Sarah Paulson nobly took one for the team by refusing to sit out the $100,000-a-head event at the Met Gala, wearing a dollar bill covering her eyes in apparent protest of the 1%. The annual ball, which raises money for the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum, saw prominent holdouts including Zohran Mamdani, Zendaya, and Taraji P Henson. Mamdani, the mayor of New York, declined his invitation and instead paid tribute to garment workers online. Zendaya cited work reasons for her absence, while Henson expressed confusion over attendees. This year's event was sponsored by Jeff Bezos, drawing criticism for hosting billionaire supporters of the American president who has slashed arts funding.
Macron's Musical Performance in Armenia
On Tuesday, French President Emmanuel Macron sang Charles Aznavour's "La Boheme" at a state dinner in Yerevan, accompanied by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on drums. This political theatre, reminiscent of Obama's Amazing Grace or Trump's truck photo op, showcased Macron's vulnerability despite his low poll ratings in France. His performance, while lacking in singing ability, was marked by sheepish grins and a plea for understanding.
Harrow International School's Fee Cuts
On Wednesday, Harrow International School in Long Island slashed its fees from $61,700 to $50,544 due to low enrollment, with only 20 students and 23 teachers. The school, a branch of the prestigious British boarding school, has struggled to convince American parents of its pedigree, despite aggressive advertising on NPR. This resistance may stem from historical tensions tied to July 4th.
Michael Frayn's Radio 4 Interview
On Thursday, Michael Frayn, now 92 and retired after a seven-decade career, spoke to Radio 4 about his novel Spies, which was based on a childhood friendship with a boy who had a bullying father. He also discussed his translations of Chekhov, emphasizing Chekhov's humor, and his novel Towards the End of the Morning, which featured a character based on a former Observer editor who never recognized himself. Frayn expressed that his writing days are over, but his legacy remains rich.
Ikea Bedroom Makeover Struggles
On Friday, a bedroom makeover required disassembling two Ikea cabin beds, a task made difficult by cam locks. These screw mechanisms required lying on the floor to align arrows, but they were stuck and resistant to hammer blows or Croc kicks. After splintering MDF and much swearing, the task was completed, leaving the writer exhausted.
