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The Silk Road has been a major thoroughfare from China's northwest to Central Asia and Europe, a route for the exchange of cultures and trade. The filmic world has vividly captured the Silk Road's images of yesteryear and the lives and civilisations along the way.
As a contribution to the forthcoming "Silk Road Arts Festival", the Film Programmes Office of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) has organised a film programme "Images of the Silk Road" to feature the cultures of China and Central Asia along the Silk Road with different styles. The screenings will be held from October 10-25 at the Cinema of the Hong Kong Film Archive and the Lecture Hall of the Hong Kong Space Museum.
The five films are "Warriors of Heaven and Earth" starring Jiang Wen and Zhao Wei, Ann Hui's "Princess Fragrance", a Central Asian poetic fantasy from Georgia, "Ashik Kerib", director Michel Ocelot's French animated feature "Azur and Asmar" and the China-Japan co-production epic "The Silk Road".
To tie in with the screenings, a seminar entitled "Human Interests in Films on the Silk Road" is scheduled for 3pm on September 13 at the Lecture Hall of the Hong Kong Museum of History. Admission is free and it will be conducted in Cantonese.
At the height of the Tang Dynasty, wars were frequent between China and the western frontier states. A general becomes a fugitive because of his defiance against slaughtering defenseless common people and prisoners of war, while a group of bandits are scheming to rob the Tang Dynasty trade caravan. Director He Ping captured the Tang Dynasty west in a sweeping tale of honour and virtue in "Warriors of Heaven and Earth" (2003).
Adapted from Louis Cha's novel "Romance of the Book and Sword", Ann Hui's "Princess Fragrance" (1987) features a love triangle among Emperor Qianlong, hero Chen and Princess Fragrance, and the quest of the Red Flower Society, an organisation aiming to overthrow the Manchurian government. Through the lens of Hui, the exquisiteness of Tianshan and the desert of Xinjiang have all been captured.
The former Soviet Republic of Georgia has a long cinema history which has fostered many master filmmakers. Directed by Sergei Paradjanov who made his name in the West in the 1980s, "Ashik Kerib" (1988) caused a stir in the 1988 Venice and Munich Film Festivals. A medieval travelling poet and his lover are forcibly separated by their parents. He is on the road for seven years before the lovers are reunited.
How do the noble-born Azur and his Arabic best friend Asmar join forces to defeat a monster and break the curse? French master animator Michel Ocelot utilises enchanting hues in the animated feature "Azur and Asmar" (2007) to display a Silk Road adventure and parable of racial harmony.
Dunhuang is an important outpost for the Silk Road as its unique cave art, artifacts and ancient scriptures are China's invaluable cultural relics. Shot by a joint Sino-Japanese crew, "The Silk Road" (1989) is an epic with fairytale romance and battle scenes of grandeur. Director Sato Junya has recreated the awe-inspiring views of Dunhuang and its surrounding region, and the complex multi-culture socio-economic setting.
All films have English subtitles.
Tickets priced at $45 are available at URBTIX outlets. Half-price concessionary tickets are available for full-time students, senior citizens aged 60 and above, people with disabilities and Comprehensive Social Security Assistance recipients. Discounts from 10% to 20% for purchasing tickets of film programmes or performing arts of the "Silk Road Arts Festival" are also available.
Programme and discount details can be found in the "Images of the Silk Road" leaflet or in the "Silk Road Arts Festival" programme brochure at all LCSD performing venues. Reservations can be made by phone on 2734 9009 or via the Internet at www.urbtix.hk. For enquiries, please call 2734 2900 or browse the website at www.lcsd.gov.hk/fp.
Ends/Monday, August 17, 2009
A film still from "Warriors of Heaven and Earth" (2003).
A film still from "Princess Fragrance" (1987).


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Three Eagles Oufitters is celebrating fall in the mountains with an Artists Market Fest Saturday, Oct. 15, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the store on the corner of 441S and Siler Road. Several talented artisans will be exhibiting their wares for sale offering unique gifts for the upcoming holiday season.
Crafts that will be available include pottery, basketry, Christmas ornaments, hand-crafted furniture, photography jewelry, handmade purses, sun catchers, cards stationery, handpainted items, glass art and more.

subset: commoncrawl


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Top 5 Weekend Picks! (2/14-2/16)
February 13, 2014 · Print This Article
1. Take Aim at The Hills Esthetic Center
Work by Hope Esser and Daviel Shy.
The Hills Esthetic Center is located at 128 N. Campbell Ave. Reception Friday, 7pm-midnight.
Curated by Molar Productions, with by work by Benjamin Bellas, Judith Brotman, CC Ann Chen, Meg Duguid, Andreas Fischer, Jeffrey Grauel, John Henley, Andrew Holmquist, Greyson Hong, Theodore Horner, International Chefs of Mystery!, Carol Jackson, Carron Little, Nicholas Lowe, Ryan Noble, Susannah Papish, Steve Reber, Oli Rodriguez, Joshua Slater, Rafael E. Vera, Rebecca Walz and Ryan Michael Pfeiffer.
slow is located at 2153 W. 21st St. Reception Friday, 6-9pm.
Work by Kendall Babl, Sarah Berkeley, Buki Bodunrin, Meg Dugid, Julia Klein, Nicole Marroquin, Mothergirl, Sabina Ott, and Erik L. Peterson.
DfbrL8r is located at 1136 N Milwaukee Ave. Reception Friday, 6-9pm.
4. Six Sigils for Saint Lucifer and Other Works at Peanut Gallery
Work by Erik R. Peterson.
Peanut Gallery is located at 1000 N. California Ave. Reception Sunday, 5-9pm.
Work by Anastasia Samoylova and Julie Weber.
3433 is located at 3433 Kedvale Ave. Reception Saturday, 6-9pm.
Top 5 Weekend Picks! (1/28-1/30)
January 27, 2011 · Print This Article
1. Twice Removed: A Survey of Take Away Work at Golden Age
Organized by Karly Wildenhaus.
Golden Age is located at 119 N Peoria St. #2D. Reception is Friday from 6-9pm.
2. Zak Arctander at The New Gallery
Work by Zak Arctander presented as part of the ACRE Exhibitions program.
The New Gallery is located at 1344 W. 18th Pl. Reception is Friday from 6-9pm.
3. (Fig. 4) at Pentagon
Work by Anthony Creeden, Bret Schneider, Liam Murtaugh and Xavier Jimenez.
Pentagon is located at 2655 W Homer St. Reception is Saturday from 7-10pm.
4. Winter Experiment: Ben Fain and Shannon Stratton at moniquemeloche
Artist talk with float builder extraordinaire Ben Fain and 3Walls co-founder Shannon Stratton.
moniquemeloche is located at 2154 W Division St. Artist talk is Saturday at 1pm.
5. SWWMYOSBL Hall of Fame at Happy Collaborationists Exhibition Space
Work by Erik L. Peterson presented as part of the ACRE Exhibitions program.
Happy Collaborationists Exhibition Space is located at 1254 N. Noble St. Reception Saturday from 6-10pm.


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No one has commented yet.
Life is Peachy
I miss all my koRn buddies :( I havent been getting on here much since the website changed, but I miss seeing you guys at shows or chatting with you online. I'm excited for 2012 and all the badazz shows that are in store. Hopefully i will get to travel to more locations and meet new KoRn Kidz :) Until then, I hope everyone is having a good start to the year!


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NATO fighter pilots can now learn to fly together even when they are stationed thousands of miles apart. A low-cost, networked flight simulator lets pilots learn each other's combat tactics remotely, and could prevent friendly fire incidents during coalition missions.
At present, coalition pilots rarely train with one another due to the huge expense of bringing aircraft and support staff together. There are also too few full-motion flight simulators, which can cost $10 million each, to create virtual squadrons through remote link-up. Consequently, the first time many NATO pilots fly together is on a mission.
The new simulator, built by UK defence firm Qinetiq, and US aerospace giant Boeing, aims to make collaborative training much easier.
Flight and fight
Most simulators are so expensive because they use very high resolution displays and because the cockpit is mounted on top of several computer-controlled hydraulic arms. This lets a trainee experience every gut-wrenching twist and turn of their plane's flight.
Such realism is not strictly necessary for tactical training, though, says Jon Saltmarsh, a development engineer with Qinetiq. "We need something that tells them how to fight with the aircraft, not just fly it," he told New Scientist. "You don't need a full-fidelity simulator for battle training."
So Qinetiq's Mission Training through Distributed Simulation (MTDS) system uses a simplified aircraft cockpit and, instead of high-resolution displays, 13 standard video projectors produce an image across a wraparound screen. The imagery is clear enough to see who is flying alongside you, to identify terrain and to pick out targets on the ground.
Virtual missions
MTDS was put through its paces on 18 March, when a Royal Air Force crew in Lincoln, UK, "flew" four Eurofighters while a United States Air Force team in Arizona, US, joined them in virtual airspace in four Tornados, four F-16 and four A10 "tankbusters".
The US and UK pilots flew joint missions against computer-generated targets, and were in constant radio contact with one another. With the simulators networked via an undersea communications cable, there was a delay of only 0.2 seconds.
"We are still working within the realms of what we consider acceptable," says Wing Commander Mike Dobson of RAF Air Command. "If we did this from the other side of the world, though, we'd need new communications technology."
If you would like to reuse any content from New Scientist, either in print or online, please contact the syndication department first for permission. New Scientist does not own rights to photos, but there are a variety of licensing options available for use of articles and graphics we own the copyright to.


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- contact us
- For enquiries, please contact Yan Zhao.
- mobile: +65.9188.2171
tel: +65.6345.7202
- email@example.com
- address: 176 Joo Chiat Road #04-01, Singapore 427447
Little Red Ants on 早报逗号(ZaoBao Comma)!
- date: 17 Aug 2012, 16.47pm
- no comments
这就是Little Red Ants Creative Studio的由来。创始人分别是郑智元、陈泽华、岑康立、王一凤和傅彦钊。
当时彦钊还在一个跨国企业里当管理培训计划的见习生(management trainee),工作了三个月就辞职,放弃的是3500元的月薪,还有预计每年1200元的加薪。老板们纷纷挽留他,但他还是选择离开。
五人决定申请标新局的青年企业家起步公司计划(YES!Startups)*的资金,数目多达五万元。但计划书一直被批没独特卖点(unique selling point)。泽华说,感觉对方要资助的是提供创新产品的公司,而不是提供服务的公司。"对方说我们没卖点,但他们或许没意识到创意不局限于具体的产品,而是能通过其他方面去传达。"
五人从储蓄中凑足三万元买录影和摄影器材后,2009年10月开始营业。首五六个月里,他们轮流到彼此的家办工。有多一点钱后,他们才租下现在位于如切(Joo Chiat)的办公室。
Full article here
Looking back to go forward
- date: 31 Dec 2011, 03.40am
- no comments
It is always in retrospect that moments become poignant. When you look back at them, it becomes uncannily clear that things do happen to us for a reason, for the better, or for the worse.
On our "About Us" page, it's stated that we "share a common interest in storytelling. For us, stories engage, educate and inspire… The ingredients for a good story have always been empathy and imagination. To this end, we work with film, photography and motion art."
This mindset doesn't just apply to projects that we work on. Whenever we watch a good film, we talk about the story, learn from the techniques used, or simply, gawk at the actresses (well, they're part of the story right?). Whenever we come across a new ad campaign, we discuss the effectiveness of the concept and see how we can implement it in our future projects. Like what the late Steve Jobs said, "Good artists copy, great artists steal."
At the end of 2 years, I'm heartened that we are still heading towards our common purpose, and this is the main reason why work doesn't feel like work. In 2012, we will continue to pursue this with the same fervor.
This year, we have worked on projects of varying natures and requirements – dealing with kids, camping in the great outdoors, operating our gear out at sea, etc. And I have to say that some of these projects have been nothing but phenomenal. They tested our skill sets, opened our minds to new ways of storytelling, and taught us the meaning of "you never know till you've tried".
We welcomed three good people into our family this year. They gave us lots of laughter, saved our asses a few times, spurred us on to do better, and sang more off tune songs than we ever thought possible.
Keyuan: Mr No-qualms came in when I was in reservist earlier this year. Within 10 months, he has become a pillar of support for us in his own understated way. Thank you for accommodating all our demands and tolerating your mad bosses. Do learn how to say "no" in 2012.
Kevin: Soft-spoken and highly perceptive, Kevin is a gem in disguise. Although he only comes in during his school breaks, he gives us a much-needed edge in post-production. Thank you for being Mr No-qualms No. 2, and for all your help in 2011. Do graduate in flying colors and join us when school is over!
Rachel: On 7th October 2011, I received an interesting request for an internship from a NUS undergraduate. This blossomed into a short 5 weeks stint for Rachel, when she tried her hand in conceptualizing, directing, editing and producing. We would have loved to let her dabble in other areas though. Nonetheless, I hope you have enjoyed your time here!
I'll like to mention another group of people we can't live without – our collaborators, in particular, my uncle/awesome DP Ong Boon Kok, one-man team Jean Loo (The turkey rocks! Thanks for the love!) and her cousin Jonathan. Thank you for helping us tide over the tough times.
During these peak periods, what makes or breaks a project boils down to whom we are working for. If the client is someone who is understanding, reasonable and most importantly, appreciative of our creative inputs, the project's demands become immaterial. On the flipside, nothing hurts and discourages a creative professional more than a client who doesn't value our thoughts, opinions and rationale. Let's put it this way – when a sick patient visits a doctor, he/she explains all his/her ailments, trusts the doctor's diagnosis and follows the doctor's instructions and prescription on how to get better. Why should it be any different for the creative industry?
On hindsight, we were blessed with wonderful clients in general. Clients who listen to us, clients who discuss their ideas with us, clients who partner us to get the job done and clients who make us smile and clients who we want to go the extra mile for. Thank you.
I remember our very first presentation when our dreams were almost shattered by an ignorant gatekeeper of a grant provider. I also remember the days spent in a stuffy basement when we first started out with a single 5D Mark 2. Etched firmly in my mind, these memories serve to remind me of the perseverance that brought us thus far. And it will be the same perseverance that will push us to become even better multimedia storytellers. While we aim to grow in skill and stature, I want to remain humble and be attentive to stories in daily life that we often overlook amidst the hustle and bustle. These are the stories that will energize, inspire and delight us, in one way or another.
2012, here we come!
- Yan Zhao, 31 December 2011
Three years to 30.
- date: 30 Dec 2011, 17.55pm
- no comments
When I set myself and my colleagues the task of writing self-reflection pieces, I said, "Write anything you want." It should have been "Write anything you want, but be absolutely honest."
Writing self-reflection pieces as a company is not an uncommon practice. It is usually done internally as a self-evaluation exercise. Often, I think, these appraisals are kept within the company and not shared with anyone else.
But if it's worth writing, I think it is worth sharing. And if it's honest, there is no shame.
It's now two years after college graduation. My thoughts returned to the school days. I realized that, back then, I do not derive as much satisfaction from good grades as much as when I try something different, even radical, and then getting away with it. There are few outlets that give more joy than purposely pushing the boundaries and then getting commended for it. That is what little red ants should do. We are not there yet. But damn, do we keep trying. To be the pack leader, not rear scout.
I am naturally excited when I have ideas and I push hard for them. For the past year, I have restrained a bit and relinquish control because I am not really sure of how abrasive I might come across. But I decided that going forward, it will be in the best interest that I continue to push hard for what I think are potentially brilliant undertaking. One reason is because I have learned to trust that my team mates will forgive me for my bursts of overt enthusiasm. This company has proven itself to be tolerant of the expression of opinions. And I think we all agree that the office should be a creative battlefield.
At this year's retreat, we've managed to do something that we have never done before. We decided on the three things we want to pull off next year. The three non-veto items. Although I can't reveal them here (because we don't want to jinx ourselves), the list is on a wall somewhere in our studio, staring at us everyday, challenging us to live up to our commitment. I think that is a testament to our focus ahead. Like many start-ups, we began on a whim and a lack of identity, with fingers crossed, growing the business with our hands instead of our head. Through a few years' of experience, it's becoming clearer to ourselves the kind of creative studio we want to become.
We've had a pretty busy year. We know it is time for some balance. As the appointed company welfare officer, I declare next year the "Year of Second Passions". I think it is time we all go pursue with fervour something else out of work. Muay Thai? Cycling? Triathlon? Farming? A new skill? Riding a bike? Self-upgrading? During office hours, we will roll out movie screenings, book sharing corners, a photo wall that changes every 2 months, film critique sessions etc. I hope that this will refuel our energy tank.
Lastly, let us not forget how time is quickly slipping by. I like how Ai Weiwei views life. To him, it is simply an act of using up time. I like how simple that is. Now, it all boils down to how we use it.
We started young. We are older now. In time, we will grow to miss the euphemisms of youth definitely. But I think we want to look back at a period of youth not wasted.
To quote a line from William Wordsworth: "bliss was it in that dawn to be alive / but to be young was very heaven".
That heaven is now.
A Year with the Ants
- date: 30 Dec 2011, 17.45pm
- no comments
An unexpected interview with LRA in February marked an exciting start and personal highlight of 2011. I joined LRA in March as a motion graphic designer and believe me, it is an amazing experience working here. This is a company with an Employer to Employee ratio of 5:1, yes I am that one and only employee surrounded by 5 amazing and rather amusing boss. It is overwhelming at first to be the sole employee but it all become clear that there are no differentiation of classes in this company; all ants are equal but some ants are more equal than others.
Although there are the occasional hurling of physical abuse from one of the female co-workers and verbal abuse from the rest of the male co-workers, they are all but in the name of good old fun. One can pretty much guess that the company is a long standing culture of having fun at workplace, everyday in LRA is a day filled with laughter (and good food).
I am looked and treated upon as a friend rather then a mere employee, which makes life in office an enjoyable one. But at a corporate level, my well being as an employee was never overlooked, self improvement fund (which landed me a canon 50mm 1.4 lens) and birthday lunch are some of the numerous welfare entitlement's scheme dished out by the 5 bosses. I really appreciate their effort in recognizing and integrating me into the future plan of LRA.
The highlight of 2011 is definitely the helicopter shot of KL and of course seeing Stephanie Sun in person (my kind colleague Kevin reminded me to add in Fandi's shoot too). I have grown a lot and learnt a hell lot more here, from the unfamiliar filming on DSLR to the lighting of a set, literally picking up new skills and knowledge on a daily basis. Getting hands on experience in almost every part of the production pipeline is what I joined LRA for and I am grateful to be given these opportunities.
2011 had been a year of plenty, plenty of laughter, plenty of new friends and plenty of learning opportunities. With just a few more days left before the dawn of 2012, there is much to look forward to, much to learn and much to improve on a personal level.
Ants' life is never boring, busy yet fulfilling, with amazing support and teamwork.
- Keyuan
Twenty-eleven in retrospect
- date: 30 Dec 2011, 14.44pm
- no comments
As the year closes, I think back to my beginning with LRA. Barely six months ago, after I ORDed from the army, I was faced with a dilemma on whether to settle for a full time job or pursue higher studies. Eventually, I decided to continue my studies at Lasalle, College of the Arts – Puttnam School of Film. With that in place I decided to look for work. I was apprehensive at first at whether I would find a company who would be willing to accept my schedule arrangements, and feared that my skills would not be as sharp, as I not practice my craft for the two years I served in the army.
Surprisingly, I did manage to receive employment offers from several production house, that offered full time rates. Just as I had just accepted an offer to work with another local production company, I decided to revisit LRA's website though they are not hiring. I applied, interviewed and got the job at LRA, but was only offered the position as an intern, one-third the rate I was previously offered by another company. My mother was furious to hear I had opted to chose a lower paying position that was even further away from my home than the initial job offer. But I was not just looking for a job or good pay, I was looking for a conducive environment to practice my craft, and essentially I was looking for a company with a good work culture. With the support of my girlfriend and my older brother, I was confident that I had made the right choice.
And although I have only been with LRA for under a year, I am grateful for this opportunity. I have watched them progress on a corporate level, while still maintaining a sense of ease, friendship and partnership within the family that is LRA.
- Kevin Yeoh
Why I'm still loving it
- date: 30 Dec 2011, 14.41pm
- no comments
Two years on, 10 reasons why I still love to come to work.
1. Has it been two years?
2. We're still in it to tell a good story. This year, we had opportunities to document meaningful stories about fostering, mentoring for youths-at-risk and the restoration of the Klang river in Kuala Lumpur.
3. We made our first foray overseas to Nanjing, interviewed former President Nathan and went up on a helicopter ride!
4. We caught two big whales in the form of Keyuan – our super nice motion graphics designer who eats up all the biscuits in office, and Kevin – our big friendly giant who has been an amazing editor.
5. We can tease and banter with each other, and still laugh it off later – not without some smacks, awkward silences, expletives or swooshes depending on who gets aggravated.
6. We're still growing and pushing our limits, learning new skills, finding better ways to improve our workflow and production value – it's a never-ending process that's enjoyable in itself.
7. We have 3 cars + 1 company van, but every lunch, we will attempt the impossible to squeeze all 7 of us into 1 car. We'd like to think it's a way of company bonding but really, it's a matter of prime lots.
8. When one person goes down, we all go down – together! That includes falling sick from Keyuan's spreading cough and bombing Kevin to write a blogpost with us to end the year
9. Right now we're still fighting over who's writing what first and how long their blog post is …
10. There are times when work does feel like work. But for every day of this, there are many more days of fun and laughter that come along with it. So thank you little red ants for making this journey worth the ride.
Thanksgiving on the New Year
- date: 30 Dec 2011, 13.27pm
- no comments
Thanksgiving is one holiday we don't celebrate in Singapore. Celebrated primarily in North America, it was originally meant to give thanks for a good harvest, and to rejoice together after much hard work with the rest of the community during the year.
That's what I want to do here, because I feel that this time of year is important to take stock of the lessons learn in the past 12 months, to give thanks to the people who have helped you through, to celebrate and fortify ourselves for the challenges ahead.
Nothing is more important or essential to Little Red Ants than our clients. This year, we've met many who believe in our creative direction and vision and were willing to let us craft their videos for them, and we say thank you to these special people. Thank you for everything you've helped us with, especially the teachers who took time off from their busy schedules to help us with the videos, Gladys, Jingfang and Audrey, who lent their support and believed in us. Special thanks to Nizam, Yun Shan, Cher Ling, Lina, Mabel and Jing Yun for trusting us and being there on late night and weekend shoots with us. But that's not all the clients we have. Thankfully. To everyone we've worked with, thank you and hopefully, we'll get more chances to work together in the future.
To give thanks once more, we managed to have a successful retreat this year! In Penang no less. Which brings me to the next group of people I'll like to give thanks for.
To Darren – Like what a certain interviewer said, you're the rock upon which Little Red Ants is built upon. For your dedication, for your technical knowledge, for the scratches in your car, for your skill with black tape and for your strength, thank you.
To Kang Li – Like the same interviewer said, you're the deep thinker who takes everything in and churns out super-lame jokes. For that, for your willingness to try new stuff, for being the company welfare officer, thank you.
To Yan Zhao – We've been spending lesser time together (that's 2 hours of my life back) and you've a red sportsvan to drive now! For your ideas, for your concepts, for your emails and for your berting (that's PR to you) skills, thank you.
To Adeline – T-Rex has found happiness! For keeping me company while I drive you to Shalom, for helping me with CPF, for your wonderful artworks and penmanship, for editing everything and for taking 1.5 hours to come to work everyday, thank you.
To Keyuan – To summarize, Keyuan is LRA's very first employee! He finds it weird to work in a company where bosses outnumber him, but he has since grown resigned to his fate. For your willingness to learn, for the amount of time you've saved us from looking for another motion graphics artist, for your horrible font choices and spelling mistakes, thank you.
To Kevin – You've been a very welcome addition to our lives. For editing bloody fast fast, for introducing bands to me, for the welcomed kopi during your breaks, thank you.
To all our collaborators young and old, to our talents, to everyone who worked with us this year, a big thank you!
I think that Little Red Ants has grown through the past year. And we're all proud of its growth. From 5Ds to the new Sony FS100, from scratching our cars with the massive new crane to the spanking red sportsvan, from 5 ants to a whole company of ants, we've come a long way. But the hard part is always just ahead.
For 2012, my possible goal is to start learning again. Although time management is always a little tricky, there's no time like now to start. Learn new techniques; learn to tell stories a little differently, or with a fresh eye or a new perspective. Learn a new language, or relearn an old one or learn skills that I should have learned long ago (swimming for instance).
So, let's put the thanksgiving on hold and look forward to a renewed 2012. Happy New Year!
Some thoughts about 2011 (Darren)
- date: 30 Dec 2011, 11.23am
- no comments
It's the time of the year again for some reflection and thoughts. In general 2011 has been good to us.
2011 is a year of many things for us.
We jumped on a coast guard boat, flew to Nanjing to test our mandarin, shot in a lup-sup bar, tried a full fledged animation project, shot from a helicopter, visited at least 20 parks, collaborated with Mark Lee and Suhaimi, filmed our former President and many more.
I guess 2011 is more than just achievements, 2011, for me is a good year because of the relationships with people that have developed.
Guess one of the highlights of 2011 is that we, as a company welcomed Mr Ng into our family, firstly, plugging a shortage in talent for motion graphics and also simply because he's not only a good colleague but a good friend.
Another pleasant surprise was an intern editor, Kevin, who came out of nowhere to help fill our editing needs. It's a bittersweet story because, Kevin, decided that he wanted to further his studies in La Salle's degree programme and can thus only help out during term breaks. As much as we would like Kevin to come on board with us, we recognise his desire for a degree as well.
I guess 2011 marked a year where LRA really grew, not only in size but I believe is maturing into something we all set out in the first place. To be purveyors of stories. 2011 also marked a year when I feel that everyone in the company has developed above and beyond being just technically proficient, but also growing as content creatives in our own right.
We, as a company, always believe the experience of the relationship is more important than the product, simply because, a good product is taken as a given, but a good experience in whatever dealings is, in our opinion, priceless. To that end, we're really thankful for our clients, for mostly trusting our creative direction and allowing us to better our work, and who have through the course of the year, become our friends. In a nutshell, a heartmost thank you to those whom I've had correspondence with. Please forgive me if I miss out on any names. =)
From NYP: Lina chong, Amanda, Rachel
From PA: Cher Ling, Jing Yun, Yun Shan, Felicia, Boon Heng, Kaijuan, Iswandie
From Canon: Ed Tan, Celeste, Jin Feng
From Contact Singapore: Rafidah, Parveen
From SSC: Diana Seng, Rainbow, Zhenni
From MCYS: Lai Peng, Chee Meng
From Nparks: Nigel, Ellen, Carrie, Rachel
From Arup: Franklyn, Jenny
From Fuji Xerox: Martin
From Cathay Photo: Jimmy
From Line Media: Boon Kok
From NHB: Nor Faiz, Grace
From PSB: Karen
From Visual Collective: Huiyu
To all, Thank you and may we all have an excellent 2012!
When you can't speak well in Chinese…
- date: 20 Dec 2011, 12.20pm
- no comments
Last month, together with a host of other local companies, we travelled to Nanjing on a business mission to meet the Nanjing Youth Olympic Games Organising Committee (YOGOC). The aim was to share our experience in the inaugural Singapore YOG 2010 and to gain a better understanding of Nanjing's preparations.
But a small problem arose. We aren't exactly eloquent in Chinese and we didn't want to make a fool of ourselves by stammering in front of the committee.
Hence, we went round the problem and tried something different with our very own host and voiceover talent.
Turkey & Logcake
- date: 19 Dec 2011, 18.51pm
- no comments
The only way to enjoy a turkey is to eat it with bare hands. Thanks Jean for popping by with a nice surprise!
Trying out the sauces
The turkey which fed 8 people.
Digging in
Caveman style!
Darren insisted that the meal was too carnivorous and decided to buy some greens from Sheng Siong supermarket. He also bought some popiah skin and made turkey burritos with it.
Keyuan shows off the wine bottle.
Adeline has second, or was it third, helpings?
Combining Xmas lunch with Kang Li's birthday celebration
He cringes when we sang him a birthday song
- June 2015
- May 2015
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- March 2015
- December 2014
- July 2014
- January 2014
- October 2013
- September 2013
- August 2013
- June 2013
- November 2012
- October 2012
- September 2012
- August 2012
- July 2012
- April 2012
- March 2012
- February 2012
- January 2012
- December 2011
- November 2011
- October 2011
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- July 2011
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- October 2010
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- August 2010
- July 2010
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- December 2009
- November 2009
- October 2009


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I would have posted this on a similar thread but it is locked so here's a new one. I'm not talking about the pranks in MouseTails (Did some of those), I'm talking about the pranks you didn't read about or didn't hear about. It is one thing when a Skip plays with the crew, quite another when they prank their own. Here are a couple examples
Instead of loading the gun before switching the Skipper loads 2 spent rounds, then cleverly tucks the lanyard UNDER the ammo box. When the poor Skip goes to fire at the Hippos the lanyard causes the box to spill all over... effect was amazing.
Skippers love to unplug the mic but leave it in a position so it looks like it is still plugged in. Usually the other Skip wouldn't figure out it was unplugged until most of the crew was loaded, then they would scramble to try and find out what the "problem" was. A couple old skips would use their own mic, so they would tangle 2 or 3 together then leave all 3 unplugged.... was mean but funny. Another trick is to turn down the volume, that always got them too.
Once every so often the falls would be off. If both Skips are in on it you can have an amazing effect. The Skip approaching the waterfall does the usual yell etc... the Skip behind yells just as hard pulling desperately to try and avoid the boat... I've WATCHED whole crews jump on the center box scared out of their mind... mean but funny. We decided to pull this on one Skip at the backside, he wasn't told about it, made him laugh so hard he DROPPED the mic. (Asian tour group everyone ran for the right side)
I could also do a whole thing on Dock jokes... we held a Sumo match once. Water Wars... best way to beat a code 90 is a lot of cold water flying at ya out of nowhere. But I want to hear other stories from some of the older skips.


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In an interview with Breitbart news Jan.26, in answer to the question:
"The MSM have declared both you and the Tea Party dead and buried. Reaction?"
Sarah Palin said this:
"I was raised to never retreat and to pick battles wisely, and all in due season. When it comes to defending our republic, we haven't begun to fight! But we delight in those who underestimate us. "
"We have not yet begun to fight"
Our Palin is a true white knight.
In darkness she will shine the light
And fight for freedom with all might
Our country is at crossroads now
The road we take will show us how
It's life and good – when right you choose
Or death and evil – left to lose.
Deuteronomy 30:15 (KJV) See, I have set before thee this day life and good, and death and evil.


text:
Maputo — The Mozambican parliament, the Assembly of the Republic, on Monday began debating a new Penal Code, which replaces the completely obsolescent Portuguese Penal Code of 1886.
Perhaps the most controversial clause in the new code is the partial decriminalization of abortion. Previously, under the influence of the Catholic Church, all abortions, under all circumstances were illegal (although humane doctors would often quietly ignore the law).
Introducing the new code, the chairperson of the Assembly's Constitutional and Legal Affairs Commission, Teodoro Waty, noted that the international trend has been towards decriminalization of abortion, and that a majority of the world's population now live in countries where abortion is not criminalized.
He pointed out that across the globe an estimated 71,000 women die every year due to back street abortions, performed because they have no access to safe abortion under medical care. According to the Ministry of Health, unsafe abortions are the third largest cause of maternal mortality in Mozambique.
The new code therefore decriminalizes abortion under limited circumstances - when the mother's life is at risk, when continuation of the pregnancy would cause irreversible damage to the mother's physical or mental health, when the pregnancy results from rape or incest, or when there are sound reasons to believe that the foetus is seriously malformed, or would suffer from a serious, incurable illness. In these cases, abortion is permitted, if performed by qualified medical personnel in a health unit.
The new code greatly extends the definition of corruption, so that it covers offences committed in the private as well as the public sector. It criminalises "illicit enrichment", so that, if anyone cannot provide a reasonable explanation for how he obtained his wealth, it will be confiscated and will revert to the state.
Trafficking in influence is also made a crime, punishable with a jail sentence of up to two years.
Among other crimes that did not exist in the 1886 are trafficking in human beings, and sexual harassment.
Nineteenth century Portuguese lawmakers could also never have imagined the "crime of discrimination". In line with the Mozambican constitution, the new code makes it illegal to discriminate on the basis of race, skin colour, sex, political party affiliation, marital status, religion, age, ethnicity, nationality or family situation.
Anyone who discriminates when admitting clients to a shop, a hotel, a sports club or the like could face a prison sentence of up to five years. Discrimination when admitting people to employment, provided they are properly qualified, could lead to a prison term of up to eight years.
In general, the new code seeks to avoid throwing people in jail for minor offences, preferring to give courts the option of non-custodial sentences.
But for offences that are defined as "heinous crimes" the penalties are greatly increased.
For such crimes the maximum penalty used to be 24 years (with the possibility of an increase to 30 years in the case of "habitual delinquents"). But under the new code the maximum penalty will be 40 years, without the right to parole, amnesty or pardon.
A "heinous crime" is one committed with great violence or cruelty, in which the criminal shows no sense of compassion or mercy, and which causes repugnance in society.
Examples would be genocide, terrorism, torture, and murders committed "with the characteristics of death squads".


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If you're anything like me and my friends there's probably only 2/3 Instagram filters you use regularly.
For me it's X-Pro II, Amaro and Brannan. What annoys me is that when I take a photo and want to decide which makes the photo look better I have to :
Scroll sideways > select X-Pro II > scrollback, select, scroll to the Brannan, change my mind and scroll back and repeat.
Why can't you drag and drop to re-order the filters that are your favourite so you can quickly switch between them at the beginning?
(ignore being able to move 'Normal' filter, that would always remain first)
What do you think? I can't think of the negatives of this personalisation, it's unobtrusive and speeds up the process
More Murat Mutlu
keyboard shortcuts: ← previous shot → next shot L or F like Z toggle zoom


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What's On
Latest News
Voice Theatre Company
Adult Dance & Fitness
Young Sets
Dance Centre
Mission Statement
CTS Intro
Successful Students
A Typical Day
Dance Parties
Theatre Hire
Prop Hire
Join Us
Newcastle Trip - Oliver The Musical (21 May 2012)
Supporting Stevie Hutchinson as he tours the UK in the UK Tour of Oliver!
CTS will be organising a trip for students who want to visit the production, a letter will be sent out shortly. Students will be able to shop, have a meal and then meet up for the show in what will be a fun day out in the city!
Finale (20 May 2012)
Conservatoire de Theatre students will start auditions for their new production. Finale will be in casting during June 2012, rehearsals will be throughout July and August with the show opening in September 2012.
The production will introduce a whole host of new musicals to students and our audiences. Conservatoire will also bring some of your favourite tracks from some well known musicals to life.
Click here to visit the production!
One Scholarship Left! (19 May 2012)
After the success of launching our scholarship scheme earlier this year, we are pleased to announce that there is only one left.
For more information on Scholarships please click here!
Gabrielle Green in new BBC Drama (15 May 2012)
Congratulations to former CTSer Gabrielle Green who has been cast in an exciting new BBC drama series for children!
The fantasy show tells the story of Maddy Smith, who seems like an ordinary girl – but things are not what they seem. After all, when you can hear ultrasound, pick out a scent from a mile away or see in the dark, it can be hard to act "ordinary".
She's faster and stronger than she appears, her senses are razor-sharp – and every full moon she has to lock her parents in the cellar. The truth is Maddy hides a secret even her closest friends don't know about. Look into her eyes, but don't get too close… because Maddy is a wolfblood.
Gabby was with Conservatoire de Theatre at CTS for 4 years training in Musical Theatre, Gabby also performed with The Voice Theatre Company.
Frankie and Johnny in the Clare de Lune (25 Apr 2012)
This new production is the first production from The Voice Theatre Company in 2012.
Rehearsals began last week, the production is a two hander (a play with only two persons) and has been designed to push the boundaries with our actors.
More information will be available soon.
Click here to visit the production!
On The Floor Megamix DVD (29 Mar 2012)
We are thrilled to announce that we have been able, on this occasion to film and take images of much of the backstage footage, rehearsals, technicals and some excerpts of the performance. We are working very hard to put this together for parents to buy on the door of the final performance on Sunday! Although we must have orders in before the weekend!
The DVD is high up on our list of priorities and we do hope to have them all completed by the final performance, however if not be rest assured they will be ready for collection within the coming days after the final performance.
Please book your copies with the box office this week. The DVD is a 10 minute collectors momento of the entire process of the coming together of this wonderful Young Set production. It must be pointed out that this is not a copy of the full performance!
Please remember you can order your copies by leaving a voicemail at the box office! Each DVD is priced at £5 per copy.
We hope you enjoy the fun and excitement that goes on behind the scenes!
Portia Calvert Takes Charge of Dominion House (16 Mar 2012)
Portia Calvert was chosen by staff to lead Dominion Principal House. Portia will begin her training this week. A huge congratulations to Portia.
Revue 2 - Further Casting Announced (16 Mar 2012)
Congratulations to the following students for being cast in the following roles...
Olivia Calvert - Elle
Portia Calvert - Margot
Pilar - Megan Quinn
Serena - Molly Greig
No more casting will be announced as we head into heavy production!
Tickets for this production go on sale 17th March 2012.
Click Here for more information about Revue 2.
Student of the Month for February 2012 (16 Mar 2012)
Winner - Megan Quinn (Prince Edward House)
A huge well done Megan, this is well deserved!
Student of the Month Nominations
Megan Quinn
Paige Harris
Tamsyn Watson Smith
Jason Matthews
The four students were chosen by their principals last week for good behaviour, being inspirational to others, working hard and outstanding effort and contribution to
. The winner has been awarded a certificate, a £10 gift voucher and two reduced tickets for a production at CTS of their choice! (see individual productions for details).
These student have shown particular promise over the course of the last four weeks. Their work ethic and behaviour have been outstanding. Well done to you all but sadly there can be but one winner!
Young Set Soloists for "On The Floor" (16 Mar 2012)
A huge well done to the students who passed two round of auditions for solos/singing roles in the new production
The auditions were held over the weekend and recalls were Tuesday, the youngsters did so well to battle nerves and were every bit the young professionals we are training them to become!
New Uniform Despatched (16 Mar 2012)
The new garments will be delivered early next week, they will be handed out to each student at their next class once delivered. Parents are advised to follow the washing advice given out with each item.
We will be asking for feedback from parents in Autumn regarding the quality of the items, we are also happy to announce that we will be looking into some vests in a range of colours for younger students in the coming weeks!
A group photograph is planned with the entire school in May 2012 in full inform! We hope you enjoy!
SiNG LiVE (7 Mar 2012)
SiNG LiVE is a new voice workshop for those interested in singing and live vocal performance.SiNG LiVE will be held in the CTS studio and will be informative, fun and packed with singing and more singing!
Click here to visit our SiNG LiVE page for full information.
See you there!
Pre-Production (7 Mar 2012)
As we head into pre-production for
it is important that everyone connected with the school keeps themselves up to date with the changes and extensions of hours for classes via the online schedule.
Even if you're not part of the production, it is likely that ALL class hours will fluctuate due to us making way for technicals in the coming weeks. Letters are regularly given out to Core and Beginner Young Set students, however last minute changes can occur and we need everyone to be updated! Singing from them same hymn sheet as it were!
Please refresh your devices before checking the online calendar and please make it a priority to check before class for extended hours and changed times.
Advanced Young Set and Conservatoire students will not receive letters but are expected to check online as usual.
Twitter! (7 Mar 2012)
Thank you to everyone who is following us on twitter now! We are releasing information updates, backstage footage and rehearsal images as they occur! We will not be releasing the full content to our Facebook profile at this current time. Updates will be fed through Facebook and Twitter, whilst only a small amount of photography content will be released to Facebook.
Join us at
to join in all the fun!
What is (C) and (U)? (7 Mar 2012)
Ever wondered what these little abbreviations are for on the student schedule?
C simply means that there is CONTENT held within the diary entry which is of benefit to those involved. C also reminds you to CLICK to open the entry to take a look!
U means UPDATED, there has been a change to that particular diary entry recently and you should make yourself aware to the alteration! Where entries are updated, the date and time of the update will be listed.
This is part of our commitment to keeping communication standards high between the school and students/parents, we are working hard to making CTS be easier to be a part of and updating you as efficiently as possible.
New Principal (1 Mar 2012)
A new season and a new principal!
Conservatoire de Theatre and Advanced Young Set require a new principal to lead the Dominion House Team.
In light of former Dominion principal Nicole Boddy having her position closed by CTS last week, the school is looking for someone to take charge of the failing house team. A principal must be pro-active, organised, working with teachers, support staff and technical staff to ensure progression and improvement of students both onstage and off.
Principals regularly attend Principal team Meetings with staff, they meet with the full team where they share the views of the students as a group.
Principals must show enthusiasm for CTS, the productions and the policies of the School. A principal must be optimistic, open minded, good at planning, observational, caring and be inspired. The new principal will be awarded equalising points to bring the team up to the nearest hundred points to the third lowest team as an incentive to the role.
The new Dominion House Principal will be elected very shortly. Watch this space!
Future of The Voice Theatre Company (1 Mar 2012)
Talks are currently underway with the agenda being the future of The Voice Theatre Company.
The company dedicated to the intense training and nurturing of students interested in straight drama and drama performance, has just cleared copyright for the new production due to open in June 2012. Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune, a two hander drama about to go into read through and first treatment status
However with straight drama being the underdog to musical theatre and dance at amateur status in Teesside, there are concerns by staff over finance and funding further work from this company.
Originally set up for the first 12 months as a free enterprise after Lawrie Love (owner and artistic director) had read The Boy Called It, he not only wanted to produce this as a stage play but so CTS could offer gritty and raw drama, while offering training to acting students. The company developed with strain as student numbers were low and casting productions proved difficult. Productions were at best, adapted for the amount of acting students present, which made the body of work for students and the repertoire of the company always appear slightly blurred with no real titles being produced. This also meant extra hard work for then artistic director Shabnam Darbar who had to cut productions together in order to produce work.
Romeo and Juliet was a particular success but relied heavily on the students of Conservatoire de Theatre to make this happen. Artistic director of the Voice company until 2009, Shabnam Darbar found it increasingly difficult to cast well known productions that would not only sell well, but be of interest to students and nurture their careers/training. Shabnam worked exceptionally hard to make the productions work in an adapted sense, hoping to not only keep the interest of students but also to offer exciting work to our audiences. Shabnam and Lawrie are the only people who know the struggles of producing work at the Voice Company and these struggles have gone on for many years, many years of hard work, planning, commitment, keeping morale up whilst maintaining the professionalism of a theatre company.
The Voice was due to close several times in history and was kept open for the sole benefit of the actors involved. The company for many years made little contribution to the business and at times was almost fully funded by Conservatoire productions. It is very important that CTS is a business, the individual companies must be able to survive on their own. Something the Voice found difficult.
The Voice Theatre Company in more recent years had small numbers and this makes choices very difficult for artistic directors, especially when classes and rehearsals are only once a week and are often floored with additional pressures of absences, holidays, lowering budgets based on lowering audience figures, rising production costs including electricity, gas, venue hire, timber, paint, furniture, lowering audience figures due to smaller casts and studio time becoming increasingly more expensive.
January 2011 saw the introduction of a repertoire change, whereby several productions would be working at any one time. Hoping to offer actors more range of characters, more audition exposure, covering more plays and authors. This almost became successful until a group of actors had to leave Voice just as Abigail's Party went into rehearsal, this made the planned productions impossible to continue with, forcing the Voice Company to focus on a two hander, which was most successful, albeit veering of course slightly. The Voice has always been a small and close group and actors having to leave the company created a detrimental affect on production planning, work, rehearsal and producing.
Whilst Misery's Child was a success artistically, it was still only a two hander and cost almost 4 times as much as it recouped at the box office. The cost of the furniture alone in this production was a fraction under the final income. The final production, Bouncers Remix was one of the most financially viable plays produced and this is partly because of it's fame, it's author, simplicity and the option of offering a black box production against a large scale drama every other production (part of the new repertoire policy).
After listening to student feedback in January 2012, and offering cheaper fee structures and reduced hours the Voice began discussing the new production, hoping that over the course of this, new students might evolve. Staff are currently discussing whether to fund the new production or close the group much to the dismay of the current students.
One thing is quite clear and this is that no decision will be made solely for the benefit of students. In the past, the company was bailed out several times for the sole benefit of the student group and their training. A decision about the future of the Voice will be based purely on business and budgeting and at the present time, this does not look promising. A decision will be announced shortly.
Voice has produced some exciting work and in doing so has catapulted and fast-tracked the training of a core group of student actors, young actors who were completely novice at the time, enthusiastic and passionate but inexperienced and untrained. These students have grown with the Voice and have developed with Shabnam Darbar and Lawrie Love in recent years. We are proud of the what the Voice has achieved but a decision about its continuation and the funding of such work must be made shortly.
Voice set out what it had planned to do, to train and to produce, not only shows but talent! It was never going to be easy but it was never meant to be so difficult. We are sure students former and present would agree that the voice offered training of the very highest standards to them available locally, The Voice at CTS was unlike anything else on offer in Teesside and offered the best to our trainee actors, the very best!
Pre-Production & Performance Dates 2013 (29 Feb 2012)
Please find below the current planned dates for our upcoming productions. We have also included the pre-production period for each performance.
This period (which is usually 7 days) is an imperative part of the production and therefore we cannot authorise any absences. If a student wishes to be absent within pre-production, then they will not be permitted to take part in the production; this to ensure that the production is not impacted in any way. Please note that pre-production may be extended for various reasons, however, current planned absences (which have been authorised by the Box Office) will be taken into consideration and the authorisation of this absence will not change.
If you have any questions about the production dates or pre-production you must approach the Box Office urgently who will then provide assistance or a response to your questions. If they feel necessary then this may be escalated to the production Director.
Revue 2 - Further Casting Announced (19 Feb 2012)
Congratulations to the following students for being cast in the following roles...
Jack Bandeira
- Warner
Luke Oldfield
- Emmett
Carl Leonard
- Prof. Callaghan / UPS guy and others
Tickets for this production go on sale 17th March 2012.
Click Here for more information about Revue 2.
Student Appraisals (7 Feb 2012)
2012 sees the beginning of the student appraisals. Parents and students are being asked to attend the theatre either at the start or end of a class to have a friendly and informal catch-up.
The aim of the appraisal is to run each parent/student through the work completed most recently, the meeting gives the student/parent a chance to hear professional feedback, as well as discuss the position of the student and to agree any strategy of further or additional training.
We want to ensure the student is coping with the training we offer and that both student and parents are happy with the services provided by the School. The meeting will also be a chance for the student/parent to ask any questions or concerns they may have.
Each meeting will be kept to a minimum time scale. Appraisals have been under way for the past two weeks and continue all year long for students who are part of the
Advanced Young Set
Conservatoire de Theatre
Revue 2 Act One Cast List (7 Feb 2012)
Auditions held in January for the Act One part of Revue 2 (Grease Section) are as follows...
The rest of the company will perform as members of the Grease ensemble.
Roles that are "TBC" will be announced in late February 2012.
Click here to visit Revue 2.
Monthly Awards for January 2012 (7 Feb 2012)
Student of the Month Nominations
Megan Quinn
Jessica Ptohopoulos
Molly Greig
Olivia Calvert
The four students have been chosen by their principals last week for good behaviour, being inspirational to others, working hard and outstanding effort and contribution to CTS. The winner will be awarded a certificate and £10 gift voucher to a store of their choice at next weeks class as a token thank you from the staff.
These student have shown particular promise over the course of the last four weeks. Their work ethic and behaviour have been outstanding. Well done to you all but sadly there can be but one winner! Student of the Month will also be granted 2 specially priced seats for a show of their choice in 2012. (see individual productions for details)
Principal Team of the Month
Both Gershwin (Rebecca Robinson) and Prince Edward (Natalie Robinson) house teams have won a draw for January Team of the Month. Well done everyone involved and keep up the good work!
Sadly Dominion House (Nicole Boddy) is awarded January Losing Team of the Month! Better luck next time guys!
On The Floor by the Young Sets (7 Feb 2012)
This new production set against a graffitied dead end alleyway will be the first production to come out of the Young Sets for 2012.
The show will be filled with all of your favourite chart hits with choreography to dazzle and delight!
More information is to follow shortly.
Visit On The Floor here.
The Young Set - March 2012 Production (26 Jan 2012)
Based on the absence forms that have been handed in, we are pleased to announce that all classes of the Young Sets well be taking to the stage in March 2012.
Their production will be a commercial, street, punk dance show.
We are looking at 2 performances on the 25th March 2012. With pre-production 7 days before for technicals and increased rehearsals. The show will have 5 dance tracks per company and information will be heading out of the office in the very near future.
We are also keen to explore new and old vocal talent amongst the two groups. Giving the students the chance to sing live on stage.
This production is 90% confirmed and advertising will start in the coming week.
Technical Difficulties with Online Schedule (26 Jan 2012)
Due to some minor technical difficulties earlier this week we made the decision to close down our online scheduling system.
We apologise for any inconvenience caused and hope that all students and parents received the update on our facebook pages.! The password has since been updated and letters will be sent out this weekend regarding the new information. The entire student page will be taken down for a period of time while our online security is reset. Please bear with us.
We are happy to announce that the online schedule will be up and running imminently.
Revue 2 Auditions (26 Jan 2012)
The first half of the auditions for Revue 2 have been completed. Casting updates will be provided in the coming weeks on the Revue 2 pages of this site. We are undergoing auditions for the second portion of the show on Feb 4th, 2012 between 1pm and 5pm.
Again audition slots must be booked in by the box office team on 01642 363334. These are open auditions and members of the public are welcome to audition.
Scholarships 2012 (26 Jan 2012)
We are enormously excited and proud to advertise our new scholarship facility.
We are aware that there are many talented young people in Teesside who have expressed an interest in training at CTS. The new scholarships are aimed at young people who have an "above average" talent level. The scholarship will take away the financial burden of school fees, allowing those who may not be able to furnish the school with the correct fees to train here.
The scholarships are in honour of Mr James Barnes, The CTS Committee and Mr George Oldfield.
A full description can be found on this site under scholarships.
Fairwell to George Oldfield (26 Jan 2012)
We are very sorry to announce that our friend and voluntary colleague of 5 years, George Oldfield has given 4 month notice before hanging up his work clothes for the very last time. A correspondence happened in mid January detailing his decision and reasons. His resignation was accepted and George will build his last production set this season.
George Oldfield is currently single handedly responsible for the construction of the sets in our theatre. George has not only built some stunning works of theatrical art, but has also maintained the theatre and made changes to it, making life easier and better for students and staff.
George has built the Event 2006 set consisting of sloping rooftops, he also co-built the Narnia 2006 set. His other work includes creating a floating Glinda bubble and moving Oz head for the 2009 production of the Wizard of Oz! Recent sets included Miser'y Child, Of Mice and Men and Moulin Rouge!
George has been a friendly face in the theatre since his arrival and we are sure he will be sorely missed amongst staff and students alike. We take this opportunity to thank George most sincerely for his massive contribution to the theatre. A scholarship in his name has been made available to future students (see scholarships). The latest set George will work on is an installation set featuring a bridge over 10ft high!
Studio Dance Parties (26 Jan 2012)
It is thrilling news that since the launch of our studio dance parties that we have had 5 bookings since December 2011 for January and February! With more to follow!
More information is available on this site (see Dance Parties)! Thank you to all of those who are supporting this new project at CTS.
The Voice Theatre Company (26 Jan 2012)
A new production is underway at Voice Theatre Company. A read-through has already begun and plans are underway to bring an hilarious social comedy to our audiences in May 2012.
A production was scheduled for February 2012 but due to unforeseen circumstances this production has been cancelled making way for our new production.
A new fee structure has been applied to Voice Theatre Company and we are encouraging new students to join this active performance group. The company performed three excellent dramas in 2011 and we have every intention of continuing our dramatic work into 2012.
The title of the production will be announced in the coming weeks.
New Enrolment and Application Forms (26 Jan 2012)
New students can now enjoy our new application forms which have been simplified and made easier to read.
The new applications will be rolled out as from February 2012 once final checks have been made. The new format is a much cleaner line, with larger spaces for student details, and a bigger font making the documents much easier to read. The new forms and contract have had a much needed update in that much of the out of date information has been removed and new policies have been included.
The new pack features two sections, one simply called "guidance" and the other "application". Both doing exactly what it says on the tin!
The new documentation will be neatly housed in a professional style card prospectus folder. The new updated contracts will be handed out to current students for signing, to ensure the entire school follow the new policies.
New Young Set Fee Structures for 2012 (26 Jan 2012)
We have tried very hard since 2006/07 to keep the fee prices of the various classes and companies the same. It is with regret that we have had very little option but to make a small increase in students fees (young sets).
We believe we offer a first rate service to all students at all classes and that our prices must reflect our work. The current set up is that every class pays the same monthly/4weekly fee regardless of the staggering extra classes we provide at production times. This system also means that no refunds are given on school closures, absences and vacations and such like.
We have no intention of changing this set up as it ensures a clean and simple 12 payments per year. This system reduces box office hours, staff workloads and the need for excess parental traffic.
Our last fee alterations for this class were in 2006/07. We would like to make it clear to new parents at CTS, that this is not a regular occurrence and we do not increase fees for the sake of it. We have kept our current fee the same for 5yrs!
There are times, in the weeks leading up to a production, when Young Sets additional classes are the equivalent of two months worth of classes. It must be stipulated that we have battled with this decision for the last 18 months but sadly feel we cannot continue any longer offering such a great service at the current fee structure.
We have decided that the Young Sets classes will be increased by an extra £1.25 per student per class. As usual this will cover, all extra classes when shows are approaching, technicals in the theatre and extra classes in holiday time. This fee also covers 6 weeks of student absences, vacations and school closures as always.
This new fee will be charged as from February 19th 2012. We welcome any direct thoughts you may have at the box office either in person or over the telephone. If there are persons who may struggle with the new fee structure we would like to hear from you.
There has been many parents telling us that we have been too cheap for too long! We hope this isn't placing too much of a burden on your finances and that you will of course continue to support us and attend, whilst we set a fee that is fair of the work we do and services provided.
Splitting of the Core Young Set (26 Jan 2012)
Thank you to everyone who sent in advice notes regarding the split of the Core Young Set.
A decision will be made shortly and as mentioned in our recent letter, we will endeavour to keep friendships that grow confidence; at the forefront of our minds. We are sure not everyone will be 100% happy but sadly, we cannot keep everyone smiling, much as we would like! It is an imperative must that this group are divided to ensure they have the correct level of attention from the staff and helpers in their classes.
This decision will not affect quality of work or opportunities at show time. If there any problems or you are unhappy with the final decision, please do let us know so we can see where we can offer help and support.
Password Change 2012 (8 Jan 2012)
The "student section" password on our website will change on Monday 9th January 2012. (please see your letter). If you were absent and did not receive a letter, please call the box office on 01642 363334 for the correct information.
It is necessary to alter the passwords from time to time or when their has been large changes within the company. We hope you find the new passwords amusing!
Principal Re Shuffle (8 Jan 2012)
We are delighted to announce that their has been a re shuffle within the principal teams and the new teams will be uploaded on the student section very soon!
Students from The Voice Theatre Company, Conservatoire De Theatre and Advanced Young Set will be informed of their new teams this weekend!
It is a very exciting time for the new principal groups as all groups start points from zero.
Congratulations Gershwin House (8 Jan 2012)
We are pleased to announce that Rebecca Robinson and her principal team Gershwin House for winning Principal House Team of 2011. Rebecca now becomes Chief Principal. Rebecca has shown strength and determination and has always been an inspiration to her team. She is not afraid to take leadership or direction and is a strong principal when it comes to keeping her team within the rules of CTS. She has also shown care and kindness to students who have perhaps struggled. She always nurtures her team and encourages them through each show.
She has worked tirelessly for her students and the school, and we wish her well in her new role as Chief Principal for 2012. A role that brings new responsibilities and demands that are more office based than the average principal.
New Gift Vouchers for Student of the Month (8 Jan 2012)
CTS will now be offering the student of the month a £10 gift voucher to a store of their choice. The new scheme is aimed at encouraging students to go above and beyond their capabilities each month. Good work, better effort, professionalism and excellence will all be taken into consideration when a monthly vote is cast by principals in week three of every month.
We want to show students that we value their efforts and we notice that they are working to the very best of their ability and are contributing to their own success, their own goals and for being a great team player, an inspiration and a contributor to our work and efforts.
The student of the month is no longer points based as it was before, although top point scorers will be recognised in the usual way.
Grease The Musical (8 Jan 2012)
Due to copyright restrictions, it is sad news that Grease The Musical is no longer available to Youth Theatres in the UK for the time being. However we are pleased to announce that we will be able to perform excerpts from the musical in a musical revue style show in April.
Other musicals will now be added to the mix. Choices on the other musicals have not yet been decided! Please bear with us as the production pages of our website are taken off and updated soon. The new production will be entitled Revue, which was also the title of a production of a similar nature some years ago. Auditions and information will be uploaded as soon as decisions have been agreed in class.
Advanced Young Set - 2012 Class Times (8 Jan 2012)
Advanced Young Set will now amalgamate with Conservatoire de Theatre for a class brief and physical warm up. The amalgamation will happen on the 15th January 2012.
Therefore the new times for Advanced Young Set will be 11am - 12.30pm each Sunday.
There will be no charge for the additional time spent in the theatre training. We hope the move will inspire confidence, nurture talent and create a healthy sense of competition within principal teams. The move will also ensure the students are given more opportunities to develop their performance skills, be inspired by the older students and observe and take on their work ethic.
The move will also ensure students have a better line of communication with the team and be aware of what is happening within the theatre more.
The bulk (one hour) of the class will still be with Alicia Iman in the studio as normal and we have no plans to change this. The schedule will show the new end times of the classes as from Monday 9th January 2012.
CTS Reflect on 2011 ( 30 Dec 2011)
As 2011 draws to a close the staff of CTS Lawrie Love & Alicia Iman send their usual 'End of Year' letter to all students.
This was given to all students in their last class, however, they're keen to share their thoughts with the CTS fans as well.
To view the CTS End of Year communication, click here!
Casting For Christmas Concert (Nov 25th 2011)
Auditions have now been completed and we are very pleased with the level of professionalism and talent shown by our students at yesterdays auditions.
The following auditions have been successful and will be appearing in the Christmas Concert.
Molly Greig
- Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
Macey Eddy
- Deck the Rooftop
George Bailey
- War is Over (possible duet)
Natalie Robinson
- Santa Baby (as a trio)
Luke MacGregor
- Let it Snow
Molly Greig
- Perfect Year
Richard Little & Olivia Calvert
- Fairy Tale of New York
Portia Calvert
- Where are you Christmas?
Carl Leonard
- Hallelujah
Jack Bandeira
- It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year
Other solo's for Nicole Boddy, Chelsea West and Carl Leonard are not yet confirmed.
These roles / solos / parts are subject to change.
Work and the staging/blocking of these pieces will begin this week (please keep an eye on the schedule as information will be released here first). Those who are missing from rehearsals or blocking sessions may be removed from the production.
We would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to audition and come to the theatre to present themselves. We hope it was a great learning curve and an enjoyable process. You can ask for feedback from the staff by asking at the box office for a feedback discussion.
We look forward to seeing what you can bring to the final performances! For even more information about the Christmas Concert
click here!
New Lighting Technology for CTS (Nov 17th 2011)
In an attempt to upgrade our lighting technology over the next 12 month, we have begun purchasing new state of the art LED lighting technology to compliment the existing LED and moving head technology already in the theatre.
In a recent lighting splurge of close to £1000, 3 new LEDJ Stage Colour 24Tri stage lighting units will replace some of the generic lighting in the theatre. Two of the new units will be suspended on the lighting rig front of house, which lights the apron of the stage. The current 8 parcan lights will be taken down and the outcome should be a much brighter show with a more intense saturation in colours.
The remaining light will be suspended just behind the proscenium arch and will work with the bank of 9 LED lamps attached on the proscenium arch. This will provide more lighting for downstage and centrestage. The bank of two flood lights will be moved further upstage and this will continue until all lighting bars are complete with intelligent lighting technology, whilst the generic lamps will be placed in storage and only used for additional architectural/scenic lighting.
The new technology will give the creative team much more flexibility with lighting as well as provide many new colours and strobe effects. The general look and feel of shows will be brighter, more colourful and more intense.
Understanding the Young Sets Role in the Christmas Concert (Nov 17th 2011)
Advanced Young Set
This group will perform in both performances of the concert! They will be performing dance numbers and theatrical pieces alongside Conservatoire de Theatre.
Core Young Set
The Core Young Set will be split into two groups, (Group A & Group B). The Core Young Set will be performing a traditional Nativity play. This will be broken into three or four sections and will be performed throughout the concert! Parts will be picked shortly based on students ability and capabilities. Those not in a main role will feature in the performance as ensemble and chorus.
Beginners Young Set
Similar to Core Young Set, this group will also be split into two groups (Group A & Group B). Beginners will be providing the carols that accompany the Nativity. They will also have small other performances throughout the concert (Frosty the Snowman and Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer).
Costumes, Scripts, Songs & Props
In the coming week, the production will be organised into a running order. This will then allow staff and the technical teams to know approximately how the show will work. (This is a process that happens every show) Once staff are happy with the running order and the look of the show they can then begin to release information to parents. Information will be dispatched in the form of a letter handed out to students in class. A copy of this letter will also be available on the student schedule under the name of your class!
Some of the information from this letter will also be posted on the Christmas Concert page of our site as well as facebook and twitter. (Information picked for the Christmas Concert page on our website is for marketing purposes only and is picked for the production page based on its public interest).
This letter will cover 90% of what is required from each student/parent with regards to costumes, scripts, lyrics, tracks, makeup and props! (It is important that all parents are furnished with the student contract to ensure a smooth rehearsal process). The end of year letter will also be posted out shortly and again copies of this can be found online!
New Students to Young Sets
November 15th 2011
If your child is new to CTS and is participating in their first performance here, then we would like you to know that we are here for you and any concern or queries you may have! It can be a nervy time going though your first show both as a parent and as a student. Please feel free to call us anytime with any questions you have regardless of how trivial they may seem.
We produce high a standard of training and performances for our students, and approaching your first show may seem daunting! We want to help make this process as smooth and as pleasant as possible. We can only help you if we know about your struggles, so please call as often as you wish! Simply leave your name and number and we will contact you when the office is next open! Our contact details can be found below.
New Students to Young Sets
November 15th 2011
Unfortunately students after this date will not be able to perform in the Christmas Concert as the production is underway. However, classes will still have an element of dance to them and can be enjoyed as a standard Young Set class. Only a small portion of the class is dedicated to the Christmas Concert. We appreciate this may seem a little unfair, however it also seems unfair to expect new students to be thrown straight into a large scale production so soon.
Don't worry, the dance material worked on in class is part of the next production which will be performed early in 2012.
Getting Organised for the Concert
As always at this time of year, there is a lot more happening in the building on a weekly basis than normal! We also appreciate at this time of year there is alot more going at home!
Auditions, dance calls and vocal sessions will be happening in the studio surrounded by other classes the school runs. The entire public areas of the theatre are undergoing a makeover and on stage we have the floor being completely re-painted, a glorious nativity manger under construction as well as the main set design to be built.
The box office is dealing with tickets, queries, licensing, new applications, class planning and end of year finances, whilst the technical team get to grips with new lighting, programming the production sound, blocking in any moving scenery and organising props! Everyone requires more space, more time, more assistance and more patience!
The production itself is just under two hours long and features almost 105 performers. We ask that parents and students who are able to, to check the student schedule regularly and to keep abreast of changes.
We need good communication with parents and for parents to follow the student contract. We regularly update the pages on our website with as much of the latest information as possible. Facebook and twitter updates are also rolled out as information becomes available. Pages to check would include... Christmas Concert webpage, Student Online Schedule and the Discovery News Updates. Clicking on the classes on the online schedule will also reveal information as it becomes available.
We hope this update has helped you gain an understanding of the way in which the Christmas Concert will work and how things will be achieved.
Audition Date for Solos in Christmas Concert (Nov 17th 2011)
Thursday 24th November - CTS Studio - 5.30pm - 9.30pm
We are holding solo auditions in the CTS Studio on Thursday 24th November 2011 for those wanting to perform solos in the new production. This applies to Voice, Conservatoire and Advanced Young Set students only.
Time slots will be allocated in class this coming weekend for those wishing to audition, auditionees must provide backing tracks on memory stick or CD for the audition and must have committed the lyrics to memory!
We are looking for traditional tracks with a modern twist! Feel free to seek advice in class from the staff regarding your choices. Each soloist can have a total of 3 tracks to audition for in one audition slot! Singers can get together to perform duets and larger group performances. Having an audition does not guarantee you a role in the show.
Each soloist should allow 30 minutes for the audition. Earlier slots will be reserved for Advanced Young Set. Please book your audition slots in class at reception and not over the telephone. We look forward to exposing more vocal excellence from our team of very talented performers from across the company.
Auditions are formal but friendly, this assists students understand the etiquette and principles behind a professional audition process, yet isn't too daunting. Sadly parents are not allowed in the audition but can wait in the theatre. We wish everyone who auditions the very best of luck!
Carl Leonard offered solos in Christmas Concert (Nov 4th 2011)
Former student Carl Leonard has been offered two solo performances in this years Christmas Concert.
Carl who has performed in many Conservatoire de Theatre productions will make a return to the CTS stage this winter. The tracks won't be confirmed until Nov 2011 but we are positive his voice will bring much quality to the event.
http://www.ctsonline.co.uk/New%20Site/whatson.html Carl is also considering auditioning for lead roles in the 2012 productions.
Read more about the Christmas Concert
Scroll down for more news...
Farewell Fracture (Oct 19th 2011)
On Tuesday 11th of October 2011, Cleveland Theatre School met with Fracture Theatre Company to discuss the future.
With a series of adverts appearing on Facebook from Fracture in recent weeks, it was agreed that the company was moving away from its original mission and was becoming too similar to CTS. As this created a confict of interest, it was decided by CTS, the popular youth theatre of 22 years, could no longer play host to Fracture if the company was to offer similar projects and classes.
Fracture felt in order to grow and expand that they must move away from their original goals/missions and offer different attractions. It was therefore agreed on Tuesday 18th October 2011 that Fracture would move out of the theatre and home of CTS. Fracture will have vacated the theatre in most part by Sunday 23rd October 2011.
"When Fracture arrived to us in 2010 they were offering something very different to our classes and projects, they were very interested and still are interested in performing externally at functions and events around the North East, but also offered a more experimental style of theatre. Fracture were keen to play around with the avant-garde and more progressive type of performance" explains Lawrie Love, Artistic Director of CTS.
"The two companies were very different and offered different styles of not only performance but also classes. With a sequence of recent adverts for classes almost identical to what we offer, it was felt that we could not support a company in our own venue who was offering the same. This is not what we signed up to do. Of course Fracture must grow and expand and this is important to them and we accept this, I have said from the beginning of our talks that this was not about the prevention of growth but about protection for something we have already in place and to a high standard.
We had no choice but to offer Fracture this unfortunate ultimatum which they accepted with professionalism and good grace. At CTS we have a winning formula and are very popular with parents and young people. It has taken many years to get our formula correct and gain the respect of over 80 parents of the Young Set. Parents know our productions and classes are of the highest standards whilst retaining fun and enjoyment. Our productions are widely anticipated and produced with a great deal of care for the welfare of the young pupils, at the same time they look breathtaking and exciting.
I know it has not been an easy decision for Matthew (artistic director of Fracture), however it is imperative that CTS protects its work, model and formula. We hope Fractures approach to these new classes is innovative and original and does not replicate the CTS blueprint and design, after-all when we started our Young Set in 2000, there was no class like it. We had to be creative and inventive, something we hope Fracture will be, as to diminish any similarities or equivalent.
We wish Matthew and the gang all the best for their new journey and we are positive they have exciting times ahead of them."
Production Dates and Pre-Production Dates for 2011 / 2012 (updated Oct 20th 2011)
These dates have been supplied so students can ensure maximum attendance. Please see your contract regarding attendance and absences. Please note that Young Set dates will be added shortly.
Bouncers Remix
6th and 13th Nov 2011
Christmas Concert
11th December 2011
Body Building Performance
17th December 2011
Voice Production (Comedy)
19th and 26th February 2012
Grease The Musical
15th and 19th and 22nd of April 2012
Voice Production (Drama)
10th and 17th June 2012
Moulin Rouge
29th July and 2nd, 5th & 9th August 2012 (additional performances would be early Sept 2012)
Little Shop of Horrors
18th and 22nd and 25th November 2012
No absences are permitted in these spaces if students wish to perform. Students who are regurly absent in times of pre-production or live performances will be subject to termination of place. Please note that Young Set dates will be added shortly.
5th December - 21st December 2011 (all companies)
7th April - 22nd April 2012 (Grease company)
21st July - 5th August 2012 (Moulin Rouge Company)
1st December - 16th December (Little Shop of Horrors Company)
Dates and performance titles are subject to change. Students must keep themselves furnished with updates.
Stage now Empty (Oct 19th 2011)
After a successful health and safety inspection last week, the stage has now been emptied of the previous production Event 2011 and is in the process of being re-set for the new production Bouncers Remix. After careful planning and deliberation over the past week, the decision was made to re-design the layout of the set for lighting purposes for the new show. The production will still be staged in a black box setting, but extra space will be created for set construction of the student evaluation projects currently being held in the theatre.
The new layout will also allow more playing space for the actors.
The floor will be re-painted next week and major work can begin on the overall presentation of the show the week after.
Copyright Granted for Bouncers Remix (Oct 19th 2011)
The official performance rights were granted to CTS this week to perform John Godber's Bouncers Remix. The rights, held by Josef Weinberger Ltd, were authorised to CTS for the two performances to be held in November 2011.
Paintwork (Oct 19th 2011)
Work has began on sprucing the theatre up. The walls in the building are having a fresh lick of white paint to keep the building looking clean and attractive. The venue normally has a repaint every year however due to lots of traffic in 2010 this was not possible.
The floors in the corridors and scene dock will also be re-painted. The doors will also be re-glossed and given a fresh new look! Work has already begun in the studio and work will continue into November until complete. There should be no disruptions to classes or activities!
Bouncers Teaser Trailer Released
The trailer for our new production Bouncers by
John Godber
has been filmed and edited by students at
The Voice Theatre Company.
Health and Safety Audit
With improvements and re-development an active part of CTS we are very much looking forward to our biennial health and safety audit by Stockton Borough Council.
CTS has always spent time and money in re-developing the theatre to make it easier for those who work in the building and make it a more pleasant environment for training. With our substage area having been redesigned and our workshop space having an overhaul, we will be only too excited to show the governing bodies our new spaces, which had been deemed more than acceptable in previous inspections!
Having an already excellent working relationship with the inspectors, and health and safety being a priority with all work carried out in the venue, we are very much looking forward to receiving another clean bill of health for 2012 - 2014.
Other inspections carried out at CTS also include LOLER, CRB, PAT TESTING, FIRE SAFETY & FIRST AID.
West End Visits CTS
Over the summer we have had numerous visits from former students currently in major theatre training institutions including Sarah Atkinson
(Italia Conti Academy)
and Clare Pugh
(Millennium Performing Arts)
who have given dance workshops or question and answer sessions to Conservatoire de Theatre.
But we were particularly thrilled when former CTS'er Stevie Hutchinson arrived to give us an insight into his work on
Billy Elliott The Musical
in the West End and the challenges and rewards he has faced since leaving
Arts Educational
in Chiswick.
Stevie is coming to the end of his contract on Billy Elliot and has been offered a role in Cameron Mackintoshs' latest tour
The Musical. He has also worked in
, High School Musical and Jesus Christ Superstar in the West End.
It was also a pleasure to welcome his partner Scarlette Douglas who is also actively involved in the industry and can be seen in the new ITV2 programme
Models, Misfits and Mayhem.
Scarlette has also performed in FELA
(National Theatre London)
, Thriller Live (Singapore) and Whistle Down the Wind (London).
Students were able to ask a series of questions they felt beneficial to their education however sadly we ran out of time for a dance workshop with Stevie and vocal workshop from Scarlette. Something we look forward to at their next visit.
CTS Photography and Flickr!
Over the course of the last weekend the school concluded the photo-call for Event 2011. During the run-through of the final production a series of images were taken onstage as action happened in the production. However a series of special images were required for our new website! Many images will be available to purchase by students/parents if desired however it must be pointed out that the images taken are for this website and not as mementos!
Images were taken of all available performers (mostly head shots and close ups) as well as some rehearsal images from Bouncers.
A mass back catalogue of all imagery held by CTS is in the process of being organised into albums, which can be flicked through on our new flickr pages (available by November 2011). All images are for sale and prices can be sought by calling the box office on 01642 363334.
It must be made clear that some images are for marketing purposes only and may not show each performer in action against the set of the production. We look forward to sharing all imagery from CTS with our fans and colleagues in the coming weeks!
New Website 2011
We are thrilled to share with you the new CTS website. Whilst students have been relaxing and enjoying time off after a busy summer season, Lawrie Love and Richard Atkinson have been busy creating and designing the new site.
The new site is hoped to be easier to use for the audiences and students whilst also being simpler to amend and update for the staff. The new site is to be launched in early Oct 2011.
Students on Vacation
All students involved in the previous production Event 2011, are currently enjoying some much needed time off!
Students who worked tirelessly in the run up to the production have enjoyed one day a week performances on Sundays for two weeks, with no classes on during this time! Students at The Voice Theatre Company and Conservatoire de Theatre were also given an extra weekend vacation as a thank you for their hard work during technicals!
Classes resume fully on the 8th of October, when students will begin their performance evaluation projects and receive their appraisals.
Student Evaluations and Appraisals 2011
As from autumn 2011 Conservartoire students will be presenting a series of private performances for the staff enabling the staff to do a detailed appraisal. This allows students and parents to see development as well as allow staff and students to decide on a course of action for increased development.
The students will come together in groups to present performance material whilst taking different creative roles. Students will be given one month to plan, present and create their performance pieces.
Props Central Bank Complete
During the strike of MIserys Child, students at Conservatoire de Theatre began an overhaul on the props department!
All props at CTS are housed in the upper dock space of the theatre. Originally starting off with a series of shelves across one wall, the props department catered for the needs of all the productions, however over time the props department has grown and was in bad need of being re-positioned and re-organised.
A team of students spent two weeks clearing out the old department and sifting through hundreds of props. The new department has now taken over two full walls in the upper dock and there is space for every prop the theatre has in storage so far plus space for future props. The props central bank also houses the furniture department which is also growing steadily.
Students can now have much easier access to props and find items much quicker.
New T shirts 2012
The new 2012 CTS T Shirts and Sweatshirts will be available from November 2011.
The design will be our simple yet stylish logo. Orders can be placed in November. All students will be expected to wear the new uniform as from January 2012.
Leaflet Drop
A new a5 leaflet will be printed in the coming weeks. We hope to target some areas in the Teesside area. The leaflets will promote the school and encourage new students to join us.
Over 4000 homes in areas such as Ingleby Barwick, Yarm, Coulby Newham, Wolviston, Norton and Stockton will get one.
Students are not expected to deliver the leaflets but can help the staff team do so if they live in the areas. The leaflet drop will happen in October 2011.
Looking For Volunteers
CTS is looking for two or three volunteers who can spare a few hours per week to help George Oldfield in our workshop. Whilst George is happy to do the bulk of the work, it would be nice for him to have a small amount of help and someone to share the workload!
Skills required include a basic talent for DIY. Jobs include creating large scale sets using canvas, hardboard, timber, ply and polystyrene. Other duties include creating special props required for the productions and a small amount of painting and school maintenance.
If you are interested in helping us out then get in touch on 01642 363334.
Stage Talk TV
Special thanks to our friends at StageTalk TV for giving us the chance to promote CTS on their SKY Television Channel.
We had a very fun day in making the short video and was thrilled with the final result. This video is playing throughout our website and you can visit StageTalk TV
Grease The Musical
CTS will stage a full production of Grease The Musical in Spring 2012.
Read more...
The Phenomenon Returns in 2012!
After the celebrated smash hit production of Moulin Rouge in 2010. We are thrilled to announce that we will bring this epic and much loved production back to the CTS stage in early August 2012.
Read more...
Little Shop of Horrors
Conservatoire de Theatre will present this much loved comedy rock musical in 2012.
Read more...
Follow @CTSOnlne


text:
Real Housewives of Beverly Hills
Show Your Real Housewives Love With a Giggy Vanderpump Valentine!
What's the best way to show that Real Housewives of Beverly Hills fan in your life that you really care? With a valentine from Lisa Vanderpump's pooch Giggy, duh! The Divine Addiction, the site run by Lisa's daughter, Pandora, has just the thing for your puppy love.
Giggy has already shown us he can rock a tuxedo, and now he's ready for romance decked out in his finest black tie. He's posed with a rose and... some sort of sparkly heart pillow? Who could resist?
You have two options: You can go with the classic card that simply reads, "Happy Valentine's Day," or the more adventurous one that reads ""Be My Valentine?" on the outside, and "Today's the day to get Giggy with it!" on the inside.
We'll take one of each!
Source: The Divine Addiction


text:
All quotes tagged Acceptable
(1506 quotes found)
"Acceptance of one's life has nothing to do with resignation; it does not mean running away from the struggle. On the contrary, it means accepting it as it comes, with all the handicaps of heredity, of suffering, of psychological complexes and injustices."
"The highest patriotism is not a blind acceptance of official policy, but a love of one's country deep enough to call her to a higher plain"
"It cannot in the opinion of His Majesty's Government be classified as slavery in the extreme acceptance of the word without some risk of terminological inexactitude."
"Now is the accepted time, not tomorrow, not some more convenient season. It is today that our best work can be done and not some future day or future year. It is today that we fit ourselves for the greater usefulness of tomorrow. Today is the seed time, now are the hours of work, and tomorrow comes the harvest and the playtime."
"Flow with whatever may happen and let your mind be free. Stay centered by accepting whatever you are doing. This is the ultimate."
"It's a funny thing about life; if you refuse to accept anything but the best, you very often get it."
"To choose a hardship for ourselves is our only defense against that hardship. This is what is meant by accepting suffering. Those who, by their very nature, can suffer completely, utterly, have an advantage. That is how we can disarm the power of suffering, make it our own creation, our own choice; submit to it. A justification for suicide."
"If we worked on the assumption that what is accepted as true really is true, then there would be little hope for advance"
"Anger is not bad. Anger can be a very positive thing, the thing that moves us beyond the acceptance of evil."