Cissia And Ada Coming To Blackpool Grand Theatre 15th and 16th July 2013

Cissie and Ada, the immortal comic characters created by the late, great  Les Dawson and his long-suffering sidekick Roy Barraclough grace the Grand Theatre’s stage once more- 30 years on!

Cissie and Ada an Hysterical Rectomy will be showing at the Grand Theatre Blackpool from Monday 15 to Tuesday 16 July 2013.

Broadway Theatre and Cutting the Strings Theatre Company are pleased to announce that Les Dawson’s comic creation Cissie and Ada will once again appear at on the Grand Theatre’s stage thirty years after their first stage appearance in the Laugh with Les Show as part of the Grand’s 1983 Summer Season.

Originally directed and staged by Barrie Stead, Les headlined the show with the Rolypolys as special guests, alongside singer Katie Budd and the Maurice Merry’s Musicmakers.

Roy Barraclough joined Les to perform a range of Cissie and Ada sketches for the twice nightly shows.

The Cissie and Ada characters celebrated on Blackpool’s Comedy Carpet first appeared on the Sez Les TV show in the 1970’s, and came about by Les and Roy improvising  two northern women whilst waiting around during the TV rehearsals.

The two comedians had developed their personas around the earlier comedy of Norman Evans, who had created a similar role as a women gossiping over the garden wall.

Cutting the Strings Theatre Company has secured the rights to the original sketches written by comedy writer Terry Ravenscroft which were unperformed for thirty years.

The play Cissie and Ada an Hysterical Rectomy will include many of the memorable classic scripts that are woven around Dawson’s later life story.

Two former Coronation Street favourites Eric Potts (Diggory) and Steven Arnold (Ashley) join Steve Nallon (famous for his Mrs Thatcher impersonation live and on seminal satirical TV show Spitting Image) and actress Natasha Magigi.

Cissie and Ada: An Hysterical Rectomy is directed by John Jackson Almond whose directing credits include Elegies for Angels, Punks & Raging Queens 2010 UK Revival (Shaw Theatre), An Audience with Kerry Ellis (Shaw Theatre) and Romeo & Juliet Shots (Young Vic).

At the Grand Theatre Blackpool see the immortal comic characters Cissie and Ada come back to life in the hilarious new play Cisse and Ada A Hysterical Rectomy from Monday 15 to Tuesday 16 July.

 Tickets from £12.50 - Booking and Transaction Fees Apply

For the fastest way to book tickets for any show visit The Grand’s interactive website  www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk where you can select your own seat! Alternatively call the Box Office on 01253 743339.

Colne Family Fun Day In Aid Of Sam's Neuroblastoma Appeal - 20th July 2013

Sam Shaw is having a Big Day Out at the Muni Theatre in Colne, on Saturday, July 20^th – and you are all invited to join him!

Four-year-old Sam is fighting Neuroblastoma – an aggressive childhood cancer. To give him the best chance of beating the disease, he needs clinical treatment in America - but it comes at a cost!

In total, Sam needs £250,000 to pay for the treatment and associated costs. The therapy he needs is not available in the UK and will not be funded by the NHS.

Almost half the amount has already been raised, but there is still a long way to go in order to get Sam to America.

A whole host of entertainment has been arranged for Saturday, July 20^th at the Muni Theatre between 12pm and 7pm.

There will be live music from The Cultivators, Red Confusion, The Gin Pit Rock Band and Crash, as well as lots of family fun courtesy of singers Annie Bond, Siobhan Masi, Lisa Ormerod and Jennifer Ball; the best of Colne’s Got Talent, party activities and tunes from DJs Neil Gallary and Jim Robinson.

A fire-engine and mascots from the Fire Brigade and Silentnight will also be there.

This should be a great family day out, so come along and support Sam!

Tickets are just £3 and are available from the Muni Box Office at Colne Town Hall.

Sam also has a Just Giving page where you can find out more about his appeal and make an online donation: http://www.justgiving.com/SamShawAppeal

See Des O'Connor at Blackpool Grand Theatre - Sunday 7th July for One Night Only

The multi-million record selling artist and legendary comedian Des O ‘Connor will be performing live on the Grand Theatre’s stage for one night only on Sunday 7 July!

The much-loved entertainer Des O’Connor has just completed a sensational season in the West End musical Dreamboats and Petticoats and was recently awarded a CBE for his services to entertainment and broadcasting. He will appear live on stage in his one man show, full of laughter, song and music at the Grand Theatre Blackpool on Sunday 7 July.

2013 is a milestone year for this legendary entertainer as he celebrates his 80^th birthday and 50 years in television.

Des is one of only a handful of British entertainers to be acclaimed internationally on stage and television. His American series was shown in over 40 countries and seen by 200 million people world-wide. On stage he has appeared at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, The Sydney Opera House, The O’Keefe Centre in Toronto and over 1000 times at the London Palladium.
 
Since his first television series in 1963, Des has starred in or hosted his own mainstream television show every year for over 45 years - longer than anyone anywhere in the world!
 
In 2001 he received the Special Recognition Award at the National TV Awards and his top-selling autobiography Bananas Can’t Fly was published the same year.
 
Recent TV includes Des O’Connor Tonight and ITV’s celebration special to mark Des’s 40th year in prime-time television, Des O’Connor Comedy Tonight.

His award-winning ITV 1 daily celebrity talk show Today With Des & Mel with co-host Melanie Sykes proved such a hit with viewers that the show more than doubled its audience.

In 2007 Des took over the helm of the hugely popular Channel 4 TV show Countdown for 2 years. His interview on Piers Morgan’s Life Stories (ITV) was the highest-rated of the series in 2011.
  
 Des is also a multi-million recording selling singer, having released 36 albums with sales of over 16 million and having spent 117 weeks in the top ten charts. His recent album, titled Inspired, comprises 18 brand new songs co written by Des and Alan Hawkshaw, who has worked with Elvis and Barbra Streisand. He will be working on a new album with Hawkshaw for release later in 2012.

In January this year Des completed a sensational three month season in the hit West End musical Dreamboats and Petticoats at the Playhouse Theatre, London. The show (minus Des!) will be coming to The Grand in November 2013!

Don't miss this rare opportunity to see a true showbusiness legend live on stage for a wonderful evening of comedy, laughter and music.

Des O’Connor will be performing at the Grand Theatre Blackpool on Sunday 7 July at 7:30pm.

Tickets £20.00 - Booking and Transaction Fees Apply

For the fastest way to book tickets for any show visit The Grand’s interactive website www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk where you can select your own seat! Alternatively call the Box Office on 01253 743339.

Opportunity For Local Artists In St Annes

St Annes based musician Guy Pople is launching a local arts project in the town and is offering all local artists the opportunity to have their work displayed in public.

Guy explains: " The purpose of Back West Art Trail is to transform the bare brick walls of Back West Crescent in St Annes with local original art. Local artists are invited to introduce themselves and upload a samples of their art for inclusion in a database which will be presented to St Annes businesses, with a view to securing sponsorship for the costs of producing and hanging weatherproof panels.

"Businesses will be able to choose the piece they deem suitable. All art will reveal details of the Artist and Sponsor, which will hopefully drive interest and even sales for both. ZPQ Printers on Back West have agreed to produce the art onto Foamex boards in batches of 6 at a time. A number of businesses have shown interest in sponsoring so we can make a start but I need a database of local art to present businesses so that they can choose with confidence.

"Any artists interested should  join this open group https://www.facebook.com/groups/470412869712982/ where they can present a sample and then drop off a high-quality scan or photo into my studio on Back West Crescent. "

 

For more information, contact Guy via Facebook or at Dark Halo Music, Back West Crescent, St Annes, FY81SN

www.darkhalo.biz 

 

Motor Neurone Disease Charity Film Screening At Nelson ACE CEntre - 21st June 2013

AWARD-WINNING FEATURE DOCUMENTARY, I Am Breathing, WILL screen at the ACE Centre IN Nelson on the 21^st June 2013, AS part of a Global Screening Day to HELP raise awareness of Motor Neurone Disease.

Local fundraiser for the Motor Neurone Disease Association, Debra Denney, joined up with the ACE Centre - a destination for arts, culture and enterprise in the region - to arrange one of the few screenings of the film in the North West on the 21^st June.

I Am Breathing is a film about 34-year-old Neil Platt as he ponders the last months of his life. Within a year, he goes from being a healthy young father to becoming completely paralysed from the neck down, as a result of MND.

Knowing he only has a few months left to live, and while he still has the ability to speak, Neil puts together a letter and memory box for his baby son Oscar to tell the story of his life.  His goal of raising awareness for this terrible disease was the purpose of this film and his blog, and excerpts from his blog have been used to narrate the film itself.

As an NHS worker, Debra’s involvement in MND started when she cared for a lady with the disease at Pendleside Hospice. So effected by the cruel and brutal nature of this condition, Debra started fundraising to fight back against an incurable disease that kills five people in the UK everyday.

This screening of I Am Breathing is the most recent of Debra’s many fundraising endeavours. Since 2004, she has raised over £8,000 for MND, climbing Mount Olympus, completing both the Mont Blanc and Inca trails, Debra is currently training to climb the three national peaks in 24 hours in August this year.  

The avid fundraiser said, “Neil’s journey towards the end of his life is filled with emotion and wit, which should be an inspiration to us all. Please support this unique experience by attending a screening of I Am Breathing, which will be watched all over the world on the 21^st June.”

The screening starts at 7.30pm on Friday 21^st June. Tickets are priced at £4.00 per person and are available from The ACE Centre, Cross Street.  Nelson, Lancashire, BB9 7NN.

Vintage Craft Fair at the Chadwick Hotel, Lytham St. Annes Saturday, 15th June 2013 12 noon till 4 pm

Why not go along and have a look at the Vintage Craft Fair on Saturday, 15th June 2013.

Entry free.   12 noon until 4 pm

Fabulous singer Kelly Johnson (below) will entertain. For further information check out the organiser's website -
www.hollowaysofpoulton.co.uk

The Chadwick Hotel
113 - 115 S. Promenade
Lytham St. Annes
Lancashire
FY8 1NP
Tel.:  01253 720061

Meet Miss Blackpool in Houndshill Shopping Centre - This Saturday 15th June 11am to 2pm

Reigning Miss Blackpool Kim Braithwaite and competition organiser Karen Cookson will be in Blackpool's Houndshill Shopping Centre this Saturday to launch the 2013 Miss Blackpool competition. 

Prospective entrants will have the opportunity to Kim and Karen and find out what is involved.  The 2013 heats will take place at G Casino on South Promenade on Thursday evenings from 20th June to 1st August and the competition is FREE to enter.

More information: www.missblackpool2013.co.uk

Try The "Faulty Towers Dining Experince" Live At Blackpool Grand Theatre - 8th to 13th July

Expect mayhem, hilarity and a good dollop of fun with Faulty Towers The Dining Experience live at the Grand Theatre from Monday 8 to Saturday 13 July!

Each ticket includes a three-course meal set on the Grand Theatre’s stage and two hours of side-splitting entertainment!

Join Basil, Sybil and Manuel in July 2013 for a dining experience like no other! The world tour of Faulty Towers The Dining Experience is coming to Blackpool’s Grand Theatre  for a two hour eat, drink and laugh sensation...you won’t want the meal to end!

Faulty Towers The Dining Experience starts as the audience waits to be seated then hurtles along for two hours of fully immersive, highly improvised and site-specific comedy theatre. With only a third of the show scripted, everything stays fresh as Basil, Sybil and Manuel serve a three-course meal with a good dollop of mayhem – while the audience play the part of their restaurant diners. Do expect all the best gags and a rip-roaringly hilarious night out...just don’t mention the war!

Experience a meal like no other in the surroundings of the beautiful Matcham designed Grand Theatre with non-stop entertainment throughout...a truly unique night out all set on the Grand Theatre’s stage!

For the meal of a lifetime come along to Faulty Towers The Dining Experience at the Grand Theatre from Monday 8 to Saturday 13 July.

Monday to Saturday evenings 7:00pm, Saturday lunch 12:30pm. All tickets include a three-course dinner and a two hour show.

 £42.50 per person or £350 for a table of 10 people. 

 

For the fastest way to book tickets for any show visit The Grand’s interactive website www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk where you can select your own seat! Alternatively call the Box Office on 01253 743339.

Tubular Bells For Two At Blackpool Grand Theatre - one night only: 23rd June

Two talented musicians will be bringing Mike Oldfield’s Tubular Bells masterpiece to life in Tubular Bells ‘For Two’ at the Grand Theatre Blackpool on Sunday 23 June 2013!

When Mike Oldfield released his 1973 masterpiece Tubular Bells, it required more than 30 musicians to perform it. Now, 40 years on, performed by just two massively talented musicians, this thrilling show recreates the album on stage in a unique and compelling theatrical experience.

“This two man orchestra brings the soundtrack of 70s back to life... an intensely focused race around every twist and turn of Oldfield's quirky masterwork.” The Times

The original 1973 album shot to number one around the world, throwing its young composer into the international spotlight and kick-started Richard Branson’s Virgin Empire. Now forty years later, two Australian multi-instrumentalists race from instrument to instrument  juggling pianos, organs, guitars, mandolin, drums, glockenspiel, loop pedals, synthesizers and, of course, Tubular Bells.

Tubular Bells ‘For Two’ burst onto the international scene at the Sydney Festival and was the smash-hit show of the 2012 Edinburgh Festival Fringe - winning a Herald Angel Award and garnering several five star reviews.

Join us to witness this herculean feat as Daniel Holdsworth and Aidan Roberts  recreate the beauty and playful lunacy of one of the most important albums of the 20th Century with just four hands and four feet.

 
For a night of incredible music, come and see Tubular Bells ‘For Two’
on Sunday 23 June at 7:30pm at the Grand Theatre Blackpool.

Tickets £22.50 - Booking and Transaction Fees Apply

For the fastest way to book tickets for any show visit The Grand’s interactive website www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk where you can select your own seat! Alternatively call the Box Office on 01253 743339.

 

Stepping Out at Blackpool Grand Theatre - 14th to 16th June

Poulton Drama presents the toe-tapping Stepping Out at the Grand Theatre from Thursday 14 to Saturday 16 June.

 The Grand Theatre is pleased to welcome back the well established local theatre group Poulton Drama with their feel-good take on the classic musical Stepping Out.

A group of women and one man meet weekly for a tap-dance class in a dingy church hall struggling to conquer their inhibitions-and a preponderance of left feet!

This feel-good comedy concentrates on the group as they gradually move from stumbling acquaintances with each other to forge a team worthy of performing to an outside audience.

They all have their own reasons for being in the class and they let the audience in on stories about their lives, hopes and anxieties.

It all comes down to the spectacular finale-will they be able to overcome their nerves to carry it off? Come and watch Stepping Out at The Grand to find out!

Poulton Drama is a long established local theatre group specialising in cutting edge drama. With top quality actors and backstage team they have won many awards and accolades, most recently for Arthur Miller’s The Crucible. They last appeared at the Grand Theatre in May 2012 with the brilliant play-version of Blood Brothers and are set to wow audiences again with Stepping Out in June.

All tickets £10.00 Concessions £8.00

Booking/Transaction Fees Apply. 

For the fastest way to book tickets any show, visit The Grand’s website blackpoolgrand.co.uk where you can select your own seat! Alternatively call the Box Office on 01253 74 33 39

Don’t forget - Parking is available at a discounted rate at the secure West Street Car Park, directly opposite the theatre’s entrance. Book your parking ticket when you book your show tickets from the Box Office and you can have parking from 5.30pm until 12.30am for only £2.50!

6th July 2013 - Blackpool: Fun Day Out to Raise Money for the Royal Marine Charities

From the Chairman of the Fylde Ex-service Liaison Committee:

Since 1664 the Royal Marines have been defending Britain’s shores. Whenever called upon the men who wear the coveted Green Beret have delivered time and again with their trademark professionalism and modesty.

However in recent conflicts the Marines have paid a heavy price and in order to provide support to the men and families of those who have paid that price Royal Marine Charities have issued a challenge to raise £6 million by the 350th anniversary of the Royal Marines Corps in October 2014.

To support this challenge the Blackpool Branch of the Royal Marine Association have organised a sponsored Commando Yomp from Blackpool Cenotaph to Cleveleys and back, a distance of 9 miles.

However this isn’t a race, it’s more a fun day out to raise some money for a very worthy cause and we want as many people as possible to come out and show their support for the lads. The route will follow the promenade and is therefore suitable for people with a disability and as well as individual entries we would particularly like to see family teams, local businesses, Cadet Units and supervised school groups taking part.

Every participant of the event which takes place on 6^th July 2013 will receive a commemorative medal (see below) to mark the occasion and entry is only £5.

For more information and to take part please contact:

Paul Deacon on 07810 330073 or email: pdeacon1@gmail.com

If you cannot come along but would like to support the cause then online donations are also welcome by visiting www.justgiving.com/BlackpoolRMAYomp13

Finally please send this to as many other people that you know who may be interested in supporting this very worthy cause

“I never knew an appeal to them for honour, courage or loyalty that they did not realise

more than my expectations. If ever the hour of real danger should come to England,

they will be found the country’s sheet anchor”.

Sir John Jervis, Earl of St Vincent on the role of the Royal Marines

Tea Dance at Hoylake Festival of Firsts, Hoylake, Wirral, Saturday, 13th July 2013

The Devil's Porridge Museum, Eastriggs,DG12 6TQ, Scotland

The Devil's Porridge is an exhibition telling the story of the greatest munitions factory on earth.  Opened in 1915 when Britain was losing the First World War because they did not have enough ammunition.

More than 30,000 men and women from all corners of the world came to work in the huge factory on the Solway.

So for something truly inspirational why not go and have a look?

They are at Daleside, Eastriggs which is between Gretna and Annan.

Opening from 31st March until 28th October Monday - Saturday 10 am till 4 pm and Sunday 12 pm - 4pm   Admission Prices:  £3.50 for adults;  £2.50 for Over 60s.   Family ticket:  2 adults and 3 children costs £8

Further details are on www.devilsporridge.co.uk  or call 01461 700021.

There is also an appeal running at the moment to raise sufficient funds to have a statue to the memory of the munitions workers whose contribution to the war effort can sometimes be forgotten.

The Devil's Porridge, Daleside, Butterdales, Eastriggs, DG12 6TQ

Fleetwood Museum Trust presents "Unsinkable" a commemoration of the Titanic in Lancashire, Fleetwood Museum, 20th June 2013 - 2nd November 2013

One year on from the Centenary of the sinking of RMS "Titanic" on the night of 14th - 15th April 1912, an exhibition to be held at Fleetwood Museum, Lancashire will explore details of the disaster and Lancashire's connection to the tragedy.

For further information and for exhibition opening times, etc., please call 01253 876621 or see www.fleetwoodmuseum@lancashire.gov.uk

83rd Thames Sailing Barge Match, Saturday 13th July 2013 - Erith, Kent

The 83rd Thames Sailing Barge Match, the annual race that takes place in the Thames Estuary will this year be held in Memory of Captain Mark Boyle (1957 - 2012), who was Match Secretary from 1995 until 2012.

The Race was first held in 1863 and features the beautiful Thames Sailing Barges.

For further details please see www.thamesmatch.co.uk

The Thames Sailing Barge Match is funded entirely by donations from individuals and organisations.

The photo is of Cambria - Fastest Barge over the Course in 2012 and Coasting Class Champion in 2012, 2011, 1938 and 1927.

Karima Francis and her new band Live Debut at Blitz in Preston, Saturday, 22nd June 2013

Pendle Hippodrome Theatre Summer Season

With thanks to Milly Greenwood for letting us know what the fabulous Pendle Hippodrome Theatre is up to this summer.

For further details, please contact Milly on millyg@btinternet.com  or see the Theatre's website on www.phtheatre.co.uk


PENDLE HIPPODROME THEATRE
New Market Street
COLNE
Lancashire BB8 0NY

Tel.:  01282 863210

Female Poets Exhibition at Nelson Ace Centre - 15th August to 3rd September 2013

For more details, go to: www.femalewarpoets.blogspot.co.uk

Urban Altitude - New Urban Playground For Colne - Opens 8th June

Urban Altitude – a unique adventure playground in Colne – opens to the public on Saturday, June 8th.

After months of speculation and leaving motorists driving along Vivary Way wondering, Pendle Leisure Trust can finally reveal the purpose of the giant framework. It is the first of its kind to be built in the UK in an urban town centre location and measuring a massive 42ft.

The outdoor pursuit, situated behind Pendle Leisure Centre, off Crown Way, features a 60metre zip-wire, a Leap of Faith, power-fan, Jacobs Ladder, climbing wall and high and low rope courses built around a main activity tower.

Visitors have to make their way from station to station using a series of aerial ropes and ‘stepping stones’, with qualified instructors assisting them through their ‘journey’.

Urban Altitude is a joint venture between Pendle Leisure Trust and Alliance Leisure and supported by Pendle Borough Council. It will be run by a manager and a team of industry-leading qualified instructors.

For more information, check out: www.urban-altitude.co.uk

CD Release: ZTT Various Artists - Zambient One / Out 3rd June

ZTT – Various Artists - Zambient One

Release date: 3^rd June / Format: CD / SALVOCD061

·         Digitally Remastered from the original master tapes by Fine Spice for superb sound quality

·         Deluxe pocket pack comes with beautifully-illustrated 8 page booklet

A new concept in ZTT compilations, Zambient One draws from the catalogues of the most celebrated acts on the label (Art Of Noise, Propaganda, Frankie Goes To Hollywood, 808 State) but selects some rather different remixes to keep things interesting and add a sophisticated twist.
Sprinkle on some laid-back dance floor delights, slinky selections by the like of Hoodlum Priest, Instinct, Novecento and L.a.z.y. and leaven with a handful of classics from the Stiff Records archive – Tracey Ullman’s wonderful reading of The Waitresses I Know What Boys Like, a 21^st century re-boot of Jona Lewie’s Always Find Me In The Kitchen At Parties and Mint Juleps’ exalted take on Neil Young’s Only Love Can Break Your Heart.

Then pick up the 6am Ambient Mix of Kirsty MacColl’s hit single Walking Down (or make the time stand still, if you prefer) with their blissful version of Fred Neil’s Dolphins.

In short, Zambient One is Zang Tuum Tumb’s very personal collection of modern day lullabies (and wake up calls). The soundtrack to an imaginary road movie that heads off from Sarm Studios in West London on a torrential Friday night and arrives at the burning embers of Studio Mediterraneo in Ibiza just in time for sunrise on Sunday.

It’s a highly involving trip; one that will leave you refreshed and relaxed, ready to hit the bar – and wanting to experience it all over again.

Track Listing:
01 – Art Of Noise – Moments of Love (Beating Hart’s Mix)
02 – Hoodlum Priest – Sex Spirit
03 – 808 State – Pacific (Justin Strauss Mix)
04 – L.A.Z.Y. – When We Were Young (Starfish Mix)
05 – Tracey Ullman – I Know What Boys Are Like
06 – Jona Lewie – Always Find Me In The Kitchen At Parties (Alkalino’s Rework)
07 – Frankie Goes To Hollywood – Relax (Sex Mix Edition 2)
08 – Instinct – Sleepwalking (12” Extended Mix)
09 – Novecento – Day and Night (David Morales’ Def Mix)
10 – Propaganda – Dream Within A Dream (Within A Dream)
11 – Kirsty MacCool – Walking Down Madison (6am Ambient Mix)
12 – Heights of Abraham – Dolphins
13 – Mint Juleps – Only Love Can Break Your Heart

THE 2013 GREAT BRITISH RHYTHM & BLUES FESTIVAL, COLNE - 23rd to 26th August

This August Pendle Leisure Trust is celebrating 24 years of bringing International Rhythm and Blues to Colne, Lancashire,

 

With more than 600 artistes performing at nine official venues over four days, Colne’s annual Great British Rhythm and Blues Festival is now as the key UK rhythm & blues festival on the UK calendar , held over the Bank Holiday weekend.

Following last year’s resounding success, there will be another afternoon of Jazz on the Sunday.

 

Gracing the Muni’s International Stage will be Rolling Stones legend Bill Wyman and his Rhythm Kings, Ginger Baker’s Jazz Confusion – look out for the new movie ‘Beware of Mr Baker’; Blues Music Awards nominee Joe Louis Walker, former Steely Dan  & Doobie Brothers guitar supremo , Elliott Randall’s New York All Stars, , Lil’ Jimmy Reed, Steve Phillips & The Rough Diamonds, Paul Lamb &The King Snakes, Chicago Blues Harmonica All Stars – featuring 3 of the biggest three harmonica legends in music - Charlie Musselwhite, Sugar Blue and Billy Branch; The Swing Commanders, The Jive Aces, Ian Siegal, King King and the Chas Hodges Band. Climax Blues Band return, as well as Chris Farlowe & The Norman Beaker Band, the ever-reliable Nine Below Zero, Dr Feelgood and The Pretty Things are back to stun the Muni audience once again.

 

British Stage highlights include the sensational hit of TV’s Andrew Marr Show – Blues Boy Dan Owen (now under the wing of Mick Fleetwood and soon to tour with ZZ Top), Krissy Matthews and Cliff Stocker’s Slack Alice, who are guaranteed to ram the leisure centre. Look out too, for The Revolutionaires, the Maz Mitrenko Band and Midnight Train with Sam Kelly & Debbie Giles.

 

The Acoustic Stage continues its reputation for ‘you should’ve been there’ performances, with Deborah Bonham returning after her barnstorming International Stage performance in 2009 and fresh from recent appearances with Steve Cropper and Paul Rodgers;  Krissy Matthews provides a chance to see him in a more intimate environment, with other performances coming from Gypsy Bill Williams & Del Potter; Dale Storr, Mike Sweeney & Paddy O’Hare and Babajak .

 

The Jessica Foxley Stage returns again, giving young, local musicians a rare opportunity to perform in front of the hundreds of fans on the British Stage through the four day event.

 

And The Great British Rhythm and Blues Festival will this year play host to the British Blues Awards, hopefully bringing even more people to the event.

 

The British Blues Awards recognises the best of Blues music, musicians and festivals in 15 different categories, including British Male and Female Vocalist, British Blues Band, British Instrumentalist and British Young Artist. The awards will be presented on the British Stage on the Sunday afternoon.

 

BBC Radio Lancashire will once again be broadcasting live from the British Stage at various times over the weekend.

  

For a full line-up, to find out more and to buy tickets, visit www.bluesfestival.co.uk.

3rd Annual Guitar Festival At ACE Centre, Nelson - Sunday 2nd June.

The 3rd annual Pendle Guitar Festival will be taking place at The ACE Centre in Nelson, on Sunday, June 2nd where live music, free guitar workshops, lessons and recording sessions, guitar valuations and a chance to buy, sell and trade new, used and vintage guitars will all be on offer.

ACE Centre studio engineer Andrea Quarin said: “The last two events were a tremendous success with people coming from all over to attend and now the Festival has become a firm favourite with musicians.”

Pendle Guitar Festival, which is being sponsored by Forsyth Music Shop in Deansgate, Manchester and the Swap Shop in Leeds Road, Nelson, will take place from 10am to 4pm.

Andrea added: “There will be lots happening, including live Acoustic, Country, Rock and Blues guitar performances and workshops given by Stuart Ryan, Gwyn Ashton and Adam Palma.

“There will also be free guitar lessons for all levels and a chance to make a free 10 minute recording in our studio, as well as stalls selling guitars, amps and related items, plus a display of vintage guitars.

“People can also bring along their own guitar for a free evaluation with the possibility of selling it to traders.

“This will be any musician or music-lover’s dream day out.” 

Tickets cost £4 in advance and £5 on the door. To book, or for more information, call (01282) 661080.

20p Student Coffee Events At Ace Centre, Nelson during June

Acoustic artists in East Lancashire are invited to play at a series of special college student events at the ACE Centre in Nelson during June.

Andrea Quarin from the ACE Centre said: "We will have a college student's 20p coffee events through June and we would like to put some acoustic acts during the events. Students from around the Pendle area will come to our bistro at The Ace Centre in Nelson between 4pm and 6pm and we will offer them coffee and teas at 20p each and free wifi. We are doing this in order to engage with the young community.

"This could be a great spot for artists to engage too with the younger audience. I was wondering if you could give a shout out to all your contacts to see if some artists are interested in playing. It will need to be strictly acoustic and although we won't be able to pay the artists, we will give them a couple of free pints. They will be able to sell CD's too."

The dates of the events are: 12th, 13th,19th, 20th, 26th and 27th June.

Anybody interested in playing should contact the Ace centre on 01282 661080 or visit the website at: www.acecentre.co.uk

New Ice Hockey Team Launches In Widnes

A new senior ice hockey team has been launched at the recently opened Silver Blades rink at Widnes.  It is called Widnes Wild and will be run by team manager Mick Caunce who ran the Fylde Flyers team for two season at Cleveleys and head coach Nick Gillingham who was also at Fylde.

The first signings for the new club have been announced as:

Callum Riddick - a former Deeside Dragons player who also played roller hockey for GB.
Bobby Caunce - former Fylde Flyers and Lancashire Raptors forward
Ken Armstrong - a forward from Blackburn Eagles
Stewart Marriott - defenceman from Fylde Flyers.

The team is expected to play in Division 2 North of the National Ice Hockey League next season and open trials are being held from 6th June onwards prospective players to go and try out for place on the roster.

For more information, check out the official website at: www.widnesicehockey.co.uk

Ballroom Dancing News

PHILIP WYLIE  HOLIDAY AND DANCE PRESENTS ‘IT'S NOT TOO LATE’ To be part of our exciting May and June dance programme which includes a unique Social Dance package at the Tower Ballroom Blackpool and the ever-popular English Riviera Dance Festival at Torquay. Before you journey into our ‘Not Too Late’ dance delights we suggest a quick view on our major clicks shown below and then of course will be delighted if you continue your journey through our dance programme. Happy Dancing and Best Wishes

'IT'S NOT TOO LATE'

TOWER BALLROOM BLACKPOOL 24th – 26th May 2013 The world famous and unique Tower Ballroom offers an outstanding dance experience with 3 days of social dancing for all. The exciting programme includes Coffee Dances, Tea Dances, Gala Evenings, Champions in Cabaret, Learn & Improve sessions, together with recording star Richard Keeling providing great live music. You can buy tickets on the door for all sessions. Click for leaflet 31ST ENGLISH RIVIERA DANCE FESTIVAL 31ST MAY – 7TH JUNE 2013 The popular Victoria Hotel Torquay offers a warm welcome, wonderful facilities and superb ballrooms. The outstanding programme includes dancing in two ballrooms, Learn & Improve sessions, Master-classes and 2 Gala evenings in the Town Hall with ‘Strictly Stars’ and British Champions in Cabaret. Choose your length of stay. If you download the leaflet you will see options not only for residents but also a choice of session tickets and season tickets for non- residents who are not on the hotel package. Click for leaflet ST. AUDRIES BAY SOMERSET 14th – 17th JUNE 2013 ST AUDRIES BAY HOLIDAY CLUB beautifully situated on the Somerset coast offering scenic delight, great walks and many outstanding attractions within easy reach. Great choice of casual comfort in caravans / bungalows / lodges & chalets or a touring pitch plus self-catering or part-board options. The evening dance programme is not only for those who can dance but also for those who would like to learn or improve. Click for leaflet SUMMER DANCE BREAK – ST. ANNES 21ST – 24TH JUNE 2013 The delightful sea facing INN ON THE PROM (St. Annes, Lancashire) offers not only a delightful ballroom but excellent comfort and facilities including Nivens Health Club & Spa. Full dance programme includes Young Dance Stars in Cabaret. Click for leaflet THEATRE & DANCE – SPECIAL OFFER BURN THE FLOOR Shaftesbury Theatre Top price tickets only £29.50!* (usually £57) Quote ‘HOLIDAY AND DANCE’ when calling the Box Office on 020 7379 5399 or going online to www.burnthefloor.com Burn The Floor is the ultimate high-voltage theatrical experience exploding with jaw-dropping choreography, heart-pounding music and breath-taking dance moves. From seriously sexy to irresistibly charming, the most talented ensemble of dancers in London join forces with two sensational singers and a live band in an electrifying production ‘that will have you leaping out of your seat to join in‘ Heat Magazine. Not just a feel good but a feel fantastic show – don’t miss your chance to experience Burn The Floor before it leaves London on 30 June. ANOTHER SPECIAL OFFER A Christmas ‘Early Bird’ offer for the famous ‘CHRISTMAS HOUSE DANCE PARTY’ at the Victoria Hotel Torquay. Deadline is 30th June for a special saving of £30 pp Download your Christmas leaflet now Click for leaflet For our full Diary of Dance events please download ‘What When Where’ DANCE TIP SO YOU WANT TO BE A BETTER DANCER Many who go dancing whether it be monthly, fortnightly, weekly, daily or even twice daily can be quite content with whatever dance steps they have learnt and do not wish to progress further. Why should they – dancing is not about a standard but personal and shared enjoyment. But there are those who wish to improve their dance performance for reasons of personal satisfaction. You might be seeking to know more choreography or maybe better partnering or leading skills, whatever the objective it is worth considering how best it can be achieved. You are probably going to dance classes or having private lessons either with a partner or without. At the sessions for inexperienced dancers you may quite simply be looking for further information on steps and how to execute them. For more advanced dancers you might wish for the dancing to feel better or look better. It is worth remembering dancers usually develop their performance in 3 ways – what they see, what they are told and what they feel when dancing with someone more experienced. Obviously we can learn from all 3 elements but sometimes as individuals one of the elements can be more meaningful, for example a gentleman dancer often needs a detailed explanation to lead well whereas the female sometimes picks up the action from the feel alone. Developing new techniques, posture or new body positions to one another can take time, maybe it will feel foreign, change the feeling of unison between man and lady, even in some cases the overall dance feel for a particular rhythm. Don’t despair, practice and mental perseverance will change an old muscle memory to maybe a new and more exciting action and posture with greater freedom for you and your partner plus the bonus of more attractive rhythmic interpretation. If you have that desire to know more, feel and look better don’t lose this, please foster it, you will have a lifetime of happy and self-absorbing dance experience before you. Happy Dancing! info@holidayanddance.co.uk www.holidayanddance.co.uk