Tis the week of Christmas, which is so often filled with last minute panic. Maybe you don't have the money, haven't had time for shopping or are just out of ideas…whatever the reason, instead of panicking and battling through the crowds to find something, why not try some cheap and easy DIY Christmas gift ideas? After all nothing says Christmas better than homemade presents with a personal touch!

Since the early 19th century, Western culture has depicted male ballet dancers as weak, effeminate or homosexual. Studies have shown that teenagers in particular can have a highly stereotypical view of gender-specific sports, and these views make people less confident in breaking out of their shell and indulging in activities or arts that are seen as 'effeminate' or 'manly'.

A roundup of arts and media stories this week

Want to go for Gold? This podcast will certainly help!

Hello, podcast lovers! It has been a long time but we are back once more, and this time we are talking about how to achieve Gold Arts Award.

I enjoy the Golden Globes because no other awarding body takes into full account the achievements on both the big and small screen. The nominations for next year's ceremony have been released and, as can be expected from Globes, there are a few surprises.

Join us for an evening of music and celebrations...

Is the internet the death of good journalism? Is it the potential for diverse opinions? Is it a terrific platform for young writers?

Feeling down about the winter weather? I know I am! Whether you're five, twenty five or fifty, Christmas spirit is there for the taking. Here are 10 easy ways to catch hold of it right now.

Art is all about opinion. There is no right or wrong answer. But because of this, we as artists invest so much of ourselves into our work and to show that to the world can make you feel exposed and vulnerable. It's often hard to trust your opinion, that what you're creating is of a high quality, and it takes guts to share that work with others.

From the archive: I think it's fair to say Christmas isn't all fun and games when it comes to films.

A roundup of arts and media stories this week

DJ and Nicole are both dancers with Corali Dance Company, a UK company who focus on performers with learning disabilities, pairing them with collaborators from the wider dance world, offering career development and training opportunities. Here we meet two of their dancers who have completed Arts Award, at Bronze and Silver.