasing a Fox around Croke Park.' Well, witty as it was, that's another story you couldn't mention on a fishing boat off Galway, apparently. Down in Kerry, meanwhile, the prohibition extends to pigs. According to the blog sight or mention of anything porcine there was traditionally sufficient reason to give up fishing for the day. If a pig had to feature in conversation at sea, it was by euphemism, as 'the fellow with the curly tail'.' In similar vein, the fox was 'the bushy-tailed fellow' or 'the fellow with the pointed ears'. Even the foxy words 'red' or 'rua' were avoided in boats. Hence a Blasket Islander named Pádraig O Guithin, who was known as Pádraig Rua on land but became Peadaí deaghdhathach' ('brilliant-coloured Paddy') at sea. Getting back to Oileán Mhic Dara, the saint himself had an ominous reputation. In his report on this week's pilgrimage, Simon Carswell noted a tradition whereby boats passing the island dip their sails three times. Not to do so is (or at least used to be) an invitation to trouble. Macallister quotes a story from 1672, about 'a certain captain of the garrison of Galway' who, after passing the island without the usual ceremony 'was so tossed with sea and storme that he vowed he would never pass there again without paying his obeysance'. It was too late. Before the captain had a chance to revisit the island, he went down in a shipwreck. A few years after that, in the case of 'one Gill, a fisherman of Galway', vengeance was swifter and more direct. Refusing to strike his sail at the island, he went 'not a mile beyond' when, on an otherwise calm day, the mast was toppled by a sudden gale 'and struck him on the pate dead'. The comic novelist Mervyn Wall wrote about Oileán Mhic Dara for The Irish Times in 1968. He noted then that the superstition concerning four-legged animals extended to deer. This being so, it seemed a sinister coincidence that there was a 'Deer Island' close to MacDara's, something that had proved very bad luck once for a group of British soldiers. Wall heard from locals the story about how a fugitive named O'Donnell was arrested while disguised as a priest near the village of Carna, but bargained with his captors by claiming to have buried gold on Deer Island, for a planned escape to America. So the five soldiers rowed there with him but made the mistake of getting out of the boat first and throwing him a rope. Naturally, he cut the rope and floated away, throwing himself into the hold to avoid their gunshots. Back on the mainland, he then dissuaded locals from rescuing the troops, who by the time they were found had starved to death. It might have been just a story. But there was a place on Deer Island called the 'Mound of the Strangers'. And an old man in Roundstone told Wall that as a boy, circa 1910, he and friends had dug a little into the mound, finding there a well-preserved belt buckle with the initials for 'Highland Light Infantry'.
Geek Tyrant
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Geek Tyrant
Willem Dafoe in Talks to Reunite With Robert Eggers for WERWULF — GeekTyrant
Robert Eggers is assembling a killer lineup for his next film, Werwulf , and it looks like Willem Dafoe will be part of it. The Oscar-nominated actor is in talks to star opposite Aaron Taylor-Johnson, with Lily-Rose Depp also circling a role. Eggers will direct and co-write the script with his The Northman collaborator, Sjón. Werwulf is set for a Christmas Day 2026 release in North America through Focus Features, which is also producing and financing the project. Eggers and Sjón will produce alongside Focus, with Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner of Working Title, and Chris and Eleanor Columbus executive producing for Maiden Voyage. As for Werwulf , the term originates from Old English and Germanic folklore, referring to a human who can transform into a wolf or a wolf-like creature. Sources say the story is set in 13th century England. The script also features dialogue that was true to the time period and has translations and annotations for those uninitiated in Old English. This would mark the fourth collaboration between Eggers and Dafoe, who previously starred in The Lighthouse , The Northman , and Nosferatu . The two are also eyeing another project together, a new adaptation of A Christmas Carol at Warner Bros., with Eggers directing and Dafoe in early talks to star. Dafoe continues to stay busy as he recently appeared in A24's The Legend of Ochi and is currently filming the Apple Original Films project Tenzing . Up next, he'll appear in The Man in the Basement and The Birthday Party . Werwulf is shaping up to be another haunting, visually stunning entry in the filmmaker's growing body of mythic tales. Mark your calendars for December 25, 2026. Source: Deadline
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
What Kind of Fairy You Are, Based on Your Birth Month
What Kind of Fairy You Are, Based on Your Birth Month originally appeared on Parade. When you think of fairies, Tinkerbell from Peter Pan or Flora, Fauna, and Merriweather from Sleeping Beauty may immediately come to mind. Pop culture typically displays fairies as cute little do-gooder sprites. In actuality, 'fairy' is a rather broad term to describe an array of mythical creatures that have human-like characteristics and supernatural powers. Fairies are commonly found in European folklore, some described as 'fae' or 'fae folk.' Sometimes, fairies have positive connotations, such as the kindly fairy godmother who helps Cinderella. More often than not, fairies are typically mischievous creatures that are equally respected and feared in mythology. Each fairy has special powers that combine magic with the natural world. According to mystics, occultists, and fae devotees, each birth month is assigned its very own fairy. What fairy aligns with you? What Fairy Are You Paired With, Based on Your Birth Month? Check for the month you were born for pro insights. January - The Fairy of Snowflakes Cool, calm, and collected perfectly describe those born in January. These individuals embody the crisp winter weather, which is why January-born aligns with the Fairy of Snowflakes. This special fairy controls the winter wonderland that the January-born are familiar with. The Fairy of Snowflakes has power over the winter storms, ranging from biting frosts to whirling blizzards depending on the mood. Not only does January-born resonate with this fairy's chilly disposition, but January-born will also love this fairy's ice-blue and silver appearance. January-born can always call upon the Fairy of Snowflakes for a mid-winter surprise. February - The Fairy of Wind Of all birth months, February birthdays always take the world by surprise. These individuals have a whirlwind of energy and an ever-changing personality. The Fairy of Wind feels called to those born in February. Light on its feet and ever moving, the Fairy of Wind has a mutable disposition. February-born know when their fairy is swayed as the winds change. Whether the air feels alive with emotion and anticipation, February-born resonates with whatever the Fairy of Wind is going through. These flighty, finicky people have an affinity for the Fairy of Wind, because they see themselves in this sprite. March - The Fairy of Dreams March-born have an otherworldly personality. Those born in this month are highly attuned with astral travel and lucid dreaming. It's no surprise that March-born are natural seers, which is why the Fairy of Dreams comes to them. The Fairy of Dreams is ultra-mystical, as this fae has a magical yet undefined look. The Fairy of Dreams has a cozy, yet far-off vibe. Like March birthdays are at home with the Fairy of Dreams as they wander fantastical dimensions together. The Fairy of Dreams can help those born in March tap into other worlds, spiritual energies, and psychic gifts while sleeping. READ: The Color Palette of Your Aura, Based on Birth Month April - The Fairy of Storms April babies share a thunderous personality and larger-than-life energy. Those born during this month are boisterous, excitable, and confident. Nothing deters April-born from going after what they want. Their electric personality summons the Fairy of Storms. Bright and ecstatic, the Fairy of Storms shares April-born's wavering emotionality. The Fairy of Storms can bring on a sunny day with clear skies or an impromptu spring shower depending on the vibe. April-born understands how quickly the Fairy of Storms cycles through its feelings. Together, April birthdays and the Fairy of Storms are a force to reckon with. May - The Fairy of Blossoms As the old saying goes, 'April showers bring May flowers.' Thanks to April-born and their Fairy of Storms, those born in May are connected with the Fairy of Blossoms. May's special fairy only blooms during this month. The Fairy of Blossoms represents the renewing energy of springtime. May-born will know when the Fairy of Blossoms is around. A rainbow of flower petals follows this delicate sprite wherever it goes as the Fairy of Blossoms beckons each bud to spring forward. May-born can honor this fairy by tending to their gardens and caring for their flora. June - The Fairy of the Fables Can anyone mentally and intellectually keep up with those born in June? June birthdays are beloved for their curiosity and wit. They are often gifted mercurials, which intrigues the Fairy of the Fables. Of all fae folks, the Fairy of the Fables is the trickiest. This sprite is known for its wealth of knowledge, tongue twisters, gossip, and more. June-born will feel drawn to this fae, because the Fairy of the Fables promises intellectual stimulation. The Fairy of the Fables connects with June birthdays over their shared appreciation for storytelling and getting a kick out of duping others. July - The Fairy of the Luminaries July birthdays align with both the sun and the moon. The sun provides warmth and vitality whereas the moon sustains emotional strength and support to those born in this month. As July babies call upon the stars, the Fairy of the Luminaries awakens. This unique fairy has the magical energy of both the sun and moon within, aligning with July-born's luminosity. July babies will feel this sprite's presence basking under the sun's rays or dreaming under the moonlight. The Fairy of the Luminaries will help July-born harness their true potential and unlock their star powers. OTHER: Timeless, Old Soul? 4 Signs You Carry Ancient Wisdom in Your Soul August - The Fairy of Animals Animals of all kinds are drawn to those born in August. These individuals are attuned to all life forms, especially animals. August babies immediately connect and understand all animals. Their high levels of empathy resonate with the Fairy of Animals. Creatures of all kinds flock to the Fairy of Animals for anything they need. Similar to the fae, August-born often provides immense relief, love, and care to all beasts. Together, they make a significant difference in each living being's life. Both the sprite and August-born are always willing to care for any critter. September - The Fairy of Love Is there anything more important than love? As die-hard romantics, September-born love deeply. These individuals truly believe that everyone has a soulmate, which fuels their desire to find their partner. Their open heart and desire to find romance sings to the Fairy of Love. This special sprite can assist September birthdays in manifesting their soulmates. However, it's possible that September-born will fall for the Fairy of Love, and vice versa. Having a romantic connection with the fae might be all the encouragement September-born need to leave the human world forever to join their lover in fairyland. October - The Fairy of Sensuality No other birth month embodies their primal passions like those born in October. These individuals feel at home in their bodies. October-born know exactly what they like and how they like it. Their confidence oozes a sexual appeal that the Fairy of Sensuality cannot resist. Of all the birth months, October has the highest probability of falling for their fairy. The Fairy of Sensuality and October-born tempt one another. Seduction may happen, so October-born ought to be careful. Having a sexual relationship with the fae folk can be risky business for humans. NEXT: Mercury Retrograde Hits—These 3 Zodiac Signs Will Feel It Hardest November - The Fairy of Wanderlust Where can those born in November go? These individuals have an adventurous spirit that beckons the Fairy of Wanderlust. This sprite goes wherever November-born go. The Fairy of Wanderlust has an adaptable spirit and positive outlook, making them the perfect travel companion. November birthdays never have to worry or wonder if a trip will go well as long as they honor the Fairy of Wanderlust. Honoring this fairy almost always guarantees a trip of a lifetime. This worldly sprite happily accepts offerings from recent trips—food, drinks, and trinkets are greatly appreciated. December - The Fairy of Yule Merriment is around the corner, as December-born eagerly look forward to celebrating their birthday and Yule. December babies share a joyous nature, which draws the Fairy of Yule out of its slumber and to the festivities. The Fairy of Yule is an ancient fae that only comes out for the holiday season. This jolly fae favors those born in December and will typically do something extra for all of the birthdays. In true fairy tradition, December-born are encouraged to give the Fairy of Yule a gift if they accept the fae's birthday gift. What Kind of Fairy You Are, Based on Your Birth Month first appeared on Parade on Jul 16, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 16, 2025, where it first appeared. Solve the daily Crossword
