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Marcus Rashford has just had a ‘surreal’ Zoom call with Barack Obama
He spoke with the former US President to discuss the power young people can have to make change in society.
It’s not everyday you get to hop onto a Zoom call with Barack Obama.
Well, for the vast majority of us, the opportunity to speak directly with the former President of the United States is never actually going to present itself – but it’s hard to deny that Marcus Rashford deserves it after the year he’s had.
In a call organised by Penguin Books UK, the 23-year-old Wythenshawe-born Manchester United star was able to meet virtually with the 44th US president to chat about everything from the importance of giving back to your local community and the positive impact of reading – a cause which Rashford heavily champions – the to other themes from Obama’s memoir, A Promised Land.
The pair also spoke about some of their shared experiences, which include being raised by single mothers and wanting to make an impact on society.
“It’s quite surreal isn’t it?” Rashford said of the call.
“I’m sitting in my kitchen in Manchester, speaking to President Obama, but immediately, he made me feel at ease.
“It wasn’t long before I realised just how aligned our experiences as children were in shaping the men you see today – adversity, obstacles and all [and] I genuinely enjoyed every minute of it.
“When President Obama speaks, all you want to do is listen.”
The praise wasn’t just one sided though, as Mr Obama also had plenty of positive things to say about the young footballer and everything he’s achieved: “A lot of the young people I meet – including Marcus – they’re ahead of where I was when I was 23.
“They’re already making changes and being positive forces in their communities.”
Rashford made Manchester proud last year when he spearheaded a prominent campaign to tackle child food poverty in the UK during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, which ultimately led to 1.7 million vulnerable children being supported by a £520 million government scheme and other projects have helped deliver 130 million meals.
He has also launched a food education and cooking project for children – Full Time Meals – with renowned British chef, Tom Kerridge.
You can watch the full conversation between Marcus Rashford and Barack Obama on the Penguin Books UK YouTube channel today from 2pm.
Featured Image – Penguin Books UK
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A Twilight rave is coming to Manchester with DJs blasting 2000s indie and emo anthems
Emily Sergeant
A Twilight rave is coming to Manchester this spooky season.
It’s been nearly 20 years since the release of the titular first film in the Twilight Saga, based on author Stephanie Meyer’s bestselling book series of the same name, but despite two decades having passed, the films remain as beloved as ever.
Twilight went on to become a global phenomenon when it first hit cinemas back in November 2008, not just with its target audience of teens and young adults, but with people of all ages – making stars out of its lead actors Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart in the process, and generating millions at the box office.
With the impact it had on the culture at the time, it’s no wonder Twilight remained among fans’ favourites all these years later.
And this success is why events company Throwback Events is hosting a series of Twilight Raves across the UK and Europe this autumn, making a stop off here in Manchester in late November with tickets now on sale.
The event description reads: “Bella, where the hell you been loca? Join us as we celebrate Twilight at the club, where every day is Hoa Hoa Hoa season.
“Step into the shadows and relive the magic, mystery, and eternal romance of Twilight. Get ready for a night of anthems, nostalgia, and glittering darkness as we transform the dancefloor into Forks’ most iconic vampire coven.”
DJs will be spinning Twilight soundtracks on the night, alongside dark pop, emo, indie, and 2000s bangers, as well as playing fan edits from the films on big screens.
Oh, and to make it all the better, dressing up as vampires and werewolves is ‘highly encouraged’.
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Fancy it then? The Twilight Rave is coming to the Deaf Institute in Manchester on Saturday 21 November, and tickets will set you back upwards of £7 each.
Get your tickets here.
Featured Image – Summit Entertainment
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Manchester cinemas are offering tickets to big blockbusters for just £4 this weekend
Emily Sergeant
You can watch some of the year’s biggest blockbusters for just £4 this weekend.
That’s because, to celebrate National Cinema Weekend (5-6 September), Vue has announced that it’ll be offering cut-price tickets to everything from the latest blockbusters and family favourites, to indie horrors and classic re-releases, so you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy the full cinematic experience this autumn.
Some of the highlights currently showing that you’ll be able to see for just £4 include summer hits like Spider-Man: Brand New Day, The Odyssey, and Toy Story 5, as well as the recent release of Ridley Scott’s latest film, The Dog Stars, starring Jacob Elordi.
Family favourites such as Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Paw Patrol: The Dino Movie, and Cars will also be screening over National Cinema Weekend.
Meanwhile, horror fans can also catch new releases Insidious: Out of the Further, and indie horror Leviticus, or see the year’s biggest horror hit, Obsession, if you haven’t already.
The best bit about the offer? It applies to every seat on every showing, all weekend long.
This means that film lovers can enjoy Vue’s biggest and comfiest seats, Ultra Lux, which are strategically positioned to give the best possible view of the big screen – with extra-wide armrests, back and leg rests that recline independently, a personal table for snacks and beverages, and a state-of-the-art wine cooler, all for just £4 each.
Mike Anton, General Manager at Vue Manchester Printworks, said it’s been ‘an incredible year’ for film, adding: “This National Cinema Weekend, we want to celebrate the big screen experience by giving back to our audiences.
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“We encourage everyone to make the most of the celebration and enjoy a film at Vue.”
National Cinema Weekend returns for 2026 this Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 September, and you can book tickets on the Vue website here.
Featured Image – Krists Luhaers (via Unsplash)
Emily Sergeant -
28th May 2021 
