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The Phoenix Newspaper - February 2019 - Page 17
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FEBRUARY 2019
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GEMMA CollINs FROM ESSEX TO THE ICE, A NEW SIDE OF THE TOWIE QUEEN
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Page 18 - The Phoenix Newspaper - February 2019
ENTERTAINMENT
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THE HOTTEST ENTERTAINMENT SUPPLEMENT
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Elegant Entertainment hitting all the right notes
L l Elegant Entertainment hitting all the right notes
aunching with just two performers in 2012, Elegant Entertainment, luxury entertainment specialists, is going from strength to strength. With residencies in some of the region’s best-loved hotels, bars and restaurants, including Malmaison, Radisson, Clayton Hotel and Marco Pierre White, the Birmingham-based group of musicians is proving it’s more than just a one-hit wonder for the city. As a pianist and a singer, husband-and-wife duo Benjamin and Chloe-Jean Grey dreamed of
creating a business out of their passions. Envisaging a musical collective where each member felt part of a family, they wanted to give talented musicians a chance to grow their talents, while earning money in a notoriously hard-tobreak industry. Not only did they want to showcase these talents to the masses, but they wanted to demonstrate the wealth of talent both from and to Birmingham, where the team currently reside. From this, Elegant Entertainment was born; since then, it has grown over the last six years to have
performed close to 5000 sets. What’s more, the group has started to offer services beyond performing, planning parties, weddings and other memorable occasions as part of its repertoire. Even with its rapid rise to the top, Benjamin Grey, Co-Founder and pianist at Elegant Entertainment, is focussed on ensuring that the community-feel remains front and centre. He commented: “We are a huge musical family, and, in that respect, we all sing from the same song sheet – excuse the pun! Every member of Elegant Entertainment is integral to maintaining this ethos and we always recruit with this in mind. “As a result, not only do we all enjoy coming to work each day, but we’ve attracted and retained the most talented musicians in the city!” Elegant Entertainment shows no sign of stopping and has set its sights firmly on the future… and going international! Ben and Chloe Grey have had a property in Italy for ten years, and since this time have been approached
a number of times to perform at weddings and parties. The perfect opportunity to showcase their talents to a ‘’Britalian’’ audience, which is now becoming increasingly popular amongst British couples, the husband-andwife duo are hoping this will take Elegant Entertainment to a whole new level. Chloe-Jean Grey, Co-Founder and performer at Elegant Entertainment, concluded: “Although we’re thrilled to be taking Elegant Entertainment international this year, we’re still sticking to our roots here in the UK. We have recently launched ‘Keep Off The Brass,’ which is a brass trio playing an exciting live fusion of funk, soul, RnB and house. It’s the perfect combination of raw brass sound and high energy beats, and they’ve already taken up residency at places like Be At One and Marco Pierre White’s. Having been hugely successful over the Christmas period, we’re excited to be continuing touring the trio at different bars around the city and the UK!”
Sparrow’s ‘Sa Sa Yea’ gets iDRUM update In an era where the Calypso genre is losing some of its biggest musical icons, a team of musical professionals and enthusiasts hailing from Dominica, St. Vincent, St. Lucia, Trinidad, Barbados and North-America is paying homage to the legendary singer, The Mighty Sparrow, with an updated 2019 version of the Calypsonian’s 1969 hit ‘Sa Sa Yea’ just in time for the 2019 Carnival season. The aptly titled ‘iDRUM Sa Sa Yea (2019 Version)’ was conceptualised by Dominicanborn, Toronto-based international artist Davidson Elie, known by the industry names dCONCEPT and iDRUM (an art performance concept) - blending the talents of drummers, DJs, instrumentalists, dancers and vocalists and fuses live and recorded original House music with Afro Caribbean and World elements. This 2019 version connects the elements of pre 1980’s Calypso, modern Soca and original House Music, with live vocals, authentic Creole language components,
Afro-Caribbean percussion, saxophone, steel pan. For this track, Davidson partnered with famed House DJ/ Producer Gene King of Shines Recordings. Gene was able to create an interesting palate of musical flavours. Alongside Davidson & Gene, a team of diligent creatives came together and pooled individual skills and resources to deliver this contemporary reboot and tribute to the ‘Birdie’ The collective of creatives behind ‘iDRUM Sa Sa Yea’ include: Davidson Elie (Conceptualization, Co-Production, Co-Writer, Percussion), Gene King (Production, Arrangement, Mastering), Susan Grogan (Main Vocals), Damian Sogren (Male Vocals/Co-Writer), Anderson Phillips (Pan), Paul Knight (Saxophone), Tej Hunjan (Studio Recording/Engineering) with Co-Production by Ronny Charlemagne, Royalty De Goddess & Keith Pascall.
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The Phoenix Newspaper - February 2019 - Page 19
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Blue/Orange Peels Back The Layers of Mental Health and Race
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ot long before rehearsals at Birmingham Rep began, actor Ivan Oyik took to Twitter. “You know when you read a script over and over again and always find something new?” he wrote. “Yeah, that feeling.” He was thinking about Blue/Orange, which opens at Birmingham Rep this month and he still has the same feeling. Playing the part of Christopher, a patient due to be released from hospital after an enforced stay in
a psychiatric ward, he continues to be beguiled by the layers of meaning. “As you dissect it and analyse it, there’s always more,” he says. “There are so many themes layered in the play. It reflects modern times even though it was written almost 20 years ago. It still feels like it could have been written yesterday.” Written by Joe Penhall, Blue/Orange premiered at the National Theatre in 2000 before transferring to the West End and picking up a raft of awards. It tells the story of Christopher, who is sectioned to a psychiatric unit where professionals wrangle over his diagnosis and treatment. When Christopher tells the specialists he is the son of the former Ugandan president Idi Amin, he opens a Pandora’s box of racism, misunderstanding, prejudice, professional rivalry and bigotry. The play is a three-hander with Richard Lintern of Silent Witness fame playing the senior consultant Robert and Thomas Coombes as junior
consultant, Bruce, alongside Ivan Oyik. The new production is directed by Birmingham Rep’s associate director, Daniel Bailey. Richard Lintern says both the play and his role are thoughtprovoking. “Whenever I talk to my friends about the play, if you don’t present it in the right way, it sounds like the worst play in the history of the world because it’s about mental health and race,” Richard says. “But it’s actually hysterically funny and it’s a play that has issues in it which will touch virtually everyone in the audience. They will either have these issues themselves or they will have friends who have issues about confidence, about crises in people’s lives or about mental health in one way or another.” And Richard believes audience members will also have strong opinions over the decisions surrounding the future for Christopher. “The two psychiatrists, a younger one and an older one,
have very different views about how the young man should be treated. “And so it ends up with the audience members becoming almost amateur psychiatrists themselves because they will either agree or disagree with the course of treatment which one or other of the psychiatrists is recommending.” The specialists are not just influenced by their age and experience – their views are also coloured by the fact that Christopher is black. “Race massively impacts on those decisions – whether there’s an unconscious bias or a conscious bias,” says Richard. “I’ll leave the people who come and see the show to decide whether or not, certainly my character, has a hidden agenda. Blue/Orange is at Birmingham Rep from February 1-16. Tickets: birmingham-rep.co.uk or call 0121 236 4455
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Exciting Year Ahead Dedicated Seat honour for Royal Town Hall Following a record breaking pantomime season, Sutton Coldfield Town Hall has announced some exciting new shows for 2019 including internet comedy sensations Gary Powndland and Jonathan Pie through to children's TV stars Pip Ahoy!, Rastamouse and Basil Brush. The addition of the new Sir Doug Ellis Bar and a freshly decorated lounge has received very positive feedback over Christmas and the Town Hall - a charity venue run by Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Hall Trust - has experienced a rise in the level of private bookings for parties and weddings. As well as focusing on fundraising in 2019 for essential refurbishments and improvements to the building, the team is increasing the variety of shows on sale this year. Funding from the Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council's Community Grant Programme has enabled the venue to replace and improve essential technical equipment, resulting in a much improved
experience for performers and audiences. On the new shows Development Manager Julie Rennison commented; "As well as some great titles for musicals performed by excellent local musical theatre societies, including ‘The Addams Family,’ ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,’ ‘Evita’ and ‘Top Hat!,’ we're introducing more family and touring shows to bring in people who have perhaps not visited us before. “We want to encourage daytime use of the building and would encourage event planners to come and have a look at the improvements which are being made." Touring music shows include ‘The Upbeat Beatles,’ ‘The Elvis Years,’ direct from the West End show ‘Jailhouse Rock,’ ‘Walk Like a Man’ - the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons and ‘The James Taylor Story,’ with leading Shirley Bassey artist Joanne Copeman appearing in ‘The Girl From Tiger Bay.’
For Panto Favourite, Matt
B
i r m i n g h a m H i p p o d r o m e pantomime favourite, Matt Slack recently celebrated his sixth consecutive season at the venue and to mark the occasion, cast, crew and theatre staff gathered for a surprise ceremony where the star was presented with his dedicated seat - in row L of the stalls - along with a commemorative certificate. The plaque reads; ‘Matt Slack, making Birmingham laugh 6 years and counting - 2018.’ On his seat dedication he said; “It’s a real honour to have been given my own dedicated named seat. Thanks to all at Birmingham Hippodrome and Qdos Pantomimes, plus my fiancé Jess. An extra huge thank you goes to the audiences for their continued support.” Since his first appearance, in Snow White, in 2013, Matt has shared the stage with the likes of Stephanie Beacham, Beverley Knight, Marti Pellow, Julian Clary, John Barrowman and Jane
l Matt Slack celebrating at his newly dedicated seat at Birmingham Hippodrome
McDonald. By the time this year’s production draws to a close, Matt will have clocked up over 430 appearances on the Birmingham
Hippodrome stage; making a total of approximately 1,075 hours of performing. Naming a seat is just one of the ways of supporting Birmingham
Hippodrome and its charitable work. From remembering a loved one to commemorating a special occasion, naming a seat makes a perfect surprise gift.
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The Phoenix Newspaper - February 2019 - Page 21
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ENTERTAINMENT
Strictly’ winner, Joe, the new Priscilla, Queen Of The Desert
Mark Goucher and firsttime producer Jason Donovan have announced that actor and Strictly Come Dancing winner Joe McFadden will star in their brand-new production of the much-loved glittering hit musical Priscilla, Queen of the Desert which will visit Birmingham Hippodrome for the very first time from April 13-18. The tour marks Donovan’s first time as a producer, having performed in the cast of the original West End production and two subsequent UK tours – with the producing team completed by Gavin Kalin and Matthew Gale. He said: “I’m over the moon to be taking on this new and exciting challenge in a musical that I have been a massive fan of for such a
long time. I’m looking forward to working with this wonderful production team, including Jason whose guidance I feel especially lucky to have given his previous experience with the production. I can’t wait to take the Priscilla bus on the road and have a bonzer time making the role my own.” “Joe is great casting for Priscilla,” Goucher said. “He’s a very strong musical theatre performer and will bring great charm and integrity to this new production of a great musical.” Jason Donovan added: “So pleased to announce Joe be starring in our production. He’s a down to earth, talented guy who will bring enormous warmth to the role of Mitzi. I can’t wait to see him in heels doing those dance routines....Awesome!”
Not a final ‘fall’ for The GC
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leading light in the much-loved reality show; ‘The Only Way Is Essex,’ one of its stalwarts, Gemma Collins, caused a sharp intake of breath by millions of the viewing public during yet another dramatic scene in her always ‘mustwatch’ life.
to become a platinum selling solo artist in her own right. Her appearance on Strictly Come Dancing in 2007 led to her winning the series and becoming a judge for three seasons. She has written two very popular children’s books – Lightning Girl and Lightning Girl 2: Superhero Squad about 11-year-old Aurora Beam who finds out she has superhero powers! Charlotte Gater, Head of Curriculum at Explore Learning says: “We are thrilled to have Alesha Dixon as our judge for 2019. “Her ‘Lightning Girl’ series is so popular with our l Alesha Dixon PIC: © John Wright. Pink background illustrations: members at Explore Learning Steve Simpson and we are sure that she Children’s author, TV The competition will be will inspire lots of children presenter and singer open for entry from March across the UK to have a go Alesha Dixon, will be this 11 and Explore Learning will at entering the competition in year’s judge of the Explore be running a number of free the hope that their creativity Learning Writers’ Awards. creative writing workshops will impress Alesha. “We can’t wait to launch The competition, now in its with schools and libraries 11th year encourages children across the UK to inspire the competition and see what incredible stories the children from across the UK to get children to take part. their imaginations going and The closing date of entry is of the UK come up with.” Last year over 38,000 write a 500-word story in the Sunday May 5 and this year’s entered the hope that they will be selected theme will be announced children by Alesha and the team at when the competition opens. competition and previous Explore Learning as their Previous themes have been: prolific judges include David writer of the year. Heroes, The Future and Walliams, Steve Backshall, Cressida Cowell, Lauren The winner will receive a Around The World. trip to Disneyland Paris for The multi-talented Alesha Child and Liz Pichon. The winner was eight their whole family as well as Dixon first found fame as part £500 worth of books for their of Brit-nominated and MOBO year old Mia Falatoori from who impressed school libraries AND a meet Award-winning group Mis- London and greet with global super teeq, which achieved two Walliams with her story ‘The star, Alesha Dixon, who will platinum albums and seven Mum with the Toxic Bum.’ surprise them at their school! Top Ten hits, before going on
Star Alesha to judge Writers Awards
The latest episode follows her dramatic fall during her dance routine on ITV’s ‘Dancing On Ice.’ “I didn’t fall,” said the TOWIE queen. “I passed out. I was just going and then, next thing, on the ground.” The 37-year-old was steadfast when hitting back at trolls' claims
that she had purposefully thrown herself on to the ice on the show. "It definitely wasn’t faked,” she said. "One million per cent I didn’t. If they knew the pain I’ve been in with my knee, they would understand.” ‘The GC’ claimed that she ‘blacked out’ moments before her painful tumble - but vowed
to return to the ice a.s.a.p.- as she duly did. With her always at the centre of some drama on the popular ITV2 show, her ‘ice cold’ fall proved to be just another chapter in the ‘book’ of The GC – make no mistake.
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ENTERTAINMENT
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Awards Season - Overkill, or Underwhelming? T here are so many award shows on that it is hard keeping up with them. From Grammy to Bollywood, Golden Globe to BAFTA, BRITs to OSCAR’s, Black Reel, Tony, Online Film & Television Association, EMMY and even the Raspberries too. There are so many different award shows during this time of the year that it is hard keeping up with all of them. Some people don't know who the award show honors until it is aired.
Celebrities are honored several times during the year for their contributions in entertainment whether it is making music or acting in films, theater, or television. Awards shows are like sports: There's competition, bloodsweat-and-tears (if you think those women's feet aren't bleeding from those heels, you're mistaken), and, most importantly to networks, people who actually watch them live. Which is why there are so many of them…so, so many! The proliferation does
seem overwhelming but, nevertheless, it seems that you just can’t get enough of; “Who are you wearing?” and the everexpected “I didn’t expect this.” With a massive win for Olivia Colman in the Golden Globes, and nominations for The Favourite across the board in all upcoming awards shows, and finally nods from the BAFTA’s, Golden Globes and now the Oscars for Richard E Grant’s supporting role in Can You Ever Forgive Me?, it also seems to be a great time for British stars to be recognized.
Gig Listings BIRMINGHAM O2 ACADEMY
February 05 Rival Sons 06 The Faim 08-09 CHVRCHES 13 Polyphia 15 The Lemonheads 16-17 HRH Metal 18 Mayday Parade & The Wonder Years 19 Jay Rock 20 Nils Frahm 22 Lost Tiger 23 Wakedown 25 Trixie Mattel - Skinny Legend Tour 26 Troye Sivan: The Bloom Tour 27 Only The Poets 28 Pop Evil
O2 INSTITUTE
February 06 Versatile 07 Behemoth 07 Kovic 08 Gangstagrass 10 Buckcherry | Hoobastank 10 Social Beingz UK Tour 12 Chip 12 Witt Lowry 13 Professor Green 13 White Denim 14 Donell Jones Valentine Day Concert 15 White Lies 15 Wakening the Hollow 16 The Annual Valentines Ball 17 The Dead South 18 Hippo Campus 21 The Joy Formidable 21 K-Trap 22 Blue October 23 The Clause 23 Dodgy 24 The Struts 25 Demob Happy 26 The Lemon Twigs 27 Megan Davies 27 Blue Oyster Cult
ARENA BIRMINGHAM
February 09-10 SPAR British Athletics Indoor Championships 12 Tears for Fears 16 Müller Indoor Grand Prix Birmingham 17 City of Birmingham Games 22 Fatboy Slim 23 Professor Brian Cox LIVE
RESORTS WORLD ARENA
February 08 Boyzone 09 Ozzy Osbourne 12 Tears For Fears 16 Post Malone 17 The X Factor Live Tour 2019 23 Steely Dan 27 Twenty One Pilots
NEC
February 03-07 Spring Fair International 2019 10 Toy Collectors Fair 15-17 Great British Shooting Show 15-16 The National Franchise Exhibition 17-19 Craft, Hobby + Stitch International 17-19 MODA UK 19-24 The Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show 2019 27-28 Packaging Innovations, Empack and Label&Print 2019
TOWN HALL & SYMPHONY HALL
February 04 Tracy Thorn 06-07 CBSO: A Hero’s Life 07 Poetry Jam 6th Birthday Special 08 Róza Bene 08 The Alehouse Sessions: Preshow Social 08 Transatlantic Sessions
l Ozzy Returns to Birmingham on February 9th 08 Barokksolistene – The Alehouse Sessions 09 Lost Words Spell Songs 10 The Orchestra Of The Royal Opera House 11 Hanson - String Theory 12 THUNDER - Please Remain Seated 13 Holy Holy 14 CBSO: Sibelius and Grieg 16 CBSO: Peer Gynt and The Sea 16 The Classic Rock Show 17 Russell Watson 17 Purcell, The Indian Queen 19 Zakir Hussain and the Symphony Orchestra of India 20 CBSO: Yamada conducts Manfred 21 Melissa 22-24 Twirleywoos Live! 25 Trust Fast Health with Michael Mosley 26 Dan Snow - An Evening with the ‘History Guy’ 28 CBSO: Mozart and Brahms
SLADE ROOMS, WOLVERHAMPTON
February 04 The Noise Next Door Remix 15 Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club 22 Tommys Brownload Tour 23 That Manchester Night
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ENTERTAINMENT
Sam Fender launches into 2019 with new single and Spring dates
BRITs Critics’ Choice Winner Sam Fender is pleased to announce details of a new single. It is out now through Polydor Records. To coincide with its launch, a new headline tour is also announced for May. If 2018 felt like a noteworthy twelve months for North Shields musician Sam Fender, in truth, those first few chapters of his story have barely been written. With a debut album in the works for later this year, his opening bow in the US currently being rubberstamped, and a handful of sold-out UK shows already long-since in the diary, 2019 is surely when it starts getting serious. Following a hectic year of touring, signing a record deal, and becoming one of the hottest new names in the industry and beyond, Sam concluded 2018 being
awarded his first BRIT Award, as the Critics’ Choice for the year ahead. the road, and is determined to repay the faith with a supersonic 2019. Kicking off this month with a new single, Play God is one of the songs that first set him out on his journey. Play God was recorded in North Shields, and produced by longstanding friend and collaborator Bramwell Bronte. Following a pair of long since sold-out shows in Manchester and London next month, Sam will now play six more headline dates in May. The dates kick off on the May 2 at the Ritz in Manchester, and conclude at Bristol’s SWX on the May 13. He plays The Institute, Birmingham on May 10.
Birmingham Set To Welcome The Symphony Orchestra of India
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head of their i n a u g u r a l performance at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall in February, The Phoenix Newspaper spoke to the conductor of The Symphony Orchestra of India, Zane Dalal. The pride that Zane has in what he and the Orchestra have achieved in such a short space of time is evident as he gushes about their achievements and the upcoming tour. “This is something that we dreamt of when we started the
Orchestra, that we would have an orchestra that we, Mumbai and the nation could be proud of. “We’ve reached the point that we can tour internationally after only 13 years, having been created in 2006. “We’re extremely excited that Birmingham is our first stop, I can’t wait for the rehearsal in that Russel Johnson, Artec hall, let alone the actual performance!” “People may be surprised, as they may believe that the Orchestra is one that is representative of just Indian player, but that is obviously not
the case in any Orchestra. “There are at least 30 nations represented in the SOI.” Giving back to the community and bringing home grown talent up and nurturing it is a massive part of what the SOI does. “We have taken children fromt he age of 7 onwards and trained them to a very high level, to the point that at the age of late teens, some of them will be ready to join the orchestra.” Zakir Hussain makes a long awaited return to Birmingham to perform his Peshkar, a tabla concerto commissioned in 2015
by India’s National Centre of Performing Arts. “As a doffing of the cap to the strong traditionalists of Hindustani music, it is almost identical to a traditional Table solo. “The way it’s written it’s a marvelous escape for 22 minutes exploring the combination of the tabla and the orchestra.” The Symphony Orchestra of India perform at the Symphony Hall in Birmingham on the 19th February.
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ENTERTAINMENT
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Royal Wedding Gospel Singers Seek Choirs To Perform With Them At Symphony Hall
Children’s and youth choirs from across Birmingham are being given the opportunity to perform alongside Royal Wedding gospel singers The Kingdom Choir at Symphony Hall in May. The Kingdom Choir became a household name following the stunning performance of Stand By Me at the wedding of HRH Prince Harry and the Duchess Of Sussex
last May. The choir’s rendition of Stand By Me went straight in at Number 1 on the Billboard Gospel Songs Chart after the wedding and received more than 10 million views on YouTube. And now children’s and youth choirs are being given the opportunity to perform with the gospel stars when they come to
Symphony Hall on Friday, May 10. Karen Gibson, conductor of The Kingdom Choir, said: “Being part of the Royal Wedding was such an honour and we were delighted to be part of such a prestigious national day of celebration. “As we tour the UK in 2019, we can’t wait to meet people across the country – especially young singers” Town Hall Symphony Hall have worked with local choirs for over a decade, as the home of Town Hall Gospel Choir and Community Spirit. Originally formed in 2007 to celebrate Town Halls reopening, the 30 strong Town Hall Gospel Choir were winners of the first ever Songs of Praise Gospel Choir of the Year and have performed alongside the likes of Soweto Kinch, Ruby Turner and Town Hall Associate Artists Black Voices. Community Spirit is a project run by Town Hall Symphony Hall in partnership with THSH Associate Artists, Black Voices which offers local community choirs the opportunity to share repertoire and perform as a collective in a largescale concert in Symphony Hall. To perform alongside The Kingdom Choir, choirs must send a YouTube link to one of their performances and complete the application form at thsh.co.uk
Soaring Success for Innovative Birmingham Burlesque Company A
by Kirsty Card
Birmingham Burlesque dancer has been seeing shows and classes sell out as his dance company shoots to success. Founder, Danny Phillips set up his Burlesque dance company, House of Allure over a year ago with classes held on Wednesdays and Sundays at Robanna Studios. The classes welcome over 18-year-olds of any background and ability to learn a variety of styles and techniques including originally choreographed heels, burlesque and Latin routines. Danny told The Phoenix: “I founded House of Allure as a direct result of the success I had in founding the Birmingham City University Burlesque Society. “The society was hugely successful putting on performances as a range of Birmingham venues.
We’ve have had many successful shows like at Birmingham Pride Parade, The O2 Institute, The O2 Academy and various others’ “I realised after the success of the society, both commercially and intimately, that this was the direction I wanted my life to go. I wanted to help and teach others about sexuality, empowerment and give individuals the opportunity to express their art, beauty, selfexpression within Birmingham. He discovered the impact he was having on people while teaching for the society. Members didn’t judge each other on their mental health, disability, race, gender or beauty standards. Instead everyone started to celebrate their individuality. “Students would often lack confidence such as throwing up before class and wanting to leave university, but later went on to dance in front of thousands at Birmingham Pride happy, secure
and healthy. To me this change is so important. “My goal is to set up a strong presence in Birmingham that helps people engage in this art form to celebrate our differences, and inject more energy and positivity into the world.” House of Allure is Birmingham’s newest empowerment presence, which focuses on promoting sex appeal, confidence and fitness through burlesque classes and performance. The performance group consists of founder Dominus Von Vexo, Cocoa Kink, Locques La Roux, Lioness, Petite, Mama Mamba and Penny Dreadful. The array of talent explores different sides of sexuality through dance, striptease, drag, issue based performance, aesthetic and open mic. The group have received lots of feedback, selling out their
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Theatre in search for future stars of new West Side Story production Birmingham Hippodrome is looking to unearth hidden young talent in Birmingham for their first ever youth production of ‘West Side Story’ on their main stage in August 2019. Based on ‘Romeo & Juliet,’ West Side Story is a tale of teenage love on the streets of New York. Open auditions are being held for anyone aged 14-25 with a talent for singing, dancing, acting or performing. Their production is looking for a diverse, eclectic cast with raw talent, so from breakin’
performance and health & wellbeing classes within the first 6 months of promoting them. The success shows no sign of stopping. Danny added: “We are still within our first year of classes and shows! Next year is going to be a real adventure for everyone
involved, staff, performers, venues, audiences, students… which is truly exciting! “We aim to continue our dance classes which have recently been rebranded to bring out the optimal empowerment in our students, focusing on technique, musicality, energy and performance. “House of Allure’s biggest success was our last show An Eve of Burlesque on the 5th October at Eden Bar. A sell out event ending with a standing ovation. “It was an explosion of fun, glamour and pure fabulousness. This was close to House of Allure’s heart as this was our first show and to receive the overwhelming response, was more than we could have ever imagined.” “There is a lack of Burlesque in the Birmingham creative scene in comparison to other areas of the UK such as Manchester and London. So firstly, it was lovely that the art form is supported and wanted here, and was met with such great positivity. Phillips sold out his debut show ‘A Night of Burlesque’ with other talented performers in September and has already sold over half of their tickets to their ‘Night at the Movies’ show which will take place in March 2019. The VIP tickets were sold out before the first show was over. When asked about the next show, he added: “We chose movies as our next show, because as part of the House of Allure Presents and An Eve of Burlesque brand, we wanted to explore interesting themes.
“Each of our dancers are incredibly skilled and versatile in the what they can offer, so we like to challenge ourselves and use different themes to explore our art form further. “The silver screen is notorious for visual brilliance, glamour, action, adventure, politics and we can’t wait to share our love through fascinating acts with our audience. We have a hell of a lot of tricks up our sleeves for this show! “As a group we never expect anything! We all work extremely hard to ensure our shows, classes and performances are creative, professional, exciting and sexy as hell! The last show was a massive success and before that show was over. “So it is certainly heading in a very positive direction and we hope that we get another sell out! We are all producing new acts, which means amazing visuals, tantalizing costumes, stunning and statement group numbers and a good ol’ laugh! “On a personal note, I am always gobsmacked at the raw imagination of our current performers and it is hard for me not to cry with pride whenever I see them all on stage’ “Having heard their ideas… everyone involved is going to be very lucky to watch what they have to offer. So I suppose the one thing I do expect is that the House of Allure performers will work magic!” To enquire about upcoming classes email hq@houseofallure. co.uk or book tickets for ‘A Night at the Movies’ visit https://bit.ly/2sUBUeN
to ballet, or street dance to soul, all talent is welcome at the open auditions. There is no need to have any stage experience or formal training. Initial auditions take place on Saturday 26 or Sunday 27 January in the form of an hour and a half workshop. Everyone auditioning must prepare an excerpt of a song to share on the day that is no longer than 90 seconds, it can either be musical theatre, RnB or jazz. For more information, anyone interested in applying should visit:
www.birminghamhippodrome. com/westsidestory Birmingham Hippodrome Producer Kerry Andrews, said: “We can’t wait to find the incredible talent in our city for an exciting new production of the classic musical ‘West Side Story.’ This is a fantastic opportunity for young people to work with a professional team and perform in the main auditorium here at the theatre, something that has never been done before here.”
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ENTERTAINMENT VALENTINES DAY
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Discover what a Crystal Maze love is this Valentine’s Day
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his Valentine’s, The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience Manchester is hosting its very own speed dating gaming sessions to help blossoming young love find its way around the city. After all, what’s romance without a bit of banter, competition and fun? Kicking off from 7 pm, on February 15, the attraction is offering speed gaming sessions for singles as well as a free Valentine’s drink, all for just £35.99 per person in addition to being the star of your very own Crystal Maze show! Where teams will be led around the maze’s four themed zones: Aztec, Medieval, Industrial and Futuristic. Whether you’re looking for a
long-term relationship, friends with benefits, or just need to get back in the dating game, there’s no better place to keep your phones at a distance, ignore all cheesy dating apps and get to know someone in person than at The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience. To help spread the love, and all things mushy, the award-winning attraction has also introduced a new character, The Crystal Cupid - god of desire, love, attraction and freebies! Keep an eye out for Crystal Cupid around Manchester from February 11 to 14 as you might just get lucky and get struck by one of his arrows of love. If you do, be sure to check out Cupid’s love note which contains 241
vouchers to The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience Manchester. Eccentric Maze Masters will guide teams around the zones which contain different challenges: skill, physical, mental and mystery. Teams will complete these challenges with the goal of winning a crystal. Each crystal won means more time in the iconic dome, where the aim is to catch enough golden tickets to bag yourself a spot on the coveted leader board. Crystal Cupid will be out and about around Manchester from the 11th to 14th February handing out a limited number of 241 vouchers to the Crystal Maze.
Making It A Magical Valentine’s Day In Paris With an accordionist providing typically French musical accompaniment, a magical atmosphere is promised as Spirit of Discovery arrives in Rouen at dusk, just as the lights flicker on in the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’. This Rendezvous in Rouen voyage features a cruise along the River Seine for a two-night mooring in northern Normandy’s capital, the perfect place to stroll in the medieval ambience of
narrow streets and half-timbered houses. The romance continues on Valentine’s Day with the opportunity to visit Paris to see the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, visit the Louvre, explore the city’s bohemian side in Montmartre, or to simply enjoy the café culture. The ship’s Explore Ashore team offers expert knowledge to help guests choose a restaurant for a candlelit dinner or arrange
bespoke tours to suit interests from art to architecture, and music to history. On board complimentary drinks include selected wines with lunch and dinner, house-branded spirits and cocktails, draught beer and lager, plus all mixers and soft drinks so guests can relax on our stunning new ship and raise a glass to romance during their unique mini-cruise.
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Valentines Gift Guide N
othing says ‘I love you’ quite like a subtle hint that it’s time to shave your facial fur or upgrade your grooming regime. Murdock London’s barbercreated ‘Clean Label’ product range is as much a gift for her, as it is for him. Whether the goal is to look like a rugged mountain-man or a regal gentleman, Murdock London’s natural product line covers all bases from hair, beard and shaving to skincare and scent. Treat the man in your life this Valentine’s Day, by taking his grooming regime to the
Pandora jewellery is a surefire winner for this Valentines Day.
Disney, Mickey and Minnie with Love Pendant Charm £60.00
Pay tribute to an iconic love story with this Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse pendant charm. Rendered in sterling silver, the sweethearts are set against a heart-shaped charm touched with red enamel and hold a glistening heartshaped stone.
Love Script Necklace £80.00
Remind yourself or others that you are loved with this
next level. Among an incredible range of award-winning products, a variety of gift-sets have been curated to appeal to all manner of men.
The Gentleman of Two Cities, £40
Carry-on friendly grooming essentials, contained in a sturdy, tweed style travel-bag. - Quince & Oaskmoss Shampoo - Black Tea Body Wash - Black Tea Cologne - Sea Salt Spray - Texture Paste
statement-making necklace. Crafted in sterling silver and set with golden PANDORA Shine letters that sway with every move, the collier design is perfect for adding interest to necklines.
Arrow of Love Pendant Charm £65.00
Open your heart to love with this playful pendant charm. The polished sterling silver heart opens to reveal a PANDORA Shine arrow suspended from a delicate chain. Hidden within is a message of love. Wear the arrow inside the heart or dangling outside – you decide.
Avenger, £65
Our barbers have picked the requisites for a man to shave artfully in his home. A razor that never wears, a luxurious Shaving Cream to cushion the blade and a scent that intrigues. (Wilkinson Sword Blades inc.)
The CALM Kit, £35
Created to help fund a potentially life-saving phone call. £8 of each kit sold is donated directly to CALM, the mental health
charity. Kick back and relax with these chill-out products. - Black Tea Cologne - Black Tea Candle - Charcoal Body Soap
The Cologne Collection, £40
Introduce your senses to our four unique, masculine fragrances. Each scent reflects a different aspect of a modern man’s character, his tastes, travels, style and cultural pursuits: Black Tea, Avalon, Patchouli and Vetiver (4 x 10ml).
VALENTINES DAY
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Believe in the power of love as Ghost - The Musical returns
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ill Kenwright’s ‘beautiful’ and ‘spectacular’ production of ‘Ghost – The Musical’ returns to the UK this year, following a spectacular international tour in Dubai, Istanbul and Trieste. The 2019 UK tour, which opened at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, is the musical celebration of the double Academy Awardwinning movie ‘Ghost’ the hugely successful story, both critically and at the box office, where it was the highest grossing film in the year of its release. It starred the late Patrick Swayze alongside Demi Moore, Tony Goldwyn and Whoopi Goldberg and was directed by Jerry Zucker. Bruce Joel Rubin's script won the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay and Whoopi Goldberg won the Oscar for Best Actress in a
Supporting Role. The film's most iconic and moving scene was famously performed to The Righteous Brother's ‘Unchained Melody,’ which also features in the musical version. Kenwright said; “Ghost is a story full of hope and is one of those films which never leaves you. The book by Bruce Joel Rubin and score by Dave Stewart and Glenn Ballad come together wonderfully.” This is a show with such a strong emotional and musical life that it can mould to many visions and interpretations. It can be performed on any scale, and its vibrant heart will still captivate an audience and allows the imagination to flourish. It is purely theatrical in the greatest sense,” Bruce Joel Rubin said. Star of ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’ and ‘Jesus
Christ Superstar,’ Rebekah Lowings, will join the production of this timeless story of love, despair and hope in the part of Molly alongside Niall Sheehy (‘Titanic The Musical,’ ‘Miss Saigon,’ ‘Les Miserables’ and ‘Wicked‘) as Sam. West End musical theatre star Jacqui Dubois returns to play Oda Mae Brown, the part made famous in the film by Whoopi Goldberg. Sergio Pasquariello plays
Carl alongside Jules Brown as Willie, James Earl Adair with his haunting performance as the Hospital Ghost and Lovonne Richards as the Subway Ghost. Jochebel Ohene Maccarthy plays Louise and Sadie-Jean Shirley is Clara. Completing the cast is Chanelle Anthony, Josh Andrews, Samantha Noel, Charlotte-Kate Warren, Kage Douglas and Michael Ward.
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Tom Walker shines at launch of new SCCB/Relentless Records partnership
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inger/songwriter Tom Walker wowed students and lecturers alike as he roared into South & City College Birmingham’s Digbeth campus to mark the college’s new partnership with record label Relentless, with the BRIT nominee appearing as one of the most charismatic, approachable and engaging music stars you are likely to see. Up for ‘Best Breakthrough Act’
Glasgow-born, Mancunian, Tom – whose label include the like of So Solid Crew, Professor Green Nadia Rose and KT Tunstall - was well on tact with a short snippet of some of his great hits, including; ‘Just You & I,’ ‘Walk Alone,’ ‘Leave A Light On’ and ‘Just You And I’ which went down a treat with a packed college auditorium. “I hope our partnership might even unearth the next Tom Walker right
here at South & City College,” said a delighted College Principal, Mike Hopkins. Stopping off on his way to appear and perform on BBC’s Live Lounge, Walker, who cites influences ranging from Ray Charles to Muddy Waters and even-up-and-coming London artist Ray BLK, signed to Relentless Records not long after securing management interest from Covert Talent Management.
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Esoteric Signs and Symbols in Birmingham and their Hidden Astrological Origins
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by Kesa Nkulu
o understand one’s environment and surroundings, earthly and cosmological is to start to comprehend the mind and attributes of The Creator. These definitions are archetypal, having numerous allegoric meanings. I hope the explanations provided are enough to open up a deeper inner-standing of heavenly and internal functions, expanding and energizing the mind.
Written to make you think!
Have you ever thought what all these Signs and Symbols around you mean? All the various statues or figures of God knows who erected around our City Centre’s and the places we live? These monuments, statues and even buildings are constructed in specific locations and have Cosmological, Geometric and symbolic data inter-woven into the fabric of their architecture. During this brief study we will see that many of the signs and symbols that you encounter day by day really tell a story of the passage of the Earth, the Sun and the Planets through the signs of the Zodiac. Historic information informs us that Gargoyles were primarily used for water drainage, their hideous appearances developed later. The Gargoyles found on church’s are of particular interest, who, where and why are these gruesome, grotesque caricatures depicted on Church buildings, is it to scare away demons? Are they surveying the population beneath them? Or do they simply portray what lies within them?
The figures that we see in and around our town halls, all have a double representation or meanings, might they represent the definition on Earth and the definition in the Heavens! In the architecture that built Church’s, town halls, schools and libraries, symbols and spiritual numerology can be seen as circles, squares and triangles. Circles represent cycles rebirth and the Sun = the Most High in the Heavens, Squares with their right angles show mystic geometry of 90 degrees revealing manifestation and numerological ratio’s. Triangles reveal 3 phases of the One, spirit, soul and body. Stain Glass windows reproduce the effects of a Rainbow and the entities that dwell within their colours. All these Principles of greater understanding were learned at the feet of the Masters in Egypt, let’s not forget that Abraham was their first patriarch to travel there and later on we also find that Jesus went there to study along with Mohammad who fled to the Egyptian/Ethiopian peninsula. All of the Greek Masters had to study in Egypt, from Plato, Socrates, and Aristotle. Each studied for more than 10 years in Egypt and Pythagoras and Thales more than 20 years, but these facts are hidden to give the impression that the Greeks were the founders of illumination and democracy. It can only be said that the Black Race were clothed in Glory, Love and knowledge very early on. Today Bundu Dia Kongo is the modern version of these ancient mystery schools.
Financial Markets too have long been researching the link between the Universe of cosmic information and signs that seem to predict financial and cataclysmic events.
The Symbol of the SUN
The Sun, must be the most ‘Iconic symbol of all time’… The Sun… is one of the most depicted Symbols on the Earth. It was one of the earliest deities to be worshipped due to its light, warmth and life giving properties. Long before the church made a Son of Man, from the Sun, the Sun the Most High, the highest object in the sky, walked on water, reflected Sunlight on the sea, dispelling the darkness of the night = The Light of the world. Now if you replace the S-U-N by the S-O-N you can clearly see where the early Christian Church got its ideas from. In Latin the word Halo or Helios all means the Sun in the English Language. As a Cosmological object the Sun brings us warmth and grows our crops or there would be no life on Earth. The summer and winter solstices have an enormous importance, and once again the church has made literal the movements of the Stars. At this point we might ask ourselves then why these symbols are prevalent in city centres and sites that mark the equinoxes or solstices, could it be that this is the hidden religion of the establishment. The Light, which is symbolic for the Sun is a symbol of illumination often portrayed around a figures head.
The Celestial Sphere, Oldbury Road Smethwick, Birmingham
The Celestial Sphere, the fundamental model of the heavens in Greek thought, learned in Egypt, geometrically divided into poles, tropics, equator and ecliptic. The centre Ball represents the Earth; the thick band represents the Zodiac while the finer bands represent the planets, all in their rotational capacities. During the process of research I went to Birmingham Central Library, West Bromwich Library and Smethwick Library to try and attain more in depth information about the Celestial Sphere pictured above. Astonishingly there are no records stating who built the monument and when, which is incredible, perhaps it was erected by a group that wants to keep its identity hidden.
The Beacon of Light, West Bromwich, Birmingham
The Public Monument and Sculpture Association gives a description as follows the Beacon of Light; ‘Three vertical uprights painted blue support a large fibreglass cone at the top of the work. A spiral tube of steel winds its way around the outside of this framework. At two different points along it there are spheres of differing sizes. The larger one has a LED display appearing as a band around it: This displays the time in red, using a
24hour clock. The smaller one is higher off the ground, highly polished and reflective. It is further towards the centre of the work, and has several holes bored in its lower surface. The work is illuminated at night and acts as a beacon for motorists, changing colour as it does so. It also acts as a space age frame work to house a digital clock and a spherical ‘planet’. It might also be interpreted as a geometrical cone pulling energies from above... I think I’ll leave this one for you to interpret yourselves.
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Superhero Spotted…
Seat Secures Coveted Fleet Manufacturer Of The Year Award
SEAT has secured the prestigious Fleet Manufacturer of the Year award at the inaugural Great British Fleet Event 2019. Having taken the accolade of Most Improved Fleet Manufacturer just a year previously, SEAT has continued its ascent, this time winning the coveted overall award. Formerly the Fleet World Honours, the new Great British Fleet Event is bigger and better than ever for 2019. Under its new title, the ceremony took place in central London where it was announced that SEAT had won the most illustrious award of the night, as well as Best Fleet Supermini for the talented Ibiza hatchback. The Fleet Manufacturer of the Year award commends excellence in the overall delivery of fleet programmes and strength of vehicle line-up, with SEAT coming out on top. After achieving record true fleet sales again in 2018, this achievement caps what has been a significant 12-months for the manufacturer. With a year-on-year growth of 27%, SEAT UK has now been the fastest growing car manufacturer in true fleet for two consecutive years. The success didn’t stop at the overall award, however. The SEAT Ibiza triumphed over competitors to take home the desirable Best Fleet Supermini award.
MOTORS
Historic 100th WRC Win For Citroën
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ébastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia produced a heroic effort in their C3 WRC to win the Rallye MonteCarlo by the narrowest margin in the history of the event. A winning margin that reflected the intensity of the fight and the stunning performance delivered. This exceptional result saw Citroën Racing claim its hundredth WRC win at the start of the year in which the brand celebrates its centenary. Tackling the last 13.58 kilometres of this year’s Rallye
Monte-Carlo with a lead of just four tenths of a second certainly calls for an extremely cool head, amplified more so when your concentration has been somewhat disturbed by a throttle issue. With six world titles to their names, Sébastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia have long since mastered the art of keeping calm in high pressure situations with adrenalin pumping through their systems and demonstrated this once again with their commanding performance.
Second fastest on the final stage between La Cabanette and the Col de Braus, the Frenchmen sealed their seventh overall win and their sixth in a row in the Principality by just 2.2 seconds, on their first competitive outing in the C3 WRC. The result also means the pair now jointly hold the record for the number of wins at this prestigious rally and confirms how Sébastien and Julien are already at one with their new car. This outstanding performance is equally Citroën Racing’s
hundredth victory in the World Rally Championship, a historic achievement that reflects the kind of longevity at the highest level that few manufacturers can boast. This win comes almost twenty years after Citroën Racing’s first win at this level when the Xsara Kit-Car prevailed at the 1999 Rally de Catalunya, driven by the late Philippe Bugalski and JeanPaul Chiaroni, who now works as recce and weather coordinator for the team.
Confused Brits were performing double-takes when they spotted Iron Man busy on his day-off. The Marvel superhero’s alterego Tony Stark isn’t known for carrying out everyday chores during his downtime. But he looked at ease in the West Country, where he was photographed driving out of a Hyundai dealership with a brand-new model. Bemused onlookers watched the comic book legend take a dog for walk, go for a KFC drive-thru and drop off a load of cardboard at a local recycling plant. He was also seen spending some time in upmarket Clifton Village, home of Brunel’s famous suspension bridge, where he carried out his grocery shop, visited a florist and checked out the offers at an optician’s - to the shock of passing shoppers. But the superhero wasn’t in the UK for the latest adventure - it was a lookalike who had arrived in the city to show off the new Iron Man-inspired Hyundai Kona. After being unveiled at Comic Con in the USA last year, Hyundai has now confirmed it will bring 300 of the Kona Iron Man SUVs to the UK.
Local Pupils Get Science Inspired At McLaren Birmingham Pupils from a local school were the special VIP guests of retailer McLaren Birmingham in Solihull where they got to find out for themselves how pursuing a science or maths based career helps to create some of the world’s most iconic sportscars and supercars. Year 7 students from Alderbrook School met engineers and designers from McLaren Automotive to find out about what inspired their own journey to the luxury car company and how they use their skills to help push the boundaries of technology in the automotive sector. The children also got a rare chance to sit in some of the
marque’s famous models including a McLaren 570S Spider sportscar before having a chance to flex their engineering and coding brains by building and racing their own LEGO cars. To keep the students on their toes ahead of their LEGO build, McLaren tyre Partner Pirelli also supplied a Batak game to test the students’ reaction times. The retailer-based event is a further new initiative from the car company to help broaden its extensive STEM and educational outreach to communities across the country. McLaren Automotive already backs the UK STEM Awards (which has seen previous winners secure permanent roles
at McLaren) and has partnered with the BBC on educational science programming for primary school age groups and above. Developing the next generation of automotive expertise is vitally important to McLaren. As the company continues to grow, the need for a skilled workforce to design, develop, build and sell its cars is also expanding. Having just announced record global sales of 4,806 cars for 2018, the company needs to recruit over 800 people across a wide variety of roles from manufacturing and logistics to design, engineering and support functions.
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W WITH RHEA DEHANEY
elcome to another edition of Teen flair where I give you advice highlight realer people, travel experiences and much more! Are you excited for 2019? I am! What are you looking forward to this year? This month I will be reflecting on my trip to a camping trip I went
to in Somerset. I have been attending Soul Survivor since I was age 15 and i’ve fell in love with it ever since! This month, I’m introducing you to my Godsister Aaliyah, a talented muscian, and visonary of Praise Jam UK. Aaliyah has inspired me, to push for any ideas you may have, big or small!
Somerset: The Royal Bath & West Showground
Aaliyah brings praise jam to the youth Very true, are there any downfalls of being a young musician and As I have seen you play before, you always seem like your having so much fun. What are you best moments within the industry?
Hi, please tell us about your conference and how did your vision of praise Jam start?
My name is Aaliyah Jay and I am the founder and visionary of Praise Jam UK a youth worship Conference and Emerge Academy a Christian Music School In Birmingham. Praise Jam was initially birthed out of frustration and desire to see more training for the younger generation who had the passion and desire to nurture their gifting and use it more in a worship setting.
Why do you think it’s important young people pursue their passions/ dreams?
I think it is so important for young people to pursue their dreams because I believe God gives us those dreams, not for ourselves, but to be a blessing to others and help someone else. We just do not know who is waiting for us to make the first step in order for them to receive their breakthrough and their blessings.
One of the downfalls I found as a young musician is that very few people take you seriously and that is something that I am really trying to change. If your parents aren’t already in the game then it’s often hard for you to get a look in. On the other hand, being able to express myself in a way that words couldn’t even begin to communicate has to be one of the greatest things about this ministry. I have had the opportunity to play in various different countries and it’s been amazing to see how music transcends all Language barriers and human emotion. I’ve played in bands with people who didn’t speak a word of English but through music, we could all understand each other very well.
Where can we keep up to date with your upcoming projects?
To keep up to date with all the happenings of 2019 my personal Instagram is @AaliyahJayOfficial which is updated regularly or via @PraiseJamUK which is updated periodically.
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his is the place to be in summer! If you haven’t been your missing out!’ I visited Soul survivor practically every summer. I first gave my life to Christ at age 15 at Soul Survivor, and I met so many young teenagers every summer. There are so much things to do, from sports, open mics, competitions. I love it, and being a strong
lover of music I just love being there. Every morning and evening we meet in a massive tent. This is where the word is shared and we worship and dance, it’s amazing. I feel like if you’ve never been camping before then it’s a great place to start. My first camping experience was at Soul survivor and in the night it’s so freezing, but during the day it’s boiling!
It’s the perfect water fight weather, you can attend with anyone, friends, family or your church. My favourite part has to be, the simply being able to bond with your loved ones. I love meeting new people, so seeing different people, from all around the world is very enjoyable. It definitely makes the experience. R.Dehaney
Check out my first Youtube video ‘Rhea Dehaney’ I hope you are blessed :)
KEEP IN TOUCH As we are all aware there is power in social media, I will be using these networking sites, to promote this newspaper page, and #TEAMFLAIR which will not only advertise, but will promote
what to look forward to in the newspaper. I’m not only hoping to create just another column, but a movement, for young people of all races.
To Advertise on my page, or to send me news, information and more, contact me at rhea.dehaney@thephoenixnewspaper.com
Scripture of the month