Archive
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Cool sounds of jazz as five come to town
THE sweet melodic sounds of instrumental jazz will be coming to Malvern as the Gareth Hall Quintet get set to stage a concert in the town. The group - who will be playing as a duo - combine historic standards from the 50s to the present day with some
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All classics are covered
ANTHEMIC classics such as Baggy Trousers by Madness and Watching the Detectives by Elvis Costello are set to be aired at Worcester's Marrs Bar tonight as rockers Funky Skunk take to the stage. The seven-piece band consists of members from many a local
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Write way to play songs
DEDICATED musician Clive John has battled against adversity following an horrific childhood accident to reach the final of a prestigious songwriting competition. Twenty-nine-year-old Clive, of Quest Hills Road, Malvern, suffered severe burns after putting
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Band ferrets out funds to support Sollis charity
ROCK band The Ferret Convention sang their hearts out for charity in a fund-raising gig in Evesham over the Bank Holiday Weekend, helping to raise £900 for the Tracy Sollis Leukaemia Trust. The gig was held at The Railway Hotel in the town, on Saturday
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Legend hits the road
FANS of talented rock artist Van Morrison, pictured below, will be delighted to hear he is booked in to play Cheltenham this month. The legendary musician - who has had a string of hits over his 30-plus-year career including Gloria and Have I Told You
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Catch the gossip
WORCESTER residents need never miss their weekly fix of celebrity gossip again as Hello! Magazine offers its readers the chance to reads news on their favourite stars as its happens. The service is being run through the magazine's online extension - Hellomagazine.com
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Comedy troupers line-up for club's big birthday bash
ONE of Birmingham's landmark comedy venues will be serving up a barrel of laughs this month to celebrate its 30th anniversary. The Glee Club has hosted more than 8,000 performances throughout its years, with big name acts such as Peter Kay, Lee Evans,
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Be blown away as Rainmaker storm in
UP-and-coming Worcester band Rainmaker are looking to create a storm on the music scene with their explosive new sound. The three-piece rock 'n' roll band formed in January this year after 24-year-old drummer Jamie May, from Perdiswell, Worcester, received
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Indie icons Muse blow them away
THERE were a few dishevelled figures wandering among the giant foam footballers and ever-present waft of hot dogs on Sunday morning. Big Brovaz, The Divine Comedy, and Athlete were the first three bands to open Sunday's festival on the V Stage. They were
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Fins and Ferdinand hit Wolverhampton
TWO exciting music names have announced live gig dates at Wolverhampton Civic Hall. Finnish rockers The Rasmus and cool cats Franz Ferdinand will both be playing at the venue on separate autumn tour dates. The Rasmus, whose music has been described as
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THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE Baxter College, Kidderminster.
IT was great to see the young folk of Kidderminster Operatic and Dramatic Society's youth section (KODYS) so obviously enjoying themselves while entertaining us last week. This was a shortened version of the Gilbert and Sullivan favourite, but most of
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Gig gets in touch with supreme spiritual side
A SPECIAL gig tonight will be celebrating the 40th anniversary of John Coltrane's recording of A Love Supreme. A Love Supreme is a spiritual jazz song, and the DJs at the event will be playing a selection of other songs in the same music genre. DJs Ape
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JAMIE CULLUM Ragley Hall
IT is not every day a stately home opens its grounds to host a live music festival so I had to satisfy my curiosity when the wild child of jazz came a knockin'. I was not disappointed. We were treated to a host of timeless classic like I Get a Kick out
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Eyes out for boy band star
ALL eyes will be on Birmingham this Sunday when a boy band search for a fourth male singer, to release a charity single. New boy band All Eyes, will be in The Bull Ring from 10am. They are set to release their first single, She's A Vision, in October
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Band nearing Fever pitch
WORCESTERSHIRE-based groove-rock band The Fever are rehearsing for their latest tour of Midlands' venues. The band consists of Neil Ivison on vocals and guitar, George Elliott on bass and vocals, Adam Barry on organ and piano and Lee on drums. They have
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LYSISTRATA Rose Theatre, Kidderminster
THE young cast from Kidderminster College made us laugh with this up-beat version of Aristophenes' tale of the original women's libbers, who decided they had had enough of war-making, so refused any love-making until their menfolk came to their senses
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Big names head for park party
JULES Benjamin, Medford and The Fever are just some of the big Worcester names who will be taking part in the Charity Party in the Park 2004. The all-day event takes place on August Bank Holiday, Monday, August 30, at Bamboo, Tybridge Street, Worcester
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Thunderous applause for local heroes
KIDDERMINSTER MALE CHOIR CENTENARY CONCERT Symphony Hall, Birmingham KIDDERMINSTER folk did their award-winning choir proud on Saturday night, as Symphony Hall was packed with familiar faces, who either arrived in the fleet of coaches which headed up
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Elkie promises some sunshine after the rain
ELKIE Brooks, whose career took off after supporting The Beatles on the early 1960s, will be the star name on the bill when she plays on the first night of the Worcester Festival. Elkie who embraces rock ballads, blues and jazz, is the biggest-selling
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Mix of music on offer for charity event
THE Relics will take people on a trip down memory lane when they play music from the 60s and 70s in aid of Cancer Research. The four-piece will be playing at The Vine pub, Ombersley Road, Worcester on Sunday at 7.30pm. Admission is free, and there will
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THE VALENTINES IN CONCERT Town Hall, Kidderminster.
ANYONE who did not enjoy Saturday's concert must be very hard to please. We enjoyed a relaxed evening of music-making, featuring not only our Valentines, but the Blaenavon Male Choir, Russell Painter and Jonathan French. The men did well to get through
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Hero puts trust in DJ
STRATFORD lads Antihero have just released their latest single, Don't Trust The DJ. The record has been released through Alpha Engineering Records, and it can be ordered from any shop in the country with the following details - Band: Antihero, Single:
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Make this a date
FOLK lovers should make a date in their diary for a visit by talented singer and guitar player James Keelaghan. James is renowned for looking to the past for musical inspiration and his most celebrated songs tell the stories of extraordinary events from
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Wowing the crowds at Ross's big festival
A NUMBER of acts signed to Kidderminster College's MAS Records will be wowing the crowds when they take part in the 2004 Ross-on-Wye International Festival. Episonic, from Bristol, will be joined by other MAS acts The Boswells, Girls Love Ponies, King
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Looking forward to going back on road
SINCE the release of her debut album Call Off The Search last autumn, Katie Melua has gone from being an unknown artist to the most successful artist in Britain this year. Following on from her debut sell-out tour here earlier this year, festival appearances
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Here's music to strip naked to!
NEW York's Lord Bishop Rocks will be bringing their loud and proud sound all the way to Worcester's Marr's Bar in what promises to be a wild show. Lord Bishop, the front man of the trio, is a larger then life character who whips the crowd into such a
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PRIDE AND PREJUDICE Rose Theatre, Kidderminster, until Saturday
THE Nonentities brought the well-known characters in this very potted version of Jane Austen's novel to life with aplomb. David Wakeman is an excellent Mr Bennet, who deserved a thump for only allowing his wife to speak to him for an allotted few minutes
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Ad Lib return
MALVERN based DJ Ad Lib returns to the Octagon Bar at St Ann's Well Cafe, Great Malvern tonight to deliver a selection of chilled beats & funk-soul grooves. n A night of roots and dub, old school and new DJs will be taking place against the glorious
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Babyshambles Wrekin View, Telford
THIS country pub near Telford was "the" place to be for any self-respecting indie fan last Thursday night when Babyshambles came to the Midlands for a hastily arranged and very secret gig. If you don't know, Babyshambles is the side-project of Libertines
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Debut night for new keyman
PEOPLE who enjoy a good dance to music as diverse as Travis, Paul Weller, The Kinks, Reef and Britney, will find that Worcester band Medford are just the ticket. Medford will be bringing their popular and hip cover versions to Worcester's Marr's Bar,
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Plenty of room for jazz Croome
JAZZ-lovers can enjoy a live performance by violinist Ralph Allin and his band at Croome Park, near Upton-upon-Severn, tomorrow. The event is taking place at the Church of St Mary Magdalene, in the park, and kicks of at 7.30pm. Gates open at 6.30pm, and
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HELLO DOLLY Stourport Choral and Operatic Society Civic Centre, Stourport
JUDITH Standing forsook her usual position as musical director to take the title part in this happy musical, handing over her baton to Tim Hackett. Claire Worboys also stepped over the footlights, as director and choreographer. When I say Judith appeared
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Funnyman on stage in Ayckbourn comedy
ON stage and on screen funnyman Matthew Cottle has been keeping audiences entertained for years. And his trip to Malvern Theatres next week is no exception. Best-known for his role as inadequate banker Martin in the hit 90s sitcom Game On, Matthew Cottle
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Pirouetting pair prepare to step in to ballet limelight tonight
CHRISTMAS has come early for two talented young dancers from Worcester who have won parts in the nation's favourite festive production The Nutcracker which begins a 13-night run at the Birmingham Hippodrome tonight. Amy Gwynn and Thomas Edwards, both
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Not to be switched on
THE first un-plugged open stage night will be taking place this evening at The Octagon Room, St Ann's Well Caf, in Great Malvern. The event will feature performances by Malvern-based musicians. Singer-songwriters Charlotte Strawbridge and Matt Woosey,
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Acting's second nature to this sassy Cinderella
WHILE the rest of us are busy finalising our Christmas card list and totting up how many presents we need to buy this year, the festive celebrations are temporarily at the back of the minds of two of the stars of this year's Swan Theatre pantomime. Although
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See Nick on stage in Wolverhampton
NICK Cave and the Bad Seeds will be gigging at Wolverhampton Civic Hall on Sunday, November 7. Nick, the son of an English teacher and a librarian, brought a rare intelligence to the post-punk scene of the early 80s. His pre-Bad Seeds band The Birthday
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Kelis brings her milkshake to V
KELIS, R & B's most appetising songstress will be stepping up to complete the V2004 bill fresh from her monster chart hit Milkshake. Also joining Kelis in the festival line-up, will be Kevin Mark Trail, Fried, Rodrigo Y Gabriela, and Rooster. Kelis
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Right, all we need to do now is find a leading man...
TICKETS for the Swan Theatre Amateur Company's production of Alan Ayckbourn's Joking Apart are selling like hot cakes despite the fact it does not even start its two week run at the Swan Theatre until February. But there is a slight problem - the company
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Chuck Berry set to be at the Bash
THE legendary Bulldog Bash bike festival is revving up for take off next month. The line up of The Bulldog Bash 2004 has been confirmed, and the legendary Chuck Berry will be making a guest appearance. A second outdoor stage has been added featuring rock
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GUYS AND DOLLS Rose Theatre, until Saturday
KIDDERMINSTER Operatic and Dramatic Society have come up with another winner. Damon Runyan's story of gamblers, Sky Masterson who falls for Salvation Army Captain Sarah Brown, and Nathan Detroit who has been promising to marry Adelaide for 14 years, is
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Su all set to star in Annie
SU Pollard is remembered by millions as loveable cleaner Peggy in the hugely popular sit-com Hi-de-Hi. But she is a highly talented and versatile actress with numerous television and stage credits. Her most recent role, for which she has won rave reviews
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THE LAST SAMURAI, Certificate 15
TOP Gun becomes Shogun in this epic tale of honour and conflict between eastern and western cultures. Tom Cruise stars as American soldier Nathan Algreb who is headhunted by the Japanese Emperor to defeat the country's Samurai warriors so an arms treaty
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Will big bro take over the show?
THEATRE and glamour will be coming to Ragley Hall in full force on Sunday in the form of Big Brovaz, and The Sugababes. Big Brovaz who are supporting the Babes, are best known for their hits, Nu Flow, Favourite Things, and We Wanna Thank You. Comprising
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LOST IN YONKERS Rose Theatre, Kidderminster, Until Saturday.
NEIL Simon's glorious dialogue is given a brilliant interpretation by the Nonentities this week. The story of the two lads who are left with their irascible grandma and child-like aunt while their father tries to make some money, is brought to life with
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The Classics with Annie Dendy Different rhythms
Heitor Villa-Lobos Symphony No 7 andSinfonietta No 1. Radio-Sinfonieorchester Stuttgart des SWR. Conductor Carl St Clair. n CPO 999 713-2 I previously reviewed Villa-Lobos' music last year, and my opinion hasn't changed. These two pieces are a different
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David's dedicated to getting it perfect
THE key to everything David Suchet does is his meticulous attention to detail and planning. The actor, famous to audiences of over 70 million for his portrayal of Hercule Poirot, is currently engaged in studying his character Gregor in Man and Boy, a
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Sad and doleful strings
Lachrymae - Music for Strings. Purcell, Britten, Part, Walton, Vaughan Williams, Tippett. Chamber Orchestra of Europe. Viola - Nicholas Bne. n Warner Classics CD 2564 60190-2 THIS CD, one of two recordings, was recorded live in a series of concerts presented
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Mama Mia- they're back (almost)
THIS year was the first time in 23 years that Swedish supergroup, ABBA could finally reunite on stage for fans across the globe. Super troupers and dancing queens waited with baited breath to see if the 30th anniversary of ABBA'S Eurovision Song Contest
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'A lot of people still think Morris dancing is a joke'
AN artist who helped revive an interest in English Morris dancing and its music will be playing at Worcester's Huntingdon Hall tonight. Ashley Hutchings released the first ever electric Morris album, Morris On, in 1972. It was followed by Son of Morris
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COLD MOUNTAIN On general release at cinemas nationwide
IT is little wonder this movie, which charts the effects of the American Civil War on a group of people whose lives are intertwined by love, desperation and sheer hopelessness, has been nominated for 13 BAFTAs and is expected to shine at the Oscars. Boasting
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The Classics with Annie Dendy-Norwegian inspirations
Grieg Piano Concerto/Symphonic Dances by Edvard Grieg. Havard Gimse, piano. Royal Scottish National Orchestra, conductor Bjarte Engeset. n Naxos DDD 8.557279. Norwegian, Edvard Grieg aspired to promote his homeland and painting with music was a phrase
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Am dram group sexing up Gilbert and Sullivan
WORCESTER Gilbert and Sullivan Society is on the look-out for artistic types who can bring the amateur dramatics group in to the 21st Century with style. Members of the society, which started life as The Gilbert and Sullivan Society of Worcester in 1973
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And they like it, they like it, they like it...
POP legends Status Quo are gearing up for their concert at Ragley Hall, near Alcester, next Sunday. Quo have had worldwide sales of more than 112 million, and have enjoyed 22 top 10 British hit singles. I caught up with the band's guitarist Rick Parfitt
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BiZali wins Music (Uncovered) slot
HEREFORD duo, BiZali will battle three other bands in Nottingham on live television tonight. The pair won over judges when they appeared in the semi-finals of ITV1 Central's new series, Music (Uncovered) last Friday, reaching the show's grand final. Throughout
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PHOENIX NIGHTS SERIES TWO Channel 4 Productions
IT'S fair to say funnyman Peter Kay and his hilarious pal Dave Spikey have created a timeless masterpiece in Phoenix Nights - and the second series provided me with a laugh a minute. The simple yet hilarious brand of humour surrounds wheelchair-bound
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The Classics with Annie Dendy
Manha de Carnaval. Guitar Music from Brazil. Graham Anthony Devine, guitar. Naxos DDD8.557295. THE guitar has played a huge part in the musical traditions of Brazil, especially in the last 100 years or so. Guitars were transportable, and the instrument
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Catch Iceland's Northern Light
AN unusual CD of Icelandic traditional music has been recorded by a Worcester woman who was born in north Iceland. Soprano Bra Grmsdttir, has recorded songs learnt from her father, and grandparents, as well as music found on manuscripts. She believes
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Learning curve with Teechers
WHEN Vicky Binns stepped out of the shoes of troublesome teenager Ollie Reynolds after four years in the long-running TV soap Emmerdale, she vowed to take her acting talents to the stage. And after spending a year away from the goings-on in Beckindale
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Bo' Selecta 2 Channel 4 Productions Cert 18
WHILE it does not cater for everyone's tastes and takes some getting used to, there is no escaping the hilarious allure of spoof fly-on-the-wall documentary Bo Selecta once you're hooked - and I am. The second series of the show following celebrity stalker
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Star-studded line-up
A FEAST of well known stars from stage and screen are heading for Bewdley for the picturesque riverside town's 17th festival. The nine-day festival, which takes place from Friday, October 8, to Saturday, October 16, is jam-packed with entertainment for
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The Classics with Annie Dendy Take this, not Five!
Dave Brubeck - Chromatic Fantasy Sonata, Five Pieces from Two Part Adventures, Tritonis, The Salmon Strikes, Rising Sun. Soloist - John Salmon, piano. Naxos 8.559212 THE memory of feeling very sophisticated and avant-garde came rushing back at the opening
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New Year's treat for concert-goers
NEW YEAR'S DAY CONCERT Midland Concert Orchestra Town Hall, Kidderminster THIS super concert has certainly become part of my New Year celebrations, but I was surprised at the number of empty seats - perhaps the inclement weather put people off, but they
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Les is loving play
POPULAR entertainer and television celebrity Les Dennis is set to take to the stage in Birmingham in a star-studded performance of the hit show Kiss Me Kate. The star - who made his name through popular ITV game show Family Fortunes - will be playing
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The Classics with Annie Dendy
Curtain Up! The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Michael Ball, Jose Carreras, Mary Carewe and others. Warner Classics 2564 61330-2. IF you enjoy the musicals and your choice of venue would be Broadway or Leicester Square for a night on the town, then this
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Keith Barret Show goes live
COMEDY gurus can enjoy a night of hearty entertainment when The Keith Barret Show goes live. Rob Brydon plays the hapless chauffeur Keith Barret, who first found notoriety in the award winning comedy Marion and Geoff. The character was given his own primetime
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Snorkel set to surface for gig at city ground
A LIVE music event featuring local bands is being held by Worcester City FC Supporters' Trust. The event is being held to raise funds for the newly-founded trust as well as giving people the chance to listen to some top music. Bands Snorkel and Sideways
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Mitchell will be in one of his off periods
THE cornerstone of Warren Mitchell's career has been the ability to play a character much older than himself and he's still at it at 78. The man who was only 40 when he erupted on to British television as the shock and awe pensioner Alf Garnett in 1965
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The Classics with Annie Dendy
Historic Saxophone - Claude and Odile Delangle. Bis CD -1270 Digital. TO many, the saxophone would be considered a "new" instrument, and in many ways they would be right. Invented by Belgian musician Adolphe Sax- who played the clarinet and flute - it
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Monkeys head to Marr's
PEOPLE who enjoy Celtic, Balkan, Gypsy, Spanish, or Cornish music will be able to hear these influences in the sounds of 3 Daft Monkeys. The Cornish band, who write their own songs, have varied musical backgrounds which range from dance, ska, and reggae
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Seasonal entertainment in store
THE winter season promises six months of entertainment thanks to a season of concerts organised by the Warwick Arts Society. The International String Quartet series at the Royal Pump Rooms, Leamington Spa, features ensembles from across Europe, kicking
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Swan setting perfect for Shakespeare play
IT would be difficult to come across a better theatre for a performance of Shakespeare's The Tempest than the Swan. That's the thought of one of the show's stars as actors from the Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, return to Worcester promising a mystical
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The Classics with Annie Dendy
Fazil Say Black Earth. Fazil Say, piano; Laurent Korcia, violin. Nave. Sometimes you take a chance - this CD is one, and is it different? Yes, very different. Fazil Say is Turkish, and has been playing music since he was a child. He started by studying
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Line dance floor filler boosts charity trust
A SONG, which is becoming a favourite on the line-dance floor, is helping raise funds for a disease that nearly spelt tragedy in one woman's life. Half the profits new CD, If I Can Have This Dance makes, will be donated to the Meningitis Trust. Meningitis
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Star's soul, pop & rock blend to stir NEC
ANASTACIA the vocalist with a big voice, will be bringing her blend of soul, pop and rock to Birmingham's NEC. The American chart sensation is set to enthral audiences with her Live at Last Tour at The NEC Arena on Wednesday, November 3. The tour coincides
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The Classics with Annie Dendy
Great Opera Recordings: Tosca by Puccini. Maria Callas, Guiseppe di Stefano, Tito Gobbi. Chorus and Orchestra of La Scala, Milan, conducted by Victor de Sabata. Naxos ADD 8.110256-57. MARK Obert-Thorn is one of the most respected transfer artistes/engineers
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Couple are set to jump back on the carousel once again
THE carousel just keeps on spinning for theatrical duo David Humphries and Rachel Price, who first set foot on the stage together 21 years ago and now form a dynamic team of producer and choreographer for a leading amateur dramatics society. David and
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Lindisfarne dilemma ends in a final fling
FOLLOWING the announcement of their retirement in November last year, Lindisfarne were faced with a predicament - should they proceed with their planned acoustic shows in 2004? After some considerable thought and soul-searching, it was decided that rather
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Swan play reads like a who's who in soaps
IT'LL be a battle of the soap stars when Frederick Nott's classic crime thriller Dial M For Murder opens at Worcester's Swan Theatre on September 13. Because the cast is full of "I remember him/her" characters. He/she was in..." Brookside, Neighbours,
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Big Band dream has been no small feat
Take a builder, a baker and a furniture maker and what have you got? No, not the modern reworking of a familiar nursery rhyme, but three ingredients in the gamut of musicians carefully mixed to cook up a traditional big band. And for one Worcestershire
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Classics and flags in alfresco answer to the proms
AN open-air concert featuring much-loved film theme classics and proms favourites is set to be performed in Malvern by the world-renowned English Symphony Orchestra tomorrow. A Night at the Movies and Proms Finale is being held at Malvern's Three Counties
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Girls' choir singing out for first time in public
HEREFORDSHIRE'S newly- formed girls' choir has given its first public concert. It took the form of a Christmas recital at the Bishop's Palace in Hereford, raising £200 for the Acorn's Children's Hospice. It was conducted by its director Nigel Hayward,
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Can you help boost Laura's new album?
AN up and coming solo artist, who is used to playing acoustic gigs, is looking for a guitarist and other musicians to help her promote a new album. Laura Thompson, who has just completed her second acoustic album, Inside Violet Clouds, is set to re-record
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Roll up for unique cabaret
ARTISTS in all fields are invited to the Arthouse caf in Worcester's CrownGate tonight to join in the first anniversary celebrations of Phillip Newth, a city based art project that specialises in alternative cabaret. A year ago, two Worcester-born youths
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Claire set to dock and jazz the night away
A SINGER who has previously won the Best British Vocalist category at the British Jazz Awards, will be showing off her talents when she comes to Worcester's Huntingdon Hall. Claire Martin won the Best British Vocalist category in 1995 at the British Jazz
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Behind the scenes on eve of festival
As you peruse this, dear reader, Huntingdon Arts will be girding its loins for the start of the Worcester Festival, and praying for good weather. The Festival has had months of planning and organisation. From the de-brief of last year's Festival in September
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Moving view of life Down Under
EVERYONE will be going Aussie-mad when an Australian film extravaganza takes place during the Worcester Festival. Movie buffs will be able to enjoy Strictly Ballroom, Rabbit-Proof Fence and comic hit the Dish when the movies are screened at The Swan Theatre
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Best new names on jazz scene in town
THE ninth Cheltenham International Jazz Festival will be bringing some of the hottest names in jazz to town, as well as providing a platform for some of the best new talent. Ranging from international legends to home-grown British stars, artists to hit
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Philharmonic seeks strings and brass
STRING and brass players interested in playing some orchestral masterpieces are in demand to join Worcester Philharmonic Orchestra. The orchestra is due to give four concerts to large audiences at Pershore Abbey next season, besides performances for children
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Club's lights to come on for the last time
THOUSANDS of clubbers will be left shocked at the news that The Rooms in Hereford is to close its doors for good at the beginning of May. The venue has provided a loyal home for club night Naughty But Nice for the past 10 years, and during that time every
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Tina's tales of warmth, woe and wit
JAZZ vocalist Tina May will be steering audiences through an evening of musical tales filled with woe, warmth and wit when she comes to Worcester's Huntingdon Hall. If you don't know who Tina is, you may have heard her performing the theme tunes to two
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The business in classical
LISTENING to Evelyn Glennie perform her critically acclaimed music, you'd never guess she was profoundly deaf. As Brian Wilson overcame his Achilles heel of hearing everything in mono, the elite percussionist, who normally appears on stage barefooted,
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Lights, lasers - action!
A SPECTACULAR show of lights, lasers and special effects will provide the backdrop to this year's acclaimed Classical Spectacular at Birmingham's National Indoor Arena. More than 250 performers are involved in the concert of all concerts on Saturday,
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Enjoyment and enthusiasm shines through
THE standard of amateur theatre is generally very high in Worcester. With some of the companies, it is outstanding. And not just the actors and singers who normally get all the credit - all the aspects of theatre are done very well. The companies have
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Interplanetary adventure lifts off at the Swan
SIXTY-four youngsters from a city drama group are gearing up for the rock 'n' roll musical Return to the Forbidden Planet, which launches into Worcester's Swan Theatre next week. Members of Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Society's Youth Section have
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Sir Peter lines up stars for the season
A STUNNING selection of plays whose cast include Penelope Keith (The Good Life, To the Manor Born) and the actress behind the 1980s TV policewoman Juliet Bravo, are being brought to Malvern this summer by the founder of the Royal Shakespeare Company.
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Study of relationships, sexuality and marriage
DISTINCTLY diverse interpretations of a work of art by a husband and wife provide the backbone to a new play taking centre stage at next month's Worcester Festival. Mouthpiece presents the UK premire of Ugly Art, by American playwright Terry Roueche,
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Theatre group at the cutting edge of touring dramatics
STROLL along the banks of Britain's canals and you'll probably see a tourist or three supping wine as they watch the world go by from the helm of their narrowboat home. Even A-list celebs such as Harrison Ford and Calista Flockhart have succumbed to the
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Take steps to catch some fancy footwork
BILLED as the David Beckhams of dance, the infamous Ballet Boyz are whirling their way into Tewkesbury's Roses Theatre on Saturday, September 18. The ex-Royal Ballet principal dancers burst on to our screens last year with their video diary documentaries
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Young thespians take on the Bard
YOUNG Thespians from Hereford's Courtyard Senior Youth Theatre are busy preparing for one of Shakespeare's "problem plays", Measure for Measure, which runs from Tuesday to Saturday, July 27-31. The company, which impressed audiences with One Flew Over
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Cousin's play captures Lee's experience of war
A PLAY dedicated to Laurie Lee's remarkable journey into war-torn Spain in the 1930s has been penned by the author's cousin for a debut in Cheltenham. A Winter of War, written by Paul Downey, runs in the Everyman Theatre's The Other Space from Monday,
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Line-up set to be far sunnier than showers
WITH a line-up ranging from a latter day Tommy Cooper to a poignant dance portrayal of family life, July at Huntingdon Arts' city arenas should be sunny with a smattering of showers. On Thursday, 15, funnymen John Moloney and Jim Tavare present a double
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Hostess with the mostest
FOLLOWING sell-out seasons in the West End, Moira Buffini's wicked comedy Dinner comes to Malvern Theatres on Monday as part of a national tour. Paige, hostess extraordinaire, has invited an artist, a scientist and a sexpot to celebrate the publication
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Roll out the red carpet as 'royalty' hits town
THE A449 to Malvern will probably be strewn with rose petals next week and no doubt the red carpet is ready and waiting, along with half a dozen hunky flunkies and a celebrity chef or two, because Joan Collins is in town. The lady is, I suppose, what
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Up close and personal with a master of magic
YOU'LL like this - but not a lot" is not exactly how Paul Daniels hopes to go down when he does an appearing act in Worcester next week. Although the notoriously cheesy magician fell out of favour with the nation during the early 90s with the rise of
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Swing along with Jungle Joe
Review - Jack and the Beanstalk at the Birmingham Hippodrome (until January 30) HAVING completely missed I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here! I hadn't warmed to Joe Pasquale the way the rest of the nation has. That was until I saw him in the eponymous
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Script crackles with wit for Lesley's latest lush character
LESLEY Joseph is one of those lovely ladies who invariably plays an over-the-top character on stage or screen, yet in real life is as down to earth as your best mate. She talks like a real friend, not some show biz prima donna and so I considered it only
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Tinsel town invades County Kerry
WHEN a major Hollywood film studio descends on a village in rural Ireland, the demand for extras from the local community is huge. Giving you the premise for Stones In His Pockets, where the absurdities involved in making a film are observed from the
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Production pours fresh milk on day in the life saga
UNDER Milk Wood is one of those classic entities, so well known on the one hand, so little known on the other. It's a bit like Worcester Cathedral or the Guildhall. You might pass them everyday, but when was the last time you actually went in? You probably
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Mixed night of Moore mayhem
WITH a mother called Peg, what chance did writer, performer, festival frolicker and all-round mischief-maker Marcus Moore ever have of fitting in? But the result has been a life of wonderful opportunities, outrageous scrapes and daft adventures, according
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Prepare for prince charming to whisk you off your feet European Ballet fairytale The Sleeping Beauty
WHO hasn't dreamt of being woken up by a kiss from a charming, handsome prince, only to be roused by a snorting pig? To many, the idea behind Sleeping Beauty may be as far-fetched as Evening News letter writer extraordine George Cowley ever getting it
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Opera fans to enjoy a double sitting
OPERA lovers have the chance to see Rossini's magical work Cinderella sung in Italian by Romanian opera stars. Between Thursday, May 13 and Saturday, May 15, Le Cenerentola is being performed by the Romanian State Opera Brasov in its mother tongue at
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It's Barry's first farewell, so have a topic prepared
PATRONS of Huntingdon Hall shouldn't be surprised tonight if they are stopped at the door and asked to pop a topic into a bucket. For this evening's legendary entertainment is no other than king of the one liner, Barry Cryer, who is out to prove he can
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Maugham humour comes to Malvern
SOMERSET Maugham's classic comedy The Constant Wife, one of London's biggest hits last summer, comes to Malvern Festival Theatre next week. Beautifully designed, costumed and performed, the revival pleased audiences so much on its initial run at Shaftesbury
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There's a Brand new name at The Courtyard
TOP comedienne Jo Brand has put a Herefordshire arts centre at the top of her menu. Ms Brand, who is famous for her sharp wit and cutting tongue, has agreed to become an honorary patron of The Courtyard, Herefordshire's Centre for the Arts, as it nears
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New version of operetta... 100 years on!
A DISTINGUISHED partnership is at the helm for a new performance of The Merry Widow at Worcester's Swan Theatre next month. Director Paul Milton and musical director Donald Hunt are both working with Great Witley Operatic Society for the first time on
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'Special relationship' holds the key to show
THEY walked the slow, studied, theatrical walk through Malvern's Priory Park for the benefit of the television cameras. Heads slightly bowed, as though in earnest conversation, like a couple discussing an impending divorce. Happily when Michelle Collins
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Titus Andronicus, RSC, Stratford
MUCH is written about and made of the horrors contained in Titus Andronicus. Rape, mutilation, cannibalism and murder have deterred many - and indeed this reviewer until now. It was with genuine trepidation that I sat before the Royal Shakespeare Theatre
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A Letter of Resignation The Rose Theatre Kidderminster, until Saturday.
FACT met fiction as resident group The Nonentities got the new season underway at The Rose. Sadly, the fact - the scandal surrounding John Profumo's affair with Christine Keeler in 1963 - was rather more riveting than the fiction. Hugh Whitemore's script
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Stepping Out Kidderminster Operatic and Dramatic Society Rose Theatre, Kidderminster.
FORMER professional dancer Denise Churchett was obviously in her element as Mavis, the dance teacher in Richard Harris's gentle comedy. A group of ladies, and one man, who each have problems in their lives, try to put their cares behind them for just
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Meditations, Kidderminster Library, until September 20
Meditations, Kidderminster Library, until September 20 VIBRANT colours and contrasting brush strokes allow Paul Langford's thought-provoking art exhibition Meditations to live up to its name. The Birmingham artist's collection of acrylics and oils on
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Thank-you Husum for the music
KIDDERMINSTER Male Choir and the Valentines ladies choir spent the Bank Holiday weekend in Germany, as guests of twin town Husum, to help celebrate the 400th anniversary of the German town's charter. VON STEWART joined in the fun. MY trip to Husum with
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Spy Kids 3D Game Over (U) UCI Cinema Merry Hill
SO there I was, sat slurping my bubble gum flavour slush puppie and donning my 3D glasses - yes, it was time to pretend to be a six-year-old again. The Cortez Family are at it again, saving the world, only this time they have to do it from inside a virtual
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Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines, 12A
THE visionary director of the first two Terminator films - who also struck gold with Aliens and Titanic - jumped ship (excuse the pun) for the third instalment of the series and his absence shows. Yet although James Cameron's skill for pace, action and
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Daddy Day Care (PG), UCI Cinema, Merry Hill
CHARLIE and Jamie are two advertising gurus with major hang-ups: they are spending too much time at work and not enough at play (with their kids). So, when their latest campaign "Veggio's-the vegetable cereal kids love to eat!" falls flat, losing them
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CHARLIE'S ANGELS - FULL THROTTLE (12A) UCI Cinema Merry Hill
CHARLIE'S ANGELS - FULL THROTTLE ( 12A) UCI Cinema Merry Hill FOR those of who enjoyed the first film, this one will blow you away! Fasten your seat belts and brace yourself for the ride of your life. Yes, the girls are back, kicking, screaming and even
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SIRENS: Entice Kidderminster Library
THE latest "Live at the Library" presentation by the Classical Music Society, was one of the most enjoyable concerts at this venue. Pianist Janine Smith, mezzo-soprano Dawn Foxall and soprano Diana Sharp provided a varied programme of songs and arias,
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A WINTER'S TALE Rose Theatre, Kidderminster Until June 14
A WINTER'S TALE Rose Theatre, Kidderminster Until Saturday A TALE of two halves awaits theatre-goers heading to see Shakespeare's fantastical play which generates radically different moods before and after the interval. It charts how wholly irrational
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CATCH ME IF YOU CAN UCI Cinema, Merry Hill
The story of Frank Abagnale Jr shows that teenagers really can make their dreams come true - as a Pan Am airline pilot, hospital doctor or qualified lawyer. The smooth-talking schoolboy just skips through the film, one step ahead of his FBI pursuers,
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GLENGARRY GLEN ROSS Rose Theatre, Kidderminster Until Saturday
THE Nonentities' inaugural offering of 2003 is perhaps a debatable choice - and one not helped by the decision to try to adopt American accents for David Mamet's script about desperate salesmen. Glengarry Glen Ross tells the story of four estate agents
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Paul's on the ball for this Wimbledon set
HERE'S a tip: Don't go near actor Paul Bettany if you're feeling even the slightest bit insecure about yourself, because this man sums up the phrase ''having it all''. Good looks, a thriving career, a bouncing baby boy and married to one of Hollywood's
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Pearce: I've got a great deal of sadness in me
Plenty of people would say actor Guy Pearce is a bit of a sexy beast, but he pales into insignificance next to his latest co-stars, a pack of real tigers. And while the Aussie heart-throb is clearly playing second fiddle to his majestic sidekicks in the
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All power to Lady P
WHEN actress Sophia Myles walks into the room, we aring a plain, white shirt and jeans, you do wonder whether her choice of nondescript outfit was a deliberate one. Because this is the young woman whose name will soon be synonymous with everything pink
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Glamour of adding personal wind effects
When you ponder the reasons for Hollywood queen Cameron Diaz being cast to voice Princess Fiona in Shrek and Shrek 2, being "down-to-earth" isn't the first thing that springs to mind. Gorgeous, sure. Highest-paid actress in Hollywood, definitely. The
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All the latest movies and where to catch them
Confessions of a teenage drama queen (pg) Lola Cep (Lindsay Lohan) is forced to move from glamorous New York to a new school in New Jersey. Odeon, Worcester (1.40, 4.00, 6.10, 8.20 Fri & Mon-Wed). UCI Merry Hill (11.10 Sat/Sun) 1.20, 3.40 VAN HELSING
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Nice to see you, Saffy - er, but where's Brad?
Just how lucky can a girl get? Actress Saffron Burrows is stunningly beautiful, has a figure to die for, and a flourishing stage and screen career. But forget all that. The reason this London-born star is the envy of just about every woman in the world
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Sword swinging Daryl's splash as blonde assassin
She shot to fame playing the embodiment of innocence as a beautiful mermaid in the hit film Splash. But while her latest role as a bloodthirsty assassin couldn't be more of a contrast, it's clear which one actress Daryl Hannah prefers. "This is the first
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Setting hearts a-flutter
ASHTON Kutcher may have a very impressive Hollywood career already, but there's no denying he's more famous for his romance with Demi Moore than for his acting. Despite roles in films like Cheaper By The Dozen and Just Married, with former girlfriend
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There's just no rhyme or reason why it flops
Dr Seuss will be spinning in his grave. This lurid adaptation of his popular tale The Cat In The Hat bears only scant resemblance to the original rhyme, which has been embellished with all manner of crude humour and narrative padding. After 20 minutes
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Jim Caviezel, Christ and controversy
Few films have attracted as much controversy as Mel Gibson's latest film, depicting the last 12 hours of Jesus' life. The Passion Of The Christ, which opens in the UK on Friday, March 26, has been attacked for alleged anti-semitism, which Gibson strongly
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Flicks line-up
VOLUNTEER promoters in Shropshire and Herefordshire have promised Flicks in the Sticks screenings will continue in 2005. Under the Tuscan Sun, Himalaya, Troy and King Arthur are just some of the choices available. For more details check www.artsalive.co.uk
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Seeing what LADS can do
LEDBURY Amateur Dramatic Society (LADS) is presenting The Owl and the Pussycat Went to See. From January 12-15 and January 19-22 at The Market Theatre, Ledbury, performances are at 7.30pm with matinees on the Saturdays at 2.30pm. The show is based on
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ANIMAL CROSSING
IN Animal Crossing everything occurs in real time, courtesy of a 24-hour clock and both seasonal and daily variations occur. Even when you're not playing Animal Crossing, things are still going on. This is a more realistic life simulator than The Sims
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Words for all occasions thanks to festival line-up
DELVE into the minds of celebrated authors while honing your own writing skills at this year's Cheltenham Festival of Literature from Friday to Sunday, April 2-4. Get your favourite book signed by the best new novelists or share your views about the world
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Malvern to enjoy double Doddy
TICKLING stick at the ready, laughter legend Ken Dodd returns to Malvern Theatres next month. Usually, the man from Knotty Ash plays just a one night stand, but this time his show will be on two consecutive nights - Tuesday and Wednesday, April 6 and
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Gran Turismo 4 "Prologue"
AS fans eagerly await the release of Gran Turismo 4 at the end of the year, Sony release a taster of what fans can expect in the form of Gran Turismo 4 "Prologue." Gamers can expect what can be described as "diet" Gran Turismo or a glorified demo. Glorified
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Carrott lands role in Brummie story
POPULAR Midlands comedian Jasper Carrott has been named in the cast of the hit Birmingham musical Go Play Up Your Own End. The show was a huge hit for Birmingham's Alexandra Theatre earlier this year and is set to pull in the crowds again when it starts
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What's on guide
Wednesday January 5 FILM: Motorcycle Diaries, mac, Cannon Hill Park, Edgbaston, Birmingham, 6pm. EXHIBITION: 1960 - 2004 Bromsgrove and Birds, Bromsgrove Library, Stratford Road, Bromsgrove. SINGLES: Live Wyres, New Inn, Ombersley Road, Worcester, 8.45pm
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What's On in city and county
Clubs/classes/societies Mon Ongoing: Mon: Every fortnight, Stable Art Club, Stable Studio, 10am-2pm. 01432 353216. Ongoing: T'ai Chi; Mon 7pm, (Holmer Church Hall), Tues 6.15pm (St Johns Church), Thurs 9.30am (Hampton Park United Reform Church), beginners
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Silent Hill 3
Considering the prequel to this game was labelled as a fear evoking psychological experience which would reduce grown men to a cowering wreck, it is a tough task for Konami to create a game even parallel to the mighty Silent Hill 2. Yet again gamers are
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Beauty and the Beast, Royal Shakespeare Theatre
FROM the Matrix-like black robed figures at the start to the red-eyed wolves that roam the forests of the mind - this was a magnetic Beauty and The Beast back once again at Stratford. Surprisingly humour played a large part. There was an hilarious introduction
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Venus and Adonis, The Other Place, Stratford
"TOUCH but my lips with those fair lips of thine" - thus Venus beseeches Adonis in Shakespeare's sensuous and voluptuous theme. The Other Place was host to an hour of magic in this masque for puppets. The beautifully crafted proscenium was an ever-changing
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Darren Hayes Wolverhampton Civic
FORMER Savage Garden frontman, Darren Hayes, has cultivated quite a following and they were out in force as he played to a packed hall at the Civic. His emergence into a stage set that was half modern trendy apartment, half recording studio, provoked
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WEST SIDE STORY Wyre Forest Young Voices, Kidderminster Town Hall
ON Saturday former Young Voices Russell Painter, Beth Dunn and Laura Bassett, led the youngsters in a concert performance of a condensed version of Leonard Bernstein's masterpiece, and it was brilliant. As Tony, Russell treated us to a superb rendition
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DAVID CHADWICK and ROBERT MARKHAM Kidderminster Library
THE third in the series of Classical Music Society recitals featuring artistes from Birmingham Conservatoire was, as always, of a very high standard. Previous concerts in the series featured pianist David Quigley, and a wind trio called "No Strings Allowed
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MUSIC OVER THE YEARS Stourport Choral and Operatic Society's Celebration of 40 years of song
AS far as I am concerned, you can never go wrong with Gilbert and Sullivan, so I was delighted to see that the first half of this anniversary evening was a potted, concert version of HMS Pinafore. Mike Birch was brilliant as Sir Joseph Porter KCB, and
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Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds Wolverhampton Civic Hall
LIKE David Bowie before him, Nick Cave has won a huge cult following by balancing his love of discordant, semi-avant garde songwriting with melodic pop songs which retain the twist heart of his most daring work. Sunday's show in Wolverhampton leaned towards
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BETTY DAVIS MEMORIAL CONCERT, Hartlebury Castle, for Kemp Hospice.
THIS year, the annual fund-raising concert starred The Sirens - Janine Smith (piano), Diana Sharp (soprano) and Dawn Foxall (mezzo soprano), and pianist Paul Fisher. Mr Fisher began with his own work Now the Green Blade Rises, which comprises variations
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DOUBLE TROUBLE Rose Theatre, Kidderminster Until Saturday.
POINTLESS, silly and puerile, are the words which sum up the first of this double bill, presented in a joint venture between the Swan Playwrights and the Nonentities. Shagathon, by Nicholas Corder, tells the story of Dave, who aspires to be the next Becks
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The Zutons Wulfrun Hall, Wolverhampton
LAST weekend the Zutons cancelled the remaining dates of their UK tour after drummer Sean Payne was struck down by a severe viral infection. And having been fortunate enough to catch them in action in Wolverhampton, I would strongly advise anyone with
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Boogie Nights 2 Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton (until Saturday)
BOOGIE Nights is back - and this time it's the 1980s with stiletto heels, padded shoulders, puffball skirts, Bob Geldof and Maggie Thatcher. The whole feel of the decade is really brought to life in this musical which has an all-star cast of David Essex
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THE ANDY WARHOL SYNDROME Jenny Eclair Ramada Hotel, Bewdley
THE Andy Warhol Syndrome is Jenny Eclair's hard-hitting one woman comedy play which reflects the current obsession with reality television and the consequences on those living Andy Warhol's prophecy. We explore the life of Carol Fletcher, a faded ex-reality
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Duo says it straight with the politics of Crooked Man song
EYEBROWS are set to be raised in Worcester next week as a controversial song touching on global politics is aired in the city in the wake of the US elections. Show of Hands - one of England's most successful acoustic roots duos - will perform the song
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It's a tight squeeze to watch Nick on stage!
MUSIC fans will be "squeezing" themselves into Worcester's Marr's Bar on Sunday as highly accomplished guitarist Nick Harper comes to the city for a gig. The former Squeeze member's distinctive and soulful voice - as well as his guitar playing - has earnt
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A fascinating mix of music that's well worth exploring
THE term 'it's a small world' springs to mind when you hear how two members of the up-and-coming music act Angel Brothers met. Percussionist and co-founder member Keith Angel, from a small pit village near Doncaster - was travelling around Spain about
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Who needs Morrissey?
FORMER English indie band The Smiths continue to attract scores of fans long after their split - but one such person also has the added bonus of playing in a band with two of its members. A chance meeting between musician Vinny Peculiar - aka Alan Wilkes
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The Price, Malvern Theatres run until until Saturday
SUPERBLY written with some wonderful, witty dialogue, Arthur Miller's play The Price provided a perfect evening's entertainment. Set against the backdrop of the "Great Depression", the play explores family relations and how money, or lack of it, can affect
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DAISY PULLS IT OFF Rose Theatre
"JOLLY hockeysticks" abound in this tale of a "posh" girls school, where the students are horrified to learn that an elementary schoolgirl has won a scholarship to their establishment. Among the pranks and midnight feasts, there is much snobbery, and
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It's Blues by name and Blues by nature
WHO would have thought a couple of men singing soul and rhythm and blues numbers wearing dark suits, shades and hats would have gained such a cult following? However the music from the film The Blues Brothers has proved the critics wrong and endured the
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Rock gods' whole lotta love for cover band
ATTEMPTING to mimic the sound of such a hugely-influential rock and roll band as Led Zeppelin and gain the backing of their fans would appear enough of a challenge. To then also win over the band itself and have its members appear at your gigs would just
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SOUNDS OF STAGE AND SCREEN Kidderminster Town Hall, Saturday
THE only word I can think of to sum up this concert is "Wow". David Howles's idea to invite the concert-goers of Kidderminster to his birthday bash was inspired, and the talented singers of Wyre Forest combined with the Bostin' Pops Orchestra - new to
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Spectacular spooks
AUDIENCES can expect a gig with a spooky difference in Worcester this month - as a city band brings classic horror film Nosferatu to life. The Method - who have been playing together for the past five or so years - will be playing their Hallowe'en gig
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A major musical extravaganza to help boost charity funds
AWORCESTER musician whose brother was in an horrific car accident last year is organising a musical extravaganza in the city to raise funds for the charity that saved his life. Thirty-year old Jeremy May, of Perdiswell, Worcester, spent six weeks in hospital
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Jesus Christ Superstar Birmingham Hippodrome Running until Saturday, September 18
BILL Kenwright's new production is a polished show with all the essential ingredients of a theatrical smash. The world premiere of the musical charting the last seven days of Christ's life boasted a striking musical score and strong cast, including former
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The new Joni Mitchell
THE NEW Tracey Chapman, Sheryl Crow, Indigo Girls... the complimentary comparisons are coming in thick and fast. But then when you hear Bristol-born singer-songwriter Amy Wadge's distinctive voice - which has also been likened to Joni Mitchell's - you
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Super smooth sax in the city
IT WILL be a case of "Back with Sax" as opposed to "Back In Black" next week as the renowned contemporary saxophonist Scott Hamilton brings his silky-smooth musical skills to Worcester. The fifty-year-old performer was born in Providence, Rhode Island
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You'll go wild for Mr Wilde!
IT'S not every day you get to see a 65-year-old man reeling out tunes such as Teenager in Love to a huddle of adoring fans. But that is exactly what renowned musician Marty Wilde will be doing when he plays Worcester's Huntingdon Hall on Saturday, October
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Building up to something big
A HUGE weight of expectation is riding behind new rock band Carbon/Silicon. But then it's not hard to see why when you discover the driving force behind the group is none other than punk pioneer Mick Jones and old friend and equally-talented musician
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Catch concert and win CD of Wyman
THERE will be plenty of "Stones" in the Malvern Hills next week as legendary rocker Bill Wyman rolls into the town. No one could argue that the former bassist with one of the most influential British bands of all time - The Rolling Stones - lacks experience
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Valentines, Kidderminster Arts Festival, Town Hall
A CUDDLY baboon stole the show on Saturday night, having been taken along by Mary Baulk, who runs the Butterfly Puppet Theatre. Throughout the evening, when the emphasis was on fun for children (of all ages), Mrs Baulk and her collection of animals encouraged
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Glenn's squeezed out of the shadows
BEING the songwriter and frontman of a band whose career has spanned more than two decades would be considered an achievement in itself. But dedicated musician Glenn Tilbrook has since stepped out of the shadows of major pop act Squeeze after more than
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All classics are covered
ANTHEMIC classics such as Baggy Trousers by Madness and Watching the Detectives by Elvis Costello are set to be aired at Worcester's Marrs Bar tonight as rockers Funky Skunk take to the stage. The seven-piece band consists of members from many a local
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Janis is back with self-penned songs
MUSIC fans can be prepared to be blown away as a couple of stars, whose careers have spanned the decades ,take to the stage at Worcester's Huntingdon Hall. American singer-songwriter Janis Ian began playing piano at the tender age of two-and-a-half, taking
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Legend hits the road
FANS of talented rock artist Van Morrison, pictured below, will be delighted to hear he is booked in to play Cheltenham this month. The legendary musician - who has had a string of hits over his 30-plus-year career including Gloria and Have I Told You
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Hall showcases a variety of talents
THE sounds of Black Country comedy and music will be heading to Worcester this month as the city's Huntingdon Hall plays host to a couple of big-name acts. The cream of Black Country entertainment will be appearing at the venue on Friday, September 17
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Neighbours to clash in cup thriller
NEIGHBOURS are set to lock horns as underdogs Droitwich Spa RFC take on hot favourites Bromsgrove in the quarter finals of the North Midlands Cup. Relegation threatened Droitwich face an uphill task if they are to book their place in the semi-finals by
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Be blown away as Rainmaker storm in
UP-and-coming Worcester band Rainmaker are looking to create a storm on the music scene with their explosive new sound. The three-piece rock 'n' roll band formed in January this year after 24-year-old drummer Jamie May, from Perdiswell, Worcester, received
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Old boys end Rovers' five game winning run
Stourport Swifts 2 Bromsgrove Rovers 1 BROMSGBROVE'S five game unbeaten run in the league was brought to an abrupt halt by a youthful Swifts side containing several Bromsgrove old boys on January 3. Former Rover Mark Atkinson was a mini-marvel for the
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Indie icons Muse blow them away
THERE were a few dishevelled figures wandering among the giant foam footballers and ever-present waft of hot dogs on Sunday morning. Big Brovaz, The Divine Comedy, and Athlete were the first three bands to open Sunday's festival on the V Stage. They were
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Returning striker hands Villa victory
Fairfield Villa 2 Littleton 1 STRIKER Lloyd Dawkins marked his return to the Recreation Ground by scoring the winning goal in January 3's battle. Dawkins, on his debut since returning from his unsuccessful move to Barnt Green Spartak, fired home the winner
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Fins and Ferdinand hit Wolverhampton
TWO exciting music names have announced live gig dates at Wolverhampton Civic Hall. Finnish rockers The Rasmus and cool cats Franz Ferdinand will both be playing at the venue on separate autumn tour dates. The Rasmus, whose music has been described as
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Sensation stuns with Gershwin
A WORLD class British jazz singer will be joined by a trio of top musicians when a special charity night is held to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Relief. Vocalist Lee Gibson will be accompanied by pianist Geoff Eales, bassist Roy Babbington and drummer
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THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE Baxter College, Kidderminster.
IT was great to see the young folk of Kidderminster Operatic and Dramatic Society's youth section (KODYS) so obviously enjoying themselves while entertaining us last week. This was a shortened version of the Gilbert and Sullivan favourite, but most of
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Happy hardcore DJ contest's club night spin-off in mixer
A HARD House DJ competition is gearing up for its final round at Worcester's Caesar's Nightclub. Three DJs beat of stiff competition from 12 other contestants when the first round of the event took place a fortnight ago. Now it will be all hands to the
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Eyes out for boy band star
ALL eyes will be on Birmingham this Sunday when a boy band search for a fourth male singer, to release a charity single. New boy band All Eyes, will be in The Bull Ring from 10am. They are set to release their first single, She's A Vision, in October
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Band nearing Fever pitch
WORCESTERSHIRE-based groove-rock band The Fever are rehearsing for their latest tour of Midlands' venues. The band consists of Neil Ivison on vocals and guitar, George Elliott on bass and vocals, Adam Barry on organ and piano and Lee on drums. They have
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Be prepared for some classic rock when Bryan hits Brum
WHO can forget classic rock ballads such as Summer Of 69, and Heaven? Well, Bryan Adams, singer of the above chant-along hits will be returning to The NEC Arena for a live show of such hits on Tuesday, October 26. Bryan Adams' career spans more than 25
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Elkie promises some sunshine after the rain
ELKIE Brooks, whose career took off after supporting The Beatles on the early 1960s, will be the star name on the bill when she plays on the first night of the Worcester Festival. Elkie who embraces rock ballads, blues and jazz, is the biggest-selling
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DUNCAN HONEYBOURNE Kidderminster Library Classical Music Society
ON Friday night, after Duncan Honeybourne's performance of his Piano Sonata number one, composer John Joubert commented: "That was exactly right" - praise indeed. And that phrase sums up the entire programme, which was well-balanced, mixed between popular
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Mix of music on offer for charity event
THE Relics will take people on a trip down memory lane when they play music from the 60s and 70s in aid of Cancer Research. The four-piece will be playing at The Vine pub, Ombersley Road, Worcester on Sunday at 7.30pm. Admission is free, and there will
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Look out for lice!
THE best New Year's resolution parents can make this January is to be on the lookout for head lice, Worcestershire residents are being told. This time of year is when head lice are most commonly transmitted, and parents are urged to look for them and
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THE VALENTINES IN CONCERT Town Hall, Kidderminster.
ANYONE who did not enjoy Saturday's concert must be very hard to please. We enjoyed a relaxed evening of music-making, featuring not only our Valentines, but the Blaenavon Male Choir, Russell Painter and Jonathan French. The men did well to get through
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Hero puts trust in DJ
STRATFORD lads Antihero have just released their latest single, Don't Trust The DJ. The record has been released through Alpha Engineering Records, and it can be ordered from any shop in the country with the following details - Band: Antihero, Single:
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Make this a date
FOLK lovers should make a date in their diary for a visit by talented singer and guitar player James Keelaghan. James is renowned for looking to the past for musical inspiration and his most celebrated songs tell the stories of extraordinary events from
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Raise cash for kidney research
RESIDENTS in Worcestershire are being urged to don their trainers and get adventurous to raise money for county kidney disease sufferers. "The new year is often a time for life-changing decisions, but yours do not need to be that radical to make a difference
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Wowing the crowds at Ross's big festival
A NUMBER of acts signed to Kidderminster College's MAS Records will be wowing the crowds when they take part in the 2004 Ross-on-Wye International Festival. Episonic, from Bristol, will be joined by other MAS acts The Boswells, Girls Love Ponies, King
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Planning
A PLANNING application to build a single-story side extension to a property in St Joseph's Close, Droitwich, will be considered by Wychavon District Council.
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CHINESE STATE CIRCUS Oldington Park, Kidderminster
FOR an evening of breathtaking stunts, juggling dexterity and exhausting acrobatics, there can be no better place than at ringside of the circus. From the opening tumblers, we knew we were in for some exciting entertainment, and were soon treated to a
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Looking forward to going back on road
SINCE the release of her debut album Call Off The Search last autumn, Katie Melua has gone from being an unknown artist to the most successful artist in Britain this year. Following on from her debut sell-out tour here earlier this year, festival appearances
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Classical beginning
THE New Year will kick off in style with a performance of classical music at Droitwich Concert Club. The Dante Quartet will play music by Beethoven, Brahms and Rubbra at Droitwich Spa Methodist Church, Worcester Road, on Saturday, January 8, at 7.30pm
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Ad Lib return
MALVERN based DJ Ad Lib returns to the Octagon Bar at St Ann's Well Cafe, Great Malvern tonight to deliver a selection of chilled beats & funk-soul grooves. n A night of roots and dub, old school and new DJs will be taking place against the glorious
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Childcare workshop offered
DROITWICH residents thinking of a career in childcare can attend an informative workshop to be held in Hampton Lovett. The Step One into Childcare course will run at De Salis Court on Wednesday, January 19, between 9am and 3pm. Step Two of the course
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No maths today - instead it's sex, signing and how newspapers work
SEX, drugs and the media were just some of the issues discussed by pupils during a Citizenship Day at a Worcester school. Students yesterday returned to Christopher Whitehead High School after the Christmas break to find the usual timetable swapped for
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Babyshambles Wrekin View, Telford
THIS country pub near Telford was "the" place to be for any self-respecting indie fan last Thursday night when Babyshambles came to the Midlands for a hastily arranged and very secret gig. If you don't know, Babyshambles is the side-project of Libertines
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Debut night for new keyman
PEOPLE who enjoy a good dance to music as diverse as Travis, Paul Weller, The Kinks, Reef and Britney, will find that Worcester band Medford are just the ticket. Medford will be bringing their popular and hip cover versions to Worcester's Marr's Bar,
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Plenty of room for jazz Croome
JAZZ-lovers can enjoy a live performance by violinist Ralph Allin and his band at Croome Park, near Upton-upon-Severn, tomorrow. The event is taking place at the Church of St Mary Magdalene, in the park, and kicks of at 7.30pm. Gates open at 6.30pm, and
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HELLO DOLLY Stourport Choral and Operatic Society Civic Centre, Stourport
JUDITH Standing forsook her usual position as musical director to take the title part in this happy musical, handing over her baton to Tim Hackett. Claire Worboys also stepped over the footlights, as director and choreographer. When I say Judith appeared
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Funnyman on stage in Ayckbourn comedy
ON stage and on screen funnyman Matthew Cottle has been keeping audiences entertained for years. And his trip to Malvern Theatres next week is no exception. Best-known for his role as inadequate banker Martin in the hit 90s sitcom Game On, Matthew Cottle
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Pirouetting pair prepare to step in to ballet limelight tonight
CHRISTMAS has come early for two talented young dancers from Worcester who have won parts in the nation's favourite festive production The Nutcracker which begins a 13-night run at the Birmingham Hippodrome tonight. Amy Gwynn and Thomas Edwards, both
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Acting's second nature to this sassy Cinderella
WHILE the rest of us are busy finalising our Christmas card list and totting up how many presents we need to buy this year, the festive celebrations are temporarily at the back of the minds of two of the stars of this year's Swan Theatre pantomime. Although
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Punk-rocking to the sound of the Seventies
THE angry, late 1970s will be revisited when the city's first big punk rock festival shakes the walls of Worcester Arts Workshop tomorrow. There will be 25 acts, and gig-goers will be able to see top UK touring bands play alongside Worcester bands in
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Sailor Beware, Rose Theatre, Kidderminster Until Saturday.
THERE are bossy women, very bossy women, and then there is Emma Hornett, who could boss for England. Joan Wakeman excels as the matriarch of the family, whose domineering actually derives from her love of, and ambitions for, her family. She has for so
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See Nick on stage in Wolverhampton
NICK Cave and the Bad Seeds will be gigging at Wolverhampton Civic Hall on Sunday, November 7. Nick, the son of an English teacher and a librarian, brought a rare intelligence to the post-punk scene of the early 80s. His pre-Bad Seeds band The Birthday
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Kelis brings her milkshake to V
KELIS, R & B's most appetising songstress will be stepping up to complete the V2004 bill fresh from her monster chart hit Milkshake. Also joining Kelis in the festival line-up, will be Kevin Mark Trail, Fried, Rodrigo Y Gabriela, and Rooster. Kelis
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Right, all we need to do now is find a leading man...
TICKETS for the Swan Theatre Amateur Company's production of Alan Ayckbourn's Joking Apart are selling like hot cakes despite the fact it does not even start its two week run at the Swan Theatre until February. But there is a slight problem - the company
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Su all set to star in Annie
SU Pollard is remembered by millions as loveable cleaner Peggy in the hugely popular sit-com Hi-de-Hi. But she is a highly talented and versatile actress with numerous television and stage credits. Her most recent role, for which she has won rave reviews
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Put on your dancing shoes and follow the Disciples
PARTY-poopers are not the sort of audience expected to turn up to a Disciples gig, as the band like to see everyone strutting their stuff on the dance floor. The Disciples, who play cover versions of all types of songs, ranging from rock 'n' roll to punk
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Hunting for ghosts is the new gardening
A RENOWNED ghost hunter has made it his mission to pursue the paranormal across the length and breadth of Britain and nowhere has been ignored - including Worcestershire. Richard Felix, star of Living TV's Most Haunted, visited the county as part of his
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Band's message should set some alarm bells ringing
EVERYONE knows the saying, never judge a book by its cover, but that's exactly what critics did when it came to the Alarm's new record. After 21 years in the rock and roll business, the band knew the possibility of being snapped up on the critics hit
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Frayn's comic look at British abroad in Cuba
FANS of BBC 1's Monarch of the Glen will instantly recognise Lloyd Owen as Hector's illegitimate son Paul who has recently taken up the role as laird of Glenbogle. But as well as seeing the heart-throb grace TV screens on Sunday nights, audiences at Malvern
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Glam and glitz cuts through generations
Dig out your glam rags, funky flares, and glitter at the ready, for T.Rextasy, the ultimate tribute band to Marc Bolan & T.Rex are about to hit Worcester. T-Rextasy are not to be mistaken for any of the current cabaret style bands that don wigs just
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THE LAST SAMURAI, Certificate 15
TOP Gun becomes Shogun in this epic tale of honour and conflict between eastern and western cultures. Tom Cruise stars as American soldier Nathan Algreb who is headhunted by the Japanese Emperor to defeat the country's Samurai warriors so an arms treaty
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Three women with a New Age fixation
WHAT do you do when three women you know all reach a stage in their lives when they develop an interest in New Age beliefs? Kim and Lynn Davies, a husband and wife team from Evesham, claim to know three such women and used them as inspiration for a fascinating
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Double helping of the Artful Dodger
NEARLY 40 years after Jack Wild shot to fame as the Artful Dodger in the hit Oscar winning 60s musical Oliver!, his fans are in for a double treat. At Christmas, not only is Jack starring as Baron Hardup in Worcester Swan Theatre's pantomime Cinderella
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COLD MOUNTAIN On general release at cinemas nationwide
IT is little wonder this movie, which charts the effects of the American Civil War on a group of people whose lives are intertwined by love, desperation and sheer hopelessness, has been nominated for 13 BAFTAs and is expected to shine at the Oscars. Boasting
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Hot Strings' new dawn for classics
VIRTUOSO violinist Beverley Davison and her female musicians Hot Strings have taken the performance of classical music, given it a kick up the backside and made it fun. Forget the staid and stuffy traditions you might expect from a stereotypically sophisticated
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And they like it, they like it, they like it...
POP legends Status Quo are gearing up for their concert at Ragley Hall, near Alcester, next Sunday. Quo have had worldwide sales of more than 112 million, and have enjoyed 22 top 10 British hit singles. I caught up with the band's guitarist Rick Parfitt
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BiZali wins Music (Uncovered) slot
HEREFORD duo, BiZali will battle three other bands in Nottingham on live television tonight. The pair won over judges when they appeared in the semi-finals of ITV1 Central's new series, Music (Uncovered) last Friday, reaching the show's grand final. Throughout
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The Classics with Annie Dendy
Manha de Carnaval. Guitar Music from Brazil. Graham Anthony Devine, guitar. Naxos DDD8.557295. THE guitar has played a huge part in the musical traditions of Brazil, especially in the last 100 years or so. Guitars were transportable, and the instrument
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Catch Iceland's Northern Light
AN unusual CD of Icelandic traditional music has been recorded by a Worcester woman who was born in north Iceland. Soprano Bra Grmsdttir, has recorded songs learnt from her father, and grandparents, as well as music found on manuscripts. She believes
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Ding-dong night at the opera
Il Campanello - Gaetano Donizetti. Historic recording from 1949, featuring Sesto Bruscantini, Renato Capecchi, Miti Truccato Pace and Orchestra Lincae Coro de Torino della RIA. Warner Fonit 5050467-1044-2-6 Gaetano Donizetti was born of poverty-stricken
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Out of the darkness cometh the light
THE Lightness are a tribute band to The Darkness and even dress like the lads. The band, who hail from Kidderminster, Bewdley and Bridgnorth, are beginning to tour the country, and have been playing such places as Edinburgh, Swansea and Liverpool. Now
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Bo' Selecta 2 Channel 4 Productions Cert 18
WHILE it does not cater for everyone's tastes and takes some getting used to, there is no escaping the hilarious allure of spoof fly-on-the-wall documentary Bo Selecta once you're hooked - and I am. The second series of the show following celebrity stalker
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Star-studded line-up
A FEAST of well known stars from stage and screen are heading for Bewdley for the picturesque riverside town's 17th festival. The nine-day festival, which takes place from Friday, October 8, to Saturday, October 16, is jam-packed with entertainment for
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The Classics with Annie Dendy Take this, not Five!
Dave Brubeck - Chromatic Fantasy Sonata, Five Pieces from Two Part Adventures, Tritonis, The Salmon Strikes, Rising Sun. Soloist - John Salmon, piano. Naxos 8.559212 THE memory of feeling very sophisticated and avant-garde came rushing back at the opening
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A few minor hiccups but festival was a big success
So the Festival has finished for another year. We always greet the final fireworks with a mixture of sorrow that's it's all over, and relief that we can start getting our lives back to something like normal, or as normal as it ever is working for Huntingdon
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The Classics with Annie Dendy A Swedish nightingale
My Love. Soloist Malena Ernman. Guitar soloist/accompanist Mats Bergstrom. Bis NL CD 5020. Here is a compilation of some very varied and very different music. It is sung by Swedish mezzo-soprano Malena Ernman - and what a find she is! She has a wonderfully
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Les is loving play
POPULAR entertainer and television celebrity Les Dennis is set to take to the stage in Birmingham in a star-studded performance of the hit show Kiss Me Kate. The star - who made his name through popular ITV game show Family Fortunes - will be playing
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Charity record could be Jamie's big break
RENOWNED singer and songwriter Jamie Knight is set for his big break after being chosen to be part of an international music compilation in aid of charity. The Greatest Music You've Never Heard, Volume 1, is to help raise money for breast cancer research
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The Classics with Annie Dendy
Curtain Up! The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Michael Ball, Jose Carreras, Mary Carewe and others. Warner Classics 2564 61330-2. IF you enjoy the musicals and your choice of venue would be Broadway or Leicester Square for a night on the town, then this
