ART BEAT – E-NEWSLETTER – February 2010

This e-newsletter can also be downloaded from the council’s web site at www.shepway.gov.uk/arts, together with last month’s Art Beat.

CULTURAL EVENTS IN SHEPWAY IN FEBRUARY 

THIS EVENING (4^th), 8pm: FILM SCREENING OF ALIEN (1979) at Quarterhouse, Tontine Street, Folkestone. Tickets £3.50 for 18+. Box Office: 01303 858500; www.quarterhouse.co.uk

FRIDAY 5^th, 8pm: 2010: A SPACE ODDITY at Quarterhouse, Tontine Street, Folkestone – theatrical comedy from Gavin Robertson who famously brought Thunderbirds F.A.B to the West End; “Theatre at its brilliant best” – The Guardian. Tickets £10. Box Office: 01303 858500; www.quarterhouse.co.uk

SATURDAY 6^th & 20^th 10am – 12noon: LOCAL ARTISTS’ ART & CRAFTS on sale at the Sandgate Farmers’ Market, Chichester Hall, Sandgate - Wayne Reeves with local prints, greetings cards and ready-made picture frames, Chris and Julie Bone with Chris's originals, prints, greetings cards and shopping bags by Julie with Chris's local images on them, Debbie Croft with hand made art greetings cards and Miranda Best’s bead jewellery. For more information, or to book a stall, email: mirandabest_at_talktalk_dot_net.

SATURDAY 6^th: SEAN LOCK at Quarterhouse. SOLD OUT

SATURDAY 6^th, 7.30pm: CELEBRITY RECITAL at the United Reformed Church, Radnor Park, Folkestone – operatic baritone Philip Spendley with soprano Milda Smalakyte and pianist Daniel Ruis Cecconello. Tickets £8 (children £1) at the door. Enquires: 01303 242694.

SUNDAY 7^th, 2.30pm: DUDE! WHERE’S MY TEDDY BEAR? at Quarterhouse, Tontine Street, Folkestone. £5 adult, £4 child £15 family; Sunday Family Show...plus Free children's workshop 11am - 1pm - bring your teddy bear! Box Office: 01303 858500; www.quarterhouse.co.uk

WEDNESDAY 10^th, 7pm: DAVID COWELL’S SANDGATE IN PEOPLE, PROSE & POEMS at Chichester Hall, Sandgate - a piece for three voices, the production will tell the history of Sandgate through its residents.

WEDNESDAY 10^th, 8pm: LEE MACK at the Leas Cliff Hall. SOLD OUT

FRIDAY 12^th, 8pm: 2Faced Dance Company at Quarterhouse, Tontine Street, Folkestone – athletic, award-winning dance performance. Tickets £10. Box Office: 01303 858500; www.quarterhouse.co.uk

FRIDAY 12^th, 7.30pm: STEPHEN TRIFFITT – SINATRA LIVE AT THE SANDS at The  Leas Cliff Hall, Folkestone – offering a glimpse of the genius that was Frank Sinatra, plus 17-piece Big Band Orchestra. Box Office: 01303 228600; www.leascliffhall.co.uk

SATURDAY 13^th, 10.20am: COFFEE CONCERT at United Reformed Church, Radnor Park, Folkestone. Tickets £3 at the door. Enquiries: 01303 242694.

SATURDAY 13^th, 8pm: LAUGHING BOY COMEDY CLUB at Quarterhouse, Tontine Street, Folkestone. Tickets £10; 16+. Box Office: 01303 858500; www.quarterhouse.co.uk

Sunday 14^th, 2pm: PANeK Presents: Skill Share 1: Movement and Dance at Quarterhouse, Tontine St, Folkestone. £5: Box Office: 01303 858500.

A lively mixture of discussion and performance with three companies talking about, and showing, their work:

·       Kristin Fredricksson of Beady Eye will talk briefly about the process of making the show 'Everything Must Go' with her 78 year old dad.

·       SeedSew will present three excerpts of 'Our Euphoria', interspersed with discussion of the material.

·       SichtLautTrio is made up of dancer Geraldo Si (ex Pina Bausch), Kent-based musician David Leahy and his double bass. Their performances are totally improvised, full of life, spontaneity and humour.

For further information, visit: www.panek.org.uk or email cathy_at_panek_dot_org_dot_uk

SUNDAY 14^th, 3pm: CANTERBURY CHRIST CHURCH UNIVERSITY WIND ORCHESTRA at St Mary & St Eanswythe Parish Church, The Bayle, Folkestone – programme to include excerpts from ‘The Mighty voice’ by Paul Patterson and John Williams’ film score ‘Star Wars’.

17^th – 20^th, 7.30pm: FHODS PRESENTS ‘PACK OF LIES’ at The Tower Theatre, North Road, Shorncliffe, Folkestone. Written by award-winning author Hugh Whitemore and directed by Anne Mortimer, the play concerns how the life of a very ordinary family is suddenly turned upside down on discovering that their best friends are spying for the Russians. Tickets £9.00/£8.00 concessions are on sale now for party bookings as well as individual sales. Contact the Box Office on 01303 223925

18^th – 20^th, 7pm (& 2pm matinee on Saturday): THE THWARTING OF BARON BOLLIGREW a comedy by Stage One Drama Group at Sandgate Road Methodist Church, Folkestone. Tickets £5 adults, £2.50 children, available from The Vine Book Shop in Cheriton Place or on the door. For further information, email: m_dot_robertson7_at_hotmail_dot_com

THURSDAY 18th, 12noon: LUNCHTIME PIANO RECITAL BY MIYUKI KATO at St Leonard’s Church, Hythe. Music by Beethoven, Sibelius, Rachmaninov, Tchaikovsky and Chopin. Tickets £5 on sale at Brandon’s Music Shop, 55 High Street, Hythe, tel: 01303 263108, or can be obtained at the door. (Admission free for those under 18 in full-time education.) The recital will be followed by a ploughman’s lunch in the church.

SATURDAY 20^th, 7.30pm: SCARLET HARLOTS & EXLOVERS at Quarterhouse, Tontine Street, Folkestone. With support from local bands Elephants and The Inside Plan. Tickets £7, 16+. Box Office: 01303 858500; www.quarterhouse.co.uk

SUNDAY 21^st, 2.30pm: THE RAINBOW FISH at Quarterhouse, Tontine Street, Folkestone. Sunday Family Show...with FREE children’s workshop 11am – 1pm. Tickets £5 adult, £4 child, £15 family. Box Office: 01303 858500; www.quarterhouse.co.uk

WEDNESAY 24^th, 8pm: DAVE GORMAN – SIT DOWN, PEDAL, PEDAL, STOP AND STAND UP TOUR at The Leas Cliff Hall, Folkestone. Box Office 01303 228600; www.leascliffhall.co.uk

THURSDAY 25th, 8pm: FILM SCREENING OF THE WHITE RIBBON (2009) – winner of the Palme D’or 2009 at Quarterhouse, Tontine Street, Folkestone. Tickets £3.50. Box Office: 01303 858500; www.quarterhouse.co.uk

THURSDAY 25^th, 7pm: WHITEHORSE FILM CLUB’S SCREENING OF EU TU ELES at The Bar Below, The View, West Terrace, Folkestone CT20 1TH. Based on a true story, “Me, You, Them” comically depicts the relationship between an ordinary woman and her three husbands who live together at the same house in a poor and arid small village of the Brazilian Northeast. For further info, email: whitehorseevents_at_hotmail_dot_com.

FRIDAY 26^th, 7.30pm: HEROES – MUSIC FUND RAISING NIGHT at The Tower Theatre, North Road, Shorncliffe, Folkestone.

SATURDAY 27^th: LONESTAR COMEDY CLUB at The Lanterns, Folkestone. Compere: Mark Simmons; headliner: Gary Delaney; newcomer: Carly Smallman, plus supports. For full details, please visit: www.lonestargroup.co.uk or call Ian on 07771 796445.

SATURDAY 27^th, 7.30pm: MUSICAL BINGO – FUND RAISING FOR MARLOWE THEATRE at The Tower Theatre, North Road, Shorncliffe, Folkestone.

For full details of all events in Shepway, visit: www.discoverfolkestone.co.uk 
OPEN MIC/STAGE NIGHTS IN SHEPWAY       
The Chambers, second Friday of every month, Cheriton Place, Folkestone. Open to local bands, act and individuals. For more information phone Tony on 07790 264108.

Home Ground Café Bar, every first & third Friday 8pm till late, 41 Old High Street. Folkestone. Singers, musicians and poets – turn up on the night or phone Roy Blake on 07941 693663 to book a slot; everyone else just turn up and watch! Also music nights Fridays and Saturdays; for programme info, call Home Ground on 01303 241079 or visit www.homegroundcb.co.uk

The Butt of Sherry, every alternate Thursday (11^th, 25^th), High Street, Hythe. Just go along and watch, or to participate, phone Jack on 01303 266112. 
ART EXHIBITIONS IN SHEPWAY     
Showing now: Georges House Gallery is delighted to announce the extension of Observance, an exhibition by Nicola Dove for an extra week. Observance is a series of long exposure photographic portraits of people from a wide spectrum of faiths in a meditative state of prayer. The work explores whether this internal, spiritual experience can be recorded and communicated to an audience via a photographic medium. The images are accompanied by a soundscape made from recordings of the sitters. www.strangecargo.org.uk

Friday 5^th, 6 – 8pm (introduction at 6.30pm): Exhibition of The Tower Theatre Competition at The Grand, The Leas, Folkestone. Folkestone Creative magazine sponsored a competition in December and invited local artists to paint The Tower Theatre. First prize was £100 and went to Janine Umbers. Janine's painting was featured as the cover of Folkestone Creative. In the youth section three students from the Folkestone Academy won two tickets each for their winning paintings. All the entries will be on display. Tickets £5 per person.

The exhibition continues through to the 28th February – free entry.

Friday 6^th to 19^th February: ‘My First B&W Photography Exhibition’ by Jonathan Busch at Church Mouse Studio, High Street, Hythe. On display, and for sale, will be 20 black and white photographs by this junior artist. Jonathan has amazed people with his skill and artistry and was featured recently in the local newspaper.

Now until 21st February: URBAN at Googies Art Café, 15 Rendezvous Street, Folkestone CT20 1EY. A show of urban influenced works by local artists Jon Doran, Liu Batchelor & Dan Desborough. Monday to Thursday 9am-6pm, Friday & Saturday 9am-11pm, Sunday 10am-6pm.
       
NEWS FROM THE CREATIVE QUARTER 
The Creative Foundation is holding the first of a series of open evenings, designed to provide an opportunity to exchange news and ideas about developments in the Creative Quarter, on Thursday 18th February at 6pm at Quarterhouse in Tontine Street. The presentation, followed by a Question and Answer session, will last around an hour, and will focus on the work taking place to renovate buildings in The Old High Street and Tontine Street. If you are interested in attending please register by e-mailing your name to info_at_creativefoundation_dot_org_dot_uk.

Number 11 at the top of The Old High Street and Quarterhouse Bar and Restaurant in Tontine Street will both be promoting special menus to celebrate Valentine's Day.

Coming Soon - the full line up for The Hook music festival in March.

For events at Quarterhouse in February, please see under ‘EVENTS’ above.

       
EVENTS & ACTIVITIES IN & AROUND ASHFORD

For all the latest arts news in Ashford, visit: www.ashfordpresents.co.uk

       
EVENTS & ACTIVITIES IN & AROUND CANTERBURY     
For a range of events and activities in Herne Bay during February, including children’s stories, baby rhymes, craft activity etc, visit: www.peopleunited.org.uk

The Gulbenkian, for full programme information, visit: www.gulbenkiantheatre.co.uk or phone the Box Office: 01227 769075.

Orange Street Music Club,15, Orange Street, Canterbury CT1 2JA

For info, visit:www.orangestreetmusic.com or phone 01227 760801

19th February 2010 (3rd Friday) – Kent Folk Bluegrass, The Biggin Hillbillies - Kentish 5-piece bluegrass with James Lin on fiddle. £7

Venue: The Boathouse, Grove Ferry Inn, Grove Road, Upstreet, Nr. Canterbury, Kent.  CT3 4BR http://www.wegottickets.com/event/71328

       
EVENTS & ACTIVITIES IN & AROUND DOVER  
Newly opened Astor Theatre, Deal

Saturday 13^th: Open Day: a showcase for a huge variety of events that will be incorporated into the Astor programme, and a chance to get involved! Arts and education workshops for all ages; crafts, dance, fitness, health, music, and much more. There will be live performances from choirs and bands. Plus: NINE BELOW ZERO  in the evening

Sunday 14^th: Valentine's day films: Mamma Mia! Matinee - dress up and sing along! When Harry Met Sally candle-lit evening screening, with a free glass of fizz included.

Saturday 27^th: Rockfest - our popular monthly event, which is a platform enabling local bands to perform live - February headliners are Iris, plus Rogues Down, We Die At Dawn and Hooligan Village. See below under ‘Notices’ for more information and contact details.

Charlton Arts Centre, for an update on events & activities, visit: www.charltoncentre.co.uk.

Dover Arts Development (DAD), for up-to-date news visit: www.dadonline.eu/

The Roundhouse, for events info call Box Office 07788 497921.

       
EVENTS & ACTIVITIES IN & AROUND THANET 

TONIGHT: A Streetcar Named Desire at Theatre Royal Margate. Libra Productions presents its complete London stage production of the classic Tennessee Williams play enabling local theatre fans to see what promises to be a fascinating revival of a play that has captured imaginations for over sixty years. Contact the Box Office for tickets (see below).

Saturday 6^th, 7.30pm: ONE MAN LORD OF THE RINGS at Theatre Royal Margate. If you’ve seen the films, read the books and named your first-born Frodo, you won’t want to miss Charles Ross’ zany take on the ever-popular epic saga.

Friday 12^th, 6 – 9pm: Exhibition Preview of S MARK GUBB AND ROAD KILL: History of a Time to Come + Zine Fair - at The Old Printworks, Bilton Square, Margate CT9 1DX. Exhibition Opens: 13 – 14 Feb 12 – 5pm and 19 – 21 Feb 12 – 5pm. Zine Fair: Saturday 20 Feb 12 – 5pm. www.cratespace.co.uk

Saturday 20^th: Skillnet Group's risky business returning to the Theatre Royal in Margate, to perform 'One Vision' the musical tour. The show has been a huge success. 'One Vision' is about different people's life experiences. The central storyline is about a man with learning difficulties who decides to leave his residential home and find the life he wants. This includes looking for a job, meeting new people and finding a flat of his own. The story follows Chris on his journey using sketches, poems and songs from 'Queen' - performed by 'The Bohemians', a brilliant Queen Tribute band who perform live as part of the show.

Theatre Royal Margate for details of all events visit www.theatreroyalmargate.com or phone the Box Office: 0845 1301786 or 01227 787787.

       
EVENTS & ACTIVITIES IN OTHER PARTS OF KENT     

Now until 26^th February, 10am – 6pm: Tony Hart Retrospective at the Graham Clarke Gallery, Hazlitt Art Centre, Maidstone

8^th February – 1^st March: Through the Looking Glass, Hazlitt Art Centre

Friday 19 February 8.30 pm: APPLAUSE: JEFF LANG at Hunton Village Hall, Maidstone, ME15 0RR. Jeff Lang is an innovative Australian guitarist, singer and songsmith with a reputation for startlingly original performances, working without a set list, allowing the energy of each night to shape the songs. For bookings, please contact 01622 745789.

For further information on arts events in and around Maidstone, including the Hazlitt Art Centre, Arts Programme at Maidstone Museum and other art venues, contact: EmilySmith_at_maidstone_dot_gov_dot_uk.

For information on all events at the Hazlitt Theatre, contact the Box Office on 01622 758611.

       
GENERAL NOTICES

FEEL GOOD WITH ‘FRAMED’

Have you picked up a copy yet of this most locally-talked about book? Why not go along to the book readings, which take place every Tuesday 4pm – 5pm at Diva Café at the Cube Adult Education Centre, Tontine Street, Folkestone. Be a part of this big community read! Framed by Frank Cottrell Boyce tells the story of a boy who reminds an entire town of the power of art. Find more information at www.kent.gov.uk/libs or email libraries_dot_readit_at_kent_dot_gov_dot_uk

THOUGHTS OF SPRING – CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE’S PAINTING & PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION

Capel-le-Ferne’s Farmers’ Market is organising a competition, with the theme ‘Thoughts of Spring’. The age categories are: 5 – 10 years for paintings; 11 – 16 years for paintings; 5 – 10 years for photographs; 11 – 16 years for photographs; each entry to have name, address, telephone number and age on the back. 50p per entry – no limit – no size limit. If cheques are sent, please make them payable to Capel-le-Ferne Village Hall Management Committee. Entries to be sent to Children’s Competition, 26 Alexandra Road, Capel-le-Ferne, Folkestone, Kent CT18 7LN by 14^th February. Entries will not be returned, but if you wish to collect them from the Farmers Market on 23^rd February, you are welcome to do so. For further information please email capelfarmersmarket_at_yahoo_dot_co_dot_uk or phone 01303 245399 or visit our website www.capel-le-ferne.org

FOLKESTONE ART SOCIETY

The Annual General Meeting of the Folkestone Art Society is to be held at 12 Grimstone Avenue, Folkestone CT20 2PZ, venue by kind permission of David and Christine Crane, on Saturday 6^th February at 2pm. If you are interested in finding out more about one of the most successful art societies in the south east, please come along. For more information, please visit: www.folkestoneartsociety.co.uk

SHEPWAY ARTS NETWORK EVENING

There are a few spaces left for this first Shepway district networking evening on Tuesday 9^th February, 6 – 8pm. Speakers will talk about the council’s new arts strategy, available funding streams, the performing arts, live literature, and local arts activities and initiatives. We will discuss whether similar future networking events are wanted, what Shepway artists – across all art forms – want, need or aspire to have. If you would like to come along, we would love to see you but registration is essential. Please email: arts_at_shepway_dot_gov_dot_uk.

FOLKESTONE DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS SOCIETY

On 28 January Antony Penrose amazed us with a most charming, personal and often poignant story about the lives of his famous parents Lee Miller and Roland Penrose. There will be a follow-up visit to Farley Farm House & Charleston on 15 April.

Thursday 25 February at 2.15pm – EXPLORING KENT CHURCHES. John Vigar looks at architectural development of a period of over 1500 years and takes a chronological journey through the surviving evidence. Meetings are held at The Tower Theatre, North Road, Shorncliffe. Visitors are welcome at £5. Info: e-mail folkestone_at_nadfaskentarea_dot_org_dot_uk or telephone 01303 239530 or visit our website: www.nadfaskentarea.org.uk

UNIVERSITY CENTRE FOLKESTONE

New Public Lecture series for 2010: Creativity and Communication – Tuesday 2^nd March: Music as a metaphor for life by Professor Grenville Hancox; Tuesday 30^th March: Is there a book in you? With writer Jane Wenham Jones; Tuesday 27^th April: From Pharaohs to Vampires – dancer/choreographer Angela Wooi on the evolution of Egyptian dance. Talks are FREE and start at 6pm – all welcome. For details/bookings, contact jane_dot_seaman_at_canterbury_dot_ac_dot_uk.

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE AROUND ROMNEY MARSH

A variety of events and activities are on offer to young people this month, including going to see Cirque Soleil at the Royal Albert Hall in London, street art session, crafts & games, Shepway Play Map, theatre workshop and more. For full details, email Marsh Youth Support Network at marshyouth_at_aol_dot_com or phone 07790 662334.

ARTS AWARD – SOUTH EAST

Course title: Arts Award Gold Top-up Teaching on 24^th February at Arts Council South East, Sovereign House, Church Street, Brighton BN1 1RA. This course currently has 13 places remaining. For details, please click on the following link: http://www.artsaward.org.uk/course_search/?script=profile_search

NEW ARTISTS GROUP

I am hoping to form a small group of artists whose main creative focus is Kent, with a contemporary interpretation using a range of different media. This is with a view to organising a travelling exhibition to be shown at a series of towns in the county and possibly linked to the high speed rail destinations. The exhibition would commence at "Googies" art cafe in Folkestone in June. I am looking to make contact with people and organisations who might be interested in offering some support, bearing in mind that it would link in well with the tourist industry. The areas for consideration would be: artists who fit the criteria already mentioned; venues - not necessarily galleries but with easy access for the public; and publicity - maybe the Kent Tourist Board, radio and T.V. Anyone interested, please contact me, Liz Findlay, at elizabethfindlay_at_hotmail_dot_com.

DRUMMING WORKSHOPS

Drumming is an easy and fun way to make music with other people. You do not need to have any previous experience or a musical background to enjoy drumming. Drumming can contribute to a healthy way of life. It can help to energise us and make us more alert. It can help us release tension and feel more relaxed! The Sidney De Haan Research Centre for Arts and Health is offering Rhythm for life – free 6 week drumming circle with Simon Lee at University Centre Folkestone. This starts tomorrow 5^th February from 10.30am to 12noon. For bookings and further details, please phone 01303 220870.

ARTS ON PRESCRIPTION – SEMINAR SERIES 2010

Tuesday 9^th February to 8^th June, 1pm – 3pm at University Centre Folkestone

There is increasing interest in the idea that prescribing or referring people to creative activities may benefit their health and wellbeing. This series of events presents examples of such projects currently running across the country. The Sidney De Haan Centre is exploring the possibility of an ‘arts on prescription’ scheme in Folkestone and these events will help to develop proposals for such a project. For further details of the Centre’s work, please see: www.canterbury.ac.uk/centres/sidney-de-haan-research/index.asp

MASTERCLASSES BY AWARD WINNING ARTISTS

10-week evening master classes will start soon at The Print Room, Old High Street, Folkestone. The courses will be run by artists Charlotte Harris, winner of the National Portrait Gallery's BP Award and Charles Newington, creator of Folkestone's White Horse. The classes are:

An Introduction to Portraiture and Oil Painting: Charlotte Harris

Wednesday evenings starting 24^th February for 10 weeks.  Cost £150.

Watercolour/Mixed Media Course: Charles Newington

Thursday evenings starting 25^th February for 10 weeks.  Cost £150.

All abilities welcome.  Booking is essential and places are very limited with an emphasis on individual tuition. If you would like to book or for more information contact Shane Record on 01303 240452 or email shane_at_shanerecord_dot_com.

SILKSCREEN PRINTING WORKSOPS

Silkscreen printing workshops will be held on Thursday 18^th February and Thursday 18^th March, 10am – 4pm at Silkworm Studios, 55 – 57 Tontine Street, Folkestone. Learn the basic skills and techniques of silkscreen printing and then design and print your own set of postcards to take home. The course costs £65 including all materials. To book or for more details, please email - info_at_silkwormstudios_dot_com.

MELDOWNS BRONZE CASTING COURSES

The next course begins on the 19^th February. Create your own bronze (10 Fridays over 3 months). Following a last minute cancellation there’s a couple of places still available.

For bookings and more information, visit: www.meltdowns.co.uk

ANIMATE

Animate is a community arts company based in Canterbury that works across the whole of Kent. Animate specialises in providing bespoke arts workshops and projects for a range of clients and occasions, this may include anything from a street parade to a school workshop. Animate works with a wide range of artists including performers, visual artists, carnival specialists, textile artists and film and photography artists. Since autumn 2009 Animate has added two new members of staff to its team: Katy Hirst as the Youth Projects co-ordinator and Louise Hammond as the Schools Projects co-ordinator. We are currently looking for more people in the education and youth sector who would like to partner with Animate, so if this is you please get in touch with either katy_at_animatecommunityarts_dot_com or louise_at_animatecommunityarts_dot_com. For more information please visit our website: www.animatecommunityarts.com

ENQUIRE 4 PROJECT: TRAINING OPPORTUNITY

CALL FOR ARTISTS LIVING IN KENT

Stour Valley Arts, Turner Contemporary and Canterbury City Council’s Museums and Galleries Service are collaborating on a training and research project focusing on specific skills and approaches for working with disadvantaged young people. All three organisations are at an exciting stage in their development. We have been working together for several years to develop ambitious education projects, create high quality resources and strengthen the cultural network in Kent. We want to make a difference to the arts in our county and need to work with artists to do this. We aim to develop a pool of artists who are excited by working with young people who are facing particular challenges in their lives. In the forest, by the sea and in the city, our organisations offer huge potential for engaging young people.

Selected artists will:

·       Be offered two days training exploring neuro-chemistry, working with challenging behaviour and the role of arts in processing trauma, delivered in part by Kids Company on 23^rd and 24^th of March 2010 at Whitstable Museum.

·       Work collaboratively to devise and run workshops for the participant groups in May and June. Workshop dates will be by agreement with each setting.

·       Be paid a total fee of £450 per artist for ALL training, workshop and evaluation.

·       Be required to have their own public liability insurance cover and to have had a CRB check within the last 2 years

Interviews will be held in Margate on 22^nd and 24^th February. Please send a CV including no more than 6 images (including description) and a brief statement (maximum 400 words) about your interest in the project to:

education_at_stourvalleyarts_dot_org_dot_uk or telephone 01233 740040 for more information.

Deadline Monday 8^th February 2010.

THE JOHN MOORES EXHIBITION

The John Moores exhibition showcases the best new paintings produced in the UK today and attracts a broad spectrum of artists. No preference is given to levels of experience or particular practices of painting. The work is selected anonymously from an open submission by the jury, who also award the main prizes. In 2010 a first prize of £25,000 will be awarded along with four further prizes, each of £2500. In addition, the winner of the popular visitors' choice prize will be announced towards the close of the exhibition. There is an entry fee of £25, which is non refundable. Deadline: 19^th February 2010. Please click on the following link for further information: liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/walker/johnmoores/

UK YOUNG ARTISTS

The first UK Young Artists event will take place in the Autumn of 2010. Artists who are selected to take part in this event could also be selected to represent the UK at the XV edition of the Biennale of Young Artists from Europe and the Mediterranean.

Work should be new and can be from any art form including visual arts, performing arts, literature, applied arts, film and fashion. Artists must be between 18 and 30 and be UK citizens or have been resident in the UK for at least one year. To register your interest and be notified when the call goes live please visit: www.ukyoungartists.co.uk/content/biennale-2009

ASTOR COMMUNITY THEATRE

After months of extensive refurbishment the Astor Community Theatre is reopening! The Astor boasts full facilities for a wide range of creative, cultural and educational events. There is a 140-seat auditorium for live performances and big screen cinema - where NINE BELOW ZERO will be playing on the 13th February. The auditorium also operates as an open space for bands, dance, craft fairs and markets. There are four studios; two for smaller performance events, art classes, writing workshops and children's activities. There is also a fully equipped recording studio. All spaces are available for hire at very reasonable rates. Our creative learning and education programme includes a wide range of Adult Education classes, Saturday morning performing art classes for 7-17 year olds, Family Creative Workshops, Creative Writing Workshops for adults and children and music and movement sessions for pre-school children. The Astor Community Theatre will also be the permanent home for the weekly workshops of the Astor Youth Theatre. The planned programme of events includes regular theatre productions - both touring professional companies and local amateur groups - classical concerts, live bands - both local and professional - weekly Open Mic nights, monthly Stand Up comedy evenings, a complete cinema programme which includes Arthouse films, Classic black & white films, Saturday children's matinees and new releases. Festivals of Jazz, World Music, Film, Literature and Food are also going to be celebrated and incorporated at the Astor. Food and refreshments will be available in The Café Bar. For enquires, email enquiries_at_theastor_dot_org_dot_uk or visit: www.theastor.org.uk.

PIECE OF THE PIE

Piece of the Pie CIC is a Community Interest Company set up by Pie Factory Music in 2008 to offer affordable, exciting music and arts activities for young people and adults around Kent and the South East. Pie Factory Music currently offers free workshops around Thanet for 0-18 year olds. A range of music workshops is now available for schools, colleges, adult education centres, youth clubs and sports clubs. This could be as part of extended services after school club, or part of a lunchtime group, or evening youth club. Piece of the Pie has a range of workshop tutors with a wealth of experience and abilities. We hold a full CRB for tutors as well as risk assessments and other policies, available on request. This is a great opportunity for young people and children to learn and enjoy music. For more information, contact Mark Loader at admin_at_piefactorymusic_dot_com.

FOLKESTONE FILM FACTORY

To date, Folkestone Film Factory has relied on commissions to deliver digital output, and previous clients have included The Creative Foundation, Shepway District Council, Folkestone Triennial, Brockhill Park Performing Arts College, Pent Valley Technology College, Highview School and a number of local artists. Now that we are a Community Interest Company, we will be looking for funding opportunities in order to deliver new and exciting projects and events in 2010 and beyond. We would like to hear from people who have ideas for a film or community-based project. Also, New projects for 2010: Film Club, Care Leavers, Local History, Short film project, Reducing crime in Kent, Alcohol misuse – if you would like to join forces or get involved with any of the projects mentioned above, please get in touch with us at info_at_folkestonefilmfactory_dot_com

ARTS COUNCIL ENGLAND SOUTH EAST

There have been organisational changes at Arts Council England South East, which include new appointments to new posts. Vacant posts are being advertised on their website: www.artscouncil.org.uk. In addition, the Achieving great art for everyone consultation is now live online and waiting for your thoughts and views: www.artscouncil.org.uk/consultation.

SITTINGBOURNE ARTS FESTIVAL COMMISSION

Swale Borough Council is seeking to commission an innovative weekend arts festival for Sittingbourne town centre, to be delivered in July or August 2010. The Festival will be both street and venue-based, using vacant shops to host engaging and interactive temporary activities in ‘familiar’ spaces with an aim to cultivate new audiences in areas with little formal access to the arts. Please contact Catherine Herbert, Arts Officer, Swale Borough Council, 07957 575794 for the full Brief. Closing date 26th February.

WHITSTABLE BIENNALE 2010, 19 June – 4 July - SATELLITE EVENTS

About the Biennale

The Whitstable Biennale is a festival of contemporary visual art, with a curated programme focused on artists’ performances and works made for the screen. A programme of commissions running throughout the Biennale will be accompanied by events unfolding each weekend including a dynamic film programme and a varied talks and events programme. Please visit www.whitstablebiennale.com for information on previous Biennales.

About the Satellite Programme

The Whitstable Biennale supports a satellite programme, which offers all artists an internationally recognised visual arts festival at which to launch a project. There is no set subject, title or theme for the satellite projects but events should take place in Whitstable or be connected intrinsically to the area (this covers Seasalter, Tankerton and Chestfield). We invite all artists from the Whitstable area as well other national and international locations to participate. Projects are to be organised by individual artists / organisations. Unfortunately the Biennale does not have the resources to offer any direct funding for satellite projects, but we will give support and advice as much and wherever possible. The many benefits of participation include a ready made audience, marketing and promotion, exposure, forming new creative contacts, and showing work in a new context.

Venues can include a wide range of spaces, such as beach huts, newspaper supplements, shops, abandoned buildings, shop windows, the beach, train station platforms, boats, caravans/caravan parks, town halls, portable dvd players, churches, galleries, the street, alley ways, swimming pools, Whitstable Castle, bowling alleys, pubs and performance venues, your front room, gardens, sheds, allotments, banners, posters, the sea, cafes, radio airways.

Please email kate_at_whitstablebiennale_dot_com for further information and registration form. Deadline for submission is Friday 19^th April.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS TO SUPPORT YOUR ORGANISATION?

The vinvolvedteam works with local organisations to create more high quality and diverse volunteering opportunities within the community. The team recruits young volunteers between the ages of 16 – 25 from local schools, colleges and universities. For further information, please contact Jess Twydall on 07903 952075 or at jessica_dot_twydall_at_vsuinkent_dot_org.

1940s BAND OR SOLO PERFORMER WANTED

If you are a group or solo performer that plays/sings music from the 1940s (WWII songs that Dame Vera Lynn sang) or know of such a group or person, please contact Oliver Simpson, Chairman of the Youths Festival of Remembrance at oliversimpson6287_at_yahoo_dot_co_dot_uk

BRIGHTON FESTIVAL FRINGE 1^st MAY – 23^rd MAY - CALL FOR ARTISTS

We are looking for works of all media which engage with light to exhibit in the beautiful setting of 13^th century St Peter’s Church at Preston Park, Brighton. The final works selected will be diverse so interpretation of the theme is intentially very open. Applications are welcomed in painting, photography, sculpture, installation and new media. For more information contact Nathaniel Hepburn on 01892 839039 or email nhepburn_at_mascallsgallery_dot_org.

SHOW: EDINBURGH

Announcing the launch of an exciting new opportunity for performers based in Kent to take their show to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2010.

Year One Consulting has set up a prize fund to help a performer or performing arts company showcase their work at the biggest arts festival in the world and are offering to reimburse expenses of up to £1000. As part of Year One’s ongoing support for local performing arts ventures, SHOW:EDINBURGH aims to encourage performers, already contributing to Kent’s lively performing arts scene, to show Edinburgh the new, exciting and innovative work being created in the county. This is a great opportunity for early career performers, who can present their show at a high profile arts festival known for launching careers of the likes of Peter Cook, Stephen Fry and Eddie Izzard. The successful SHOW:EDINBURGH performers will get a chance to develop their skills and experience, while networking with other companies, producers, promoters and press. The opportunity and application pack have been posted to the Year One website (www.yearoneconsulting.com and click on the SHOW:EDINBURGH logo or go to the ‘Community’ page).

NORTH KENT LOCAL AUTHORITY ARTS PARTNERSHIP (NKLAAP)

NKLAAP is looking to support and enable artists to deliver exceptional projects across North Kent, and to develop audiences for cultural activity. The partnership is inviting proposals across art forms (including, but not limited to; dance, theatre, visual arts, combined arts, outdoor arts, music, film, performance, new media). Proposals must develop opportunities for audiences in three local authority areas – Medway, Swale and Gravesham. NKLAAP will fund a maximum of 50% of the total project cost, to a value of £10,000, to include artist’s / project management fees, community involvement, fabrication and installation costs. Projects must be delivered by November 2010. For more information, contact brian_dot_tourle_at_gravesham_dot_gov_dot_uk or phone 01474 337457.

YOUTH DANCE ENGLAND

Youth Dance England has a new project called 'I love to Dance'. It is on or before the 14th February and involves people dancing to show how much they like to move. The hyperlink below will explain fully how you and your school can get involved. It would be great to have a big response from the Kent area. There is a facebook fan site where you can publish your event or just upload DVD/ pictures of what you did to celebrate Dance. Please inform me, Chris France, School Dance Coordinator, of anything that you may be doing at cfrancis_at_brockhill_dot_kent_dot_sch_dot_uk. Have fun and Dance! www.yde.org.uk/ilovetodance<http://www.yde.org.uk/ilovetodance>

ARGENTINE TANGO CLASSES

There’s new an opportunity to learn this elegant and sensual dance at classes in Folkestone. Tango has a therapeutic value with claims to help Parkinson’s disorders, co-ordinate motor skills, low impact strengthening of core and limb muscles and it also helps people to be trim and slim - a facility which we are developing at the same time for those who may need to diet! There are different styles and tempos of Argentine Tango: Salon ,Vals, Milonga (similar step to Salsa), and Show. The classes are aimed for beginners and those wanting to get a feel for the music. We aim to make the lessons fun and relaxed with improvisation welcome! Our temporary venue is weekly on a Tuesday at the All Souls Church Hall, Cheriton CT19 4CE starting at 7.30pm and finishing at 11pm. Our opening promotional price is £4.00. Since this location is temporary, we do ask people to book in advance with their details and to check with us for possible alterations in the programme. Contact: 01303 277715 or 07720383176. Do you fancy a Tango holiday in Umbria, Italy? Then this could be for you! Dates: 9^th to 16^th May, 7 days workshops, accommodation and meals. For all enquiries and bookings, please phone Michael on 01303 277715.

KENT DANCE CHALLENGE

Kent Dance Challenge 2010 23^rd & 24^th October - over £3000 worth of prizes to be awarded; prestigious judges and world class dance workshops to be announced. Saturday will see the 14 to 17 and the 18+ compete, Sunday will see the 13s and under plus the Solo, Duets and Trios entries compete. Titles to be awarded are: Kent Dance Champions 2010, Junior Kent Dance Champions 2010, Dancer of the year 2010. For further information, call 020 8621 6550 / 07853350617 or email: frances_at_kentdancechallenge_dot_co_dot_uk; www.kentdancechallenge.co.uk

ARTS & BUSINESS - SEMINARS

An Introduction to Sponsorship Wednesday 17^th February

Venue: London

This seminar will raise your understanding of arts sponsorship and give you practical guidance on how to secure it. The day is aimed at those with no sponsorship experience as well as those who wish to refresh themselves of the fundamental principles and practice of this important part of the arts funding mix.

Times: 10am to 4.30pm. Cost: £90 + vat for members, £150 + vat for non-members (includes a light buffet lunch & refreshments). 50% discount for Kent organisations.

An Introduction to Individual Giving Monday 22^nd February

Venue: Hillview School for Girls, Tonbridge

Join us for this practical introduction to raising money from individuals which will explore how to develop and maximise your income from this source and to know how to approach and manage potential donors in the most appropriate way. Topics will include: current levels of individual giving to the arts, why people give, tax and giving, how the ‘7 steps of Fundraising’ work in Individual Giving, on-line giving, giving to the arts & giving to the wider charity sector, the future of Individual Giving.

Times: 10am to 4pm. Cost: £90 + vat for members, £150 + vat for non-members (includes a light buffet lunch and refreshments). 50% discount for Kent organisations.

Contact for both courses: Michael Blake: michael_dot_blake_at_artsandbusiness_dot_org_dot_uk; or call 01273 738333.

Inspiring Management Development opportunity

(applies to South East region only – excluding London Boroughs); limited time – 20% discount on Board Bank places; buy before 31^st March for your 20% discount. We place skilled professionals on the boards of cultural organisations. Business people bring skills, acumen and insight. In return, they can: gain new skills such as governance and strategic planning; develop new high level networks; gain fresh motivation and inspiration; experience working in a creative environment; help shape the cultural life of their community. Since 1988 we have placed more than 5000 business people as non-executive board members and advisors with not-for-profit arts organisations. The fee to join Board Bank has been discounted from £500 to £400 until 31^st March. The fee covers training and support and an introduction to the right organisation. To find out more contact me at Michael_dot_Blake_at_artsandbusiness_dot_org_dot_uk or call me on 01273 738 333.

WE ALL DO GOOD THINGS

This is a project that celebrates kindness, love, friendship and generosity in Herne Bay. Have you experienced or seen an act of kindness, do you know a story of someone who has done good things? Would you like to submit a piece of artwork for inclusion in a We All Do Good Things exhibition? If so, People United would like to hear from you. They are looking for a range of art forms including photography, visual art and films. For more information, email: info_at_peopleunited_dot_org_dot_uk or visit the website: www.peopleunited.org.uk

PRIDE IN SHEPWAY AWARDS

If you have received good service from staff at local entertainment venues, shops, restaurants, bars, hotels, leisure facilities, transport providers etc, please take the time to nominate them for a Pride in Shepway award. You will also be eligible to win a special prize if your nomination is chosen as a winner! The deadline for nominations is 26^th February. Go to www.visitkent.co.uk/prideawards or pick up a pre-paid nomination card in Reception at the Civic Centre. The award ceremony will be held on Wednesday 10^th March at Quarterhouse. For more information, please email: patricia_dot_smith_at_shepway_dot_gov_dot_uk

FUTURE DIARY DATES

Friday 5^th March, 4pm: Launch of Phil Vasili’s biography of Walter Tull

Venue: The Grand, The Leas, Folkestone.

March 13^th: Laye Sow from Senegal is performing at the Home Ground in Folkestone on March 13th as a prelude to his guest appearance with Maiuko at the Quarterhouse on 14th. This amazing Senegalese musician is now living in Folkestone and making links with the local music community. Please contact if you want to say hello musicdirections_at_aol_dot_com; www.myspace.com/layesow1

14^th – 16^th May: The Sacconi Chamber Music Festival in Folkestone

This year’s festival will bring chamber works by Smetana, Janacek and Suk as well as Dvorak’s ‘American’ quartet and his exuberant piano quintet. Running alongside the performances is an extremely important thread of the festival: the Outreach Programme – brining the whole community closer to this amazing art form that so many people still feel excluded from. This is the third festival and looks to be the best so far with Timothy West taking part as narrator for the Friday night concert. For full details of this year’s festival, visit: www.sacconi.com/home. ‘Rover Tickets’ are selling fast already!

11^th – 13^th June: Sellindge Music Festival

The line-up so far runs like this: Meri Everitt, Heels Catch Fire, The Black Hats, Lostaura, The Reverence, Lee Westwood, Wasp Factory, Mean Poppa Lean, Coda Luna, Eddie, The Little Philistines, The Gin Riots, Skyskratcher, Roy’s Wife, Revolution, Park Bench Social Club (PBS6), Page 44, Nic Bennett, Handshake, Floors & Walls, Dress to Kill, Cut a Shine, 900 Spaces, Hyperpotamus, Tom Ayres. More bands to soon - keep an eye on the website/sign up to our e-newsletter for all the latest information go to: www.sellindgemusicfestival.co.uk

REMINDER - Port Lympne Exhibition Opportunity
Artists have an opportunity to exhibit artwork at Port Lympne for their exhibition that will be taking place over the Easter Break. The deadline for submission is February 20th and Vic Reeves will be opening the exhibition. 30% of sales will be going to the Aspinall Foundation. Anyone interested in submitting work should contact Vic Sharrat by email at vic_at_vicsharrattwildlifeimages_dot_com

REMINDER - TWO INFLATABLE STAGE COVERS FOR SALE

Shepway District Council is inviting purchase offers for its two large inflatable stage covers. The deadline for offers is Monday 8^th February 2010. Further information, together with a list of all accessories and images can be found on our website at www.shepway.gov.uk/arts. We are looking for offers in excess of £2,000. Purchase offers must be sent by email to: margaret_dot_creed_at_shepway_dot_gov_dot_uk or by post to Margaret Creed, Procurement Manager, Shepway District Council, Civic Centre, Castle Hill Avenue, Folkestone CT20 2QY.

       
FUNDING INFORMATION    
See our website for the latest Inside Track funding digest and other information on funding opportunities: www.shepway.gov.uk/arts

       
WEB LINKS      
Shepway District Council – Arts & Culture: www.shepway.gov.uk/arts

Performing Arts Network Kent (PANeK is funded by EKLAAP, KCC, Arts Council England and Future Creative): www.panek.org.uk

Performing Literature : East Kent Live Lit: www.livelit.co.uk

Club Shepway: www.clubshepway.com

FAC (Folkestone Artists Cooperative): www.folkestoneartists.org.uk

FAS (Folkestone Art Society): www.folkestoneartsociety.co.uk

DFAS (Decorative & Fine Arts Society): www.nadfaskentarea.org.uk

Folkestone Camera Club: www.folkestonecameraclub.co.uk
Folkestone Film Factory: www.folkestonefilmfactory.com

Folkestone Fringe: www.folkestonefringe.com

FHODS (Folkestone & Hythe Operatic & Dramatic Society): www.towertheatrefolkestone.co.uk

White Shed (artists): www.whiteshed.co.uk

Shepway venues:

Leas Cliff Hall: www.leascliffhall.co.uk; on-line brochure link:

http://www.livenationstheatres.co.uk/uploads/documents/doc_839.pdf

Quarterhouse: www.quarterhouse.co.uk

The Tower Theatre: www.towertheatrefolkestone.co.uk

Live music at Hayne Barn, email: haynebarn_dot_events_at_gmail_dot_com

Music events at The Grand: www.grand-uk.com

For information on many events and activities in Shepway:

DFHRM: www.discoverfolkestone.co.uk

Send information about your events & activities to:

DFHRM: www.discoverfolkestone.co.uk

Tourist Information Centre _at_ Stop 24: TIC_at_howletts_dot_net

KmFm: Shepway events slot every Friday at 09.30am during the Adam Dowling breakfast show 96.4 FM on DAB digital radio and on-line at www.kmfm.co.uk

FUSE EAST: www.fuseeast.co.uk

Togogo: What’s On activities: www.togogo/info

Channel Web Scene: www.channelwebscene.co.uk

       
If you wish to be removed from this mailing list, please email: amanda_dot_oates_at_shepway_dot_gov_dot_uk

Amanda Oates

Arts Development Officer

Community Regeneration

Tel: 01303 853464

Fax: 01303 853502

Email: amanda_dot_oates_at_shepway_dot_gov_dot_uk

Shepway District Council

Civic Centre

Castle Hill Avenue

Folkestone. CT20 2QY