BRITISH composer, sound designer and writer Sarah Sayeed has shown off her immense musical talent across diverse live theatrical projects that includes for the Royal Shakespeare Company.
She has also performed at leading live venues and delivered immersive work that is imaginative, along with breaking new ground, including her latest work, which premieres at the Leeds Opera Festival on August 27. She has teamed up with awardwinning spoken word artist Jaspreet Kaur for a new piece of music which reimagines Holst’s epic opera of the Sanskrit tale, Savitri for 21st century audiences. This is the latest step in a creative journey for a multi-talented musician whose impressive range includes classical, contemporary jazz and urban.
Eastern Eye caught up with Sarah Sayeed to discuss her musical journey, latest work, creativity and inspirations.
What first connected you to music?
I was a dancing flower girl aged 11 in Samson and Delilah with Jose Carerras at The Royal Opera House. Jose was singing on stage, as I danced with a basket of flowers. I had no idea what he was singing, but felt an immediate and powerful connection to music and art. I looked around me on the huge stage and understood somewhere inside me that my journey would always involve music. Of course, I never knew I would go on to do the wonderful things I have done, but it isn't exactly a surprise either.
You are versatile, but which genre are you most closely connected to?
Soul music! Growing up in Ladbroke Grove it came out of record shops and people's homes and is the music I always return to.
Which of your works as a composer are closest to your heart?
A piece called Found for the Portfolio Composers commission with Sound and Music. It was a piece I wrote on the rollercoaster ride of expecting a child, and the ups and downs of motherhood. I wanted to capture that with the instruments, marimba, harp and tabla, played by the wonderful Kuljit Bhamra, who also was part of the commissioning panel. I had never composed with these instruments and was really blown away by what they could do together.
How do you approach any new project as a composer?
I let things unfold nowadays. I used to be very structured in the way I wrote and created, but as I matured as an artist, I think I spend time listening and connecting with others as a starting point. Any new project is rarely a solo undertaking, and I love to collaborate, so listening to others and musical ideas is always a good place to begin. That way I can start to imagine.
Tell us about your new project Savitri?
Savitri is a new work which is in response to Holst’s Savitri, commissioned by Northern Opera Group. Jaspreet and I were selected to work together on this as a way to create another musical and lyrical viewpoint on the story of Savitri and the original work.
What was the biggest challenge of putting this project together?
You want to be in a room together with the really talented musicians. This hasn't been as easily possible, which has been frustrating at times for me. But we have found ways around it.
Who are you hoping connects with it?
Those who are willing to listen and be open to a new perspective and to new musical ideas. This is a contemporary piece which Jaspreet and I hope will connect with some of the ideas in the chamber opera Savitri by Holst. The story is essentially taken from a Sanskrit epic and like many of Holst’s contemporaries, he was fascinated by concepts of maya/ illusion. We wanted to write a new work that encapsulated some of that concept of illusion but also the illusion and myth of Indian women.
What was it like working with Jaspreet Kaur?
Jaspreet is wonderful and a breath of fresh air. She has a very calming and reassuring energy and we really connected together on things. We were particularly interested in retelling the story of Savitri from a new lens, so that her character, legend, and myth was not merely left to be spoken for by male voices. I've loved working with Jaspreet and conversing on female identity, being a south Asian woman and the continued need for us to be seen and heard in the full spectrum of possibility and existence. (Laughs) You know, fairly light-hearted stuff!
How does this compare to other projects you have done?
This project has been a joy and come at a wonderful time. I have also been lucky to work with some incredible musicians, Clive Hunte, Freny Nina and Olivia Moore, all people I hugely respect and who make an important contribution to what is being created.
How do you feel about your work Savitri having its world premiere at the 2021 Leeds Opera Festival?
I am really excited to see this work being performed at Leeds Opera Festival.
Has the lockdown affected you creatively?
Working remotely has continued to be a challenge as Covid rampages through our lives. But there has also been a chance to condense ideas in different ways.
What can we expect next from you?
I am sound designing for a new theatrical version of Love N Stuff by Tanika Gupta, directed by Gitika Buttoo premiering at The Oldham Coliseum in the autumn. I also have a couple of other projects being discussed in the pipeline for 2022 and 2023.
If you could master something new in music, what would it be?
Learning a percussive instrument to a better level of proficiency.
What are the sources of inspiration for your immersive music?
As well as my wonderful classical guru Swati Natekar, it is usually very small observations and influences that help with creativity. It could be something profound my five-year-old says at breakfast that helps me see the world in a new way, or the smell of flowers in the garden which gives me a sudden burst of creative energy. It comes from spontaneous places!
Sarah Sayeed and Jaspreet Kaur’s new response to Savitri will premiere on Friday, August 27, at Leeds Opera Festival.
Wireless Festival 2025 runs from 11–13 July in Finsbury Park, London
Drake to headline all three nights of the sold-out event
New acts include ODUMODUBLVCK, SahBabii, Darkoo and Uncle Waffles
Up to 150,000 attendees expected across the weekend
Final line-up revealed ahead of 20th anniversary festival
Further acts have been confirmed for the 2025 edition of Wireless Festival, as Finsbury Park prepares to host the three-day music event from Friday 11 July to Sunday 13 July. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the UK’s biggest urban music festival, which has evolved into a major platform for rap, R&B, afrobeats and grime.
The 2025 event made headlines after it was announced that Canadian rapper Drake would headline all three nights — a first for the festival — sparking record-breaking ticket sales. The festival sold out within minutes.
Who's performing this year?
The full line-up now includes a mix of global headliners and emerging talent. Previously announced artists include:
Burna Boy
PARTYNEXTDOOR
Summer Walker
Vybz Kartel
Boy Better Know
Popcaan
Leon Thomas
BigXThaPlug
Lancey Foux
Nemzzz
Spice
Masicka
Newly added names to the roster include Nigerian rapper ODUMODUBLVCK, Atlanta’s SahBabii, and UK-based artists Darkoo and Odeal. Saturday’s Old Spice Stage will be headlined by Fimiguerrero, while Uncle Waffles, a leading figure in the amapiano scene, will close the festival on Sunday.
Also joining the line-up are rising R&B artists SAILORR and Nippa, along with a wave of homegrown UK talent including Chy Cartier, kwn, Len, YT, and Skeete.
New experiences and installations
In addition to live performances, festival goers can engage with Pass the Aux, a music-sharing installation on site. The setup allows attendees to print Polaroid song recommendations, inspired by West African studio photography. The project is a collaboration between the V&A Museum and artist-in-residence Michael Akuagwu.
Festival background and impact
Wireless began in Hyde Park as a rock and pop festival, but since relocating to Finsbury Park in 2019, it has cemented its reputation as a leading celebration of hip-hop, afrobeats, and youth culture.
Despite ongoing opposition from local campaigners, Festival Republic signed a five-year deal with Haringey Council in 2023 to continue hosting Wireless at the site. The council has defended the partnership, noting that the event generates significant income for park maintenance.
Last weekend, the park hosted major rock gigs, and further electronic music events are scheduled in August featuring Honey Dijon, CamelPhat, and ANOTR.
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This film marks the first cinematic release under the new unified DC Universe banner
First reactions to Superman (2025) praise its action, humour and emotional tone
Directed by James Gunn and starring David Corenswet as Superman
Premiered in Los Angeles ahead of 11 July theatrical release
Fans and critics call it a strong launch for the new DC Studios era
Superman early reviews call it “exciting” and “hopeful”
Following its premiere in Los Angeles on Monday night, the first social media reactions to Superman have begun to emerge — and they are largely positive. Though full reviews will be published closer to the 11 July release date, critics, journalists and early viewers have shared their first impressions online.
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What fans and critics are saying
“A terrific start for the new DC Studios,” – Erik Davis, Fandango Film journalist Erik Davis praised Superman as a promising launchpad for DC Studios under the leadership of James Gunn and Peter Safran.
“Loaded with exhilarating action set pieces and well-placed humour and levity,” – Perri Nemiroff, Collider Collider’s Perri Nemiroff highlighted the film’s balance of action and character-driven storytelling.
“Superman delivers on heart, humour and heroism. David Corenswet is perfectly cast,” – @TheNerdyCritic on X A fan reaction emphasised the emotional tone of the film, calling it a “Superman story we’ve been waiting for”.
“Hopeful, fun, and visually impressive — Superman is back!” – @FilmFanCentral Another viewer on social media described the reboot as a return to form for the character and the franchise.
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Meet the new Superman cast
Superman stars David Corenswet as Clark Kent / Superman and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane. The cast also includes:
Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor
Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen
Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl
Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner
Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho
Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific
Beck Bennett as Steve Lombard
James Gunn’s first film under new DC Studios
Directed by James Gunn, this film marks the first cinematic release under the new unified DC Universe banner, co-led by Gunn and Peter Safran since their appointment in October 2022.
Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Gunn said:
“People are looking for heroes right now... Superman is that.”
Safran added earlier this year that Superman is intended to bring clarity and cohesion to the DC brand, following years of fragmented storytelling by different creative teams.
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What’s next for DC Studios?
Superman launches the new DC Universe (DCU), with upcoming projects including:
Lanterns, an HBO Max series focused on Green Lantern
Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, set to release in 2026
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Superman releases in cinemas worldwide on 11 July 2025.
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The brand’s use of a traditional Indian design without acknowledgement
Neena Gupta posts a video wearing Kolhapuri chappals gifted by late actor Laxmikant Berde
Joins Kareena Kapoor in highlighting resemblance to a Prada sandal design
Luxury brand showcased similar footwear at Milan Fashion Week without reference to Indian origins
Both actresses emphasised the value of original handmade designs
Neena Gupta backs Kolhapuri chappals after Prada controversy
Veteran Indian actress Neena Gupta has weighed in on the ongoing conversation around Prada’s recent footwear collection after actress Kareena Kapoor earlier pointed out the brand’s use of a traditional Indian design without acknowledgement.
In a video shared on Instagram, Gupta showcased a pair of handmade Kolhapuri chappals gifted to her by the late actor Laxmikant Berde. Sharing the story behind the slippers, she said, “So, these Kolhapur slippers are in great demand these days. Once I did something with Laxmikant Berde—I don't remember what it was—so I asked him, can you get me these slippers from Kolhapur? He said yes. So he got them for me. This is the most beautiful slippers I have ever had. Most beautiful and handmade. I love them. Thank you, Laxmikant. You are not there anymore, but love you.”
Gupta concluded her post with a caption that read, “Real toh real hota hai..”, praising the authenticity and craftsmanship of traditional Indian footwear.
Gupta’s post comes shortly after Kareena Kapoor’s Instagram story where she posted a photo of her Kolhapuri chappals with the caption, “Sorry not Prada…but my OG Kolhapuri.” The comment was interpreted as a subtle response to Prada’s new sandal design, which many users online noted bore a strong resemblance to the traditional Indian style.
Prada presented the footwear at its Men’s Spring/Summer 2026 show in Milan on 22 June. The design, referred to as ‘Toe Ring Sandals’, did not include any reference to its resemblance to the Indian Kolhapuri chappals, sparking debate over cultural appropriation and lack of credit to traditional artisans.
Current projects
Kareena Kapoor was last seen in Singham Again, alongside Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, and Tiger Shroff.
Neena Gupta recently appeared in Metro In Dino, which was released on 4 July.
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Katy Perry relaxes on deck in a black bikini as she chats with friends
Katy Perry seen for the first time since confirming split with Orlando Bloom.
The singer relaxed on a yacht in Capri with daughter Daisy and close friends.
Representatives say the couple has shifted focus to co-parenting after months of changes.
Bloom shared cryptic quotes on loneliness while Perry broke down on stage in Australia.
Katy Perry appears to be embracing single life with warmth and grace after confirming her split from actor Orlando Bloom. Just days after their breakup statement, the pop star was seen enjoying a yacht holiday in Capri with her daughter Daisy and longtime friends.
Perry looked composed and at ease as she spent time on the water, marking her first public appearance since the relationship announcement. Dressed in a black bikini, with her hair tied back in a sleek bun, the singer was photographed laughing, hugging friends, and sharing moments with her 4½-year-old daughter.
Katy Perry with longtime friend Michael Kives during her getawayTwitter/info katy perry
Katy Perry seen in good spirits on yacht holiday
While the news of her separation from Bloom was still fresh, Perry looked relaxed and comfortable aboard the luxury yacht in Italy. She was spotted embracing former Hollywood agent Michael Kives, now a well-known investor, who is a close friend. Also on board was venture capitalist Ben Schwerin.
Photos showed Perry bonding with Daisy, holding her in her arms and smiling. The mother-daughter duo wore coordinated floral outfits earlier during the trip. Fans online praised Perry’s appearance and her apparent strength through the transition, with one user writing, “She hasn’t aged at all. Absolute queen energy.”
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Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom breakup confirmed
The outing came just days after Perry and Bloom issued a joint statement confirming their breakup. Their representatives shared that the couple had been "shifting their relationship over the past many months" and would now focus on co-parenting. They added, “Orlando and Katy will continue to be seen together as a family, as their shared priority is, and always will be raising their daughter with love, stability, and mutual respect.”
The pair had been together for nearly nine years, first meeting in 2016 at a Golden Globes afterparty. Their on-off romance included a brief breakup in 2017, a Valentine’s Day engagement in 2019, and the birth of their daughter in August 2020. Their wedding plans were postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and were never rescheduled.
Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom focus on raising their daughter with love and respect Getty Images
Orlando Bloom reflects on loneliness post-split
While Perry vacationed in Italy, Bloom made headlines of his own, attending the high-profile wedding of Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez solo. He later posted cryptic quotes about loneliness and emotional darkness to Instagram, including lines from Carl Jung: “Even a happy life cannot be without a measure of darkness…”
Sources told Us Weekly that while the breakup wasn’t contentious, it had been a long time coming. “There was tension for months,” one insider noted, adding that Katy felt a sense of relief not having to face another divorce, referring to her previous marriage to comedian Russell Brand, which ended in 2012.
Orlando Bloom to attend Jeff Bezos wedding alone as split rumours with Katy Perry grow Getty Images
Perry breaks down during final Australia show
In the days leading up to the yacht trip, Perry concluded her Australia leg of the Lifetimes tour. At her final show in Adelaide, she reportedly became emotional, holding her hands in the shape of a heart and thanking fans: “Thank you, Australia, for always being there for me.”
Her absence from the Bezos-Sánchez wedding was initially chalked up to a scheduling conflict, but it added to speculation about the status of her relationship with Bloom. The couple’s recent decision to rent out their Montecito home to Chris Pratt and Katherine Schwarzenegger further fuelled separation rumours before the announcement was made official.
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Despite the personal changes, Perry seems to be navigating the transition surrounded by loved ones, doing it with strength, clarity, and a sense of calm.
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Mia Regan, Romeo Beckham, Cruz Beckham, Harper Beckham, David Beckham, Victoria Beckham, Brooklyn Peltz Beckham and Nicola Peltz Beckham attend the Netflix 'Beckham' UK Premiere
Brooklyn Beckham is unlikely to attend Harper’s 14th birthday amid ongoing family tensions.
He recently skipped David Beckham’s 50th celebration to attend Nicola Peltz’s father’s birthday in the US.
Insiders say Harper is especially hurt as she shares a close bond with Brooklyn.
Brooklyn reportedly feels distant from the Beckham family and more connected to Nicola’s side.
The Beckham family is preparing to mark Harper’s 14th birthday this week, but the occasion is expected to be bittersweet. Brooklyn Beckham is not expected to join the celebrations, sparking concerns about a deepening rift between him and the rest of his family.
Once a close-knit unit, tensions reportedly began brewing after Brooklyn married American heiress and actress Nicola Peltz in 2022. Since then, his growing bond with Nicola’s family and increasing distance from his own has been a source of strain, insiders claim.
An old Instagram story of Victoria BeckhamInstagram Screengrab
Harper Beckham affected by Brooklyn’s absence
Among those most affected by Brooklyn’s ongoing estrangement is his youngest sibling, Harper. According to a source close to the family, the two shared a special relationship growing up, with Harper often looking up to Brooklyn as more than just a big brother.
“Harper’s really felt the shift,” the insider said. “She’s always adored Brooklyn. The family hoped Nicola would naturally bond with Harper too, but it hasn’t worked out that way. Now, the thought of Brooklyn missing her birthday is genuinely upsetting for Harper.”
David Beckham, Victoria Beckham and Brooklyn Beckham attend the Louis Vuitton Menswear Fall/Winter 2018-2019 showGetty Images
Prioritising the Peltz family over Beckham milestones
Brooklyn’s decision to attend the 83rd birthday celebration of Nicola’s billionaire father, Nelson Peltz, instead of joining his father David’s 50th birthday bash in London raised eyebrows and stirred speculation. While Victoria and David celebrated with close friends like Tom Cruise, Eva Longoria, and Guy Ritchie, Brooklyn was thousands of miles away in New York, posing for photos with Nicola and her father.
Nicola posted a heartfelt tribute to her dad on Instagram, calling him “the most loving and supportive father,” in a post that made no mention of the Beckhams. That same month, Brooklyn also marked the fifth anniversary of his proposal to Nicola, again with no public nod to his own family.
Victoria and David still hopeful for reconciliation
While David and Victoria are reportedly hurt, they have not given up hope of a reunion. They are said to be especially saddened by the emotional toll the situation is taking on Harper. “For Victoria, it’s not even about the drama anymore, it’s about family,” the source added. “She’d love nothing more than for Brooklyn to be there for Harper. But it’s just not looking likely.”
Past efforts to bring the family back together have faltered. Brooklyn and Nicola have missed several key family gatherings, and his absence on social media during those occasions has not gone unnoticed.
Brooklyn feels he ‘doesn’t fit’ with the Beckhams anymore
Sources close to Brooklyn suggest his growing alignment with Nicola’s family is not just about proximity but emotional comfort. “He doesn’t feel his family ever truly accepted Nicola,” one insider said. “Now that he’s become so close with her parents, especially Nelson, it’s like he’s found a new place to belong.”
Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz attend the Mugler Womenswear Fall/Winter 2024-2025 show Getty Images
The source added that Brooklyn did not set out to distance himself, but that marriage changed his priorities. “He still loves his siblings, but he’s a husband now, and that comes first.”