Tag: newcastle

Theatrical Spectacle STOMP Returns To Newcastle

By on 4th December 2015in Entertainment, Music

Fresher, faster and funnier than ever, the multi-award winning theatrical spectacle STOMP is set to make a return to Newcastle Theatre Royal for the first time in 15 years, and will be touching down for one week only…

A unique combination of percussion, dance and comedy, Stomp is a stage spectacle in a genre of its own. Everyday objects like dustbin lids, matchboxes, brooms, cigarette lighters are transformed into musical instruments and props, and the cast command the stage with an unprecedented energy and rhythm as they ‘play’ them.

Now entering its 23rd year, this smash hit show has entertained over 15 million people across 50 countries worldwide; featured in a range of commercials, film soundtracks and TV collaborations and won multiple awards including an Obie, a Drama Desk Award and an Olivier.

The show was born in Brighton, UK, in the summer of 1991 as the result of a ten year collaboration between street theatre artists Luke Cresswell and Steve McNicholas.  From acclaimed performances at the Edinburgh Fringe to large outdoor events, the legend of Stomp grew in ambition and scope, gaining legions of fans along the way and becoming the theatrical sensation it is today.

Since their last visit to Newcastle in 2000, the Stomp cast have performed in the closing ceremony at the 2012 Olympics, and have introduced two new pieces to the show: Frogs and Trolleys.

Trolleys taps into the everyday experience of negotiating a busy shopping aisle with a fully laden supermarket trolley, but soon transforms into the closest the show will ever get to drum corps. It is also the first fully fledged Stomp routine to be performed entirely in 5/4 time signature.

Frogs explores the bizarre sonic possibilities of a variety of plumbing fixtures! It has to be heard to be believed, but close your eyes and this piece sounds unlike anything ever heard in the show till now. Organic, quirky and plumbing new heights.

Creators Luke Cresswell and Steve McNicholas are both very happy with the way the new pieces have slotted in, each with Stomp‘s trademark exploration of sound, movement and physical humour. There’s more to come, too; they will be working on more new routines later this year.

Still remaining is Stomp’s signature high-octane meeting of slick choreography, tight ensemble work, industrial percussion and a narrative of anarchic clowning, as the irrepressible troupe of eight turn brooms into soft shoe partners, clapping into intricate conversations and water cooler bottles into sophisticated instruments. A row of folding chairs are straddled, slid, slammed and slapped into rhythmic submission. It is at once primal and urbane, leaving no percussive potential – of object, body or action – unexploited. And all underpinned by a childish delight in making serious noise.

The whole show hurtles towards a brilliantly reworked climax – a showstopper in every sense – as a crackling carnival of leaping, spinning, skidding and pounding performers vent their inexhaustible energies on an unsuspecting orchestra of metal dustbins, bin lids, tubs and water butts. Joyous, thumping, exhilarating bliss for all involved… except the bins!

Stomp is produced by Glynis Henderson Productions & Stomp Productions.

Stomp comes to Newcastle Theatre Royal Monday 15th – Saturday 20th February 2016 to celebrate over 20 astonishing years of foot stamping, finger drumming, and adrenalin rushing joy across the globe. It plays evenings at 7.30pm, matinees on Thursday 2pm and Saturday 2.30pm. Tickets from £13.00. Tickets can be purchased online at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 08448 11 21 21 (Calls cost 7ppm plus your phone company’s access charge).

Newcastle Tavern Wins ‘Pub With The Best Pint’ Award

By on 1st December 2015in Local Biz

A landmark North East bar, which was restored to its former glory last year, is raising a glass to celebrate being voted the ‘Pub with the Best Pint’…

The City Tavern at Northumberland Road, Newcastle, beat off competition from more than one thousand pubs across the UK to take the honour in the Star Pubs & Bars awards organised by Heineken.

The pub is run by North East entrepreneur David King, who has a long history of working in the industry, and was behind some of the region’s most innovative watering holes.

The City Tavern, widely recognised for its Tudor style façade, was taken over by Mr King early in 2014, and soon underwent a £450k refurbishment to create a state-of-the-art bar, while still retaining the venue’s historic features.

It was Mr King’s commitment to producing the perfect pint which led to him winning the fiercely contested award, with the pub’s beer judged against stringent criteria including taste, smell and temperature, along with staff knowledge and service.

Judges were also impressed by the fact that the bar offered ten cask ales and ciders, along with three house ales which were brewed exclusively for The City Tavern.

“We are absolutely delighted to have won this award, which is acknowledgement of the commitment we have to pulling the perfect pint every time,” said David.

“We pride ourselves on giving customers a great experience, and for that to be recognised in the face of so much competition from around the UK is fantastic, not just for us but for the region.”

David received the prestigious award at a gala celebration night in Liverpool from celebrity chef Simon Rimmer, where he was also recognised as a finalist in two other categories for best-trained staff and best retailer.

Star Pubs & Bars Trading Director, Chris Jowsey, added: “The hallmark of a great pub is a great pint, and the City Tavern serves one of the best in the country with beers to satisfy all palates, delivery and standards that are second to none, and staff that clearly care.”

This is not the first time The City Tavern has enjoyed victory in these awards however, having last year taken the title of Retailer of the Year.

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Review: Legally Blonde At Tyne Theatre & Opera House

By on 26th November 2015in Entertainment, Events

West End Musical Theatre Company‘s debut production of Legally Blonde is setting Newcastle alight. Here’s a review courtesy of Kelly Knowles and Abbie Wilkinson…

 

We were lucky enough to score a pair of tickets for the show’s opening night at the Tyne Theatre, and the atmosphere was electric. The lavish auditorium is a great place to be, even before the theatrics begin, and our Grand Circle seats meant that we had a great view of the stage.

The Legally Blonde musical is based on the novel by Amanda Brown and the 2001 film starring Reese Witherspoon, and as big fans of the source material, we’re pleased to report that its adaptation to the stage has worked beautifully.

The show’s music, by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin, is a fantastic compliment to the narrative, and will have you singing along even after you’ve left the theatre. Favourites include Take It Like A Man, which has all the charm of a Disney fairy tale, but the wit you’d expect from Hollywood. Top marks to the singing cast, who go for every number with total energy and passion.

In fact, the cast’s performances are hard to criticise all round. The West End Musical Theatre Company’s experience shines through wonderfully, making us just a little disappointed that it took us until now to see one of their productions! Their previous shows include Wizard Of Oz and Stepping Out.

Leading lady Cheryl Moody is electrifying as sorority girl Elle Woods. Her performance is fun, charming, and so effortlessly ditzy that we’re sure many like us will be able to see a little of themselves up on stage. Along the way, Cheryl reminds us that being ourselves never goes out of style.

 

Special mention, however, must go to the two unlikely stars of the show, Chi-Chi the chihuahua and Patsy the bulldog. Chi-Chi, as Elle’s faithful sidekick Bruiser, steals every scene with effortless grace, and remains en vogue throughout.

The production and stage management itself is also of note. The story takes us from the sorority house to the Halls of Justice, and the scenes change seamlessly. We commend the WEMTC for their clear dedication to rehearsal and practice.

Suffice to say, Legally Blonde had us smiling from start to finish, and if you’re looking for a feel-good show, this one will not disappoint. As keen theatre goers, Abbie and I were suitably impressed, and we’re already looking forward to the company’s next production.

And yes – we played through the entire soundtrack on the way home!

If you want to see the show for yourself, you can catch it at the Tyne Theatre & Opera House, located on Westgate Road, Newcastle. The show runs until this Saturday, so be sure to book your tickets here.

Thousands Flock To Metrocentre For Star-Studded Christmas Lights Switch-On

By on 20th November 2015in Entertainment, Film & TV

Thousands gathered to watch some of TV’s top stars light up one of the UK’s largest shopping centres…

Families from across the North East headed to Gateshead’s intu Metrocentre at the weekend to watch X Factor favourite Lola Saunders, and Gogglebox family the Moffatts press the button which signals the start of the festive season at the centre.

Former fishmonger Lola, from East Boldon, made it through to the live finals of the X Factor in 2014 and has since performed live across the UK, as well as recording tracks with legendary producers such as Artful Dodger.

She was joined underneath intu Metrocentre’s Tree of Light in Town Square, by Metro Radio’s breakfast team, Steve and Karen, as well as Mark, Betty and Scarlett Moffatt, from Bishop Auckland, whose straight-talking has made them one of the most popular households on Channel 4’s Gogglebox.

The celebrities were joined by intu Metrocentre’s Head of Fun, Mac Toal, his deputy, Myah Rose Wilson, the centre’s Metrognomes, and Santa himself.

Helen Atkinson, marketing manager at intu Metrocentre, said: “Lola and the Moffatts attracted possibly our biggest Christmas crowd ever, and the atmosphere in the centre was absolutely amazing.”

intu Metrocentre’s Christmas light switch on forms part of a packed programme of seasonal events, which also includes Santa’s grotto, a pantomime, and extended opening hours until January 3rd, as well as raising funds for Text Santa.

For more information visit www.intumetrocentre.co.uk/Whats-on/Christmas.

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Win! Tickets To See NT Live: Les Liaisons Dangereuses

By on 18th November 2015in Competitions

 

Following the hugely successful broadcasts of Coriolanus and King Lear, National Theatre Live brings the Donmar Warehouse’s highly anticipated new production of Les Liaisons Dangereuses to cinemas – broadcast live from the Donmar’s London home.

Directed by Josie Rourke (Coriolanus), the cast includes Elaine Cassidy (The Paradise), Janet McTeer (The White Queen) and Dominic West (The Wire). In 1782, Choderlos de Laclos’ novel of sex, intrigue and betrayal in pre-revolutionary France scandalised the world. Two hundred years later, Christopher Hampton’s irresistible adaptation swept the board, winning the Olivier and Evening Standard Awards for Best Play. Josie Rourke’s revival now marks the play’s thirty year anniversary.

Former lovers, the Marquise de Merteuil and Vicomte de Valmont now compete in games of seduction and revenge. Merteuil incites Valmont to corrupt the innocent Cecile de Volanges before her wedding night, but Valmont has targeted the peerlessly virtuous and beautiful Madame de Tourvel. While these merciless aristocrats toy with others’ hearts and reputations, their own may prove more fragile than they supposed.

We’re offering two tickets to see NT Live: Les Liaisons Dangereuses at Vue Gateshead on 28th January, 7pm. To win, all you have to do is answer the following question…

In which city is the National Theatre located?

[contact-form to=’online@inandaroundmag.co.uk’ subject=’LES LIAISONS COMP’][contact-field label=’Name’ type=’name’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Email’ type=’email’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Address’ type=’text’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Answer’ type=’text’ required=’1’/][/contact-form]

This competition closes 15th December.

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Sign Language Santa On His Way To Metrocentre

By on 18th November 2015in Local Biz, What's New?, What's On?

Intu Metrocentre is set to spread some festive cheer with a special event for hearing-impaired children…

As part of its Christmas festivities, intu Metrocentre, Gateshead, will be running two special sessions with Santa and Mrs Claus for children who communicate via sign language.

The sessions, which will run on Sunday November 22nd and Sunday November 29th from 10am – 11am, will give the children the chance to visit Santa’s grotto and tell him what they want for Christmas.

The idea for a signing Santa came after members of the intu Metrocentre Customer Services teams received sign language training.

“We wanted to make sure that everyone had the opportunity to enjoy our Christmas programme, and these sessions will mean that children with hearing problems will be able to join in the fun too,” said Helen Atkinson, marketing manager at intu Metrocentre.

“There’s so much going on in the centre throughout the festive season, including our seasonal pantomime, Santa’s grotto, our extended opening hours and raising funds for Text Santa. We’re really proud of this part of our Christmas programme.”

The sessions with Santa and Mrs Claus will take place between 10am and 11am. Members of the centre’s Customer Services team who have been trained to use sign language will also be on hand on the day.

Shoppers must book in advance for this free activity, and can do so here. Spaces are limited, so shoppers are advised to book early.

For more information about the centre’s Christmas programme, including Santa’s Grotto, visit www.intumetrocentre.co.uk/Whats-on/Christmas.

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North East Theatre Company To Debut Legally Blonde Musical

By on 17th November 2015in Entertainment, Events, Local Biz, What's New?, What's On?

Newcastle will be turning blonde next week as a North East theatre company takes to the stage with their premiere of the smash-hit musical Legally Blonde…

West End Musical Theatre Company will be performing the musical based on the popular film, which tells the story of Elle Woods as she turns from sorority sister to legal high-flyer. Elle makes the move to Harvard Law School when she realises that her boyfriend is dumping her for someone more ‘serious’.

Elle, played by Cheryl Moody, even considers turning brunette!

The cast of North East performers will be entertaining audiences all week from 24th to 28th November at the Tyne Theatre, and the show even features two dogs – Chi-Chi the chihuahua, and Patsy the bulldog.

Despite having taken leading roles before, Cheryl say this is the most demanding part she’s ever had.

“I loved the movie as a child, and when I realised there was a musical version I couldn’t wait to audition for the role of Elle!”

Cheryl, who works as cabin crew for Thomas Cook airlines, already had the flowing blonde locks needed for the part, and the similarities don’t end there.

“I love playing Elle, and to be honest, I don’t find it too difficult. I am a very girly girl, I own a chihuahua, I love pink and I have been known to be a bit dizzy at times!”

As the lead role, Cheryl performs numbers such as Take It Like A Man, So Much Better and Legally Blonde.

Elle’s love interests are Warner, played by Kevin Rhodes, and Emmett, played by Alex Easten. Elle is advised to follow her heart when it comes to love in Paulette’s powerful, moving and funny song Ireland.

The Newcastle-based theatre group pulled off a remarkable coup when they gained the licence to perform the North East amateur premiere of the show. Ken Anderson, Managing Director of West End Musical Theatre Company says:

“We were delighted to obtain the exclusive amateur performance rights for the North East, prior to its general release in 2016. The show includes memorable music with great lyrics, lots of dancing and plenty of energy.”

Legally Blonde is on at the Tyne Theatre, Westgate Road, Newcastle. Performances are nightly at 7pm from Tuesday 24th until Saturday 28th November, as well as matinée performances at 2pm on the Thursday and Saturday.

Tickets can be booked online at www.tynetheatreandoperahouse.uk, by calling 0844 2491000 or in person at the Tyne Theatre box office.

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8 North East Fireworks Displays To Visit This Year

By on 2nd November 2015in Entertainment, Events, Local Biz, What's New?, What's On?

Remember, remember, the 5th of November…

 

Looking for a North East bonfire night to attend this year? Here’s our rundown of the top eight to choose from…

Thursday 5th November
Beamish Bonfire Evening
Entrance at 6pm. Adult admission £5, children under 3 free.

Ouseburn Community Centre Firework Display
Entrance at 6.30pm. Admission free.

Hardwick Hall Firework Extravaganza
Entrance at 6pm. Adult admission £4, children free.

Gateshead Firework Spectacular
Entrance at 5.30pm. Admission £2.

Friday 6th November
Seaham Fireworks Display
Entrance at 6pm. Admission free.

Saturday 7th November
Chester-le-Street Grand Firework Display
Entrance at 4.40pm. Adult admission £4, children and OAP free.

Barnard Castle Bonfire Night
Entrance at 6pm. Adult admission £5, children £2.

St Cuthbert’s Hospice Family Fireworks Night
Entrance at 6pm. Adult admission £5, children under 15 £3.

Santa To Visit Autistic Children At St. James’ Park

By on 23rd October 2015in Lifestyle, What's New?, What's On?

A North East mum, worried her autistic son was missing out on the fun of Christmas, has come to the rescue – by arranging a festive lunch with Santa…

Not only will it be held at one of the sporting world’s most well-known venues, but all families living with autism are welcome, and Santa Claus himself will be making a special visit to meet them.

Samantha Doyle, from Chester-le-Street, set about planning the event (to be held on Monday 21st December at Newcastle United’s St James’ Park stadium) after realising six-year-old Freddie was missing out on a lot of the events and activities other children take for granted.

“Due to Freddie’s autism, his reactions to things can be extreme and unpredictable and, over the years, I’d gradually stopped taking him to the sort of events most children go to,” said Samantha.

“He couldn’t stand in a queue in a department store to meet Santa Claus, for example, and even going out to a restaurant for lunch can be difficult,” she added.

“And, because you can’t see autism, people don’t realise he has the condition. They just think he’s being naughty and badly behaved.

“Then I realised that my concerns about what other people might think were stopping Freddie having the sort of fun all children should have, especially at Christmas, and so I decided to organise this special event.”

And when it came to choosing a venue, Samantha, area sales manager for leading UK catering company, Sodexo Prestige Venues & Events, at St James’ Park, had a head start.

“The stadium’s the perfect venue,” she said. “Not only has it got the space and the catering facilities, but it’s a venue that attracts kids and families.”

On the day, the children will not only meet Santa Claus but also enjoy a festive three course lunch with their families and a special mini tour of the stadium.

Samantha’s idea has not only received the backing of the North East Autism Society but staff have also agreed to assist with the planning and will be there on the day.

The society’s family development manager Kerrie Highcock said, “I think it’s a great idea. A lot of families can feel socially isolated and the children do miss out on a lot so I think this is amazing – it’s going to be fantastic.”

Tickets cost £18.95 for a three course meal for adults and £10.95 for those aged 12 and under, with two course options also available. Bookings are now being taken and tables can be reserved by calling 0191 201 8525 or e-mailing candb@nufc.co.uk.

Alternate Reality: Photographer Jo Pattison Captures Street Life

By on 21st October 2015in Entertainment, Have Your Say, Lifestyle, What's New?

North East Photographer Jo Pattison shares five photographs from her series ‘Alternate Reality’…

As a self-taught photographer, I’m constantly exploring new techniques and looking for new ideas to try out. I’ve never attended any college or university courses to learn photography, and as such I feel I’ve searched for and found my own style, inspiration, and areas of interest.

I don’t have a particularly long attention span, so one of the things I love about photography is that there’s always something new to try, and always something different and unique, whether it’s using a film or a digital camera, trying different filters to achieve new effects, or using different settings on the camera.

One area of photography that particularly interests me is street photography. There are so many fascinating moments that are never caught on camera, so I try to catch them.

I’m drawn to using a slow shutter speed for my street photography, which achieves intentional motion blur. I feel that this captures the hustle and bustle of people rushing about their everyday routine, and beautifully portrays the passage of time, and the way that buildings and streets will remain long after people are gone.

For me, using a slow shutter speed adds a whole other dimension of interest to my photographs. You can almost feel the movement of the scene.

To explore more of Jo’s photography, you can visit her website here.

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