NE Online Magazine Issue 8 by Wayne Groves

Hi Chris and welcome to NE Magazine, for the few readers who must be living in a cave somewhere and don’t know who you are how about giving th em a quick l ow- down o n yourself? - Hello! Can’t help but think I’m writing your interview introduction for you here, oh well… I’m a stand-up comedian from South Shields and I’m also a bit of an actor now and then… but mainly a comedian… that might not come across as well as it should in print form, but I am. So there. At the moment it’s hard not seeing you on the TV when we switch it on as you’re everywhere, but what has been the highlight for you so far? - Not everywhere though am I? If you turn on QVC and I’m selling a frying pan, just assume you’ll find me floating face down in a river very soon. The highlight for me so far was probably being in Hebburn. Since starting comedy I always wanted to try my hand at being in a sitcom too so I was over the moon to do one with my mate and so close to my heart, and I got to work with Vic Reeves. I know you had a bit of a crazy time with fans wanting pics and autographs when you were having a few drinks in a South Shields bar recently, how are you finding this, does it put you off going out? - Not at all. Any person in that position who has been on TV or whatever and people want photos (I’m trying my best not to say celebrity here!) who pretends they hate the attention is a liar. You don’t go for a career on TV because you don’t want anyone to notice you. As long as I’m not eating or having a shit when you want a photo then it’s no problem at all… I meant, like on the toilet, not just in the middle of the dancefloor.

Have you had any weird fan requests or incidents? - Not really. The odd person will show up to a gig with my face on a T-Shirt, or bake me a cake, or send me a dead animal in the post but other than that it’s just photos and autographs. A little kid in Hebburn when we were filming asked me to sign his micro scooter… that was a bit weird. As well as being a bit of a regular on Celebrity Juice, Never Mind the Buzzcocks and 8 out of 10 Cats you are now starring in the North East based sitcom Hebburn, how did that come about? - My mate and fellow comedian Jason Cook decided to write a sitcom about the town he was from, Hebburn, and he actually wrote me a little side part which he named after me. But when it came to being made the BBC asked me to read for the main character, and when I got it, Jason took the part that he’d written for me! It came about so gradually that I didn’t really realise the enormity of being lead role in a BBC2 sitcom until I saw the advert on TV. I nearly passed out. How has the response for Hebburn been so far? - Overwhelmingly positive. And we just won Best Drama at the RTS North awards too. And we’ve got a second series! You are now embarking on your biggest tour to date, how do you feel about this? - Yeah incredible! It’s an extension of my last tour, Feeling Lucky. I did 60+ dates in 2012 but the demand for tickets was so high and people enjoyed the show so much that I’m doing another 40 odd dates this year in much bigger venues. I can’t wait to get back out on the road.

Are there any venues on the tour that you are looking forward to playing or any you’re quite nervous about? - The Theatre Royal in Newcastle. I absolutely can’t wait. I used to watch panto there when I was a kid. I’m

We l c oand m ewelcome N o t e .to NE Hi Chris Are there any venues on the Have you had any weird fan Magazine, for the few readers tour that you are looking SPONSORS requests or incidents? who must be living in a cave forward to playing or any We l c o m e t o t h e J u n e I s s u e - Not really. The odd personCineworld somewhere don’t you’reBoldon quite nervous about? o f N E . W h aand t a m o n t hknow we will show up to a gig with mywww.cineworld.co.uk who how - The Theatre Royal in h a v eyou h aare d, m i x iabout n g w igiving th the th Newcastle. I absolutely can’t s t aem r s aat Squick c r e e n -lCowo n down 2 0 1 3 a s face on a T-Shirt, or bake me o wait. Gateshead I used to watch panto wne lyourself? l a s s p o r t i n g l e g e n d s a t a cake, or send me a deadThe Sage -H Hello! there when I was a kid. 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Shields We h a v e filming asked me to sign hiswww.oceanbeach.co.uk and anw actor fe a tI’m u r ealso d t hae bit m aoffe t i m e s micro scooter… that was a bit weird. now n o w and b u t then… i n t h i s but i s s umainly e we Quasar Elite South Shields aw comedian… i l l b e i n t r othat d u c imight n g y onot u to www.quasarsouthshields.co.uk come asr c well t h e d racross i v i n g fo e b e hasi n dit t h e As well as being a bit of a regular on Celebrity Juice, should N o r t h in E aprint s t Rform, e g i o nbut o fI tam. he So c h athere. r i t y p l u s N E h a s c h o s e n Never Mind the BuzzcocksFor all queries or if you would Va r i e t y a s o n e o f o u r m a i n and 8 out of 10 Cats you arelike to feature or advertise in At c h athe r i t imoment e s t h a t it’s w e hard a r e gnot o i n g now starring in the North EastNE Magazine email based sitcom Hebburn, howcontact@neonlinemagazine.com seeing t o s u p you p o r ton s othe e x pTV e c twhen to we s e e switch m o r e aitb oon u t as t h eyou’re m e a c h did that come about? - My mate and fellow everywhere, but what has month. comedian Jason Cook decidedUnless stated otherwise all been the highlight for you to write a sitcom about thecompetition entries should be so A s far? always, if you have -s o Not m e t heverywhere i n g y o u w a nthough t t o s e e town he was from, Hebburn,sent to win@neonlinemagazine. am i n a I?f u If t u ryou e i s turn s u e ton h e nQVC d o n ’ t and he actually wrote mecom and fo r gI’m e t tselling o d r o pa ufrying s a n epan, m a i l t o a little side part which he just c o n tassume a c t @ n eyou’ll o n l i n efind m a gme a z i n e . named after me. But when itPlus you can catch up with us came to being made the BBC floating face down in a river com asked me to read for the mainonline for news, events, blogs, very soon. The highlight for character, and when I got it,competitions and more at me being T i l l so n efar x t was t i mprobably e Jason took the part that he’dwww.neonlinemagazine.com in Hebburn. Since starting written for me! It came about comedy wanted to try Ta ke c aIralways e so gradually that I didn’tFollow us on Facebook my hand at being in a sitcom really realise the enormity- http://www.facebook. too Wa yson eI was over the moon to of being lead role in a BBC2 do one with my mate and so sitcom until I saw the advertcom/pages/N-E-Onlineclose to my heart, and I got to on TV. I nearly passed out. work with Vic Reeves. How has the response for I EDITOR know you had a bit of a crazy Wayne Hebburn been so far? time withGroves fans wanting pics and autographs when you wayne@neonlinemagazine.com- Overwhelmingly positive. And we just won Best Drama were having a few drinks in at the RTS North awards aDESIGNER South Shields bar recently, too. And we’ve got a second how are you finding this, does series! itJoseph put youArcher off going out? www.josephphilliparcher.co.uk - Not at all. Any person in that archer.joe@neonlinemagazine. You are now embarking on position who has been on TV your biggest tour to date, or whatever and people want com how do you feel about this? photos (I’m trying my best - Yeah incredible! It’s an not to say celebrity here!) CONTRIBUTORS extension of my last tour, who pretends they hate the Ian Berryis Photographer Feeling Lucky. I did 60+ dates attention a liar. You don’t in 2012 but the demand for gowww.ianberry.co.uk for a career on TV because info@ianberry.co.uk tickets was so high and people you don’t want anyone to enjoyed the show so much notice you. As long as I’m not eating or having a shit when Greame Baty Photographer that I’m doing another 40 odd dates this year in much you want a photo then it’s no www.facebook.com/ bigger venues. I can’t wait to problem at all… I meant, like get back out on the road. onGJBPerformancePhotography the toilet, not just in the g.j.baty@gmail.com middle of the dancefloor.

Gateshead International Jazz Festival, The Sage Opening Night! By Elizabeth Johnson When the average person, including me thinks of Jazz, John Thompson, cigarette in hand saying in dulcet tones “ Jazz Club” comes to mind. Jazz is a music genre that is most definitely not mainstream. Now I usually like my music a little harder round the edges but one of the perks of being a reviewer is that you get to experience things that you normally wouldn’t. And because you have a job to do you have to pay attention and have an open mind. My only experiences of Jazz have been either Louis Armstrong and the like in films or that terrible free form Jazz so mocked on the fast show. Louis I got, free form I didn’t. As you probably can tell I know absolutely nothing about Jazz. I am clueless. I have never ventured into the world of Jazz because is seems so hard and complicated. Then there are the people who like Jazz. I have spoken to a few who because I didn’t know anything about the genre and didn’t think I would like it have reacted like I have just killed their pet

PHOTOS BY MARK SAVAGE

hamster. I became some sort of intellectual pariah, unable to wear a black polo neck ever again. And so to the Jazz festival at the Sage and opening night and Hall 2. The Sage has got the best acoustics in the world, in my personal opinion, though there has been no official prize that has been given out yet. Soweto Kinch is an award winning Jazz Alto Saxophonist and I don’t really know what one of those is, I had to look it up. He is also a Hip Hop artist, (I didn’t have look up what that was) who combines Jazz and Hip Hop seamlessly. He performed his new studio album with his new trio. “The Legend of Mike Smith” is the story of a young rapper’s journey loosely inspired by Dante and the Seven Deadly Sins. There is a real energy and vibrancy to the music; it is story telling and social comment with real craft and skill. It is an epic and full of references that you can either pick up and dissect

or simply let wash over you taking you for the ride. The later is the route I would go for at first listen and take the former when you have time for contemplation. Going from a non-Jazz lover I truly feel that I have discovered something amazing, something produced but from really talented people who in this time of manufactured dross still have the power to

convert and amaze someone who hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t liked a new band since I discovered The Arcade Fire. Zara McFarlane is another name I wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t aware of until the Festival and her style is more familiar than Soweto Kinch. Zara is a 2012 MOBO nominated artist and has worked with some of the best names in Jazz. Her tone and timing is exquisite and beautiful to listen to and she is very accessible. Her voice has a darkness that is enveloping and comforting. She is also expert in performing vocal acrobatics that contrast so beautifully with the rich timbre she possesses. And though more familiar in style she has a very modern way of singing and in her capable vocal chords each song is fresh and clean. Not a breath wasted and each line well listened to by an audience that is held in the palm of her hands. She is an artist who you will want to listen to again and again. The Sage are presenting world class acts in a worldclass venue. We have this amazing facility literally on the doorstep of the North East and we are so lucky to have it. It is not just a concert venue; it is an organisation that helps challenge the perception of the North East. After being thrust into a whole new musical world am I a convert to Jazz? Maybe not quite yet. The two artists featured here have a new fan and I have some new albums, and there is always next year for the full conversion. I am looking forward to it. htt p : / / t h e s a ge gate s h e a d . org/ http://www.soweto-kinch. com/ http://www.zaramcfarlane. com

As well as being a bit of a regular on Celebrity Juice, Never Mind the Buzzcocks and 8 out of 10 Cats you are now starring in the North East based sitcom Hebburn, how did that come about? - My mate and fellow comedian Jason Cook decided to write a sitcom about the town he was from, Hebburn, and he actually wrote me a little side part which he named after me. But when it came to being made the BBC asked me to read for the main character, and when I got it, Jason took the part that he’d written for me! It came about so gradually that I didn’t really realise the enormity of being lead role in a BBC2 sitcom until I saw the advert on TV. I nearly passed out. How has the response for Hebburn been so far? - Overwhelmingly positive. And we just won Best Drama at the RTS North awards too. And we’ve got a second series! You are now embarking on your biggest tour to date, how do you feel about this? - Yeah incredible! It’s an extension of my last tour, Feeling Lucky. I did 60+ dates in 2012 but the demand for tickets was so high and people enjoyed the show so much that I’m doing another 40 odd dates this year in much bigger venues. I can’t wait to get back out on the road.

Northern Vipers is a Co-Ed (mixed gender) cheerleading team based in the North East of England who compete at both National and International level. Cheerleading is a fast growing sport and is more than just the sideline cheer that everyone is familiar with. Northern Vipers was started in January 2011 by coach, Liam Heslop. Since starting the team, it has grown from 5 members to 20 members and almost half of the team are males. The team train regularly at Mortimer Community College in South Shields with the aim of being the best. Northern Vipers have been a part of

competitive cheerleading for 2 and a half years now and currently hold 3 National titles amongst many other trophies from different competitions held throughout the year. The team specialise in Group Stunt and Partner Stunt ranging from level 4 to level 6 (top level). Group Stunt requires 5 athletes; 2 fliers that are thrown around in the air by 3 bases. A 65 second routine is made up of consecutive stunts. Partner Stunt uses 1 base to lift and throw the flier into the air unassisted and is classed as an elite stunt. While holding the flier above

their heads, the bases fight to hold them there as steady as possible, allowing the flier to bend their body into impressive, flexible shapes. The bases will â&#x20AC;&#x153;popâ&#x20AC;? their flier into the air and watch them carefully twist and rotate before safely catching them. A group of bases will also loop hands together to form a basket and throw the flier 15 feet into the air, where the flier will then rotate and twist before being caught again. Stunts require impeccable teamwork and trust to achieve a creative routine that will wow competition judges and score highly.

Another successful UKCA National Championship competition see’s the Northern Vipers representing the UK in Europeans for the second year running. The European Cheerleading Championships (ECC) will be held in Rimini, Italy at the end of June ’13 and will include many elite European teams that also won National Championships held in their country. Last year’s experience of ECC showed Northern Vipers the level of cheerleading expected at International level and played a large part in the team’s future successes. Fast progressions of elite stunts came from extreme determination and stamina. The team not only impressed UKCA cheerleaders with their new stunts, but themselves in the process. They became the first team at UKCA to perform a double partner stunt that sees one base hold 2 fliers above his head, one on each arm.

The celebrations of being selected to represent the UK at ECC, Rimini continued when the team received an email from the president of Team UK. After watching back UKCA Nationals routines, Northern Vipers Black (Level 6) and Northern Vipers Partner Stunt were selected to become Team UKs first CoEd participants at the World Cheerleading Championships. World Championships will be held in Bangkok, Thailand in November ’13 and is a self funded competition. For this reason, the team are fundraising in many different ways. The team held a Fun Day at Mortimer Community College on 25th May ’13 to raise money to fund their dream trip to Worlds. This fun day included opportunities to try cheerleading stunts in a safe environment under professional supervision. Throughout the day, the stunt teams exhibited their skills

and give their audience an insight into what cheerleading is really like. Other activities featured in the fun day included trampolining, climbing wall, bouncy castle, cake sales, name the teddy, tombola, number of sweets in the jar along with many other stalls. Northern Vipers are also looking for any local companies that would be interested in sponsoring an impressive team; whether this would involve providing money towards the trip to Thailand or providing sporting equipment such as Tumble Tracks to further develop the team. In return for sponsorship, the team will promote local businesses by incorporating logos into training and travelling gear. The team will also announce businesses in local newspapers, on facebook and twitter pages, in cheerleading competition programmes and

by stunting with company banners. Other fundraising options are currently being discussed including sponsored 24 hour trampoline bounces and filling smarties tubes with spare 20p pieces. Updates on all fundraising will be announced on twitter and facebook in the coming months. The senior team are progressing to a Cheerleading routine consisting of all 20 members performing jumps, tumbles, stunts, dance and chants in a 2:30 minute routine with the hope of winning bids to Europeans at UKCA National Championships 2014. In the near future, Northern Vipers are aiming to expand by starting a junior team to follow in the footsteps of their seniors. Any interest in this can be expressed at the fun day or via the teams email, facebook or twitter. To track the teamsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; progress

and keep up to date with all upcoming events, follow them on twitter (@NorthernVipers) or find them on facebook by searching for their page, Northern Vipers. For any enquiries about the seniors or upcoming junior team, or for possible sponsorship, please contact the team via email: northernvipers@gmail.com.

The Man

with a BIG Heart Hi Tony and welcome to NE Online Magazine, how about telling our readers a bit about yourself? Well I am 56 years old and married with 3 kids and 3 grandchildren. I live in Ponteland near Newcastle. I have always enjoyed playing sport and entertainment so Variety was an easy choice for me. I like to sing and play the guitar. Also golf has become a new obsession! Variety, the Children’s Charity is a fantastic charity but could you tell us a bit more about it? It has quite a unique history really. On Xmas eve 1928, a baby was abandoned on the steps of the Sheridan Square Theatre with a note pinned to her dress! It read; Please take care of my baby. Her name is Catherine. I can no longer take care of her. I have eight others and my husband is out of work. She was born on Thanksgiving Day. I have always heard of the goodness of show business people and pray to god that you will look after her. Signed, a heartbroken mother Catherine’s parents were never found. Catherine was effectively ‘adopted’ by a

group of show business folk who named her CATHERINE ‘VARIETY’ SHERIDAN! They provided for her until the age of 5 when she was formally adopted. Catherine went on to live a full life having children and grandchildren of her own. She died in 1994 her legacy however proved to be far greater. From the group of 11, who formed the Variety Club charity in 1928.It led to Variety as we now know it which is truly global. It has now been operating in the UK. Over 60 years. We are most commonly known for our unique sky blue Sunshine Coaches but we supply lots of support to sick, disabled and disadvantaged children across the North East. Everything from wheelchairs

to sensory equipment. We also help children to have memorable experiences such as trips to sporting events, theme parks, cinemas and theatres. People might not realise that variety is split into regions; can you tell us how that works and why it is done that way? Yes, basically we have a headquarters in London but the rest of the country is divided into 8 regions. What this allows us to do is operate on a national level with big corporate sponsors but very importantly we raise funds locally to spend locally. So how did you come to be involved with them? It was a chance meeting with the then chair Bob Gladwin. I told him that I

was recently retired and that I would like to get involved with a children’s charity. The rest as they say is history! And how have things changed since you first started helping? Charities are like running small businesses and the recession has hit everybody. We have therefore had to work really hard to make sure we are efficient. None of the volunteers who work for Variety are paid at all. We also have to make sure that functions that we run as fundraisers are affordable. Having said this we still manage to provide loads of useful equipment to the children and it’s very rewarding. What ways do you use to raise money? We are best known for our tributes to local people who have both achieved in their careers and helped North East charities such as Sir Bobby Robson, Alan Shearer, Sting, Robson Green, Tim Healey and Denise Welch, Mark Knopfler, the Duchess of Northumberland and most recently we had a great evening with Joe McElderry. But that is not all we do. We run golf competitions, dances, musical evenings and most anything that raises funds. It is incredible how little money we need sometimes to change a young person’s life! Also there are many occasions when people have their own events or complete some challenge such as the Great North Run and donate the proceeds to Variety which is incredibly helpful. Of course with the way Variety is set up we can spend every penny of that on the children. What has been the highlight so far for you? Difficult one! The best bit is always when you deliver whatever we have bought to the child and see their reaction.

How can our readers get involved with Variety? There are many ways, from joining the committee to helping at events, sponsoring equipment or running their own events. We are always looking to harness people’s skills and creativity. Or simply text VCNR12 to 70070 to make a small donation You recently put on a tribute to Joe McElderry, what went into putting on such a big event? It is like managing any large project really. We have to set up a group of people with the relevant skills and draw up a plan. Everything from the budget to the entertainment to the flowers on the table needs to be planned and delivered. It is a bit like planning a wedding! Then there is the day itself to manage. It is quite challenge but the event with Joe was so good. I remember standing at the back of the function room and watching almost

everybody in the room dancing while Joe sang and thinking how worthwhile all the work had been. If you could have anyone at a Variety event who would it be and why? An impossible question as there are so many people with North East connections in the world of entertainment. We have lots of heated discussions in our committee meetings about this! Personally Al Pacino (I am a big fan) Tell us 3 random facts about yourself? I once appeared in a stage musical as a gangster, I broke both arms and both legs playing sport in about a 2 year period and I love Italian wine and food. What would you like to see happen with Variety in 2013? I want to see us doing more of what we are best known for. Working in partnership with people from the world of sport and entertainment to

raise funds. I mean this in the widest sense. Not just known celebrities but people at the grass roots level. Variety is a relatively old term but it simply means a broad range of entertainment. I would also like to ensure that the charity becomes more involved with a diverse range of fundraisers such as working with young people and different ethnic groups.

Where can our readers learn more or keep up to date with local events and fundraisers? We have a website at www. varietynorth.org.uk which is regularly updated but anyone who wants to talk can contact our office on 0191 2145959 Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays Is there anything you would like to say to our readers?

Our aim is simple. To improve childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives and give them some of the freedom, independence and dignity that we all take for granted. It is about releasing their undoubted potential. A great example of this in action was last year at the para-olympics. We helped some of the young people for the 3 years leading up to the games. Who subsequently went on to do us proud and won some won medals!! What an achievment!! Significantly the games were a sell-out. A realisation that disability SHOULD not stop young people and their aspirations.

SCREEN-CON 2013 finally touched down at the Parks Leisure centre in North Shields. For the people behind the scenes it has been months of hard work, stress and a lot of sleepless nights. For the Sci-Fi fans of the North East it was an out of this world day spent mingling with the stars, dressing up and having so much fun. For those of you who didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t attend this time then hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a round up of what was an amazing day to rival any of the big Sci-Fi conventions that are held further down south.

Doors opened at 10am but NE was lucky enough to be there from 8:30am which was a great insight into all the hard work involved, seeing all the traders setting up their stalls, the guys from the Universal Alliance and the 99th Garrison getting ready to wow the crowds dressed like a whole array of characters from TV shows and Films, everything from Indiana Jones and Captain America to a load of Stormtroopers and Borg. On top of all of this there was a whole host of special guests attending from the world of

Doctor Hi ChrisWho and welcome and Star to Wars. NE For Magazine, me thisfor was the a dream few readers come true. who must I got to bemeet livingmy in Doctor, a cave If somewhere you are a and Doctor don’t Who know fan you who you will are know howwat about I mean. giving Everyone th em a no quick matter l owwhat down age has o n yourself? thier own Doctor, the one they - Hello! gotCan’t intohelp Doctor but think Who with I’m writing their portrayal your interview of the Doctor. introduction For me, forthat youwashere, the 7th oh incarnation well… I’m ofathestand-up Doctor, the comedian legendfrom thatSouth is Sylvester Shields McCoy. and I’m Ialso was alucky bit of enough an actor to get nowa chance and then… to chat butwith mainly him before a comedian… the event thatopened might not its doors come to across the public as well and I as have it to should say Iinwasn’t print form, dissapointed. but I am. He So there. was really friendly and so genuine and had time for his At the moment it’s hard not seeing you on the TV when we switch it on as you’re everywhere, but what has been the highlight for you so far? - Not everywhere though am I? If you turn on QVC and I’m selling a frying pan, just assume you’ll find me floating face down in a river very soon. The highlight for me so far was probably being in Hebburn. Since starting comedy I always wanted to try my hand at being in a sitcom too so I was over the moon to do one with my mate and so close to my heart, and I got to work with Vic Reeves. I know you had a bit of a crazy time with fans wanting pics and autographs when you were having a few drinks in a South Shields recently, fans, people likebar me. I was how are you finding this, does even treated to an impromtu it put you offtimelords going out? sketch about always - Not atlate all. between Any person in that being him and position Bulloch who has(Boba been on TV Jeremy Fett), whatever people want Iorjust wish iand had of caught photos trying that on (I’m video. Somemy of best you not tonot say know celebrity here!) may Sylvester whoDoctor pretends they as Who buthate as the attentionRadagast is a liar.the YouBrown don’t Wizard gothe for new a career TV because in film on version of The you don’t want anyone to Hobbit., which he said he has notice you. As longthough as I’m not enjoyed filming, he eating or having agive shit much when wouldnt/couldn’t you want a photo then it’s He no more away about his role. problem at all… I meant, like was an absolute gentleman on the toilet, notthe justcrowd. in the and a big hit with middle of the dancefloor.

Hi Mark, It was great meeting you at Screen-Con, so how about telling our readers a bit about yourself? I’m from Cramlington, and work a few different jobs. One as an Internet TV presenter, and the other as a tour guide at the BBC! So how did you come to be involved with Screen-Con? I was looking to build up my TV presenter show reel and as I’m a massive fan of films (sci-fi specifically). I wanted to make a short demo program interviewing guests and geeking out at the same time. Then Al (organiser) contacted me afterwards to ask if I would host! Have you attended many conventions before, if so how does it rate compared to others? Truth be told, this was my first convention EVER! Being a recent ex-student I still don’t have the funds, or the time, to travel down south to the big cons so Screen-Con was a fantastic opportunity for a younger audience based in the North East to access this kind of event! So how did you find it being the host and running the show? I loved it! It took my back to my days working as on the ents team at Whitley Bay

Caravan Park but on a much more epic scale! Being my first convention, I wasn’t sure what to expect but I’m hooked and am hoping to do it again! What was the highlight of Screen-Con for you? Having the chance to interview Boba Fett (Jeremy Bulloch) was pretty awesome, however, my highlight had to be interview Dalek Bruce and getting a chance to pilot him! I want a Dalek! You were dressed up as the 10th Doctor from Doctor Who, was that because you are a fan or just for the ease of costume? It was a bit of both, I felt like I had to do a costume as it’s part of a convention. However, I’m not great at

building things and I had to work on a budget too. If you are a fan who is your favourite Doctor and why? Matt Smith! He’s absolutely my favourite. I’ve watched back some of the Tennant years and think he’s great but as soon as The Doctor regenerated to Matt Smith (11th Doctor) he’d won me over. Plus... bow-ties are cool!

I’m currently presenting once a week, usually a Thursday 11am-12pm on NE1fm. It’s a community radio station for Newcastle/Gateshead but you can access it online if you’re further away. You’ll also see me at the next screen-con in October (www.screen-con. com for more) and I’m going to be playing the lead in “oil lamp productions” version of “avenue q” at the Durham assembly rooms between the 30th July until 3rd August. It’s the first amateur dramatic production of the musical outside of London. Tickets are available through ticket master. Other than that? Hopefully you’ll see me on TV one day soon!

And the same for your favourite monster? I just think the Daleks are brilliant. Anything that’s been created to feel no emotions must be terrifying. The Weeping Angels are quite creepy too though!

I own a Muppet style puppet called Melvyn Murdock who I sometimes perform with at comedy nights, I own four dogs, and... I’m learning British Sign Language.

Did you treat yourself to anything from the many stalls and traders? In all honesty, I was so busy hosting I forgot to have a look! I did manage to get an autograph and pic with Sylvester McCoy though!

Where can people find you next?

How can people follow you and keep up to date with you? You can follow me on twitter @ukmarkpercy or like me on facebook at www.facebook. com/ukmarkpercy. You can also learn more about me on my website which is www. markpercy.net Thanks for taking the time to speak to us and I’m sure we will see you at the next event. Hey, it’s been great! Hope to see you all at the next con in October.

If you could pick the next 5 guests who would they be and why?? Hmm... Anthony Daniels (C-3PO), Patrick Stewart (Cpt. Picard), Alex Kingston (River Song), Matt Smith (11th DR) and Kermit The Frog (Yeah I know... dream big eh?) Tell us 3 random facts about yourself?

Another guest to attend Screen-Con 2013 was Star Wars most infamous Bounty Hunter...Boba Fett, aka Jeremy Bulloch. Jeremy spent most of the day outside of the guest area posing for photos and signing autographs, he also appeared on stage when he took on the Master of Escapology, Captain Chris Cross. Jeremy was another fan fvourite and was even nice enough to sign a fans full size replica Han Solo frozen in carbonite which the owner kindly loaned to Screen Con for display, the owner was James Brown from the costume group Universal Alliance, you will hear more about James and the UA next month. Screen Con were very lucky to have the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s smallest man and the star of Harry Potter, Labyrinth, Willow and Star Wars as another of their special guests. Standing at 2ft 11 inches, that man is Michael Henbury. Michael told me he only usually attends 2 conventions a year so fans were really lucky to get a chance to meet

I know had a bit of He a crazy him atyou Screen-Con. was anHow has the response for time withpleasure fans wanting pics absolute to talk to and heHebburn been so far? - Overwhelmingly positive. and autographs loved chatting withwhen all theyou fans. And we just won Best Drama were having a few drinks in a South Shields recently, Another special bar guest was Alanat the RTS North awards how arewho you finding Harris playedthis, thedoes Bountytoo. And we’ve got a second it put you off in going Hunter Bossk Starout? Wars. Alan wasseries! - Not all. Any person in that a bit at more elusive during the day position whoget hasa been on to TVcatchYou are now embarking on and I didn’t chance or whatever want up with him and untilpeople the end, but heyour biggest tour to date, photos (I’m he trying my best did tell me had really enjoyedhow do you feel about this? not to say and celebrity here!) Screen-Con said it was a better- Yeah incredible! It’s an who pretends they themoreextension of my last tour, atmosphere than thehate bigger Feeling Lucky. I did 60+ dates attention is conventions. a liar. You don’t well known in 2012 but the demand for go for a career on TV because you final don’tspecial want guest anyone The wastoLaurietickets was so high and people notice you. long asSaurin I’m notand aenjoyed the show so much Goode whoAsplayed eating or having a shitWars. whenLauriethat I’m doing another 40 Stormtrooper in Star you want photo it’s and no wasodd dates this year in much came withahis ownthen camera bigger venues. I can’t wait to problem at all…during I meant, snapping away the like day. get back out on the road. on the toilet, not just in the middle of the dancefloor. All of the special guests took the

Hi Andrew, It was great meeting you at Screen-Con, so how about telling our readers a bit about yourself? Hi Wayne, it was great chatting to you at Screen-Con & hope you enjoyed it as much as I did. I’m a sport fitness coach from Newcastle. I’ve been trading for about 9 months but have been a collector for over 15 years. So how did you hear about Screen-Con? I was contacted by the event organisers, who asked if I would be interested in attending as one of the traders at the event. I felt it was an opportunity I had to jump at, as the buzz around the event was great & I believed it would be a fantastic show. I wasn’t disappointed. Have you attended many conventions, if so how does it rate compared to others? I’ve been attending shows as a collector for about 15 years. It takes me all over the country & I get to meet some fantastic guests. So having a show on my own doorstep was great. They had a great line up & it was one of the best organised shows I’ve attended. I think everyone involved & attending have had a day they won’t forget. So how did you get started as a trader? After being made redundant, I decided to sell some of my

collection so I would have some money to pay bills & so on. I checked out various media to sell on & found that up to a 3rd of any money I made would be taken in charges. I decided that I would sell it myself so I didn’t have to pay those charges & the rest is history. And what is it you sell? Pearson Collectables specialise in autographed memorabilia from Film, TV & Sport. It ranges from signed photos & posters to sporting goods & film used props. We also carried a large stock of trading cards. Whether it’s Batman, Harry Potter or Star Wars, there’s something for everyone & I would like to think they’re at some of the best prices you can find. Can people buy from you in other ways or only at events? I also have an online store at: www.pearsoncollectables.

wix.com/pearsoncollectables Have you had any funny/weird experiences as a trader? Not as a trader, but as a collector I have lots. I think if you ever leave a show & don’t have a funny story then the show hasn’t been a success. I bet there’s more than a few can come from Screen-Con. I think it’s the people you go with as well that make the day special. I remember attending a show with my dad & meeting Mark Sheppard. Mark & my dad spent about an hour arguing over a male Starbuck becoming female in Battlestar Galatica. About 2 years later we meet Mark again & him & dad picked up right where they left off at the past show. I remember sitting there as Mark signed autographs for fans while he & my dad continued to disagree & try to wind each other up. They still haven’t agreed & I’m sure one day they will have round 3.

You sell signed photos, is there any autograph you would love to get your hands on or anyone you would like to meet to get one? Heath Ledger as the Joker. It’s my holy grail. I’ve been offered a few but they always have a question mark over them & if I’m not 100% sure then I would never be happy with it. Any tips for people buying autographs? To many to list, but the best tips I have are: a. Do your research – Knowing when & where the autograph was signed is the first thing. If the person your buy from can’t answer this without good reason then you have to ask why? What proof do they have, I try to provide photo evidence of the autograph being signed, but this is not always possible. Check the asking price, if the

price is to good to be true then it probably is. b. Make sure it’s the on you want – Your going to be the one who has to live with it. c. Buy from dealers you trust – There’s lots of great dealers out there, but unfortunately there is a lot of bad one’s too. Tell us 3 random facts about yourself? 1. Life long Tottenham Hotspurs fan. 2. My favourite film is the original Clash Of The Titans. 3. My dream is to own a 69 Dodge Charger. Where can people find you next? The next show I will be attending as a dealer will be SciFair at The Seaburn Centre in Sunderland. It’s the first show I’ve have done there & I’m excited to see some

familiar faces & hopefully a lot of new one’s. How can people follow you and keep up to date with you? (websites, facebook, twitter etc) I have a Facebook page & I also use our main page on the website to keep everyone up to date with everything we have coming up. Really trying to get our Facebook page going and would welcome some new fans & would love to hear from, or get some feedback from some of our costumers from Screen-Con, or any of the other shows I have been a dealer at. Thanks for taking the time to speak to us and Im sure we will see you at the next event

Hi Chris and welcome to NE Have you had any weird fan Magazine, for the few readers requests or incidents? who must be living in a cave - Not really. The odd person somewhere and don’t know will show up to a gig with my who you are how about giving face on a T-Shirt, or bake me th em a quick l ow- down a cake, or send me a dead o n yourself? animal in the post but other - Hello! Can’t help but think than that it’s just photos I’m writing your interview and autographs. A little kid introduction for you here, in Hebburn when we were oh well… I’m a stand-up filming asked me to sign his comedian from South Shields micro scooter… that was a bit and I’m also a bit of an actor weird. now and then… but mainly a comedian… that might not come as on well ople through theacross door but the as dayitthereAs well as being a bit of a in printwe form, buthad I am. s some ofshould the photo’s have sent inregular on Celebrity Juice, Soand there. the emails messages we have recievedNever Mind the Buzzcocks ys behind the scenes can be proud of theirand 8 out of 10 Cats you are At the moment it’sallhard loved Screen-Con and they had not so muchnow starring in the North East you on 2013 the TV oll on theseeing 12th October forwhen their nextbased sitcom Hebburn, how did that come about? we switch it on as you’re - My mate and fellow everywhere, but what has comedian Jason Cook decided been the highlight for you to write a sitcom about the so far? town he was from, Hebburn, - Not everywhere though and he actually wrote me am I? If you turn on QVC a little side part which he and I’m selling a frying pan, named after me. But when it just assume you’ll find me came to being made the BBC floating face down in a river asked me to read for the main very soon. The highlight for character, and when I got it, me so far was probably being Jason took the part that he’d in Hebburn. Since starting written for me! It came about comedy I always wanted to try so gradually that I didn’t my hand at being in a sitcom really realise the enormity too so I was over the moon to of being lead role in a BBC2 do one with my mate and so sitcom until I saw the advert close to my heart, and I got to on TV. I nearly passed out. work with Vic Reeves. I know you had a bit of a crazy time with fans wanting pics and autographs when you were having a few drinks in a South Shields bar recently, how are you finding this, does it put you off going out? - Not at all. Any person in that position who has been on TV or whatever and people want photos (I’m trying my best not to say celebrity here!) who pretends they hate the attention is a liar. You don’t go for a career on TV because you don’t want anyone to notice you. As long as I’m not eating or having a shit when you want a photo then it’s no problem at all… I meant, like on the toilet, not just in the middle of the dancefloor.

How has the response for Hebburn been so far? - Overwhelmingly positive. And we just won Best Drama at the RTS North awards too. And we’ve got a second series! You are now embarking on your biggest tour to date, how do you feel about this? - Yeah incredible! It’s an extension of my last tour, Feeling Lucky. I did 60+ dates in 2012 but the demand for tickets was so high and people enjoyed the show so much that I’m doing another 40 odd dates this year in much bigger venues. I can’t wait to get back out on the road.

www.josephphilliparcher.co.uk

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Hi Chris and welcome to NE Magazine, for the few readers who must be living in a cave somewhere and don’t know who you are how about giving th em a quick l ow- down on o n yours yourself? elf? - Hello! Can’t help but think I’m writing your interview introduction for you here, oh well… I’m a stand-up comedian from South Shields and I’m also a bit of an actor now and then… but mainly a comedian… that might not come across as well as it should in print form, but I am. So there. At the moment it’s hard not seeing you on the TV when we switch it on as you’re everywhere, but what has been the highlight for you so far? - Not everywhere though am I? If you turn on QVC and I’m selling a frying pan, just assume you’ll find me floating face down in a river very soon. The highlight for me so far was probably being in Hebburn. Since starting comedy I always wanted to try my hand at being in a sitcom too so I was over the moon to do one with my mate and so close to my heart, and I got to work with Vic Reeves. I know you had a bit of a crazy time with fans wanting pics and autographs when you were having a few drinks in a South Shields bar recently, how are you finding this, does it put you off going out? - Not at all. Any person in that position who has been on TV or whatever and people want photos (I’m trying my best not to say celebrity here!) who pretends they hate the attention is a liar. You don’t go for a career on TV because you don’t want anyone to notice you. As long as I’m not eating or having a shit when you want a photo then it’s no problem at all… I meant, like on the toilet, not just in the middle of the dancefloor.

Are there any venues on the Have fan tour you that had youany areweird looking requests forward or to incidents? playing or any -you’re Not really. The oddabout? person quite nervous will show Theatre up to a gigRoyal with my - The in face on a T-Shirt, or bakecan’t me Newcastle. I absolutely a cake, or send me a panto dead wait. I used to watch animal in the post but I’m other there when I was a kid. than that it’s just photos and autographs. A little kid in Hebburn when we were filming asked me to sign his micro scooter… that was a bit weird.

How has the response for Hebburn been so far? - Overwhelmingly positive. And we just won Best Drama at the RTS North awards too. And we’ve got a second series!

You are now embarking on your biggest tour to date, how do you feel about this? - Yeah incredible! It’s an extension of my last tour, Feeling Lucky. I did 60+ dates in 2012 but the demand for tickets was so high and people enjoyed the show so much that I’m doing another 40 odd dates this year in much bigger venues. I can’t wait to get back out on the road.

Hot new Band The Vamps took a few minutes to chat with us ahead of their appearance at North East Live...So time to meet the band... Bradley Will Simpson - Lead Vocals, Guitar James McVey - Guitar, Vocals Connor Ball - Bass, Vocals Tristan Evans - Drums, Vocals Welcome to NE Magazine, so for those of our readers who don’t know you how about telling them where are you from? (Con) I’m from Aberdeen in Scotland originally and lived there till I was 4 then moved and I now live in a place called Warwick. The other guys are from Birmingham, Bournemouth and Exeter - so everywhere I guess. Where did the name come from? (Brad) Well a lot of names were thrown around in the early stages, some very very bad names, and some good ones. At first we weren’t too fond of The Vamps but it grew on us and kinda stuck :) When did you form and how did it come about? (James) Bradley and myself formed The Vamps in the Autumn of 2011. It honestly started in our bedrooms with two acoustic guitars. I had stumbled across Brad on youtube in early October of that year, and by December, we were spending most weekends together writing songs. Roughly 6 months later I found Tristan on ‘Facebook’

and, within two weeks, he had joined the band. From there, we continued to write our own material and also started posting cover videos onto youtube. We were blown away by the incredible global support we received in response to these videos, and realised that in order to perform live shows on our own, we needed a bassist. We found Connor a few months later, and here we are today! Tell us 1 Random fact about each band member? (Con) James - he wears socks to bed! Tris - he loves caffeine so much! No wonder we call him the animal! Brad - I think brad loves taking a bath a bit too much! But at least he is clean How did you come to be involved with North East Live? (Tris) We have a great team around us, and they have helped us achieve a spot in the North East Live 2013 line up! We are grateful to have this opportunity!

Have you ever performed in such a big concert before with so many other stars? (Brad) No way! Haha, we all started out playing the pub gigs to one man and his dog, so I don’t think any of us have ever played with such a talented line up! Is this your first appearance here in the North East? (James) We were lucky enough to have the privilege of touring with McFLY In April and May of this year. Whilst touring we visited Newcastle and, aside from the cliche remarks regularly bounced around by bands in interviews, the crowd there was unbelievable! Honestly, Newcastle has some LOUD people haha. So whilst North East Live won’t be the first time we play here, it is certainly an event we are looking forward to! What has been your most memorable moment to date so far? (Con) Playing Wembley Arena has been the best thing so far, it was incredible and just didn’t feel real at all. We are so lucky to have had that opportunity!

Who inspires you? (James) We are inspired by any other act that is successfulwe respect musicians such as ‘Ben Howard’, and ‘Ed Sheeran’, who write their own material. That said, we also admire boy bands like ‘One Direction’, and ‘The Wanted’; anybody who can achieve success as widespread as they can is obviously doing something right! If you could make 1 person disappear for good who would it be and why? (Tris) I don’t have any specific people in mind, but I guess those that are disrespectful and take things for granted really get on my nerves! Do you have a rider and if so what is on it? (Con) So far when we have got to the venues we have been getting mainly water and red bulls. We wanted to put lottery tickets on our rider but our manager wouldn’t let

us. Where would you like to gig the most? (Brad) We were lucky enough to tour with McFly so we played the majority of the UK and every gig was incredible! There are a few places that really stand out, but i dunno maybe somewhere hot like brazil and the fans seem crazy out there, America wouldn’t be too bad either haha! If you could travel back in time when would you travel back to and why? (James) It sounds weird, but I’d love to travel back to when my Grandparents were my age, just to see what they were like! If you could play with anyone in the world, past or present who would it be and why? (Brad) That’s a hard question! There are so many people! Past, for me, it would be someone like

Kurt Cobain. Present.. Paolo Nutini or Dave Grohl because they’ve both had such a huge influence on my music, but I’d just like to have a huge show with everyone I could think of! What’s the most embarrassing thing you have ever done at a gig? (Tris) About a year ago I played my first ‘big show’, with too much excitement I chucked a drumstick into the crowed and accidentally hit someone in the face. They eventually had to go into hospital. As well as the guilt, I felt embarrassed! I shall not mention the location or date of this event! Share a secret with us? (Con) I love to play computer games till like 3 in the morning on my off days... If you were not playing in a band what would you be doing instead? (James) I would probably be studying

History or university.

English

What do you like to do to relax in your spare time? (Brad) Baths! I love baths to relax, so I have them when I’m at home. But I like just chilling out, seeing family or playing Xbox. Switching off haha.

What can we expect from you in 2013? (Con) Well there are many treats to be expected ;) we have many summer shows, going to New York to write some tunes and then also we may be releasing one of our own tunes... But who knows...

Do you have any annoying or bad habits? (Con) Well, throughout the day I click my neck loads and pull my head to the side to make it crack... I get the weirdest looks when I do it in public.

If there’s anything you want to add feel free? (james) We just want to express a huge thank you for given us the opportunity to share such a large stage with some incredible acts! We can’t wait to play North East Live and we hope that everyone who attends has just as much fun as we do!

Or any rituals you do before you perform? (Tris) Before every show we always weirdly huddle and touch chins, don’t ask! Have you had any funny/ weird fan incidents? (James) We are lucky to have some of the most supportive fans we could ever wish for. Consequently, our fans like to send us presents and cards via our fan mail address. Generally, the gifts we receive are lovely; we eat A LOT of sweets and chocolate thanks to our fans! However, the weirdest thing I’ve ever been sent by a fan was a small pouch of pubic hair... Needless to say both Bradley and myself screamed- We are more careful when we open fan mail now! Haha.

Where can people follow you/keep up to date with you? (Tris) You can access everything through our website which is www.thevamps.net People can also follow ‘The Vamps’ twitter by searching @ thevampsband, My personal twitter is @thevampstristan

Why should people come and listen to you? (Brad) People should come and listen to us because we enjoy writing our songs and they are about real experiences and i feel you can sense that when listening to them! We also like to run around and have lots of fun onstage so people should come and join in!

The Vamps will be performing at North East Live at the Stadium of Light, Sunderland on Saturday, June 22. The five hour music extravaganza, will also feature JLS, The Wanted, Rita Ora and more. Tickets priced from £25 are still available and can be purchased online atwww. aeglive.co.uk or by calling 0871 230 1097 or 0844 477 5775