Best of the Spectator

Daniel Swift, a scholar and author of 'The Dream Factory', sheds light on the intriguing world of Elizabethan theater and its profound effect on Shakespeare's work. He discusses the birth of London’s first playhouse, tackling the struggles playwrights faced while evolving from stigmatization to celebrated status. Swift explores the influence of immigrant artisans on London's cultural landscape and highlights the economic challenges of Shakespearean theater. He also reflects on the serendipitous collaborations that shaped Shakespeare's legacy in a flourishing yet tumultuous artistic environment.

Mary-Ellen McTague is a celebrated chef from Manchester, known for her innovative restaurants and community initiative, Eat Well MCR. She shares her childhood memories of being a selective eater and how a love for Lancashire hotpot shaped her culinary journey. The conversation dives into Manchester's evolving food scene and the importance of sustainability at her new venture, Pip. Mary-Ellen also highlights the value of communal dining, the challenges women face in the kitchen, and her dreams of perfect comfort foods. A rich tale of nostalgia and inspiration!

In this engaging discussion, Bill Hayton shares insights on the complex nature of Chinese identity shaped by history and culture. Noah Barkin addresses the intricate ties between Europe and China, while Bill Bishop dives into Xi Jinping's consolidation of power. Elizabeth Ingleson critiques the role of American interests in China's economic rise. Lastly, Charles Parton underscores Taiwan's strategic importance and its implications for global trade amidst rising tensions. Together, these experts unravel the multifaceted narrative of modern China.

Luke Coppen, a journalist at The Pillar known for his insights on the Catholic Church, joins host Damian Thompson to delve into the upcoming papal conclave that will decide Pope Francis’s successor. They discuss the intense rivalry among cardinals and the critical implications for the Church’s future. Luke highlights potential candidates like Parolin and Pizzaballa while examining the divisions on issues such as same-sex blessings and traditional practices. The conversation captures the exciting yet pivotal moment in Church history.

The word ‘unprecedented’ is often overused in politics, but these local elections have proved to be just that. The headline is: sweeping success for Reform. Nigel Farage's 'teal tsunami' comes at the expense of the main parties – turning the two-party consensus on its head. The recriminations for Labour and the Tories have already begun. On the left, a number of MPs have broken cover and urged the government to shift its position on high-salience issues such as winter fuel. On the right, Kemi Badenoch’s leadership is looking increasingly shaky, with Tory MPs and staff warning that a step change is needed. Where do the main parties go from here? And can anyone stop Nigel? James Heale speaks to Isabel Hardman and The Spectator’s incoming political editor, Tim Shipman. This episode was recorded as part of The Spectator’s local elections live broadcast. You can watch the full coverage here.

On this week’s Spectator Out Loud: Ian Williams looks at Chinese influence in the UK (1:39); Philip Patrick interviews Japan’s last ninja (9:35); Guy Stagg reviews Damian Le Bas and explores the myths behind the city of Atlantis (18:23); Ysenda Maxtone Graham reviews an exhibition on school dinners at the Food Museum in Stowmarket (23:38); Mark Mason provides his notes on quizzes, ahead of the Spectator’s garden quiz (28:00); and, swapping Provence to visit family in America, Catriona Olding takes us on a trip up the east coast (31:27).  Produced and presented by Patrick Gibbons.

Victor Davis Hanson, a classicist and social commentator, dives into the implications of Donald Trump's second term, framing it as a counter-revolution against decades of cultural drift. He discusses Trump's bold agenda, from immigration reforms to challenging DEI initiatives, portraying it as a response to elite institutions. Hanson highlights the widening gap between coastal elites and the working class, critiques the coarseness of political discourse, and draws parallels between contemporary America and ancient Rome's societal divides.

Michael Gove, The Spectator's editor and former Justice Secretary, dives into the radical influence of Garden Court Chambers on British law. Writer Louise Perry discusses the allure of Dubai for British youth, touching on its cultural export that may shift London's character. Royal commentator Angela Levin and writer Philip Hensher explore society's lasting obsession with Princess Diana, reflecting on her impact and legacy nearly three decades on, raising questions about public mourning and the monarchy's evolving relationship with its people.

My guest on this week’s podcast is the historian Anne Sebba. In her new book The Women’s Orchestra of Auschwitz: A Story of Survival, Anne tells the story of how a ragtag group of women musicians formed in the shadow of Auschwitz’s crematoria. She tells me about the moral trade-offs, the friendships and enmities that formed, and what it meant to try to create music in a situation of unrelenting horror.

James Heale, Deputy Political Editor at The Spectator, discusses Mark Carney's remarkable victory in the Canadian elections. He highlights how Carney turned a struggling Liberal Party around in just six weeks, leveraging Trump's contentious rhetoric to strengthen Canadian pride. The conversation critiques Pierre Poilievre's political missteps and examines the branding dynamics in Canadian politics. Heale also explores what UK political parties can learn from Canada's shifting landscape, particularly regarding youth voter engagement and strategy.