The Creative Apprentice

The Improvisation Series

2010-08-20T17:44:00.000+01:00

Dance4’s Improvisation Series lands at Zoo Roxy, Edinburgh, on Monday 30 August with a special event simply called improvisation, featuring lead artist Rachel Krische and including Christine Devaney, Janis Claxton, Louise Tanoto, Filip van Huffel, Matthew Slater and Steven Martin, accompanied by gifted musicians Luke Sutherland and Jer Reid.

This event will be perfect for both novices and fringe veterans to end this year’s Fringe Festival with flair, originality and innovation. Whether this really is a zoo or a sanctuary, you’ll only find out by being there. Expect the unexpected!

Dance4 presents improvisation
Zoo Roxy (Sanctuary Space), Edinburgh Fringe Festival at 2pm
Tickets: £5 via 0131 662 6812

The “always exciting” (ballet.co.uk) award winning Rachel Krische leads the improvisation conversation which also features “rising Scottish star” (The Skinny) Janis Claxton, Christine Devaney who was winner of “The 2009 Scotsman Edinburgh Fringe First”, Louise Tanoto of the “edgy” (The Guardian) Tom Dale Company and Filip van Huffel, Matthew Slater and Steven Martin with all three of “athletic” (ballet.co.uk) Retina Dance Company. Such artists collaborating in a one-off experiment of movement is an opportunity that doesn’t come around very often and will be ideal for both the newcomer and dance connoisseur.

The event will also encompass the enthralling live sounds of the “magnetic” (The Scotsman) Luke Sutherland, of Lon Fin Killie, Bows and Mogwai fame, and Jer Reid who both are well known for their exciting collaborations with dance artists, so the performance will be a treat for both the eyes and ears.
In the ethos of presenting extraordinary 21st century dance we celebrate, with this event, the work of the festival’s leading dance venues; the award winning Zoo (this year running 3 venues including the Roxy) and artists of Catalyst Dance Management (from Dance Base, Scotland’s National Centre for Dance).

Dance4 presents improvisation: the perfect opportunity to witness incredible artists from across the Fringe programme and beyond collaborating in a unique event for the festival.

For further information contact Sarah by email / 0115 941 0773 / Box Office 0131 662 6892 / www.dance4.co.uk / www.zoofestival.co.uk

Universal!

2010-08-02T23:04:00.001+01:00

Gone, but not for long.
Holidays!
Wonderful. Nice. Beautiful.

Going to a city of extreeeme historical pride, it's odd to realise that promoters will still be promoters.

Riverside Festival this weekend, you down?

Seconds Out

2010-07-16T10:51:00.004+01:00

Newcastle
x
Cuba
x
Boxing
x
Dance
=
Tonight

More info=HERE

QUAKE

2010-07-09T15:56:00.000+01:00

A Pretty Rough guide to screen printing

2010-07-06T22:44:00.007+01:00

film courtesy of Andrew Bell

Today I went out to get a bunch of Stamping Ground t-shirts printed [Stamping Ground's summer starts this Saturday!]. So, I bought a bunch of blank vests and tees and hauled them over to get printed on.

Amid the t-shirt talk, I was reminded about a crazy cool t-shirt printing company me and a few friends started while we were in school. It was terrible and hilarious and filled with scissors and virtual trips to cheap wholesalers on the internet. It also marked the initial foray into customer/consumer interaction and consultation [obviously aside from my extremely important stint as a Saturday girl at a local cafe].

Going along the subject of the value and quality of creative and cultural products, that I touched upon yesterday following a session in college, it's important that what you present holds true integrity. As consumers [intellectual or physical], we have the right to fully scrutinise what we are investing in. And we should. The shame comes when people don't realise they have that right, or worse, when they choose to ignore it. You only live once, so you may as well strive to experience, seek out and appreciate quality.

You know, it's these cultural products and services that give dramatic value to society. Able to present ideas, interpretations and views of reality and the world around us, they challenge the stable and static views of humanity and interject a sense of wonder and fluidity, change and movement. They provide an abstract education that may not be achieved elsewhere and can garner a sense of community that perhaps transcends physical boundaries.

If only we had known how to properly construct our product and actually learn how to screen print. It would vastly reduce the amount of huge messed up t-shirts that occupy the bottom of my wardrobe.

NB: Pretty Rough are a design collective from Glasgow. If you want to know how screen printing works, then check out their nifty short film above.

And one more thing! For information on Stamping Ground visit www.dance4.co.uk/stampingground10.php. If you want to seek some quality work presented by the next generation, then get yourselves over. It should be fantastic! Dates include Eastwood Vibe, Riverside Festival and more... Click.

Jon Burgerman

2010-07-05T19:19:00.000+01:00

During my last visit to college we had to study the quality and value of cultural products and services.

We researched a couple of case studies ourselves following a group discussion about one practitioner. That practitioner was Jon Burgerman.

image courtesy of Jon Burgerman

A Nottingham-er born and [possibly] bred, Jon Burgerman is an illustrator whose clients include Sony, Science Museum, and he has recently released an iPhone application with ustwo called Inkstrumental. My tutor wasn't aware that he was from Nottingham, and was pleasantly surprised that he had picked someone from our backyard.

Talented man, find out more about Job Burgerman HERE.

Hetain Patel in TEN

2010-06-30T23:34:00.000+01:00

The Creators Project

2010-06-29T18:06:00.004+01:00

image courtesy of The Creators Projects

"The Creators Project is a new network dedicated to the celebration of creativity and culture across media, and around the world."

For those of you who liked the short film PIXELS by Patrick Jean that I posted earlier this month, you might be interested in venturing down to The London Creators Project Party next month. The event will feature a whole host of innovative short films, all presented alongside a myriad of other creative beasts.

Check. It. Out. HERE.

"The Creators Project is coming to London and bringing with it a celebratory assemblage of musicians, artists, designers, panelists and filmmakers. The festivities kick off 17 July and will feature live performances from Mark Ronson, Filthy Dukes, Kele Okereke, Trevor Jackson, Yuck and Hudson Mohawke among many others. Attendees will also get to experience exhibitions, film screenings, and multimedia installations including work from Spike Jonze, The Animal Collective, United Visual Artists."

It has begun...

2010-06-12T18:15:00.004+01:00

image courtesy of trendhunter

Find more world cup posters, created by ESPN and New York ad agency Wieden + Kennedy, HERE.
[If anything, promise me you will go on Wieden + Kennedy's website. It really is raaaaaad.]

Go England!

Regeneration

2010-06-11T19:29:00.001+01:00

Danielle LaPorte = some kind of mage.

Click HERE for inspiration on what to do when you feel like your energy's running away from you...

UK Young Artists Deadline

2010-06-03T07:12:00.000+01:00

Less than two weeks to apply!

For those of you who may not have addressed this blur of colour in your inbox...

image courtesy of UK Young Artists

Click on the image to see a larger version [where it is possible to actually read the text], or alternatively more info=HERE.

Your deadline to apply is Monday 14 June.
¿Comprende usted?

Chickenshed

2010-06-02T21:11:00.000+01:00

Friday evening. Off to the big smoke to see a piece from Chickenshed.

My friend Anthony is studying there, and I've not seen him perform since waaay back in the day. Ahh, the Performing Arts block...

"Chickenshed is a theatre company. We work using an inclusive creative process which means everyone is welcome, and everyone is valued. Not many places are for everyone and anyone - so a lot of people who find themselves unwelcome elsewhere in the world, come to us. Chickenshed runs Children's and Youth Theatre workshops for 600 people, education courses for over 100 students, community outreach projects and a network of satellite 'Sheds' across the country (and two in Russia) so even more can benefit. Every extraordinary piece of theatre created at Chickenshed shouts out the same thing: anyone can thrive in an environment where everyone is welcome. "

words courtesy of Chickshed

Aye, aye.

PIXELS

2010-06-01T11:53:00.002+01:00

film of PIXELS courtesy of Patrick Jean

Companhia de Dança Deborah Colker..

2010-05-26T22:23:00.000+01:00

...ARE COMING TO NOTTINGHAM TOMORROW.

film courtesy of Dance Consortium

Brazilian Companhia de Dança Deborah Colker will be hitting the wonderful city of Nottingham, performing on Friday and Saturday at Nottingham Playhouse, through Dance Consortium.

Once again, I'll be down at the theatre to witness all the action, and spend a few days shadowing their Co-Ordinator, their Interpreter, and how ever many members of the company there might be...

I'll post up thoughts/events/the meaning of life later.

More info=HERE.

Stereomood

2010-05-18T22:29:00.000+01:00

LINK=HERE

Muy interesante!

Ont Telly [#3]

2010-05-17T22:48:00.007+01:00

image courtesy of GIF Party

Yesterday, my Ma came running into my room.

"Sarah! You have to see this! You have to come downstairs! Schuman... That man.."
"What?"
"You know, the one who takes nice photographs... Of the people in nice clothes.. Sean?... He's on TV!"

She was talking about Scott Schuman, the creator of The Sartorialist... arguably one of the biggest style blogs around.

Earlier, she'd told me how she's started watching a programme on Sunday nights about great artists. She started telling me all about Matisse, how he's amazing, how he's influenced so many things, how the programme ends with a big shock, and how I need to watch it.

Anyway, this weeks Modern Masters episode was about Picasso and has Scott Schuman [among others] on it. If you have a spare hour, my Ma would heavily suggest you watch it.

LINK=HERE

The Modern Masters crew seem to have a whole host of things happening right now... Get clicking HERE.

5 Days in May

2010-05-06T17:49:00.007+01:00

5 Days in May at Southbank Centre

image courtesy of Southbank Centre

...goes on until Sunday. I'm going to have a little venture down tomorrow (leaving at insane o'clock). Should be immense.

Londoners! Get in!

That is all.

[EDIT]
It was good. This isn't a place for reviews.

Info for people I managed to see:
Rachid Ouramdane [France]
La Ribot [Spain]
Mathilde Monnier [France]
Matsune and Subal [Vienna and Japan]

Because I couldn't manage to find a definative link for Matsune and Subal, I'll leave you with a link to their Google page. So click on the picture. Lazy.

image courtesy of movementresearch

International Dance Festival Birmingham

2010-05-02T13:29:00.001+01:00

...has been happening for quite a few days now!

LINK=HERE

So, yesterday, a couple of us took a wee trip to witness the beauty of what Birmingham has to offer. [It obviously had nothing to do with the fact our friend, and general lovely, Mary Eddowes was celebrating her birthday and performing in one of the peices we saw...].

Here's what we saw:

Dancing The Waterways

image courtesy of IDFB

"A canal barge dance adventure travelling from Birmingham to Brewood and back again – performances, workshops, and lots of fun for all the family! Through movement and song, the piece celebrates the incredible engineering involved in the canal network’s construction, the canal builders themselves, and the architectures of bridges, locks and buildings interlinked to the rhythm of the waterways."

Utopia

image courtesy of IDFB

"Charged and vibrant, this folkloric celebration is a brand new commission for our 2010 Festival.

Directed by Arthur Pita, contemporary dancers will form a brand new dance company collective alongside Russian, Spanish, Indian and African folk dance groups, all moving to the turbo-folk Gypsy and Balkan beats of Birmingham’s very own band The Destroyers"

The festival closes up on May 15, so you've still got plenty of time to catch some goodness.

A Strategic Plan...

2010-04-25T20:53:00.003+01:00

image courtesy of Baltimore Print Studios

They've sold out on their first batch of 50 prints, but are re-printing due to popular demand. [woohoo!].

$20.00, shipping included.

E-mail them HERE to get your hands on one.

It's a winner!

Screenlit

2010-04-24T08:58:00.001+01:00

Nottingham is a very lucky city. Not only are we expanding in performing arts, music and the hefty live artists that seem to be spawning north to south, we now celebrate film, tv and writing with Screen Lit Festival.

It opened on Wednesday with Sam Bain and Jesse Armstrong, creators of Peep Show [ah! mi amor!] - a good start if ever I've seen one [although, unfortunately, I couldn't go..].

The festival includes a glorious host of things, which are aptly illustrated in the following:

Nice? I agree.

+ Screen Lit Festival

+ Broadway

+ Wednesday 21 - Thursday 29 April

60x60 Secs

2010-04-23T09:09:00.005+01:00

Earlier this week I ventured out into the abyss, wandered along the winding streets and landed in the unfamiliar dusty roads of India and Pakistan.

Actually that's a fib; I just went to Broadway to see a film. And, well, that's another fib, because what I really saw was 60 films. 60 films in 60 minutes.

'How can this be?' you ask. Surely you must be some kind of crazy, stabby youth who has gone delusional with all that sugar and caffeine*.

Well, really it's all down to Ali Zaider, Artistic Director of motiroti.

"60 films, 60 artists, 60 seconds... London based artist's initiative motiroti commissioned established and emerging artists from the South Asian diaspora to present their unique personal perspective on identity and home in an age of globalised cultures. Using the one-minute format, these films reflect on the complexities of hybrid identities and
the visible and invisible borders of nationhood."

You can read more about the wider context of 60x60 Secs at the 360degrees website, which explains the three year programme of cultural explorations led by motiroti.

An interesting watch; if you didn't make it, then I'm sure you'll get another opportunity, so look out for it! Ali is actually coming up to Nottingham on Thursday 6 May to discuss the film and the project at New Art Exchange.

Find out more about it at New Art Exchange or at Digital Broadway.

courtesy of motiroti [Who can spot Hetain Patel?]

*If you buy a filter coffee at Broadway, you get free re-fills. [Dangerous] Fact.

Cinematique

2010-04-22T21:43:00.001+01:00

Cinematique - trailer from Adrien Mondot

Via Dance4's Facebook

via Mat Trivett

via Adrien Mondot?

Immense.

BBC Blast

2010-04-21T08:29:00.002+01:00

image courtesy of BBC Blast

"The Blast tour is bringing three days of free creative workshops to local 13-19 year olds! Whether you’re into doodling or drama, film or fashion (or even making your own video mix to music) there’s something interesting for you. It’s first come first served, so get booking."

It's in Mansfield [hello!] until Saturday, so hurry up and get to it! There's a few spaces left for some of the free workshops that you have have have to book on to.

If only...

More info HERE.

Teux Deux

2010-04-15T09:33:00.003+01:00

If you've ever been on the Dance4 Blogger, you'll probably have an idea about the pure lust we all have for lists. Organisation is key, no?

With that in mind, I came across a link to this MEGA site called Teux Deux.

It's basically a online to-do application. Simple, clean, sleek, easy to use etcetcblahblahblah. And if you don't do something on the date you put it down for, it carries it over to the next day until you've done it! Magic!

Here's a video which explains it's awesomeness:

TeuxDeux Demo courtesy of TeuxDeux

Get on it.

Love What You Do

2010-04-14T23:21:00.003+01:00

images courtesy of Frank Chimero

This short series was created by Frank Chimero [again] from lecture called "Love What You Do" he did for Portland State University in Nov 2009.

Important stuff.

Bahok

2010-04-10T12:17:00.002+01:00

Akram Kahn's peice Bahok with National Ballet of China, is arriving in Derby next week. Why not join some of us?

Under-26ers [?] also have the chance to get free tickets for this performance as part of the A Night Less Ordinary initiative. Arts Council England and Metro have introduced this as a beeeeuat of a way to get younger people to experience the theatre for free! Excellent.

For a free ticket to see Bahok in Derby, just give Derby Live a call on 01332 255800.

See you there.

WISE

2010-04-01T10:14:00.004+01:00

"Well done is better than well said."

Words courtesy of Benjamin Franklin

Amnesty & LMHR

2010-03-31T10:07:00.004+01:00

This weekend sees a double act of fundaraising in the city. This site is by no means a platform for political thought [there's a time and a place], but it's always nice to see music used in such a way.

+ Amnesty International Fundraiser

+ Nottingham Arts Theatre

+ Saturday 03 April

+ 8.00pm

+ LoveMusicHateRacism

+ The Maze

+ Sunday 04 April

+ 8.00pm

And while my I.D. has been sent off to the DVLA, I'm sure if I'm allowed in, I'll see some of you down there...

Mr Penfold

2010-03-30T10:27:00.003+01:00

image courtesy of Mr Penfold/Subism

On Saturday afternoon [amid the MediaCampNottingham2 madness], I caught a bit of Mr Penfold's live show at Montana Shop, Nottingham. Based in Cambridge, he's been in Nottingham quite a few times, and I remember seeing some stuff at a previous Subism night last year. [N.B. For those who haven't experienced a Subism night, keep an eye out on Facebook. They'll be re-launching their website soon..]

"The paintings have strong linear elements. These are gracefully drawn outlines which work both with (and against) the ground. Much of the work features people he has observed in bars and pubs. He uses screenprints, woodcuts and etching to make his prints. This is a natural extension of the work he does in a professional printmaking studio where he works with many well known artists."

Prada at the Opera

2010-03-29T09:18:00.003+01:00

image courtesy of Ken Howard/Metropolitan Opera

A great post, re designers and their links with opera, theatre and ballet.

LINK=HERE

Summer starts here!

2010-03-28T08:20:00.003+01:00

So, FYI, according to the Summer Time Order 2002, British summer officially starts at

"...the period beginning at one o'clock, Greenwich Mean Time, in the morning of the last Sunday in March..."

words courtesy of The Summer Time Order 2002

MediaCampNottingham2

2010-03-27T09:42:00.005Z

This is happening all day today at Lace Market House, Nottingham. Completely free, completely saturated with information, and completely free. Sweet.

"MediaCampNottingham is a one day event for anyone wanting to share and expand their knowledge on digital media. For businesses, social enterprises and individuals who are curious about the digital phenomenon wanting to learn more.

The aim of the event is to share, explore, challenge and build understanding in digital media, look to future sustainability and understanding of how the Internet can be a valuable asset to everyone.

Veterans and new comers alike can learn about audio and video podcasting, blogging, web marketing, graphics, email campaigns, Second Life, Twitter and other social media tools."

words courtesy of MediaCampNottingham2

You need a ticket though, so hurry up if you want to snap up one of the remaining places...

For more info LINK=HERE

There Is Nothing Stopping You

2010-03-24T08:24:00.003Z

image courtesy of Frank Chimero

'Nuff said.

Fresnel... Flood..... Followspot..

2010-03-23T23:30:00.002Z

To give a wee college round up [I realise I haven't]: last month, I was learning the art of [basic] light rigging and light programming[!?] among other things at NCN, which was mega fun. Part of the course that is aligned with my work placement at Dance4 is really all about making sure I'm able to converse and understand the more technical language that is part of this industry. It makes sense that it helps for me to have a better understanding of the intricacies associated and part of arts events.

I also met the new Creative Apprentice, who is joining me. She's called Robyn, and is based at NCN, with her specialist strand focussed on Technical Theatre. It's pretty cool to have someone else in Notts doing this too, so I look forward to the rest of the year... we've already started to come up with future ideas of extra projects to do with our tutor.

Watch this space.

The White Project

2010-03-21T11:56:00.006Z

image courtesy of Nottingham Trent University

So on Thursday 11 March, I went down to Nottingham Contemporary to see a snippet of The White Project. Held by first year Fashion Design students from Nottingham Trent University, the collection they presented was completely white while having an open brief. Emma Prince, their Senior Lecturer said:

"We try to get our first year students to think about the shape, form and image of their designs, which is far easier when working in white. As they become more advanced they are introduced to colour. We have given students a completely open brief so there will be a really wide range of work on show."

There were obviously good and bad designs thrown in there, but to be honest, the thing that caught my attention was the apparant lack of brief to the models. And while I'm aware they're all amateurs, it struck me how important this factor is. Is modelling essentially performing? Could this be classed as performing arts?

World Storytelling Day

2010-03-20T09:31:00.007Z

Happens today!

For those in Nottingham wanting to get into the world of storytelling, Nottingham Storytellers take part in events around the country, and also host their own in the city. They will also be holding a workshop in May:

+ Beginners Storytelling Workshop

+ Saturday 15 May

+ 10.00am

+ Arnold Library

They're a dying breed, I tell ye! Anyway, you can find out more about this ancient art and it's presence in the city HERE.

EDIT: It's also Alien Abduction day. An important fact to note, I feel..

Danza Contemporanea de Cuba

2010-03-18T22:50:00.007Z

"From the heat of Cuba comes the heart of dance.

World famous, but rarely seen outside of Cuba, this breath-taking company of 21 dancers bring the heat and passion of Cuba to the stage with an eclectic mix of contemporary dance fused with Afro Caribbean and Spanish styles."

The Cubans landed in Nottingham on Thursday 04 March. The following four days in the city were IMMENSE.

image courtesy of Manuel Harlan via Dance Consortium [Mambo 3XXI by George Céspedes]

A couple of weeks ago, I was lucky enough to shadow Heather [Co-Ordinator] and Nina [Interpreter] of Dance Consortium who bring international dance to venues across the UK, during their stop in Nottingham. As I arrived to greet them at their hotel, the hoard of 21 or so dancers, Director and Team from Cuba's infamous Danza Contemporanea de Cuba came floating through the door; I knew this was going to be a pretty cool experience.

During their manic tour around.. everywhere [?], I got to catch a glimpse of what it's like to be on tour, to organise the days within a venue while on tour, and the general workings of bringing an international company to the UK. Heather occasionally gives talks on the subject at LIPA, and I gradually caught on to many of her 'Touring 101 Tips'. [I basically noted these down on a two year old notepad. Complete geek.]

image courtesy of Manuel Harlan via Dance Consortium [Folia by Jan Linkens]

They performed three pieces:

Demo-n/Crazy, choreographed by Rafael Bonachela - I'd seen Bonachela Dance Company a few days before at the Playhouse, so it was a wee bit interesting to see the piece he'd done with the Cubans

Folia, choreographed by Jans Linken

Mambo 3XXI, choreographed by George Cespedes - Their in-house choreographer, George led class each day with them, which I was lucky enough to join in with [I need to exercise waaay more]

The company were absolutely brilliant to be around; despite the sliiiiight language barrier, I was able to understand enough not to look like a complete mong. [Nanny Pereles would be proud.] [N.B. If any Cuban's are reading this/Nina, I have duly enrolled onto a Spanish course which starts April 01. YES.] They have a different way of communicating and behaving with each other, which was really beautiful; it reminded me of being with family or something, pretty sweet.

Highlights from the experience include: the curtain raising on the first night and realising what it was about / Nina pulling me onto stage for the Post-Show Talk / random golden tips from Heather when I would least expect them / having a philosophical conversation about age and personality and the body and the mind in two languages while listening to a beaut of a playlist / cutting the hair of a company member communicating only through screams / finding Nicola, the Dresser at Playhouse, soaked after the steamer had exploded / running around, and actually knowing where I was going and who I was looking for / being sat in the Auditorium, the curtain raising on the second night and knowing I knew the people who walked on stage / the Capoeira party at Nottingham Contemporary after the second night [They can definately dance.]

The remaining dates are both in London at Sadler's Wells:
+ Friday 19 March / 7.30pm
+ Saturday 20 March / 7.30pm

LINK=HERE for more information.

And on that note, I'm probably going to Cuba for my next holiday.

But this isn't the end... In May, the Brazilian Companhia de Dança Deborah Colker will be hitting the Nottingham Playhouse stage through Dance Consortium, and I will be shadowing once again. Should be awesome. More info later...

Mad Go

2010-03-17T23:24:00.003Z

It's been mad these past two weeks. I'll post it all up in the next day or so...

In the mean time:

The Incredible San Fancisco Artists' Soapbox Derby, 1975 from Mike Haeg

Fashion Week Roundup

2010-03-02T08:10:00.000Z

While we have a few guys in the office, it is rather rammed with girls.

On that note, I present a couple of links on London Fashion Week.

image courtesy of Mark Reay

Why not have a quick peek at:

THIS

and

THIS.

Conversations Around Choreography

2010-03-01T08:05:00.004Z

In the winter, Siobhan Davies held a series of talks with a number of artists from different disciplines centering around the subject of Choreography.

Francis Alÿs, Artist

Tim Crouch, Playwright / Performer

Edmund de Waal, Ceramicist

Molly Dineen, Film Maker

Matteo Fargion, Composer

Lavinia Greenlaw, Poet / Novelist

Katie Mitchell, Theatre Director

Sarah Wigglesworth, Architect

"‘Do you recognise choreographic practice in your work?’ Striving to extend her understanding of the meaning of choreography through other people's practice, artistic director and choreographer Siobhan Davies speaks with a number of eminent artists and practitioners from outside the world of dance. Explore these eight published conversations which consider creative process and choreographic practice."

The results can be found at the new live site dedicated to the subject HERE, and make for an interesting read [provided you have the time... I suggest bookmarking the pages!]

You can also find the Foreword by Francis Hodgson, HERE.

Looking Into The Past

2010-02-28T09:12:00.000Z

Following my visit to Curve on Friday, I spent some time filling in a questionnaire [all will be revealed soon...] that made me look back at the past six months of my Creative Apprenticeship.

I'd not actually realised that I'm halfway through. Already!!

And coincedentally, this weekend I came across Looking Into The Past, a Flickr Group containing shots such as these...

images courtesy of Looking Into The Past

Nice, oui?

Curve, Leicester

2010-02-27T11:37:00.010Z

So, in a couple of weeks, we have an event extravaganza called U.Dance East Midlands. It’s held at 800 capacity Curve, Leicester and is...

"a visual feast of dance highlighting the exceptional talent of young people and celebrating the wealth of youth dance in our region. Prepare to be blown away…"

Yesterday, I went for a few meetings with Linzi [who is heading up the event] at Curve, and was blown away by the sheer magnitude of the place! It’s basically a building within a building, and for those of you who haven’t been before, or seen it, you must check out their website. The stage itself is surrounding by moving walls, which can be raised up. When we arrived, and as I was shown to the huge stage for the first time, I saw this --->

..and was rather confused.

“So that is the stage?” I ask.

“That is the stage” they answer.

“What the..$%&;%”!” I think.

[N.B. And if my wee illustration hasn't painted a beautifully detailed depiction of the place, visit their website for a more comprehensive and virtual tour of the place... :o]

Immense = the only word I can use to describe its architectural design.

Thankfully, Linzi, Vanessa and everyone else involved have obviously been there plenty of times; I, on the other hand, am definitely going to need another visit, and another session studying the floor plan before I get my head around helping the management of 200 performers for U.Dance. Should be exciting.
Belief.

Creative Block?

2010-02-26T17:36:00.004Z

Image courtesy of ISO50

READ THIS.

Light Night

2010-02-25T08:33:00.007Z

This was another grrrrreat night! Light Night is a City Council run event, which [unlike it’s Parisian counter-part] only lasts a few hours. The idea is that the city is lit up with performances, art, music et all for one night. I think it’s an awesome night though... much room for expansion!

Dance4 were there in full glory bringing Nottingham FIVE great artists for the crowds’ viewing pleasure.

And what a sight.

Set in Congregational Hall, and presented as ‘Dance4 Presents... Improvisation Congregation’, it really was a crazy concoction. We had all four dance artists and one musician set within a sunken hall, surrounded by rows of pews.

While the musician, Jamie, worked with strings, organs, keys, he manipulated the set using digital means. The dancers were left to improvise around the space, which looked beautiful and weird and mesmerising, especially with the backdrop of pews and expansive arches encircling the scene.

I bumped into a few friends who came the following night, and were happily surprised by their reviews [I wasn’t sure what their take on it would be]. Apparently, they found it pretty funny at first, quickly got sucked in, wanted to join the performers and had consequently been talking about it to people all day. It’s awesome to get the opinion of those who might never have experienced anything like that before...

The building had a constant flow of people, [which was possibly helped along by the fact we occasionally had six foot metal dragon stationed outside our doors], and the night was a great success for Nottingham all round.

Whhheeeyyyyyy!!

Who’s up for checking out Paris’ Nuit Blanche next October?

episodes2010

2010-02-23T17:18:00.001Z

Friday February 06 and Sunday February 06 2010

+ Nottingham Playhouse

+ Over 300 Performers

= Fun tiiiiimes.

As one of the biggest projects I’ve supported so far, it’s fair to say I was pretty... grateful I had some excellent people showing me the way!

With months of preparation, I learnt A TON about how something of this magnitude is organised. The smooth runnings of 300 young performers over two days in one of Nottingham’s premier venues [A.K.A Nottingham Playhouse] was no mean feat, but thankfully Helen, who headed up the whole project was On It.

Each day beginning pretty damn early, and thankfully we had a small crew of volunteers consisting of uni students/recent grads to help out the manic day. Helen had organised it so there was basically a running conveyor belt – in this way, we knew exactly where everyone was at any given moment, nothing was static. Kirsten, myself and the brillllliant Playhouse Staff, then managed the performers within the boundaries set – all making for a smooth, smooth night!

I love that moment in a performance when suddenly nothing else matters; you have an aim, you have a job, and you do it. Adrenaline kicks in, and everything is realising itself around you.

The performances ranged from contemporary to street, south asian inspired to ballet; something to suit everyone and perhaps introduce something new audience members. We also had Vernon Coaker, along with our Director, Paul Russ, presenting speeches before the shows, which I felt was quite an honour. [For those not aware, Vernon Coaker is Minister of State for Schools and Learners. Great that he must see this as an important opportunity for young people!]

For photos of the performances, check out Dance4's Facebook HERE and HERE!

All photos by the marvellous David Sever n. Big up!

Save BBC6 Music!

2010-02-13T08:51:00.004Z

image courtesy of Save BBC6 Music

For a detailed explanation on the situation, read HERE.

Leicester: Big Screen

2010-02-10T17:46:00.004Z

Something to note for Leicester-ites. I got this email a while back, but after meeting few more Leics-dwellers at last months EMPAF Event [tres interessant, and I might post about this event soon. Any creatives within the East Midlands participatory arts scene should check these guys out. Now!], I thought, I may as well add info I receive for our regional brother!

"Think of it as a city centre venue rather than a big screen. There'll be live opera and concerts, interactive games, events, short films by local film makers, artistic pieces and videos from local bands.

The screen is one of a growing number of Big Screens across the UK and will be a showcase for community projects, film makers, bands and artists from across the region and beyond.

With its camera on top and ability to relay live events, Leicester's new Big Screen is much more than just a big telly. Why not make sure you're on it?"

words courtesy of BBC Leicester

Find out more HERE.

I'm still alive!

2010-02-03T20:57:00.000Z

I'll give you an update as to my absence in a few days...

Keep your eyes peeled!

Good stuff.

Tips For Better Ideas

2010-01-27T19:05:00.003Z

Dance4 Presents... Intern

2010-01-26T09:15:00.001Z

This week, we talk to:

Laura Cherry, Dance4 Presents... Intern

Are you from Nottingham?

No. I’m from London.

What do you think of the creative scene in this city?
Really impressive actually. I like the fact theres not just theatres, theres also Nottingham Contemporary, and other places which are not just designated to one type of art. A lot of galleries and so on. I like how everythings close together, really accessible, not miles apart like some places.

And what brings you to Dance4?
My placement for university. I've travelled all this way as it’s a really good organisation. You touch on all different areas. Especially experimental dance which I love.

Have you enjoyed your time here?
I have. Its been very… inspiring and informative and very nice because everyones lovely. And it really benefits me and my future career because its an insight into the professional world which is nice to have before I leave uni. Everyone should go on placement, a lot of people can just be dreamers in uni...

How many times have you been here?
First time!

How long have you been involved in the Dance sector?
Since I was five. I started doing ballet and modern and disco which was amazing. I joined an amateur theatre company doing musical theatre for a long time, then I started going to contemporary dance youth groups in northants with northantsDance. Then YDE in 2007 and carried doing contemporary. I then moved to London doing a BA in Dance Performance and joined a company, DRA Dance Collective beginning of last year. We're a company who collaborate with fashion designers, musicians and filmmakers to create a company that is for the general public for the purpose of promoting contemporary dance.

What’s the most exciting thing you’ve done this year?
Being a part of DRA. Weve done loads... Glasto, music videos... We do all the admin, marketing and everything. I've learnt a lot from Dance4 regarding that. Especially on how to really go for it.

What you’re favourite tea?
Oh. Green. (!)

When we say Dance, you say…?
4!?

[Linzi: 'We’ve branded her already!']

If you could as us one question, what would it be?
Can you set one a place up in London please??

Dance4 Cookie?

2010-01-25T21:37:00.005Z

When branding meets food...

Any of you who have ever received an email, letter, seen a brochure, or even got the monthly newsletters from Dance4 will notice the blaaa-tant branding involved.

Black text.

Helvetica.

etcetc

Notice my delight as I see Helvetica Cookie Cutters.

Dance4 Cookies anyone??

image courtesy of Beverly Hsu

The Charleston

2010-01-24T21:13:00.000Z

This week.

The Promotion Part

2010-01-19T20:03:00.005Z

So as you can see, I am a Creative Apprentice in Live Events and Promotion.

I saw this 7:43 short film a few days ago made by Pringle of Scotland. In it, Tilda Swinton [The White Witch?] is attentively followed by Ryan McGinley's camera [one of my favourites] through a Scottish forest, field, castle and sea. All the while, she is wearing a number of Pringle's pieces from their newest collection and well, they look pretty beautiful.

It got me thinking about the promotion part and the effort that brands have to go to sell their products.

In a few years, how are we supposed to grab people's attention? How are we meant to engage audiences with our ideas? To what lengths are we meant to go to stand in a sea of competitors?

I like clothes

2010-01-18T21:11:00.001Z

images courtesy of the Botanski Flickrstream

...but perhaps this is too much?

Read more about Christian Boltanski HERE.

And read more about Personnes HERE.

Also, read about the annual event that is Monumenta HERE.

+ Monumenta 2010

+ Christian Boltanski: Personnes

+ Grand Palais, Paris, France

+ Wednesday 13 January - Sunday 21 February

+ €4.00 Standard Admission

Let's Dance Instead!

2010-01-15T08:00:00.000Z

Just found a group on Facebook.

Again, Nottingham kids... While you're all obviously coming to Nottingham Contemporary next weekend [see earlier post on this], another happening is happening before the Saturday 23 January installation peice at the Contemporary.

image courtesy of Let's Dance Instead!

"Come join us [Let's Dance Instead] on saturday the 23rd of January in Nottingham City Centre to dance instead of buying more things we don't need! We'll be dancing for around an hour. Meet us at 1pm outside Victoria Shopping centre the doors with the clock tower. All you will need is something to listen to your music on and your best dance moves!!"

LINK=HERE

Remember, later that day...

+ Nicola Conibere The Beckoning and the Escapades

+ Saturday 23 January 2.00-5.00pm

+ Nottingham Contemporary

+ £FREE

Dance4 Presents...At Nottingham Contemporary

2010-01-14T14:09:00.020Z

If you're around Nottingham 22-24 January, make sure you get down to Nottingham Contemporary.

Dance4 are working in conjunction with the newest artistic space in town to present three days of performance. Exciting stuff...! See you there.

LINK=HERE and HERE

Dance4 Presents... from Dance4

Dance4 Presents...

Three days of performance

22 Jan 2010 - 24 Jan 2010

In collaboration with Nottingham Contemporary, Dance4 presents three days of performances from established and emerging artists.

The programme will include critically acclaimed artists as well as some exciting newcomers who cross artistic disciplines to deliver an intriguing array of work that explores sound, film, text and movement.

For tickets and more information please contact Dance4 on 0115 941 0773

Wendy Houstoun, Keep Dancing
Friday 22 January, 8pm
£12 or £8 concessions
Dance4 presents the latest performance by luminary performance artist, Wendy Houstoun. ‘Movement, text, technology and humour combine in the solo 'Keep Dancing', as dance theatre artist Wendy Houston plays a typist locked in a loop of action and distraction.’ Timeout

Nicola Conibere The Beckoning and the Escapades
Saturday 23 January, 2-5pm
Free (no need to book however spaces are limited)
A playful and revealing installation exploring the relationship between live performance work and its audience through a series of everyday interactions.

Work in progress: Triple Bill
New Art Club, Guy Dartnell, Gabriele Reuter
Sunday 24 January, 2.30pm
£8 or £5 concessions
An exciting afternoon of work in progress offering an insight into new ideas as well as the opportunity to engage in discussion with the artists.

Tickets are on sale now from Dance4 on 0115 941 0773. Group booking discounts available, please call for more details.

The first opportunity to see live performance at Nottingham Contemporary.

2010.

2010-01-13T23:00:00.003Z

HAPPY

NEW

DECADE

!!!

So, I started back in the office last week after possibly The Best Christmas And New Year Ever. Much happened. Blah di blah.

And much to happen...

Tonight I went to a special needs school nearby. Really interesting to hear what the staff thought about dance and it's relevance to young people who aren't as physically able as others.

Couldn't help but think of something I saw a while ago. Some Sports Psychologists monitered Athletes visualising themselves performing on the field, on the track, and so on. As they saw these images, the actual muscles that would have been used reacted in the same way they would have done if they had actually taken part in the physical performance. Does that make sense? I might do a bit more research on this. Back to the books. Anyone know more on this?

One more thing!

2009-12-25T00:02:00.001Z

NB: About previous post 'Ont BIG SCREEN' regarding film 'Only When I Dance'. This is on Channel 4 today. If you're not tucking into a mountain of food/unwrapping more scarves from your dad/pouring another drink for family you barely know [all of which I will be doing] [I'm good at multi-tasking], then check it out. Alternatively, and if you can, Sky+ it!

+ Only When I Dance

+ Channel 4

+ Friday 25 December

+ 1.25pm

Have a good one :)

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T00:01:00.012Z

image courtesy of Alexandra Darrow circa '57

Theo Adams

2009-12-22T08:49:00.014Z

This guy seems to be popping up in all manner of websites/email inboxes. [Good Marketing Manager??]

"Theo Adams is a self-taught, 20 year old director, performer and visionary. Fresh from an epic collaboration with acclaimed photographer David Sims and W Magazine; His newly formed company of talented and passionate dancers, musicians, artists and performers are travelling from London to Tokyo to realise their most ambitious project to date. Entirely self-funded, managed and motivated, this new generation of interdisciplinary collaborators provide an uncompromised vision that is as exciting, artistic and powerful as it is unusual."

His group, The Theo Adams Company, are now back in London from debuting the piece 'Cry Out' in Tokyo at the end of last month.

Trailer, here -->

CRY OUT [Trailer by Matthew Stone] from Theo Adams

Stocking Fillers

2009-12-21T09:28:00.004Z

En caso.

Ok, maybe not on the same wavelength as a Terry's Chocolate Orange. These images are perhaps more inspirational than aspirational, but I can only speak for myself at this point...

image courtesy of Vito Acconci

GO GO GO!!!

You should keep an eye out for Nowness, where this snippet was found. It's a new website [officially launching in 2010] that chronicles daily content

"from the most respected and innovative creatives working today. Ever evolving. Forward thinking. NOWNESS presents a highly creative and technologically advanced approach to showcasing the best of fashion, art, culture and travel. Each day, NOWNESS introduces you to a new world of ideas, delivering multi-faceted stories and exclusive content."

Before Christmas

2009-12-20T15:56:00.000Z

It's been such a mental few months..! Christmas break now.

It's about time I mention the Dance4 Christmas party we had laaaast Friday. Mr Mans, Mr Mans... I bow down to you. Good night.

On Saturday we took part in the [uber-special] Sneinton Arts Market featuring not only Dance4, [bringing Maison Foo and The Force], but Backlit, Tether, Can, Hatch [with their Santa's Workshop] and many many others. Were you there??

+ Sneinton Market

+ Saturday 19 December

+ 10.00am-4.00pm

Hopefully we'll be getting some photos up soon, when we're back in the office, to commemorate the day.

The event was pretty good, despite the aching cold and my [too] late discovery of a marquee holding magic fire. There was a whole load of talk about the regeneration of the Sneinton area, especially the Square, and the role of the Arts in that process. Opinions were flying about everywhere. For a slice of what people had to say, look out for the interviews hosted by Tether's Tethervision on their website and HERE. Coming soon to a laptop near you..

Secret Santa

2009-12-15T19:29:00.003Z

image courtesy of obsessedwithfilm

Thank you!!

D&C

2009-12-11T14:30:00.000Z

Ever wondered how they put those big fancy magazines together? So beautiful and lovingly.

Assembling the magazine! from Dazed & Confused

FYI/DIY

2009-12-09T16:56:00.000Z

image courtesy of Viv W

Ont BIG SCREEN

2009-12-08T09:13:00.012Z

image courtesy of Stage and Cinema

"Only When I Dance is an extraordinary documentary film following a year in the life of two ballet dancing teenagers, Isabela Coracy and Irlan Da Silva, as they dance their way out of the infamous Complexo do Alemão, one of the most violent favelas in Rio de Janeiro. With wit, charm and tenderness, the film tracks the journeys of these two young hopefuls across Brazil, Europe and eventually New York."

Ok, ok, so... I'm not sure if they're really showing this film in Nottingham [yet, at least..]. Anyway, it came out last friday - here's hoping it pops up in the next couple of days... :/ Dazed Digital did an interview with Irlan Da Silva, one of the young stars of the film, HERE.

Plus. Click on the link above to go the official site, which bears the beauty that is the trailer. It gives a bit of another dimension to films focussed on dance.

"How it would be, if a house was dreaming"

2009-12-07T11:33:00.001Z

Speaking of Media kids...

555 KUBIK | facade projection | courtesy of urbanscreen

More suh-weet vids at the urbanscreen website.

Creative [Media] Apprenticeship anyone?

2009-12-06T16:26:00.001Z

Last week I went to a Creative Apprenticeship event for Media kids at Broadway. You know, just to scope out the competition. Or something. [Plus, they had free coffee].

While I was there, we heard from some people in Manchester who had their whole media plan up and running, to let us know what we could have in Nottingham. Was pretty interesting.

If you want to know more about Creative Apprenticeships in Media [or Live Events & Promotion in the Arts, which is what I'm focussing on] then GOOGLE. There's way too much information, pdfs, faq lists, etc for me to pinpoint. Depends what kind of info you're looking for.

A good place to start = HERE.

GOLD.

2009-12-05T08:38:00.002Z

BOOMBOX courtesy of Ely Kim

That is all.

Art of the Trench

2009-12-02T21:01:00.007Z

My sister told me to go on this.

It's from Burberry.

Trench coats are ok I guess.

image courtesy of The Sartorialist

It's the layout of the website that kicks ass.

I think they're onto something here...

Anyway, who needs photo blogs???

LINK = HERE

Ont Telly [#2]

2009-11-30T21:09:00.004Z

image courtesy of GIF PARTY

Apparantly this is on now. Or later, if you can get onto BBC iPlayer...

++ Margot

++ BBC Four

++ Monday 30 November

++ 9.00pm

About Margot Fonteyn.
Bit o' dance history for your there. Perhaps? Maybe? We'll see. Anyway, all I know is that it's tvguide.co.uk's Pick Of The Day. That's got to say something...

"Anne-Marie Duff plays the ballerina, who became a global celebrity after she embarked on a complicated relationship with Russian dancer Rudolf Nureyev"

I'm Not From London...

2009-11-26T14:40:00.010Z

...is a promotions group based in Nottingham. They put on gigs and that.

image courtesy of INFL

More importantly, Head Honcho Will Robinson has brought together over 50 of Nottingham's best musical talents for the massive feat that is:

'I'M NOTT FROM LONDON: THE MOVIE'

At the weekend, they shot another load of bands at The Art Organisation, which was semi-open to the public. Following this, they had the open afterparty at Jam Cafe, for performers, the like, and apparantly various members of Dance4 staff[?!].

This is a really important project in Nottingham's music scene; like no other, it's something that is championing local talents and condensing it in a way that those outside of our fair city can easily see what [musical awesomeness] there is on offer and tap into that.

Keep checking back on their site to see when future filming dates are taking place, and get down to support your local music.

Can't wait to see the finished product.

Lunch?

2009-11-24T21:55:00.007Z

image courtesy of iwhospice.org

If you're working in Nottingham tomorrow and like to eat.. and stuff... instead of lunching at the nearest jacket potato spot [a.k.a. your desk], why not walk down to Nottingham Contemporary?

As well as having a cafe, for all your culinary needs, they offer lunchtime talks every Wednesday.

"...walk through Nottingham Contemporary’s galleries with one of our own curators. This is a friendly and informal opportunity to learn more about the themes of our current exhibitions and our artistic ethos..."

++ Every Wednesday
++ 1.00-1.45pm

++ Meet at Reception

No. I'm not talking about the architecture of the building.

Yes. I am talking about lunch.

Arts Award

2009-11-19T14:13:00.001Z

Heard of it? Some might. Some mightn't.

A rough guide to the Arts Award:

#1 You can do it in your own time

#2 You do the things that you're interested in creatively [i.e. you're not forced to paint pictures, or make a music a music track when what you really want to do is host a fashion show]

#3 You work with advisers who guide you through the process

#4 You can do it in a group

#5 You can participate at different levels: Bronze, Silver, Gold
#6 You can take part as long as you're under 25

image courtesy of artsaward.org.uk

Basically set up as an Arts Sector version of the Duke of Edinburgh Award, the Arts Award is on the National Qualifications Framework. Those of you who want something to show for your hard work, those of you who are interested in working in the Sector and want to focus on getting a bit more experience, those of you who simply want a varifiable excuse to go and review a theatre piece when all you'd usually be doing is catching the latest Miss Marple, may find this interesting.

"Arts Award aspires to support any young person to enjoy the arts and develop creative leadership skills."

LINK = HERE with a more comprehensive guide...

RJD2

2009-11-16T14:56:00.000Z

My friend posted this on Facebook yesterday.

"Post hip-hop troubadour RJD2 teamed with dance and media artist Bill Shannon for the 'Work It Out' video. Shannon, born with a degenerative hip condition, developed a way to express himself through dance [and even skateboarding] on crutches. Director Joey Garfield took to the streets of New York and captured one continuous shot of Shannon, injecting RJD2 into random roles throughout the video."

This is a taste of something guuurd. Bill's website is packed up with more videos, pictures, doodles...
For those who are intruiged by this, you may also like to check out Candoco Dance Company.

What is dance?

Who can dance?

The FF

2009-11-13T17:40:00.000Z

The Friday Feeling

Stephen is a

Fine

Artist

Are you from Nottingham?

No.

What do you think of the creative scene in this city?
I think it is an unexploded bomb in the cultural scene, and I can't think for the life of me why it's not all recognised. The structure's all here. As a visitor you have to find it though; what cities have a national representative of dance [Dance4], a Royal Theatre and Concert Hall, Broadway [a Media and Cinema Hub], a thriving amateur theatre scene, Nottingham Contemporary, Lakeside, two major universities [UN and NTU], Michelin star restaurants, and what I hear there is a great shopping scene, great independent shops. It should have a huge confidence in itself.

"[Nottingham is] A volcano waiting to explode... it just needs a poke!"

And what brings you to Dance4?
I'm on the interviewing panel for the new Communications and Development Manager. [N.B. Stephen is a Board Member of Dance4]

Have you enjoyed your time here?
I always enjoy my time here, there are great people. Always a very stimulating environment.

How many times have you been to the building?
Approx 20 times.

How long have you been involved in the Dance sector?
30 years!

What’s been a highlight for you this year?
Going to Jamie Oliver's restaurant Fifteen, with my family. Very yummy food and a stimulating atmosphere. Also going to the Tate Modern this year (before it was open to the public!).

What's you’re favourite tea?
Builders tea - made by somebody else. Best cup of tea is in an Italian Cafe opposite the Royal Opera House early in the morning, it was always full of interesting types.

When we say Dance, you say…?
Interesting...

If you could ask us one question, what would it be?
Are you going to Nottingham Contemporary tomorrow?

Hell yeah!

Butoh. Yeah?

2009-11-11T21:53:00.010Z

When you search YouTube for 'Butoh', this is what comes up:

So. I'm pretty new to the Butoh thing. I came across it a few months back, and can vividly remember having a chat about it to someone in the office when I first started as Creative Apprentice: 'Yeah, yeah, well I found this really cool thing a few months back. It's pretty eye-opening and wierd and makes me a bit uncomfortable when I look at it and I can't help but embrace that feeling and stare even more and it's also Japanese and only, what, fifty years old(?) and I'm almost definitely sure I want to see some in real life one day. Ahh man, you gotta get on it, it's called Butoh. Yeah? Butoh?'

Anyway... turns out Butoh's pretty big.

If you're in London this autumn/winter, there's a festival where you can witness all the white make-up, taboo hitting action. The London Butoh Festival runs annually September-November, and this year marks the 50th year of official existence which was lead by Tatsumi Hijikata and Kazuo Ohno. Check. This. Out.

Want more information? Google it, lazy.

NB: I will give you this one nugget. Fans of Antony and Johnsons may/may not be surpised to know that their latest release 'The Crying Light' is actually dedicated to Kazuo Ohno, who also stars as the artwork for the album. Interessant?

Indeed

2009-11-10T23:07:00.000Z

"Let's get to know the drums to which we march"

words courtesy of Glass Candy

Ont Telly

2009-11-09T12:49:00.000Z

image courtesy of GIF PARTY

If you have nowt to do next Saturday night/do have something to do, but maybe have nowt to do in another gap of your life and have access to BBC iPlayer...

++ What Is Beauty? with Matt Collings

++ BBC Two

++ Saturday 14 November

++ 8.30pm

He talks about beauty in art and that.

Part of The Modern Beauty season on BBC Two and BBC Four.

White Hot Truth Y'all!!

2009-11-08T09:45:00.002Z

Find it here. An amazing post.

image courtesy of me :)

++ Bonus image here from Keri Smith.

Kioskiosk in Nottingham

2009-11-08T09:30:00.000Z

One of the first wee outing's I got as Creative Apprentice at Dance4 was perdy damn cool.

The launch of Kioskiosk in Nottingham. With Wayne ['Seriously, he's going to be here? In Nottingham!?'] Hemingway.

image courtesy of investinnottingham.co.uk

The idea of Kioskiosk is to give small creative businesses the opportunity to showcase and sell their wares to the people of the streets. And we're lucky enough to be the only city outside of London to be part of this programme that was launched by the co-founder of super label Red or Dead.

The Kiosk, which is run on an application basis, is rent-free and comes as an answer for those up-and-coming businesses who are faced with walls when trying to startup their companies. It's been noted that there are 60 000 design students in the UK - and this number keeps on growing. Those of you who want to get involved in this round of Kioskiosk may be too late, but click on the calendar to see who's in there on what day and support those who made it through!

++ Pelham Street [right opposite Homemade]
++ Every day
++ 30 September to 31 December

Lovely Jubbly!

Got an idea??

2009-11-07T13:46:00.000Z

Get going, times running out if you want a part of the BIG fund they have at IdeasTap!

Closing date is Wednesday 11 November. Tick Tock.
Late? Worry not my young padawan! There's a looooaaad of useful things on the site that don't have a time bomb deadline. Just watch the promo vid for more info.
Go on.
Get on it.

This started on Friday. We're going to do it every week...

2009-11-07T09:41:00.001Z

The Friday Feeling

Usha is a

mIxeD

MEdIa

aRtISt

Are you from Nottingham?
Yes I am.

What do you think of the creative scene in this city?
Sometimes really good, sometimes quite random, some quiet times.

And what brings you to our building?
I’m here to do some experiments with my friend Marcus.

Have you enjoyed your time here?
Yeah! We want to use the space more, we’ll be back next week!

How many times have you been to the building?
Many, many times. I’ve been coming here years back, for performances, workshops, to run workshops, over fifty times easily.

How long have you been involved in the Dance sector?
All my life.

"As a child I loved moving, movement’s very special to me."

What’s been a highlight for you this year?
Go Ape!

What's you’re favourite tea?
Bog standard builders brew.

When we say Dance, you say…?
YES!

If you could ask us one question, what would it be?
What makes you smile?

For the blog at work

2009-11-06T21:40:00.003Z

CA - Part One: Before

It’s just over a month and a half since I started at Dance4 as Creative Apprentice. And it’s just over a week since the end of nottdance09. Strange that. So much has happened in my time here that it seems a little bit weird to try and sum it all up in blog entry.

While I’m sure you’d love to hear about my first couple of weeks, and how I majestically learnt how to deal with a stubborn printer, how I ceremoniously used a franking machine by my own accord, or how I [semi-] mastered the art of the tea round [all very impressive, I think you’ll agree], we’ll stick to the good stuff. The meaty stuff. nottdance09.

Right now, the office is pretty still, oddly still; my only real experiences of working in Dance4 are a flurry of new names and faces entering the place, artists from around the world in the studios rehearsing, dates and meetings flung into my [seriously] tiny diary, people in and out delivering props, branded material and the like [umbrellas anyone?].

Some of the most interesting things pre-festival, were simply having the artists around. One of them using the space asked for our musical suggestions for his piece, and after having a sharing, a couple of tracks were definitely recognised [a proud moment for all involved…].

Helping/shadowing the orchestration of other projects and working on licensing were [probably secretly, definitely geekily] enjoyed by yours truly. It was also kind of comforting to know there were other people out there who had my obsession with lists. These things were flying everywhere.

I feel pretty lucky and extremely thankful. Soaking up everything I can, and learning as much as is possible, is why I’m here after all. And I like it.

Your Creative Apprentice,

PS – I apologise for all the brackets. Be prepared for more.