Television’s Angela Rippon speaks to Morley Radio

In the latest episode of Morley Guest, television journalist, newsreader, writer and presenter Angela Rippon CBE virtually joined Morley Radio to chat about keeping busy in lockdown, adapting to the new normal and the importance of the arts.

Talking to Matthew Cunningham, Chief Marketing and Engagement Officer at Morley College London, Angela chatted about her experiences of lockdown and presenting BBC One’s Health Check UK Live from her home, offering health advice, tips and companionship as the UK endures the COVID-19 crisis. She described how impressed she was by how people around the country have adapted: ‘We’ve invoked that Second World War poster, Keep Calm and Carry On. People have been knuckling down and finding things to do at home- all the things they’ve promised themselves they’d do if they had time… We’ve all adapted to it; I’ve been blown away by the inventiveness of everyone. ’

An Ambassador for the Royal Academy of Dance’s Silver Swans programme of ballet classes for the over 55s, Angela described the physical and mental benefits of dance, describing it as ‘the best all-round exercise for mind and body’. She enthused about the way people have been virtually engaging with the arts during lockdown, from virtual choir practices, writing poetry, painting, and watching streamed performances at home, expressing her hope that appreciation for the arts will be something we take into the new normal.

If you’ve been inspired by the arts in lockdown, or want to experience the physical and mental benefits of dance for yourself, take a look at our upcoming courses.

You can listen to the interview with Angela and many other shows on Morley Radio.

Image by David Tett, courtesy of the Royal Academy of Dance.

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