The Phoenix – September 2016
Page 15
SPECIAL STREET CRED SUPPLEMENT IN THE PHOENIX NEWSPAPER
SEPTEMBER 2016
www.streetcredmagazine.com
Michael Jackson 58th Birthday 29/08/58 - 25/06/09
Shana Mangatal mark dwayne interviews Michael Jackson’s secret lover
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ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
The Phoenix – September 2016
www.streetcredmagazine.com
TV - Online - MAGAZINE /markdwayne
@StreetCredMag
M
ark Dwayne interviews the man behind Craig David’s new music.
MD: Just want to say thank you for getting Craig to be himself its what we have all been waiting for. How does it feel knowing that youve had massive input in return of a UK Legend? WN: It feels amazing tbh. I’m a massive crib fan, like HUGE got all his albums and was a big inspiration to me musically, so to know I’ve had an input in his return is pretty crazy really. If you would of said this 10 yrs ago you’d be working with Craig and have a Top 10 hit I’d be like yeh whatever! MD: How did you meet Craig David? Is this the first star you have produced? WN: I met him through Marvin Humes (ex-JLS). I worked with Marvin on a house project called ‘LuvBug’ and he asked Mraig to do a feature, Craig said yes and Marvin phoned me and said you wanna do a sessions with Craig - I was like erm… Yes! Ive produced for a few ‘stars’ including Wretch32, JLS, Daley, Jessie J, Angel haze, Roll Deep, and Krept & Konan. MD: Your music production is crazy, when i hear it i can tell its by someone who loves the music
www.streetcredmagazine.com and is probably a raver themself. Do you go out much and keep intouch with the scene? WN: Thanks man. Yeh I DJ and just been so busy in the studio but I’m about to hit the club scene a lot more now with my own ‘White N3rd’ project! So gonna be sick
but I make rap/RnB/house/trap I make anything, as long as I’m feeling the vibe I’m down!!!
MD:.Which other artists would you like to ressurect? WN: I wouldn’t say i resurrected Craig, to me he was just chilling, but I would love to bring back George Michael. I’m a massive fan and his voice is so sick, his vocal could work on anything from RnB to garage to house. Thats someone I’m defo gonna aim to work with, watch this space... MD: So Manchester is on the map again. What was it like growing up there? WN: Yeh Manchester is a wicked place, pretty multi cultural. I grew up on a back street inbetween a council estate and a posher bit with big house separated by our road. I spent most of the time near the estate as most of my mates were there, but I got to see different perspectives of people/life looking back at it now. MD: Tell me some of the Manchester talents out there you feel deserve recognition as I know there are so many thats unheard? Interesting one. If I’m honest
White n3rd theres probably loads but I spent most of my time in London I’m not really in the scene anymore like that BUT theres one dope girl from Chester called Olivia Louise. She’s really cool and can sing on grime to acoustic stuff, she’s pretty dope! One to look out for.
everyone that heard my music BUT didn’t know I was white were like ‘Whoa I thought you would be black lol’ I used to make a lot of trap/rap music, thought you know what lets have fun with it man I’m white and a bit of a nerd, fuck it ‘White N3rd’ will do lol!
MD: How did the name White N3rd come about? Pretty simple really I lived in the Caribbean/US for a while and
MD: What other music do you produce as I hear you dont just do Garage? No, I started off making Garage
MD: What was it like being in the studio with Craig and Big Narstie? I think its amazing how its Southampton London and Manchester in one tune..defo shows unity and not everything just comes from London. WN: Haha.. Nartsies a legend man just a wicked guy great vibe and person! He wrote his rap in like 20 minutes having his vape pen thing lol. He was like what do you think of this to me and Craig He spat it and we was like “thats sick!” Recorded him in like 10 minutes done! Craig is phenomenal in the studio like literally I can get one take off him and its perfect, I’ve never worked with anyone like him on that level, one time he actually freestyled a whole section to a song and it was crazy!! Too much talent, he’s one of the best to do it out of the UK I would even say one of the best RnB artists period! MD: Did you help Craig find the sound he needed to bring this year? WN: I would say yeah I think I helped him find himself again if that makes sense. Just a fan telling him the truth. I said ‘we need them smooth double time rap/singing flows over guitars and garage man, no-one does it like you NO-
BIRMINGHAM O2 ACADEMY
September 02 LANY 03 THE SOUTHMARTINS 06 Eleanor Friedberger 09 Roman vs Fousey 10 Alternative & Burlesque MegaFair 10 Elvana - The World’s Finest Elvis Fronted Tribute to Nirvana 18 Gutterdämmerung 21-23 McFly: Anthology Tour 2016 24 XVII 25 Us The Duo 27 30
O2 INSTITUTE
Kaiser Chiefs return with new single, album and UK tour
F
resh from a run of sold-out UK shows and headlining at V Festival, Kaiser Chiefs announced a brand new single ‘Hole In My Soul’ and their first arena tour in two years in support of the forthcoming album Stay Together.
As the best renowned crowd-pleasing act in the UK, the band have spent the Summer playing at sold out venues from Sao Paolo to Delamere Forest, to Ibiza and Colombia, to Cornwall and beyond. As well as performing all their hits the band have been preview-
To Advertise
ing songs from their sixth album Stay Together including their latest single ‘Parachute’ and the brand new single ‘Hole In My Soul’ which have both become firm fan favourites. Hole In My Soul was produced by Brian Higgins (Xenomania, Girls Aloud, Pet Shop Boys, New Order) and mixed by Serban Ghenea (The Weeknd, Rihanna, Beck, Taylor Swift, Justin Timberlake). The band will be playing Birmingham’s Barclaycard Arena on the 25th February 2017.
September 08 Sticky Fingers 09 Lucie Silvas 10 The Surrenders 12 The Sherlocks 16 Noah Guthrie 19 Blue October - The Home Tour 19 Dan + Shay 20 Sundara Karma 23 Blossoms 24 Rat Boy 26 Watsky 28 Beth Orton 28 67 30 Ren Harvieu & Romeo (The Magic Numbers)
BARCLAYCARD ARENA
September 03 The King Is Back Ben Portsmouth is Elvis 24 A R Rahman
ONE and people are dying to hear you do it bro, cmon!!’ He was so ready for it though! He killed it he was like yeah man gimme those baselines then lets go, born to do it style!!! MD: What kind of opportunities have come your way since working with Craig David WN: Well I’ve just got a single out with ministry of sound now because of working with Craig, as they came to watch his guy and I was DJ’ing before his performance and dropped one of my tracks. The Ministry AnR loved it emailed my manager saying ‘what was that song’ then was like ‘I wanna sign it’ lol.. crazy!! I’ve also been working on some stuff for Cheryl with Craig too!! MD: So tell me about the Craig David Album is it fire? WN: What I’ve heard is sick!! I’ve not heard all of it but he’s back thats all I’m saying!!! lol MD: Mate Craig David is my favourite artist and for me this is a massive opportunity to talk to someone that has worked with the great. I wish you all the best in your career and I am definately looking forward to more White N3rd material. WN: Thx u bro, loved your questions man! Appreciate you interviewing me!! Keep me posted!
TOWN HALL & SYMPHONY HALL
l Us The Duo performing at the O2 Academy in Birmingham on the 25th September
GENTING ARENA
September 05 The Who 11-13 BPM | PRO 2016 - DJ & Studio Event 17 Asha Bhosle
NEC
September 10-11 Birmingham CRUISE Show 11-13 BPM | Pro 22-25 EGX 2016 22-25 The Cycle Show 23-25 A Place in the Sun Live 30-Oct 02 HeavyCon 30-Oct 01 National Franchise Exhibition 30-Oct 02 The National Wedding Show
September 03 Kaifi Aur Main (SH) 04 60 Years of Bollywood: A Live Musical Journey (TH) 07 Roy Harper (SH) 10 164th British Open Brass Band Championship (SH) 10 STICK MAN 11 Brass Band Gala Concert (SH) 15 An Evening with AGGERS & TUFFERS (SH) 16 The Godfather (SH) 18 SUE PERKINS LIVE! in SPECTACLES (SH) 19 University College Birmingham Awards Congregation (SH) 20 Daniel O’Donnell (SH) 21 Birmingham Jazz Orchestra (SH) 29 Beethoven’s Fourth (SH)
SLADE ROOMS, WOLVERHAMPTON
September 03 Kanyini Presents Astralasia Plus Flux Natura 10 ACDC UK and Sack Sabbath 13 Black Peaks & Heck 14 Jonathan Pie: Live! 15 Gary Delaney 17 King Goat 18 Charles Ross ‘One Man Star Wars Trilogy’ 23 Popes of Chillitown 29 Toseland 30 Psychostick & Green Jelly
0121 339 5885 or 0208 865 1922
The Phoenix – September 2016
www.streetcredmagazine.com
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ENTERTAINMENT
World Exclusive
The Woman Who Had A Secret Romance With Michael Jackson
S
hana Mangatal has released a detailed book titled Michael And Me that reveals the man not the superstar he was. Street Cred Magazine caught up with her to get the inside story. As Michael’s receptionist who landed her dreamjob became his closest friend now shares their life in her own words in her newly published book titled Michael and Me. The relationship went on for years, and now Shana wants you to know the side that Michael wouldn’t show. All is revealed in detail in her first book that has got the world talking MD: Hi Shana just want to say thanks for this important interview. I see that you was Michaels Ex-Girlfriend and you are releasing a book about your time together. Why do you think it is important to do this? SM: Now, more than ever, there are so many crazy and untrue stories about Michael. His legacy doesn’t deserve to be tarnished like this. It seems like he’s becoming almost mythical, as if he was never a real human being. It’s important that his fans and the public see him as he really was..a normal man, who was NOT “Wacko Jacko”, but a kind and loving guy who was not crazy or weird. My book will show him in a different light, from my perspective…a girl who fell in love with him. MD: What are your most memorable times with Michael? SM: Every moment with him was memorable
coms and modelled as well. Michael knew I wanted to be an actress so he put me in two of his short films, “Is This Scary” (which was never released) and “Ghosts”. I definitely would’ve married Michael. I loved him!
MD: What did he like about you most? SM: He liked that I was quiet and shy and nice. MD: You stood with him throughout the trial how did that draining situation affect you? SM: The 1993 allegations and the 2005 trial were both draining. 1993 may have been even worse because I was talking to Michael almost every day then and nothing like that had ever happened to him before. It was a shock to us all. A terrible and stressful time for everyone involved. MD: What are you best Michael songs and why? :) SM: I love Michael’s sexy songs, especially Give In To Me and Dirty Diana. I love the hard rock mixed with his powerful voice and lyrics that tell a story. MD: How did you hide the relationship so well? Where did you spend time with him? Did you ever have a paparazzi moment? SM: We were only together in private and in work situations, so it wasn’t too hard. TMZ and things like that didn’t exist back then, so it was a little easier to not be noticed.
MD: After This Is It I heard that he wanted to go into movies a lot more and actually chill out is this true? SM: He had been wanting to focus only on movies for a very long time. If he had it his way, that’s all he would be doing. He wasn’t really interested in touring or recording regular albums any more. MD: You’re getting a lot of media attention at the moment, how are you coping with it? SM: It’s been interesting. My social media is filled with supporters as well as some fans who aren’t so nice. It’s difficult reading negativity, so I try to focus and only give attention to positive and supportive people.
MD: Knowing the most amazing man in the world you must have seen the unbelievable. What’s the most memorable time you had with him that stands out? SM: I loved seeing how other people reacted to him. I’ve seen tough, hardened thug types become like nervous, teenage girls around him. No one was immune to his charms. Watching him work and dance up close was also something I’ll never forget. He was more amazing in real life than he was in his music videos, if that’s possible.
MD: How long did you date Michael for and did you ever fall out? SM: The whole story is in the book! MD: I haven't met the man but I can feel his spirit from a TV screen. How was he to be around did he have that magic for real? SM: He truly was magical. He made you feel so good just to be around him. He was nice, kind and generous to everyone. No one will ever compare. MD: Everyone must ask this even though its pathetic but for the record were you both intimate? If so even this information should be out to put things straight! The answer is in the book! :-)
1/4 Ad
MD: Would you say you knew him more than anyone else? SM: I don’t think anyone can say that. He showed different people different sides of himself. Most of his friends felt they knew him best, but no one knew everything. MD: Tell me bit about your career. I see you are in the industry yourself and even featured in Michaels Video. Are you looking to pursue career in modelling/music because you are stunning? I don't understand why Michael didn't marry you! Would you have? SM: Thank you! I started my career working for Michael’s manager. So I’ve worked in music management most of my career, but I’ve also acted in various sit-
Send in your stories to newsdesk@thephoenixnewspaper.com
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ENTERTAINMENT
The Phoenix – September 2016
www.streetcredmagazine.com
Afro Caribbean Entertainment Committee invites you to a
Black History Night of Celebration Food & Entertainment Open mic session
Finger buffet, Light Refreshment & Licensed bar
Music by resident DJ DRB
Dress to Impress
Traditional Costume African, Caribbean, Asian
5 £ 29th October 2016 Entry
The Shawshank Redemption comes to Wolverhampton
C
oming to Wolverhampton Grand Theatre from Tuesday 27th September to Saturday 1st October 2016 is the 2016 UK Tour of The Shawshank Redemption. Starring Paul Nicholls, Jack Ellis and Ben Onwukwe, and directed by awards-winning Broadway director David Esbjornson, the acclaimed production is adapted from Stephen King’s novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption which was made into the 1994 Oscar Award winning film The Shawshank Redemption. The story follows Andy Dufresne, a banker handed a double l Paul Nicholls will play Andy Dufresne
Start 7pm till late Telephone Ina on
07853 364 154
or Email : ina.a.wilkinson@gmail.com
West Bromwich African Caribbean Resource Centre Thomas Street, West Bromwich, B70 6LY
l Jack Ellis will play Warden Stammas
l Ben Onwukwe will play Red
life sentence for the brutal murder of his wife and her lover, who finds himself incarcerated in the notorious Shawshank penitentiary. Unflinching in his protests of innocence, Andy strikes up an unlikely friendship with the prison fixer Red, and things take a slight turn for the better. However, when Warden Stammas decides to bully Andy into subservience and exploit his talents for accountancy, a desperate plan is quietly hatched… The play examines desperation, injustice, friendship and hope behind the claustrophobic bars of a maximum security facility. The movie starred Tim Robbins as Andy Dufresne and Morgan Freeman as Ellis ‘Red’ Redding and was nominated for seven Academy Awards including Best Picture, Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Actor for Freeman.
The Phoenix – September 2016
www.streetcredmagazine.com
Shyam and chill
I
n helping to give 15-17 year olds a boost in life, the National Citizen Service is teaching life skills and preparing them for life in the ‘real world.’ The three-week course about challenging yourself, learning new skills, and living and working in a team a variety of outdoor activities including rock climbing and canoeing was undertook, as well as life skills such as cooking, and creating and running a campaign for social action. The group took a 3-and-a-half hour journey to North Wales, to the Arthog Outdoor Education Centre. Early morning activities included bonding over raft building before surfing during the day - the first time for many. The group was then dropped off in the middle of nowhere with a map for an orienteering challenge, following directions back to the centre, before some free time for table tennis. The week continued with a group trek through an abandoned ‘scary-looking’ mine where everyone helped to get through -
ing to actually complete the campaign. The third week had a sports day; with dodge ball, three legged and wheelbarrow races, putting a glass of water in a bucket without dropping water and other events. The best part of the day being the ‘end game’- a water fight to cool everyone down. The following day meant collecting all that was needed for the campaign and getting it ready before returning to Harborne to help out with their Caribbean themed day, where there was limbo dancing, singing, Caribbean food and other entertainment. The final day was ‘campaign day’ where the group - now in Birmingham city centre - put up a
stall, in Victoria Square, to make the general public aware of autism communication by way of handing out pens with web-links, as well as handing out blue ribbons which represented the colour of autism.
NCS Memories and Experiences
It was an overall enjoyable time at the National Citizen Service, and you’re guaranteed to be more confident as a person as it showed that it doesn’t matter what you look like and to never judge – or be judged – treat and be treated equally. A few friends have written a few words about their experience; Overall NCS was the best thing that’s ever happened to me in my entire life. It has created so many options for me to take in the future. NCS is an unforgettable experience. You meet the most amazing people ever, and you make lots of friends and I would definitely recommend anyone who is thinking of going to NCS (Liam).
NCS was a challenge. Meeting new people, doing activities I have never done before and being to places I have never been to before, however the people were genuine. The atmosphere was amazing. The journey itself was challenging the first week it was physically challenging and the second week was mentally challenging. By the last week everyone was comfortable and began to miss the whole experience as it came to an end. I would recommend NCS to anyone. It’s a great experience - no matter who you are or what you look like (Darren). My experience of NCS was really good as I managed to learn a lot of new things. I learnt how to be confident and how to overcome obstacles in life that I was not able to do before. I personally recommended NCS to people my age because it makes you a better person and it gives you a boost in confidence. NCS is the best thing that has ever happened to me. Take the challenge and make some great memories (Kaz).
A
fter six years, the internationally acclaimed musical mega star, Babby Maan returns to the UK to perform at the Barclaycard Arena in Birmingham. Guaranteed to leave audiences breathless, the show at the Barclaycard Arena is one of only two dates set for the UK. Alongside his latest songs, including Chori Chori and Neendran, the ‘World’s Best Indian Male Artist’ will perform a mix of his old school classics with a full live band. Speaking about his return, Maan
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ENTERTAINMENT
National Citizen Service in pitch black – before a bonding session, overnight, while sat in a circle debating views on different scenarios regarding responsibilities, empathy and more. Week one finished with gorge walking; walking up rocks in a waterfall - one of the hardest but most enjoyable activities of the week and ideal for coming out of your ‘shell’ and help each other while having fun. This brought the group together and made it more of a family. Week two was about putting on a showcase, for parents and NCS staff. The group performed a musical piece facilitated by mentor, Chip, who taught the basics of drumming, and samba drums. Assigned to the Harborne Day Centre organisation, which helps people with Down Syndrome, Autism and more, the team volunteered and performed, as practice for their showcase. The group prepared a campaign to deliver to a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style panel to bid for £50 of fund-
said: "I'm really excited to be coming back to the UK; it’s been a long time, but l promise my UK fans that Babbu is back, bigger than ever and ready to rock Birmingham!” “I receive messages every day from my UK fans showing their support, and now l will reply to your messages to show you how much they mean via my music! I look forward to meeting and seeing you all soon."
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ENTERTAINMENT
The Phoenix – September 2016
www.streetcredmagazine.com
Grand Designs Live Returns to the NEC
G
rand Designs Live, proudly sponsored by Anglian Home Improvements, is set to return to Birmingham from 1923 October 2016. The event promises to break down conventional limitations to home building and offers visitors a chance to view the latest trends and unseen products in self-build, from kitchens to gardens and everything in-between. With 500 exhibitors making their way to the NEC, there is
something for everyone across the six different sectors on show covering build, kitchens, bathrooms, technology, gardens and interiors. Once again, Kevin McCloud, design guru and presenter of the Channel 4 TV series, will be hosting the five-day run of the design exhibition. Bringing his well renowned expertise and distinctive style and approach to the show, Grand Designs is set to be as entertaining as it is informative. Tickets are now available
Red Hot Chili Peppers
G
r a m m y Aw a r d - w i n n i n g Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees, Red Hot Chili Peppers announced that they are to return to the UK in December for their first UK tour in 5 years. With the announcement coming ahead of headlining the Leeds and Reading Festivals, the tour will be in sup-
port of their new album, The Getaway, which is their 11th studio album. Red Hot Chili Peppers have spent the summer performing at a variety of music festivals around the world, including headlining Lollapalooza in Chicago, T In The Park in Scotland, and Fuji Rock in Japan. Supporting the band across their UK tour will be Japanese
sensation BABYMETAL. The J-pop teen metallers have taken the world by storm since their formation in 2010. Their latest album METAL RESISTANCE peaked at number fifteen on the UK Albums Chart, the highest position reached by a Japanese band. Red Hot Chili Peppers will hit the Genting Arena in Birmingham on the 10th and 11th December 2016.
l McNeice has been revealed as the star of the film The House of Screaming Death
Leading Actor Revealed In Movie Filmed At Manor House
T
he star of the film The House of Screaming Death filmed in part at the Manor House at West Bromwich has been revealed as top actor Ian McNeice. Ian, who has starred in Doctor Who, When Nature Calls and Doc Martin, plays the role of The Architect, a mysterious figure at the centre of the film.
The film, an anthology horror feature which draws from the love of the old Hammer Horror pictures from the 1960-70s, was filmed last year and this spring at the 12th century Manor House. Set in the mysterious Bray Manor one eerie night, a mysterious figure known only as The Architect (Ian McNcNeice), is ready to tell four tales of terror to select
guests he has with him. Stories that dwell on ghosts, witches, vampires and demonic terrors. The website link is www.screamingdeath.co.uk which gives people lots of information on the stories (without spoiling it all). The Walsall-based film-makers from Lightbeam Productions say that Ian is “amazing and very supportive” and it was great to get him for the role. Sandwell’s visitor services officer at the Manor House Museum, Rachel Kinsella said: “I have seen a sneek peek of clips from the film and it looks brilliant. “The Manor House looks so eerie – I cannot wait to see the finished production.”
The Phoenix – September 2016
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www.streetcredmagazine.com
ENTERTAINMENT
He was Everything
W
hen Michael Jackson died I felt like I lost one of my closest family members seriously. This was a man I truly used to love while I was growing up, he was my role model and everything I wanted to be. I copied all of his dance moves, sang like him and performed in the classic Smooth Criminal and Black and White outfits. Since I saw Thriller I was hooked onto him and followed everything he did. When he was in pain and going through his trials and tribulations I felt it and any Michael supporter would feel the way I feel he had that impact on us. We love Michael Jackson because he was genuine loving humanitarian that really cared about his fans like no other star. MJ was a true icon that even had celebrities star struck, the greatest of the greatest entertainers were humbled in his presence. This man had one message and that was love. You will never see another being that will make the impact on this earth like MJ did. They say we are here for a time and we have a mission and I believe that Michael fulfilled his. He knew his purpose was to bring people together through music and try and end racism as much as possible. He has left his mark as the worlds biggest entertainer that ever lived. I
am glad that I got to see him in concert in 1997 - Wembley Stadium for the History Tour - it was the best time of my life, watching the man I idolized. No-one has done it like this guy he is like a living superhero with an unforgettable brand the glitter socks, trilby and gloves, with all of his songs having a dress theme and dance moves to remember. Michael would do the simplest of moves like just pointing and it would be iconic. Everything he did people paid attention and up to this day we all still love MJ and sing his songs which is what he wanted. I always wanted to meet him but sadly that didn’t happen and my interview with Shana Mangatal, his secret lover, was the closest I could get to the man. This remarkable woman has released a book about her life with Michael and let me tell you
it’s the most amazing read and a true look at the man. I thank her for releasing this information and giving me the world exclusive interview. MJ toys, books, trainers (LA Gear), comics, stickers, computer games, movies, cartoons, you name it Michael did it all and was the first to do most and if he wasn’t the first he made sure he did it the best! He was everything! Yes Michael you will always be my inspiration and I will always be that guy promoting your legacy. All of your songs had a message and made us feel good. You showed us that you can be all you can be and more. I thank you for being apart of my life. Mark Dwayne
My Favourite MJ Songs Thriller , Human Nature , I Cant Help It, Another Part Of Me, Pretty Young Thing, Rock With You, Will You be There, What More Can I Give, Who Is It
Best MJ Video Smooth Criminal
Best MJ style Bad
Michael Jackson’s 58th Birthday 29/08/58 - 25/06/09
London Living
Notting Hill Carnival a Bank Holiday treat
T
here is only one place to be in the summer of 2016 on a bank holiday in London and that’s the Notting Hill Carnival, running since 1966, this year was carnival’s 50th year running to be celebrated in style by all. London's biggest street festival, representing London's most multicultural gathering of party people in one place in Notting Hill. The celebrations were spread over two days and were blessed with the best of British weather ensuring a massive turn out. London’s biggest street party highlighting the best of music culture boasted 38 sound systems and 60 bands through the streets, including the best of range of music styles and astounding stage performances, overwhelmed with spectacular celebrations. People from all cultures were
dancing, expressing the freedom of body language through music vibes heard for miles across London. The social gathering of carnival is for the love of music, community, dance, culture and food celebrated on London’s streets . With the treat of the best visual feast of sexy women and men dressed in the most spectacular costumes to give you the carnival feeling, and floats parading down the high street and packed streets of music lovers, the carnival vibe is like no other for the love of music. London’s musical artists gathered in united global culture in the Notting Hill Carnival with legendary King Tubby's sound system, which is London’s oldest sound system. The list is endless of passionate dedicated sound systems brought
F to carnival for the love of music including Reggae, disco, drum n bass, dub, garage, Jamaican and African vibes and much more Here’s to an amazing experience at Notting Hill Carnival’s 50th year, can’t wait to see what the next 50 years will bring!
resh from his sudden promotion to headline act at this years JamFest, Iam Malakhi has been hard at work promoting his latest song, I Alone. Produced by renowned label Music Tower Production, the track has gained both local and international attention. A revolutionary spirit whose message of peace, unity, justice and love is delivered through his handcrafted lyrics, he draws from experiences in his person life, nature and life itself. His name, meaning “Messenger of God” is a name rooted deeply in his Rastafarian convictions. “I do music for the people, because
From soul-line to headline act I'm for the people and if I can't do that then my life is worth nothing, I am Malakhi and I'm the messenger. Yes, I am an entertainer, I take what I do seriously I am not in to the gimmicks or the circus acts.” Jamaican-born Iam Malakhi, christened Densil Gayle, grew up in the parish of Westmoreland, where music chose him from an early age. Learning the keyboard and later the bass, he honed his skill in a professional backing band before working beside Oniel Mcdove in 2012, who was the first
to record him. Further cementing his career in the business is his distinct commanding tone & witty lyrical style. His soulful silky voice was improved by performing at various weddings and events thus enhancing his musical dynamics and range. Iam Malakhi sets out to make a difference in people’s life and ultimately change the world with his music. His burning Philosophy in life remains “I alone can make I bless I control my destiny.”
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ENTERTAINMENT
The Phoenix – September 2016
www.streetcredmagazine.com
Eagerly anticipated Brit Asia TV World Music Awards is BACK!
T
he Worldwide Asian Music stage is ready for this massive event as it returns to Birmingham to showcase and celebrate the very best in Asian music with groundbreaking performances never seen before! This breathtaking November event, at the Barclaycard Arena Birmingham, celebrates the very best of British Asian Music from across the globe and features a
spectacular variety of performances and appearances from the biggest names in the industry. Now in its seventh successive year, the Brit Asia TV World Music Awards 2016 ceremony looks set to be the best yet with eight unique, live performances and over 1000 A-list celebrities attending. Artists and music producers will be nominated for a total of 14 award categories, including Best
Breakthrough Act, Best Video, Best Album and the Lifetime Achievement Award! Each category will be presented by some of the most famous faces on the British Asian celebrity scene.
F
rozen, the Academy Award-winning tale comes to arenas up and down the country, with the tale told live for the first time. The 34th Disney On Ice spectacular by Feld Entertainment, Inc, bring favourite musical masterpieces inluding “Let it Go,” “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” and “Fixer Upper.” “In our more than 30 years of producing Disney On Ice shows, Feld Entertainment has been waiting for a film like this,” says producer Nicole Feld. “While it might seem obvious that Frozen is well suited for the ice, this Disney On Ice production will touch audiences emotionally through innovative show elements and world class skating.” To create a completely immersive
The Phoenix – September 2016
www.streetcredmagazine.com
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ENTERTAINMENT
Lovers Rock Monologues
L l
Janet Kay, Carroll Thompson and Victor Romero Evans
overs Rock icons Janet Kay, Carroll Thompson and Victor Romero Evans come together to celebrate its golden years. The Lovers Rock Monologue fuses timeless music and theatrical storytelling, giving the audience a humorous and realistic account of the Lover’s Rock lifestyle. Born in London, Lovers Rock defined a generation in
experience for the audience, the set design will encompass the space from the ice surface up through the air, drawing everyone into the story and closer to the characters. Families will feel that they are trekking up to the North Mountains with Anna, Kristoff and Sven, and they will tangibly experience the storm inside Elsa. Elsa’s magic will be enhanced by state-of-the art special effects while her emotions will be conveyed through powerful skating. Disney On Ice presents Frozen is appearing across the UK from 13th October to 30th December visiting Manchester, Newcastle, Birmingham, Nottingham, Glasgow, Liverpool, Aberdeen, Sheffield and London. For a complete list of tour dates, visit the Disney On Ice website at http://www.disneyonice.co.uk
the late ‘70s and ‘80s and is a huge influential sub-genre of reggae. It gave women a voice in the traditionally male-dominated realm of Reggae. Lovers Rock was also an integral part of Black British identity during a politically and socially unstable time. The trio of icons will be performing at The Rep Theatre on Saturday 22nd October 2016
l
The REP Theatre in Birmingham
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BIG SCREEN
www.streetcredmagazine.com
BIGScreen REVIEW
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till reeling from the loss of her mother, medical student Nancy Adams (Blake Lively) travels to a secluded beach for some much-needed solace. Despite the danger of surfing alone, Nancy decides to soak up the sun and hit the waves. Unfortunately for her, she is not alone. When a great white shark at-
The Phoenix – September 2016
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tacks, she is forced to swim to a giant rock for safety. Left injured, alone and stranded hundreds yards from shore, Nancy must fight for her life as the relentless predator stalks the water around her. Jaume Collet-Serra, director of two of the most underrated horror movies in recent memory, House of Wax (2005) an Orphan (2009), returns to the genre that helped
put his name on the map with yet another fantastic and surprisingly beautiful horror movie. His skills in finding beauty in the most gruesome and desperate situations has to be commended. He’s never afraid to provide a little respite from the fear with some glorious scenery and vivid colours and The Shallows is no exception. His use of wide-angle, birdseye-view shots really give weight to Nancy’s plight and puts us right there in the ocean with her; stranded and alone. While she’s not far from the shore, Collet-Serra truly makes it feel like she’s light-years away from anything, with a terrifying beast tracking her every move. The ingenious idea of placing her on a rock not much bigger than herself for the vast majority of the movie is inspired, as the audience are forced to watch her lie inches from death for much of it’s lean 86-minute runtime. That’s another thing; in a summer full of unnecessarily overstuffed blockbusters that hover somewhere between two and three hours long, it is refreshing to get a movie so simple and so gloriously short, yet never feels like it’s rushing. It’s exactly as long as it needs to be and that
The Shallows is not only a very good quality for a movie to have, but it’s also a very rare one. Collet-Serra has once again proven himself a filmmaker perfectly at home in the horror genre and we can only hope he continues to return to it. The cinematography from Collet-Serra’s regular collaborator Flavio Martinez Labiano is nothing short of breathtaking. He captures the ocean, the beach and the surrounding mountains with such clarity and purpose that one could watch this entire movie without sound and still enjoy it on a purely visual level, which is a compliment one can rarely give to a genre picture such as this. In terms of performances, there really is only one person to talk about as she is the only character in the movie with any significant screen time and that person is the wonderful Blake Lively. She single-handedly has to carry this movie for a huge portion of its runtime, meaning the success or failure of this picture rests heavily on her shoulders…and she absolutely nails it. She captures the very essence of a person who is running away from something; an innocent, somewhat naive young woman
with a rebellious, almost dangerous sense of adventure trying to do whatever she can to escape the painful realities of her life. We instantly connect with her, as her story is one we can all relate to on some level and when things begin to go wrong, we are immediately hooked. From the moment she sets foot in the water, we know something isn’t quite right. We are quickly overcome with a sense of impending doom and Collet-Serra knows exactly how to capitalise on it - he makes us wait. The Shallows is an excruciatingly patient movie and Collet-Serra never feels like he has to dive headfirst into the action. The Shallows feels like getting into a bitterly cold ocean - you start by putting your toes in, then slowly walk deeper and deeper as each part of your body gets used to the icy bite of the water. Eventually, you’re finally deep enough to completely submerge yourself in the water and that’s exactly how it feels watching The Shallows. It creeps along at a steady pace, introducing us to the various characters and locations and then suddenly…boom!
Bursts into azeroth with a bang
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estruction rains down upon Azeroth. Demons of the Burning Legion surge into the realm, heralding the return of the dark titan Sargeras, Ravager of Worlds. As doom comes for the Alliance and the Horde, Azeroth’s heroes
must seek salvation among the ruins of the Broken Isles, doomed center of ancient night elf civilization and birthplace of myths dating back to the world’s creation. There, they’ll harness legendary and forbidden powers to hunt unspeakable nightmares and unstoppable fel armies—and save their
Collet-Serra forces us to take the plunge. From the moment the proverbial hits the fan, the action is visceral and relentless, and perhaps worst of all, claustrophobic. Collet-Serra and Fabiano do a fantastic job in introducing us to the wide expanse of the ocean and then confining the action to a 200yard radius. It’s suffocating, in the best possible way a movie like this can be. The Shallows is arguably the best killer shark movie since Steven Spielberg’s untouchable classic JAWS (1975) and while it’s still far, far away from ever reaching the dizzying heights of Spielberg’s masterpiece, it comes a lot closer than the vast majority of other shark-thrillers. The Shallows is quite simply one of the best, most efficiently constructed B-movies in recent memory and serves as the perfect pallet cleanser after a summer full of derivative and somewhat disappointing blockbusters. Oh and there’s also a cute little injured seagull that befriends Blake Lively; a seagull she adorably and brilliantly names Steven Seagull. If that isn’t enough to sell the movie to you, nothing is. world from falling under an endless burning shadow. World of Warcraft: Legion is the sinister sixth expansion to Blizzard Entertainment’s acclaimed massively multiplayer online role-playing game. In the face of hopeless odds, Azeroth’s champions must summon the strength to wield fabled Artifacts, powerful weapons of lore that hold the potential to bring down the Legion. They’ll also strike an infernal pact with the Demon Hunters of the Illidari, an ancient elven order of fel-tainted assassins . . . and accursed followers of the infamous Illidan the Betrayer. World of Warcraft: Legion went live on August 30th, and is available now on the Blizzard Store as well as many other online and physical retailers for approximately £35 for the standard edition, or £50 for the Digital Deluxe edition.
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JamFest-ering
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he 6th August 2016 brought with it a beautiful day full of sunshine and excitement, but unfortunately for the gathered masses at Handsworth Park, what it did not bring with it was the headline act for the Jamaican Independence Day celebration, Luciano. With confusion already surrounding the event, which initially showcased Freddie McGregor as the headline act of the Jamaica Independence Celebration Village’s outdoor JamFest UK, the announcement came very late in the day, with posters stating “Please be advised that the advertised artiste ‘Luciano’ will not be performing at this event as originally planned, as he missed his flight to the United Kingdom,” being placed at the entrance of the park on the day. Although Freddie’s name was removed from the official flyer on the promotors Facebook page on July 22nd, two weeks before the event, and replaced with the updated Luciano flyers, the original Freddie McGregor flyers were still being circulated by the masses up until the day. “For those patrons who have purchased pre-paid tickets, please note that we are willing to offer a full refund should they no longer wish to attend the event,” said Terence Wal-
len, director of social responsibility at Impact Solutions Group, on behalf of Jamaica Independence Village Committee (JIVC) in response to the announcement that Luciano would not be performing. “The same principle will apply for all stall holders attending.” The appointing of Luciano as headline act for the event came as a surprise to many, especially following his recent appearance at Reggae Culturefest 2016 on Stratford Road in Birmingham, which was sadly very poorly attended. Despite the headline act dropping out and all other acts being moved up a slot on the bill, moving I Am Malakhi to headliner, the crowds being charged on the door were still being charged full price for entry. Surely without the headline act, there could have, and indeed should have been a discount for entry to the park, as a show of good will to the communities in attendance? This type of situation is no good for the promotors, and more importantly for the artist. When an artist does not show for an event, the credibility of that artist is put into question. It has been rumoured that Freddie McGregor respectfully declined the headline position due to a dispute over pay before Luciano was then
advertised as the headline act. This should not be allowed to happen to any credible artist out there, in particular, Freddie McGregor, who headlined the Jamaica In The Square festivities back in 2012, when the turnout was phenomenal. Festivals like Simmer Down have for years put on a brilliant show without issues with headline acts dropping out or changing at the last minute, and the recent Shard Fest, despite a lower than anticipated attendance, brought a whole host of national and international artists to the city. Since Luciano’s no show, his management has released an apology from the star, “I extend my sincerest apologies to the event organizers and especially the fans, who wanted to see me last Saturday and Sunday in the UK,” the singer said “I really wanted to be with you, my absence was for reasons outside of my control,” continued the artiste born Jepther McClymont. Sadly this is an occurrence that keeps repeating itself at these kind of events up and down the country, time and time again, and whether the truth is being spoken by all parties or not, every time it is a disservice and disrespect to the fans that wanted to see the artists involved.
ENTERTAINMENT
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FASHION
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Record number of entrants for Midlands Fashion Awards 2016
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idlands Fashion Awards (MFA) 2016 have announced a record number of entrants to this year’s Awards with entrants coming from as far afield as Italy, New York, Poland, India and more close to home from Birmingham, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire and more around the region. Whittled down from hundreds of hopefuls, the finalists have been announced and will be taking to the stage at the glittering catwalk event, which is to be held at the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, CBSO Centre - Friday October 7. Encompassing the very best creative talent in the region with categories being hotly
contested including ‘Independent Designer of the Year,’ ‘Emerging Designer of the Year’ and ‘Make-Up Artist of the Year’ amongst others. The Awards offer an unrivalled platform for current and emerging creatives to showcase their talents, both to consumers, as well as, crucially, buyers and industry big-wigs from the fashion industry who use the event to scout for the most exciting design talent of the future. MFA Founder, Jenny Eason, said; “We’ve seen so many previous winners go on to develop their own careers, and we’re proud to have been a starting point for them. We’re giving creatives a chance to excel in their field as well as on their home turf.” What started out as a one-off fashion show has developed into the biggest and best celebration of the Midlands’ fashion design creatives which has helped to raise the national and international profile of fashion and creative talent in the region.
Artist shines bright with new Jewellery collection
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Not only does it serve as a ceremony to recognise these talents, it also provides a rich hubbub of creative networking with an added splash of entertainment in the form of live performances, with the Voice 2015 finalist Sasha Simone performing at this year’s event. Finalists will be judged by a panel of industry professionals including Jenny Eason, Founder/Director of the Midlands Fashion Awards and Debra Hepburn, Managing Director at Rees, Bradbury, Hepburn (RBH) and co-founders of Young British Designers are amongst this year’s official panellists. Those crowned as the winner in their category will not only be exposed to vital coverage and press columns, but will be eligible for free membership with the Fashion Central Network, with a listing In their Creative Directory, a photoshoot featuring selected pieces from the designer’s collection or body of work, as well as a congratulatory trophy.
ondon-based Chinese artist, Isabella Liu has revealed her new ‘Sea Rhymes’ collection, set to debut at this year’s International Jewellery London in September. Winning three gold and two silver awards at the Goldsmith’s Craftsmanship and Design Competition, Isabella continues to create wearable concept jewellery, this time inspired by the natural flow and the sounds of the ocean. Isabella says that she is inspired by the sea, and says that it reflects something of her own nature that many women will find reflects them. The sea is calm yet powerful,
fluid yet unmoveable, and is something wonderful to behold--much like Isabella’s new designs. ‘I can’t swim,’ Isabella says. ‘I have never been able to swim, so perhaps that is why I revere the ocean: it whispers when it moves, it seems to breathe, and though it is mighty and vast there is something natural and gentle about its embrace when you step into it.’ The ‘Sea Rhymes’ collection comes after a period of reflection and learning for Isabella, who has plumbed the possibilities of using computer-aided design and 3D printing to bring this collection into being.
l Gold & Silver Rings
l Double Earring in Gold
l Silver Drop Earring in Black Rhodium with Black Hair Quartz
l Sea Rhymes Gold Set Jewellery
The Phoenix – September 2016
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y a D g n i d d e W geria Special Ni
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MY WEDDING DAY
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MY WEDDING DAY
The Phoenix – September 2016
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windswept but dry day at the White Hart Inn in Alfreton, saw friends and family gather from near and far to join in Christian Geiregger and Janna Birt’s special day, that would see the happy couple arrive as two, but leave as one. As a calm and relaxed groom, matched only by his soon to be bride, stood at the front of the room under strict instructions not to turn around, a quiet hush fell over the the room full of their nearest and
dearest, as Janna was walked down the aisle by her father Geoff, to take her place next to her husband-to-be, looking absolutely stunning in her dress. After a beautiful ceremony in a room delicately dressed for the occasion, with no tears from the two at the centre of stage, but a fair few from the first few rows, (I’m looking at you, groomsmen!), the happy couple led everyone outside to mingle and bask in the sun as it ventured out from between the clouds. Following some rather blustery, but thankfully dry photo sessions in front of a beautiful backdrop, and a main and secondary confetti throw, everyone was ushered inside to take their places for the official arrival of the new Mr and Mrs Geiregger. After a delicious three course meal, glasses were filled and the speeches began. From best man Loz’s laundry list of ‘dirt’ on Christian, and fatherof-the-bride Geoff’s subtle warning of a bullet with the groom’s name on it, to a touching tribute from the groom firstly to his sister, Heidi, and then in German to his extended family who
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had made the trip over for the wedding, the speeches went down tremendously. The couple took their first dance to Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud,” before the bride and her father shared a moment to their song - “You’ve Got A Friend In Me”. The evening continued with a Hog Roast, which went down a treat, especially with the guests who had only a couple of hours earlier wolfed down a three course meal! With some brilliant song choices, the DJ had everyone up on the dance floor at one point or another, whether it was coordinated dancing to “Saturday Night” or “Macarena” or air guitar to the solo in Queen’s “Don’t Stop Me Now”, before rounding off the night with Take That’s “Never Forget”, with the bridge and groom surrounded by the remaining few still standing dancing their way in and out, in what was a lovely finish to a day that was beautifully thought out from beginning to end. All in all the day went wonderfully, from the venue, to the weather and to the company, a great day was had by all, especially the happy couple. Please
join me in a toast to the newlyweds - Here’s to the new Mr and Mrs Geiregger! Christian and Janna would like to send a message to everyone involved in their big day. “We had an amazing day; it went better than we could have ever imagined. The venue and staff at the White Hart Inn were flawless and everybody had a fab time. We want to thank all the family and friends who made it possible and were a part of our special day.”
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MY WEDDING DAY
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CAMARA’S SPOTLIGHT
The Phoenix – September 2016
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I WILL TELL INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
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Welcome to ‘Camara features’ a new column where I will be spotlighting some of the most amazing charities, organisations and people I have had the privilege of working with. Be a part of my journey and learn and enjoy about being inspired.
n this months’ Spotlight I will cover Jenny Lee and I Will Tell International Film Festival. I recently had the privilege to meet a woman with such calm strength and serenity. I knew upon first meeting her, she was a woman filled with wisdom and great courage. Jenny Lee began to nurture a calling to run a film festival and so took a mission trip to Mozambique where she would take her new camera to try out her filmmaking skills. On arrival, Jenny found herself heart broken for a large number of the children but was moved at how they were filled with so much joy. Jenny decided to film a young girl who followed her around the village, her name is Anel. She bravely told of her dreams to find a good husband, travel the stories of those who would the world and help other people otherwise not have a voice, givbut her dreams were quickly ing them the opportunity to be shot down when a young man right at the centre of their own pointed out that she needed an narratives. Jenny decided to challenge the education and girls in their village past a certain age were not allowed to go to school. Anel was initially deflated but then lifted her head and said Ndinadzawapanga mschool. The translation was I Will Tell everyone I know about the power of an education. When Jenny returned to London she watched the film Bullet Boy, starring Ashley Walters, which told the story of young black men on a violent estate in London. The film could have been l Jenny Lee about young men of any colour in any region and the industry, she birthed I Will Tell pain of witnessing it galvan- International. Running for 10 years, the festized in her mind that the film festival would be about telling ival now screens over 20 films from around the world, all fol-
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lowed by post-screening discussions with the directors, other filmmakers and high profile community leaders. This year’s discussion panels will boast a number of international filmmakers and speakers as well as local community leaders.
What are some of your greatest memories with IWT International?
There are quite a few of them. For me the greatest moments were actually in some of the little things that happened. So in no particular order: I remember staying up until 2 in the morning folding leaflets with a friend the very first year. In fact we took turns falling asleep on each other. When we got clothes sponsorship it was amazing. I approached my favourite store, of course, and was amazed that they said yes. So the ladies on the team and I went down to their flagship store. There was one collection which we were not allowed to have, which was fine with us, as it was all beads and sequins. Apart from that we could go through the entire store, choose a few pieces of whatever we wanted and not even have to look at the price tag. In the end it was not really about the clothes, it was about the experi-
ence of walking into a store and not caring about the price tag, just about whether you liked it or not. Everyone should have that experience.
What is your vision for IWT International?
The festival will provide the premier space internationally for showcasing films about the black community and other under-represented groups around the world, maintaining our 3 Cs: Celebrating. Critiquing and Connecting. We will grow our wide network of supporters and festival goers from every walk of life and keep our unique inspirational touch of always having a post-screening discussion with the filmmakers and subject matter experts after every screening. We will continue to attract films and speakers of the highest calibre and grow a wide network of organisations affiliated to the work we do, with a fully efficient and strong team of committed board members, staff and volunteers to serve. Most of all, anyone who attends an I Will Tell screening will have their lives changed for the better and a renewed understanding of the practical application of the love of God.
What people have been getting for the past 10 years: A deeper appreciation of films focussed on the Black Community and other under-represented groups around the world and a sense of celebration of these people groups for who they truly are. Also, for people to have a greater understanding of important personal, local and global issues and the role that we can play collectively and as individuals, a renewed sense of the love of God in its practical application to the things that affect our lives and, from witnessing other people tell their own stories, more wisdom and empowerment to find and follow their purpose on earth. I also want them to be inspired to take on a more active role in making the festival bigger and better each year. We Are I Will Tell.
Are there any special people that you would like to mention or thank?
Over the past 10 years there have been so many people who have contributed, helped and supported in a myriad of different ways: my family for supporting me throughout in more ways than I can count, our Board members and Trustees, our amazing Volunteers, the Filmmakers and Distributors who have worked with us from
around the world, our speakers who have come from all walks of life, those who kindly donated their personal funds to help us, the Malawi interpreter who helped us on my first trip to Mozambique and of course the lovely Anel from Mozambique who shared her heart and kick-started me on this journey. Jenny, you certainly are an inspiring woman. Keep shining your light! Aside from the screenings, there will be; food, games, discussions, live performances and more! The festival takes place at the Empire cinema, Walthamstow London E17 from Tuesday 30th August to Friday 09th September, with a weekend gala from Friday 2nd – Sunday 4th September at ELIM Leytonstone London Please go online to find out more about the Festival: www.iwilltell.com/films Twitter: iwilltell Facebook: IWillTellFamily Instagram:IWillTellFilmFestival Email: info@iwilltell.com
Get in Touch with Camara camara@thephoenixnewspaper.com www.camaraofficial.com www.youtube.com/camaraofficial www.linkedin.com/CamaraFearon
Camara (aka mizzcamara for websearch)
What would you like people attending these events to take away with them?
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