Rachelle Abbott joins acclaimed British author and comedy writer John O’Farrell. From his favourite Christmas tales to the art of storytelling, John shares insights from his illustrious career, including the inspiration behind his witty novel, Family Politics.

As an award-winning author, lead writer for Spitting Image, scriptwriter for Have I Got News For You, and co-author of Chicken Run and its sequel, he’s also the co-host of the hit podcast We Are History and the creative mind behind musicals like Mrs. Doubtfire and Just for One Day.

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As part of The Bigger Life Festival, brought to you by Masterclasses from The London Standard, host Nicola Barron is joined by Josh Smith—celebrity interviewer, podcast host of Reign, and author of Great Chat: Seven Lessons for Better Conversations. With the festive season in full swing, Josh shares his expert tips on navigating tricky family dynamics, handling small talk at parties, and making meaningful connections during holiday gatherings.

The Bigger Life Festival kicks off in January with a series of live, interactive workshops designed to help you start the new year with purpose. From wellness to career advice, there’s something to inspire every part of your life. Early bird passes are available now—don’t miss out!

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The London Standard’s crime editor Anthony France reports a phone is now stolen in the capital every six minutes amid a 150 per cent increase in device snatches.

As part of an investigation into this crime epidemic, he interviewed phone theft victims and spent time with a City of London Police team to examine the work of the force’s anti-phone theft squad.

Anthony joins The Standard podcast to discuss his findings.

In part two, writer and director Susie McKenna on how a new pantomime production of the classic fairy tale Sleeping Beauty has been given a "modern remix".

Sleeping Beauty is on at Broadway Theatre in Catford until 31 December.

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