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Fans protest BBC Radio 1 cuts

November 24, 2011 By Leave a Comment

David Moffatt Photographer at Moff@ Photography

Musicians and music fans gathered on a rainy Sunday to protest the cancelling of a Radio 1 show championing new Scottish music.

Glasgow’s Pacific Quay played host to the protesters who illustrated their point with Scottish musicians playing their music to show the BBC what they would be missing.

The campaign began back in October when the BBC announced further budget cuts which would include axing Radio 1′s ‘Introducing in Scotland’ hosted by Ally McCrae. The remit of the show and its sister shows in Wales and Northern Ireland, is to introduce audiences to the latest in local music. The show has helped launch the careers of Biffy Clyro and Paolo Nutini. Without these programmes protesters believe that regional music will be given limited air time.

Front man for Scottish band Frightened Rabbit, Scott Hutchison, explained the importance of the show to new Scottish music, “I think it would be a travesty if the show is cut from the BBC radio schedule in Scotland. For over 10 years, the show has been an invaluable and irreplaceable platform for new and established Scottish bands. It serves to breed an essential community within Scottish music and scrapping this show would reinforce the popular fallacy that the industry does not exist outwith London”

The campaign has also gained the backing of MSP Joan McAlpine who said, “The Campaign to save Radio Six Music was successful but The Pop Cop has gathered more signatures per head of population in Scotland with a lot less publicity, which shows the strength of feeling. The BBC really needs to listen to that message and save the sound of young Scotland. This is the only Scottish opt out on Radio One, so dropping it is just unfair. “

McAlpine has already gained cross party support in the Scottish Parliament for a motion in support of the show.

Music blogger, the Pop Cop and gig promoter, Pelmet Nites have gathered over 6,000 signatures for an online petition which is expected to be delivered to the BBC in London by the campaigners themselves in mid December.

Filed Under: Activism, Entertainment Tagged With: , , ,

The message in Freddie Mercury’s silence

November 24, 2011 By Leave a Comment

World Aid Day raises awareness around the globe. Photo: Courtesy UNAIDS

“Goodbye everybody – I’ve got to go, gotta leave you all behind and face the truth.”

These are some of the lines from one of the most famous songs in music history and looking back they seem hauntingly accurate. The song, written by Freddie Mercury, reached number one for the second time in 1991, staying there for five weeks following his death.

Mercury was a larger than life character and shocked the world by publicly announcing he was HIV positive one day before he died.

The legendary icon died at 45, from a type of bacterial pneumonia brought on by AIDS. He died in London, 20 years ago. Mercury is still well known for his flamboyant stage presence, powerful vocals and talented songwriting that has inspired millions.

With the anniversary of his death today, and the upcoming World AIDS Day next week, there are even more reports and research being published to raise awareness of the virus.

The purpose of World AIDS Day is to remind people around the world of the HIV and AIDS epidemic. It has been 30 years since AIDS was first reported, and it is estimated that today 34 million people are living with HIV around the globe.

World AIDS Day 2011 has a ‘looking forward’ theme with a focus on 2015.  The organisation, UNAIDS, which is a joint United Nations programme on HIV and AIDS, is leading the campaign with what they call ‘Getting to Zero’. The organisation claims “we have three main targets which are: zero new infections, zero discrimination and zero AIDS related deaths by 2015”.

UNAIDS is promoting a “smarter, faster, better campaign” to raise awareness of these targets. They may seem ambitious but with the global statistics of HIV and AIDS decreasing it might not be  impossible.

The total number of Scots with HIV is now 6,845 with 72% made up of males and 28% females. The main spread of HIV is mainly due to drug use and the sharing of needles and syringes.

The Scottish charity, Positive Help, has created services to help those who are affected by HIV and AIDS in the Edinburgh area. They provide a transport service, home support service and a children and young people befriending system. The befriending system is aimed at children from three to eighteen who are HIV positive, or have parents that are.

Angus Mackenzie from the charity claims, “the befriending system is very helpful to both children and teenagers, but also their parents.”

“There was one little boy we took to a festival and his reaction was just mind blowing, as if he’d never seen anything like it before.”

One of the biggest issues with HIV and AIDS is the embarrassment and taboo that still surrounds the virus toady. Mercury himself remained silent about his illness until one day before it killed him. Many suffer discrimination and feel restrictions in relationships with friends and family. This is what the befriending systems aims to prevent.

Despite the advances in life expectancy, Positive Help claims that those influenced by HIV still suffer physically, mentally and socially. Mental health issues are a problem with the virus as it can lead to ill health, depression, isolation and agoraphobia.

Filed Under: Entertainment, Health Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Freddie certainly gave us Somebody to Love

November 24, 2011 By Leave a Comment

A scene from the musical 'We Will Rock You'

Hit West End show, We Will Rock You, comes to Edinburgh
to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Freddie Mercury’s death.

The Queen frontman died an untimely death 20 years ago today. His death came one day after publicly announcing that he had Aids and asking fans to join him in his fight against the deadly virus. His anniversary coincides with the opening of ‘We Will Rock You’ at the Edinburgh Playhouse on Monday, November 29, 2011. The sell-out production will rock Edinburgh for six weeks. The performance is directed by Ben Elton with Brian May and Roger Taylor supervising music. On the opening of the production, Brian May said: “People will definitely come out of the theatre feeling that in a strange way they now know us, Queen, our struggle and our journey.”

Based on a fantastical story, Ben Elton explained: “We take the legend of Queen and create our own fantastical story of young kids battling the mighty corporations who want to suppress their individuality and their love of music. They need a hero who can help them in their struggle, and we have two – the dreamer Galileo and the sassy rock chick Scaramouche. Guess who ends up winning?”

One of Mercury’s most famous quotes, “I’m not going to be a rock star, I’m going to be a legend” certainly rings true today.  His music with Queen is still considered to be some of the greatest ever made, earning him his coveted legend status. His flamboyant routines and outrageous costumes entertained fans for decades. Mercury undoubtedly proved his dedication to his fans when he continued to entertain them, worldwide, while battling his illness. Belting out well known hits such as Bohemian Rhapsody, Another one Bites the Dust and Don’t stop me now, he carved his name into the heart of the music industry.

To celebrate the opening, a Gala event will be held on December 1, 2011 in the Edinburgh Playhouse. Held to raise funds for the Mercury Phoenix Trust, it will feature a special appearance from Queen legend Brain May. The Trust was founded in 1992 by Brian May and Roger Taylor, together with Queen manager Jim Beach. Since the establishment of the trust, it has raised over $15 million to contribute more than 750 grants to Aids charities worldwide.

December 1, will also mark World Aids day. It helps people living with the disease and commemorates those whose lives it took.  Brain May said: “I am really excited to be taking part in the show in Edinburgh, it’s always so much fun and a fantastic atmosphere and to know we are raising money for the Mercury Phoenix Trust is the icing on the cake.”

Tickets are still available for ‘We Will Rock You’ playing in Edinburgh Playhouse. For more information visit http://www.edinburghplayhouse.org.uk/prod-productions_details.asp?pid=2396&VenueID=93

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Singer backs Sky Arts futures fund

November 24, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Belle and Sebastian singer, Stuart Murdoch, will front a seminar at Creative Scotland tomorrow. The event is in support of a £30,000 arts fund, available for three lucky artists.

The fund is from Sky Arts in association with non-profit organisation, IdeasTap. In addition to the substantial bursary, the winners will also receive mentoring to aid in the development of  their practice and career over a year. The project’s aim is to support young people in the arts today, by bridging the gap between formal education and working as an independent facing financial restrictions and lacking creative support.

Applications are welcomed from artists aged 18-30, based in the UK and Ireland, who have an idea for a creative project. Forms of submissions can range from dance to theatre and music to art. Each applicant will propose how the Sky Arts fund can help to take their work to a next level.

The seminar will feature a live Q&A session with Murdoch, who will talk about his career and establishing himself in the industry. Murdoch will also offer advice about working in the arts. This will be followed by a panel of the fund’s staff members, who will answer questions about applying for the fund.

Opera director Daisy Evans, 24, was one of the winners of the first round of applications. Her submission was a ‘Silent Opera’ production, in which she uses live vocals and pre-recorded music heard through mobile headphones. “When they told me I had won I felt like my heart had dropped out,” she said. “This is a huge opportunity and if people are considering applying then they really need to believe that they have something worth speaking about and that people want to hear. The doors are there to be opened – just open them.”

The 24 year old Opera lover also had some advice for potential applicants: “My advice for people applying in this round is to be really passionate about your own idea.”

Applications for round two are now open.

Bookings for the seminar are still available at: http://www.ideastap.com/IdeasMag/all-articles/Sky-Arts-Ignition-Futures-Fund-Seminars/booking and is free.

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What’s happening in Edinburgh this week – Top 5

November 24, 2011 By 1 Comment

By Gemma McCallan

5

Design and Democracy Art Exhibition – starts Friday 25 November 2011, The Scottish Parliament

16 graduates from Scotland’s four renowned art schools have collaborated to create an exhibition. ‘Design and Democracy’ will showcase how inspired design can be both life enhancing and creative. Designs range from photographic presentation, model store fronts, products designed for a specific use and innovative graphic design.  The exhibition aims to demonstrate that design can improve the way we live.

Entrance is free. For more information see http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/newsandmediacentre/44405.aspx

4

Beauty and the Beast – starts Friday, November 25, 2011, Lyceum Theatre, Edinburgh

The Lyceum Theatre will play host to the classic tale, Beauty and the Beast, this weekend. This performance tells the story of a merchant who stumbles across a castle and angers the beast who lives within. The merchant promises to return, or send his daughter Beauty in his place. Beauty must first face the terrible monster before they gradually become friends and prove that love conquers all. This is a treat for the whole family.

Tickets start from £18 for adults and are available on https://bookings.lyceum.org.uk/WebPages/EntaWebShow/ShowList.aspx

3

My Week with Marilyn – Showing from Friday, November 25, 2011, Cameo Picture House

Michelle Williams plays one of Hollywood’s icons, Marilyn Monroe, in this biographical film. Based on two books by Colin Clarke, the film focuses on a week in 1965 when Monroe travelled to Britain. She was on her honeymoon with new husband, Arthur Miller. When Miller leaves the country, Clarke takes on the task of entertaining Monroe. Throughout their week together, Monroe escapes Hollywood life and the pressures that go with it.

http://www.picturehouses.co.uk/cinema/Cameo_Picturehouse/film/My_Week_With_Marilyn/

2

The Saw Doctors – Saturday, November 26, 2011,The HMV Picture House, Edinburgh

Irish band, the Saw Doctors, take a rare trip to Edinburgh to scatter some of their Irish charm.  With hits such as I Useta Love Her and Joyce Country Ceili Band, it will be hard to resist getting to your feet and having a jive. This is a night not to be missed – but don’t forget your dancing shoes.

Tickets are available on Ticketmaster and are £24.45 each. http://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/event/360046AC9F545952?artistid=776886&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=1

1

Rob Deerings Christmas Special – Tuesday, November 29, 2011, The Stand Comedy Club
Edinburgh’s finest comedy club provides a festive treat next Tuesday. Leading stand-up comedian, Rob Deering, offers a winning combination of music and laughter. Described as Chris Tarrent and Bill Bailey’s ‘love child’, Deering entertained Edinburgh with an unforgettable night. This year promises to be just as good. Labelled as ‘a comedy gig, a mix tape and a party’ all rolled into one, it promises to be full of festive cheer and a belly of laughs.

Ticket prices begin at £8.00 and are available to buy on http://www.thestand.co.uk/listings.aspx


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Dance against domestic abuse

November 24, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Scottish Women’s Aid encourages you to put on your dancing shoes
for a good cause this Friday.

The organisation will hold a special charity ceilidh on November 25, in Edinburgh’s City Chambers. Scottish Women’s Aid celebrates its 35th anniversary with The Belle Star Ceilidh Band providing live entertainment.

This event coincides with the beginning of the 16 Days of Action campaign to raise awareness of violence against women.

The fundraiser is just one of several events to be held throughout the coming months.  Other milestones in the anniversary calendar include seminars with influential researchers and activists addressing major developments in the understanding of the issue of gender based violence over the past 35 years.

As part of their anniversary the organisation will also hold an exhibition of photographs and memorabilia at Glasgow Women’s Library from November 26 – December 10.

A spokeswoman for the charity said, “The anniversary events will place the work of Scottish Women’s Aid in its historic, social and cultural context, highlighting connections with other campaigns and other struggles for social justice. The events will look back over the history of Scottish Women’s Aid, celebrating its achievements as well as looking to the challenges that lie ahead.”

For over three decades now the organisation is battling domestic abuse and offers help to them who suffer from it. The services they provide include safe refuge accommodation as well as information and support. Their mission statement is to end violence against women by fighting gender inequality, one of the main causes resulting in abuse. In times where domestic abuse is still a taboo, Scottish Women’s Aid has been ambitiously campaigning for real change throughout the years and has established itself as an important charity organisation.

The ceilidh starts Friday, November 25 at 7.30pm in the Edinburgh City Chambers.

Prices range from £16-£20 for adults and £10 concessions for students and under 16s. All the money goes to Scottish Women’s Aid. Food and a welcome drink are also included in the ticket price.

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Arthur’s Seat Brought to Life During Next Festival

November 17, 2011 By Leave a Comment

by Silvia Montes

As part of the 2012 Festival, Edinburgh’s iconic hill, Arthur’s Seat,
will be spectacularly transformed by NVA’s Scottish arts charity and its “Speed of Light” project.

“Speed of light” is a national programme of physical and cultural activity. Runners will wear specially designed self powered light suits, animating the hillside with trails of patterned light.

The idea came from the NVA’s Creative Director, Angus Farquhar, as he explained “I am a pretty committed runner and I am interested in ‘intentional movement’ as a way of understanding our place in the world, so it was only a matter of time before I put the two together”.

Up to 5,000 on-form runners will have the chance of a lifetime to run a choreographed route around the paths of Arthur’s Seat at night in specially constructed self-powered light-suits. As the NVA’s Creative Director said “our work is completed by the runners and walkers. There is no Speed of Light without that total participation”. He also confirmed that NVA’S will be also involved in the running “I will certainly run on some nights but I can not do the whole thing as I have to direct from the hillside in the build up, there are quite a few runners in NVA and hopefully they will put a training push in to take part next year!”

During the event, “Speed of Light” will also investigate why people run, though an exploration of the power of the mind in overcoming physical exhaustion.

The project will bring communities together from all over Scotland to celebrate sport and culture, connecting them directly to the aspirations of the Olympic and Paralympic Games in London.

Filed Under: Entertainment

Merchiston students set up shop

November 17, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Students gather around stalls in Merchiston foyer trying to sell their products to others.

Merchiston campus has been transformed into a retail haven by 3rd year graphic design students this week.

The class project called for students to create a group of original market stalls that were cost effective to run and turned over a profit.

The overarching theme of the project is ‘a market environment’ where students aim to develop a better understanding of what products consumers are most interested in. The individual stalls reflect rooms in student residences, with designs including a sweets room, a ‘lads pad’ and a printed media stall.

The budding entrepreneurs received no money from the university to fund their project and instead relied on the generosity of their fellow students to provide their wares for sale.

The range of gifts available include bags, coasters, sweets and ceramics as well as work and illustrations from students of Glasgow and Edinburgh schools of art.

The stalls will be up and running until closing time today to provide inspiration and temptation for any early Christmas shoppers in the Morningside area.


Filed Under: Entertainment, Features, Life and Society

Leith Festival to Lose Funding

November 17, 2011 By 1 Comment

The Leith festival looks set to face a dramatic downsize due to public funding cuts.
One of Edinburgh’s largest and most renowned festivals, it is likely to lose many of its benefactors,
includingEdinburghCity Council.

Leith Gala Day

The event relies heavily on public and charitable funds, which are diminishing at an alarming rate. Edinburgh City Council is just one of the contributors which has decided not to renew their contract with the festival.

The festival has entertained thousands of people over the past 8 years and has earned a reputation as one of the cities most popular attractions. It produces a variety of events including comedy, theatre, music and dance. Festival organizers predict that in 2012, it will be stripped  back, returning to its historical roots as a Gala Day and Pageant.

Speaking about the potential cuts, Leith Councillor Gordon Munro said: “We have had to reduce the festival because we don’t have finances. There has never been much money available from the Council and other sources have dried up and for the foreseeable future, I don’t see that changing.”

The residents of Leith have relied heavily on the festival in recent years to bring trade to the area and boost community spirit. Rowan Campbell, on of the festival’s board members, said: “People need to know how vulnerable we are and that it cannot go on without them. We need their help. The festival does great things for the community but there doesn’t seem to be funding available for this sort of community event, if there is we certainly haven’t found it.”

A public meeting is scheduled to be held alongside the Leith festival.  The AGM is due to take place on Wednesday 7 December in the Leith Community Centre at 7.30pm. It is open to the public, and any offers to join the board of volunteers who run the festival, will be warmly welcomed.

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Top 5 – Arts

November 17, 2011 By Leave a Comment

5

The Rum Diary, The Cameo Picture House – Week beginning 15 November 2011

Johnny Depp stars as American journalist, Paul Kemp, who takes a debauched journey to 1950′s Puerto Rico after his life hits a road block. Working for a rundown Caribbean newspaper he continues down a drug and drink-addled path of self-destruction. Lusting after the fiancée of a wealthy businessman is just one of his many misguided ideas, documented throughout in his journal.

An adaption of the novel The Rum Diary by Hunter S. Thompson, this film paints an interesting picture of journalism, and follows the haphazard life of a chaotic guy.

http://www.picturehouses.co.uk/cinema/Cameo_Picturehouse/film/The_Rum_Diary/

 4 

NSPCC Scotland Cupcake Couture – The Merchants’ Hall 19 November 2011

This Saturday, enjoy a stylish cupcake while lending fashion a helping hand. A chic afternoon tea, of cupcakes and cocktails, will be provided at the fabulous Merchants’ Hall. Amidst the alcohol and confectionary a fashion show will be held, featuring collections from some of Edinburgh’s top boutiques and fashion stalls. These delights will be followed by an auction, giving you the chance to donate to a wonderful cause and come home with some goodies for yourself. The NSPCC in Scotland carries offers strong support for vulnerable children.

If you are interested in attending, contact the Scottish fundraising team at 0844 892 0212 or email scotlandevents@nspcc.org.uk.

 3

Edinburgh Cancer Research Art Exhibition – starts 15 November – 20 November 2011

Scottish artists, or artists with Scottish roots, such as Lynn Rodgie, Ian Mastin, and Margaret Shaw will be showcasing their amazing work at the Edinburgh Cancer Research Art Exhibition in Adam house.

The majority of the paintings that will be exhibited are from Edinburgh, however, some of the pieces are from further afield. This exhibition is  enticing and has something for everyone, regardless of artistic familiarity and knowledge. There will also be displays of handcrafted jewellery, wool crafts and pottery.

Opening times are from 10.30am to 6.00pm Tuesday to Friday and 10.30am to 4.00pm Saturday. Refreshments are available.

http://www.edinburghguide.com/events/2011-11-15/edinburghcancerresearchartexhibition

2

The Drifters, The Tom Fleming Centre, Edinburgh – 19 November 2011

Edinburgh warmly welcomes the Drifters, one of the biggest soul groups. They will be bringing their catalogue of over 50 hits to entertain Edinburgh. The line up of the Drifters may have changed over the years but the amazing tracks stay the same. Don’t miss an amazing night!

Tickets are on sale from http://www.eventelephant.com/thedrifters and are £22 each.

1

Top Hat, Edinburgh Playhouse – starts 22 November 2011

Get your dancing hat on for one of the greatest musicals of all time. Fred Astaire and Ginger Roger’s renowned Hollywood hit of the 1930s, comes to Edinburgh’s Playhouse Theatre for the ultimate of entertainment thrills.

Stars Tom Chambers (Strictly Come Dancing) and Summer Strallen (Hollyoaks) play Jerry Travers and Dale Tremont. Jerry is a famous American tap dancer and has travelled to London to appear in his first ever West End show. Here he meets Dale, the girl of his dreams, and pursues her across Europe in a bid to capture her heart.

With hours of amazing music and dancing you will not be disappointed. You’ll find yourself singing along to classics such as ‘Cheek to Cheek’ and ‘Isn’t it a lovely day to be caught in the rain’. A feel good musical comedy is just what you need to make you forget all.

http://www.edinburghplayhouse.org.uk/prod-productions_details.asp?pid=3019&VenueID=93

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Scots Fiddle Festival 2011

November 17, 2011 By Leave a Comment

This weekend sees the launch of ‘Fiddle 2011′
in Edinburgh city centre.

Boasting traditional music, lively ceilidhs and world class performers the Scots fiddle festival promises to be an action packed, fun filled event for all the family.

Listen here:

Tickets for ‘Fiddle 2011′ are available from the Queen’s Hall Box Office on 0131 668 2019, www.thequeenshall.net or in person at The Queen’s Hall, 85 – 89 Clerk Street, Edinburgh, EH8 9JG. Open Mon – Sat 10am – 5.30pm.

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“The Forest has too much soul to close”

March 25, 2011 By 1 Comment

by Jane Bretin

Source The Forest blog

 

It has been announced today that The Forest Cafe must leave its current location in Bristo Place by August 31 2011.

The Cafe received a letter from the Trustees of Edinburgh University Settlement stating they would have to leave the premises when the lease ends in August. Edinburgh’s most famous independent arts’ centre launched a campaign last Autumn in an attempt to raise money to buy the building.

The campaign is set to continue until the very last-minute with more events to come which include the massive Roofraiser. This month-long event features free gigs every week, Wednesday to Sunday between 8pm and 11pm.

The outcome of the campaign is still uncertain. So what would happen if it did have to close? Harry Giles, fundraiser officer for the venue told us that if all else fails; “We will look for another building but The Forest has too much soul to close altogether. Even if we need to take a break for a few months to sort things out, we will reopen.”

The cafe has become one of the city’s landmarks throughout the years and is a popular festival venue. It relies on volunteers and organises free events to promote all forms of art. The Forest is also a community centre as it includes a hair salon, several music venues and is also involved in projects worldwide.

To take part in the campaign or show your support, click here to sign the petition or donate a couple of pounds.

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“Holy App” mayhem for Ipad 2 release

March 25, 2011 By Leave a Comment

By Celeste Carrigan

Apple's Latest Gadget the Ipad2 Source: Apple

It is a gadget filled weekend with the release of the Nintendo 3DS and the Apple Ipad 2.

Thousands of people began queuing last night to get their hands on two of the biggest gaming gadgets as they battle it out for sales. Nintendo 3DS had a midnight launch with thousands queuing outside shops nationwide.  London’s Oxford HMV store held the official launch of the Nintendo 3DS with Plan B playing for the crowds. [Read more...]

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BAFTA Scotland winners announced

March 25, 2011 By Leave a Comment

By Georgi Bomb

Copyright: BAFTA.org

It was all about the suits and gowns last night as the BAFTA in Scotland New Talent Award ceremony took place at Glasgow Film Theatre.

Celebrating fresh young talent, awarding students, and highlighting the future of Scottish film, television and digital media.

The night belonged to Lou McLoughlan who received two awards for Best Director: Short Form and Best Student Work. His work, Caring For Calum was a moving portrait of a man looking after his father in the Scottish Highlands.

The horror genre was well recognised with Hanna Stanbridge winning Best Actor/Actress award for her role as Petronella in Outcast, an Edinburgh-based horror. Naysun Alae-Carew scooped Best Producer: Short Form for his zombie take on High School Musical, Zombie Musical.

Ewan Angus, Chairman of BAFTA in Scotland said: “In today’s current economic climate, it is especially important that we take the time to recognise the outstanding level of talent emerging from the Scottish moving image industries. Tonight demonstrates the enormous wealth of potential we have within Scotland, and we’re proud to be able to give the winners the recognition they rightly deserve.”

For the full list of winners, check out the website.

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UpDate: A Gran Turismo Romance

March 23, 2011 By 1 Comment

Gran Turismo 5 was one of the most eagerly anticipated games of the 21st Century. On its release, however, it did not meet gamers’ expectations. Since then it has improved, slowly working its way into the hearts of gamers and turning into a rather good game after all.

But why when it was released was it so bad, and how has it turned itself around? Why is it now judged to be a game worth buying as opposed to other games such as Killzone 2?

The answer lies in system updates. This feature was added to the PS3 to enhance games, and this is one of the reasons gamers paid so much for the console. The enhancement meant games could be updated and new copies did not have to be bought every year to gain the latest gaming experience. [Read more...]

Filed Under: Entertainment, Features, Science and Technology, Uncategorized

Finally filming the hobbits

March 21, 2011 By Leave a Comment

by Anne Mackie

After months of delays, filming on the two ‘Hobbit’ movies is now underway in New Zealand. The wheels of ‘the Lord of the Rings’ prequels are finally in motion after plans were delayed due to funding problems, rows over actors’ wages, and director Peter Jackson’s surgery.

New Zealand: Hobbit hotspot

[Read more...]

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Online game relaunch creates new jobs in Edinburgh

March 21, 2011 By Leave a Comment

By Emily Glass

Internet gaming remains popular

A US Gaming company have revived Dundee-based developer Real Time World (RTW) by buying shares in the business and plans to open a new studio in Edinburgh.

Set up in 2002 by Dave Jones, who was part of the firm responsible for creating Grand Theft Auto,  RTW went into administration last August with around 250 jobs being lost.

[Read more...]

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Seen but not heard

March 18, 2011 By Leave a Comment

by Jane Bretin

Scotland is inaugurating its first silent film festival in Falkirk today. The Hippodrome Festival of Silent Cinema is set to last three days, from Friday to Sunday and will feature a number of all time

Credit miss mass

classics as well as less famous movies.

The festival includes the screening of a dozen films to suit all ages and tastes as well as an ongoing exhibition in the Bo’ness library. The exhibition retraces the evolution of cinema in the Falkirk area and highlights the importance of the 7th art to this day. [Read more...]

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Red news day

March 18, 2011 By Leave a Comment

by Neal Wallace

Red Nose Day

Today is Red Nose Day, with millions across the UK doing something funny for money, from bake sales to fancy dress. Edinburgh Napier News sent reporter Catherine Mumford out to see how the people of Edinburgh are raising Comic Relief funds.

Catch her report on the Edinburgh Napier News, today at 3pm.

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Bringing some Comic Relief to the office for the day

March 18, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Ruth Coy, Karen Knight and Helen Hooke took part in some comic fundraising

Red Nose Day fundraising has already started in Edinburgh. AstraZeneca, a pharmaceutical company based in Edinburgh, brought some comic relief to the office yesterday, Thursday with their own Red Nose Day. They all took in part in some fundraising from baking cakes, dress down for the day and even dressing in red and much more.To find out more about what they did and how much they raised……….

Tune into Susannah Radford at 12.15 pm on Edinburgh Napier News Radio.

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Happy Red Nose Day

March 18, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Red Nose 2011

by Celeste Carrigan

Today marks the official Red Nose Day. The BBC tonight sees a jam packed TV show of comic shenanigans.

Many have already started their fundraising from shaving heads to fun runs. Radio 1 DJ Chris Moyles held the longest radio marathon yesterday for 51.5-hours. The show has already got the money rolling in for the Comic Relief fund, with listeners donating over £2 million.

[Read more...]

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Somersaults – A National Theatre of Scotland Platform Performance

March 11, 2011 By Leave a Comment

National Theatre of Scotland-Somersaults. Picture credit Drew Farrell

Review by Susannah Radford

Somersaults, by Iain Finlay MacLeod, is a lovely meditation on the power of language, its link to identity and the pain associated with trying to keep a dying language alive.  Identity is eroded as one’s mother tongue is forgotten. It’s a cause for concern; in the last census Gaelic speakers made up just under 2% of the Scottish population.

As James’ life collapses he also has to face up to his father’s impending death, his last remaining link to the Gaelic language; his mother tongue. [Read more...]

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Zara Phillips and Mike Tindall set to marry in Edinburgh

March 11, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Cannongate Kirk Edinburgh Source: Telegraph

By Celeste Carrigan

As Royal Wedding fever starts to set in across the UK, Scotland is starting to prepare for the 2nd of Royal Marriages to happen this Year. Princess Ann’s daughter Zara Phillips and fiancé rugby player Mike Tindall have chosen to hold their nuptials in Edinburgh. The summer wedding will be a small family affair, with the ceremony happening at Cannogate Kirk on the Royal Mile . The reception will take place at the Queen’s Scottish residence Palace of Holyroodhouse. Further updates on this story to follow in the tv news bulletin on Edinburgh Napier News.

Filed Under: Entertainment, Life and Society, MA Friday, News in Brief Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Matthew P: Interview

March 6, 2011 By Leave a Comment

by Sam Eastop

Suffolk-based singer-songwriter Matthew P brings a fresh, exciting light to the acoustic/folk genre. A haunting vocal brought to life by rich, soulful lyrics and accompanied by summery, uplifting guitar lines, Matthew is a musician that has to be heard to be truly appreciated.
His new EP, ‘The Breakfast EP’ will be out soon and will feature, ‘The Breakfast Song’ which is currently available as a free download on Matthew’s facebook and website, (link below.)
In an interview, Matthew P shares how he generates his music, his influences and his plans for the future.

How do you begin writing a song, lyrics or melody first? Or does it vary?

I start writing a song before I pick up a guitar or do any singing. It starts with an experience and then I go on to reflect on that using lyrics and melody. When i actually sit down to write I start with a clear idea of what I want to write about and then I put that to one side and start on the music. Once I am in a good place with the music I come back and start to weave words into the song. All I do after that is hope something good happens if it doesn’t then i put down the guitar and go and do some living.

Where do you tend to draw inspiration from the most?

Mostly from personal experience and the people who are closest to me.

What is your favourite song to perform and why?

My favourite live tune to play varies but one that I always enjoy without fail is Patti. I always try to get the crowd involved on that one. Its a song about a Portuguese girl I worked in a bar with. She was older than me and she used to get me drunk and make me dance. She was an amazing dancer.

Where do you think your musical style has originated from?

My style comes from many different influences such as Elliot Smith, Billy Bragg, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones. I grew up listening to all sorts of great music that has had a definite influence on me but I like to think that it has an honesty and a sound that comes from reflecting my simple observations of life around me.

Any particularly exciting plans for the near future? Is a big nationwide tour on the cards?

I have an E.P. coming out really soon and there is a free download that E.P. on my Facebook page called ‘The Breakfast Song‘. We shot a low-fi video for it in Asda Lowestoft when we were hung-over one Saturday morning. Was a lot of fun. I am playing lots of small dates at the mo around the country. I am really up for gigging at the mo so if anyone has any good nights they are organising get in touch via www.facebook.com/matthewpmusic

Lastly, if you had a ‘play list’ of five songs you are listening to a lot at the moment, what would the five be?

The five songs I am listening to at the moment are
Rinse Me Down – Bombay Bicycle Club
Angeles – Elliot Smith
One Day Like This – Elbow
California – Joni Mitchell
The New Pollution – Beck

Matthew P’s official website: http://matthewpmusic.com/
Matthew’s single ‘Gilly’ on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQze-wjcGVA

Filed Under: Entertainment, Features Tagged With:

The Bang: Rory Speed Interview

March 4, 2011 By Leave a Comment

by Sam Eastop

The Bang are a Scottish band that are certainly making quite a name for themselves. Playing gigs around the country, receiving air time for their songs on the radio, and notably winning the Dundee Battle of the Bands last year.
Since then, The Bang have been recording and spreading the word about their new and exciting sound to the population…and bucket-loads of praise and support seems to follow in their wake.
With top-notch songs and an excellent live performance quality, The Bang are definitely an up-and-coming band to keep an eye on.
To find out a bit more and discover what’s new with The Bang, I caught up with the band’s lead singer, Rory Speed:

Tell us a bit about how the band formed and where did the name come from?

Rory: Well the band formed a few years ago. The guitarist Stewart Black and our drummer Jamie Dunleavey formed as a younger school band which eventually fell through. Just in the past year, Stewart took a few months off to write some new material and they both started looking for a vocalist and a bassist. That’s when they came across me, and I quite rightly said, ‘yeah, I’ll take on the job!’
We were just going to be a two-piece to begin with- just guitar and drums to be a bit different, however it sounded a bit empty so we started looking for a bassist. It was at this point we took on Stewart’s brother Cameron as an additional member and it worked out really well.

‘The Bang’ came around when Stewart was looking on the back of an Arctic Monkeys t-shirt, and one of the songs was ‘Bang Bang.’ So he thought it sounded like a good name for a band, but it was already taken and so we decided to change it to ‘The Bang.’

What would you say your main musical influences are and do you fit into any genres?

Rory: We all come from different backgrounds and what we all listen to is different. A really wide variety of bands and genres such as Death Cab For Cutie who are an alternative rock band to Foo Fighters, Biffy Clyro, Led Zeppelin and The Who which all range from 40 years ago to modern day music.
I think this is great as it allows us to explore different genres but I’d say we do fit into the ‘alternative rock’ genre. We’re trying to introduce a few pop hooks [in our music] too.

What has been your favourite gig so far? Any particularly memorable ones?

Rory: I’ve had a few favourite gigs. The band ‘Make Sparks’ a signed Scottish band that played T in the Park, were a great band to play with. That was a Halloween gig so everyone was dressed up for a laugh and it turned out to be an absolutely amazing place to play, with about 200 people there. It was a good high for us.
The most memorable gig was definitely the Battle of the Bands final in Dundee. 340 people turned out to watch us play and we came out on top in the end and won a recording deal. This was really good and it’s helped us a lot with experience, seeing as we are younger than a lot of bands at the moment.

What’s your favourite song to perform and why?

Rory: It’s got to be ‘Qwerty.’ As I joined the band, I got a snippet of the instrumental and thought it was absolutely fantastic. So to put vocals over that track and play it live to a crowd is brilliant. It’s on our demo and it’s definitely a crowd pleaser, it’s so jumpy and upbeat that it seems to go down an absolute storm! It’s good fun.

Any exciting projects in the near future?

Rory: We’ve got a few coming up, we’re quite busy. Just over the next few months we’re playing with bands like Sucioperro and Page 44, really big up-and-coming bands at the moment with a lot written about them in Q magazine and Kerrang. We’re playing with Sucioperro on the 6th of April and Page 44 in Dundee on the 11th of May. So once we get some money in, it’s going to be all about recording after that and hopefully by June we’ll have a fully-fledged EP which will probably be on iTunes. Hopefully if all goes to plan, that’s us sorted.

Where do you hope to be in a few years time?

Rory: That’s a difficult question. Hopefully we’ll have built up a substantial fan base. We’re quite new, we’ve only been going for about eight months so it’s hard to say where we’ll be. But things have looked promising from the start so hopefully in the next few years we’ll be playing up and down the country to big crowds in England and Wales too. The best we can hope for is to possibly be signed and take on bigger challenges like T in the Park and things like that. We’ve had a few reviews, one of them stating that we were one of the best new live acts at the moment and that we’ll definitely be ‘on the scene’ sooner rather than later, which is really promising and exciting.

How can fans get access to your music?

Rory: Just now, through Facebook. If you type in ‘The Bang’ on Facebook we should be the top search. Our Myspace is www.myspace.com/thebanguk. That’s got all the details of gigs etcetera.
In the next few months, before we get out EP out, we’re getting a web page set up too. There’ll be a lot of information in the next few months coming up about gigs and different leases so keep in touch.
Peace!

Sam Eastop

Filed Under: Entertainment, Features Tagged With: , , , , ,
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