Thursday, 30 June 2011
Light House’s forthcoming comedy night to star UK’s leading magician and comedian Pete Firman
Comedian/magician Pete Firman may be familiar to some as he has most recently starred in BBC1’s primetime magic show ‘Don’t Miss A Trick’, Derren Brown’s ‘3D Magic Spectacular’ on Channel 4 and Jason Manford’s ‘Comedy Rocks’ on ITV1. Pete has appeared as presenter, pundit and panel guest on all sorts of programmes, as well as being nominated for a Golden Rose at the Rose d’Or Festival in Montreux.
“He is the funniest and by far the most accomplished performer on the New Magic scene…funnier than most comedians and more magical than Dumbledore on a good day. This guy is a complete star.” Time Out
“The man from Middlesbrough sets the pace for comedy-meets-magic in the 21st century.” The Times
“Scintillating magic tricks from an ebullient comedy mind” The Independent
Pete Firman and Matt Kirshen will be performing at the fourth show on Thursday 7th July, 8.15pm, for 8.30pm start.
Tickets cost just £12 per night, over 18s only.
For more information visit http://light-house.co.uk/visit/wolverhampton-on-the-fringe/
Enterprise Zone showcased at Secretary of State visit
The Greater Birmingham and Solihull LEP has hosted a visit by Eric Pickles MP, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, to its Enterprise Zone.
Deputy Chair of the LEP, Steve Hollis, was part of a delegation showcasing the Birmingham City Centre Zone to the Government party on Tuesday.
During the tour, Mr Pickles was shown around some of the key development sites which form the core of the Enterprise Zone proposals for job creation, including Paradise Circus and Arena Central, Digbeth Coach Station and the future site for a new John Lewis store within the redeveloped Pallisades.
He also visited many of the key publicly funded regeneration and infrastructure projects which will underpin the success of the LEP and region's future growth, including the £600m New Street Gateway Project and the £189m Library of Birmingham.
The LEP was chosen by Government to be one of the first in the country to develop an Enterprise Zone, and by selecting the city centre to house the Zone, has opened up the potential to deliver 50,000 jobs and has an economic value of £2.1 billion per year.
Steve Hollis, Deputy Chair of the LEP, said: “Tuesday’s visit enabled us to showcase the value this Enterprise Zone will deliver to not only Birmingham, but also the surrounding areas. Creating an environment where entrepreneurialism and innovation can thrive, from start ups to large business, is at the heart of what we want to achieve as the Greater Birmingham and Solihull LEP.
“The visit by Eric Pickles MP further highlights how collectively, this region is beginning to shout with a louder voice, ensuring Central Government take note of the ambition and hunger we have to become a global city of the future.”
Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, Eric Pickles, said: "I'm delighted by the enthusiasm and leadership being shown by the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership. I want Birmingham to bring forward the very best ideas for their Enterprise Zone because it can be a catalyst for the local economy.
"Enterprise Zones will transform 21 under-utilised parts of the country into hothouses for growth drawing in firms with simplified planning, super fast broadband and business rates discounts. Enterprise Zones can help make this country the best place in Europe to start and grow a business. "
Deputy Chair of the LEP, Steve Hollis, was part of a delegation showcasing the Birmingham City Centre Zone to the Government party on Tuesday.
During the tour, Mr Pickles was shown around some of the key development sites which form the core of the Enterprise Zone proposals for job creation, including Paradise Circus and Arena Central, Digbeth Coach Station and the future site for a new John Lewis store within the redeveloped Pallisades.
He also visited many of the key publicly funded regeneration and infrastructure projects which will underpin the success of the LEP and region's future growth, including the £600m New Street Gateway Project and the £189m Library of Birmingham.
The LEP was chosen by Government to be one of the first in the country to develop an Enterprise Zone, and by selecting the city centre to house the Zone, has opened up the potential to deliver 50,000 jobs and has an economic value of £2.1 billion per year.
Steve Hollis, Deputy Chair of the LEP, said: “Tuesday’s visit enabled us to showcase the value this Enterprise Zone will deliver to not only Birmingham, but also the surrounding areas. Creating an environment where entrepreneurialism and innovation can thrive, from start ups to large business, is at the heart of what we want to achieve as the Greater Birmingham and Solihull LEP.
“The visit by Eric Pickles MP further highlights how collectively, this region is beginning to shout with a louder voice, ensuring Central Government take note of the ambition and hunger we have to become a global city of the future.”
Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, Eric Pickles, said: "I'm delighted by the enthusiasm and leadership being shown by the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership. I want Birmingham to bring forward the very best ideas for their Enterprise Zone because it can be a catalyst for the local economy.
"Enterprise Zones will transform 21 under-utilised parts of the country into hothouses for growth drawing in firms with simplified planning, super fast broadband and business rates discounts. Enterprise Zones can help make this country the best place in Europe to start and grow a business. "
Local Potter's 'Dream Figures' on Display
Elspeth, whose usual distinctive designs feature chickens, hares and guinea fowl has been working on a series of figures for the last 7 years depicting the elements.
Elspeth said "I had been commissioned to make a large Easter Island head to go in a garden and I thoroughly enjoyed hand building on such a large scale. I thought about Easter Island heads and also Japanese Haniwa figures – large terracotta funerary figures from the 3rd to 6th century AD - which I have liked for a long time, and the idea for the figures came to me."
Elspeth continued "the figures are, essentially, large coil pots. It was exhilarating and sometimes alarming for them to gradually take shape from the feet up."
The figures also represent Elspeth's life-long interest in North American Indian cultures and artifacts.
Having initially made rough drawings of the figures Elspeth said "it was very helpful for measurements but the drawings were deliberately not too detailed as I wanted the figures to sort of emerge in their own right as they went along". Each figure is made from 'crank' clay and fired to Stoneware temperatures – around 1280C.
Elspeth's initial idea was to create each figure representing a season but this gradually turned into the 4 elements – Earth, Air, Fire and Water. Elspeth said "in the end I think what they really relate to are activities and ways of being which are very important to me. Although I actually 'do' them to some extent, they remain elusive – always just out of reach – and as such they are 'Dreams' ".
The first figure Elspeth made was Air, holding a Prayer Stick with a model of a bird. Earth followed, holding bean poles and a bundle of flowerpots. Then Water, and last year Elspeth made Fire. At the beginning of this year she completed Water by making a paddle and a 12" model of a birch bark canoe and completed Fire by making a pair of snowshoes.
Elspeth, who is a keen canoeist, continued "my admiration for First Nation Canadians and Native Americans knows no bounds. The canoe building especially is so clever – a sublime craft!" The Open Days at Willey Furnace Pottery are very popular with those that know and love Elspeth's distinctive work. Elspeth continued "I am always amazed at how many people come to the open days. I think it is usually between 50 and 100 people, so it gets quite crowded but everyone seems to be very good humoured about the crush!"
The Open Studio is on Monday August 29th from 10am – 4pm. Complementary refreshments will be available. The pottery is also open whenever the sign is on the roadside or by appointment.
Willey Furnace Pottery is at Barrow Road, Broseley. TF12 5JQ and will be well signposted on the day.
For more information please telephone Elspeth on 01952 885759 or mobile: 07790347007
e-mail: elspeth.wfpottery@hotmail.co.uk
Pinocchio – Family show in Brueton Park
Heartbreak Productions bring this classic family favourite to the outdoor setting of Brueton Park on Tuesday 26 July.
Pinocchio, the wood carver’s puppet, wants to become a real boy but first has to prove himself brave, honest and generous.
This adaptation carries to the stage a fresh, lively adaptation of this children’s fable, suitable for ages 5+.
The first 336 tickets sold are guaranteed a seat in the theatre, should the production be moved inside in the case of extreme weather. Bring a blanket or seat, picnic and warm clothing!
Limited parking is available in car park (Warwick Road end). Gates open at 5.30pm to set up your picnic, with the show starting at 7pm.
Tickets are £7 (£6 child) in advance and £8 (£7 child on gate). Call the Box Office on 0121 704 6962 to book tickets and always check availability if paying on the gate, as outdoor shows often sell out.
Pinocchio, the wood carver’s puppet, wants to become a real boy but first has to prove himself brave, honest and generous.
This adaptation carries to the stage a fresh, lively adaptation of this children’s fable, suitable for ages 5+.
The first 336 tickets sold are guaranteed a seat in the theatre, should the production be moved inside in the case of extreme weather. Bring a blanket or seat, picnic and warm clothing!
Limited parking is available in car park (Warwick Road end). Gates open at 5.30pm to set up your picnic, with the show starting at 7pm.
Tickets are £7 (£6 child) in advance and £8 (£7 child on gate). Call the Box Office on 0121 704 6962 to book tickets and always check availability if paying on the gate, as outdoor shows often sell out.
2012 Sports Volunteering Project
Dear Partner
I am pleased to report that to coincide with the GamesMakers interviews taking place at the University of Warwick the www.wmfor2012.com/volunteering website has been upgraded.
Anyone from the East or West Midlands interested in volunteering in sport can now register on the site, and their details will be passed to their local officer for the County Sports Partnership who will endeavour to find them a placement.
I would really appreciate it if you could pass on this information to people who you are in contact with to inform them that they can Get Involved in their Local Community as a SportMaker - Inspired by 2012 – and the first step is to register at www.wmfor2012.com/volunteering
If you require any emailed or hard copy publicity –such as posters or postcards – please drop me a line back.
Matt Kendall
Sports Volunteer Co-ordinator (West Midlands 2012)
Telephone: 0121 237 5818
Email: matthewk@rawm.co.uk
Twitter: twitter.com/_rawm
http://www.twitter.com/_rawm
I am pleased to report that to coincide with the GamesMakers interviews taking place at the University of Warwick the www.wmfor2012.com/volunteering website has been upgraded.
Anyone from the East or West Midlands interested in volunteering in sport can now register on the site, and their details will be passed to their local officer for the County Sports Partnership who will endeavour to find them a placement.
I would really appreciate it if you could pass on this information to people who you are in contact with to inform them that they can Get Involved in their Local Community as a SportMaker - Inspired by 2012 – and the first step is to register at www.wmfor2012.com/volunteering
If you require any emailed or hard copy publicity –such as posters or postcards – please drop me a line back.
Matt Kendall
Sports Volunteer Co-ordinator (West Midlands 2012)
Telephone: 0121 237 5818
Email: matthewk@rawm.co.uk
Twitter: twitter.com/_rawm
http://www.twitter.com/_rawm
Go Green in Mell Square
Solihull residents are being invited to attend the ‘Go Green’ Day in Mell Square this weekend on Saturday 2 July from 10:30am – 3:30pm, to help people become more environmentally friendly.
The event has been organised by Solihull Faith Forum’s eco group, part of the Solihull Partnership, to encourage residents and faith communities to think green.
Residents will be able to find out about green technology, get support and advice from a range of environmental organisations including Solihull Council Environmental Champions, Park Rangers, RSPB and Fairtrade. There will also be a number of market stalls and activities for all ages where people can take on a water test challenge between bottled and tap water.
Staff from the Council’s Waste and Recycling team will also be on hand to give information about the forthcoming changes to kerbside recycling collections, which take effect from 26 September.
Cabinet Member for Community Services, Councillor Mrs Kate Wild said: “This is a great opportunity for all residents to come together in trying to tackle these issues as we move towards a greener Solihull. From recycling more household waste to volunteering on local environmental projects, there are plenty of ways for people to do their bit.”
Event organiser and Solihull Faiths’ Forum steering group member, Beryl Moppett said: “We want people from all our different communities to come along and have some fun while learning more about sustainable living in Solihull.”
For more information about the event, please contact event organiser Beryl Moppett on 0121 705 0337.
The event has been organised by Solihull Faith Forum’s eco group, part of the Solihull Partnership, to encourage residents and faith communities to think green.
Residents will be able to find out about green technology, get support and advice from a range of environmental organisations including Solihull Council Environmental Champions, Park Rangers, RSPB and Fairtrade. There will also be a number of market stalls and activities for all ages where people can take on a water test challenge between bottled and tap water.
Staff from the Council’s Waste and Recycling team will also be on hand to give information about the forthcoming changes to kerbside recycling collections, which take effect from 26 September.
Cabinet Member for Community Services, Councillor Mrs Kate Wild said: “This is a great opportunity for all residents to come together in trying to tackle these issues as we move towards a greener Solihull. From recycling more household waste to volunteering on local environmental projects, there are plenty of ways for people to do their bit.”
Event organiser and Solihull Faiths’ Forum steering group member, Beryl Moppett said: “We want people from all our different communities to come along and have some fun while learning more about sustainable living in Solihull.”
For more information about the event, please contact event organiser Beryl Moppett on 0121 705 0337.
Wednesday, 29 June 2011
REMINDER: Slimming World Business Grants Events Tomorrow
NHS Birmingham East and North in partnership with Heart of Birmingham Teaching Primary Care Trust, are offering business support grants to support community members to set up a Slimming World franchise.
Our priority areas that we are hoping to target are Washwood Heath, Aston, Bordesley Green, Sparkbrook, Handsworth, Soho, Ladywood.
We are holding two introductory events tomorrow Thursday 30th June at;
· 11am at Birmingham City Council, Conference Room 1, Manor House, 40 Moat Lane, Digbeth, B5 5BD
. 6pm at Waterlinks, Richard Street, Aston, Birmingham, B7 4AA
These events are designed for community members to find out more about the opportunity and decide if they want to express an interest to find out more and take it forward.
Please help circulate the following opportunity among residents, third sector organisations and your contacts as widely as possible.
Kindest regards,
Eleanor Cappell
Social Entrepreneur in Residence (SEiR) (NHS Birmingham East and North)
Direct: 0208 709 4823 (Monday) 0121 380 9019 (Tue – Fri)
Mobile: 07956 317 236
Twitter: http://twitter.com/SEiR_NHS_BEN
Website: http://bensgottalent.wordpress.com/
Switchboard: +44 (0) 20 8980 6263
Our priority areas that we are hoping to target are Washwood Heath, Aston, Bordesley Green, Sparkbrook, Handsworth, Soho, Ladywood.
We are holding two introductory events tomorrow Thursday 30th June at;
· 11am at Birmingham City Council, Conference Room 1, Manor House, 40 Moat Lane, Digbeth, B5 5BD
. 6pm at Waterlinks, Richard Street, Aston, Birmingham, B7 4AA
These events are designed for community members to find out more about the opportunity and decide if they want to express an interest to find out more and take it forward.
Please help circulate the following opportunity among residents, third sector organisations and your contacts as widely as possible.
Kindest regards,
Eleanor Cappell
Social Entrepreneur in Residence (SEiR) (NHS Birmingham East and North)
Direct: 0208 709 4823 (Monday) 0121 380 9019 (Tue – Fri)
Mobile: 07956 317 236
Twitter: http://twitter.com/SEiR_NHS_BEN
Website: http://bensgottalent.wordpress.com/
Switchboard: +44 (0) 20 8980 6263
FAMILY SUNDAY OPEN DAY AT THE ARCHERY
10am – 4pm
Edgbaston Archery and Lawn Tennis Society, 14A Westbourne Road, next to the Botanical Gardens.
Join us for a fun day of free art and tennis activities at the oldest lawn tennis club in the world, founded in 1860. Opportunity for players of all ages and standards to receive free coaching during the day. Special 2011 subscription discounts for all new members who join on the day. Join in with our arts and crafts activities, including badge-making and photography. Plus a display of antique tennis dress & equipment from the famous Chris & Sue Elks' collection.
FREE. Drop-in. No need to book.
Acker Bilk and his Paramount Jazz Band
Following a sell out performance last Spring, Jazz legend Acker Bilk returns to Solihull Arts Complex on Saturday 23 July at 7.30pm in the Theatre.
Acker Bilk’s career is one of British music’s success stories. His first hit Stranger on the Shore was the first ever record to reach number one in the US and the UK simultaneously, and his popularity since then remains as high as ever.
He has recorded with prominent jazz and rock musicians such as the late Humphrey Littleton and Van Morrison to name but two and with over sixty years of musical experience and an OBE under his belt he still continues to tour with his Paramount Jazz Band. This chance to see a jazz legend is not to be missed!
Tickets cost £18. To book, call the Box Office on 0121 704 6962.
Acker Bilk’s career is one of British music’s success stories. His first hit Stranger on the Shore was the first ever record to reach number one in the US and the UK simultaneously, and his popularity since then remains as high as ever.
He has recorded with prominent jazz and rock musicians such as the late Humphrey Littleton and Van Morrison to name but two and with over sixty years of musical experience and an OBE under his belt he still continues to tour with his Paramount Jazz Band. This chance to see a jazz legend is not to be missed!
Tickets cost £18. To book, call the Box Office on 0121 704 6962.
THE WARWICKSHIRE WATERCOLOURISTS EXHIBITION 2011
Open from 10.30am to 5.30pm, closing Tuesday at 1.00 pm
To be held at the Reading Room in the village of Berkswell
The Warwickshire Watercolourists are a group of 50 artists working under the tuition of professional artist Trevor Boult. It is an exciting and dynamic exhibition of accomplished artists and talented beginners. It will inspire the amateur leisure painter and give pleasure to all who enjoy viewing paintings whilst raising the profile of the watercolour medium.
Information about art classes and workshops can be found at the exhibition or on our websites.
The village of Berkswell with its very attractive church and museum, offers an ideal location for the exhibition. Support for British Heart Foundation will take the form of a raffle of a painting.
For further information and news about the exhibition, the artists and their work , go to their web sites at http://www.trevorboult.co.uk/.
Stage 27 Amateur Dramatics presents Midsummer Mysteries at the mac
Stage 27 Amateur Dramatics invites you to a nerve-jangling performance of three one act plays at the mac Hexagon Theatre, Edgbaston, Birmingham on Friday 8th and Saturday 9th July 2011.
The Edge - by Steve Carley
Marcus is a man teetering on a psychological edge. Haunted by the ‘gift’ of premonition, it is only a matter of time before he discovers a terrifying truth.
They Came To A Cottage - by Mary Neild
A group of travellers find themselves lost on a deserted, misty moor. What terrible secrets await them inside Wastelands Cottage?
A Cut In The Rates - by Alan Ayckbourn
Miss Pickhart was only intending to collect some unpaid rates from a tenant of an eerie old house. Little did she know that the fun was just about to begin…..
Stage 27 is pleased to be performing once again at the mac after its £15.2 million pound refurbishment, and we hope that you will be able to join us. There are refreshment facilities and free parking available.
Midsummer Mysteries (three one act performances)
7pm on Friday 8th July and 4pm & 7.30pm on Saturday 9th July 2011. Tickets: £8 (£7 concession)
Midsummer Nightmare (single one act performance of ‘They Came To A Cottage’)
10pm on Friday 8th July 2011. Tickets: £5 (£4.50 concession)
Tickets can be purchased directly from the mac:
www.macarts.co.uk/event/midsummer-mysteries / http://www.macarts.co.uk/event/they-came-to-a-cottage
0121 446 3232
Stage 27 is one of the oldest, self-financed Amateur Dramatics Groups in Birmingham and is based at Acocks Green Methodist Church. With members of all ages and experience, we are a fun, friendly Group who enjoy performing all aspects of Amateur Dramatics, culminating in two Theatrical Productions a year. We regularly enter local Acting Festivals, and have been successful on many occasions. Our Group has also taken part in television and extras work and recently performed dramatic excerpts from Lord Of The Rings at the Birmingham City Council 2011 Tolkien Weekend at Sarehole Mill. Above all we enjoy what we do and don’t take anything too seriously!
Amateur Dramatics isn’t just about acting. It’s about stage/costume design, backstage work, advertising and directing - to name but a few! If you are interested in joining Stage 27, or would like to find out about future productions, please email Helen at: stage27@hotmail.co.uk or visit: http://www.stage27.co.uk/. No experience necessary!
Countryside communities 'worst hit' by strikes
Rural communities will be among those worst hit by widespread public sector strikes planned for Thursday (30 June), suggests a survey.
Industrial action threatens to further reduce already limited rural services and accelerate the pressures faced by vulnerable people living in the countryside.
The Rural Insight survey, which canvassed the views of 1300 rural residents, shows it is getting increasingly difficult to live in rural England.
Poor access to basic services were already making rural communities less sustainable, said report author Ivan Annibal of Rose Regeneration.
"I make no comment on the rights and wrongs of public sector industrial action," said Mr Annibal.
"My concern is that disruption to already distant services will have a grievous impact on rural society's most vulnerable people - children, the elderly and the unemployed."
Flagship government plans for local people to deliver local services through the Big Society must be better thought through if they are to benefit rural communities, says the study.
Although rural communities value volunteering, the survey found that many communities lack the enthusiasm needed to deliver more services successfully.
While the survey highlights many attractive attributes about life in the countryside, it also explodes the myth of a rural idyll.
"It is all too eat to pigeon hole rural communities as affluent," said Mr Annibal.
"Our report reveals that in many distinctive and difficult to overcome ways they are very vulnerable, particularly if you live in them without a good income."
Benefits of rural living include attractive surroundings, a strong sense of community, good life choices, lack of crime and a lack of pollution.
But challenges include high fuel costs, a lack of affordable rural housing, poor access to meaningful local employment and slow broadband speeds.
Taken together, these factors make it difficult for many rural residents to access services that are often a long way away.
"They prefer the idea of better transport to get people to services, rather than services provided electronically via the internet or by local community groups," said Mr Annibal.
"This represents another wake-up call for those who assume the Big Society will somehow spontaneously spring to life and come to their rescue."
But the fact that some communities valued the informal provision of rural services by volunteers suggested all was not lost, said Mr Annibal.
It was still not too late for the Big Society to make rural communities more sustainable by encouraging people to do more for themselves, he added.
Mr Annibal said: "The government must think harder about what makes rural places tick. It must also develop local know-how to make the Big Society happen."
Industrial action threatens to further reduce already limited rural services and accelerate the pressures faced by vulnerable people living in the countryside.
The Rural Insight survey, which canvassed the views of 1300 rural residents, shows it is getting increasingly difficult to live in rural England.
Poor access to basic services were already making rural communities less sustainable, said report author Ivan Annibal of Rose Regeneration.
"I make no comment on the rights and wrongs of public sector industrial action," said Mr Annibal.
"My concern is that disruption to already distant services will have a grievous impact on rural society's most vulnerable people - children, the elderly and the unemployed."
Flagship government plans for local people to deliver local services through the Big Society must be better thought through if they are to benefit rural communities, says the study.
Although rural communities value volunteering, the survey found that many communities lack the enthusiasm needed to deliver more services successfully.
While the survey highlights many attractive attributes about life in the countryside, it also explodes the myth of a rural idyll.
"It is all too eat to pigeon hole rural communities as affluent," said Mr Annibal.
"Our report reveals that in many distinctive and difficult to overcome ways they are very vulnerable, particularly if you live in them without a good income."
Benefits of rural living include attractive surroundings, a strong sense of community, good life choices, lack of crime and a lack of pollution.
But challenges include high fuel costs, a lack of affordable rural housing, poor access to meaningful local employment and slow broadband speeds.
Taken together, these factors make it difficult for many rural residents to access services that are often a long way away.
"They prefer the idea of better transport to get people to services, rather than services provided electronically via the internet or by local community groups," said Mr Annibal.
"This represents another wake-up call for those who assume the Big Society will somehow spontaneously spring to life and come to their rescue."
But the fact that some communities valued the informal provision of rural services by volunteers suggested all was not lost, said Mr Annibal.
It was still not too late for the Big Society to make rural communities more sustainable by encouraging people to do more for themselves, he added.
Mr Annibal said: "The government must think harder about what makes rural places tick. It must also develop local know-how to make the Big Society happen."
Lady Sings the Blues at Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Tuesday, 28 June 2011
BRIAN CONLEY AND LYNDA BELLINGHAM SPRINKLE FAIRYTALE MAGIC OVER BRITAIN’S BIGGEST PANTO!
Brian Conley and Lynda Bellingham, the stars of this year’s Birmingham Hippodrome pantomime, paid an early visit to Birmingham to officially launch the theatre’s spectacular Christmas show, a brand new production of Cinderella. They arrived at the home of Britain’s biggest pantomime in Cinderella’s coach and ponies, together with an early dusting of snow, to issue an invitation for everyone to attend the Ball this Festive Season!
Brian Conley, one of Britain’s most-popular entertainers and the country’s most sought after pantomime star, returns to Birmingham Hippodrome in the role of Buttons which marks Brian’s fifth pantomime at Birmingham Hippodrome. Brian has recently finished touring the UK in Brother Love’s Travelling Salvation and has starred in the West End and touring production of Hairspray, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (both of which he played at the Hippodrome) and portrayed Jolson in the Olivier award-winning hit musical of the same name in London and at Birmingham Hippodrome.
On television he has enjoyed phenomenal success on programmes such as Let Me Entertain You, Dirty Rotten Cheater and the hugely-successful The Brian Conley Show and Brian Conley: Alive and Dangerous. He has guest-hosted The Paul O’Grady Show on a number of occasions and has also appeared on several Royal Variety Performances as well as Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway, Loose Women and recently on The 5 O’Clock Show and The Michael Ball Show.
Joining Brian on stage is Lynda Bellingham who plays the role of Fairy Godmother. Lynda has enjoyed a rich acting career spanning 40 years, with highlights including her roles as Helen Herriot in All Things Great and Small and Faith Grayshott in Second Thoughts and Faith in the Future. As well as her regular appearances on Loose Women, Lynda performed in Calendar Girls both for the national tour and in the West End.
This year’s pantomime also stars an icon of children’s television and the world’s most famous fox - Basil Brush, in the role of Baron Basil - Boom, Boom! Since making his screen debut in the 1960s, Basil has appeared on numerous television programmes including Blue Peter, The Weakest Link and French and Saunders, and has hosted numerous series of his own shows.
The story of Cinderella, the most popular panto of them all, wouldn’t be complete without two ugly-sisters, and they don’t come any uglier than David Robbins and Martin Ramsdin! Together they have one of the largest and most lavish wardrobes in pantoland - with at least 10 costume changes each per performance!
Staged by Qdos Entertainment, the world’s largest pantomime producer, Cinderella is written and directed by Michael Harrison, managing director of Qdos Entertainment’s pantomime division.
“We are thrilled that Brian is returning to the Hippodrome stage once again in this brand new version of Cinderella and delighted that he will be joined by Lynda, Basil and an outstanding cast in a lavish and unmissable production of the most popular pantomime tale of them all,” says Michael.
He added “No staging of the enchanting tale of Cinderella would be complete without the magical transformation scene where Cinderella swaps her rags for a beautiful gown and heads to the Prince’s palace. To help the Fairy Godmother with her task we have a very special animatronic flying Pegasus which will transport Cinderella to the Ball in real style!” Michael added.
Stuart Griffiths, Chief Executive, Birmingham Hippodrome said: “Brian Conley is one of the UK’s most popular entertainers who has over the years enjoyed several record-breaking pantomime seasons here. Incredibly popular with our audiences, he has made a huge contribution to making Birmingham Hippodrome the home of the UK’s biggest pantomime.”
Cinderella runs at Birmingham Hippodrome from Saturday 17 December 2011 to Sunday 29 January 2012. Tickets can be booked on 0844 338 5000 or online at http://www.birminghamhippordrome.com/ . Tickets are priced £11.50-£35. Performance times vary please enquire when booking. Sunday performances available. Calls vary from 5p per min. 5% transaction charge.
Birmingham's Big Idea Bonanza shortlists 6 applicants
Dear all,
We received over 62 applications to the Birmingham & Solihull Big Idea Bonanza and the short-listed 6 applicants are:
Mother and Midwife Together – To utilise midwives in supporting women’s empowerment, encouraging them to make responsible and life improving choices around childbirth
Community Comedy Club – To tackle low level anxiety and depression in an innovative way; through comedy
My Story In My Words – Tackling mental health issues with females in the South East Asian community through a range of unique and fresh tools that combine story-telling and mind mapping in a facilitated environment
Young Mum’s Time to Shine – A social Mumpreneur leading a mentoring scheme for young mothers aged 13 – 19 years with the aim of reducing repeat unwanted pregnancies
Domestic Violence Project – An innovative community led approach to tackling domestic violence via survivorship mentoring and community empowerment
Comfort Eater Beater App – A mobile health Smartphone application to prevent comfort eating that is based on scientific research into emotional eating
The final 6 will attend our Bonanza Festival this Friday where they will pitch their ideas to win £2,000 of seed investment.
To meet the Bonanza Dragons, hear about the process and read comments so far follow this link:
http://bensgottalent.wordpress.com/category/bonanza/
Eleanor Cappell
Social Entrepreneur in Residence (SEiR) (NHS Birmingham East and North)
Direct: 0208 709 4823 (Monday) 0121 380 9019 (Tue – Fri)
Mobile: +44 (0) 7956 317 236
Twitter: http://twitter.com/SEiR_NHS_BEN
Website: http://bensgottalent.wordpress.com/
Switchboard: +44 (0) 20 8980 6263
We received over 62 applications to the Birmingham & Solihull Big Idea Bonanza and the short-listed 6 applicants are:
Mother and Midwife Together – To utilise midwives in supporting women’s empowerment, encouraging them to make responsible and life improving choices around childbirth
Community Comedy Club – To tackle low level anxiety and depression in an innovative way; through comedy
My Story In My Words – Tackling mental health issues with females in the South East Asian community through a range of unique and fresh tools that combine story-telling and mind mapping in a facilitated environment
Young Mum’s Time to Shine – A social Mumpreneur leading a mentoring scheme for young mothers aged 13 – 19 years with the aim of reducing repeat unwanted pregnancies
Domestic Violence Project – An innovative community led approach to tackling domestic violence via survivorship mentoring and community empowerment
Comfort Eater Beater App – A mobile health Smartphone application to prevent comfort eating that is based on scientific research into emotional eating
The final 6 will attend our Bonanza Festival this Friday where they will pitch their ideas to win £2,000 of seed investment.
To meet the Bonanza Dragons, hear about the process and read comments so far follow this link:
http://bensgottalent.wordpress.com/category/bonanza/
Eleanor Cappell
Social Entrepreneur in Residence (SEiR) (NHS Birmingham East and North)
Direct: 0208 709 4823 (Monday) 0121 380 9019 (Tue – Fri)
Mobile: +44 (0) 7956 317 236
Twitter: http://twitter.com/SEiR_NHS_BEN
Website: http://bensgottalent.wordpress.com/
Switchboard: +44 (0) 20 8980 6263
Ironbridge Gorge Brass Band Festival Celebrates World Heritage Site 25th Anniversary
Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron: 16th and 17th July
This year, the Ironbridge Gorge Brass Band Festival will be celebrating the World Heritage Site’s 25th anniversary with a specially commissioned piece of music by British composer Matthew Hall. Taking place on the Green at the Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th July, it will showcase some of the finest brass bands from Shropshire and surrounding counties.
The new composition will be introduced at the ticketed ‘Last Night of the Proms’ concert on the Saturday evening; pre-booking is essential. For the first time this year the event will also be held outside with proceeds donated to the Severn Hospice, which has been caring for patients with terminal illnesses in Shropshire, Telford and Mid Wales for over 20 years.
One of ten award-winning museums within the Ironbridge Gorge, the Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron site provides a fantastic venue combining plenty of space for the festival to grow, while retaining the intimacy and atmosphere which has made the event such a success since it began in 2005.
Saturday’s entertainment runs from 11am until 5pm starting with the Abraham Darby Band, while on Sunday events begin at 11.30am with the City of Wolverhampton Band and finishing with the Jaguar Land Rover Band at 5pm until 6pm. Other performers include the Porthywaen Youth Band; Wellington (Telford) Brass Band; Tongwynlais Temperance Band and many others. There will also be a bar and refreshments available to purchase.
The bands will perform in front of the Old Furnace where Abraham Darby first smelted iron with coke, an innovation that led to iron making on a massive scale changing the lives of millions of people.
The ‘Last Night of the Proms’ concert begins at 7.30pm; parking will be available at the museum and tickets priced at £10 per person can be booked online
http://www.ironbridgebandfestival.co.uk/ or call 07980 475335.
For more details visit http://www.ironbridgebandfestival.co.uk/ , while for information about other things to see and do nearby and accommodation suggestions see www.visitironbridge.co.uk.
This year, the Ironbridge Gorge Brass Band Festival will be celebrating the World Heritage Site’s 25th anniversary with a specially commissioned piece of music by British composer Matthew Hall. Taking place on the Green at the Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th July, it will showcase some of the finest brass bands from Shropshire and surrounding counties.
The new composition will be introduced at the ticketed ‘Last Night of the Proms’ concert on the Saturday evening; pre-booking is essential. For the first time this year the event will also be held outside with proceeds donated to the Severn Hospice, which has been caring for patients with terminal illnesses in Shropshire, Telford and Mid Wales for over 20 years.
One of ten award-winning museums within the Ironbridge Gorge, the Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron site provides a fantastic venue combining plenty of space for the festival to grow, while retaining the intimacy and atmosphere which has made the event such a success since it began in 2005.
Saturday’s entertainment runs from 11am until 5pm starting with the Abraham Darby Band, while on Sunday events begin at 11.30am with the City of Wolverhampton Band and finishing with the Jaguar Land Rover Band at 5pm until 6pm. Other performers include the Porthywaen Youth Band; Wellington (Telford) Brass Band; Tongwynlais Temperance Band and many others. There will also be a bar and refreshments available to purchase.
The bands will perform in front of the Old Furnace where Abraham Darby first smelted iron with coke, an innovation that led to iron making on a massive scale changing the lives of millions of people.
The ‘Last Night of the Proms’ concert begins at 7.30pm; parking will be available at the museum and tickets priced at £10 per person can be booked online
http://www.ironbridgebandfestival.co.uk/ or call 07980 475335.
For more details visit http://www.ironbridgebandfestival.co.uk/ , while for information about other things to see and do nearby and accommodation suggestions see www.visitironbridge.co.uk.
New economics meeting next Saturday - challenging the BIG SIX - Friends of the Earth
10.15-12.00
FOE warehouse, 54 Alison St
Digbeth, Birmingham
With Scottish Power, seeming to be leading the pack, the big energy companies are about to increase their prices for energy for the coming winter.
Chris Huhne says people should be considering switching providers, the regulators are taking a closer look at how these companies operate than ever before. The Big Six's plans to build new nuclear power plants are also being subject to a scrutiny that had not been expected. New energy market laws are being considered for next year.
We will be looking at how the energy agenda this now re-shaping.
This is an open meeting, please feel free to pass this invite along.
FOE warehouse, 54 Alison St
Digbeth, Birmingham
With Scottish Power, seeming to be leading the pack, the big energy companies are about to increase their prices for energy for the coming winter.
Chris Huhne says people should be considering switching providers, the regulators are taking a closer look at how these companies operate than ever before. The Big Six's plans to build new nuclear power plants are also being subject to a scrutiny that had not been expected. New energy market laws are being considered for next year.
We will be looking at how the energy agenda this now re-shaping.
This is an open meeting, please feel free to pass this invite along.
NATIONAL TRANSPLANT WEEK 4th –10th JULY
This year’s National Transplant Week runs between 4th and 10th July. NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) are calling on the public to reduce the waiting times for a transplant by signing up to the NHS Organ Donor Register.
You can do this online via http://www.transplantweek.co.uk/ . This website also has an online supporters toolkit to download, plus a nationwide survey.
There are currently 10,000 people in the UK waiting for a transplant. 96% of us would take an organ if we needed one but only 29% of the population are on the Organ Donor Register. Over 700 in the Midlands area are waiting for a donor transplant.
You can do this online via http://www.transplantweek.co.uk/ . This website also has an online supporters toolkit to download, plus a nationwide survey.
There are currently 10,000 people in the UK waiting for a transplant. 96% of us would take an organ if we needed one but only 29% of the population are on the Organ Donor Register. Over 700 in the Midlands area are waiting for a donor transplant.
Staffordshire and West Midlands Probation Trust against hate crime
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| (L-R) Dr Alan Harrison Trust Chair and Mike Maiden, Chief Executive with the pledge |
SWM Probation Chief Executive Mike Maiden says:
People with a learning disability have the right to justice, to feel safe and to live free from fear. We work closely with Staffordshire Police and West Midlands Police to fight against disability hate crime in our region.
Tony Johnson of Mencap west, says:
When hate crime takes hold with serious and even tragic consequences it stops people living ordinary lives. It shuts people out from communities and the community is poorer as a result. As a community, our attitudes and actions have to change. We have to stand by people with a learning disability and together ensure that nobody has to go on living in fear.
The public can show their support for the Stand by me campaign by signing up at
www.mencap.org.uk/standbyme
Titans of Cricket - Birmingham NIA
FREDDIE FLINTOFF RETURNS TO THE WORLD OF SPORT
Titans of Cricket takes the best of Twenty20, the IPL and world cricket and puts it ALL UNDER ONE ROOF, in a two hour spectacular of batting, fielding, and bowling. This is the first arena based cricket event of its kind and it will bring together the world’s greatest cricketers, both past and present.
Four teams - ENGLAND, INDIA, PAKISTAN, AUSTRALIA - will face the ultimate test of cricketing skills and battle it out in the Titans' Arena. Taking up the challenge are Freddie Flintoff and his England stars, David Boon's Australian legends, Virender Sehwag and World Champions India, and The King of Swing Wasim Akram with his Pakistani greats.
The event will rekindle two of the most passionate rivalries in cricket as Ashes legend Freddie Flintoff leads his all star English team against Australian Cult Hero David Boon. Plus, the 2011 World Cup Winner Virender Sehwag fronts the Indian effort against 1992 World Cup Winner, The King of Swing, Wasim Akram. Taking place at Birmingham’s NIA, one of the busiest large scale indoor sporting and entertainment venues in Europe, Titans of Cricket will feature a toxic mix of skills, music, fun and entertainment. The NIA has hosted more than thirty different sports over the last twenty years and Titans of Cricket is proud to add to this sporting legacy with the likes of Shahid Afridi, Paul Collingwood, Adam Gilchrist, Marcus Trescothick and many many more, all showcasing their skills inside this perfect home of indoor sport. It promises to be one of the greatest collections of cricketing talent ever assembled under one roof.
Jimmy Adams, ex West Indies Captain and Titans of Cricket, Technical Director said:
“We have developed these games to ensure that the crowd will experience the maximum entertainment possible. They are designed to showcase such attributes as who has the best reflexes, who hits the hardest, who has the best arm. These games will allow cricket fans to see the type of performances that until now could only be witnessed during top class training sessions, when international players are pushing themselves to the limits. For the first time we will let the public see just how great these players really are. I really believe the crowd could see something very, very special come October.”
Nick Wells, Director of Titans of Sport, the company behind the event said:
“We are really excited about this event, and hope the cricket loving public will be as well. We have worked very hard to provide, what will be a fantastically entertaining day for all the family at three of the greatest arenas in the world. Without doubt the public will be able to see these world stars like they have never seen them before.”
TITANS OF CRICKET comes to Birmingham’s NIA on Wednesday 5th October 2011 and tickets are on-sale now priced at £28, £48 & £60 for Adults and £20 for children (aged 16 years and under), available from The Ticket Factory http://www.theticketfactory.com/ or 0844 338 8000.. VIP tickets are available priced from £150. TITANS OF CRICKET, the next world wide cricket phenomenon, comes to Birmingham’s NIA on Wednesday 5th October 2011.
Titans of Cricket takes the best of Twenty20, the IPL and world cricket and puts it ALL UNDER ONE ROOF, in a two hour spectacular of batting, fielding, and bowling. This is the first arena based cricket event of its kind and it will bring together the world’s greatest cricketers, both past and present.
Four teams - ENGLAND, INDIA, PAKISTAN, AUSTRALIA - will face the ultimate test of cricketing skills and battle it out in the Titans' Arena. Taking up the challenge are Freddie Flintoff and his England stars, David Boon's Australian legends, Virender Sehwag and World Champions India, and The King of Swing Wasim Akram with his Pakistani greats.
The event will rekindle two of the most passionate rivalries in cricket as Ashes legend Freddie Flintoff leads his all star English team against Australian Cult Hero David Boon. Plus, the 2011 World Cup Winner Virender Sehwag fronts the Indian effort against 1992 World Cup Winner, The King of Swing, Wasim Akram. Taking place at Birmingham’s NIA, one of the busiest large scale indoor sporting and entertainment venues in Europe, Titans of Cricket will feature a toxic mix of skills, music, fun and entertainment. The NIA has hosted more than thirty different sports over the last twenty years and Titans of Cricket is proud to add to this sporting legacy with the likes of Shahid Afridi, Paul Collingwood, Adam Gilchrist, Marcus Trescothick and many many more, all showcasing their skills inside this perfect home of indoor sport. It promises to be one of the greatest collections of cricketing talent ever assembled under one roof.
Jimmy Adams, ex West Indies Captain and Titans of Cricket, Technical Director said:
“We have developed these games to ensure that the crowd will experience the maximum entertainment possible. They are designed to showcase such attributes as who has the best reflexes, who hits the hardest, who has the best arm. These games will allow cricket fans to see the type of performances that until now could only be witnessed during top class training sessions, when international players are pushing themselves to the limits. For the first time we will let the public see just how great these players really are. I really believe the crowd could see something very, very special come October.”
Nick Wells, Director of Titans of Sport, the company behind the event said:
“We are really excited about this event, and hope the cricket loving public will be as well. We have worked very hard to provide, what will be a fantastically entertaining day for all the family at three of the greatest arenas in the world. Without doubt the public will be able to see these world stars like they have never seen them before.”
TITANS OF CRICKET comes to Birmingham’s NIA on Wednesday 5th October 2011 and tickets are on-sale now priced at £28, £48 & £60 for Adults and £20 for children (aged 16 years and under), available from The Ticket Factory http://www.theticketfactory.com/ or 0844 338 8000.. VIP tickets are available priced from £150. TITANS OF CRICKET, the next world wide cricket phenomenon, comes to Birmingham’s NIA on Wednesday 5th October 2011.
Cirque du Soleil – Alegría
18 – 22 April 2012
NIA, Birmingham
Tickets for Alegria go on sale at 9am on Thursday 30 June.
Tickets are priced at £50 (subject to booking and transaction fees)
The Ticket Factory: http://www.theticketfactory.com/ or 0844 338 8000
Cirque du Soleil, the multi-faceted international creative force, will debut its critically-acclaimed production Alegría in UK arenas for the very first time next year, visiting Birmingham’s NIA in April 2012.
Alegría is a classic Cirque du Soleil production that has received international acclaim and wowed over 10 million people worldwide since it premiered in 1994 in Montreal. Alegría is a Spanish word that means happiness, joy and jubilation and features an international cast of 55 performers and musicians from 17 countries and showcases breathtaking acrobatics.
Phil Bowdery, President of Touring for Live Nation said:
“Cirque du Soleil is a global phenomenon and Alegría is regarded as a jewel in the crown. It’s the ultimate in live entertainment and we’re thrilled to have it tour in UK arenas.”
The spectacular 2½ hour production showcases gravity-defying acrobatics which will dazzle and astound audiences of all ages. Fans will hold their breath as the skill and poise of the world-renowned performers are put to the test with dramatic acrobatics such as the intense and high-energy Aerial High Bars in which daring aerialists fly to catchers swinging more than 40 feet above the stage.
In the rhythmic and dangerous Fire-Knife Dance, artists manipulate flaming knives around their bodies, while Power Track showcases a brilliant display of synchronized choreography and tumbling on a trampoline system magically concealed under the stage floor. In Russian Bars, artists fly through the air and perform spectacular somersaults and mid-air turns, landing on bars perched on the sturdy shoulders of catchers.
Cirque du Soleil has dazzled and amazed almost 100 million people in 300 cities across five continents since its humble beginnings in Quebec in 1984, and its return to the UK in 2012 is set to be one of the entertainment highlights of the year. Cirque du Soleil has visited Birmingham previously with Delirium in 2007/08, Quidam in 2009 and Saltimbanco in 2010.
Alegría comes to Birmingham’s NIA 18 – 22 April 2012, tickets are priced at £50 (plus booking and transaction fees) and go on-sale at 9am on Thursday 30 June 2011. Available from The Ticket Factory: http://www.theticketfactory.com/ or 0844 338 8000.
BIRMINGHAM HIPPODROME PRESENTS OUTDOOR THEATRE ON THE STREET OF BIRMINGHAM
· Birmingham Hippodrome brings the best of outdoor theatre to the streets of Birmingham
· All for FREE!
· http://www.sixsummersaturdays.com/
Following last year’s success, Birmingham Hippodrome is delighted to announce the return of SIX SUMMER SATURDAYS bringing the very best of outdoor theatre to Birmingham city centre from Saturday 9 July to Saturday 13 August. And it’s all for FREE.
Six Summer Saturdays kicks off on 9 July with a host of interactive musical sculptures and energetic sounds in partnership with Birmingham Jazz Festival. And from 22-24 July, just one year before the start of the Olympic Games, Six Summer Saturdays forms part of the London 2012 Open Weekend when No Fit State Circus arrive with trampolines, tight ropes, juggling and much more.
Featuring a host of wonderful live performances across the city, Six Summer Saturdays highlights include: snow ball fights in the middle of summer; the world’s smallest mobile theatre; a special interactive game on Victoria Square’s BBC Big Screen; late night waltzes with inflatable lobsters; a Festival of Fudge; revolving six foot tall paintings; giant balloons; a dazzling ping pong tournament; furry feline characters and amazing aerial theatre.
Sarah Allen, Birmingham Hippodrome’s Creative Programme manager said:
“We are very excited to be bringing Six Summer Saturdays to the streets of Birmingham once again. If people are just shopping or eating al fresco they will be able to enjoy some very exciting performances in locations such as Brindleyplace, Chamberlain Square and outside the Hippodrome. And, if people are feeling more energetic, they can plan their day so that they enjoy a whole range of FREE performances across the city.
This year’s season is Feel Good Fridays, with performances in and around Colmore Business District, providing people with the chance to warm up for the weekend whilst on their lunch break or leaving work.”
Gary Cardin, Colmore Business District Chair said:
“Colmore Business District is delighted to welcome exciting, interactive and entertaining performances to the heart of Birmingham’s business community. These acts will be light-hearted and compelling showpieces for employees and visitors to enjoy, transforming lunchtimes and bringing arts and culture to our streets and open spaces.”
SIX SUMMER SATURDAYS runs from Saturday 9 July to Saturday 13 August and takes place in public spaces across the city including Birmingham Hippodrome piazza, Arcadian Centre, Chamberlain Square, Victoria Square, Cathedral Grounds, Colmore Square and Brindleyplace. All events are FREE. Full listings can be obtained from http://www.sixsummersaturdays.com/
Performances may be delayed or rescheduled in wet weather. Ask a Six Summer Saturdays steward for the latest updates or stay in touch via Twitter following @brumhippodrome and the hashtag #6summersats
SIX SUMMER SATURDAYS is supported by Arts Council England, SouthSide BID, Broad Street BID, Retail Birmingham and LCP Properties. Feel Good Fridays is in association with Colmore Business District.
Vidar's latest review - Merchant of Venice
Review of audio described performance of Merchant of Venice at the new RSC Theatre on the afternoon of Saturday 18 June 2011 – from Vidar Hjardeng.
Since its official opening earlier in the year I had really been looking forward to going to the completely new and much heralded, Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Whilst I had seen ‘The City Madam’ at the adjacent Swan Theatre earlier this month, it was wonderful to attend an audio-described performance of the 2011 production of Shakespeare’s masterpiece, dealing with the themes of prejudice and anti-Semitism, ‘The Merchant of Venice’ in the new auditorium on the afternoon of Saturday 18 June - and what a terrific production it was too! I shall certainly remember my first audio-described experience in the new RSC theatre, as it was one of the best productions I had seen in Stratford for some time - praise indeed as the standard is always extremely high.
Young people can often be a touch daunted by the thought of either studying a Shakespeare play at school, or even going to see said play performed on the stage, but in my view this fantastic interpretation – directed by Rupert Gould – would surely win over those who might feel that Shakespeare was not for them. This production transplanted the action from 16th century Venice to the glitzy, glamorous, and shallow, society of present day Las Vegas – a world of TV game shows, casinos and organised crime. As one of the audio-describers aptly put it in the ever helpful introductory notes - available either online or on CD by request - ‘Sometimes it feels as if Guys and Dolls has met the X Factor!’ Rupert Gould selected a number of well known American icons – Elvis Presley, Mike Tyson and Hollywood star, Reece Witherspoon – to feature as some of the play’s characters, ie Shylock’s servant Launcelot Gobbo; one the contestants, Morocco; and of course the heroine, Portia.
I can’t recommend highly enough having the time to digest the pre-show notes before arriving at the theatre, as well as taking advantage of the ‘live’ reprise 15 minutes before the start of the play – how else would I, and fellow visually impaired patrons, have known that the play opened on the gaming floor of an upmarket casino with croupiers, waiters and scantily clad showgirls, mingling with the punters. Later in the play, again thanks to these instructive background notes, I was prepared when the game show ’Destiny’ got under way and an ornate blue and gold sofa rose through a trap door in the centre of stage, on which ‘the prize’ Portia, and her maid Narissa were seated. We were also told about 2 large TV screens – each flanked by 4 smaller screens – suspended over the heads of the show’s presenters on which the images of the young women appeared simultaneously. As part of the game show, Portia’s suitors each chose a casket to open, hoping to find her portrait inside, and thereby win her hand in marriage.
In the famous courtroom scene, Carolyn Smith and Julia Grundy’s comprehensive notes painted a vivid picture of the unconventional backdrop where Shylock (superbly played by Sir Patrick Stewart) demanded his ‘pound of flesh’. Without their description I would have been blissfully unaware that the drama was unfolding in a butcher’s shop, complete with meat hooks hanging from a steel ring and animal carcasses piled up at the back of the room.
The chief feature of this audio-described performance’s touch tour was being able was going backstage to examine so many of the props and costumes and what also enhanced my first visit to the new theatre, was being greeted by many familiar front of house faces who handed out the headsets and large print or Braille cast lists
Amongst others of the RSC’s audio described shows in Stratford, will be Harold Pinter’s The Homecoming, on the afternoon of Saturday, 10 September, and details of how to book concessionary tickets, headsets and places on the touch tour, as well as other useful information can be found by ringing the box office on 0844 800 1110.
Since its official opening earlier in the year I had really been looking forward to going to the completely new and much heralded, Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Whilst I had seen ‘The City Madam’ at the adjacent Swan Theatre earlier this month, it was wonderful to attend an audio-described performance of the 2011 production of Shakespeare’s masterpiece, dealing with the themes of prejudice and anti-Semitism, ‘The Merchant of Venice’ in the new auditorium on the afternoon of Saturday 18 June - and what a terrific production it was too! I shall certainly remember my first audio-described experience in the new RSC theatre, as it was one of the best productions I had seen in Stratford for some time - praise indeed as the standard is always extremely high.
Young people can often be a touch daunted by the thought of either studying a Shakespeare play at school, or even going to see said play performed on the stage, but in my view this fantastic interpretation – directed by Rupert Gould – would surely win over those who might feel that Shakespeare was not for them. This production transplanted the action from 16th century Venice to the glitzy, glamorous, and shallow, society of present day Las Vegas – a world of TV game shows, casinos and organised crime. As one of the audio-describers aptly put it in the ever helpful introductory notes - available either online or on CD by request - ‘Sometimes it feels as if Guys and Dolls has met the X Factor!’ Rupert Gould selected a number of well known American icons – Elvis Presley, Mike Tyson and Hollywood star, Reece Witherspoon – to feature as some of the play’s characters, ie Shylock’s servant Launcelot Gobbo; one the contestants, Morocco; and of course the heroine, Portia.
I can’t recommend highly enough having the time to digest the pre-show notes before arriving at the theatre, as well as taking advantage of the ‘live’ reprise 15 minutes before the start of the play – how else would I, and fellow visually impaired patrons, have known that the play opened on the gaming floor of an upmarket casino with croupiers, waiters and scantily clad showgirls, mingling with the punters. Later in the play, again thanks to these instructive background notes, I was prepared when the game show ’Destiny’ got under way and an ornate blue and gold sofa rose through a trap door in the centre of stage, on which ‘the prize’ Portia, and her maid Narissa were seated. We were also told about 2 large TV screens – each flanked by 4 smaller screens – suspended over the heads of the show’s presenters on which the images of the young women appeared simultaneously. As part of the game show, Portia’s suitors each chose a casket to open, hoping to find her portrait inside, and thereby win her hand in marriage.
In the famous courtroom scene, Carolyn Smith and Julia Grundy’s comprehensive notes painted a vivid picture of the unconventional backdrop where Shylock (superbly played by Sir Patrick Stewart) demanded his ‘pound of flesh’. Without their description I would have been blissfully unaware that the drama was unfolding in a butcher’s shop, complete with meat hooks hanging from a steel ring and animal carcasses piled up at the back of the room.
The chief feature of this audio-described performance’s touch tour was being able was going backstage to examine so many of the props and costumes and what also enhanced my first visit to the new theatre, was being greeted by many familiar front of house faces who handed out the headsets and large print or Braille cast lists
Amongst others of the RSC’s audio described shows in Stratford, will be Harold Pinter’s The Homecoming, on the afternoon of Saturday, 10 September, and details of how to book concessionary tickets, headsets and places on the touch tour, as well as other useful information can be found by ringing the box office on 0844 800 1110.
Polesworth High School - "Prison No Way" Day.
From the North Warwickshire North Safer Neighbourhoods Team
A "Prison No Way" Day was held at Polesworth High School back in April. PC 1687 Paul Painter and PCSO 6098 Simeon Hodson were invited to the event along with representatives from Warwickshire Fire & Rescue Service, West Midlands Ambulance Service and prison officers.
A scenario was set up which portrayed three youths taking a car belonging to one of their parents, and which resulted in a fatal accident. The three youths acting in the scenario were students of Polesworth School and were very effective in portraying this very serious and sensitive subject.
All the representing emergency services got involved with the accident, which was watched by a large majority of the school's pupils and staff. The emergency services did a fantastic job making the scenario as life like as possible, with a running commentary by Andy Bates, from the Warwickshire Fire & Rescue Service, who explained how procedures had to be followed in order to preserve and protect life.
Following the life-like event the pupils were invited to discuss the scenario with the representatives from each of the emergency services, in a class room environment. PCSO 6098 Simeon Hodson said, "The day was a great success, with the pupils getting an in depth insight into the work of the emergency services, and also a look at what the consequences of making one wrong decision can lead to."
A "Prison No Way" Day was held at Polesworth High School back in April. PC 1687 Paul Painter and PCSO 6098 Simeon Hodson were invited to the event along with representatives from Warwickshire Fire & Rescue Service, West Midlands Ambulance Service and prison officers.
A scenario was set up which portrayed three youths taking a car belonging to one of their parents, and which resulted in a fatal accident. The three youths acting in the scenario were students of Polesworth School and were very effective in portraying this very serious and sensitive subject.
All the representing emergency services got involved with the accident, which was watched by a large majority of the school's pupils and staff. The emergency services did a fantastic job making the scenario as life like as possible, with a running commentary by Andy Bates, from the Warwickshire Fire & Rescue Service, who explained how procedures had to be followed in order to preserve and protect life.
Following the life-like event the pupils were invited to discuss the scenario with the representatives from each of the emergency services, in a class room environment. PCSO 6098 Simeon Hodson said, "The day was a great success, with the pupils getting an in depth insight into the work of the emergency services, and also a look at what the consequences of making one wrong decision can lead to."
BMW technician named West Midlands VQ Learner of the Year
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| Chris Hinton is congratulated by Minister of Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning, John Hayes MP |
The 22-year-old completed an apprenticeship at Birmingham Metropolitan College and is now studying an Electrical Engineering Systems Degree with Aston University . He is also a member of the Education and Skills Panel for Engineering UK where he has a proactive role advising and informing the panel of ways to widen engineering industry opportunities among young people.
The VQ Learner of the Year Awards were part of VQ Day, a national celebration of the people who gain vocational qualifications. VQ Day aims to raise awareness about the benefits of vocational qualifications and training and recognises the role that vocational learning plays in society and in the UK economy.
“As a former apprentice and vocational learner who carried on training, I was delighted to be named VQ regional winner,” commented Chris from Walsall .
“The awards represent just a fraction of the millions of learners who benefit from apprenticeship schemes and vocational training in order to achieve their career goals, so I feel privileged to have received this recognition.”
Peter Mitchell, interim CEO at independent education foundation Edge and a member of the judging panel, added: “We are delighted to be able to reward Chris for his outstanding achievements on his course. There are many paths to success and we hope that by recognising those who have used their vocational qualification to achieve their goals, more people will become open to the very real benefits of vocational study.”
Colleges, learning providers and employers around the country nominated their high-flying vocational students for the VQ Learner of the Year Awards, recognising their achievements and celebrating their success.
Nearly 200 learners were nominated in total, with nominations judged by a panel comprising of representatives from Edge, the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, the Association of Colleges and Westminster Kingsway College .
BMW Plant Hams Hall will be opening its doors to careers advisors on 29 June as part of a joint Government-industry drive to showcase careers in manufacturing and promote the opportunities available for future apprentices. For further information, contact Lucy Healey on 01675 460635.
For more information about VQ Day and the VQ Learner of the Year Awards, please visit http://www.vqday.org.uk/.
Out of the Dark Ages: Stafford’s Anglo-Saxon Origins
Starting on Tuesday 28 June, 2011 at Ancient High House, Greengate Street, Stafford.
Exhibition entitled: Out of the Dark Ages: Stafford’s Anglo-Saxon Origins
From Tuesday 28 June – 1 October
10am – 4pm
The Ancient High House, Stafford
Out of the Dark Ages: Stafford’s Anglo-Saxon Origins.
A unique opportunity to get close-up to Stafford’s Dark Age roots at the borough council run ‘High House’ in the town’s Greengate Street.
A selection of rare treasures have been brought together to help reveal the emergence of the ancient kingdom of Mercia and the origins of Anglo-Saxon Stafford.
In support of Professor Martin Carver’s book: Birth of a Borough,’ based on over four decades of archaeological research in the county town.
The exhibition includes many Anglo-Saxon artefacts discovered in Stafford, including a range of Stafford-ware pottery and coins from the town’s Saxon Mint. Also on view for the first time ever in Stafford is the unique seventh century gold pendant unearthed in 2005 – on special loan from a private collection.
Free. Opening times: Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 4pm
Exhibition entitled: Out of the Dark Ages: Stafford’s Anglo-Saxon Origins
From Tuesday 28 June – 1 October
10am – 4pm
The Ancient High House, Stafford
Out of the Dark Ages: Stafford’s Anglo-Saxon Origins.
A unique opportunity to get close-up to Stafford’s Dark Age roots at the borough council run ‘High House’ in the town’s Greengate Street.
A selection of rare treasures have been brought together to help reveal the emergence of the ancient kingdom of Mercia and the origins of Anglo-Saxon Stafford.
In support of Professor Martin Carver’s book: Birth of a Borough,’ based on over four decades of archaeological research in the county town.
The exhibition includes many Anglo-Saxon artefacts discovered in Stafford, including a range of Stafford-ware pottery and coins from the town’s Saxon Mint. Also on view for the first time ever in Stafford is the unique seventh century gold pendant unearthed in 2005 – on special loan from a private collection.
Free. Opening times: Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 4pm
Monday, 27 June 2011
Simmer Down - International Reggae Festival
The eagerly awaited Simmer Down festival is back and promises to be bigger and better than last year! Showcasing a range of local and international Reggae artists representing Birmingham’s diverse communities, foods stalls from all around the world, dance activities, arts and education workshops there is something for everyone at the Simmer Down Festival.
So save the date, and join us for an unforgettable Saturday in Handsworth park.
Building the West Midlands’ low carbon economy
“Houses that sweat, chimneys that soak up heat, and solar power systems for cloudy climates - as the housing industry gets back on its feet, there are terrific opportunities in green technology,” says Michael Overduin, the CEO of Science Capital.
An exciting event in Birmingham brought together industry leaders, SMEs, academics and investors in a bid to strengthen links and drive growth in the housing sector. Their focus on working together to build a green deal contrasts sharply with the UN climate change talks in Bonn that end today with little agreement on extending the Kyoto Protocol.
Speakers at last the meeting included representatives of local firms who highlighted the opportunities for the region in supplying the UK’s £15 billion housing retrofit needs. There are 26 million homes that must be improved if we are to hit our national energy efficiency targets.
Richard Brooks from sponsors Anthony Collins Solicitors set out a challenge to deliver the low carbon economy whilst meeting the needs of local communities hit by fuel poverty or long term unemployment by offering targeted training and job opportunities.
Chris Handy showed terraced homes that “put money in people’s pockets”. These houses process their own waste and are entirely carbon neutral. Chris is Chief Executive of the Accord Group, which is opening a new factory in Walsall to manufacture low carbon timber homes.
Malcolm McIntosh, who directs the Asia Pacific Centre for Sustainable, argued that we need to “remove perverse subsidies for polluting industries”. The future, he says, requires “an engaged democracy and real leadership”.
Matthew Rhodes, managing director of Warwickshire-based Encraft, demonstrated how small companies are best suited to deliver large scale change. Like his own 30-strong team, they can engage local skills and work alongside homeowners in deciding the most suitable improvements.
Lubo Jankovic from Birmingham City University gave a fascinating insight into Birmingham’s first Zero Carbon house. This 4-bed house with studio loft in Balsall Heath generates more energy than it uses, even throughout this recent harsh winter. He believes the key to unlocking the market lies in education of more zero carbon designers, as the economics and technology already make sense.
Six companies also presented their new technologies to a panel of Birmingham’s top legal and investment firms including Midven, Beer & Partners, Mercia Fund and Advantage Business Angels.
· Paul Chadwick, director of Ergohome, presented hi-tech prefabricated houses that are suitable for any climate or location. They are ready to be rolled out nationally, today.
· N. Leon Jacob, director of Abacus Solar, talked about his new composite solar panels that increase thermal output by four times, thereby significantly boosting energy gains.
· Piers Cave, director of Eco Answers, showed a raised loft flooring system. It is very quick and easy to install, works in virtually any loft, and greatly reduces heat loss.
· Mark Thompson at AceOn Solar is developing portable energy products including solar modules and power systems. He argued for the need to assemble locally to meet the growing global market.
· Sean Derrig from Chemex is introducing friendly bacteria into frontline emergency medicine services, hotels and restaurants. These provide cleaner and safer working environments.
· Thomas Lipinski, chief technology officer of Green Structures, showed a heat recovery system that fits in a chimney stack and ‘skins’ for adaptive houses that absorb energy or sweat heat depending on environmental conditions.
Together these technologies provide an exciting range of opportunities for business growth with commitment for local government, industry and universities to work together to help local SMEs flourish.
The Science Capital event at Hotel du Vin on June 15, 2011 was organised by Professor Michael Overduin.
An exciting event in Birmingham brought together industry leaders, SMEs, academics and investors in a bid to strengthen links and drive growth in the housing sector. Their focus on working together to build a green deal contrasts sharply with the UN climate change talks in Bonn that end today with little agreement on extending the Kyoto Protocol.
Speakers at last the meeting included representatives of local firms who highlighted the opportunities for the region in supplying the UK’s £15 billion housing retrofit needs. There are 26 million homes that must be improved if we are to hit our national energy efficiency targets.
Richard Brooks from sponsors Anthony Collins Solicitors set out a challenge to deliver the low carbon economy whilst meeting the needs of local communities hit by fuel poverty or long term unemployment by offering targeted training and job opportunities.
Chris Handy showed terraced homes that “put money in people’s pockets”. These houses process their own waste and are entirely carbon neutral. Chris is Chief Executive of the Accord Group, which is opening a new factory in Walsall to manufacture low carbon timber homes.
Malcolm McIntosh, who directs the Asia Pacific Centre for Sustainable, argued that we need to “remove perverse subsidies for polluting industries”. The future, he says, requires “an engaged democracy and real leadership”.
Matthew Rhodes, managing director of Warwickshire-based Encraft, demonstrated how small companies are best suited to deliver large scale change. Like his own 30-strong team, they can engage local skills and work alongside homeowners in deciding the most suitable improvements.
Lubo Jankovic from Birmingham City University gave a fascinating insight into Birmingham’s first Zero Carbon house. This 4-bed house with studio loft in Balsall Heath generates more energy than it uses, even throughout this recent harsh winter. He believes the key to unlocking the market lies in education of more zero carbon designers, as the economics and technology already make sense.
Six companies also presented their new technologies to a panel of Birmingham’s top legal and investment firms including Midven, Beer & Partners, Mercia Fund and Advantage Business Angels.
· Paul Chadwick, director of Ergohome, presented hi-tech prefabricated houses that are suitable for any climate or location. They are ready to be rolled out nationally, today.
· N. Leon Jacob, director of Abacus Solar, talked about his new composite solar panels that increase thermal output by four times, thereby significantly boosting energy gains.
· Piers Cave, director of Eco Answers, showed a raised loft flooring system. It is very quick and easy to install, works in virtually any loft, and greatly reduces heat loss.
· Mark Thompson at AceOn Solar is developing portable energy products including solar modules and power systems. He argued for the need to assemble locally to meet the growing global market.
· Sean Derrig from Chemex is introducing friendly bacteria into frontline emergency medicine services, hotels and restaurants. These provide cleaner and safer working environments.
· Thomas Lipinski, chief technology officer of Green Structures, showed a heat recovery system that fits in a chimney stack and ‘skins’ for adaptive houses that absorb energy or sweat heat depending on environmental conditions.
Together these technologies provide an exciting range of opportunities for business growth with commitment for local government, industry and universities to work together to help local SMEs flourish.
The Science Capital event at Hotel du Vin on June 15, 2011 was organised by Professor Michael Overduin.
Decision Made!
Birmingham City Council come clean on plans for the Martineau Centre
Residents of the Beech Lanes area of Birmingham, which lies in the Quinton ward on the border with Harborne, have been left feeling shocked and very angry after learning that Birmingham City Council’s plans to sell off a much loved local community facility are at an advanced stage, in spite of assurances to the contrary for many months from senior officers and councillors.
Local people who live close to the Martineau Centre on Balden Road, a former school building donated by the Martineau Trust to the Council which has been used for a combination of training, conference and community activities for the past 20 years, were alerted to the possibility of the centre’s closure and demolition over 5 years ago but council officials have continuously and persistently refuted the suggestion that such a plan was being put into action.
Some concerned residents and centre users even set up their own campaign group in 2009 called The Martineau Ten, made up of local people who feel that decisions were being made about the historic building without proper consultation with stake holders such as service users, local citizens or centre staff. But group members say their concerns have been continually dismissed by local councillors, with the response “no decision has been made about the future of the Martineau Centre”.
In spite of public denials and reassurances from councillors and senior officers, it became obvious to local people that the writing was on the wall for the Martineau Centre when the building was allowed to go into disrepair. In 2007 a child-friendly learner-sized swimming pool in the centre was left permanently out of commission following the collapse of roof sections in the middle of the night – just one example of what locals describe as a wilful catalogue of neglect in preparation for its sale and demolition.
In a shock development in June, local people attending a Ward Committee Meeting in the area learnt that a decision was made last year that the building was surplus to requirements as an office and that the survey and valuation company DTZ Birmingham were appointed in summer 2010 to evaluate its sale. Locals have now been told verbally that a report has been prepared by DTZ without their involvement for a new housing development and a speedy consultation period is now likely to be rushed through in order to rubber stamp the Council’s own planning permission requirements.
Local resident and parent Pete Millington, a member of The Martineau Ten group, whose children enjoyed using facilities at the centre for football training and swimming lessons, said:
“What annoys us is that until now our elected representatives in the area have not been transparent with us about the future of this excellent community amenity. It’s a great place, it’s in good shape structurally and is largely accessible, I have organised conferences and charity events there in the past myself and five years ago it was a thriving community hub. We have many unanswered questions. Why for instance wasn’t Martineau considered for the relocation of the fitness gymnasium following the closure of Harborne Baths? There’s a purpose built gymnasium at Martineau but instead the fitness equipment was all squeezed into the Quinborne community centre against the wishes of many regular service users there.”
“More recently the Martineau Centre could have been used as temporary accommodation for pupils from Harborne primary school following the dreadful roof fire. But rather than using this purpose built school building that actually belongs to the Council, we understand pupils have been relocated to an expensive and privately administered conference centre. Junior and infant school places are in short supply in the area anyway, so this was an ideal opportunity to develop Martineau”.
“But in spite of the evidence of our own eyes, all we’ve heard for the past two years are repeated platitudes, their very own words being “no decision has been made yet about the future of the Martineau Centre”. The viewpoints of ordinary citizens are clearly an inconvenience to the Council and we’re now being drip fed what was obvious to staff at the centre and ourselves all along, the historic Martineau Centre is threatened with being bulldozed. As usual our politicians seem to know the cost of everything and the value of nothing”.
David Grainger, who is chairman of the Beech Lanes Neighbourhood Forum, has written to the newly elected Quinton councillor Matthew Gregson expressing local concerns. He said:
“I was extremely concerned that a decision made last year was not communicated to interested parties. As you know the Martineau Centre is situated in the area covered by the Beech Lanes Neighbourhood Forum and therefore its future is of concern to us”
Mr Grainger has requested that the City Council convene a public meeting at the Martineau Centre so that a full presentation of the DTZ proposals can be discussed. He has also requested an extension of the period of public consultation so that local people can more fully digest and comment on the proposals and requested that the City Council has regard to the provisions of the Localism Bill currently before Parliament concerning neighbourhood involvement.
Rwth Hunt, another member of the Martineau 10 group added:
“This is a disgracefully procrastinated admission which only became public after a number of petitions from the local community led to a newly elected councillor, Matthew Gregson, making enquiries and being invited to give a verbal update at the Ward Meeting. Senior officers and councillors have been denying that any such plan existed for over eighteen months. We are disappointed though not surprised at Birmingham City Council’s determination to avoid involving local people in their own communities”.
Further clarification on the plans for the Martineau Centre was provided by three councillors for the Quinton ward, John Clancy, Peter Smallbone and Matthew Gregson at the June meeting of the Beech Lanes Neighbourhood Forum. The councillors said that decisions about the future of the Martineau Centre have been made by Birmingham’s council cabinet and that other parties were kept in the dark until certain council staff were informed in February 2011.
The councillors also confirmed that DTZ were appointed by the cabinet last summer to carry out the feasibility study and have considered several options for the site, including a hotel, but are recommending the building of 170 new houses including up to 5 executive type houses. DTZ are hoping to make their scheme available for public consultation on the 6th July.
At the meeting Councillor Clancy said that DTZ should not be given the go-ahead for their public consultation on the specific housing scheme until a proper and legal public consultation is carried out on what local people would like to be done with the campus. Mr Clancy suggested that there should be a 6 month delay by DTZ. All three councillors at the meeting expressed sympathy for the option that the Martineau Centre be protected for community use.
After the meeting, local resident and retired architect Alun Evans, who was a founder member of The Martineau Ten group, said:
“It will be interesting to learn what DTZ are proposing and whether there is a multi-use option somewhere between housing and community use. We are skeptical about whether DTZ will fully acknowledge the strong heritage value of the buildings. Our own conclusion is that the Council’s cabinet are trying to rush this through without proper consultation because they have run out of money. At the root of the Council's problem is its commitment to so many capital projects such as the new Library, New Street Station alterations, improvements to the Art Gallery and other projects, whilst the monies provided by the Government are being cut back drastically. They are having to sell off assets in the suburbs, including many of Birmingham’s heritage buildings, in order to cover the debt”.
Further information:
The Martineau Ten is a group of local residents based in the Beech Lanes area in the Quinton ward of Birmingham, on the border with Harborne.
The group came together to raise concerns about Birmingham City Council’s plans to sell off a local heritage building, the Martineau Centre and to challenge the lack of community involvement and perceived secrecy and double-speak which typifies the tactics of local authorities in financial crisis.
The Martineau Ten promote community values such as local consultation, respect for heritage and community ownership of assets. The group puts high value on the great traditions of Birmingham as a city built by artisans and public spirited leaders such as Joseph Chamberlain.
"We need to recapture the heart of the City, not just tread water but swim to the higher moral ground where we belong and from where we have derived our success as a City”.
Contact information:
Visit our website at:
http://www.yourmartineaucampus.co.uk/
Reply to us by email:
Pete Millington at spaghetti.editorial@yahoo.com
Or telephone
Rwth Hunt on 0121 429 8285
Residents of the Beech Lanes area of Birmingham, which lies in the Quinton ward on the border with Harborne, have been left feeling shocked and very angry after learning that Birmingham City Council’s plans to sell off a much loved local community facility are at an advanced stage, in spite of assurances to the contrary for many months from senior officers and councillors.
Local people who live close to the Martineau Centre on Balden Road, a former school building donated by the Martineau Trust to the Council which has been used for a combination of training, conference and community activities for the past 20 years, were alerted to the possibility of the centre’s closure and demolition over 5 years ago but council officials have continuously and persistently refuted the suggestion that such a plan was being put into action.
Some concerned residents and centre users even set up their own campaign group in 2009 called The Martineau Ten, made up of local people who feel that decisions were being made about the historic building without proper consultation with stake holders such as service users, local citizens or centre staff. But group members say their concerns have been continually dismissed by local councillors, with the response “no decision has been made about the future of the Martineau Centre”.
In spite of public denials and reassurances from councillors and senior officers, it became obvious to local people that the writing was on the wall for the Martineau Centre when the building was allowed to go into disrepair. In 2007 a child-friendly learner-sized swimming pool in the centre was left permanently out of commission following the collapse of roof sections in the middle of the night – just one example of what locals describe as a wilful catalogue of neglect in preparation for its sale and demolition.
In a shock development in June, local people attending a Ward Committee Meeting in the area learnt that a decision was made last year that the building was surplus to requirements as an office and that the survey and valuation company DTZ Birmingham were appointed in summer 2010 to evaluate its sale. Locals have now been told verbally that a report has been prepared by DTZ without their involvement for a new housing development and a speedy consultation period is now likely to be rushed through in order to rubber stamp the Council’s own planning permission requirements.
Local resident and parent Pete Millington, a member of The Martineau Ten group, whose children enjoyed using facilities at the centre for football training and swimming lessons, said:
“What annoys us is that until now our elected representatives in the area have not been transparent with us about the future of this excellent community amenity. It’s a great place, it’s in good shape structurally and is largely accessible, I have organised conferences and charity events there in the past myself and five years ago it was a thriving community hub. We have many unanswered questions. Why for instance wasn’t Martineau considered for the relocation of the fitness gymnasium following the closure of Harborne Baths? There’s a purpose built gymnasium at Martineau but instead the fitness equipment was all squeezed into the Quinborne community centre against the wishes of many regular service users there.”
“More recently the Martineau Centre could have been used as temporary accommodation for pupils from Harborne primary school following the dreadful roof fire. But rather than using this purpose built school building that actually belongs to the Council, we understand pupils have been relocated to an expensive and privately administered conference centre. Junior and infant school places are in short supply in the area anyway, so this was an ideal opportunity to develop Martineau”.
“But in spite of the evidence of our own eyes, all we’ve heard for the past two years are repeated platitudes, their very own words being “no decision has been made yet about the future of the Martineau Centre”. The viewpoints of ordinary citizens are clearly an inconvenience to the Council and we’re now being drip fed what was obvious to staff at the centre and ourselves all along, the historic Martineau Centre is threatened with being bulldozed. As usual our politicians seem to know the cost of everything and the value of nothing”.
David Grainger, who is chairman of the Beech Lanes Neighbourhood Forum, has written to the newly elected Quinton councillor Matthew Gregson expressing local concerns. He said:
“I was extremely concerned that a decision made last year was not communicated to interested parties. As you know the Martineau Centre is situated in the area covered by the Beech Lanes Neighbourhood Forum and therefore its future is of concern to us”
Mr Grainger has requested that the City Council convene a public meeting at the Martineau Centre so that a full presentation of the DTZ proposals can be discussed. He has also requested an extension of the period of public consultation so that local people can more fully digest and comment on the proposals and requested that the City Council has regard to the provisions of the Localism Bill currently before Parliament concerning neighbourhood involvement.
Rwth Hunt, another member of the Martineau 10 group added:
“This is a disgracefully procrastinated admission which only became public after a number of petitions from the local community led to a newly elected councillor, Matthew Gregson, making enquiries and being invited to give a verbal update at the Ward Meeting. Senior officers and councillors have been denying that any such plan existed for over eighteen months. We are disappointed though not surprised at Birmingham City Council’s determination to avoid involving local people in their own communities”.
Further clarification on the plans for the Martineau Centre was provided by three councillors for the Quinton ward, John Clancy, Peter Smallbone and Matthew Gregson at the June meeting of the Beech Lanes Neighbourhood Forum. The councillors said that decisions about the future of the Martineau Centre have been made by Birmingham’s council cabinet and that other parties were kept in the dark until certain council staff were informed in February 2011.
The councillors also confirmed that DTZ were appointed by the cabinet last summer to carry out the feasibility study and have considered several options for the site, including a hotel, but are recommending the building of 170 new houses including up to 5 executive type houses. DTZ are hoping to make their scheme available for public consultation on the 6th July.
At the meeting Councillor Clancy said that DTZ should not be given the go-ahead for their public consultation on the specific housing scheme until a proper and legal public consultation is carried out on what local people would like to be done with the campus. Mr Clancy suggested that there should be a 6 month delay by DTZ. All three councillors at the meeting expressed sympathy for the option that the Martineau Centre be protected for community use.
After the meeting, local resident and retired architect Alun Evans, who was a founder member of The Martineau Ten group, said:
“It will be interesting to learn what DTZ are proposing and whether there is a multi-use option somewhere between housing and community use. We are skeptical about whether DTZ will fully acknowledge the strong heritage value of the buildings. Our own conclusion is that the Council’s cabinet are trying to rush this through without proper consultation because they have run out of money. At the root of the Council's problem is its commitment to so many capital projects such as the new Library, New Street Station alterations, improvements to the Art Gallery and other projects, whilst the monies provided by the Government are being cut back drastically. They are having to sell off assets in the suburbs, including many of Birmingham’s heritage buildings, in order to cover the debt”.
Further information:
The Martineau Ten is a group of local residents based in the Beech Lanes area in the Quinton ward of Birmingham, on the border with Harborne.
The group came together to raise concerns about Birmingham City Council’s plans to sell off a local heritage building, the Martineau Centre and to challenge the lack of community involvement and perceived secrecy and double-speak which typifies the tactics of local authorities in financial crisis.
The Martineau Ten promote community values such as local consultation, respect for heritage and community ownership of assets. The group puts high value on the great traditions of Birmingham as a city built by artisans and public spirited leaders such as Joseph Chamberlain.
"We need to recapture the heart of the City, not just tread water but swim to the higher moral ground where we belong and from where we have derived our success as a City”.
Contact information:
Visit our website at:
http://www.yourmartineaucampus.co.uk/
Reply to us by email:
Pete Millington at spaghetti.editorial@yahoo.com
Or telephone
Rwth Hunt on 0121 429 8285
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