Issue Twelve Of Image 34 Magazine

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Issue Twelve --------------------------------Cover Image 34 features it’s first mature cover stars!

We interview and talk to mature men and women working in the creative industry.

------------------------------Singing Ladies -One of the biggest new stars to the soprano world right now Margaret Keys -­‐Singer Jo Jo Osmond talks to photographer Steph L Nyunt as she photographs her on set -­‐ Clara Bond returns for her third feature -----------------------------------

Issue Twelve --------------------------------Food For Thought Brand new features writer Eleanor Jones first piece talks all things from femminism and "sex symbol" pop stars -----------------------------------Photography More stunning submissions to share.

----------------------------------Health Sapphire Elia addresses PMS and tips to ease the pain.

Daskalo joins the team for his first health piece!

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EDITORS LETTER The main shoot and feature for Issue Twelve came about when someone got in touch with the magazine. They asked why Image 34 only featured younger artists within our pages. This was not intentional however just the people we knew who were currently working on things.

So we got in touch with a friend who works in the industry and asked if she would help us put this together.

We wanted to do one big shoot with mature men and women who were working in the industry. That could be actors, singers or even just people working within the creative industry. We wanted to showcase that just because you are more mature artists your passion for what you love doesn’t fade. It doesn’t mean even if you have settled into a day job you have given up on your dreams. So for issue twelve our big feature is all about promoting the mature artist. We shot the main feature in The Princes Hall in Aldershot. We had been talking about collaborating with the hall for quite some time. So it was great to finally piece this all together. The hall did a wonderful set up on the stage for us.

So we hope you enjoy our other approach on the issue and we wish you a brilliant Christmas and new year when we will see you for our next issue.

Editor In Chief Michael Sweeney

Clara Bond Clara Bond welcome back to your third feature!! So of course by now most people must know you are from our past features. But once again just explain a little bit about who you are.

I’m a singer songwriter. I would call myself a pop artist with a country ‘twang’.

So your brand new single “Hands Up” is out now!

What inspired this single?

I started getting really weary of people in the industry telling me who and what I should be. I was doubting myself because I

thought “these people must have my best interest at heart”. I was being told to “sex up” or that my music should be “more Katy Perry” and then it was “more Taylor Swift” and then they changed their mind and it was “Clara you should be a dub step artist”. That’s when I stopped listening to it all. I realised that I’m a songwriter, and that I am perfectly entitled to write and make the kind of music that I want to. I want to be the first “Clara”. However cheesy that might sound.

What did you want to achieve with this single?

I wanted to show a side to me that I feel I have been

hiding. Sometimes in this industry as woman if you stand up for yourself you are considered bossy or stand-offish. For a while I was so afraid of people having that misconception of me that I wouldn’t stand up for myself and my music when it was threatened, but I have seen the light!

What do you hope fans will take from this single?

I hope they realise that I have something to say and that I’ll always say it.

I hope that they like the edgier sound in the production. I do have a soft side to me too which I want to show fans in my next release. I’m in love with the songs I’m writing at the moment.

Who came up with the idea for the music video and why?

Anyone who knows me knows I fancy Lara Croft and I’m not ashamed to admit it! So when the director told me his idea for me to be hunted in the woods, you can imagine my eyes lighting up like a kid in a candy store. I’m not sure I was quite as badass though. That would really take some doing. Whilst filming the final scene, I moved my head out from behind the tree at the worst possible time and got hit in the face with a water balloon. I love how unglamorous that is!

How does it feel creating music again?

I haven’t stopped creating

it, to be honest. It had been a while since I released something new but I never stopped working in the studios. I’m always writing. For me it’s more of a necessity than work.

Sometimes if i’m going through something I like to simplify it in my head by writing a song about it. It just sort of clarifies everything for me.

Is there an E.P on the way?

mind. I’m totally addicted to it now, it’s such an adrenaline rush after playing acoustically for so long. The songs I’m writing at the moment are a little different. In my lyrics, I used to hide my feelings in metaphors and i don’t want to do that as much anymore. I just want to tell it how it is and be really open emotionally and have that reflect into my songwriting.

When can fans expect a release?

Oh you know it!

Anything you can tell us about it? What it might sound like?

I have been performing with a full band recently, so I’m sure we’ll do something with that in

Early next year. I won’t let there be as much time between releases from now on. Brownie promise!

Any last shout-outs?

I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone who

has continually supported my music. Please don’t leave me! haha.

-------------------------------------To buy “Hands Up” click here.

To watch the brand new video click here.

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Margaret Keys When did you first start singing?

I started singing lessons at the age of 4. I went with my twin sister Rosemary. At that age it was all geared towards fun and making new friends. My lesson was on a Saturday morning just before we had a dip in the local swimming pool.

What led you into music?

Singing and music was a very natural part of our family life. My whole family love singing and music. I suppose it is just an Irish way of life. My grandmother won the Deanna Durbin competition when she was just sixteen. I entered local and Irish singing festivals and wonthe medal from Trinity

College London, for the best performer in music exams in the UK at 15years old. By the time I entered my teenage years, it all inspired me to think: could singing and music be a career for me? Now music and singing is a huge part of who I am. Â Of course your choice of music to sing is a far cry from the pop world younger women head towards. What made you go for this style?

I suppose I grew up with classical, musical theatre and traditional music. My parents also gave me a great start by sending me to singing and piano lessons.

Although I appreciate all styles and genres of music, I seemed to excel in the more classical side of music. Although none of my family worked as

professional musicians, music was always a big part of our family life. I was very close to my grandparents and they introduced me to some great singers, songs and films. I fell in love with the real classics and loved to watch Julie Andrews, Doris Day, Deanna Durbin, Kathyrn Grayson. I suppose it was old-fashioned but I was a typical “girly girl” and loved the romance of the songs that they sang and of course the dresses that they wore!

In saying that, it’s always important to reinvent yourself so I am open to a lot of different forms of singing, even though I could never see myself going down the pop route. I like to sing traditional works in addition to crowd pleasing songs with a 'touch of class' so to speak. I take what you would call a 'classical crossover' approach to it, singing

classics that everyone loves with a bit of a modern twist.

I’m always looking to add a little extra to a famous song and at times call upon my Irish heritage and style to make it “my own”.

Congratulations on your First Class Honours Degree in music. But how did it feel to be given a scholarship to train at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music & Drama?

I remember very clearly the morning I received the letter. I knew how great an opportunity it was for me as a Conservatoire of music is tough to get into let alone be awarded a scholarship.

What was the best thing anyone has ever taught you?

"Your talent is a gift to you, what you do with it is your gift to others” and While success is one thing, you’ve also got to love what you do.

Of course you were on the BBC’s “How do you solve a problem like Maria” which saw you get into the final cut. What was it like working alongside Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber?

It was a great experience and one from which I learned quite a bit about how hard you have to work and the sacrifices that you need to make at times within the industry. He was very supportive to all involved and I was fortunate to be awarded the BBC Musical Theatre Bursary.

This enabled me to travel to Broadway and to work and study with Opera New York and Broadway stars.

How did it feel to release your debut album “Legato” internationally?

Most artists seem to start performing in their homeland and build up an

international career. I guess you could say I started the other way around!

It’s great to be acknowledged internationally. I have been fortunate to have released and performed my music in America, Australia, New Zealand, Europe and within the last year and a half the UK. While I’m fortunate that my audiences like to physically own my albums, ultimately I’m all about live performing – I just want to keep singing as a solo artist in front of as many audiences as possible. I’m never more at “home” when I’m performing and I’m quite the typical “Irish girl”….I love to talk and get to know my audiences. I find that it ultimately breaks the barriers between them and you as “the artist”. It allows them to get to know you as a person. I am all about giving an “all-rounded” performance.

To have the ability to make people both smile and cry.

Singing is a very powerful form

of communication. It can reflect our own experiences, thoughts and hopes. As a singer, I need to feel and experience what the song is all about and the meaning will automatically ring true to the audience. When I see a tear or a smile I know I'm doing my job right!

You have also performed all over the world. Where has been your favourite place to sing?

That’s a tough one. I have been fortunate to perform in some wonderful venues and locations. I just love performing in beautiful concert halls. Some of the most beautiful have been in Ireland and UK. I have also performed in some great open air and prom events with live orchestras which have also been highlights.

However, if I was to choose one, I think I would have to choose St Patricks Cathedral

in New York. I grew up singing in cathedrals throughout Ireland and have always loved the acoustics and stillness of performing in churches. I remember, whilst I was studying in New York, I visited St Patrick’s Cathedral quite a few times. I would never have thought then that I would be invited to perform there as a soloist with an award- winning Welsh Choir.

Of course you have a huge list more of achievements that we haven’t been able to mention. But what would you say has been your proudest and most memorable achievement?

I suppose people would say that achievements are created through hard work, which I suppose is true in a way.

However, I might never have had the opportunity, courage and indeed passion to pursue my dreams and ambitions if it hadn’t been for my parents and family.

Yes, I have won awards,

performed with some wonderful people and in great venues and become an ambassador for the Prince’s Trust. However, the proudest, most memorable yet toughest performance was just a few months ago.

My father passed away very suddenly and unexpectedly.

I knew that I would sing at his funeral. Not because I needed to or was asked to, but because I wanted to.

There was no bigger follower of my singing than my dad. He was a truly wonderful person and played a huge role in my life. Performing at his funeral was an honour. I was, and always will be, proud of him and my family.

I certainly sang with a proud heart that day. I am their biggest fans!

What’s next?

Margaret will join Paul Potts on his upcoming UK and

Ireland Tour “One Chance”. She is now recording new music for new upcoming projects, due to perform at high profile events and concerts as well as continuing her work as ambassador with The HRH Prince’s Foundation for Children and the Arts. She is also the Face of the Irish arts Festival for 2014 and 2015. For all dates and news of Margaret’s forthcoming events and performances connect with her official pages ……

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Pop Music & Femminism

By Elly Jones

Before you go ahead and read this article, please remember; I am not and have never claimed to be a feminist experts, I’m just your everyday feminist that struggles with the expectations put upon women, the complexities of female sexuality and the general sexualisation of women in every context. I’m just here to question and explore, won’t you figure this out with me?

Pop music and the women that run it are becoming the go-to role models for young girls across the globe.

They’ve quickly become some of the most talked about, loved, slated, criticised and glorified women in contemporary society. Their barely covered

bodies are plastered over magazines, television and the internet; both with and without their consent. It’s never been a secret that sex sells but what I want to know is, how healthy is it for women to look up to these idolised females and how has societies sexualisation of them, impacted feminism as a movement? Women are still being sexualised on a daily basis, in everyday situations and it’s no different for these supposedly ‘untouchable’ female artists. I want to take a look at some of the most famous female vocalists in the music industry today and ask; how has the complexities of female nudity affected feminism in pop culture?

It seems to me, that in the past couple of years, critics and fans

have been really questioning how far the sexualisation of female popstars has gone and who, if anyone, we should be blaming for it? Cast your mind back to 2002, when Christina Aguilera donned a pair of crotch-less, leather trousers and shook various parts of her body to the hit song ‘Dirty’. I was eleven at the time and, correct me if I’m wrong, I seriously cannot remember anybody telling me that was demeaning or perhaps ‘wrong’. As far as I could remember, everybody wanted to copy her dance moves and grow slightly gungy dreads. It is interesting then that today, the slightest suggestion of female sexuality in popmusic is deemed antifeminist, offensive and morally wrong. Does this mean feminism has come to a point where we’re noticing how un-necessary sexually explicit songs, dancing and music videos

are for female artists or, are we judging women more than ever, to showing off their sexual, sensual side?

A really interesting young woman in the music industry is Miley Cyrus. Her transformation from tween idol Hannah Montana to booty-twerking, wrecking ball straddling, crotch grabbing pop diva has been one that’s been met with both celebration and controversy. I, like a lot of young women, are completely torn in my views of Cyrus as a singer. On the one hand, why shouldn’t a young woman, who desperately wants to rid herself of the squeaky clean farce she once played (she’s an actress, if you don’t understand they’re NOT their character, I can’t help you), use her grown, female sexuality as a way of announcing her identity? Then, on the other hand, when I see her rolling around in money on her tour stage, gyrating her crotch, while dollar bills are stuffed into a skimpy leotard, I

can’t help but think; isn’t this just reaffirming that hideous misconception that a woman’s sexuality is for sale and means nothing more than a few dollars? It’s so difficult, as young women; to decide what you think is constructive for the feminist movement, when you’re programmed to enjoy these easy listening tunes, but feel a little ashamed in doing so?

It is something that Cyrus has discussed in recent interviews and I’m not going to lie- she kind of makes sense. Speaking to Tavi Gevinson, the founder of Rookie magazine, Cyrus mentioned; "I still don't think we're there 100 percent. I mean, guy rappers grab their crotch all fucking day and have hos around them, but no one talks about it. But if I grab my crotch and I have hot model bitches around me, I'm degrading women?

I'm a woman -- I should be able to have girls around me!

But I'm part of the evolution of that. I hope”. It is difficult to dispute that, that male singers and rap stars talk about women’s bodies in a degrading and sexist way, with very little being done about it, but if a female artists dares to celebrate and advertise her sexuality, she’s working against feminism? On the other hand, I have to argue, a woman’s sexuality goes beyond the sight of her being surrounded by other beautiful women, shaking their arses and waving their breasts in the faces of their adoring audiences. It’s difficult to look at female sexuality as anything other than superficial when stars are parading themselves around just like that. Still, I think it’s wrong to be demonising Miley Cyrus for exploring her identity, sexual or otherwise, it can’t be easy growing up in that environment, with men sexualising you before you’ve properly hit puberty, it’s no surprise she is trying to carve her own feminist path.

I recently read an article from Pride Source where super-star Annie Lenox talked openly about how she feels when it comes to Beyoncé and her recent MTV Music Video performance. Beyoncé killed on stage and proudly projected the word ‘FEMINIST’ to the audience and everyone watching at home. On this topic, Lennox replied; “I would call that "feminist lite." L-I-T-E. I'm sorry.

It's tokenistic to me”. This completely rubbed me up the wrong way; I think when women like Beyoncé, who are hugely influential to a young, female audience, proclaims that she is a feminist (by definition, somebody who believes in political, social and economic equality between men and women), then they are reaching out to women everywhere, saying that it is ok to call yourself a feminist.

This has got to be only a good thing, we cannot

pretend that both men and woman aren’t still embarrassed or afraid to call themselves a feminist due to the negative connotations that word so wrongly possesses.

I just can’t help but feel that these women are damned if they do and damned if they don’t. It hardly seems fair and I have to question, does everything a feminist does HAVE to be a feminist act? Am I going to feminist hell because I know the words to THAT Robin Thicke song? I really hope not, because what’s so frustrating about that stupid song is that I had no idea it was so offensive at first. With its catchy beat and hey-heyhey’s, I thought; hell yeah, what a great summer anthem.

Then I sat down and read the lyrics and a cold sweat began to sheen from my brow, I have put money into this gross song without even knowing it was as misogynistic as it is! Surely then, if I’m not the only feminist who has been tricked by these popular songs into a

false sense of innocence, it is not those listening that need to change, but those making the songs. Instead of damning these pop female legends about showing off their beautiful bodies, we could you know…stop sexualising them from the get go?

I suppose what I’m really confused about is, if we all believe in the same thing, what makes somebodies feminism better than somebody else’s? I thought female empowerment and the celebration of women is something that goes hand in hand with feminism? I’m so bored of seeing headlines about female pop artists, going head to head with one another in some sick, supposed cat fight? Or when I look at music video channels and they’re proudly promoting an hour of ‘NICKI MINAJ vs RHIANNA vs BEYONCE’, really? Gross.

No matter where you stand when it comes to feminism

in pop culture and the way it changes when it comes to nudity, it is important to stick together as a movement; not only woman to woman, but men and women too because, surely, that is the best way to make feminism, the only way.

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Mary Heath When did you realise that you wanted to be working in the creaFve industry?

Can’t really remember, growing up I used to watch my mum on stage, we always sang together at the piano.

You have acFng in many shows with many different genres.

What was your favourite?

I love the old musicals but really enjoy a good old sing in operePa.

How did you first get involved in shows?

I started originally at school, lost my confidence in my teens but plucked up courage to do something about my secret wish in my.

late twenFes.

Do you find it hard being a mature actress?

Not really, as long as you accept that you arent going to get the young leads anymore.

Do you feel there is a prejudice against mature people wanFng to work within the creaFve field?

No I don’t think so.

What would you say to any other mature men and women wanFng to start working in the freelance industry?

Go for it, it’s fun.

What was it like geTng naked for the calendar girls?

ExciFng because it was a completely new challenge, but all in a good cause.

What’s next for you?

I’m playing Edith in a producFon of The Pirates of Penzance at the Farnham MalFngs in January.

Which you can buy now.

Violet Smithers When did you realise that you wanted to be working creaFvely?

It was when I was asked by my cousin to become involved in backstage work for her drama group at the University of Malaya.

You worked in Malaysia before coming over to England.

What was your favourite producFon to work on and why?

My favourite produc<on was “Fiddler on the Roof”. I played the part of Golde and the most beau<ful song that I had to sing was” Sunrise Sunset”

Not working in the industry for 26 years must have been tough.

What made you want to get back into it?

I think I just wanted to know if I sFll had it in me.

Do you find it hard being a mature actress?

No I don’t really.

Do you feel there is a prejudice against mature people wanFng to work within the creaFve field?

No, I really don’t think there is any prejudice against mature people in the creaFve field. You require different age groups for different characters.

What would you say to any other mature men and women wanFng to start working in the freelance industry?

Just go for it! It is exhilaraFng

What’s next for you?

I would love to sing in choirs or in an ensemble like I did in “BRAVA”

Any last shout-­‐outs?

Having a lot of encouragement from my husband, daughters and friends. I was told that if I did not do Amateur DramaFcs : A Musical Comedy with Alex Parker, I would regret it.

Christine Siddall You work for Mind Charity which deals with mental health. That is quite different to acFng. What got you into that?

I worked in finance for 20 years and wanted a complete change -­‐ to help the community through charity work. Mental health chariFes are less popular than others so I was keen to assist in this worthy cause.

When did you realise that you wanted to be working in the creaFve industry?

When I was 7 years old I was chosen by my form teacher to sing solo: "Phil the fluter's ball" (an Irish song!). I loved the experience, the happy faces and the applause. I've never stopped singing since that

Fme.

You have acFng in many shows with many different genres.

What was your favourite so far?

I loved the role of Grushinskaya in Grand Hotel & Chris in Calendar Girls. The characters are mature women with such resilience, belief in true love and friendship.

How did you get involved in that?

I belong to a group called FYS (innovaFve theatre fast) and they recommended I audiFon for the GTG show "Grand Hotel". That role gave me the confidence to join the fund raising producFon of "Calendar Girls",

Do you find it hard being a

mature actress?

It is difficult. I chose concert singing over acFng whilst raising my children in my 30s. On my return, I find that there are many young women cast in roles wriPen for mature actresses. Plus, there are fewer good roles for mature people!

Do you feel there is a prejudice against mature people wanFng to work within the creaFve field?

There is some prejudice. This stems from the media generally promoFng younger images. But lately there have been some improvements with female writers and directors promoFng mature roles. This is great news.

What would you say to any other mature men and women wanFng to start working in the freelance industry?

Look for posiFve role models, research the roles and take risks, you may be surprised at the result! Look at the success of mature actors in "Downton Abbey", "Calendar Girls".

What’s next for you?

I'm lucky enough to resemble Helen Mirren so I'm going to explore the look-­‐a-­‐like industry.

Plus, I'd love to start a small Gospel Singing group.

Any last shout-­‐outs?

I'm in "Thoroughly Modern Millie" in March 2015 for GTG at Ben Travers Theatre.

-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐

Eddie King What first got you into the creaFve industry?

I started out playing with video cameras and showing a keen interest in TV and Film. My grandfather ran a wedding video business and I began to learn the ropes from him.

I started to perform on stage at school playing the Ftle role in Jack and the Beanstalk at the age of six.

Which do you prefer most being on or behind the stage?

This is a really difficult quesFon as I have a keen interest in both.

I wouldn’t say one or the other as they are different beasts and theypresent their own unique challenges, but I love the fact that I get to spend my life doing a job that I love and play “at acFng” every now and again too.

Like your wife you also teach but with lighFng and design.

Would you recommend people who already work on the stage or those that want to move into working on it. To learn how to work backstage first?

I wouldn’t say that they need to learn backstage first, but it is advantageous for any actor, or those working in the profession, to have an understanding of how technical theatre and life “on the dark side” really works, just as anyone backstage should have an understanding of the challenge that any performer may face. Those onstage need to work with and appreciate those offstage and vice versa.

Do you find it hard being a mature actor?

I don’t consider my self to be a mature actor. An immature one, maybe. I think now, at my age, I have a solid grounding of experience behind me that allows me to bring much more to any role I do – either on or off stage – so I

don’t find it hard. I do look forward to, in my later years, playing some of the more mature roles that I am not currently suitable for.

Do you feel there is a prejudice against mature people wanFng to work within the creaFve field?

No, not at all. Theatre, and in parFcular Technical Theatre, is one of the few industries that may, if anything, show bias towards the more mature person who can bring with their maturity experience, knowledge and understanding of how things are done without ignoring the need to move forward with technology. The wonderful thing with Techncial Theatre is the more you do it, the more you learn and you’ll never stop learning because the subject maPer keeps evolving and geTng bePer. There are cheeky cheats that can be learned to aide your working life, but there will always be something new to learn, try, experiment with etc.

What would you say to any other mature men and women wanFng to start working in the

creaFve industry?

Don’t do it! Get a job that pays well......unless, like me, you really love it and then you’ll never be happier. Do this job because you love it and not because you’re trying to become rich and famous.

The thing I love about working in theatre is that 9 Fmes out of 10 I’m working with people who are just as passionate about the subject as I am and it is the only industry that I have worked in that I can say that. No one does it for the money!

What’s next for you?

I shall be lighFng Pantomime over the Christmas season and looking forward to my companies spring producFon.

Any last shout-­‐outs?

I don’t have my award speech wriPen yet, but I would like to thank all those people who have given me support over the years and to my wife for never stopping believing in me and always driving me to be the best that I can be.

Polly King What first got you into the creaFve industry?

I started dancing at an early age and was fortunate enough to have parents who treated me to theatre trips for my birthday and at Christmas each year.

Growing up in Wimbledon I had the opportunity to go to the Polka Children’s Theatre and the main Wimbledon Theatre which produced many large scale musicals before they transferred to London.

You now teach acFng, dancing and singing at a youth school.

Do you enjoy seeing people begin to love the industry you work in?

I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to work with students ranging from 5 to 18 years of age and to be able to pass on my knowledge and experience to them. It is a privilege to be a part of their creaFve development and to

assist them in exploring their arFsFc performances.

20 years of working in the industry must be tough. What struggles have you had to deal with?

For me, the fear of failure is the biggest struggle in this parFcular industry! You are your own worst criFc and don’t need others to point out the flaws that you spend your career trying to hide – or at least bluff your way through. The theatre “criFcs” can be your worst enemy, but on occasion they may just be your best friend.

What would you say to someone wanFng to work in the creaFve industry?

Go for it! Work hard, aim high, never give up. Trust your insFncts and always remember those that help you on the way up. They are probably going to be the ones that cushion your fall on the way back down!

Do you find it hard being a mature actress?

There will always be pros and cons to the age of an actress. I wouldn’t say that being a mature actress is any harder than when I first started out – if anything the process has become second nature through experience and the freedom of creaFvity takes precedent over the “must get it right” aTtude of an inexperienced performer.

There are some wonderful roles for the more mature performer and although I will, of course, regret the ingenue that I never got to play, I only hope I get the opportunity to find my Lady Bracknell, Shirley ValenFne or Cleopatra!

Do you feel there is a prejudice against mature people wanFng to work within the creaFve field?

I don’t feel there is any

prejudice against mature people wanFng to work within the creaFve field, but there are always going to be younger, potenFally bePer people chasing you up the ranks.

What would you say to any other mature men and women wanFng to start working in the creaFve industry?

The CreaFve Industry is tough.

It needs the wisdom and maturity of those men and women who have arFsFc and creaFve input. Without the mature members of the industry

giving insight, experience and pracFsed process the younger generaFon will miss out on the fundamental basics and history of the creaFve industry.

What’s next for you?

Currently working very hard teaching for three different youth theatre groups as well as running my theatre company,

CreaFve Minds. We have Charity Christmas Carols through December, a ValenFne’s Theatre Dinner coming up as well as some new and exciFng works with a group of A-­‐Level students for a Summer, Open-­‐air producFon.

Any last shout-­‐outs?

I would like to dedicate my shout-­‐out to all those starFng out in the business and I do this in memory of my inspiraFon, Jefferson Grieves, who sadly recently passed away at the age of 83. A superb actor, wonderful director and my good friend. I first met Jefferson when I was 15 in a producFon of The Dresser. I was playing Irene and, although I had appeared on stage numerous Fmes as a dancer, this was one of the first straight plays that I had done. Jefferson took me under his wing and offered support, guidance, knowledge and experience

along with his infinite wisdom. He went on to direct me in a number of producFons and I was thrilled to be able to share the stage with him in one of the last producFons he directed and performed in. I enjoyed many an evening at the theatre, with Jefferson giving me the historical and theatrical background to the performers, producFon and text as well as his very naughty sense of humour.

He taught me a great many “tricks of the trade” on stage as a performer, back stage as a member of the producFon team and off stage as director, choreographer, producer and audience member.

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Working Together How did you both meet?

Eddie and I met in a producFon of Rogers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella. I was playing in the Ftle role and Eddie was my Prince Charming.

We met, we married and the glass slipper sFll fits!

Our first meeFng happened about two months aqer we should have met originally. I was performing in an open-­‐air producFon in Guildford and Polly was supposed to be assisFng with the Stage Management but was unable to conFnue with her commitments and so we never met. This role reversal of me on

stage and Polly off didn’t last long and we finally met at the audiFons for Rogers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella. Tell us more about the company you have set up together?

CreaFve Minds started as a small scale theatre producFon company providing musical and theatrical entertainment to bring the community together, producing charity events which allowed anyone and everyone to take part and give something back to the local community.

We conFnued to “give back” by performing Carols at Christmas at local venues and residenFal nursing

homes raising money for local chariFes. We have supported local writers by performing new works of music and theatre, created new theatre projects offering theatrical performance opportuniFes to local amateur and professional performers and well as created opportuniFes to bring theatre to the community.

Polly and I both have a love of theatre and appreciate that it is not always accessible to everyone. We both believed strongly that we wanted to bring theatre to everyone – those who couldn’t go, wouldn’t go or had no real knowledge of what a performance could be all about.

SomeFmes to achieve your goals is to put your money where your mouth

is, and so we did and started CreaFve Minds in 2005.

What do you hope to achieve through it?

Our aim is to offer honest, creaFve, theatre preparaFon, parFcipaFon and performance opportuniFes to the local community. We want to create accessible theatre for all where the producFon values and final product are as important as the opportuniFes offered to the audience, cast and crew. We do this by including all areas of the local community from family friendly shows to working with local educaFonal establishments to create new pieces of theatre, offering performance opportuniFes to young performers, inexperienced professionals, new writers, community

members who just want to “give it a go” and all performances raise money and/or awareness for a local charity or charity that has been brought to our aPenFon by someone we know.

We bring theatre to different communiFes by way of Carol Singing in local nursing homes, children’s theatre workshops at music fesFvals and exploring the performance potenFal at site-­‐specific venues in the local area.

We hope to produce professional standard shows with great casts and producFon teams for those that wouldn’t normally go to see shows in a convenFonal theatre space. We hope to have a good laugh along the way and introduce theatre and theatre performance

to as many people as we can by working with local communiFes, students, the elderly, various support networks and bringing our love of theatre to people through our performances.

It must be rewarding to help people who can’t access the theatre to get into it. How do people get involved?

GeTng involved in creaFve arts can be done easily through your local borough council or informaFon centre.

We are currently working to increase the accessibility of the producFon company by taking into consideraFon those with disabiliFes that oqen prevent them from fully enjoying the theatre experience – those with learning difficulFes, special educaFonal needs, sight and/or hearing impairments

and performances for the young or elderly.

We would love to hear from anyone who has specific interest in assisFng us with our research into AuFsm-­‐ Friendly performances and Relaxed performances. They can do this by emailing us on enquiries@creaFveminds producFons.co.uk

Through my long theatre career, have been very fortunate that people have given me the opportuniFes to learn, put into pracFce or be involved with theatre. I want to be able to do the same thing which is why I love working at a boarding school, teaching workshops during the summer and giving a liPle bit back!

I want to be able to give others the same opportuniFes that were afforded to me and pass my knowledge on through my teaching of technical theatre.

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Sarah Lea When did you realise that you wanted to work in the creative industry?

Of course you acted and sang in Am Dram. Which do you enjoy the most?

As a Mum you become a taxi service taking your children to all their after school clubs. One of these for my daughter happened to be a Drama Club. Within weeks I was drafted in to undertake becoming a Theatre Chaperone and from that time onwards I was enraptured with the whole creative process that goes In to producing and performing a play. Never did I think that 15 years on I would be working both in Amateur and Professional Drama on the stage and in film and television as a performer and backstage as a professional theatre crew member!

I have thoroughly enjoyed partaking in straight plays and musicals. The creative process for both is very similar and it is this process, along with fun rehearsals with plenty of laughs along the way that makes the enjoyment in taking part equal.

How did it feel going freelance and quitting, as Dolly would put it "9-5"?

I still shudder at all the sleepless nights I endured, the endless pros and cons lists written and all the coffee and wine meet ups with friends to counsel me through the 'do I, don't Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

dilemma! It was not an easy decision at all but I am a fatalist at heart and honestly believe that what's meant to be will be and if risks aren't taken then we will never know what might have been and the potential we could achieve.

What is the best part of going freelance?

Not having to put the alarm on for 6:20 every morning and not having to hit the rush hour traffic!!!

Of course there are ups but what have you found the hardest at going freelance?

I find pushing myself forward for things difficult as I am inwardly actually quite a shy person so having to constantly prove my skills and 'sell' myself to my Agent and at auditions and interviews etc in order to persuade them to put me forward for jobs doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t

always feel comfortable.

Do you find it hard being a mature actress?

Yes and no. Yes because as we get older we know only too well the pitfalls of the industry and no because when one reaches a certain mature age we lose our inhibitions and are more able to discuss our thoughts and feelings with those in authority!

Do you feel there is a prejudice against mature people wanting to work within the creative field?

I have honestly not found this to be the case at all. I have been fortunate enough to work in some prime time TV series where a cross section of ages are positively requested for by the Production Company. The issue is more the requirement for mature actors to look natural. Within

this industry your experience is key. Get a good full CV of all your experience, hold off enduring the Botox injections and get a good Agent!

crew which I am enjoying immensely. Who knows what will follow after that but what I do know is that my mantra of live each day as if it was my last will continue!

What would you say to any other mature men and women wanting to start working in the freelance industry?

Any last shout outs?

Be prepared for the pitfalls and don't be surprised if it takes a long time to get started. Definitely do not rely on this as a regular income. When work comes in the pay is fantastic but remember the next 6 months could be lean so plan and budget especially for the tax bill!!

What's next for you?

I am fortunate enough to be currently engaged on a 9 month professional UK theatre tour as backstage

Without the ongoing love and support of my husband and children none of the above would have been possible so thank you all from the bottom of my heart .

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Darren Street When did you realise that you wanted to be working in the creaFve industry?

From a very early age. I can remember, I must have been five or six, making up liPle shows with my friends and performing them for friends and family, anybody who would watch, really. I remember one parFcular show was just me running around pretending to be a horse, ha ha! I've always loved to sing, and yes, I did do the teenage thing of singing into a hair brush whilst jumping around my bedroom, playing guitar (badly). My poor parents!

Working freelance isn't always easy and work can be hard to come by. What is your best advice to staying

sane?

Well, before I became an actor I spent ten years as a sound engineer, which is what I do to fill in the gaps when I'm not acFng. I also freelance as a voiceover arFst. Yes, finding enough work can be a challenge and at Fmes frustraFng, however it's all about your work ethic and your approach. To stay sane you must always strive to be the best you can, to produce your best work every single Fme, without fail, and in doing so, you create your own luck. If you take pride in the small details of each project that tend to make a real difference, it follows that clients will acFvely seek you out for other projects. It also helps if you are doing something you love!

Tell us more about Love Beyond Musical?

Love Beyond is a brand new large scale rock musical, based on the bible story.

We have just finished the first shows at Wembley Arena and what an experience that was! I was lucky enough join the London cast, following the show's premiere in Brighton last year. The cast and creaFves behind the show are stellar. West end legend, Dave Willets played the lead role as Father God, and our musical director was Stuart Morley (we will rock you). We played two performances at Wembley, the second performance was to a 5000 strong audience.

What an experience it was to look out from the stage to see that many people. A truly wonderful experience I will never forget.

How did you get involved in that?

Through my agent. He put me forward for the role, and aqer two audiFons and a workshop day, I was asked to join the ensemble.

Do you find it hard being a mature actor?

Well, I'd give it a few more years before I call myself mature :) Once I'm 50 I reckon I will fit into that category nicely.

I'm 43 at the moment, and funnily enough I have been more successful and I've had a lot more work in recent years than when I was in my 30s. As one gets older, your casFng brackets change and you are seen for different things. No maPer what age, shape, size, colour or creed you are, as an actor you represent a complete cross secFon of society. I have found myself becoming more castable as I get older, which is nice. I suppose it's down to Karma?

Do you feel there is a prejudice against mature people wanFng

to work within the creaFve field?

No, not at all. As I said, it's all about the quality of work that you produce. I have never experienced any age related issues at all.

What would you say to any other mature men and women wanFng to start working in the freelance industry?

Get out there and go for it.

Your age is not an issue. Be the best you can. Be proacFve and use the Fme when you are not working to hone your skills and promote yourself. Build a fab website, always have a smile and a business card handy.

What's next for you?

Well, I am just going into rehearsals for Christmas the Musical, which speaks for itself I guess. That's going to

be a lot of fun, then who knows what the future brings? That's why I love being a freelance creaFve, you never know what's coming next. Variety definitely is the spice of life.

Any last shout-­‐outs?

Ha ha. The golden rule... If it's in your blood, never give up. It may take a while for you to get where you want to be, there may be many knock backs, but you must treat these as part of the job and get back up to go again.

The moment you give up, is the moment you allow yourself to fail.

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Natasha Halliwell You introduced your husband into shows. But who introduced you?

A friend asked me to come and support a show in which he was appearing, just over five years ago. It looked such good fun that I auditioned for the company’s next show which was Shakespeare’s ‘Much Ado About Nothing.’ I got cast and my involvement with local amateur theatre started snowballing from there.

What’s the best part of doing shows with your partner?

It’s great to be able to spend time together during rehearsals and to share our interest in the shows. We also enjoy in the social

activities that accompany the shows. ‘Show week’ is fun and exhilarating but also a huge commitment with a family and work, so it is a privilege to be in a show with my partner. We usually stagger doing shows between us and we understand and support each other’s commitment and challenges.

You both work in the medical profession. It must be hard finding time for the creative arts. What kept you going?

We have always had a mutual interest in the creative arts since we met at university but in the past, we both resigned ourselves to work and the challenging task of raising three boys. Like many in this situation, having time for creative arts was a bit of a luxury with occasional trips to

the cinema or theatre.

However, we both enjoyed books, music and movies when we got the chance.

Now that my youngest is ten and I work part-time, we enjoy the contrast that doing shows provides with work and it helps us to maintain a healthy workleisure balance. We have a shared passion for learning new skills. Work commitment can be particularly exhausting for my husband but we find the challenge of putting on a show with others choosing to spend their leisure time in similar way, a very levelling and rewarding experience that helps to keep work demands in perspective.

What has been your favourite show that you have been involved in so far?

Each show has had a favourite aspect in its own

way, so it is impossible to choose one. Right now, I have just finished performing as Michelle of The Resistance in ‘Allo ‘Allo and it has been an absolute riot. My husband was also in the show playing a German General with an eye patch.

Do you find it hard being a mature actress?

Not really. Now the children are older and I have more time available for leisure, I find amateur dramatics to be a fun, cathartic and rewarding creative activity. There appear to be a variety of roles available for mature women although, as a relative newcomer, competition is great among some very talented actors and singers who have been performing in these theatre groups for decades.

Do you feel there is a prejudice against mature people wanting to work within the

creative field?

I imagine prejudice against mature actors may exist more in the professional creative field, although some of my mature friends, who have appeared in local amateur shows, are also finding success in professional theatre. Personally, I have not experienced any prejudice against mature actors going for roles in amateur theatre, as many of the theatre group members are also mature and the shows tend to be chosen appropriately to accommodate the majority. I feel that life experience can bring wisdom to certain roles.

What would you say to any other mature men and women wanting to start working in the creative industry?

I would say follow your passion and explore, as there do appear to be opportunities for mature people in the creative industry, if somewhat competitive. But I guess you don’t know what’s out there until you try. I have chosen to continue working professionally in the medical field while performing in shows

for leisure for reasons as explained. And that way, I feel I get the best of both worlds!

What’s next for you?

We both feel very privileged to have access to a variety of excellent local theatre groups and we hope to continue to support and perform with them while developing acting and singing skills in parallel. My husband is keen to attend courses to develop his performance in Shakespeare roles since recently appearing in his first Shakespeare play as Exeter in Henry V.

Any last shout-outs?

During our time in amateur theatre, we have made a number of good friends from all walks of life who share our love for performing shows. This has enhanced our enjoyment and we are delighted to be part of the local amateur dramatics scene.

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Ferenc Hepp When did you realise that you wanted to be working in the creaFve industry?

Aqer I failed my Biology A-­‐ Level! I iniFally followed the path that my friends were taking and completed two years of science based A-­‐ Levels, with a view of going into the veterinary world, but soon realised that it wasn’t really for me and therefore chose to study Theatre Studies A-­‐Level. This proved to be the right decision as I achieved a bePer result in one year than I did in two years of learning about the sciences!

How did your studies help you move towards working in the creaFve industry?

Following my A-­‐Levels I

completed a HumaniFes/ Theatre Studies degree at the University of Wales. This included a lot of pracFcal experience as well as theory, and that is really when I started going to the theatre on a regular basis. Aqer this, there was no turning back! I got the theatre bug and knew that a career in the creaFve industry was the right thing for me, and therefore started applying for theatre admin/box office roles as soon as possible aqer graduaFng.

Would you recommend studying to other up and coming actors and actresses?

I would certainly recommend studying, but

everyone is different, therefore I would say they need to choose where they apply very carefully. I know some people who have gone through University and now work in very different roles, but also others who have chosen not to take part in further educaFon and doing very well in the creaFve industry. Studying is not for everyone; experience makes a big difference in this industry, but a lot of jobs require certain educaFonal background, therefore it is very important to do the research!

AcFng in the opening ceremony for the London Olympics must have been a fantasFc opportunity. How did it feel to be a part of that?

27th July 2012 was one of the best and most exciFng days of my life! I met the amazing Danny Boyle and the extremely talented Toby

Sedgwick, who was in charge of the mass choreography, through the rehearsal process, as well as making new friends along the way who were my fellow cast members. They all made us feel very important and I will always remember the moment when we were on the Stadium floor, looking up at the converging Olympic rings as the pyro shower started and the music was playing. I am certain that there were no dry eyes amongst the cast, including me, at that point!

How did you get involved in that?

I iniFally heard about the audiFons via the London 2012 mailing list and I went through a two-­‐stage audiFon process at the end of 2011. I was very excited when I heard that I was cast and we started rehearsing in

but I enjoyed every minute May 2012 at various venues and in all weathers! This involved a lot of hours twice or three Fmes a week on a voluntary basis, and a lot of travelling from home in Surrey, and did not mind making these journeys and the commitment!

Do you find it hard being a mature actor?

I don’t find it hard personally, as my theatre group is very accommodaFng and welcoming to all ages and genders etc. The shows are chosen very carefully with the membership in mind, and there are always opportuniFes to audiFon for certain roles, whether they are leading parts or just being part of the ensemble.

Do you feel there is a prejudice against mature people wanFng to work

within the creaFve field?

I would say it is more difficult in the professional industry rather than the Am Dram world. However, I think the situaFon is bePer now than it used to be and with the legislaFon that prevents excluding or discriminaFng against anyone just because of their age, it has become easier recently. Experience is a posiFve thing!

What would you say to any other mature men and women wanFng to start working in the freelance industry?

Go for it! Make sure you emphasise in detail your experience, whether it is educaFonal, previous appropriate work skills or purely experience of various aspects of life! You cannot beat logic, common sense, enthusiasm and loyalty; these are all posiFve aspects

that should give you an advantage!

What’s next for you?

As far as my professional life, I am very happy working for the School of Arts at the University, as I am in a young, vibrant and creaFve environment every day. I also enjoy the contact with the public and customer service.

Socially, I hope to carry on being part of Godalming Theatre Group for a long Fme to come as I enjoy the social aspect and the challenge of learning various roles for the diverse shows that are being presented. And if the Olympics happen to re-­‐visit the UK in my lifeFme…. I will probably apply to be a part of it again!

Any last shout-­‐outs?

Shout-­‐out to all my family and also friends who I met through my professional and social life through the years since arriving in England at the age of 13 with only a basic ability to speak English. It is difficult to believe that this was almost 30 years ago now!

But no regrets, I have made a large number of close friends who mean a lot to me.

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Rebecca Van-Orden What made you want to start working in the creaFve industry?

I have loved singing and performing for as long as I can remember. My parents were such music lovers, and my mother sings in choirs – I don’t remember making a conscious decision, it was always going to be part of my life.

You have worked in many stage shows. What has been your favourite?

There are a few! Saucy Jack And The Space Vixens, Marguerite, Nine, Calendar Girls…

How did you realise the creaFve industry was for you?

As I said it was never really a conscious decision – I was never not going to perform!

What is the hardest thing about working in the creaFve industry?

Time. Finding Fme for rehearsals amongst family life and the day job is the most challenging aspect.

You work as a teacher for a sing and sign franchise. That must be very rewarding. How does it feel knowing you are helping young children and their parents?

It is a wonderful job. Sing and Sign allows babies and their families to effecFvely communicate with each other, using signs alongside speech, before the baby has learnt to talk, which is an amazing giq.

And the smiles on the faces of the babies and their parents, as well as the parents’ accounts of the difference it has made to family life, makes it truly rewarding. Plus I now run the local franchise, so I’m geTng experience as a businesswoman as well!

Do you find it hard being a mature actress?

Not as much as I thought I would – I might not be in the running for ingénue roles any more, but my most interesFng and enjoyable recent roles have been characters the same age as me.

Do you feel there is a prejudice against mature people wanFng to work within the creaFve field?

As a performer I actually find the prejudice is oqen against women in general – the vast majority of shows have

many more principal roles for men than women. If you can find a show with a decent number of roles for women, the baPle is mostly won.

What would you say to any other mature men and women wanFng to start working in the creaFve industry?

Don’t give up the day job! But don’t be afraid to give it a go.

What’s next for you?

Christmas! I’ll be doing lots of carol singing for charity. I’m also singing with my local community choir. Shows are on hold for the moment whilst I grow my business, and focus on my family, but there are exciFng things coming up next year.

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Rachel Davison You started doing shows at just the age of 6! That was a very young age why was that?

My paternal grandparents and my dad have always been involved in amateur theatre – my mum found herself roped in when she met my dad! So it’s always been a big part of family life.

When I was 6 I was taken to see a variety show put on by a local dance school and at the end of the show my parents asked me if I would like to go to dancing lessons and go on stage just like them. Of course I said yes please and my stage debut was actually an open air concert performed on a temporary stage in front of Bradford town hall to celebrate the Queen’s Silver Jubilee in 1977. I can sFll

remember all the words to “Never smile at a crocodile”. As well as other dance school shows I also appeared in musicals with my parents when the musical they were doing required children – shows such as “Pickwick” and “The King and I”. When I was 8 I was the Duchess of Plaza Toro’s pageboy in “The Gondoliers”, then when I was 21 I played the Duchess of Plaza Toro in a university producFon – bit miffed I didn’t have a pageboy to carry my train though!

(Guessing you will have said about your family working in the industry in the quesFon above)

It must have been great watching your parents in shows growing up?

Indeed! Some of my earliest memories are of being taken to

see a maFnee performance and being told to “look out for mummy on stage” or “look out for daddy on stage”. My mum loves to tell the story of when I was only about 2 or 3 my dad was in the chorus of some Gilbert and Sullivan show (don’t remember which) and aqer they’d finished singing some big chorus number I piped up “mummy why does my daddy sing louder than everyone else?”. Mum’s response was apparently – “he just does now shush!” It was always great fun the week before a show when mum or dad would bring home their costumes for the following week’s show and I would try things on and parade around the living room. One of my granddad’s proudest moments was a producFon of “Iolanthe” with Bradford Gilbert & Sullivan Society – my granddad, dad and brother were peers, my mum and I were fairies and my

grandma was costume mistress – a real family affair!

If you didn’t have their support do you think you would sFll have wanted to work in the creaFve industry?

It was going to dance classes (ballet, tap etc) that got me started and then of course I graduated to am dram as I got older – not sure I would ever have got into such a hobby without family support from an early age, especially as mum drove me to and fro to rehearsals and frequently had to sew costumes for my dance school shows. (Thanks mum!)

Whas been your favourite show so far?

Do I really have to pick one?

I’m going to be naughty and sneak in 2: “Guys and Dolls” – as this gave me my first ever major lead role (outside university). I played Miss Adelaide and loved every second. “Witches of Eastwick”

– as this was the most demanding lead role I’ve ever played – I was Felicia Gabriel, had to sing a low D to a top C, vomit cherries (as in the movie) and then get beaten to death with a frying pan!

What is the hardest thing about working in the creaFve industry?

The hardest thing about amdram is going back to normal life and the day job – I’m never more depressed than on a Monday morning aqer a show has just finished.

Do you find it hard being a mature actress?

Funnily enough it’s actually easier. When I was in my 20s I used to audiFon for every part going and never got any of them – for the simple reason that I was the wrong “type”. Younger roles (the ones I was going for) tend to

be romanFc leads, usually straight roles (by which I mean not comedy). I was never suited to play the straight romanFc roles so of course I was never cast – usually ended up being lead dancer instead. However when I hit my mid 30s a good friend (who’s a professional actress) persuaded me to start going for the “character”/ comedy roles – in most musicals these are generally wriPen older than the romanFc leads. And of course I’ve never looked back. I frequently age up for these roles but the character parts are so much fun to play, especially the baddies – and I’ve played quite a few.

There’s nothing more rewarding than hearing an audience guffawing at you – for the right reasons of course!

Do you feel there is a prejudice against mature people wanFng to work within the creaFve field?

Certainly not in the world of amateur theatre – at least I’ve

never come across it.

What would you say to any other mature men and women wanFng to start working in the creaFve industry?

Go for it! I’ve met a lot of people who’ve come into amateur theatre later in life, usually not having done anything since school, loving every minute and regreTng that they didn’t get into it earlier.

What’s next for you?

A bit of good old Gilbert and Sullivan – not many socieFes do these old operePas anymore but I was brought up on the stuff (my dad was chairman of Bradford Gilbert and Sullivan Society for many years) so it’s prePy close to my heart. I’ll be playing Ruth – the old baPle-­‐ axe role naturally! – in “The Pirates of Penzance” in Farnham at the end of

January.

Any last shout-­‐outs?

Fckets for Pirates of Penzance can be purchased from faos.org.uk

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Jo Jo Desmond ‘The Singing Swan’

Josephine Desmond, or JoJo as known to many, is a professional singer and dancer. Having begun her career dancing in Matthew Bourne’s ‘Swan Lake’, after graduating for The Central School Ballet she has received enormous praise in the broadsheet reviews and has effortlessly danced her way into music and dance performances all over the UK and Europe.

Audiences of Wembley have been graced by her voice in a stunning and powerful performance as lead vocalist for the ‘Dr Who Live’ arena tour. A truly talented artist, she covers a spectrum of genres from jazz to rock, pop and classical and bring excitement, fun but also

charisma to her performances.

Jojo has collaborated with an array of acclaimed artists including Mike Choi (aka Mika), Gus Isadore (aka Seal) and Kevan Frost (aka Boy George). She has also sang backing voals for Martina Topley-Bird’s ‘Need One’ video and Delta Goodrum on Top of the Pops.

From West End Swan to a musical phenomenon, Jo Jo has enticed her audiences in every discipline. Having accomplished such a range in such a short space of time, she has discovered her passion for Jazz.

The features photographs are some from the filming of JoJo’s video for ‘Night and Day’ and a short interview with the lovely lady herself.

Jojo, what was it like dancing for someone as successful as Matthew Bourne, at the beginning of your career?

It was great. I'd dedicated so much of my childhood training and perfecting my technique. Now I had a job aged 19 that was prestigious AND exciting.

Having dedicated so many years to ballet, what made you decide you wanted to start singing?

I'd always been musical. We played instruments, it was something both sisters also did and our parents felt it was important. I had lessons aged around 10 and then at dance school was in the choir, singing alto parts as I had a bassy voice.

Playing the bassoon and swimming seemed to develop my diaphragm so I think this really helped lay a foundation.

When I was training as a dancer I teamed up with a musician who needed a singer to do his pub gigs. This was hard grafting performances to tough audiences but by then I was 'hooked' to singing.

Once I'd met a few more musicians and producers I realised pretty quick where I was being pulled. I quit my Swan Lake tour to Japan playing a lead role and stayed home to present to record industry with my rock band.

My Satisfaction song was a rock track at this point!

It was a tough lesson as it didn't go my way and I knew then that you should ALWAYS 'do it' and then ‘regret it'. Mind you, I was young and inexperienced. Music has a tendency of taking you on twists and turns, as all performing is. You have higher highs, but often lower lows in the aftermath of a great gig.

You’ve accomplished so much in a short space of time. It’s truly inspiring for young artists like me, whatever the discipline.

What really keeps you inspired and motivated, particularly when you’re nervous or reluctant to step into a role? What is your drive?

Great question- I think as humans we have so much potential that is often never completely fulfilled. I look at other people to raise the bar, inspire and always have a good work ethic. Laziness isn't compatible with art as it is about pushing boundaries, putting yourself in uncomfortable situations is only ever going to stretch you. 100% effort every time, even when you feel rubbish, you have to be a pro.

If you could team up with any other artist, who would it be?

Sting- he's truly exceptional musician and lyricist. I'd probly be shy tho!

With such a busy schedule, I am very grateful that you have taken the time to allow me to photograph you. Is there anyone that you feel really helped you along when you were first starting off?

Yes and no. I've had some fantastic teachers.. Other times I've felt like I didn't know how to navigate and wanted more direction. Sometimes you just have to make stuff happen by being open, talk to EVERYONE, tell people what you're about and give yourself up in a positive way. Then it just happens organically and people want to help you, either for an hour, a week or longer... All contacts can also be useful at any time, you never know.

Is there any advice you’d give to young artists starting

off, particularly those who may be afraid to take that first step after graduating?

Keep busy, set yourself targets - this week I'll do this, this year I'll have done this. Keep it achievable and give yourself time off as well.

Good to strike whilst the iron is hot, use momentum to your advantage. Follow up on a contact, a chance meeting.

Art is a journey and you're in it for the longhaul so be patient. It starts to slot into place in your late 20s and you will keep getting better with age. Yipee!

So you’ve found your niche – Jazz! Do you think you’ll stay with jazz singing for a while or explore other avenues as well?

Jazz is great cos it teaches you so much technique and musicality but I'm a rocker and love blues and soul. I'm going on tour with American 80s girl group the three degrees in January/Feb 2015

as a support artist for their UK tour. Really excited as doing more pop jazz with a great five piece band.

I’ve noticed you’ve been doing a number of London gigs. What is your ideal location and setting for a performance?

Ooh well I've done some great intimate gigs for private parties or in five star hotels but I do like a big stage with a fantastic PA System where the sound is top notch!!

Would you like to stay based in London or do you plan to explore further out?

I'd love to go to LA or New York as the music scene is good out there but I love London and UK and love the musicians I get to perform with on a regular basis. It's taken time and hard work and I don't want to lose momentum!

This time next year if Image 34 asked you whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new, what would you hope to say?

I'd say I'm now managed, I've recorded and perform new material, expanded my fan base, and I'm going to do more festivals this year and bigger better gigs.

-------------------------------------To view JoJoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brilliant new jazz sessions click here For other music click here --------------------------------------

Knowledge and ATtude of A Healthy Lifestyle by Daskalo

The components of a healthy lifestyle include many things.

A few examples of these components are eaFng right, exercising regularly, sleeping well and keeping your mind calm and content. EaFng right means staying on a healthy diet this does not mean that you cannot eat sweets or faPy foods, it just means that you should constantly keep in mind how a certain food will affect your body and what a right porFon is. People always wants to remain in control but do not gorge yourself and then skip a few meals to make up for it. That will not have the desired outcome of a healthy body but the exact opposite, a stressed body that will not know when the next energy intake will arrive so it will be in a constant shock.

Which as a result will make the fat easier to store and in extend many health issues could follow. A few very

simple steps to follow are:

-­‐Consume a large amount of water daily -­‐Cover all bases in terms of nutrient needs -­‐Eat regularly (liPle and every 3-­‐4 hours) -­‐Don’t eat the same thing too oqen (varied and healthy) -­‐Eat as soon as you can aqer waking up Have a day off to eat whatever you like once a week (but even if you eat junk food, bare in mind what a good porFon size is and that there is a healthier opFon. for example you can eat dark chocolate, raisins, dates, or home made burger with whole grain bread and fresh vegetables.

Treat yourself occasionally with something small if you have done well -­‐Eat a big variaFons of fruits and vegetables for healthy skin, hair and nails -­‐AVOID FRIED FOOD. -­‐AVOID RED MEAT

REGULARLY (3-­‐4 Fmes per month alternate with eggs, chicken, turkey and fish. High consumpFon of red meat and processed meat increases the chances of colon cancer up to 66%. AlternaFvely you can have eggs, tofu, and fish.

Drinking green tea and other herbal teas, increases your metabolism. Also keeping your physical acFvity levels high also contributes to faster and healthier metabolism.

What is the metabolism?

Is the set of chemicals reacFons that happen in the cells of living organisms to sustain life. These processes allow organisms to grow and reproduce maintain their structures, and respond to their environments.

Metabolism is usually divided into two categories.

Catabolism breaks down organic maPer, for example to harvest energy in cellular respiraFon. Anabolism uses energy to construct components of cells such as

proteins and nucleic acids.

Having a high metabolism, by eaFng consistently will help burn more fat.

Also: Drink about 500ml of water as soon as you can when waking up in the morning, followed by breakfast soon aqer Try to have 5-­‐6 meals a day, 3 larger meals and 2-­‐3 snacks (liPle and oqen) Avoid eaFng carbohydrates late at night, have at least 4 hours before sleeping, preferably have your last large carb meal/snack at lunch.

The excepFon to this is aqer training, when you can eat carbs within 2 hours of training late at night to replenish your glycogen levels

This could be a good beginning and understanding of what a healthy lifestyle should include and be. Remember that nutriFon is the most

important but physical acFvity always can contribute to that healthy switch.

Weather is working out at the gym 3-­‐4 Fmes per week, walk for one hour in the morning, play football or aPend a class that you enjoy a couple Fmes per week. Also take the stairs instead of the liq or walk/ cycle to work instead of talking the bus. Is enFrely up to your hands to love your self and look aqer your body because your body is your temple. Start with baby steps, add something new every day and within no Fme you will realise that this healthy lifestyle every body is talking about is part of your life. Start today; or actually start now that you read this! Why wait unFl tomorrow? Time is Fcking be producFve!

Daskalo BSc, MSc, ANutr.

NutriFonist and personal trainer expert, internaFonal male model Daskalo.net

Look Familiar?

Issue Eleven cover star model Daskalo joins the Image 34 team giving his insight into fitness and health realted issues. Daskalo has been in the health and fitness industry for the past seven years, working for

hospitals (with cancer patients, diabetes patients, people struggling with obesity, anorexia and bulimia), gyms and as a freelancer, in Greece, London, los Angeles and India. Has helped with his knowledge many people from diďŹ&#x20AC;erent age group and diďŹ&#x20AC;erent ethnic background either to gain weight, loose weight. The most important principle that tries to spread around is the switch to healthy lifestyle that will keep you happy and healthy for the rest of your life.

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PMS

Hi girls (and guys should also read), I want to talk a little about PMS. (so look away now if you "don't wanna know about all that") Its a subject that seems so flippant from a lot of girls and one that men would rather ignore. It surprises me how little some girls know about what it actually is. 85% of women have at least 1 symptom of it every single month but only 8% have up to 5 or more symptoms which effect day to day life for 2 weeks of every month. PMS stands for "PRE-menstrual syndrome" meaning BEFORE menstruation. so we are not talking JUST about when you get your period and you have some cramps for 2 days (although the cramps are one of the

by Sapphire Elia

symptoms) The symptoms vary from the bloating, headaches, joint pain, binge eating but the ones that concern me most as I suffer pretty badly myself, are the psychological effects. The feelings of depression and anxiety, tiredness and anger, crying spells etc for up to 2 weeks leading up to the start of your cycle. (which is 50% of your year and half of your entire life!) These are serious emotions that when not addressed and acknowledged as PMS can lead to relationship problems at the most minor level and if very severe (known as PMDD) even suicide. The reason i'm sharing this with you, is because I've suffered for years and have found ways of keeping it under control that id like to share with you.

1. I have found that regular exercise helps alleviate not just some of the physical eďŹ&#x20AC;ect of it (backache and tender areas, plus lightens periods) but helps with anxiety and general stress

levels due to the unwanted adrenaline that we have during that time of the month.

2. Cutting down on caďŹ&#x20AC;eine during this time as this adds stress to the nervous system. Â

3. Vitamin b6 (50-100mg) this one is a gooden! It boosts serotonin and dopamine levels within the nervous system. Other than regular exercise this really is the answer for me with reducing my crazy mood swings. (DO NOT EXCEED 100MG) it will take a good few months to kick in so stick with it. Apparently it helps with PMS acne trouble too if you suďŹ&#x20AC;er with it.

4. Evening primrose oil and or star flower can help with all the physical symptoms, like tiredness tender breasts, aches and pains and possible irritability, works best when taken with b6 as it will help boost GLA levels.

5.EAT LOTS OF GOOD CARBS! this keeps serotonin levels up, stops binge eating and gives you more energy. (brown rice, sweet potato, pasta, fruit) 6.Avoid foods with high salt

content. High salt foods create water retention, which leads to bloating. (fast foods, soups, quick snacks) prepare more home made foods to control sodium levels.

7. Drink lots of water and take a multivitamin every day for de-bloating and added overall health benefits 8. Being aware you have it is really important when you hit a tough day plus taking all the above steps to try and keep it at bay.

9. Informing your partner so he or she can support you rather than just think you are a crazy psycho bitch for no reason.

10. pray/meditate/breathe.. all will be ok I hope this has been helpful to anyone reading this, please feel free to share your own experience with me on what does and does not

work for you.

not work for you.

I hope this has been helpful to anyone reading this, please feel free to share your own experience with me on what does and does

-------------------------------------For more fittness and health advice contact Sapphire by Twitter @

Credit Page 1 – 7 Image 34 Magazine Page 8 – 15 Courtesy of Clara Bond Page 18 – 28 Pictures courtesy of Margaret Keys Management contact for shoot details Page 29 – 33 Writer Eleanor Jones Page 34 – 77 Image 34 Magazine Hall provided by Princes Hall Aldershot Photographer Michael Sweeney Page 78 – 91 Photography Grey Pistachio - JC Candanedo Words Lost by Peter Radford Page 92 – 101 Photographer & interview Steph L Nyunt Page 102 – 107 Photographer

& Styling- Rebecca Elizabeth Tate Model- Melissa Crawford @ Headline Models Page 108 – 113 Photographer: Federico Alba Models: Livia Apostu & Gianna Goydina Make up artist: Elena Voghera Page 114 – 132 Photographer Michael Sweeney Model Tasha Bateman Page 133 – 140 Text Daskalo Imagery courtesy of Daskalo contact for shooting details.

Page 141 – 144 Text Sapphire Elia Imagery courtesy of Sapphire Elia Page 145 – 153 Makeup Artist - Maite Zamora Model - Angela Nakisozi Hair - Trina Williams Photography - Rianna Tamara

Thank you for reading Issue Twelve. We hope you enjoyed it and that you come back for Issue Thirteen 02.03.15