Street Cred Magazine - May 2020

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Music fashion Film Gadgets holiday education health and fitness

MAY 2020

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Together We Stand At Home Stars all around the world come together to raise funds for COVID-19 Response efforts

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Keep Hip Hop Happy from Home

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uring these unprecedented times when many have been forced to down tools, Plymouth-based Hip Hop Social Collective, Street Factory, creators of the UK's first Hip Hop theatre, are continuing to reach out with their well-known positive vibe as they continue to stay connected with their community by providing elemental well-being support, mentoring, dance and fitness classes and encouraging entertainment – all from their own home.

In a normal week, founders Toby and Jo Gorniak would be working from their Plymouth theatre base, teaching classes, leading groups and providing their innovative forms of social, community and personal care and mentoring to in excess of 300 people.

Toby, Jo and their various hip

hop educators also regularly provide outreach classes for over 400 students in a range of onsite school sessions as well as additional training programmes and projects as required in other locations citywide.

Since Monday 16th March they have taken to technology to keep their arms around their extended family of over 350 young and vulnerable people across Plymouth and beyond, and to provide daily, and often hourly, essential support, and daily hip hop classes from their own living room.

With all of the worries and changes around the COVID-19 crisis situation, the Street Factory team are finding that their unique form of social care, and mentoring support, is needed more than ever.

Some of the issues and challenges facing the Street Factory community include

bullying, mental health of all kinds, low aspiration, racism, poverty, ageism, special and additional needs, homelessness, unemployment and lack of immediate opportunities.

The Street Factory service therefore supports a major number of people through these personal journeys on a day-today basis, making the COVID lockdown all the more serious for a number of these vulnerable community members.

Jo says, "The Stayathome requirement is tough for everyone in different ways, however, the personal struggles and challenges facing a number of the people in our extended Street Factory family are made even more significant, and present, than ever before.

“And we are determined to be there more than ever for these people in this heightened time of need.”

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Real Talk stepping W up to help during global health fears

ith a mission statement to create a socio e c o n o m i c platform and legacy for communities, Real Talk Radio has started up a help service for parents with children and the vulnerable.

For people in desperate need of any help, with anything such as shopping or food, they will be there to aid people at no cost to you in general circumstances.

Their vision is to open and control the financial destiny for the benefit of communities with their strategy whilst consolidating, communicating and creating economics through organised and effective business and community networking.

A podcast that is filled with refreshing honest conversation, the listener-funded station, which covers issues such as; work, love, money, friendships, racism and health, Real Talk Radio is looking for people’s help – so that they can help vulnerable people during these troubled global fears.

For anybody who would like to find out more, or would like to donate, contact Real Talk Radio’s website for further details.

ENTERTAINMENT

OSCARS to change streaming rules The governing body behind the Oscars has changed its rules so that films that debut on streaming services or video on demand serves are to be made eligible for next year’s awards.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Science’ current rules say that films can only enter if they have been shown in a LA cinema for at least a week.

But with picture houses closed during the coronavirus pandemic, organisers have said that a “temporary” exception was necessary.

Many films that are due for releases have been delayed, with others going straight to digital.

In a joint statement, Academy president, David Rubin and chief executive, Dawn Hudson, said: “The Academy firmly believes that there is no great way to experience the magic of movies than to see them in a theatre.

“Nonetheless, the historically tragic Covid-19 pandemic necessitates this temporary exception to our awards eligibility rules”.

The Academy said the exemption would end when cinemas reopen.

In recent years, the Oscars have admitted films made by streaming services like Netflix and Amazon – but only if they have also had a cinema release.

Oasis to reunite for NHS “with or without Noel” Liam Gallagher has said that super-band, Oasis, will be reuniting for a special one-off gig to raise funds or the National Health Service.

But, he did add one particular caveat… that it will go ahead “with or without Noel”.

After making the announcement, and getting no immediate response from his brother (Noel), the band’s lead singer Liam wrote; ‘Wanna clear

a few things up.

‘Oasis gig for NHS charity as in all money raised goes to NHS not to me – will happen with or without Noel Gallagher.

‘It may not be the same but trust me it’ll still blow your knickers off’.

The band made an acrimonious split following a mass backstage brawl in 2009 The ‘Brothers Gallagher’ have not spoken to each other since.

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0121 339 5885 (Birmingham) l The Stereophonics return to Arena Birmingham on February 29th

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Black Sabbath star, Iommi, auctions prized guitar for NHS Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi raised £16,00 after auctioning items from his personal collection in aid of the NHS during the present coronavirus crisis.

Amid the personal items up for sale was one of the legend’s prise possession; an Epiphone SG guitar which will be signed by the Sabbath frontman.

With healthcare staff struggling as the Covid-19 pandemic is believed to yet peak, he also auctioned CDs, vinyl disks and DVD box sets, with the money raised going straight to the University Hospital Birmingham in Iomi’s home town.

The 72-year-old said: “Coronavirus is difficult for everyone but it has also shown the great work being varied out

by our NHS”.

Iommi, who is a patron of the specialist cancer ward at the city’s Heartlands Hospital, came up with the idea whilst he was clearing out his studio whilst he was self-isolating during the lockdown.

“It’s about realising what we have in this country with the NHS”, the Birmingham-born star said. “It’s horrible but, in some ways, it’s bringing people together more”.

With an early guide price of £3,000, the guitar attracted almost US$4,940 in bids since the auction first went live.

Head of fundraising at the healthcare organisation, Justin Davy, said: “The NHS was incredibly grateful for Tony’s support at this extremely difficult time”.

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T

o mark International Dance Day on the 29th April, Birmingham Royal Ballet premiered Alone | Together, a short film created by dancers Tom Rogers and Kit Holder, and filmmaker Dan Lowenstein.

Alone | Together is based on the march from Holst’s Moorside Suite and is choreographed by Kit Holder.

Five musicians from Birmingham Royal Ballet's Royal Ballet Sinfonia and six Company dancers were joined by Assistant Director Marion Tait and Director Carlos Acosta, as, from their homes across Birmingham and

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beyond, they all performed Alone | Together.

The film premiered at 11am and is available to watch on the Companies social media channels and website.

The performance piece involved Carlos Acosta CBE, Marion Tait CBE, Tzu-Chao Chou, Céline Gittens, Brandon Lawrence, Max Maslen, Delia Mathews, Beatrice Parma; Robert Gibbs (1st Violin) Rebecca Jones (2nd Violin) Errika Horsley (Viola) António Novais (Cello) Vera Pereira (Double Bass).

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Published storyteller and poet to release new book

Haim Release Single From Upcoming new Album

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Published storyteller and poet Clive Alando Taylor is set to release his new book, ‘SpiritVolition’ sharing his collection that takes a look at language and society through the expression of poetry and songs.

‘SpiritVolition’ is a collection of verses containing paradoxical and controversial elements interpreting current events and trends such as the multiculturalism, the new generation’s mind-set and progression of ideas in social media.

With that said, it is a modern expression that is “profound and extreme” using language. These pieces aim to stir the reader’s imagination and emotions as well as expression of ideas using what is deemed as unorthodox songs and poetry.

These songs and poems possess aesthetic and provocative qualities with distinctive style — incorporating wordplay — and rhythm. It also has earthly and spiritual components that readers can reimagine and enjoy.

rammy nominated, Southern California-bred sister band HAIM have released I Know Alone from their highly anticipated forthcoming album Women In Music Pt. III (Polydor Records).

With its wild collage of warped vocal samples and 808 beats combined with wobbly cello notes and stark acoustic guitar, ‘I Know Alone’ replicates a certain sense of emotional unrest from feelings of loneliness.

While the song was originally inspired by the band’s feelings of loneliness after coming home from tour, ‘I Know Alone’ and its lyrics like “been a couple days since I’ve been out” and “’cause nights turn into days that turn to grey” now take on a whole new meaning in today’s world as so many of us stay home and practice social distancing.

In tandem with the song, Haim have shared a stark, yet precisely choregraphed video directed remotely

by Jake Schreier (Chance The Rapper, Kanye West, Selena Gomez). The band co-choreographed the video with Francis Farewell Starlite. “’I Know Alone’ was always going to be the next song we released, but it feels eerily appropriate given what’s going on in the world right now,” Haim say about the new single, “We hope this song keeps you company.”

Speaking on the new album release date, the band add, “Now that we’re all starting to settle into our new normal, it feels like a more appropriate time for us to release this body of work. We’re so excited to announce that our new album will now be released on June 26.”

University of Warwick Wins RICS Social Impact Award RICS (Royal Institution for Chartered Surveyors) has announced the winners of their inaugural RICS Social Impact Awards for the West Midlands where the University of Warwick’s Sports and Wellness Hub in Coventry won the esteemed title of Project of the Year.

Over 20 construction projects, whose entries celebrate their role in transforming the West Midlands’ communities and the everyday lives of people, were shortlisted back in February.

Designed to change lives, and inspire and motivate staff, students and the local

community to get active, the Sports and Wellness Hub project was a crucial part of the University of Warwick's estates strategy and plays a key role in its ambition to have the most physically active UK campus community.

From a 12-lane swimming pool with flexible configuration, 144-climbing-routes wall, 1000-seater sports hall and the biggest gym in HE, the 16,684 sq ft Hub features smart building technology throughout.

RICS Social Impact Awards Head Judge for West Midlands, Bryony Martin commented: “The building forms a crucial

part of the university’s ambition to have the most physically active campus community in the UK. The Hub is welcoming, accessible and inclusive, with attendance in the first year far surpassing expectations, in particular drawing in large numbers from the wider community.

“The building is stylish, incorporates smart technology and sits well within its native woodland setting. Willmott Dixon delivered the project, defect-free, on time and in budget employing innovative design to aid this achievement.”

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#DontRush lightens the gloom with the ultimate challenge

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group of NHS doctors have taken up the new challenge that has taken social media by

storm.

Created by doctors from and African origin, the #DontRush

video challenge is bringing a ray of light into the gloom that is the coronavirus pandemic whilst highlighting the issues of the underrepresentation of diversity within the National Health Service.

With people now under lockdown and strict social distancing measures the #DontRush challenge sees the doctors glamming themselves up for a make-believe night out in their own homes or place of work.

The hilarious viral challenge uses a soundtrack, ‘Don’t Rush’ by Young T & Bugsey which is meant to give the illusion of somebody readying themselves to go in a matter of seconds But, of course, let’s face it – a matter of a whole lot of minutes is ‘mission impossible’ in itself.

Nonetheless, the aim here is for participants to hone the speed of there make up skills with the aim to raise money for the National Health

Service.

And, as it already stands, the TikTok challenge is receiving overwhelming response to date.

Toluwalase Asolo, a business management student at the University of Hull, started #DontRush to highlight togetherness in isolation after getting connected with ladies from Congolese, Nigeria, Sierra Leon and Turks & Caicos.

The video celebrates their diverse cultures, professions and interests all in one clip.

“It challenges has shown us that Black women creaters have tha ability to maintain virility in a digital space that is quick to eraise them.

“The #DintRushChallenge empowers and encourages women to embrace their beauty with and without makeup.

“But, in all honesty, we didn’t anticipate it blowing up the way it has.

The #DontRushChallenge has swept the world to bring some light relief do the doldrums that is Covid 19.

ENTER SHIKARI RELEASE THEIR NEW AMBITIOUS ALBUM

Enter Shikari have released their ambitious sixth studio album ‘Nothing Is True & Everything Is Possible’, through So Recordings. ’Nothing Is True & Everything Is Possible’ is a punk, electronic, orchestral opus, produced by Rou Reynolds the renowned frontman at the centre of this pioneering and uncompromising musical force.

A poignant soundtrack for the new decade, this is an album about possibility, the unnerving irony of endless possibility, the band asking themselves what they can achieve as the world questions “what is possible?”.

“But maybe there's something quite apt about releasing this record right now?”

Rou Reynolds comments, “forced to promote our grand artistic endeavour via inadequate wifi signal.

One would have thought, in recognition of the fact that the exact sort of societal change I've been writing about mankind needing for the past decade is now playing out in real time in our real lives, the Gods would have cut us some slack, but it looks like we're in the same boat as the rest of you. Albeit infinitely more talented.

“Stay home, and keep washing those hands (and listen to our record).”

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Birmingham celebrated in huge A new Cold War Steve artwork

ENTERTAINMENT

new artwork which celebrates Birmingham and its people has been revealed by satirical collage artist Christopher Spencer, aka Cold War Steve, and Birmingham Museums Trust.

The hugely detailed work, Benny’s Babbies, is the artist’s most complex photocollage of his career to date, and was due to be revealed in his hometown at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery but has now been shared online whilst the doors to the museum are temporarily closed.

Spot comedian Joe Lycett and cricketer Moeen Ali, alongside Duran Duran and activist and Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai, with the members of Black Sabbath rocking out on top of the Rotunda building behind, where Benny from TV soap opera Crossroads (filmed in Birmingham) peers out over the crowd full with many more famous and recognisable Brummie faces.

Birmingham Museums Trust commissioned Cold War Steve to produce work inspired by the Trust’s digital image database, which hosts thousands of out-of-copyright images from the city’s collection which can be downloaded

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and used creatively for free.

The background of Benny’s Babbies is the View of St Martin's Church Birmingham from the Bullring,1815-1835, by Thomas Hollins, which features on a japanned tray. The backdrop has been updated with familiar city scenes, including the Birmingham Pride Festival, the brutalist architecture of the now demolished Central Library, Birmingham’s beloved Mr. Egg takeaway, and the Central Birmingham Mosque.

Benny’s Babbies is part of a series of artistic interventions and events planned in partnership with Cold War Steve and Black Hole Club, called Cut, Copy, Remix. The project set out to encourage creative use of the thousands of public domain images from Birmingham’s collection to celebrate the extensive resource and support emerging digital artists to use the images to inspire brilliant and bizarre new work.

Following an open call out for artists, the Birmingham Museums team also commissioned Mixed Milk, a Birmingham artist called Martin McNally, to make a film about the works in the collection.

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Council Delivers 10,000th Food Parcel

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ity of Wolverhampton Council has delivered 10,000 emergency food parcels to vulnerable residents since the start of the coronavirus lockdown.

The milestone was reached this week as council leader, Cllr Ian Brookfield, spoke of his pride at the efforts of the authority to “look after its own”.

Cllr Brookfield personally delivered the 10,000th food parcel to a resident on The Scotlands Estate who has underlying health conditions and lives alone.

In just a few days after the Government announced the lockdown last month, City of Wolverhampton Council swung

into action and redeployed hundreds of staff away from their normal roles and converted WV Active Aldersley leisure centre into a distribution hub.

It was one of the first places in the country to start delivering parcels of free essential food supplies to vulnerable and isolated residents who have no other sources of help.

The council is now delivering more than 3,000 food parcels every week and demand continues to grow. Only people who are vulnerable with no other support

network are eligible for a parcel.

Cllr Brookfield, who is a former nurse and has been doing a weekly shift as a delivery driver throughout the crisis, said: “I deliver parcels every week and you can see how much it means to people when we turn up not just with a box full of supplies, but also a friendly face.

“Of course the food is important, but being able to talk with someone for a few minutes and see another human being, chat and have a bit of banter when you are isolated at home is often just as important.”

Global su do their b Covid-19 fi A

s the global pandemic this is coronavirus continued to claim unrelenting fatalities, global superstars took their own initiatives to do their own massive ‘bit’, in support of the vital frontline workers who are facing the crisis head-on.

While American multi-award winning singer Lady Gaga headed one star-spangled special televised concert alongside the likes of Lizzo, Billie Eilish, Stevie Wonder and Sir Elton John, the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) led a host of artists and celebrities to also raise awareness to help the Caribbean island in its fight against the Covid-19 spread with their own Telethon Jamaica, ‘Together We Stand’.

“The whole aim of the event was to helping the fundraise of the World Health Organisation

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and Global Citizens” Lady Gaga said, “and everyone involved were really excited about the show.

“We wanted everyone to put wallets back and enjoy the show and we raised well in excess of $35million for the solidarity response”.

The ‘Telethon Jamaica Together We Stand’ line-up saw the likes of Olympian Usain Bolt, singers Ziggy, Damian and Stephen Marley, Koffee, Shaggy, Sean Paul, Maxi Priest, Richie Spice, Wyclef Jean, Gloria Estefan, Sean Kingston, Sting and others make their individual pleas and pledges for the island's healthcare workers, with – as with the Lady Gaga-led showpiece - the virtual fundraising concert featured remote performances by the stars, which was broadcast entirely online to raise the funds to help in the purchase of equipment for

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workers on the frontline of the coronavirus battle there.

The country’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange, said: “It was the combined efforts of the many individuals and companies of the entertainment industry, as well as other sectors of the Jamaican society, that ensured the event was successful in reaching its end-goal”, whilst along with the group Global Citizen, Gaga had already raised $35m (£28m) for the World Health Organisation.

The funds were to allow the organisation to buy protective equipment for health workers and to support the efforts to develop drugs and vaccines.

She (Lady Gaga) also announced that she had co-curated a concert to recognise the efforts of health workers in the fight against

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uperstars biT in ight

ENTERTAINMENT

Supporting the growth of the West Midlands film, TV and games sector

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reate Central, the industry-led body set up in late 2019 has secured £2million of investment to deliver a programme of activities to help turbo charge the West Midlands film, TV and games sector.

Create Central has been awarded £1million through the BFI’s National Cluster Growth Fund using National Lottery money to deliver a long term growth plan specifically to meet the needs of the West Midlands’ screen businesses.

In addition, £500,000 investment has been confirmed by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and £500,000 from Tin Smart Social, a regional social enterprise.

The investment package will support the West Midlands local industrial strategy including a twoyear programme developed by Create Central members to support the continued growth of the region’s screen sector which will be ever

more important to the UK screen sector’s post Covid-19 recovery.

The programme is heavily focused on the ‘future of media’, with innovation, digital infrastructure, immersive storytelling and digital employability programmes taking place amongst more traditional elements such as attracting film

and TV production to the region and promoting the West Midlands screen sector on a global stage.

Leading industry professionals are backing the work of Create Central which has members including Peaky Blinders writer Steven Knight and Nativity film franchise founder, Debbie Isitt.

Covid-19 During the telethon; Jamaican Prime Minister, Andrew Holness, said: “The people of the United States … see how disastrous this is as a disease, and the impact it can have on even the most wellresourced health service".

The 6-hour ‘Together We Stand Telethon’ which was live-streamed on VP Records’ YouTube channel, with a portion being broadcasted live on Television Jamaica and various digital platforms, able to contribute over $50 million towards procuring the personal protective equipment.

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Harry Styles sends open letter to fans about rescheduled TOUR DATES

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e was due to be welcomed to the Utilita Arena Birmingham for their big launch night, however, with safety the priority, the good news for his fans is that British pop singer-songwriter and actor, Harry Styles will be back next year.

Well-known as a member of the insanely popular boy-band One Direction, the Redditch, Worcestershire-born star was due

l Harry Styles

to perform on 15 April 2020, but he sent out an open, personal letter to his hordes of fans: “Anyone who knows me knows that performing has always been my favourite part of working in music.

However, during times like these, the safety and protection of touring crew, fans, and everyone else around the world is an immediate priority.

“For obvious reasons, the upcoming tour in the UK and Europe will be rescheduled to 2021.

“Tickets already purchased will be valid for these shows. In the meantime,

we will be closely monitoring the situation around the world and will continue updating you in the months to come.

“For the safety of yourself and others, please self-isolate. We’re all in this together.

“I can’t wait to see you out on the road as soon as it’s safe to do so. Until then, treat people with kindness.

H” Harry Styles will now be performing 1 event in Birmingham on Thursday 11th March 2021 at the Arena Birmingham.

l Rick Astley

Rick Astley set to play free concert for Emergency Services

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980’s pop superstar, Rick Astley, is set to play a huge, one-off concert after he posted details of the massive gig, which is due for the Manchester Arena, on social media.

In a video message, the singer, probably best known for his greatest hit; ‘Never Gonna Give You Up’, said that it is the very least he could do to say ‘Thank You’ for all the NHS and Emergency Services who are working

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on the frontline in the fight against the worldwide epidemic.

He said: “I promise you that my band and I will give it our all to give everyone there a great night out”.

Shows and concerts have been called off around the world and venues have been forced to close for week, possibly months, - or, even longer – due to the pandemic.

Astley’s concert is due to take place on October 28.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Stephen Fry to star in online play to aid theatre industry

Award-winning D’Frick going worldwide with Song of the Year Volta Music Award winner, Tom D’Frick, is taking the international music scene by storm with his latest hit ‘OVorvorm’ – which literally means they are scared.

The Ghanaian superstar, who was voted ‘Best Hip-Hop Song of The Year’ at the event, is getting his banging hit played around Africa, throughout Europe and beyond.

The tune is D’Frick’s first major tune this year, which is heavily demand throughout some of Europe’s major towns

and cities and high on the playlist at the Sensation Club, in Dubai.

The tune is also a favourite for Ghanaians throughout the US. With the much-loved Younggod and Kelvynbot also on-board, the song is, without doubt, an instant hit.

No.1 trending song in the Volta Region.

For some time now, standout track; ‘Ovorvorm’ has been the number one trending song in the Volta Region in Ghana.

C

omedian, actor and writer, Stephen Fry, will star in a new online radio play to raise funds for the theatre industry as it deals with the effects of the coronavirus pandemic.

Emily Atack, famed for her role as Charlotte Hinchcliffe in the multi-award winning E4 The Inbetweeners, multi-award winning actress, singer, model and composer, Sheila Atim, Sarah Hadland of BBC TV’s Miranda and Russell Tovey, who is best known for playing the werewolf, George Sands, in another BBC production; the supernatural drama Being Human, will all appear in ‘The Understudy’, based on the novel by David Nicholls.

Fry said: “I am just so delighted to be working on Henry FilouxBennett’s superb adaptation of David Nicholls’s ‘The Understudy’.

“I do hope lots of you will listen in and combine a good time with support for our wonderful theatre

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l Stephen Fry industry”.

Nicholls added: “I’ve always had a soft spot for ‘The Undertaker’ and was hugely excited to see it come to life on a new online stage

and with such a great team”.

The play will be broadcast online in two parts, in May, to members of the public who have bought a £5 ‘ticket’.

All of the actors taking part in the production will record their individual lines separately at their individual homes.

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Aston Martin Acts To Support Customers During Lockdown

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ston Martin is working closely with its dealer network to help customers worldwide during the unprecedented lockdown conditions imposed to slow the spread of COVID-19.

The brand is taking positive action to extend to 30 June 2020 all new-vehicle warranties that are due to expire, or have expired since 14 March 2020 or, in the case of China, since 1 January 2020. That is, broadly speaking, the period of lockdown in most countries where such conditions exist.

Furthermore, customers are being reassured the condition in their car’s Owner’s Guide stating that failure to adhere to specified service intervals may invalidate warranty coverage, is being waived until restrictions change and appropriate dealer operations are able to resume.

Aston Martin owners whose cars require a vehicle service during the disruption caused by COVID-19 are being assured that their warranty cover will be unaffected, and all cars serviced within three months or 2,000 miles (whichever

is earlier) of the in-car service indicator will be protected in full by any applicable Aston Martin warranty.

As soon as restrictions change and Aston Martin dealer operations are resumed, owners of these cars with service work due are being asked to arrange a booking with their dealer. The cars will then have the scheduled service work completed by fully trained service technicians using genuine Aston Martin parts.

Andy West, Director of Client Services at Aston Martin, said: “For all of us, the COVID-19 pandemic and associated lockdown has been,

and will continue to be, a very trying time.

“While issues such as car maintenance and warranty cover are, quite rightly, not top of mind for many we want to let our customers know that in partnership with our global dealer network we are doing all we can to support them, and their sports cars, through this period and will be looking forward to helping them get back behind the wheel of their beloved Aston Martin sports cars when it is safe and appropriate to do so.”

MG Motor Fights Coronavirus By Donating 30,000 Face Masks To Hospitals

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G Motor has continued its support for the fight against coronavirus by supplying PPE face masks to hospitals in the UK and Ireland.

The donation, which is one part of MG’s contribution to the international effort, will benefit hospitals in Birmingham, South Wales, Dublin and Cork.

MG’s first donation of 10,000 face masks was delivered to the NHS Nightingale Hospital Birmingham, at the NEC, on 20th April. The hospital, which was built in just two weeks from inception, has an initial capacity of 500 beds which can be

increased to 2,000 if necessary.

A spokesperson for University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, which runs the Nightingale Hospital Birmingham, said: “This donation of face masks reinforces our resources in the fight against coronavirus.

NHS Nightingale Hospital Birmingham will give hospitals across the West Midlands extra capacity should they need it and we are grateful for the support of local businesses like MG Motor.”

Head of Sales & Marketing at MG Motor UK, Daniel Gregorious, said “Given the international nature of our

business we were able to use our extensive network of suppliers to source face masks and supply them to the front-line, where they are needed.

“Our NHS heroes and their counterparts in Ireland are leading the fight against coronavirus and we are glad to be helping their efforts in this way”.

A further donation of face masks will be delivered to two NHS Trusts in South Wales, with each receiving 5,000 face masks.

In the Republic of Ireland, MG is donating 10,000 face masks to hospitals in Dublin and Cork.

Norton bikes in £16million Indian buy-out One of Britain’s most famous British motorbike brands, Norton Motorcycles, has been bought by Indian manufacturer, TVS Motor, in a £16m deal after the Leicestershire firm went in to administration in January.

TVS Motor announced it had purchased the "iconic" British brand on Friday and hopes to revive and expand it.

Founded in Birmingham, in 1898, Norton Motorcycles is one of the UK's last remaining motorcycle marques, best known for its role in motor sport.

In a statement, TVS Motor's

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joint managing director Sudarshan Venu said: "This is a momentous time for us.

Norton is an iconic British brand celebrated across the world, and presents us with an immense opportunity to scale globally.

"We will extend our full

support for Norton to regain its full glory in the international motorcycle landscape.

And we will work closely with Norton's employees and customers and the company would retain its distinctive identity".

Norton Motorcycles began making motorbikes in 1902 before soon becoming associated with races such as the Isle of Man TT. More recently, since it moved its operation to Donington Park in Leicestershire, in 2008, its most famous models are the Dominator and the Commando, while it’s Norton Interpol was used by UK police in the 1980s.

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Innovative Leamington Company Wins Queen’s Award

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Leamington company on the cutting edge of new motor control technology has been recognised with the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise in Innovation.

Electric high speed motor specialists Aeristech, which is based in Hermes Close, has been honoured for its work in developing a range of advanced, high-speed electric motors to power electric superchargers and hydrogen fuel cell air-side compressors.

The rapidly growing company, which employs over 40 employees in the town, has a growing portfolio of contracts with vehicle manufacturers and Tier 1 suppliers bringing the benefits of its technology to market.

Aeristech’s unique technology allows higher performance from the company’s smaller, more efficient running motors, thus helping its customers to achieve higher performance from their own products and playing a significant role in the advancement of technologies to reduce energy consumption and vehicle emissions.

Richard Wall, CEO of Aeristech, said: “Over the

MOTORS

past few years Aeristech has developed and commercialised what we believe to be the most advanced, oil-free, high-speed electric motor systems available, and it is very gratifying to have this recognised by the receiving of a Queen’s Award for Enterprise.

“I am very proud of our talented team at Leamington HQ who have been instrumental in this recognition.

“Our clients in the automotive industry, as with other sectors we’re operating in, such as aviation, stationary power and industrials, are adopting our technology as part of their strategy to reduce emissions.

We expect to become the technology of choice for fuel cell applications, given the significant energy reductions we can provide.”

The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise recognised Aeristech’s progress in delivering their most ambitious set of motor systems yet. Established 54 years ago it is the most prestigious business award in the UK and celebrates the success of exciting and innovative businesses which are leading the way with pioneering products or services.

Bentley Motors Confirms All Retailers In China Now Open

B

entley Motors has announced that its 40-strong retail network in China is now fully open, as the country gradually returns to work following the COVID-19 outbreak.

Simultaneously, the luxury British marque is starting customer deliveries of the allnew Flying Spur, its luxury Grand Touring sedan, in the country.

As in all affected markets around the world, Bentley has been collaborating closely with its local partners, following

rigid guidelines and procedures put in place in line with local regulations to move forward in a safe and effective manner.

Behind the scenes, all parties have been working together to prepare for the moment when conditions allow the resumption of activities. New measures include extended opening hours to reduce showroom traffic, increased cleaning and protective equipment in place, and digital presentations where possible.

Kim Airey, Managing Director of Bentley Motors Chinese

Mainland, Hong Kong and Macao, said: “During this difficult time, a series of practices were in place to protect the well-being of our stakeholders and safeguard services for our customers.

We have been paying close attention to developments surrounding the outbreak and are now pleased to be able to reopen our showrooms, with robust safety measures put in place, and allow customers back in to experience the extraordinary Bentley line-up.”

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'Sector X: The B.R.U.C.E. Project’ bringing people together while apart

W

ith the nation under lockdown, the brains at Bewilder Box made it their mission to bring the joy of escape room games to homes all over the UK and beyond.

Collaborating with Eltham Escapes, they’ve launched an online multiplayer game that allows up to 6 players to work together from various locations in Sector X: The B.R.U.C.E. Project.

Sector X: The B.R.U.C.E. Project will run on any browser, (Chrome recommended) from a PC or Mac desktop computer or laptop, and is available from shop. escaperoomonline.co.uk priced at £15.00.

The puzzles, which are synced across each players screen, have been designed specifically to require

cooperation, so teams will need to drag, drop, solve and sleuth their way to victory, whilst communicating in real-time via Zoom or their chosen platform.

The game is heavily inspired by the point and click adventures that were made popular by Lucas Arts in the 1990s. ‘Point and click games evolved into the escape the room puzzle apps, which in turn evolved into reallife experiences’, commented Dave Middleton (co-founder of Bewilder Box).

‘Making this game feels like we’ve come full circle, though the original games were never multiplayer, which is the crucial difference here. Our online game is a shared experience; just like an actual escape room’.

Sector X: The B.R.U.C.E. Project is the latest in a long line of games

developed by the Bewilder Box team including its own hit games: ‘The Initiative’ and ‘Judgement D.A.V.E.’ located in Brighton; ‘The Official Peaky Blinders Escape Room’ for Escape Live in Birmingham; and ‘Flight 338: The World’s First Escape Plane’ in London.

Dave Middleton and Dave Staffell (co-founders of Bewilder Box Escape Rooms) are leading experts on the UK’s escape room culture. They have been interviewed by multiple publications including The Economist; co-organised and have been speakers at the UK’s escape room industry conference attended by 500 industry members in 2019; and appeared on ‘What Britain Buys’ with Mary Portas, discussing the growth of the escape room industry.

Send your stories in to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com

@PhoenixNewsUK

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The Phoenix Newspaper - May 2020 - Page 31

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BIG DAVE’S SAFE PAGE

Practicing Mindfulness Using SLAMH T

he education platform that I have devised for Schools, NEETS, The Probation Service, HMP Prisons and is so relevant and apt for all of us, especially with the National Coronavirus emergency.

I devised it to help achieve and educate on so many issues that children, young people, young offenders, prisoners, are trying to address.

So I developed the SLAMH Program. SLAMH can mean two things (Start Low Aim High) or (Start Looking At Myself Honestly) depending on which audience I am addressing.

My program SLAMH is there to help and overcome fears, break bad habits and to improve self esteem.

To achieve and earn all of the above is possible because the one that SLAMH will help to deliver is a strong mind and a ‘Never Say Can’t Attitude’.

With twenty six world records to my credit I have found that the mind is the highest level of strength.

Like many athletes and sportsmen and women of all

sports, they like me, will take time out and put themselves in the ‘Zone’ before the event they are taking part in.

Each person will have their own individual way to deliver the appropriate mind set to enable them to deliver their very best.

So I class SLAMH as a life changing tool that can be used to make a difference to yourself.

With this mind strength comes another set of seven life changing tools to enable you to pick the right tool for the right situation.

These tools will cover Moral, Spiritual, Physical, Mental, Emotional, Educational and Inspirational events that will help to build, develop and shape your life’s outcomes.

All of the above is what SLAMH is all about as an alternative mindfulness education program and should be seen as a creative platform.

Not just for the hard to reach and disinfected in our society but also to help those people with mindfulness and wellness issues.

Especially for those unfortunate individuals who have to carry around that terrible ‘Black Dog’ on their backs.

SLAMH can really help with the stigma and taboo that burdens the individual that has to carry that enormous weight on their shoulders.

SLAMH works because of the 10 elements that make up the program. These consist of: Strength ( Inner and Outer), Balance, Coordination, Confidence, Nutrition, Stamina, Life Skills, Engagement, Social Learning and Communication.

With my background I have had numerous conversations and requests for me to be a role model and I am very very proud to be an Ambassador for my home city of Birmingham.

I have developed the SLAMH program to help others to become better citizens in their community

and to turn away from negative pathways and be more confident in their choices.

If you think you might benefit from a SLAMH session or you know someone whom you think would do so, then please drop me a

line on my website www.bigdave. online and I will respond back to you.

If there is a significant number of people who do so I will look to run a session especially for the readers of the Phoenix Newspaper

somewhere in Birmingham after the lockdown is removed.

Meanwhile if the demand is there, I am willing to run a series of online sessions for people to follow in their own homes.

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Take That Musical Set For The Big Screen

T

he hits of recordbreaking boy band, Take That, are set to be used in a new film which is about a fictional boy band and their hordes of adoring fans.

The movie, ‘Great Days’, will be based on the stage musical ‘The Band’, about a group of women who get back together to see their favourite band or the first time after 25 years.

The film adaptation follows the success of music-based movies such as Mama Mia, Bohemian Rhapsody and Rocketman.

Sixteen of the group’s hits were used in the stage version, and they are writing a new song exclusively for the film.

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FRANK TURNER

F

rank Turner & The Sleeping Souls have released their new album, ‘Live In Newcastle’, on April 24, 2020 via Xtra Mile Recordings/ Polydor Records.

Captured at O2 City Hall Newcastle last November, the 20 track live recording was made during Turner’s 2019 headline tour in support of his latest studio album release, ‘No Man’s Land’, his fourth consecutive UK Top 3 album to date.

Details for ‘Live In Newcastle’ arrive amidst Turner’s current #IndependentVenueLove series of virtual fundraisers gigs, created to provide support to the UK’s independent music venues during the current

coronavirus crisis.

The series has already helped to raise enough funds to save Southampton’s Joiners Arms from closure, and has also provided over £10,000 in donations for London’s beloved Nambucca venue.

Having been forced to cancel his own recent 2020 tour dates due to coronavirus, Frank marked what would have been the Nottingham gig by hosting a viewing party for his ‘Show 2000 - Nottingham Rock City - 15/12/2016’ DVD re-lease, filmed at his 2000th solo show four years ago.

Over 6,000 fans tuned into his Youtube channel for the screening and live Q&A with Frank.

0208 865 1922 (London)