NE Online Magazine Issue 44 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 o m e N o t e . We l l i t i s 2 0 2 0 , a b ra n d n e w y e a r a n d a b ra n d n e w d e c a d e t o o , s o t h a t m e a n s w e h a v e a b ra n d n e w N E A r t i s t O f T h e Ye a r w i t h Z o e G i l b y, s o w e l o o k fo r w a r d t o fo l l o w i n g a n d s u p p o r t i n g h e r fo r t h e n e x t 6 i s s u e s . We h a v e s t a r t e d t h e y e a r t h e w a y w e m e a n t o g o o n . . .w i t h a n o t h e r p a c ke d i s s u e s o e n j o y. As always, if you have something you want to see in a future issue then d o n â&#x20AC;&#x2122; t fo r g e t t o d r o p u s a n e m a i l t o wayne. groves@neonlinemagazine. com P l u s r e m e m b e r t o fo l l o w u s o n Fa c e b o o k , Tw i t t e r & I n s t a g ra m fo r our regular updates on events and competitions. Till next time Ta ke c a r e Wa y n e

EDITOR & DESIGNER Wayne Groves wayne.groves@neonlinemagazine.com

O2 Academy Newcastle/City Hall www.o2academynewcastle.co.uk Sage Gateshead www.sagegateshead.com Ocean Beach Pleasure Park www.oceanbeach.co.uk Quasar Elite South Shields www.quasarsouthshields.co.uk For all queries or if you would like to feature or advertise in NE Magazine email wayne.groves@neonlinemagazine.com Unless stated otherwise all competition entries should be sent to win@ neonlinemagazine.com Plus you can catch up with us online for news, events, blogs, competitions and more at www.neonlinemagazine.com Follow us on Facebook - www.facebook. com/pages/N-E-Online-Magazine Join us on Twitter @NEOnlineMag1 And Instagram @neonlinemagazine

CONTRIBUTORS Peter Mann BSc Inside Mann Media & PR insidemannmedia.wordpress.com petermann78@hotmail.com Madhouse Media www.madhousemedia.co.uk SPONSORS Playhouse Whitley Bay www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk Cineworld Boldon www.cineworld.co.uk The Theatre Royal Newcastle www.theatreroyal.co.uk/

{THIS} {ISSUE} P6 NE Artist Of The Year Zoe Gilby P12 Ben Potts Guitar Hero P20 Electric Ladies Of The 80â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s P30 Sapien Trace P36 Kevin Ho Photography P48 Cineworld Film Round Up P62 Steve Luck & The Great Northern Piano Sessions P66 Sam Dickinson P70 Coming to Playhouse Whitley Bay P74 Northern Threads P76 Ryton Retro WrestleFest P78 Coming to Sage Gateshead P82 Thousand Miles Krakow 5

{NE 2020 Artist of

the Year Zoe Gilby]

ZOE GILBY, AND ALL THAT JAZZ!! Following a cheeky little warmup in her hometown, Jazz musician, Zoe Gilby, has rolled up the sleeves and set herself about making this another year to remember. In finishing 2019 as the Parliamentary Jazz Awards Jazz Vocalist of the Year, Zoe begins what promises to be a hectic 2020 as the NE Online Magazine Artist of the Year, she continuing to be that blustery, heavenly vocalised, force to be reckoned with. Not only is she excited, and rightly so, but those around her are as well because, not only are there plenty of outings in the offing, there’s also the small matter of not one, but two, new releases to come as the year progresses. Alongside some opening gigs this year, Zoe’s focus, so far, is on one

of her two releases this year, The Aurora Project, it now having been put to bed, all ready for a Spring release following a couple of days hard graft at Newcastle’s Loft Studios. “It’s been a real treat to record nine of these amazing, Tom Harrell compositions, over just two days straight after New Year,” she smiled when looking back at those studio days. “Laying the tracks down in the fabulous Loft Recording Studios in Newcastle, I cannot fault this studio, it is brilliant and the Recording Engineer, Adam Sinclair, was superb whilst the musicians really did bring it all to life. “It was a relaxed yet a superproductive session with Mark Williams (guitar), Noel Dennis (trumpet and flugelhorn horn), Andy Champion (double bass), Russ Morgan (drums) and myself on vocals, singing the lyrics which I wrote for a project that

is so dear to my heart and one which we can’t wait to release in the spring.” Spinning back to the end of 2019 though, and that Parliamentary Awards night, it was to be an outcome that came as something of a surprise to Zoe, more so considering the calibre of Jazz musician she was up against. Other nominations that night, in early December, were Claire Martin, Georgia Mancio and Cherise and to which Zoie afterwards dedicated to her father, stating on her social media – “Oh my! Cannot believe I actually won #allpartyparliamentarygroup #jazzvocalist 2019 Honoured to be shortlisted alongside these exceptional artists @georgiamancio @ clairemartinjazz @cherisemusic Congratulations to all the other nominees in all categories, huge respect for all your hard work and talent. Thank you #jazzcommunity for keeping this

music and flame alive. Thank you my wonderful #family #friends for their support and to the #promoters who helped me and believed in me. To the great #musicians I have learnt from and joined me on this journey. You all know who you are! I love @andychampionbass Thank you to my dad, love you miss you RIP xxxxx @ London, United Kingdom.” “Just to be shortlisted for the award was enough for me,” added Zoe looking back on that surprising night. “To actually win it though, was incredible. “I hadn’t even thought of winning, especially when you consider the calibre of musician I was up against, and the fact nobody this far north has won it either.” It has certainly been an additional catapult to propel her into the New Year, and the ‘Roaring Twenties,’ and with a number of projects on the go herself, it’s going to be busy, so busy that she’s already enlisted help (some bloke called Peter Mann, anyone heard of him!) With both Aurora coming alongside the expected release of a new album which has been two-and-a-half years in the making, an original composition coming under what will be a jazz, alt-pop, rock and prog umbrella, so ultimately an eclectic mix of sounds from the flame-haired Tynesider. “‘Living in the Shadows’ is a different direction for us and is very much something we’ve been writing and recording for over two years,” she added, understandably coy on her baby. “It will be very exciting to see the reaction online as we release the music videos and the songs which will be available to download.”

The coming months are set to see Zoe appear on a number of occasions, in fact she’s backed

up with performances most of the year with some exciting announcements still too come, with outings in Ipswich, Huddersfield, Newcastle and Kirkcaldy pencilled for February, followed sharply by Leeds, Hexham, the Gateshead International Jazz Festival (at Sage Gateshead) and a possible run over to Leuven, Belgium, rounding off a rather interesting March. Starting as she very much means

to go on, who’d be brave enough to bet against her rounding off the beginning of the roaring twenties with yet another award. Keep up-to-date with all things Zoe Gilby via her website www.zoegilby.co.uk/ and social media outlets Facebook https://www. facebook.com/ZoeGilby/ and Twitter https://twitter.com/ ZoeGilbyMusic

[ne 2020 artist of the Year]

[Zoe Gilby]

BEN POTTS...GUITAR HERO Not all heroes wear capes, just like not every deed gets reported in a day and age full of doom and gloom, but this is one act of kindness that really does deserve some attention. Ben Potts from North East band ‘Sons Of Eden’ recently decided to pay it forward by giving one lucky person a helping hand in a life of music by giving them a guitar and amp for free, wanting nothing in return except to know that he has helped someone. He posted the following on the bands facebook page… “I started playing the guitar when I was 13, I’m now 36. If someone had done what I’m about to do when I was starting out I’d of been over the moon and it would of been a massive help! I want to give this Fender USA Telecaster and Orange amp, (both with hard cases) away to someone who is just starting out like I was when I was young. Totally genuine, I just want to help, I know what it’s like to want a decent guitar and amp. I’m not bothered about all this bullshit “share our page” bollocks either. You don’t have to do that, I

don’t care about that. All you have to do is drop me a private message on why you should have it, I’ll pick someone next Friday.”

Understandably this post was shared quite a few times, 375 times to be exact, it was also commented on 164 times and Ben had hundreds of messages from lots of deserving people. So he had

the unenviable task of whittling it down to just one person, no easy task. But out of all of the people who messaged putting themselves or someone they know forward for this amazing prize, Ben chose 16 year old Lainie Groves to become the new owner of his Fender USA Telecaster and Orange amp. Lainie thought she was visiting a friend of her dads to chat about music and playing instruments, as she is currently doing a music course at South Tyneside College and she lives for her music, so loves chatting to anyone involved with music or in bands. Ben greeted her and asked if she played any instruments, replying that she plays guitar and keyboard, Ben handed her the Fender asking what she thought of it? Taking the guitar she commented how stunning it was, to which Ben replied “that’s good, as it is now your guitar, your dad nominated you for a competition to win that guitar and the Orange amp over there, so now they are both yours.”

Lainie stood there shell shocked not knowing what to say, in fact it took quite a while for it to sink in what was happening. She has since taken the guitar into college to show her friends and tutors with them all wanting to play it, all commenting on how good a sounding guitar it is. She will be

using it for her upcoming collage performances and still can’t believe how kind Ben is to just give them away as in her words “Honestly it’s such a gorgeous guitar, a dream to play too. I can’t wait to play with the amp. Never thought I’d get to play one, never mind own one, it’s my dream amp.” So it is safe to say Ben has

made the right choice as they have both gone to a good home, someone who is already cherishing them and making full use of them already and she can’t wait to have Ben watch her perform properly using them both so she can make him proud. Now this act of kindness really was amazing to see, especially when there’s so much negativity in the world these days, so please show Ben some love, if you get the chance to catch Sons Of Eden play live then please do, give them a like and follow on their social media. If you want any proof of how talented they are then watch their amazing cover of Sweet Disposition (The Temper Trap) cover by Sons of Eden on youtube here, you really won’t be disappointed. If you want them to play at your event, venue, wedding or any other function then make sure you book them and prepare to have an amazing time! This is a band and a

man who deserves some recognition so this is our way of paying it forward. Well done Ben Potts you absolute legend and such a true gentleman.

www.sonsofeden.co.uk www.facebook.com/Sonsofeden/ www.instagram.com/sons_of_ eden/ twitter.com/Sons_of_Eden

Hi Colin, welcome to NE, can 80s

stars take Electric Ladies show on the road, including two northeast dates Popular music has seen some incredible talent over the years and two it’s iconic, female stars, Toyah Wilcox and Hazel O’Connor, will head out on tour early next year on a fourteen-

date music marathon. During April and May 2020 the duo will take ‘Electric Ladies of the 80s; on the road from Swindon on April 16 to Edinburgh on May 2, fourteen dates for which music lovers in the northeast have two bites of the cherry – Sage Gateshead on April 29, and The Princess Alexandra

Auditorium, Yarm, on May 1. Their paths initially crossed during the putting together of Breaking Glass, both of whom, alongside Kate Bush, auditioned for the role in which Hazel O’Connor succeeded in landing. Since then Toyah’s and Hazel’s careers have ran somewhat parallel without actually

coinciding, until now. Speaking of the pair finally hitting the road together Hazel giggled: “Toyah and I, we just work together, although it’s taken us forty years to do this. “We finally get the opportunity to do it and it’s great; I always love watching her perform, she’s certainly the roadmap of my life and her music has always been a part of it. “We know it’ll work as we’ve already rehearsed it as well so we’ll see what happens on the night but it’ll be a laugh and it’ll be four sisters together instead of the three I am now (with Sarah

and Claire).” Toyah meanwhile is rather eager to learn from Hazel and let their music flow as one, together. “I’m wildly excited for this,” Toyah enthused. “I’m going to go out there and learn so much from her, Hazel’s timing and phasing is phenomenal, she can pull me into her rhythm. “We’ll be doing some of our own repertoires, some original arrangements, and some new material. “Expect it to be a very upbeat show, very musical and nostalgic, and above all, great to watch.”

Now, with some sixty plus studio, live and collaboration albums between the pair, approximately thirty or so each but none together (not yet anyway), it’s been an incredible journey for each and one which now, forty years after arriving on the music scene, they get the chance to collaborate on stage. Electric Ladies of the 80s starring Toyah and Hazel O’Connor appears at Sage Gateshead on April 29, CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS and at The Princess Alexandra Auditorium, Yarm on May 1, CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

Synth sci-fi Sapien Trace

oozing

through

In supporting the Musicians Against Homelessness cause, Newcastle trio, Sapien Trace, and electro synth-rock band, are continuing their upward surge in sound, beginning with the release later this month of their new single, More Than I Can Give. Fronted by Mark Dickinson the trio also features that of Alex Brand (guitar, bass) and Dan Baldwin (drums) they came about somewhat accidentally between late 2016 and early 2017, performing a couple of gigs a month ever since, that’s alongside Mark and his solo sessions, just for added awesomeness. “Yeah, myself and Alex met at a Halloween party a few years back,” explained Mark. “Then, in the February the following year, Dan joined in the fun and we’ve been performing a couple of gigs a month ever since. “At the beginning we were more a heavier metal sound though due to the musical influences on Alex. We were more into your likes of Korn etc so that was pretty much at the forefront of what we did. “Fortunately we’ve calmed the sound down a bit since then.” Quietly moving along behindthe-scenes over the past three years, releases gaining mixed reviews they have seen The Crack labelling them as being ’Sci-fi rock at its finest,’ whilst NE Volume went a little crazy when

inviting music lovers to ‘Imagine Rammstein and The Prodigy meet at a party in space with Pendulum driving,’ “The last gig we performed (with Moodbay in mid-January) was one of the best we’ve done,” Mark continued. “It was a great experience with some new people. I will admit though, it has been a little difficult at times, doing all this, although we’ve also managed to ascertain some pretty decent reviews.” Now, with their impending new single, More Than I Can Give, set for mid-February release, the lads jumped in and recorded their new offering at Blast Studios, Newcastle, ready for the launch party at Beyond Vinyl in town. “The track itself is about your unrequited love,” added Mark. “It kind of shows how you rebuff that in a nicer way and is an idea that evolved from a few people that I know have experienced these types of situation and Twitter n over the years. “Going into Blast Studios, it was such an easy day as well. One which went quite quickly. “We all had a good laugh and had some rather bizarre conversations, something which we all wanted – we even found out that our drummer, Dan, is something of a pool shark! “We’ve gone through a lot though, but that’s good and we’re already working on some new material.” Along with the single launch party on February 21, Sapien

Trace enter the Battle of the Bands competition over Ashington way on March 5, then a week later head to The Globe in Newcastle to perform the Musicians Against Homelessness gig alongside AXLS, The Floral Detectives, and Holy Braille – an eclectic mix of musicianship. Expected to be “a mashup of deep house and synthwave pop” Sapien Trace have their single launch party at Beyond Vinyl, Westgate Road, Newcastle, on February 21, check the event page via https://www.facebook.com/ events/1886579848152288/ More Than I Can Give will be available on all platforms and you can keep up-to-date with all their usual happenings via their website https://www. sapientrace.com/ and social media platforms Facebook htt p s : / / w w w.fa c e b o o k . co m / sapientracers/ and Twitter https://twitter.com/SapienTrace (Image credits to Kai Eden, David Wala, and Paul Murray)

Synth sci-fi oozing through Sapien Trace In supporting the Musicians Against Homelessness cause, Newcastle trio, Sapien Trace, and electro synth-rock band, are continuing their upward surge in sound, beginning with the release later this month of their new sin-

gle, More Than I Can Give. Fronted by Mark Dickinson the trio also features that of Alex Brand (guitar, bass) and Dan Baldwin (drums) they came about somewhat accidentally between late 2016 and early 2017, performing a couple of gigs a month ever since, that’s alongside Mark and his solo sessions, just for added

awesomeness. “Yeah, myself and Alex met at a Halloween party a few years back,” explained Mark. “Then, in the February the following year, Dan joined in the fun and we’ve been performing a couple of gigs a month ever since. “At the beginning we were more a heavier metal sound though due to the musical influences on Alex. We were more into your likes of Korn etc so that was pretty much at the forefront of what we did. “Fortunately we’ve calmed the sound down a bit since then.” Quietly moving along behind-thescenes over the past three years, releases gaining mixed reviews they have seen The Crack labelling them as being ’Sci-fi rock at its finest,’ whilst NE Volume went a little crazy when inviting music lovers to ‘Imagine Rammstein and The Prodigy meet at a party in space with Pendulum driving,’ “The last gig we performed (with

Moodbay in mid-January) was one of the best we’ve done,” Mark continued. “It was a great experience with some new people. I will admit though, it has been a little difficult at times, doing all this, although we’ve also managed to ascertain some pretty decent reviews.” Now, with their impending new single, More Than I Can Give, set for mid-February release, the lads jumped in and recorded their new offering at Blast Studios, Newcastle, ready for the launch party at Beyond Vinyl in town. “The track itself is about your unrequited love,” added Mark. “It kind of shows how you rebuff that in a nicer way and is an idea that evolved from a few people that I know have experienced these types of situation and Twitter n over the years. “Going into Blast Studios, it was such an easy day as well. One which went quite quickly. “We all had a good laugh and had

some rather bizarre conversations, something which we all wanted – we even found out that our drummer, Dan, is something of a pool shark! “We’ve gone through a lot though, but that’s good and we’re already working on some new material.” Along with the single launch party on February 21, Sapien Trace enter the Battle of the Bands competition over Ashington way on March 5, then a week later head to The Globe in Newcastle to perform the Musicians Against Homelessness gig alongside AXLS, The Floral Detectives, and Holy Braille – an eclectic mix of musicianship. Expected to be “a mashup of deep house and synthwave pop” Sapien Trace have their single launch party at Beyond Vinyl, Westgate Road, Newcastle, on February 21, check the event page via https://www.facebook.com/

events/1886579848152288/ More Than I Can Give will be available on all platforms and you can keep up-to-date with all their usual happenings via their website www.sapientrace.com/ and social media platforms Facebook.com/ sapientracers/ and twitter.com/ SapienTrace (Image credits to Kai Eden, David Wala, and Paul Murray) (Promo images courtesy of Chris Booth Photos; Illustrations by Hayley Smith)

NERG is the biggest retro gaming event in the North East, held at Gateshead Stadium over the course of 2 days, this event is as big as it gets for retro gamers or just the big kids re-living their youth playing the games they used to play, after all, they don’t make them like they used to. 2017 will be the fifth year of NERG and it will be a big one. With 100 video arcade machines, 35 pinball machines and 60 consoles and computers this really is an event you do not want to miss!. The event is held over the weekend of 1st & 2nd of July. Entrance is £15 per day or £25 for the full weekend. Children aged 5-13 years can also get in for only £10 on the Sunday. All the machines are set to free play so once you pay the admission fee, it’s free gaming all day., so no need for those pockets full of change. CLICK HERE TO TICKETS ONLINE.

PURCHASE

or you can pay on the day if the event hasn’t sold out. More details can be found at w w w.northeastretrogaming. com Machines are announced on a regular basis through the social feeds so make sure you keep checking to see what games will

be there, though with so many we are sure your favourites will be there. CLICK HERE FOR FACEBOOK For Twitter - @NERGOfficial

PURCHASE

be there, though with so many we are sure your favourites will be there. CLICK HERE FOR FACEBOOK For Twitter - @NERGOfficial

Hi Kevin, welcome to NE, can you introduce yourself to our readers? HI, my name is Kevin Ho, I’m 35 years old and I was originally born in Sunderland, but lived most of my life in South Shields We have been lucky enough to know you from back in the day when you used to be a regular around South Shields snapping the nightlife, was that how you got started as a photographer? Well it all started when I became a bartender in one of the locations bars called Kirkpatrick, like most bartenders I would usually work the weekend evening shifts,

instead of bartending I would glass collect because I was one of the quickest staff to cover the flow by themselves collecting glasses in. As social media platforms started to become more popular (i.e Facebook), the management wanted me to start taking photos of the punters on Friday and Saturday. Since I was already moving around people it was pretty straightforward and they didn’t need to hire any other staff to do it. So I brought in a small compact camera and after about six months I decided to invest in a DSLR camera and it sorta got me hooked.

What would you say was the good and bad about shooting people on nights out in various bars and clubs? The main positive aspect has been two things really. The first being that it has actually helped me with my confidence with talking to new people. Even first starting as a bartender I struggled to talk to new people, so I used the camera as a way to cross the confidence barrier, The second positive thing is that I’ve met so many new friends though the job, that they’ve even been a positive impact leading up to now. Either they’ve been really supportive and or help got my

name around to do other jobs. If I have to be honest about the biggest downside of nightlife photography it’s probably the abuse I get once in a blue moon. Even if people can deny or not, sometimes people can get drunk and that seems to give them the right to

call me out because of the basis on my skin. 98% of the time all I can do it just walk away and ignore them, especially if I’m trying to be respectful of the bar. Thankfully most of the time, the management or security are great, they look after me and they just deal with the situation either asking the person to leave or apologise. The sad thing is most of the time, they don’t apologise. What’s funny is how sometimes I get a message of that person on Facebook the next day. Then they finally apologise, saying that it’s just the drink and they don’t normally feel that ‘way’ towards another person of colour. Personally I think it’s just an excuse to make them feel better so that they get into trouble for their behavior the previous night, But when it comes to replying to that message, all I can say is “Thanks for taking your time to apologise, and I will shake your hand the next time I see you out”. Kind of a

deep cut, but sometimes you just gotta bite your tongue and get on with the job. When it comes to your incredible

photos people will see everything from landscape to commercial, weddings to bands, it is probably easier asking if there is anything you don’t shoot? Erm, I’m not too sure to honest. I just like to dabble in a bit of everything; I guess the next big idea is go aerial i.e. drone photography. But that’s still in the early stages considering the new rules coming and maybe needing a drone license. You are well known for your very creative shooting, always trying new techniques such as your crystal ball images or even the 360 degree images, is there a reason why you are so creative with your photography? I personally get kinda bored with all the standard types of photography; I like to try different things that other photographers don’t usually try. Are these quirky methods your own ideas or are you inspired by other people’s work? I tend to get a bit of inspiration

from a bit of everywhere like YouTube or Pinterest. Obviously when I see something I wanna try, I tend to put my own twist on it and make it my own. Is there a certain style you prefer to shoot whenever you can? I like to try to match to what I’m shooting whenever I can. For example for a wedding I like to keep traditional, while when photographing a nightlife event I like keep upbeat and highly motivated. There are times where I like to switch it up, but I tend to keep it simple shoot things how it should be shot. These days people’s phones can actually be better than lots of professional cameras with so many apps to choose from you are now getting a lot of people claiming to be photographers just because the kit can do the work for them, give us your thoughts on this subject? It’s actually a fantastic time for everyone to get into photography because you always have a camera on you all the time. Obviously

a full camera kit will always do a better job. But sometimes just already having a camera on your phone will just do the job just as well. The main argument I have against phones is that it’s up to a point where the person doesn’t need to do anything at all and all the guess work is done by the camera instead. The missing element that people forget to have is the skill behind the photos. The composition, the settings needed for a look and the overall look the photographer that wants photo to look like. It can also be scary as well considering how far camera phones have come. But in my opinion you can’t replace the person who is taking the photo. Why should someone book you for an event rather than a mate who has the kit? For me, it’s experience. That mate with a kit could be someone who decided to just buy the kit because they can afford it and only use it once every six months. With me I carry over ten years of experience from shooting nightclubs to wed-

dings. Unless you shoot regular, you’re missing out someone who has the skill, the eye for a perfect photo. What kind of work can people book you for? Mainly these days most of my work comprises of weddings. In late 2019 I’ve just managed go over 50 weddings in ten years which is quite an achievement. Every so often these days a nightlife event might crop up like a VIP party or a birthday party. But mostly it’s been weddings so far, How can people book you? They can book me through my Facebook.com/KHOphotography or on my website keljaden.wixsite.com/khophotography Out of all of the varied images you have taken what one is your favourite and why? Great question! It’s kinda hard to pick because I’ve taken so many

images I can’t really choose just one. So to be honest I can’t answer that question. It would take me too long to look back and just choose one.

When you are not taking photos what do you like to do with your free time? In my free time, I try to pick up learn some other skills. For in-

stance, right now I’m learning a little 3D modelling because I’m thinking about getting into 3D printing sometime. Other times I like to do a little reading here and there, especially stories

getting back into model photography. I’m already in talks about doing more nightlife events but that still in the early stages, I’m also hoping to may be start up

vlogging again but 360 style, but that takes a lot of work to manage the footage.

Tell us 3 random facts about yourself? I am Chinese but British born I am a big eater so I like trying out a lot of different kinds of food. I’m originally born a mackem but spent most of my life in South Shields Where can people see your work and follow you? Same as trying to book me mostly of my work gets posted on my FB Fanpage https://keljaden.wixsite.com/khophotography What have you got planned for 2020, what can people expect to see in the future? So far my plans are to try even more stuff with photography. I’m in the middle of talking with a clothing brand to do something with them, while I also may be

We have double the fun now as we have teamed up with Cineworld Boldon and the new Cineworld Dalton Park to give you a quick run down on a few films that are coming soon and really have got us excited. Plus make sure you check out their Facebook page to keep up to date with their daily competitions and updates. Boldon and Dalton Park

My Spy 07 February 2020 He’s a pro. She’s a natural. My Spy follows JJ a hardened CIA operative (Dave Bautista) who has been demoted and finds himself at the mercy of a precocious 9-year-old girl, named Sophie (Chloe Coleman) where he has been sent undercover begrudgingly to surveil her family. When Sophie discovers hidden cameras in her apartment she uses her tech savviness to locate where the surveillance operation is set. In exchange for not blowing JJ’s cover Sophie convinces him to spend time with her and teach her to be a spy. Despite his reluctance JJ finds he is no match for Sophie’s disarming charm and wit. Cast: Dave Bautista, Ken Jeong,

Kristen Schaal, Chloe Coleman, Parisa Fitz-Henley Director: Peter Segal

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE TRAILER AND BUY TICKETS

Bloodshot 26 February 2020 Running time: 100 minutes Based on the bestselling comic book, Vin Diesel stars as Ray Garrison, a soldier recently killed in action and brought back to life as the superhuman Bloodshot by the RST corporation. With an army of nanotechnology in his veins, he’s an unstoppable force – stronger than ever and able to heal instantly. But in controlling his body, the company has sway over his mind and memories, too. Now, Ray doesn’t know what’s real and what’s not – but he’s on a mission to find out. Cast: Vin Diesel CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE TRAILER AND BUY TICKETS

Military Wives 06 March 2020

The inspirational story of friendship, love, and support on the home front. A group of women come together as their partners serve in Afghanistan. Together they form the very first military wives choir, helping each other through some of lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most difficult moments and also becoming a media sensation and global movement in the process. Peter Cattaneo (The Full Monty) directs Oscar Nominee and BAFTA Winner Kristin Scott Thomas (Darkest Hour) and BAFTA Nominee Sharon Horgan (Catastrophe) in this feel good crowdpleaser.

Cast: Kristin Scott Thomas, Sharon Horgan, Greg Wise, Jason Flemyng with Emma Lowndes, Gaby French, Lara Rossi, Amy James-Kelly and

India Ria Amarteifio Director: Peter Cattaneo CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE TRAILER AND BUY TICKETS

Mulan 27 March 2020 Acclaimed filmmaker Niki Caro brings the epic tale of China’s legendary warrior to life in Disney’s ‘Mulan’. A fearless young woman risks everything out of love for her family and her

country to become one of the greatest warriors China has ever known. When the Emperor of China issues a decree that one man per family must serve in the Imperial Army to defend the country from Northern invaders, Hua Mulan, the eldest daughter of an

honoured warrior, steps in to take the place of her ailing father. Masquerading as a man, Hua Jun, she is tested every step of the way and must harness her innerstrength and embrace her true potential. It is an epic journey that will transform her into an honoured warrior and earn her the respect of a grateful nation...and a proud father. ‘Mulan’ features a celebrated international cast that includes: Yifei Liu as Mulan; Donnie Yen as Commander Tung; Jason Scott Lee as Bori Khan; Yoson An as Cheng Honghui; with Gong Li as Xianniang and Jet Li as the Emperor. The film is directed by Niki Caro from a screenplay by Rick Jaffa & Amanda Silver and Elizabeth Martin & Lauren Hynek based on the narrative poem ‘The Ballad of Mulan.’ Cast: Yifei Liu, Donnie Yen, Jason Scott Lee, Yoson An, Gong Li, Jet Li Director: Niki Caro CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE TRAILER AND BUY TICKETS

No Time To Die 03 April 2020 In No Time To Die, Bond has left active service and is enjoying a tranquil life in Jamaica. His peace is short-

lived when his old friend Felix Leiter from the CIA turns up asking for help. The mission to rescue a kidnapped scientist turns out to be far more treacherous than expected, leading Bond

onto the trail of a mysterious villain armed with dangerous new technology. CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE TRAILER AND BUY TICKETS

Unlimited Card Love Cinema. Join the club - £17.90 a month. You will receive... Preferential Discounts Unlimited members get 10% off all food and drink bought in-cinema at any time of day, every day!* Plus, you’ll also receive discounts for all nonfilm screenings such as Live Opera in HD, Live National Theatre, Live sport in 3D and live gigs etc. (All discounts subject to terms) Get access to Exclusive advance screenings

As an Unlimited member, you can be among the first to see great movies at our special screenings. Just keep an eye on our Unlimited newsletter for your invitation. Discounted Meals & Shopping Unlimited members benefit from exclusive deals set up by their local cinema*. These offers vary from cinema to cinema, but are a great way to save pennies. (All deals are subject to terms) *Until further notice

Watch as many films as you like Are you mad about movies? Feed your fascination by watching as many films as you like at Cineworld every month from just £17.90. There’s literally no limit to the number of times you can visit! Apply for your card now at www.unlimitedcineworld. com/uk/pages/apply. aspx?step=1 using promo code RAF-63KG-29XM-00SB31WU.

Coinciding with International Women’s Day on March 8 the region’s Lucinda Grange (formerly of Hartlepool, now New York City) saw some of her finest work, from the project ‘Backwards and in High Heels,’ included in the Donna Karan – Urban Zen exhibition in Greenwich Village, Manhattan. Beginning on March 8 and running through until April 7, Ms. Grange’s most prized project, entitled as ‘Dancing with the Stars’ included in the exhibition ran by the ArtLead Her platform, a vision founded by Mashinda Tirfere. Supporting and promoting only female artists, ArtLead Her aims to help level the field in the art world, where the gender bias is very strong and, being part of what is Women’s History Month will help envelope that consensus. Speaking of her prized project, ‘Backwards and in High Heels,’ Lucinda said: “It is a quote in reference to Ginger Rodgers. “Fred Astaire, her male dance partner, would get more fame, fortune and attention than she did, yet she did everything he did, backwards and in high heels. “This project started with two selfportraits on the Chrysler Building (Midtown Manhattan, New York) and gradually grew as I photographed women I know and admire in places you wouldn’t expect

to see anyone - let alone a woman, looking strong and extravagant in a dress! “The aim of this project was to question stereotypes women are often subjected to, and instead highlight the strength and power

of these women.” To be included within the exhibition, for Lucinda, is something she is excited about and follows immediately after her solo exhibition, ‘City Cross-Section’ which was held at the Lyle O. Reitzel Contemporary Art Gallery and finished late-February. In the new exhibition at the Urban Zen Lucinda exhibited an image, ‘King Woman,’ which depicts Ingrid Silva, lead dancer for the Dance Theatre of Harlem. “In this picture, Ingrid is on point on the ladder of a water tower on a NYC rooftop. “Ingrid grew up in Brazil, a very humble beginning, and now she’s the dance company’s top dancer, traveling the world, following her

passion. “She is now performing to crowds of thousands despite the many obstacles that have been in her way. “Not only is she Brazilian, she is also black and petite, very far from those who one might expect to see as the lead dancer. “Her sheer willpower, dedication and determination got her all the way from living in Brazil, to being one of the top dancers in this city. “My aim was to capture the feeling of this inspiring person and her story in this one single image.” Women’s History Month is an annual declared month that highlights the contributions of women to events in history and contemporary society. It is celebrated during March in the U.S. the U.K. and Australia, coinciding with International Women’s Day on March 8.

The Atmospherica Composer Concert Series presents

THE GREAT NORTHERN PIANO SESSION IV - PIANO DAY 2020 CELEBRATION

Key figures go the distance to help celebrate the piano in Gosforth. The piano in Gosforth Civic Theatre, like most of the pianos around the world, has 88 keys. Piano Day is an annual worldwide event which takes place on the 88th day of the year and celebrates this ever-popular musical instrument. The 88th day of 2020 falls on Saturday 28th March. In response, local pianist and award-winning composer Steve Luck is bringing the next edition of his Great

Northern Piano Sessions back to the Gosforth Civic Theatre, featuring a top-quality line up drawn from the growing contemporary classical scene. Travelling from Vancouver to play is pianist and composer Nathan Shubert and there will also be a set from Worcester based pianist Ben Crosland as well as one from concert organiser Steve Luck. The concert will begin at 7.30pm. The event is part of the Atmospherica composer concert series

and, is a must for lovers of accessible, thoughtful and captivating piano music and is billed as â&#x20AC;&#x153;an unmissable evening of lovingly crafted, heartfelt and beautiful original music.â&#x20AC;? Contemporary classical music is on the rise. Big name European composers like Ludovico Einaudi, Nihls Frahm, OlafurArnalds and Max Richter have done much to popularise the genre which has its roots in classical music but is also heavily influenced by pop,

folk, world, film and electronic music. You can expect accessible ambient piano music often with a meditative, soothing, serene feel to it which is both captivating and powerfully cinematic. The Atmospherica Series seeks to provide more opportunities for special live performances of new music in this genre and to develop the audience for this music here in the north of England. Organiser Steve Luck said of the event “I am especially delighted to welcome both Nathan and Ben here to Newcastle and I’m very much looking forward to hearing them play. I have admired their recordings for a long time and I’m sure that the north east audience are going to love the music that they play especially in such a beautifully intimate venue as Gosforth Civic Theatre. The last few piano events in there have been wonderfully received. It’s fantastic to be part of world piano day too – it’s an inspirational initiative that was set up a few years ago by the German composer Nils Frahm and it seems to be getting bigger and bigger each year.” All three piano day featured composers make music which is rooted in a sense of place. Ben Crosland credits the beautiful countryside surrounding his

hometown of Worcester as the primary inspiration behind his debut album “Songs from Rainbow Hill”. Strong melodic lines and a convincing sense of narrative define this unique, yet highly approachable voice for solo piano. Drawing on influences from Nils Frahm and Erik Satie, as well as field recordings from his travels across North America and Europe, Vancouver-based pianist/composer Nathan Shubert’s engaged, empathic take on contemporary classical blends muted physicality with an exceptional ear for beauty. Founder of the Atmospherica series Steve Luck completes the line

up and will perform a selection of pieces which are influenced by his Tyneside and Northumbrian roots. SATURDAY 28TH MARCH 2020 7.30PM Tickets priced at £12 (concessions available) on sale now, CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS For more information visit www. atmospherica.co.uk New single ‘ Steel Bridge ‘ out now. Listen on your favourite music service here smarturl.it/ggocvf www.steveluck.com steveluck.bandcamp.com/ facebook.com/steveluckmusic/ twitter.com/steveluck soundcloud.com/steveluck

EVER EVER WANTED WANTED TO TO LEARN LEARN TO TO PLAY PLAY THE THE DRUMS? DRUMS?

www.rossgardnerdrums.com

Dickinson dreams may be in a Diamond Skin, but they aren’t Off Script There’s a busy 2020 in store for Newcastle’s Sam Dickinson. The Pride Radio DJ, who has been lauded by the like of BBC Radio 2’s Graham Norton among others, began 2020 with the recent release of his new single, Diamond Skin. In being the first track of what will be a late autumn album release, that’s when ‘Off Script’ will come into being, some seven plus years after his last and from which he released four singles. However,

since that hit the airwaves, life has been pretty much a rollercoaster. Usually a more 21st Century soul kind of guy, Sam’s new and upcoming offerings are more akin to your nineties pop, a style which most certainly suits the demeanour and character which Sam portrays. “My last album was in 2013 and it was getting some really good coverage, began Sam. “However, with one thing leading to another, I ended up taking over 18 months out. “Then, when I wrote the track, Therapy, everything started to gel

back into place. “It was from that moment on really but my new album, it has been some three-and-a-half years in the making. “Pop is the type of music in which I’ve grown up with but I always wanted to do soul music as well; this though, this is my sound and when I started writing about differing topics, I started to feel more comfortable. In addition to his new music Sam will also be launching a new show entitled ‘Back to the 90s’ at the Pride Media Centre, Gateshead, on April 4, and will open for Al-

exandra Burke when she heads to Yarm’s Princess Alexandra Auditorium in June. “The show in Gateshead will be the first live for my new music and then I’ll be supporting Alexandra Burke, something which I’m really looking forward to. “I’ll be performing alongside someone who is a household name so, having released two tracks over the past eighteen months, I’m ready to just go for it, do it. “I’m really excited and feel I’ve a brilliant product so my focus now is solely on my music which I love.” Sam’s previous release, All We Are, was played on BBC Radio 2 by the likes of Alan Carr, Paul O’Grady and Graham Norton, the latter saying that: “He just keeps getting better and better.” On the back of that airplay, Spotify picked it up, and added it to their editorial playlists, resulting in it being streamed over a quarter-of-a-million times across all platforms and his new release is expected to have similar impact and leave the listeners wanting more, Sam has also teased that there will be more tracks released over the coming months.

You can download Diamond Skin from all usual outlets including iTunes, Apple Music & Spotify. Keep up-to-date with all things Sam Dickinson via his website samdickinsononline.com/ and social media platforms facebook. com/SamDickinsonOnline/ and twitter.com/SamDickinson m

Music lovers can purchase tickets for ‘Off Script: Back to the 90s,’ at the Pride Media Centre, Stonehills, Gateshead on April 4 from HERE and An Evening with Alexandra Burke, Sam Dickinson and Beth Macari at the Princess Alexandra Auditorium, Yarm on June 7 via www.facebook.com/ events/585617338676543/

Diamond Skin, was released on January 31 and is the first single from the upcoming album, Off Script, expected October 2020.

COMING TO

Horrible Histories: The Worst of Barmy Britain 15th-16th April 2020 Time: 14.30, 18.00, 11.30, 14.30 We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead! So it’s time to prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories live on stage with the West End show that’s never toured before! Will you roar with laughter with Richard the Lionheart? Has Wil-

liam Wallace met his match? Can King Charles keep his head? Will you see eye to eye with Admiral Nelson? Does the Duke of Wellington get the boot? Find out what a baby farmer did and meet the Lady of the Lamp! Get ready for your great escape from the First World War!

covered in poo! The Guardian

It’s history with the nasty bits left in!

Field Music Thursday 27th February 2020 7.30pm

Hilariously vulgar, brilliantly grisly – it has the young audience in stitches! CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS

The Horrible Histories stage shows Field Music take over Whitley Bay have become a bit of a British institution. Sparky, cheeky and on Thursday Feb 27th 2020 Will they be playing new music? Quite possibly. Will they be playing old classics? Most definitely! Mercury nominated, Prince approved, always innovative and always surprising, they remain a band to be treasured. CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS

Academy in Northumberland will head out on a four-week expedition to one of the poorest nations in the world, Cambodia. There they will be involved in projects to build kitchens, toilets and schools, install water systems and help with reforestation and community education projects. This work will support less fortunate communities by providing essentials that we take for granted.

The Christians: Live in Concert Friday 6th March 2020 7.30pm Forgotten Town, Ideal World, Born Again, Harvest for the World, Whats in a Word, Hooverville, Words, Father, The Bottle and many more The Christians enjoyed huge acclaim in the late 80s and early 90s both in the UK and Europe and often confused people with their band name (in fact just the brothers surname with absolutely no religious connotation!) Still headed by enigmatic lead singer Garry Christian (who very much deserves the Daily Mirror’s description of him as having ‘one of the finest voices in pop) who has only gained in vocal stature (and wit) over the years! the band are enjoying a revival currently touring successfully in the UK and Europe. Currently embarking on a huge UK Tour playing their well known back catalogue and one or two favourites selected from newer albums.

TICKETS Keith Partridge: The Adventure Game Friday 28th February 7.30pm Hosted by Chris Jackson. Join Keith Partridge, filmmaker and EMMY award winning cinematographer, for a “behind the scenes” presentation with stories of filming in some of the most challenging places on earth. “It’s his consummate, calm ability in hairy situations that really impresses.” Steve Backshall - TV Presenter and Naturalist A fundraising event presented by St Benet Biscop Catholic Academy to provide a life-changing experience for students and support life-changing research. In July 2020 a group of students from St. Benet Biscop Catholic

Living in or close to local communities will enable our students to really appreciate how tough daily life can be, but at the same time, how resilient and strong the human spirit is in order to overcome the adversities that life throws at us. We know that they will learn many lessons from their expedition and will carry them in their hearts to pull out, dust down and use whenever they may need them in the future. All proceeds from the sale of tickets will go towards supporting the students on their Cambodian Expedition and to Macmillan Cancer Support and Cancer Research UK, two charities very close to our hearts. Book now to help a great cause and hear exciting tales of adventure! CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS

Catch them on tour and find out why Chris Evans said ‘it was the best gig I’ve ever been to’ www.thechristianslive.com CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR

With new items from your favourite brands such as Lacoste, Hugo Boss, Emporio Armani, adidsd Oroginals and more arriving daily make sure you keep checking the website CLICK HERE FOR THE LATEST PRODUCTS

www.northernthreads.co.uk

NEW FRED PERRY

NEW HUGO BOSS

NEW ADIDAS ORIGINALS

YOU CAN FIND US AT

CLICK HERE TO BUY

14 OCEAN ROAD, SOUTH SHIELDS NE33 2HZ

Family friendly event for retro lovers of all ages. Buy a ticket and play some of the best console, arcade and pinball machines for FREE! Also features bar area, pizza van and merchandise stalls as well as some amazing competitions on the day! Tickets available via Eventbrite.

This event always sells out so be quick! Get your tickets from https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ryton-retro-5-wrestlefest-tickets

COMING TO

Dido Monday 8 June, 7.30pm Dido is back following the release of her 2019 album, Still On My Mind.

Dido, the chilled-out singersongwriter, notched up more than 40 million album sales across her career, making two of the bestselling albums in British chart history. No Angel still remains the top-selling debut by a British female artist worldwide.

Dido’s career started when she was a backing singer with her brother Rollo’s band, Faithless. She toured in support of their 1996 debut album all the way through to the release of her own debut in 1998. No Angel’s success was slow burning, growing and growing to eventually become the bestselling album of 2001.

touching song, and demand for the Dido original quickly escalated. Thank You became a top five smash in early 2001. Still On My Mind is only Dido’s fifth album in 20 years, and it is right up there with her best work. She was the girl who got away, but after five years of silence, Dido is back.

Her biggest break arrived in 2000, Book now:https://sagegateshead. when rap superstar Eminem com/whats-on/dido/ sampled one of her tracks, Thank You, for the chorus of his hit single Stan. The result was a surprisingly

Viva La Divas Wednesday 24 June, 7.30pm Get ready to witness three of Strictly Come Dancing’s most loved female dancers together on one stage in Viva La Divas! Janette Manrara, Nadiya Bychkova and Katya Jones have come together to bring you a brand-new song and dance spectacular that celebrates what it is to be a diva. Collaborating with the original producers of the hugely successful show, Viva La Diva - first performed in 2007, starring Darcey Bussell and Katherine Jenkins - this exhilarating and glamorous production will pay tribute to divas from the Golden Age of Hollywood, Broadway and West End musical theatre, chart topping modern pop divas and female icons who have had an impact on the stars’ careers and lives. Including performances celebrating the greatest divas of all time from Marilyn Monroe, Judy Garland, Celine Dion, Jennifer Lopez, Madonna, Beyoncé and many more. Janette, Nadiya and Katya, alongside a cast of amazing dancers and incredible singers, celebrate their friendship and pay homages to the greatest divas in this show

stopping, all singing, all dancing musical extravaganza. Book now: https://sagegateshead. com/whats-on/viva-la-divas/ Blue Öyster Cult Friday 9 October, 7.30pm For more than four decades, Blue Öyster Cult has been thrilling fans of intelligent hard rock worldwide with powerful albums loaded with classic songs. The band occupies a unique place in rock history because it’s one of very few hard rock/heavy metal bands to earn both genuine mainstream critical acclaim as well as commercial

success. Upon the release of Blue Öyster Cult’s self-titled debut album in 1972, the band was praised for its catchy-yet-heavy music and lyrics that could be provocative, terrifying, funny or ambiguous, often all in the same song. The band’s hits include three stone-cold classic songs: (Don’t Fear) The Reaper from 1976’s Agents of Fortune, Godzilla from 1977’s Spectres and Burnin’ for You from 1981’s Fire of Unknown Origin. Other notable songs include Cities on Flame with Rock and Roll, Then Came the Last Days of May, I Love the Night, In Thee, Veteran of the Psychic Wars, Dominance and Submission, Astronomy, Black Blade and Shooting Shark. Blue Öyster Cult has always maintained a relentless touring schedule that brings new songs and classics to original and new fans alike Book now: https://sagegateshead. com/whats-on/blue-oyster-cult/

ALL ROUND TO THE HAIRY BIKERS’ FOR A NIGHT OF COOKING CONVERSATION WITH SI KING AND DAVE MYERS TICKETS ONSALE 10AM FRIDAY 28 SEPTEMBER 2018 National Treasures Si King and Dave Myers, aka The Hairy Bikers have announced a huge nationwide tour. With their irresistible enthusiasm, An Evening With The Hairy Bikers will be an epic night of cooking and conversation. Big hearted, down-to-earth cooks with a love of good food, Si and Dave have been cooking

together for more than twenty years. They have created haute cuisine dishes with Michelinstarred chefs and travelled the world in the pursuit of great food. They’ve also explored the length and breadth of the British Isles to discover brand new recipes and create their own fresh takes on cooking classics. The stars of several hit television shows, they are the UK’s most popular cookery duo with series including The Hairy Bikers’ Mediterranean Adventure, The Hairy Bikers’ Cook Book; Best of British; The Hairy Bikers’ Mississippi Adventure; Everyday Gourmets; The Hairy Bikers’ Food Tour of and two major

prime time series of Mums Know Best all drawing millions of audiences. No strangers to the live arena, The Hairy Bikers performed their sell-out Big Night Out show in theatres across the UK in 2010 and completed another ambitious nationwide theatre tour in April 2013. Tickets for The Hairy Bikers are on sale Fri 28 Sep from 10am and can be purchased online at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 08448 11 21 21 (Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge).

ROMESH RANGANATHAN COMES TO THE CITY HALL FRIDAY 8 NOVEMBER 2019 WITH A BRAND NEW SHOW TICKETS ON SALE 10AM FRIDAY 28 SEPTEMBER 2018 Romesh Ranganathan is back with a brand-new show, The Cynic’s Mixtape, and it’s his most brutally honest show yet. Fresh from The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan, A League Of Their Own and Judge Romesh, he’s putting showbiz aside to deliver a carefully-curated

selection of all the things he has found unacceptable since his last tour, including why trying to save the environment is a scam, why none of us are truly free, and his suspicion that his wife is using gluten intolerance to avoid sleeping with him. Romesh’s cynicism has become his trademark, but since being nominated for Best Newcomer at the 2013 Edinburgh Comedy Awards this deadpan humour has become one of Britain’s most respected and popular comics. Now, though, it’s time for the

Asian Provocateur to return to his stand-up roots for a while – there’s things he needs to point out, discuss and have a good moan about. Care to join him? Show drops 2019, don’t miss it. Tickets for Romesh Ranganathan are on sale Fri 28 Sep from 10am and are £26.50. Tickets can be purchased online at www. theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 08448 11 21 21 (Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge)

Krakow in Poland is such a stunning place with so much to do, no wonder it is fast becoming the no1 choice holiday destination. The place is perfect for everything from short weekends away for stag & Hen doâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Birthdays or just a nice relaxing city break up to a full on jam packed week or two away from it all. You can spend your time in the fantastic bars and restaurants or if you are feeling more adventurous take on one of the many activities and day trips the country offers, everything from

the obvious trips like the Wieliczka Salt Mine or the historical Auschwitz and Auschwitz-Birkenau, or do something unusual like one of the Extreme Shooting packages or a trip Zakopane for the Hot Springs or even a ski trip.

a different company, but whilst in Krakow we came across Thousand Miles who we booked our trip to Wieliczka Salt Mine and they were incredible, they really went above and beyond with their customer service and the whole experience.

When it comes to booking any of these types of trips there are plenty of companies offering their services but from experience I would highly recommend you going through Thousand Miles. We had our first trip booked through

From picking us up with snacks and drinks already on our seat waiting for us in the van to talking to us about Poland and other places to see there. Alan, our driver couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have been more friendly and helpful, even going

so far as to recommending a great local restaurant and texting us the address and the best food to get for after our trip to the Salt Mines. They even sorted our transport to the airport on our last day. So if you are thinking of visiting Krakow, make sure you check out Thousand Miles before you book anything and have a chat with them to look at your options when there, I really wish I had booked my other trips through them first and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s safe to say they will be

my first option for future visits. You can find them on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ ThousandMilesPL/ or on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ thousandmiles.pl/ and also their website https://thousandmiles. pl/ to see all of the various tours and trips they offer. They are very friendly and helpful so if you have

any questions just drop them a message.