Benjamin Hall, Author at Cactus three

'We haven't gone beyond her': How the plays of Sarah Kane sent shockwaves through the 1990s

18

Jul

Culture and Entertainment

‘We haven’t gone beyond her’: The 1990s Theatre Revolution Sparked by Sarah Kane

In the 1990s, the theatre world underwent a dramatic shift, largely influenced by the plays of Sarah Kane. Known for her raw, uncompromising exploration of human suffering, Kane’s work broke conventions, challenged societal norms, and sent shockwaves throughout the theatre community. Her plays, which explored themes of violence, despair, and mental anguish, became both a source of controversy and a benchmark of artistic innovation. As one of the most influential playwrights of her generation, Sarah Kane not only transformed the way theatre was perceived but also how it could impact audiences emotionally and intellectually.Kane’s arrival in the theatrical world was…

18

Jul

By Benjamin Hall

Health

A cross between a nicotine pouch and an energy drink: Guide to caffeine pouches

Caffeine has long been the go-to stimulant for millions around the world. From morning coffee routines to energy drinks and pre-workout supplements, its appeal lies in its quick effects on focus, alertness, and fatigue. But in recent years, a new trend has emerged that blends the convenience of oral nicotine pouches with the boost of an energy drink: caffeine pouches.These small, discreet pouches are growing in popularity, particularly among young adults and those seeking an alternative to sugary beverages or smoking-related products. While they’re still relatively new on the market, their rapid rise is prompting curiosity—and concern—about how they work,…

A couple were accused of having an ‘illicit’ relationship. Their community allegedly shot them dead

18

Jul

By Benjamin Hall

Social Responsibility

Couple Allegedly Shot Dead by Community Over ‘Illicit’ Relationship Accusation

In an alarming event in the southwest region of Balochistan, Pakistan, a couple was allegedly killed by local individuals due to an “improper” relationship, supposedly under the orders of a tribal leader. A video capturing the murders, which rapidly gained widespread attention, depicted the victims being shot in the open during daylight hours in a desert location. Following this, authorities arrested 11 individuals suspected to be involved in the case.The video showed about twelve individuals encircling multiple automobiles. A lady, wearing a shawl, proceeded in front of one of the vehicles as a man trailed behind. She proclaimed, “You must…

Weak password allowed hackers to sink a 158-year-old company

17

Jul

By Benjamin Hall

Science and Technology

How a weak password led hackers to ruin a 158-year-old company

In the digital age, cybersecurity is no longer a concern reserved for tech giants or financial institutions—it’s a fundamental necessity for all organizations, regardless of size, industry, or history. Yet, despite growing awareness, one recent incident demonstrates how a basic oversight in digital security can have devastating consequences. A company with more than a century and a half of history saw its operations unravel due to a weak password—a simple misstep that opened the door to cybercriminals and ultimately led to its downfall.The company in question had been a cornerstone in its sector for over 150 years. With a long-standing…

China begins building world's largest dam, fuelling fears in India

17

Jul

By Benjamin Hall

International

World’s largest dam being built in China, Indian authorities concerned

China has begun building what is anticipated to be the biggest hydroelectric dam globally, a massive infrastructure endeavor situated close to its southwestern frontier. Although this development marks a crucial step in China’s renewable energy goals, it has raised increasing concerns in nearby India, mainly because of the dam’s placement on a river that continues into the Indian subcontinent.The new dam is being built on the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet, which becomes the Brahmaputra once it crosses into India. As one of the major rivers supporting agriculture, livelihoods, and biodiversity in northeastern India and Bangladesh, any large-scale development on…

World's first 150mph car returns to beach where it broke record

17

Jul

By Benjamin Hall

Science and Technology

World’s first 150mph car revisits the beach where it made history

A century after making automotive history, a pioneering land speed vehicle has returned to the very shoreline where it first stunned the world. The car, known for breaking the 150 mph barrier—a feat once thought impossible—has revisited the beach that served as its proving ground, offering a powerful reminder of human ambition and the relentless pursuit of progress.This return is more than a nostalgic gesture. It’s a moment of reflection on a pivotal era in engineering, when daredevils and innovators challenged the limits of technology on stretches of sand instead of tracks or test facilities. The vehicle’s reappearance on the…