The World in a Weekend

WI

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Behind The Steam

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW!

Our very own teacher in The Bourne Legacy!

Some Like It Hot Special!

Model United Nations Assembly 2012

Hayley Grafton as Sugar Cane. Photo Credit: Jun Santos

Cov

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s The World in a Weekend: MUNA 2012Model United Nations Assembly 2012

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Jake

Bat

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Yuj

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suda

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Jerry

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Osg

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in th is issue

Some Like It Hot Special

Exclusive Interview: The Bourne Legacy

“One of the greatest comedies ever!”

With Ruth and Ms. Taylor!

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From The Editors 4

Mixtape 5

Jetsetters 26

Service Spotlight 38

The Top 5 39

Lit Corner 41

Feeling too mainstream? Check out these tunes!

Learn more about the BSM Red Cross Youth Council!

French Kiss: Take a look at what the City of Love has to offer!

Foods For Your Bucketlist: These crazy foods are a must try!

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features

Josh

ua W

hyte

and

Car

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Rob

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Jun

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Seaside Science

Some Like It Hot? I Sure Do!

In The Eyes of a Child

From Barongs To Burberry

How Whitney Houston Changed The World

The Weirdest Invention That Made Millions: The Pet Rock

Photography Contest Collage

Discovering Lago de Oro

Year 10 and 12 Production Review

Remembering a Legend

Stone-cold Stunning

Sentiments of a BSM Student

A Close-up On Nature

A Glimpse Into Fashion In Manila

FROM THE

E!torsEditorial Board

Editor-In-Chief

Thomas MacDonald

Managing Director

Brendon Go

Layout Editor

Janelle Ashley Sy

Features Editor

Patricia Tan

News Editor

Kyle Tinga

Commissioning Editor

Alyssa Elasin

On behalf of the entire newspaper staff, I’d like to begin by thanking you.

Yes, you: the wonderful person reading this magazine right now. After all, without readers, the only thing that separates a publication from sheets of paper is ink. By the simple act of opening this magazine, you have validated all the sweat and energy spent to put it together. Thank you.

Now, I would like to apologise for your confusion. You may have been expecting a newspaper of sorts to appear on your computer screen. Instead, you were greeted by a black and white cover page and a teasing “W”. This is no mistake. Words of Winston has undergone a transformation.

The first thing that the editorial team noticed when we picked up the newspaper from the previous editors was the stunning lack of news. Our news writers totaled to a less than astounding ten. Where we lacked for in news, we more than made up for in other aspects. Creativity was abundant. We had articles on food, fashion, phones, and more food. Many of the articles seemed better suited for a magazine than a newspaper. So we played the hand we were dealt: we decided to make a magazine.

This decision seemed to pan out well. The weekly newsletter sent out by the British School Manila, the Lion’s Roar, already handled most of the news in the school. The newsletter lacked a student’s perspective, and that is exactly what the magazine brings to the table. This publication serves as an outlet for the creative juices in senior school, be it through words or photographs.

The transition was not as smooth as we expected. Every now and then, a new hurdle appeared. After weeks of work, we finally finished. Welcome to the first issue of Winston Magazine, the student magazine of the British School Manila.

Brendon GoManaging Director.

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MIXTAPE

The XX [self titled]There are just some bands that can master creating music one can both sleep to and dance to̶the XX being one of them. Placing 9th on the Rolling Stone list, this English indie-pop band creates hushed, sultry melodies matched with snappy beats and guitar riffs. The album may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but those who dare take a listen will never be able to resist Oliver Sim’s vocals ever again.

BY RACHEL ABREU | YEAR 11

We all have moments when we skip over every song on our Ipods. Move over

mainstream; give these albums a spot on your playlist!

Funeral‒Arcade FireDon’t be fooled by the name. This album is brimming with a sense of fantasy and enjoyment and is the debut album and indie-rock love child of Montreal natives Win Butler and Regine Chassagne. Aside from bouncing bass lines and quirky tunes, this band makes a point to stay away from cliché topics and lackluster lyrics. The album is definitely a soulful, striking, in-depth work of art worthy of the title “phenomenal”.

Not Animal ‒Margot & The Nuclear So and So’sDescribed as “cinematic chamber pop” that “both the casual music fan and music perfectionist will enjoy”, Margot & The Nuclear So and So’s sound boasts of an indie-folk feel with a classic rock edge. The album Not Animal is one of the Indiana-born band’s quieter ones, with a clear focus on sleepy tunes and emotional lyrics definitely created to impress. Once you take a listen you’ll be wondering what you’ve been doing without them for so long.

For fans of:

Coldplay, Florence + The Machine

Press play:

Rebellion (lies), Wake Up, Une Année Sans

Lumiere

For fans of:

La Roux, The Broken Social Scene

Press play:

Crystallized, Heart Skipped A Beat, Hot Like

Fire

For fans of:

Angus & Julia Stone, Bon Iver

Press play:

Broad Ripple Is Burning, As Tall As Cliffs, The

Ocean (Is Bleeding Salt)

5

Still Night, Still LightWriter’s BlockLove You More EPColour It In

The Big Black And The BlueBlack Swan

Suego Faults‒Wolf GangHo n e s t l y , t h e s e c o n d M a x McElligott’s voice bursts through your headphones, don’t expect to sit still. The eclectic symphonic rock sound from this alternative British band is enough to get you dancing, or at least tapping your foot. The peculiar pitch of McElligott’s voice paired with the buzzing background “noise” the band makes creates an Alice In Wonderland-esque mood that may just be exactly what your ears are looking for.

The Fast Escape ‒Source VictoriaHailing from Phoenix Arizona, Source Victoria is so unknown there isn’t even a wiki page about them. For those lucky enough to come across them such as Jim Adkins of Jimmy Eat World, the crashing drums and raspy vocals are irresistible. Though incredibly underground, this band is one that needs people to hear them, and is too exceedingly diverse to be summed up in one genre. Put it this way, if Aerosmith and punk rock had a baby, this would probably be it.

Tourist History -Two Door Cinema ClubIf you don’t already know this band, it’s time you did. The epitome of intriguing, this Irish indie-rock band definitely has a sense of humour. With songs brimming with witty (sometimes nonsensical) lyrics such as “you would look a little better, don’t you know, if you just wore l e s s m a k e u p ” , a n d a n alternative-rock-on-parade feel, Two Door Cinema Club definitely makes for an enjoyable listen.

“It’s Music To My Ears”More Bands That Should Be Given A Shot

For fans of:

MIKA, Foster The People

Press play:

Lions In Cages, Something Unusual, Suego

Faults

For fans of:

Muse, The Fray

Press play:

Until We Crack, Opportunistic, The End

Is Just The End

For fans of:

Vampire Weekend, Cobra Starship

Press play:

Undercover Martyn, Do You Want It All,

Something Good Can Work

Au Revoir SimonePeter Bjorn & JohnThe PiercesThe MaccabeesFirst Aid KitAthlete

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Seaside Science“Science” is a word met with a great mix of emotions. Many cringe at the thought of it. Some would want to go their whole lives without it. Finally, there are the few who jump for joy at the idea of studying the natural word. During the last weeks of February, however, that small number grew to include the entire Year 12 cohort.

BY BRENDON GO | YEAR 12 PHOTOS BY: JANELLE SY AND ALYSSA ELASIN

On February 22, all 45 Year 12 students traveled south to Lago de Oro for their Science and Geography Trip. After the two-hour bus ride to the location, the students were greeted by the calm sea breeze and the salty scent of the sea. The area simply oozed of fun: the wakeboard lake was in sight, the waves were sounding, and the swings were… swinging. Instead of enjoying

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themselves, however, the students, tired from the rigorous whole-day project they just finished at BSM, choose to retire early to prepare for all the science ahead of them.

Work began r ight away. Af ter breakfast, the Biology Students quickly packed up their gear to trek to the mangroves that populated the area. There they gathered data for their internal assessments. Some measured the height of the trees. Others counted pneumatophores, which were basically the mangroves’ roots that shot upwards from the ground. The adventurous collected leaf and soil samples for further testing. The students studying Physics armed themselves with various measuring equipment and began calculating heights of buildings and studying the mechanics of wakeboarding. The verdict: wakeboards are much faster than some cars in Manila. These students also traveled to a river to test their self-made flow-rate meters. Not to be outdone, students studying Ecology and Chemistry prepared various instruments to test different water samples. They sampled water from the lake, the pool, the sea, and even the restaurant and calculated their oxygen content and total hardness.

In the afternoon, Biology and Ecology returned to the mangroves to catch hermit crabs. The small grey animals are not easy to catch. After the crabs were marked, they were released back into their natural habitat. The students returned the next day to catch more crabs. With the information they gathered, they were able to estimate the total number of crabs living among

the mangroves. The same students also learned about biodiversity and population.

The Year 12 science trip was a great experience. Being able to apply the concepts learned in the confines of a classroom was both enjoyable and eye opening. If the science was not enough, Lago de Oro was filled with other fantastic activities.

Almost all the students tried their hand at wakeboarding. The thrill of accelerating over the surface of the water and the sense of accomplishment when one manages to stay on board more than make up for the numerous falls and crashes. The pool was also a popular spot to unwind and relax after a day’s hard work. The most memorable thing, in my opinion, was the ice cream. The unique flavors and hot sun made these treats unlike anything I ever tasted before. Aside from fruity flavors like strawberry and mango, the store offered buko pandan, garlic, chili, and pesto ice cream for those with adventurous taste buds.

Sadly, on the fourth day, the trip had to come to an end. The bags were packed, the rooms were cleared, and the memories made were stored. Everyone took their last breath of fresh seaside air before they boarded the bus to return to the hustles and bustles of city life.

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Some Like It Hot!

Behind!e

Steam

© Jun Santos

© Jun Santos

10

Sugar CaneHayley Grafton

© Jun Santos

What did you love?

I loved how fun the play was and how it was such a great bonding experience. Meeting everyone was great and I made new friends.

Any pre-play rituals?

Definitely dancing to music and pumping everyone up for the big performance! I also enjoyed all the backstage moments we had.

Favourite quotes?

Jerry: “Will you look at that! Look how she moves! It’s like Jell-O on springs.”

Sugar: “But you’re *not* a girl! You’re a *guy*.”

Funniest moments / biggest mess-ups?

My favourite moment was probably when the girls and gangsters weren’t on the stage when they should’ve been. The improv was great. Another funny mess-up was when Carlos’ glasses and hat fell off. Although we had these mess-ups, they made the play even funnier!

If you could do it all again, what would you do differently?

Nothing! The play was one of the best things I have done in sometime and by far the most crazy and fun play I have done yet! I just want to thank Ms. Silver for all her help and wonderful director skills.

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Joe (Josephine)

Carlos Roberts

© Jun Santos

What did you love?

The play was great fun to do, the people and the energy going into the rehearsals was great to be around. It was brilliant having the opportunity to make others laugh and getting on stage to perform. Similarly to Jake, there wasn’t too much t i m e s p e n t b a c k s t a g e d u r i n g performances, but we always had some time to joke around with the backstage crew during rehearsals!

What was it like playing a girl?

Being a girl was a challenge. The transformations of turning into a girl and back into a guy did become a little confusing. I just had to remember what I was every scene and adjust the way I acted.

Any pre-play rituals?

Probably playing “Teach Me How To Dougie” backstage and dancing to the music with Jake before coming onstage, great way to liven us up!

Favourite quotes?

Josh (Bellboy): “Wowie, that’s the way I like ‘em, big and sassy!”

All of Shaun Parson’s lines, somehow just got me to laugh at all of them.

Best line has got to be “Nobody’s Perfect” (Osgood)

Funniest moments / biggest mess-ups?

For me, I found doing the boat scene was the funniest moment, especially on the last night when the glasses fell off into the sea. That along with the performance on Thursday night has to be the biggest mess-up. Lucky I improvised the scene so it kept funny! Apart from a few missed lines and a couple small things, I thought we pulled off some smooth performances.

If you could do it all again, what would you do differently?

Nothing at all. I enjoyed all the time I spent with everyone, along with all the mistakes and difficulties. It wouldn’t have been the same without them.

Jerry(Daphne)

Jake Batuhan

© Jun SantosWhat did you love?

The things I loved most about the play were the high energy we had, the excitement every night before the show and really just getting on the stage and making people laugh. I never really got to stay backstage during the play because I had to be onstage most of the time.

What was it like playing a girl?

Playing a girl was... interesting. I had to wear an assortment of different dresses while playing Daphne and it was an experience I’ll never forget. Confusing? A little bit. People kept telling me that I was still being Daphne off-stage so I had a problem there. Some say that problem still haunts me to this very day...

Any pre-play rituals?

Playing “Teach Me How To Dougie” before every show. That was awesome. And dancing behind the big black curtain just before we went on stage. That was pretty cool too.

Favourite quotes?

Daphne: “I’m not even that pretty!”Joe: “We’re a couple of magicians!”Daphne: “What kind of girl do you think I am, Mr. Fielding?!”

Funniest moments / biggest mess-ups?

The tango was probably the funniest moment for me. It was a huge crowd-pleaser and, of course, it was really fun! Biggest mess-ups? I think Carlos losing his glasses probably would have been pretty bad but he found a way to make it funny. So all in all, apart from a couple of missed lines or whatnot, we were pretty darn perfect.

If you could do it all again, what would you do differently?

Nothing! I loved every single moment of the play. It was perfect for me, I wouldn’t change a thing (except maybe for the tango dress, I’d make it less revealing...).

Osgood Fiel#ng III

Yuji Matsuda

© Jun Santos

Did you learn anything new? Any new challenges / experiences?

I learned how to act like a convincing weirdo. I learned how to tango, it made me happy. It was challenging to make it appear realistic in front of a live audience. It took a lot of practice, and getting used to the idea that he was really a woman, it helped that his costumes were so convincing. Over time, and with a lot of effort, we eventually built up the chemistry. At the end of weeks of practice, we perfected a saucy tango.

Funniest moments / biggest mess-ups?

The funniest moment was Josef’s face in the garage scene, but the reigning comedy kings are Jake and Carlos. My all time favourite was the garage scene, the dynamic between Marc (Spats), Jake (Jerry), and Carlos (Joe) was slapstick hilarious - the audience was in stitches.

Just because it was my first (and probably last) BSM production, just the thrill of being able to finally share my love of acting with the public instead of keeping it just in class. The fact that there were so many of us in that same position, I just felt that we all slowly came together and became one big family, CHEERING EACH OTHER ON (and all other cliched statements like that)!

Funniest Moment:

I really didn’t think anything could beat the tango scene. But Carlos’ prop drop then improvisation almost wanted to make me pee my pants.

I WOULD LOVE TO DO IT ALL AGAIN but I wouldn’t change a thing. Actually, if I could, I’d record all the performances throughout the week, edit them all down, then send the finished product to the TONY organization, and pray to get the whole production nominated for Best Play (if that’s how the nomination process worked).

Playing the villain was a role that comes naturally to me, I accepted it straight away, it would be a role I was comfortable in. I was happy to find out that the audience was intimidated and even frightened by my dominance. Apparently I really commanded the stage .

My greatest memory of the play was when we all started dancing and raving on stage for our pre-show rituals to Avicii’s Levels!

Nellie/Red Gang%erClaudia Cojuangco

SpatsColumbo

Marc Lee

© Jun Santos

© Jun Santos

I loved feeling a part of something and getting to know loads of new people who I never would have talked to otherwise. Also, I loved having a huge beard and getting to play an excitable latino gangster

Best Part for me was picking a name for myself - I had a new name every show so everyone knew me by a different name: Ernesto, Ronaldo, Big Al and Mike

Ernesto/Ronaldo/Big Al/Mike

Hollie Ireland

Gang%erAntonio Ortiz

I loved the fact that all cast members were very close to each other and were easily able to make friendships quite quickly and it kinda gave a family atmosphere to the whole cast and crew I also loved the play because i t was a very good shortened version of the original some like it hot and in my opinion was even funnier!

The Funniest Moment: Funniest moment for me was in the gangsters scene, especially Albert pointed his gun at my back and the whole front end broke off.

If I could do it again I would make sure to try my best to make the audience laugh even more

© Jun Santos

© Jun Santos16

I love how easy it is to be able to develop friendships with the cast and crew despite being in Year 12 and Year 10. This made no difference as the experience of working backstage was rewarding in itself as I learnt new skills and developed an even greater respect for the backstage crew as I realised their importance.

Having to do the costume changes for the sweaty boys wasn't exactly a treat.

The best rituals were definitely the pre-show dance parties backstage with the 'strobe lights' on our phones

Funniest moment was when Bienstock went on without his glasses and had to act like he was blind. Great improv!

I don't think I'd do anything differently, I loved everything about the play!

Executive Ass(tant & Co%ume/Makeup Handler

Sophia Perrett

The thing I loved most was how I made new friends. It wasn't as stressful as I thought it would be being backstage since everyone was so cooperative and nice.

The best part was when Ms. Silver asks us to lie down on the floor and close our eyes. I find it so relaxing!

Funniest moment: When Carlos' glasses broke and fell to the ground and he improvised his line which made it sound funnier! "We both wore glasses but hers didn't fall"

Sta) Mana)rAmira Benabdussalam

© Jun Santos

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© Jun Santos

© Jun Santos

At 7A.M on the dot, a bus filled with students leaves the British

School Manila campus and head to a classified destination.

It is much too early for students

to be up at this hour on a Saturday morning, considering it’s usually a rest day after a long

week of work. Taking on this weekend challenge was a group of 17 BSM students who gave up their two full days of the weekend

to voice opinions and raise concerns about global issues.

This year’s Model United Nations

Assembly (MUNA), a local MUN conference hosted annually by the ladies of the Rotary Club of

Makati Jose P. Rizal, was held in

The Worldin a

Weekend: MUNA 2012

BY JEEWON LEE | YEAR 11

20

PHOTO BY: JEEWON LEE

t h e l a v i s h l y r e -constructed, completely

transformed World Health O rgan i z a t i on on Ta f t A v e n u e , M a n i l a .

Delegations came from both international and local schools, such as BSM, ISM,

Brent, Faith Academy, and La Salle Greenhills to name a f e w . T h i s d i v e r s e gathering allowed students

to interact with a wider body of fellow MUN-ers and share opinions on

world issues.

As in any other MUN con fe rence , t he bes t

debates always arise upon d i s c u s s i n g t h e m o s t con t r ove r s i a l i s sues . Jennica Chiang (Y11) and

Alice Schonenberger (Y11) c o u r a g e o u s l y m a i n s u b m i t t e d r i v a l i n g

resolutions on the question of domestic immigrants in

developed countries. Kylie Tinga (Y12) charmed the Political Committee with her

emotive, unique speeches as the delegate of the DPRK (North Korea). Carlo Albert (Y11) made a controversial “out-of-order” speech on a resolution submitted regarding the promotion of the right of LEDCs to develop, convincing the entire floor during the plenary session to vote against the resolution. Sai Villafuerte

(Y11) passed two amendments in the plenary session with an overwhelming majority of people voting for her relevant, well-structured contributions. It was also the first time BSM chairs were given complete control during a debate in the

plenary session – Sabino Padilla (Y11) and I were lucky to have chaired a Human Rights resolution on the issue of the illegal trafficking of women and children. It produced a highly fruitful debate which had to be given extended time due to the

active participation of delegates.

The 14th Model United Nations Assembly in Manila was a definite success, signaling – as the penultimate conference of the year – the end of yet another worthwhile and productive year of MUN at the British School Manila.

PHOTO BY: SAI VILLAFUERTE

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ExclusiveInterviewWith: Ms. Taylor and Ruth Al ferez

©

Recently, a few of our teaching staff were invited to play extras on the set of the new Bourne film, starring Jeremy Renner

and Rachel Weisz. We decided to interview Ms Taylor, who had a minor extra role, and a professional actress who played a

‘reactionary’ role - and we noticed that they both had quite different opinions.

BY THOMAS MACDON

ALD | YEAR 12

Ms.TaylorE N G L I S H T E A C H E R

Out of everyone who tried out, why were you picked for the part?

There was no trying out; a message was sent from Mr. Barrett and he asked for Caucasian people to be ‘extras’ in the film. This means you are subsidiary to help with the background scenes - we are certainly not the stars of the show!

What part did you play?

I was a lady in a queue at the immigration, waiting to go through passport control; as were Ms.Malias, Ms. Thompson-Chaplin, Mr Doran, Ms.Buntine and Ms.Nelson.

How does it feel starring in a major movie with stars like Rachel Weisz and Jeremy Renner?

I’m not sure ‘starring’ is the correct word! It will be exciting when the film comes out to see if we can see ourselves, after all in the editing they might even cut the clip out and not use us.

What’s it like being on the set of a real movie?

2 words; boring and impersonal. In make up my friend told me that they walked past him, and asked ‘should we shave this one?’ We arrived at about 3pm but some parents who were also extras had been there since 10am. They did run-throughs with ‘stand ins’ before filming started, they had to practice walking up and down, returning to the start point for 4 hours, to the tune of ‘Quiet on set, ok rolling, action…..’And then ‘reset’ and repeat the entire process.

I’m sure it’s very different if you are a big Hollywood star and it is your career - I’m only giving you the perspective of an extra, not someone who is paid $10 million dollars for 3 months of work. If I was, I might have 2 different very different words.

Have you ever been featured on TV/Movie before, or is this your first time?

I have been on television in the UK before, on the news, in a documentary and in the press about being a teacher.

Have you ever taken any acting lessons?

No- but every day is a bit of a performance as a teacher, and I wouldn’t swap this job for an attempt at a career on the stage!

Do you have any acting experience?

I used to be part of a theatre group and participated in amateur dramatics- but that was when I was 12; I didn’t really use it to help with my character. I have used some method acting practices, standing in a line at an airport I think I am particularly good at now after getting through customs and immigration at NAIA.

Did you feel in-character, or were you just acting as yourself?

I was just being myself, I even wore the same dress that I wore to work that day.

Would you do it again?

No, I would not.

Did you take any “souvenirs?”

No - I even had to give the immigration piece of paper back.

Would you give up teaching if you were offered a main role?

No, I love my job as a teacher. I think being an actor or an actress is difficult - and for the few that make it, it must be amazing, but they are few and far between. Being a Hollywood star, a Broadway actor or starring in the West End for the few people who make it I am sure is wonderful; and the pay packet that comes with it. But I am a teacher and as negative as my comments sound, I am pleased that I had the experience, and I am pleased that I do the job I do.

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What part did you play?

I was one of the "reactors". In the scene that I did, there were 300 extras and Tony Gilroy (the director) wanted professional actors to do the reaction shots. I was part of the final casting but didn't get the part I was auditioning for. Still, Tony opted to get actors who made it to the final casting to do small but important roles.

How does it feel being on the set with major movie with stars like Rachel Weisz and Jeremy Renner?

It was overwhelming at the same time humbling. You see how big stars do their job professionally. No "star" complex. They do what they're told, tirelessly do the scene again and again, and wait patiently for the instructions. By the way, we did one scene for 24 hours! 2 hours to prepare (make up, hair and get in costume). That makes it 26 hours at work, with dinner break.

Could you share a personal experience of something that happened on the set?

I was amazed at how Tony treated us. I'm no big celebrity but he treated us as important. I, along with my 4 fellow "reactors", was ushered to meet Tony as he welcomed us on board. Although we were supposed to do a very small part, he still went out his way and explained to us what the scene about. I thought the final audition with him was overwhelming already, BUT, meeting him on the set was THE BEST! That was the closest I could get to Hollywood... for now!

Have you ever been featured on TV/Movie before, or is this your first time?

I have done several TV guestings and TV commercials locally. The latest TV Commercial I did was Marty's Cracklin'.

Have you ever taken any acting lessons?

YES. I still attend some acting and dancing lessons every now and then whenever my schedule permits.

Trumpets Playshop – SUMMERSTOCK: Jazz Dance, Acting, Vocal Technique, 2008

Trumpets Playshop – MASTER CLASS: Song Interpretation, 2007

PhilStage-RADA-British Council Acting Workshop – Teacher: Dee Cannon, 2004

Zen Buddhism for Actors – Teacher: Gil Alon, 2003

How would you describe your acting experience?

In the film? Well, the role isn't at all hard. Not much preparation needed. I just acted with the given situation. You just need to focus and always be ready with the instructions given to you.

Did you feel different in-character, or were you just acting yourself ?

Not really. The costume helped me feel in-character and re-act accordingly.

Would you do it again?

YES! Oh YES!

Did you take any "souvenirs"?

We were strictly (VERY strictly) instructed not to bring any camera or cellphone with camera on the set so I wasn't able to take pictures....but I took loads of mental snapshots! Absorbed everything I saw there (their equipments, how they work….things I could learn from). And they will forever remain in my memory!!!!

What other acting experience have you had?

I am a freelance Theater actress and acting teacher by profession. I have worked with most, if not all, of the country's biggest Theater companies namely: Repertory Philippines, CCP-Tanghalang Pilipino, Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA), Gantimpala Theatre Foundation, Trumpets, MUSICAT among others. I also do dubbing for radio ads, hostings for corporate events and parties. If I'm not acting, I teach acting workshops or attend classes as a student.

RuthAlferezP R O F E S S I O N A L A C T R E S S

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If there’s something we’ve learnt this term, it’s that BSM sure likes it hot. A mix of a hilarious cast, a classic comedy, a spectacular set and an amazing director, amounted to a spicy, hysterical two-hour show that could not be missed – Some Like it Hot!

The week of January 30-February 2 2012 was hectic for the Year 10’s and 12’s, but the four shows they put on were surely all worth it. The play starred Carlos Roberts and Jake Batuhan, both Year 12 students, as two musicians who happened to be in the wrong place, at the wrong time. Posing as two – may I add, very pretty – girls, the two found themselves running for their lives by touring with a girl band who featured the glamorous Hayley Grafton as Sugar (a part that Marilyn Monroe had originally graced). Backed by a chorus of gangsters, receptionists, band girls and some very awkward circumstances, the play had the audience dying of laughter.

I was fortunate to grab a ticket for the opening night and boy, was it worth it! Apart from the delight of watching my friends, who normally have deep voices and short hair, transform into girls, the cohesiveness of the entire cast and crew is what really impressed me. I know I should expect nothing less from a BSM play, but the thought that they had only begun the majority of rehearsals in January is amazing! Aileen Chong (Year 10) calls them “a great big, happy family”, and that being a part of it was “a truly great experience”.

Thomas Pickering (Year 13) was so impressed he watched every production saying that it was “uproariously funny, and kept getting funnier each night”. Nancy Zhuang (Year 13) said that though she’s not usually “a fan of slapstick comedy, this was an exception.” Perhaps what added to the hilarity of the play was the amazing improvisation. Missing girls, missing glasses… broken glasses? No sort of mishap was enough to throw off the cast! One of the most memorable moments must have been Carlos’ 5-minute impromptu monologue on the final night which – from what I heard – had the audience, as well as the cast, in an uproar of laughter. This type of acting was so top-notch that a “nomination for a TONY” is what Claudia Cojuangco (Year 12) believes this play deserves.

The raving reviews from the audience were all due to the energy radiated from the cast. Nicolas Bocanegra (Year 12) said that “dancing with the whole crew before each performance” was what made Some Like It Hot so fun to be a part of. Patricia Tan (Year 12) who was a member of the stage management crew said that although “it was very hard work, every second spent was worth it!”

From Spectacular, Spectacular! to Some Like it Hot, Ms. Silver has proven to be one sensational director! Sophia Perret (Year 10) calls it a “show [that] will never be forgotten!” and I completely agree. I look forward to the next BSM play – Mr. Mulligan’s Lord of the Flies – as well as seeing what Ms. Silver has in store for us next year! No doubt it’ll be just as “hot”!

Some Like It Hot?i sure do!

BY V ICTOR IA KONGOASA | YEAR 12

25

French KissParis is one of the world’s cultural centers, forever e v o l v i n g i n t o a f a s h i o n pilgrimage and a Mecca for art. It is no accident that Paris h a s a t t r a c t e d t h e m o s t prominent artists and thinkers from all over the world. Millions of young people flock to the heart of Paris every year to sink themselves in the melting pot of couture at Tuileries, to lose themselves in art history at the Musée du L o u v r e o r t o v i e w t h e breathtaking panorama of the Champs-Élysées, the hottest tourist spot of Paris, from the A r c d e T r i o m p h e . I t s u n p a r a l l e l e d b e a u t y , t h e immense depth of culture and historical resource, and, above all, its respect for artistic endeavor and achievement, have provided an ideal home and inspiration for creative minds of every background. A summer

BY SAI VILLAFUERTE | YEAR 11 PHOTOS BY: SAI VILLAFUERTE

J E T S E T T E R S :

26

in Paris for a young traveler guarantees unique inspiration to attain the highest levels of imagination and accomplishment to uphold the rich legacy the city has to offer. The amount of thrill-seekers that spend their summer every year to be submerged into the French manifestation is tremendous, and every traveling thrill-seeker has a little tourist-y checklist, or a small mental note about what there is to see in the brilliant city. We all know about the famous Eiffel Tower, or the home of the Mona Lisa, The Louvre Museum and the heroic landmark that is the Arc de Triomphe, but we’ll leave the historical summary about those iconic monuments to the tourist catalogues and travel guides. This is a small must-have checklist for the young, fresh tourist of today that’s ready to see new things t h a t ’ l l m e e t t h e e y e , a n opportunity to sink their teeth i n t o s o m e t h i n g v i b r a n t , contemporary and unique.

Colette is a 3-floor cult store with all things trendy, remarkable and hard to find. It’s a must-see destination for young, classy people, but even sophisticated, stylish adults wander around as they mesmerize, through the glass windows, at the racks of clothing from designer labels and select street brands that are so diverse. From Yves Saint Laurent to Marc Jacobs. Valentino and Jean-Paul Gautier, you name it. Since 1997, Colette has provided a collection of assorted novelty items, the most high-tech gadgets and the most hip accessories to satisfy the ever

changing taste of the constant crowd, eager to buy what is known to be the coolest items ever from, what is probably, the coolest shop in Paris. Whatever it may be, Colette ensures that the item you purchase represents the current trends and the emporium of apparel and media. Colette has also opened a water bar, where they provide lunch and snacks. A bit pricey, but nevertheless, pleasuring to the stomach.

213 Rue Saint-Honoré75001 Paris

FRESH SWAG:COLETTE

FRESH NIGHTLIFE:

L’ARC PARIS

L’Arc is a chic club/restaurant/ bar located in the very bosom of the Champs-Elysées that is Place Charles de Gaulle, walking distance from the Arc de Triomphe. L’Arc is the ideal destination for young socialites to enjoy a night out in an upscale environment. The club is d e s c r i b e d t o b e contemporary, yet vintage. T h e e c l e c t i c m i x o f tuneful classics pumping from the quality speakers will keep the dance floor on fire, and put all customers in a festive mood, preparing them for a night to remember. The neon lights bring out a f e s t i v e t h e m e a s i t

reflects the endless wall of mirrors. Behind the DJ booth is a veranda covered with a glass dome and a view of a green oasis that is the Summer Garden, where you can get comfortable and have a sip of your favourite cocktail. The bar is made to be cozy and provides world-class champagne, classic cocktails and diverse brands of whisky, vodka, gin, r h u m a n d m a n y m o r e . T h e restaurant, with a dozen earth lights being suspended from the trompe l’oeil, is decorated with such precision, made to please the eye with its admirable woodwork inlaid with metal. The restaurant provides a superlative range of gourmet food for an excellent fine dining experience.

12 Rue de Presbourg75016 Paris

28

FRESH ART:

CENTRE G. POMPIDOUThe Centre G. Pompidou is a cultural institution that revolves around modern and contemporary masterpieces in all forms, where visual arts meet with theatre, music, cinema and literature. A young artist of today would love to grasp the centre’s devotion to modern day creative activity. The Pompidou holds over thirty exhibits, plus international events, annually. Such as the exhibit of Lucian Freud, an architectural eye- candy called Dreamlands, an exhibit about avant-garde architectonics in places such as Dubai, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and New York displayed in form of collage, tele- vision, photography and models, and the famous Musée National d’Art Moderne, the largest museum for modern art in Europe

with works by Dalí, Andy Warhol, Picasso and Matisse displayed. The Pompidou also provides centre for music and acoustic research called the IRCAM (for the music enthusiasts out there), and a vast public library with facilities for over 2,000 readers. The Pompidou’s exterior and interior elements definitely are a visual feast to the youth of today because of its high-tech architecture and the interesting symmetry, giving it a very industrial theme. If you have a vocation as an artist, the Pompidou can provide you with immense knowledge of modern masterwork in the past century, all in the centre with a total of over 190 million visitors in it’s 30 years of existence.

29

The scenery is endless in Paris. It is believed that, in Paris, whether you are a first-time or annual visitor, or even a permanent resident, if you think that you’ve seen all that Paris has to offer, you actually haven’t. Manila’s very own hyphenate, Vicky Herrera, says, “What’s there to see in Paris? Hah, everything! Even cafés and shops are so diverse and it really depends on what appeals your eye. If you find something hot, you stick to it. And Paris can provide you with everything anyone can ever imagine, any person from any background.” A summer in Paris guarantees a backpack of incomparable memories to take home and an experience unlike any other. Paris isn’t just any other tourist spot or a city you must see at least once in your life. Many foreigners easily call Paris a home. It’s something about the atmosphere, and the overwhelming splendour the brilliant metropolis that makes your heart melt with nostalgia and bliss.

30

Why is it that as we grow older, we no longer seem to pay as much attention to the simple but beautiful things in life as we did when we were children?   The seemingly little   things that made us squeal with delight when we were little no longer seem to give us that same spark as it did before.   As the years pass and we become more exposed t o t h e wo r l d , o u r perspectives change and does our sense meaning and happiness.  What is it that we people seem to lose as we grow older?

Floating back to memories I had of my childhood, I remember being extremely fascinated with nature and was particularly was in love with the sky.  I would look up on a beautiful day and watch in silent wonder as the sky light blue would gradually change into golden orange when the sun sets, then into hues of pink, until finally to a deep dark blue.  The moon would show up like a huge mentos in the sky, casting its dreamy light on my face as I played connect-the -dots with constellations.   Simply looking up at that illuminated vast big sky filled with its billions of stars filled me with a profound sense of wonder.

Years passed and here I am now wondering what is it in the way children see the world that fills them wonder?   It's amazing how children can see the beauty and

In !e Eyes of a

ChildBY J I R E H C A LO | Y E A R 1 2

significance in the simplest things in life, like the blossoming of a flower, a tiny bug, or a butterfly coming out of its cocoon.  Because they are seeing and experiencing the world for the first time, everything seems to be exciting and beautiful and a child can easily find c o n t e n t m e n t a n d h a p p i n e s s .  Contentment and happiness-- how many people today search for those very things? Many people try to find significance and meaning in success, in wealth, and in fame and fail miserably.  It's sad that as our perspectives change, our definitions of happiness become more complicated and it is only when we're finally broken and filled with emptiness that we realize there is nothing at the 'top' and that the things that actually mattered were the things we took for granted.

I write my sentiments about these things because I know, from personal experience, that it doesn't have to be complicated or hard to find significance and meaning and to be to know true and profound happiness.  If we learn to go back to the principles of our childhood and relearn to see the world in child-like wonder and appreciate the simple things around us; if you and I could look at the world through the eyes of a child, imagine the beauty that we would see.

31

FROM BARONGS TO BURBERRY

Old Manila Fashion

A glimpse intofashion in ManilaBY RIANE PUNO

As was declared once upon a time by the legendary Alexander McQueen, "It’s a new era in fashion - there are no rules. It’s all about the individual and personal style, wearing high-end, low-end, classic labels, and up-and-coming designers all together." From the reta i l complexes - home to couture and crop tops - to the marble floors that have paved the way for budding fashionistas, Manila has embraced this mantra and has evolved into a mecca of style.

Though the looks of it may be deceiving, it hasn't been a swift transformation - much has affected the people of Manila to

al low fashion to reach its l i b e r a t e d s t a t e . P r i o r t o colonisation, the Philippines' i d e n t i t y w a s y e t t o b e discovered. It stood among its surrounding countries with a lack of direction but, under Spanish rule, their pre-existing simple yet functional attire took a fashion step forward. What was previously a collarless shirt, known as the "canga", and a wrap - used as bottoms that went by the name "bahag" - became a well known staple in Philippine trends, redesigned to display embroidered patterns, l a c e s , t r i m m i n g s a n d adornments, thus resulting in what is commonly recognised as the Barong Tagalog, also

leading to its female equivalent, the Baro't Saya.

32

Fashion Week. This event exhibits the work of local up a n d c o m i n g d e s i g n e r s , normally involving the likes of Rajo Laurel, Renee Salud and John Herrera. Beyond that, everyday style has seen an extreme transformation. Gone are the days where wearing flamboyant 4 inch platforms to malls or shopping centers was not the norm and shop catalog looks s tayed w i th in the brochures, as opposed to the way in which people now foster the styles and showcase them within malls or our own B o n i f a c i o H i g h S t r e e t . Renowned brands , f rom To p s h o p t o t h e m o r e sophisticated Tory Burch, have also grown in popularity and o t h e r c o u n t r i e s h a v e u n d o u b t e d l y s e e n t h e Philippines as a country with a fashionable demographic, as labels like Forever 21 and Uniqlo either already have or will be setting up shops here in Manila. Consequently, with more options comes a greater need for innovation and the willingness to take risks - what better place to break the rules than in the world of fashion?

I n a d d i t i o n t o S p a n i s h influence, the Philippines has greatly immersed itself in American Culture, having a tendency to adapt all things western, from TV shows - hence the likes of Philippine I d o l , P r o j e c t R u n w a y Philippines and a failed attempt at Gossip Girl, entitled Lipgloss - to the focal point of this a r t i c l e : f a s h i o n . T h e in t roduct ion of US sty le brought forward significant and drastic changes to the way in which Fi l ipinos presented themselves. They began to follow vogues set by these foreigners, not only limited to Americans but Europeans and the Japanese, in particular, as well. The US brought a line of clothing into our midst, which consisted of brightly coloured polo shirts, bleached jeans and tank tops, among others. This also applies to other Asian countries as their contribution to fashion allowed Filipinos to practice their creativity and innovation, especially with the thin and vibrant material used in Asian fabrics, which could pass for Bohemian chic. With all these external influences, es tab l i sh ing a sense o f individuality became easier as they were able to incorporate appealing aspects of overseas fashion into their own.

Now, the Philippines has seen a turn in the right direction, made evident through their initiation of Philippine Fashion Week in 1997, a mimicry of the holy grails of fashion weeks, which inc lude New York F a s h i o n W e e k , L o n d o n Fashion Week and Par is

River Island shorts

Zara top

Longchamp tote

Brogue shoes

Vintage lace top

Pop Culture maxi skirt

Aldo platform wedges

"It’s a new era in fashion -

there are no rules. It’s all

about the individual and

personal style, wearing high-

end, low-end, classic labels, and up-and-coming designers all together."

- Alexander McQueen

33

WhitneyH*%on

ChangedThe World

How

BY KATKAT CHUA | YEAR 12

Photo Credit: mtv.co.uk

February 11, 2012 was the eve of the Grammy’s and the whole music industry was in a buzz. Artists from different genres from all across the United States, flew to Los Angeles, filled with excitement, hope and eagerness. This, after all, was music’s biggest night of the year, a night to celebrate the best artists of the current generation and a night to pay tribute to the legends. But one unfortunate tragedy ended all the hype and caused the music industry shock, sorrow and sadness- the death of the iconic and the legendary, Whitney Houston.

The news of her death spread like wildfire. It was everywhere –in the newspapers, TV, web, even on social networking sites like Facebook. But who is Whitney Houston? Do people really know how rare a unique blessing she was to the music industry?

Some people simply know her as the woman who sang the hit songs, “I Will Always Love You” and “I Have Nothing.” But in reality, Whitney Houston played a vital role in the creation of today’s music. Most artists have elements of Whitney in their songs and performances. Without her, we wouldn’t have Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, Beyonce, and Kelly Clarkson nor those “mad” vocals we hear in American Idol.

Whitney Houston was born on August 9, 1963. Her mother, Cissy Houston, was a gospel singer, and therefore spent most of her childhood singing along with her. Dionne Warwick was her cousin and the great Aretha Franklin and Darlene Love were her godmothers and therefore had talent running through her veins. Whitney’s first record was a fun disco number called, “Life’s a Party” from an album produced by Michael Zager. Soon after, she starred in numerous projects by funk and disco producers.

In 1983, Whitney signed with Clive Davis from Arista Records, who had previously produced Michael Jackson’s album. When Clive signed her, he knew she had a voice that was in par with greats, stating that “She combined the beauty of Lana Horne and the fire-y gospel of Aretha Franklin.” Thus, he took the time to groom her to success –calling the best producers and waiting until the right material was made. He was looking for something similar to the pop classics that

would allow her voice to resonate. Finally, in 1985, Whitney released her first album with the song “You Give Love” as the lead single. This was the first step to her rise to fame.

Since during the 70’s and 80’s, music was racially segregated. Popular music shows like MTV rarely featured black artists, unless it was an extremely popular hit. However, Whitney’s song, “You Give Good Love” topped the R&B and Pop charts at Number 1, which gave her the opportunity to sing in The Tonight Show starring Johnny Carson. This show was targeted towards the white audience and the news of her appearance led people to question as to who this black woman was. However, all doubts and criticism were silenced once they heard her sing. Clive Davis was one step closer to fulfilling his wish of tearing down the walls of radio segmentation through Whitney’s powerful voice and her perfect melody. Her beautiful performance opened the doors for big voiced , neglected African American artists of the “cross-over” genre in the 80’s.

“Whitney Houston

played a vital role in the creation of today’s music.”

35

From the start, Clive Davis wanted to mould Whitney as a crossover artist (a hybrid of pop and R&B, with gospel elements) that would appeal to both black and white audiences, as an artist that would erase the line between the blacks and whites. Her next two singles, “Thinking About You”, and “How Will I Know” both topped the charts. Furthermore, the release of her 4th single, cemented her escalating rise to stardom. Her hit song, “The Greatest Love of All” is now played in most graduations and celebrations. Her sparkling diction, passionate delivery of the song’s chorus, and her spine-tingling sustained closing note made Whitney Houston a household name.

The second album entitled, “Whitney” featured the pop-dance number, “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” also performed well on the charts. But on her path to attract white audiences, the black community felt that Whitney neglected her roots and even accused her of acting white. Thus, to stay faithful to both audiences, Whitney worked with L.A. Reid and Babyface, black record executives, for her third studio album. During this time, people interpreted black music as hard,

edgy, filled with beats and drums. But these two people decided to alter this and present black music as smooth-edged, seductive, and light-drumming. In this way, the R&B music contained elements of pop that would appeal to white audiences.

Finally, in 1992, at the peak of her career, Whitney Houston starred in the film, “The Bodyguard” along with Kevin Costner. The movie sold $400,000,000 and created a soundtrack that would forever immortalise her name. Her emotional and heart-wrenching rendition of the soul ballad “I Will Always Love You” surpassed “The Greatest Love of All” and became the longest running single in a soundtrack album. It stayed #1 for 14 weeks at the U.S. Billboard Top 100. The movie also produced long running hits such as “I Have Nothing,” “Run to You” and “I’m Every Woman.” From here onwards, Whitney Houston became the legacy we’ve come to know today.

Whitney broke colour and racial lines in pop culture worldwide. Her soulful delivery of powerful ballads changed the presumptions of ballads to something marketable and acceptable. It was the clarity of her voice and the precision of her pitch that made her an unforgettable figure in the music industry.

The Pet RockWho would have thought that a mere rock marketed as a pet could become something that would generate public demand and make millions for Gary Dahl in just six months?

In 1975, Gary Dahl was an advertising executive from California when he came up with the ingenious idea to purchase common gray pebbles from a construction supplier and sell them as pets. He generated this idea from observing the noise, mess and money (food, medical and pet insurance costs) that real pets such as dogs, cats and fish require. The first rock was sold for $3.95 and it was a hit. After six months, over five millions rocks were sold. Dahl estimated its production costs such as packaging and the accompanying manual to be worth under 30 cents per rock in bulk. Assuming incidentals and delivery costs to be another 65 cents a rock, Dahl earned a profit of 3 dollars per rock and in total over 15 million dollars in 1975 which would be estimated at $56,166,419.02 today.

How did he start? Well, in the beginning, Dahl created the company, Rock Bottom Productions in which he imported rocks from Rosarito Beach in Baja, California, Mexico. Packaging for the rock included a “Pet Training Manual” and a cardboard box designed similar to a pet carrier. The manual included instructions on how to train a pet rock by placing it on a piece of newspaper and other commands such as sit,

The Weirdest Invention That Made Millions:

stay, roll over, play dead and come. Part of Dahl’s marketing strategy was to state how pet rocks give us more pleasure than initially conceived. He said that the pet resides in the mind and lives through the power of the owner’s imaginations. Through this exercise of the mind, pleasure is found. This use of recreation time can be beneficial to the health of minds compared to even some of the most advanced psychological treatments. People who purchased these unusual pets often gave them names, talked to them, petted them and attempted to teach them to perform tricks.

Until today, the pet rock continues to live on, particularly on the Internet. There are memorial pages and spin-offs. One can still purchase a pet online with the manufacturers featuring new looks, with some rocks painted for more personality. They can be a joke, a gift and so on. Lesley O’Doberty currently has the world’s largest pet rock collection. She began to collect them at the age of 6 when she received her first pet rock as her birthday present. She keeps her collection of rocks in a safe because she believes the pet rock business is going to boom soon and she has several ‘special editions’ she hopes will be of value. This goes to show that as Dahl said, all that is needed to create a multi-million dollar opportunity is a good idea, a thorough plan, hard work and good marketing.

BY MAXINE YAO | YEAR 10

37

The BSM Red Cross Youth Council

Service Spotlight:

The Philippine Red Cross is a humanitarian organisation which aims to “provide quality life-saving services that protect the life and dignity especially of indigent Filipinos in vulnerable situations”. They offer 6 major services: social services, safety services, disaster management services, blood services, community health and nursing services, and the Red Cross Youth. The BSM Red Cross Youth Council extends the Red Cross Youth to BSM students who want to help make a difference.

The Council was founded by Jeewon Lee and Riane Puno of Year 11. “We wanted to find a community

service organisation which we could really actively take part in and in various ways – like educating others, working outside of school”, says Riane. “Our established aim is to contribute to the Philippines’ battle against poverty”. The BSM Red Cross Youth Council allows regular students like us to play a part in combating poverty in the country through the Philippine Red Cross. “The Red Cross Youth Council at BSM would be an excellent opportunity for students to collaborate as a group and help out in our society.” says Jeewon Lee.

What is the Council focusing on?

The BSM Red Cross Youth Council’s activities focus mainly on International, Social, Safety, and Disaster Management and Awareness. This means that our projects and fundraisers will focus on these key aspects. The Council focuses on a different aspect every term.

What is being part of the Council like?

The Council meets every Monday of Week A. The Council plans and prepares for future projects and events during these meetings. We then break up into our separate committees to focus on specialised tasks of our committee.

The Council is split up into different committees: Council Development, Training, Special Projects, Peer Education, and Awards. Each committee focuses on specific tasks which are needed to complete projects for every focus. Council Development focuses on developing action plans for fund raisers and other events. Training focuses on training other students based on what representatives from out of school have taught us. For example, a common training topic would be ‘how to survive an earthquake’. Special Projects focuses on finding projects to do outside of school in an attempt to raise funds for the Red Cross. This involves engaging with children under the care of the Philippine Red Cross, painting new houses, and other meaningful activities. Peer Education focuses on educating peers that are not involved in the Red Cross about the Red Cross. This involves organising lesson sessions to inform children about the Red Cross and how they can help. Awards plays a key role in keeping Council members motivated as they focus on awarding deserving members with special merits.

Being part of the Council also allows one to become an official member of the Philippine Red Cross. For a small amount, one gets a multitude of benefits, depending on which membership one chooses to sign up for. More information on membership can be found on the Philippine Red Cross official website: www.redcross.org.ph/membershiptypes

As a member of the Council, one is also capable of joining the ‘Leadership Development Programme’ of the Red Cross. This is a training course specifically made for the Red Cross Youth to “further increase leadership ideals”. It involves a two-day group training course alongside fellow Council members. The course provides exciting activities and serves as a bonding experience for Council members.

What can we expect from the BSM Red Cross Youth Council?

The focus for the council this term is ‘Disaster Management and Awareness’. In line with this, the members of the BSM Red Cross Youth Council have been planning a fundraiser to help those victimised by typhoon Sendong in Mindanao. More details about this shall be announced once finalised. We would sincerely appreciate your support and participation in our upcoming projects and fundraisers!

38

The Top 5:

Foods For Y*r Bucketl(t

BY MATTHEW QUE | YEAR 11

Everybody has regrets before they die; people have regrets about missing opportunities, never taking chances, and other miscellaneous things. What people probably won’t verbalise is their missed opportunities when it comes to eating food. With that being said, I have managed to compile a short list of the top five foods a person must eat before they die.

Warning! Some of the following foods may in fact expedite your own date of expiration

5. Geoduck (image on article

title page): No, geoduck is not

actually a duck. Contrary to its

name, geoduck is in fact a

species of large saltwater clam

which can to about 6 feet and 5

inches. Geoduck is commonly

served as a sashimi in Japan or

as stew in Korea. But you

shouldn’t fret about never

getting the chance to eat

geoduck as it is very common

throughout all countries.

4. Frogs Legs: When people

think of frogs they immediately

think of either Kermit or a squat,

brown animal which hops

around fields spreading warts.

People do not often look at a

frog and decide to fry it. A

perfect example of an exotic

French food; frogs legs are, to

put it simply, fried frogs legs.

Whilst revolting to some, frogs

legs are actually a dish not at all

dissimilar to fried chicken. It is

in fact, quite difficult to discern

the tastes between the two. Just

be careful when eating frogs

legs with young children: dinner

is infinitely more appetizing

without being accused of

cooking Kermit the frog.

3. Balut: A common delicacy in

the Philippines; balut is a

fertilized duck embryo boiled

alive and eaten via an opening

on the shell. The mere mention

of this dish’s primary ingredient

is enough to incite a roaring

nausea within the stomachs of

the uninitiated. The masses of

people who enjoy balut would

beg to differ of course; they

would describe the wondrous

broth of the egg and soft meat

of the chick. When eating balut

take spec ia l ca re no t to

accidentally eat bits of the shell.

Yes, they do get into the egg.

2. Deep Fried Grasshoppers: It

takes a great deal of bravery for

a person to bungee jump from a

thousand feet. It probably takes

the same amount courage to eat

s e v e r a l m o u t h f u l s o f

grasshoppers, deep-fried or

not. Fr ied grasshopper is

commonly found in Thailand

and is a staple amongst those

living there. Grasshoppers

purportedly taste like either fish

or chicken, which is a rather

surreal statement considering

the vast anatomical difference

between them.

1. The Meatball Death star: A

dish contrived by the group

known as Epic Meal Time; the

Meatba l l Death s tar i s a

gargantuan combination of

bacon, and veal, and butter,

and beef. This dish will definitely

appeal to those with a voracious

appetite for any manner of

meat. The meatball death star

g o e s f a r b e y o n d o u r

preconceived notions of what

food is. This “meatball” has a

total calorie count of 14,262 and

a weight roughly equal to that of

a grown man’s head. There is

little doubt as to how this meal

gained its moniker.

40

Lit Corner

As the

silvery serpentine foil

of a mystery package

uncoils,

the

tic tac troupe

of artisans

appear,

encased happily

in

a

deceptively

cool coral chrysalis.

Fingers forcefully flip

the  

orange lid open;

Tic tac

stare

back,

eyeless,

with no

fear, fiery fury,

for I have interrupted

a citrus celebration.

Tilting the battleship,

the impeccably white soldiers,

are

ready to die, armed

with nothing

but

the

T r e e  R i n g sby

Roberta LarkYear 7

 Soft seedlings sprouting

Calm winds whisper high aboveTriumphant buds rise

 Tender saplings stretch

Inspiring winds sing in tuneFragile shoots blooming

 Brave branches battle

Fierce winds seek icy revengeFrail twigs tear apart

 Lonely trunk surveys

Old winds scurry far awayWounded leaves chocking

 Fallen trees rotting

Silent winds pray in sorrowFirewood warms the day

shimmery, snowy shield

of their skin,

rush to the pale pillow:

the

execution grounds

of

an earthly, unworthy hand;

Beads of confit

caress me

fleetingly; feathery flicks

of their artful brushes

grace

ungrateful human bark.

One swift movement

thrusts

the midget mercenaries

into an unforgiving

chamber.

But the holocaust

is

surprisingly sweet, sour;

The

palate

of an increasingly greedy tongue

is

charmed, seduced

by

paint

from

the

palette

of

a

perfect

confection;

cheap candy

echoes

the mellifluous melody

only the finest hokum

composes.

The remaining guerilla

await

Armageddon,

but my breath is refreshed.

I do not need another;

And so the virtuosos

are sealed

again,

awaiting,

the day they play for me

a delicious medley,

forever waiting

in

the obscure black

of an orange case.

Ode to Orange-Flavoured Tic Tac

By Christina Pappas | Year 12

Photos By:

Mansi Praka+YEAR 13