The prestigious Nobel Week has commenced in Stockholm and Oslo, where laureates are participating in a series of events leading up to the award ceremonies. Hungarian author László Krasznahorkai, recognized for his surreal and anarchic novels, is scheduled to deliver a lecture in Stockholm on Sunday. The Nobel judges have praised him as a “great epic writer” renowned for his absurdist themes and grotesque excesses. In Oslo, María Corina Machado, the Venezuelan laureate for Peace, will also be present to receive her award. The ceremonies will take place on December 10, coinciding with the anniversary of Alfred Nobel‘s death.
The week is marked by an array of lectures and discussions, providing an opportunity for the laureates to engage with the public and share insights into their work. This year’s events promise to highlight the diverse contributions of the awardees to literature and peace efforts.
In Washington, President Donald Trump honored the 2025 Kennedy Center honorees during a ceremony in the Oval Office. The recipients include notable figures such as actor Sylvester Stallone, singers Gloria Gaynor and George Strait, the rock band Kiss, and actor-singer Michael Crawford. Trump described this group as “perhaps the most accomplished and renowned class of Kennedy Center Honorees ever assembled.” The ceremony featured performances by Gaynor and Kiss, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
Over in Milan, Teatro alla Scala welcomed its gala season premiere with Dmitry Shostakovich’s opera “Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk.” This performance is significant as it is only the second time a Russian opera has been featured since the onset of the conflict in Ukraine. Instead of protests, a flash mob is set to demonstrate for peace during the event. The opera, which portrays the harsh realities of women’s lives under Stalin’s regime, has historical significance, having been blacklisted in 1936. American soprano Sara Jakubiak made her debut in the challenging title role, directed by Vasily Barkhatov.
In entertainment news, singer Darlene Love reflected on her enduring holiday classic “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home),” which she has performed for decades. Love noted that the song, released in 1963, has become a staple of the holiday season, resonating with audiences for its universal themes. She attributes its lasting popularity to its emotional lyrics, which continue to connect with listeners across generations.
In a more serious turn, American playwright Jeremy O. Harris, known for his acclaimed work “Slave Play,” was arrested in Japan on suspicion of smuggling ecstasy. Authorities reported that Harris was apprehended at Naha Airport in Okinawa on November 16, with approximately 0.0275 ounces of MDMA found in his possession. He had traveled from London for sightseeing, and while officials believe the drug was intended for personal use, further investigations are ongoing. Under Japanese law, Harris could face up to 23 days of custody before charges are filed.
In media developments, Vanity Fair has announced it will part ways with West Coast editor Olivia Nuzzi amid controversy over her prior coverage of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.. Both parties have agreed that her contract will not be renewed at the end of the year. Nuzzi, who gained prominence as a reporter for New York magazine, faced scrutiny over her undisclosed personal relationship with Kennedy, who currently heads the department of Health and Human Resources.
In a significant shift in the entertainment landscape, Netflix has finalized a deal to acquire Warner Bros., one of Hollywood’s oldest and most influential studios. This acquisition raises questions about potential changes in content distribution, including concerns about antitrust implications and the future of theatrical releases. Netflix has indicated a commitment to supporting theater releases, although it may consider shortening exclusive windows. The impact on filmmakers and the global exhibition business remains uncertain, with reactions expected from prominent directors.
As the entertainment world anticipates more developments, the release of Pope Leo XIV’s first full-length book in the United States is also generating interest. Titled “Peace Be with You! My Words to the Church and to the World,” the book is scheduled for release on February 26, 2025. HarperOne described it as a vision for peace and unity, featuring sermons and addresses from the Pope since his election in May 2024.
With a mix of celebration, controversy, and cultural reflection, this week promises to be significant across various spheres, from literature and peace to entertainment and politics.
