Newport Newsroom

Aspiring Actors Can Audition for Newport Playgoers

2012-01-31T09:35:00.000Z

Aspiring actors havethe opportunity to audition for NewportPlaygoers on Saturday 4^th February – and be cast in forthcomingproductions such as ‘Dad’s Army’, ‘Calendar Girls’ and ‘The Hound of theBaskervilles’.

Membersof Newport Playgoers in

their recent production of ‘Fawlty Towers’

(Photo: Phil Mansell)

Anyoneaged 18 or over is welcome to come along to the friendly, informal openauditions which will be held at the Dolman Theatre between 10am and 1pm.

NewportPlaygoers, who own and run the city’s 400-seat Dolman Theatre, stage eightplays a year and recent successful productions include ‘Fawlty Towers’ and‘Frost/Nixon’.

The Society is involved in the prestigious Royal ShakespeareCompany’s Open Stages project and will be presenting Alan Ayckbourn’s comedy‘The Time of My Life’ from 7^th – 11^th February.

Anyoneinterested in becoming involved and attending the open auditions can find outfull details by phoning 01633 263670 or visiting www.dolmantheatre.co.uk.

Newport Playgoers Select Bristol Writer's Play for RSC Open Stages

2012-01-12T13:02:00.000Z

A play written by a Bristol man has won a competition to be staged by Newport Playgoers Society at the Dolman Theatre – with the possibility of going on to be performed at Stratford as part of the World Shakespeare Year celebrations.

Winning playwright Russell Walker

Russell Walker’s play ‘To Sleep Perchance to Die’ explores the actor’s eternal nightmare of being pushed on to a stage not knowing the play or the words. Complete with surreal staging and plenty of blood-filled death scenes, it promises to be an innovative and lively production.

‘To Sleep’ is one of four one act plays that won the competition organised by Newport Playgoers as their contribution to the nationwide Royal Shakespeare Company’s Open Stages project which has over 260 amateur dramatic companies from all over the UK taking part.

“I was really pleased that my play was chosen for this prestigious event,” said 52-year-old Russell, a speech and language therapist who is originally from Kentucky, USA, but now lives in Clifton Wood. “The aim of the competition, which had entries from all over the world, was to give a modern take on Shakespeare and create something that today’s audiences will enjoy and find totally accessible. I hope that people will come along and enjoy an evening that promises to be full of fun and surprises.”

The ‘No Holds Bard’ festival of one act plays is at the Dolman Theatre in Newport from 15 – 17 March. Tickets can be booked by phoning the box office on 01633 263670 or visiting www.dolmantheatre.co.uk.

Actors wanted for RSC Open Stages!

2011-12-13T14:13:00.018Z

CALLING all actors! Here’s your chance to be in one of the four plays selected for the No Holds Bard festival of one act plays, which is Newport Playgoers’ contribution to the UK-wide RSC Open Stages event.

The plays will be performed on 15 -17 March 2012on the main stage. Each play is about 20 to 30 minutes with no more than 6 cast members. Sets will be simple, with the build starting on 12 March.

This is your chance to be part of an exciting project co-ordinated by the world famous Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC). Its aim is to embrace, develop and celebrate amateur theatre to re-forge the bond with the world of professional theatre. Newport Playgoers is proud to be part of this scheme which will culminate in a national showcase of amateur performances at the RSC’s home in Stratford-upon-Avon, to coincide with the World Shakespeare Festival in 2012.

The Winning Plays and Playwrights

‘Only Words Remain’ by Kevin Myers
Staff at a nursing home are faced with a puzzle when an elderly man with no name is placed in their care. But who is the mysterious Mr Smith? A story about love, loss and the power and persistence of language.

Directed by: Rosemary Bissex.

‘Poor Yorick’ by Phil Mansell
Yorick the jester is not dead – he’s on the road dying a death as he pioneers stand-up comedy. Failing miserably, he is persuaded by his tavern wench girlfriend Bess to return to Elsinore and get his old job back – but once there he becomes embroiled in Hamlet’s plans for revenge.

Directed by: Caroline Drewett-Mansell.

‘To Dream Perchance to Die’ by Russell Walker
A wildy surreal play exploring the actor’s nightmare - as it happens over and over and over again.

Directed by: Jes Hynes.

‘Roman and Julia’ by Gary Dooley
The course of true love for an elderly couple in a nursing home runs far from smooth – until a friend lends a hand.

Directed by: Russell Walker.

Playgoers Applaud Rhian’s £13,000 Charity Trek up Kilamanjaro

2011-10-03T12:38:00.002+01:00

A leading light with Newport Playgoers has raised £13,000 for Velindre Hospital – by swapping her greasepaint for walking boots and climbing up Mount Kilimanjaro.

Fund-raiser Rhian with members of the cast of ‘Humble Boy’. (PHOTO: PHIL MANSELL)

Rhian Mitchell raised the last £1,000 with a collection at Playgoers’ recent production of ‘Fawlty Towers’, and members of the cast of their latest production ‘Humble Boy’ took time out from rehearsals to congratulate her.

“So many people know someone - family friends or colleagues - who have been affected by cancer and have benefited from Velindre Hospital, so it seemed like a really good charity to support,” said Rhian, who lives in Usk. “I plan to do it again in a couple of years time, and raise even more money for this very worthy cause.”

Rhian Mitchell with fellow Playgoer Chris Powell in 'Humble Boy' (PHOTO: PHIL MANSELL)

The cast of ‘Humble Boy’, a modern take on ‘Hamlet’ set in a English country garden took a moment from rehearsals to congratulate Rhian on her achievement. Rhian can be seen playing the part of Rosie in the play at the Dolman Theatre from 11 – 15 October. Tickets can be booked by phoning the box office on 01633 263670 or visiting www.dolmantheatre.co.uk.

Two Hundred Turn Out to Witness Rough Justice in Victorian Trials

2011-09-20T10:25:00.008+01:00

Two hundred people packed out Usk courtroom to see magistrates and solicitors from all over Gwent act out real-life Victorian trials – and witness justice 19th Century style.

Magistrates and members of Newport Playgoers Society

played people from both sides of the law in the

mock Victorian trials.
PHOTO: PHIL MANSELL

The onlookers cheered and jeered as harsh sentences - ranging from transportation to imprisonment with hard labour - were handed out in the historic courtroom. The trials, which were adapted from actual transcripts, included neighbourhood disputes, stabbings and passing counterfeit coins.

“The event was organised to celebrate 650 years of magistrates in the UK, and was an incredible success,” said Revis Williams, one of the magistrates who donned period costume to take part.

A dramatic moment during the trials when

a woman is accused of passing counterfeit coins
PHOTO: PHIL MANSELL

“Some people thought we were professional actors which was very flattering. Everyone involved had a marvellous time and some of my colleagues are saying we should do it again – maybe even put on a panto!” she added.

Newport Playgoers played a key role in the success of the mock trials by lending Victorian costumes from their extensive wardrobe at the Dolman Theatre.

“We were only too happy to help out,” said NPS spokesperson Phil Mansell. “Two of our members wrote the script and took part, playing people in the dock on the receiving end of some tough sentences. The magistrates were so grateful they have made a donation to Newport Playgoers' wardrobe department.”

The cast of magistrates and solicitors in costume
PHOTO: PHIL MANSELL

Magistrates Sentenced to Go Back in Time and Experience Rough Justice!

2011-09-08T12:57:00.014+01:00

Local magistrates have been plundering the wardrobe department of Newport Playgoers to find Victorian costumes for a re-enactment of real-life court cases from yesteryear.

Magistrates, solicitors and members of Newport Playgoers
Society try on Victorian costumes at the Dolman Theatre in
preparation for their re-enactment of real life trials.
PHOTO: PHIL MANSELL

The public will be able to see harsh sentences and rough justice handed out in the historic courtroom at Usk Sessions House on Saturday 17th September when the magistrates stage their version of crime and punishment 19th Century style.

“The event is one of many celebrating 650 years of magistrates in the UK,” said Clare Drewett, who has written the script for the event based on actual transcripts of Victorian trials.

“It’s sure to be an entertaining and educational session which will provide an insight into how justice was meted out in the past. The trials include neighbourhood disputes, stabbings and passing counterfeit coins. I think people will be very surprised by the sentences which range from transportation to imprisonment with hard labour.

“Usk Sessions House is the perfect venue for the trials as it’s the only truly authentic Victorian court room left in Britain. We hope lots of people will come along and see this lively event - and join in as well by heckling and cheering from the public gallery."

The re-enacted trials will take place between 2 – 4 pm on Saturday 17th September at Usk Sessions House in Maryport Street, Usk.

Book into 'Fawlty Towers' for a fun-filled evening

2011-09-05T12:49:00.000+01:00

Waiting to welcome you to ‘Fawlty Towers’ are

Sybil (Nicky Davies), Basil (Alex Wilson),

Manuel (Ryan Salter) and Polly (Catherine Morgan)

It's a tall order taking a work from the small screen to the stage, especially when it's a timeless classic like 'Fawlty Towers' and the script has not been re-written or adapted.

"Que?" asks Manuel (Ryan Salter).
Polly (Catherine Morgan) tries to explain.

But that's just what Newport Playgoers will be doing when they present John Cleese's comic farce at the Dolman Theatre from 13 - 17 September. I was lucky enough to be able to go along and interrupt rehearsals to take some publicity photos last week, and was struck by how much everyone is enjoying the challenge of bringing this much-loved comedy to the stage.

Basil (Alex Wilson) and Polly (Catherine Morgan)
have problems with troublesome guest
Mr Hutchinson (Nathan Hodge)

The set was half-finished and slowly taking shape, the cast were in character and suitably attired, and director Jes Hynes was a little preoccupied with making the stuffed moose head that is vital to one of the scenes. It's worth pointing out that this is Jes's first time as director - he's appeared onstage in countless Playgoers productions - and he seems to be relishing his new role.

Sybil (Nicky Davies) chats on the phone whilst
Polly (Catherine Morgan) looks on

The production will feature three of the show's best episodes - 'The Hotel Inspectors', 'Communication Problems' and 'The Germans' in which Basil famously tells everyone "don't mention the war". It looks set to be a great night out at the theatre, so book your tickets now by phoning 01633 263670 or book online at http://www.dolmantheatre.co.uk/.

Thunderbolt is a Theatrical Treat

2011-06-14T15:05:00.000+01:00

I was fortunate enough to be able to sit in at the dress rehearsal for ‘The Titfield Thunderbolt’ which Newport Playgoers are presenting at the Dolman Theatre from 14 – 18 June.

Vernon Crump (Bruce Campbell), the Rev Weech (Richard Dymond) and Lady Edna Chesterford (Clare Drewett) have transport troubles in the marvellously madcap 'Titfield Thunderbolt'

Based on the popular Ealing comedy, the play is set in the 1950s when the axe loomed over many rural railway lines, and centres on the efforts of a group of gung-ho villagers to run their own railway in competition with a local bus company. To get a taste of the production, watch the low-res video below:

Making stage plays from novels and short stories is quite common, but to attempt this with a film screenplay - especially one involving a race between a train and a bus – is quite a challenge. Philip Goulding’s version of T E B Clarke's script pulls it off with style.

This highly innovative production, brilliantly directed by Claudia Barnes, races along, taking the audience into a zany world of nostalgia and feelgood fun. Theatregoers can expect the unexpected as the cast double- and triple-up in a number of larger-than-life roles and break the conventional rules by bringing the play off the stage and involving the audience.

I would highly recommend you book your ticket now for this fast-moving production. Phone the Dolman Theatre box office for details on 01633 263670 or visit www.dolmantheatre.co.uk.

Full steam ahead for the Titfield Thunderbolt!

2011-06-08T12:54:00.000+01:00

Theatregoers can expect the unexpected when Newport Playgoers go full steam ahead on ‘The Titfield Thunderbolt’ at the Dolman Theatre next week.

Based on the hugely popular Ealing comedy, the play centres on villagers’ attempts to run their own railway in competition with a local bus company.

This highly innovative production races along, taking the audience into a zany world of nostalgia and feelgood fun.

It’s at the Dolman Theatre from 14 – 18 June. Phone 01633 263670 for tickets. All aboard!

West End Star Caroline Sheen to Top Bill at Gala Night of Entertainment

2011-02-22T12:54:00.003Z

Top West End musical star Caroline Sheen,

who is currently touring America

as Mary Poppins, is returning

to Wales to top the bill

at a gala night of entertainment

at the Dolman Theatre on

Saturday 19^th March.

Mary Poppins will be coming to Newport– in the shape of top West End musical star Caroline Sheen, who is returning to Wales to top the bill at a gala night of entertainment at the Dolman Theatre on Saturday 19th March.

Caroline, who is currently touring America as the lead in the hit musical ‘Mary Poppins’, will join of host of talent from local musical societies, dance schools and Newport Playgoers Society (NPS), for an evening which promises to be packed with music and mirth. As well as singing a host of familiar favourites, Caroline will be performing songs from her debut album, ‘Raise The Curtain’.

A former pupil at Caerleon Comprehensive School, Caroline gained invaluable experience performing with Gwent Young People’s Theatre and the National Youth Theatre of Wales before going on to study at Guildford School of Acting where she graduated with first class honours. Her West End roles include Marty in ‘Grease’, Eponine in ‘Les Miserables’ and Truly Scrumptious in ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’.

“This gala event has been organised as a fund-raiser for Newport Playgoers Society which owns and runs the 200-seat Dolman Theatre,” explained NPS spokesperson Phil Mansell. “We’re really pleased to have such a talented and well-known performer as Caroline to headline a feast of entertainment that will include something for everyone.”

Tickets for the event, on Saturday 19th March are £15 - and include a glass of bubbly and canapés before the curtain goes up. To book, contact the Dolman Theatre box office on 01633 263670.

Medical mayhem at the Dolman Theatre

2011-01-22T09:49:00.001Z

There's nothing like a good laugh to banish the post-Christmas blues, and 'Nil by Mouth' by John Chapman, which has been at the Dolman Theatre this week is just the right medicine to cheer anyone up.
The play is set in the fictional hospital of St Christopher’s on a busy Saturday morning. Everything usually runs like clockwork but on this weekend a government inspector visits and things go hilariously - wrong thanks to under-staffing and confusion over which patient is which.

The cast is brilliant, the timing perfect, and the audience lapped it up. It's the last two performances today - at 2.30 and 7.15 - so if you get a chance go out and treat yourself to a great evening at the theatre.

The photo shows Patients Hilary Keats (John Sheen) and William Graham (Graeme Johnson) receive the very best professional healthcare from the hospital staff: Sister Downing (Elaine Hodgson), Nurse Layton (Jocelyn Guy), Sister Roughton (Caroline Drewett-Mansell), and Nurse Dolores (Fran Keirle).

One Act Play Festival in the News!

2010-10-11T14:55:00.001+01:00

The Hole in One Act Play Festival at the Dolman Theatre from 12 - 16 October continues to gain support, which will hopefully lead to big audiences this week.

Today an item about the many celebrities who have sent messages of support appeared in the local newspaper, The Argus.

Then, the morning post, which arrived as usual at 2pm, included a message of support from Simon Bird, one of the brightest rising young TV stars who is fast making a name for himself in series such as 'The Inbetweeners' and 'The King Is Dead'.

Simon joins such luminaries as writers Alan Ayckbourn, Tom Stoppard and Alan Bennett and actors Sir Ian McKellan, Dame Judi Dench, Michael Sheen and Helena Bonham Carter, who have all written to wish Newport Playgoers good luck with the festival.

Good luck message from TV star Simon Bird

Video of famous faces

2010-10-09T12:09:00.002+01:00

An amazing array of prominent writers and actors have sent good luck messages to Newport Playgoers as they prepare to tee off with their Hole in one Act Play Festival at the Dolman Theatre from 12 - 16 October. This video features a few famous famous faces:

Famous Names Support Premiere of New Plays at Dolman Theatre

2010-10-07T13:25:00.005+01:00

Michael Sheen, Alan Ayckbourn, Helena Bonham Carter and Dame Judi Dench are just a few of the famous names who have sent messages of support for a festival of one act plays taking place at the Dolman Theatre next week (12th – 16th October).

Phil Mansell with some of the signed photos
of support from writers and stars.

The Hole in One Act Play Festival, inspired by the Ryder Cup being held in Newport, features four brand new plays chosen by Wales’s top playwright Frank Vickery from over 40 entered in a competition to find new writing talent.

Taking an innovative and quirky look at golf, the plays include a couch potato who is given a free virtual reality golf session, the tale of how a down-at-heel crazy golf course attempts to revive its flagging fortunes, and a Pinteresque look at life, golf and everything.

“As the plays were the winners of a competition designed to encourage new writing for the theatre, I decided to contact prominent people in the arts to lend their support to the festival,” explained Phil Mansell, whose play ‘Bunkered’ is one of the plays featured.

“To my delight we’ve had a great response, including a message from Sir Alan Ayckbourn, signed greetings from Sir Ian McKellan, Sir Ben Kingsley, Prunella Scales and James Bolam - and a postcard from Alan Bennett apologising that he has no photos but sending his best wishes and hoping everyone has a grand time.

”West End star Connie Fisher wrote to say she might even pop in to see the plays as she lives in the area and her husband loves golf.”

Phil’s play is about the owner of a crazy golf course which is in dire straits because it’s at the downmarket end of a recently revamped seafront and unable to compete with the exciting and glitzy new attractions at the other end of the bay.

“I’ve been writing for as long as I can remember,” said Phil, who as a student at the London Film School, wrote and directed movies and has since worked in a variety of creative roles in advertising and PR. “Seeing my play brought to life by some of the best local acting talent has been amazing. I’m now determined to have more of my plays staged at the Dolman, and am currently writing a novel and working on ideas for a TV sitcom.”

Playgoers President, Bruce Campbell, said, “The standard of entries for the competition, which was organised to tie in with the Ryder Cup coming to Newport, was extremely high, and selecting four for this festival of one act plays was no easy task. Luckily we were able to call upon the considerable skills of playwright Frank Vickery as a judge, and the result is a fascinating mixture of plays which promises to provide a real theatrical treat.

“Having good luck messages from such prominent actors and writers is the icing on the cake,” he added.

The Hole in One Act Play Festival is at the Dolman Theatre from 12 – 16 October. For more information and to book tickets, phone (01633) 263670. More information is available online at www.dolman-theatre.co.uk and www.newportplaygoers.wordpress.com.

Festival of Golf Plays Set to Tee Off

2010-10-05T09:54:00.001+01:00

The Hole in One Act Play Festival starts next week at the Dolman Theatre. Here's a short video providing a glimpse of the delights to come.

Forget the Ryder Cup –Newport’s Other Golf Competition is Packed with Sex and Drama!

2010-09-28T16:03:00.003+01:00

The Ryder Cup is not the only competition centred around golf that’s being held in Newport in October. A festival of four new one act plays on the subject – featuring sex on a crazy golf course and a virtual reality driving range - is currently in rehearsal preparing to tee off at their premiere at the 400-seat Dolman Theatre from 12 – 16 October.

Taking an innovative and quirky look at golf, the plays feature the tale of how sexual blackmail is used to revive the fortunes of a down-at-heel crazy golf course, a couch potato who is given a free virtual reality golf session, and a Pinteresque look at life, golf and everything.

The plays are the winners of a competition organised by Newport Playgoers Society to find new writers for the theatre and were judged by Wales’s leading playwright Frank Vickery to be the best of over 40 entered for the competition.

“The standard of entries for the competition, which was organised to tie in with the Ryder Cup coming to Newport, was extremely high, and selecting four for this festival of one act plays was no easy task,” said Playgoers President, Bruce Campbell. “Luckily we were able to call upon the considerable skills of playwright Frank Vickery as a judge, and the result is a fascinating mixture of plays which promises to provide a real theatrical treat.

“We’ve had lots of support and congratulations from prominent playwrights such as Alan Ayckbourn and Alan Bennett, as well as messages from noted actors including Sir Ian McKellan, Dame Judi Dench, Michael Sheen, Richard Wilson and Prunella Scales. The letters are still pouring in and we’re hoping to hear from some of the Ryder Cup competitors including Tiger Woods,” he added.

The Hole in One Act Play Festival is at the Dolman Theatre from 12 – 16 October. For more information and to book tickets, phone (01633) 263670. More information is available online at http://www.dolman-theatre.co.uk/ and http://www.newportplaygoers.wordpress.com/.

Never mind the Ryder Cup – See Newport’s Other Golf Competition for Real Drama!

2010-09-27T17:50:00.000+01:00

The Ryder Cup is not the only competition centred around golf that’s being held in Newport in October. A festival of four new one act plays on the subject is currently in rehearsal preparing to tee off at their premiere at the 400-seat Dolman Theatre from 12 – 16 October.

Taking an innovative and quirky look at golf, the plays feature a couch potato who is given a free virtual reality golf session, the tale of how a down-at-heel crazy golf course attempts to revive its flagging fortunes, and a Pinteresque look at life, golf and everything.

The plays are the winners of a competition organised by Newport Playgoers Society to find new writers for the theatre and were judged by Wales’s leading playwright Frank Vickery to be the best of over 40 entered for the competition.

“The standard of entries for the competition, which was organised to tie in with the Ryder Cup coming to Newport, was extremely high, and selecting four for this festival of one act plays was no easy task,” said Playgoers President, Bruce Campbell. “Luckily we were able to call upon the considerable skills of playwright Frank Vickery as a judge, and the result is a fascinating mixture of plays which promises to provide a real theatrical treat.

“We’ve had lots of support and congratulations from prominent playwrights such as Alan Ayckbourn and Alan Bennett, as well as messages from noted actors including Sir Ian McKellan, Dame Judi Dench, Michael Sheen, Richard Wilson and Prunella Scales. The letters are still pouring in and we’re hoping to hear from some of the Ryder Cup competitors including Tiger Woods,” he added.

The Hole in One Act Play Festival is at the Dolman Theatre from 12 – 16 October. For more information and to book tickets, phone (01633) 263670. More information is available online at http://www.dolman-theatre.co.uk/ and http://www.newportplaygoers.wordpress.com/

Phil's crazy golf play's a hole in one!

2010-09-25T15:56:00.001+01:00

A writer from Newport has had his play selected by Wales’s top playwright Frank Vickery to feature in a festival of one act plays on the theme of golf.

Phil Mansell (above) entered his play ‘Bunkered’ in a competition run by Newport Playgoers Society to tie in with the Ryder Cup coming to the city. He was delighted when his play was judged by Frank Vickery to be one of the best four out of over 40 entries which will be staged as part of the Hole in One Act Play Festival at the Dolman Theatre from 12th - 16th October.

“It was great to hear one my plays had been selected for this innovative festival of new dramatic writing talent. The fact that it was chosen by Frank Vickery who is acknowledged to be one of today’s leading playwrights is the icing on the cake,” said 59-year-old Phil who writes for a living as a press officer at Newport’s University.

“My play is about the owner of a crazy golf course which is in dire straits because it’s at the downmarket end of a recently revamped seafront and unable to compete with the exciting and glitzy new attractions at the other end of the bay. Luckily his friends, an ageing hippy sandwich board man and a waitress from an ice cream parlour, come to his rescue.”

Phil has been writing for as long as he can remember. As a student at the London Film School, he wrote and directed movies and since then has had a variety of creative roles in advertising, marketing and PR. He has had five books published in the Netherlands and Denmark, three for teenagers and two picture books, which he also illustrated, for younger children.

Recently, he won the best drama award at the annual Writing Competition organised by the English department at the University of Wales, Newport, where he studied for a Masters degree in Multimedia. He has written several other plays which he hopes to stage at the Dolman Studio Theatre, and is currently writing a novel and developing ideas for a TV sitcom.

LEFT: In Phil’s play ‘Bunkered’, Tom (Graeme Johnson), the owner of crazy golf course, has to rely on ageing hippy Dylan (Bruno Cook) and Kath (Clare Drewett) from the Igloo Ice Cream Parlour to beat the recession and save his business from ending up in the rough.

The other three plays selected for the festival include the tale of a couch potato’s adventures on a futuristic virtual reality golf course, how disaster looms amid the bunting as a golf club prepares to celebrate its centenary, and a Pinteresque look at life and golf.

“The standard of entries for the play-writing competition was extremely high, and selecting four for this festival of one act plays was no easy task,” said Playgoers President, Bruce Campbell. “Luckily we were able to call upon the considerable skills of playwright Frank Vickery as a judge, and the result is a fascinating mixture of plays which promises to provide a real theatrical treat for everyone.

”There are prizes of £100, £50 and £25 and trophies for the three best plays – and the results will be revealed after the Saturday night performance,” he added.

The Hole in One Act Play Festival is at the Dolman Theatre from 12 – 16 October. For more information and to book tickets, phone (01633) 263670. More information is available online at:
http://www.dolman-theatre.co.uk/ and http://www.newportplaygoers.wordpress.com/
.

Newport Premiere for Pontypridd Writers’ Play

2010-09-23T13:59:00.001+01:00

Two aspiring writers from Church Village, Pontypridd have had their play selected to feature in a festival of one act plays on the theme of golf.

Mark Hardwidge and David D Thomas entered their play ‘Futagolf’ for a competition run by Newport Playgoers Society to tie in with the Ryder Cup coming to the city. They were both delighted when their play was judged by Frank Vickery to be one of the best four out of over 40 entries which will be staged as part of the Hole in One Act Play Festival at the Dolman Theatre from 12th - 16th October.

“We were really pleased our play was judged to be one of the best,” said 43-year-old Mark, an IT consultant who is married with two children.

“Our play is a futuristic story about what happens when a dedicated couch potato is given a free golfing session on a virtual reality golf course. Things start to go wrong when his coach, a computer-generated golf pro starts to run low on processing power and patience and a frenetic disco dancer turns up.”

Both Mark and David have enjoyed considerable writing success over the last few years. Mark had a short story called ‘Nirvana Inc.’ published in an American anthology, and a play called ‘Wild Merthyr Skies’ performed at the Chapter Arts Centre in Cardiff as well as two plays in the Dolman Studio Theatre.

David has been involved with amateur dramatics since childhood and has appeared in many Shakespeare productions. His play ‘Buzz’ won a prize in the Drama Association of Wales annual one-act scriptwriting contest, and his short story ‘The Ow Shop’ was published in an American Science Fiction/Fantasy anthology. He his currently working on a full length stage adaptation of Hans Christian Anderson’s ‘The Snow Queen’ to be performed by the Dolman Solo Theatre Company this December.

“I’ve always wanted to try my hand at writing something funny,” said 43-year-old David who is an IT Analyst Developer. “I think with ‘Futagolf’ we have achieved that, and can’t wait to see it performed on the stage.”

PHOTO: In ‘Futagolf’, couch potato Len (Peter Routley) engages in a duel with computer generated golf pro (Gareth Spreadbury) when he is given a free session on a virtual reality golf course. Then frenetic disco dancer Shaz (Alex Phillips) turns up to complicate things.

The other three plays selected for the festival include the story of how a down-at-heel crazy golf course attempts to revive its flagging fortunes to beat the recession, how disaster looms amid the bunting as a golf club prepares to celebrate its centenary and a Pinteresque look at life, golf and everything.

“The standard of entries for the play-writing competition was extremely high, and selecting four for this festival of one act plays was no easy task,” said Playgoers President, Bruce Campbell. “Luckily we were able to call upon the considerable skills of playwright Frank Vickery as a judge, and the result is a fascinating mixture of plays which promises to provide a real theatrical treat for everyone.

”There are prizes of £100, £50 and £25 and trophies for the three best plays – and the results will be revealed after the Saturday night performance,” he added.

The Hole in One Act Play Festival is at the Dolman Theatre from 12 – 16 October. For more information and to book tickets, phone (01633) 263670. More information is available online at http://www.dolman-theatre.co.uk/ and http://www.newportplaygoers.wordpress.com/

Newport Writer's Crazy Golf Play Set to Tee Off

2010-09-23T13:47:00.001+01:00

A writer from Newport has had his play selected by Wales’s top playwright Frank Vickery to feature in a festival of one act plays on the theme of golf. Phil Mansell (pictured above) entered his play ‘Bunkered’ in a competition run by Newport Playgoers Society to tie in with the Ryder Cup coming to the city. He was delighted when his play was judged by Frank Vickery to be one of the best four out of over 40 entries which will be staged as part of the Hole in One Act Play Festival at the Dolman Theatre from 12th - 16th October.

“It was great to hear one my plays had been selected for this innovative festival of new dramatic writing talent. The fact that it was chosen by Frank Vickery who is acknowledged to be one of today’s leading playwrights is the icing on the cake,” said 59-year-old Phil who writes for a living as a press officer at Newport’s University.

“My play is about the owner of a crazy golf course which is in dire straits because it’s at the downmarket end of a recently revamped seafront and unable to compete with the exciting and glitzy new attractions at the other end of the bay. Luckily his friends, an ageing hippy sandwich board man and a waitress from an ice cream parlour, come to his rescue.”

Phil has been writing for as long as he can remember. As a student at the London Film School, he wrote and directed movies and since then has had a variety of creative roles in advertising, marketing and PR. He has had five books published in the Netherlands and Denmark, three for teenagers and two picture books, which he also illustrated, for younger children. Recently, he won the best drama award at the annual Writing Competition organised by the English department at the University of Wales, Newport, where he studied for a Masters degree in Multimedia. He has written several other plays which he hopes to stage at the Dolman Studio Theatre, and is currently writing a novel and developing ideas for a TV sitcom.

PHOTO: In Phil’s play ‘Bunkered’, Tom (Graeme Johnson), the owner of a crazy golf course, has to rely on ageing hippy Dylan (Bruno Cook) and Kath (Clare Drewett) from the Igloo Ice Cream Parlour to beat the recession and save his business from ending up in the rough.

The other three plays selected for the festival include the tale of a couch potato’s adventures on a futuristic virtual reality golf course, how disaster looms amid the bunting as a golf club prepares to celebrate its centenary, and a Pinteresque look at life and golf.

“The standard of entries for the play-writing competition was extremely high, and selecting four for this festival of one act plays was no easy task,” said Playgoers President, Bruce Campbell. “Luckily we were able to call upon the considerable skills of playwright Frank Vickery as a judge, and the result is a fascinating mixture of plays which promises to provide a real theatrical treat for everyone.

”There are prizes of £100, £50 and £25 and trophies for the three best plays – and the results will be revealed after the Saturday night performance,” he added.

The Hole in One Act Play Festival is at the Dolman Theatre from 12 – 16 October. For more information and to book tickets, phone (01633) 263670. More information is available online at:
http://www.dolman-theatre.co.uk/ and http://www.newportplaygoers.wordpress.com/
.

Neil's Play is Write on Target!

2010-09-23T13:21:00.004+01:00

Neil Chapman

An aspiring writer from Chepstow has had his first play selected by Wales’s top playwright Frank Vickery to feature in a festival of one act plays on the theme of golf.

Neil Chapman (pictured, left) entered his play ‘Out of Bounds’ for a competition run by Newport Playgoers Society to tie in with the Ryder Cup coming to the city. He was delighted when his play was judged by Frank Vickery to be one of the best four out of over 40 entries which will be staged as part of the Hole in One Act Play Festival at the Dolman Theatre from 12th - 16th October.

“This is my first attempt at writing a play so I was particularly pleased it was judged to be one of the best,” said 45-year-old Neil who will also be acting in his play.

“My play is a Pinteresque look at life, golf and items dumped. In it, two friends, Frank and Louie share their thoughts on getting old and feeling valued, as they dodge golf balls. It’s an absurd comedy set where play is not permitted, but will hopefully make audiences think about that forgotten land that’s strictly considered out of bounds.”

Neil, who has been acting since school and has performed in everything from Ayckbourn to Zola, says that a major influence on his writing has been Anton Chekhov. Neil has previously directed two productions at the Dolman Theatre, 'I Take Your Hand In Mine' a biographical piece about Chekhov and his wife Olga Knipper and 'Afterplay' by Brian Friel which explored the imaginary later life of Sonya from 'Uncle Vanya' and Andrey from 'Three Sisters'.

The other three plays selected for the festival include the tale of a couch potato’s adventures on a futuristic virtual reality golf course, the story of how a down-at-heel crazy golf course attempts to revive its flagging fortunes and beat the recession, and how disaster looms amid the bunting as a golf club prepares to celebrate its centenary.

“The standard of entries for the play-writing competition was extremely high, and selecting four for this festival of one act plays was no easy task,” said Playgoers President, Bruce Campbell. “Luckily we were able to call upon the considerable skills of playwright Frank Vickery as a judge, and the result is a fascinating mixture of plays which promises to provide a real theatrical treat for everyone.

Neil’s play ‘Out Of Bounds’ is a Pinteresque look at life, golf and items dumped. Neil plays Louie who chats to his old friend Frank (John Sheen) about getting old - whilst dodging flying golf balls.

”There are prizes of £100, £50 and £25 and trophies for the three best plays – and the results will be revealed after the Saturday night performance,” he added.

The Hole in One Act Play Festival is at the Dolman Theatre from 12 – 16 October. For more information and to book tickets, phone (01633) 263670. More information is available online at www.dolman-theatre.co.uk and www.newportplaygoers.wordpress.com.

Newport Writer’s Play Selected for Golf Drama Festival

2010-09-23T10:14:00.000+01:00

A writer from Newport has had his play selected by Wales’s top playwright Frank Vickery to feature in a festival of one act plays on the theme of golf.

Phil Mansell entered his play ‘Bunkered’ in a competition run by Newport Playgoers Society to tie in with the Ryder Cup coming to the city. He was delighted when his play was judged by Frank Vickery to be one of the best four out of over 40 entries which will be staged as part of the Hole in One Act Play Festival at the Dolman Theatre from 12th - 16th October.

“It was great to hear one my plays had been selected for this innovative festival of new dramatic writing talent. The fact that it was chosen by Frank Vickery who is acknowledged to be one of today’s leading playwrights is the icing on the cake,” said 59-year-old Phil who writes for a living as a press officer at Newport’s University.

“My play is about the owner of a crazy golf course which is in dire straits because it’s at the downmarket end of a recently revamped seafront and unable to compete with the exciting and glitzy new attractions at the other end of the bay. Luckily his friends, an ageing hippy sandwich board man and a waitress from an ice cream parlour, come to his rescue.”

Phil has been writing for as long as he can remember. As a student at the London Film School, he wrote and directed movies and since then has had a variety of creative roles in advertising, marketing and PR. He has had five books published in the Netherlands and Denmark, three for teenagers and two picture books, which he also illustrated, for younger children. Recently, he won the best drama award at the annual Writing Competition organised by the English department at the University of Wales, Newport, where he studied for a Masters degree in Multimedia. He has written several other plays which he hopes to stage at the Dolman Studio Theatre, and is currently writing a novel and developing ideas for a TV sitcom.

LEFT: In Phil’s play ‘Bunkered’, Tom (Graeme Johnson), the owner of crazy golf course, has to rely on ageing hippy Dylan (Bruno Cook) and Kath (Clare Drewett) from the Igloo Ice Cream Parlour to beat the recession and save his business from ending up in the rough.

The other three plays selected for the festival include the tale of a couch potato’s adventures on a futuristic virtual reality golf course, how disaster looms amid the bunting as a golf club prepares to celebrate its centenary, and a Pinteresque look at life and golf.

“The standard of entries for the play-writing competition was extremely high, and selecting four for this festival of one act plays was no easy task,” said Playgoers President, Bruce Campbell. “Luckily we were able to call upon the considerable skills of playwright Frank Vickery as a judge, and the result is a fascinating mixture of plays which promises to provide a real theatrical treat for everyone.

”There are prizes of £100, £50 and £25 and trophies for the three best plays – and the results will be revealed after the Saturday night performance,” he added.

The Hole in One Act Play Festival is at the Dolman Theatre from 12 – 16 October. For more information and to book tickets, phone (01633) 263670. More information is available online at:
www.dolman-theatre.co.uk
and http://www.newportplaygoers.wordpress.com/
.

Crazy about Golf Course Turning up for Photoshoot!

2010-09-02T13:02:00.002+01:00

When Newport Playgoers needed to take photos on a crazy golf course for a new play they are staging they were amazed to find one turn up, as if by magic, on their doorstep.

LEFT: Crazy golf course creator Dave Lovatt (centre) with Playgoers Bruno Cook and Lauren Brown.

“It was unbelievably good luck,” said the play’s director, Caroline Drewett-Mansell. “A brilliant crazy golf course was built on the riverbank for the Big Splash weekend. It was the perfect setting for the photoshoot to promote the new play ‘Bunkered’ which is part of The Hole in One Act Play Festival we are staging in October. We spoke to the owner of the course and discovered he also works in the theatre in Bristol. He was very helpful and let us use his course for our photos.”

“I was only too pleased to be of assistance,” said the course’s creator and owner Dave Lovatt. “This is the first time we’ve used our new crazy golf course and we’ve been amazed at how friendly, fun-loving and welcoming the people of Newport are. When I’m not building crazy golf courses I’m working in the theatre – and my production of ‘Carny Village’ is at the Riverfront on Saturday 4th September,” he added.

The crazy golf course is the setting for ‘Bunkered’ by Phil Mansell, one of four new one-act plays which will be premiered at the Dolman Theatre in October. The plays were the winners of a golf-themed play-writing competition organised by Playgoers and judged to be the best by Wales’s top playwright Frank Vickery.

The other new plays, which to tie in with the Ryder Cup coming to Newport, all take an innovative and unusual look at golf, are 'Out of Bounds' by Neil Chapman, a Pinter-esque look at the absurdities of life, ‘Surviving the Century’, by Kevin Myers, which focuses on the planning of a golf club’s centenary celebrations, and ‘Futagolf’, by Mark Hardwidge and David D. Thomas, about a couch potato who is given a free session on a virtual reality golf course.

The Hole In One Act Play Festival is at the Dolman Theatre from 12 – 16 October. For more information and to book tickets, phone (01633) 263670. More information is available online at http://www.dolman-theatre.co.uk/ and http://www.newportplaygoers.wordpress.com/

One Act Play Festival ready to tee off

2010-08-13T12:24:00.002+01:00

The lengthy process of judging the 40+ entries for Newport Playgoers Society's play-writing competition is at last over, and Frank Vickery, Wales’s leading playwright, has chosen the top three.

A fourth highly commended play has been added to the programme to create what promises to be an exciting week of innovative new drama and comedy at the Dolman Theatre.

The plays for the Hole in One Act Play Festival 2010 are:

‘Out of Bounds’ by Neil Chapman (directed by Alex Wilson)

‘Bunkered’ by Phil Mansell (directed by Caroline Drewett-Mansell)

‘Surviving the Century’ by Kevin Myers (directed by Russell Walker)

‘Futagolf’ by David D Thomas and Mark Hardwidge (directed by Lynn Phillips)

The casting and rehearsal process has now begun!
More information: http://wp.me/P1057I-J

Golden Pond Performance Wins Steve Best Actor Award

2010-07-13T12:18:00.001+01:00

ABOVE: Steve Saunders is congratulated on winning the Webley Award by Caroline Drewett-Mansell who directed him in the play ‘On Golden Pond’.

Steve Saunders was named Newport’s best actor when he was presented with the prestigious Webley Award at Newport Playgoers Society’s AGM.

Steve won the coveted award for his portrayal of the grumpy old retired professor, Norman Thayer, in the moving family drama ‘On Golden Pond’.

“I was really pleased and proud to be voted the winner of this award, especially as I was up against some very tough competition from some of South Wales’s finest amateur acting talent,” said 50-year-old Steve.

“It was a marvellous production despite all the problems we faced such as having to battle our way to rehearsals in heavy snow.”

Steve had a particularly gruelling rehearsal schedule. As one of the key people responsible for overseeing the electrics for the 2012 Olympics, he left home at four each morning to travel to east London, did a full day’s work and then went straight to rehearsals at the Dolman Theatre in the evening.

ABOVE: Steve as elderly curmudgeon Norman Thayer in a scene from ‘On Golden Pond’ with Pam Elliott who played his wife, Ethel.

The Webley Award is given by Playgoers each year in honour of Thomas Webley, the Society’s first President, who was Principal of Caerleon College, which is now the University of Wales, Newport.

Playgoers are currently rehearsing their new season of eight productions which starts in September with Frank Vickery’s comedy ‘Family Planning’ and also includes the famous comedy ‘The Titfield Thunderbolt’, Terence Rattigan’s drama ‘Separate Tables’ and Alan Ayckbourn’s comedy ‘Role Play’.

Top photographer Rankin to snap Newport student's fashion designs

2010-05-18T13:07:00.001+01:00

Lisa Marie Jones, a student at Newport's University has been selected from thousands of fashion design students in the UK to have her innovative designs photographed by top photographer Rankin - who has created portraits of everyone from Madonna to the Queen.

PICTURED: My photo of Lisa with one her designs modelled by fellow student Bethan Seymour

The top ten students were chosen following Graduate Fashion Week in London when all the participating universities and colleges were invited to submit three garments that best display the breadth and talent of their designers’ collections.

Lisa's collection., which was inspired by Welsh goldmines, will be one of the highlights at the University’s annual Fashion Show on May 19th - 21st, at the Riverfront Theatre and Arts Centre. For more info, visit:
http://www3.newport.ac.uk/news/displayStory.aspx?story_id=469

Melanie Stephenson - beating diabetes in quest for Olympic gold

2010-04-29T13:18:00.000+01:00

As someone who has type 2 diabetes I was inspired when interviewing fashion student and athlete Melanie Stephenson (pictured, left) about how she coped when she was laid low by becoming insulin intolerant - she was on 10 insulin injections a day!

Thanks to medical science, Melanie, a student at Newport's University, is beating the condition after becoming one of the first athletes in the UK to be fitted with a special insulin pump to help her fulfil her ambition of winning Olympic gold – and she has already sprinted to silver medal success.
Diabetes is one of the biggest health risks in the UK, affecting 2.6 million people - a figure that looks set to rise alarmingly.
To read Melanie's story go to: http://www3.newport.ac.uk/news/displayStory.aspx?story_id=464

Ryder Cup Rap!

2010-04-22T13:16:00.001+01:00

A great coming-together this week of very different musical styles in Newport when top rappers Goldie Lookin Chain joined forces with a Welsh male voice choir to record an anthem to celebrate the Ryder Cup coming to the city in October.

The unique collaboration was the brainchild of three documentary film students at the University of Wales, Newport. To create a truly Welsh sound, it was decided to ask City of Newport Male Choir to sing on the chorus of the song and record it in the hi-tech sound studios used by the Creative Sound and Music students at the University.
Full story here: http://www3.newport.ac.uk/news/displayStory.aspx?story_id=459

These great photos of the recording session were taken by ace photographer Betina Skovbro. Check out her website: http://www.skovbro.com/

Going back to the basics with photography

2010-04-14T10:54:00.000+01:00

Went along to see one of the workshops in which youngsters from Newport are working with professional photographers from Brazil to discover the joys of making their own pinhole cameras and taking and developing photos. Ironic that when I came to snap them with their very basic cameras my fancy digital SLR died on me and refused to work! I had to borrow someone else's camera to take these photos.

The workshops were part of A Brush with Light, an innovative series of film and photographic works produced in collaboration between Newport's University and partner institutions in Brazil. Professional photographer Miguel Chikaoka (seen below looking at the photos produced by Clara Mitchell and Muz Abbas Hussain) has travelled to Newport to run workshops in traditional photographic techniques such as basic pin-hole cameras at the city’s Riverfront Arts Centre. Full story on: http://ow.ly/1yfQR

Newport Lecturer Nominated for 2 Bafta Cymru awards

2010-04-09T11:09:00.000+01:00

Peter Watkins-Hughes, who lectures at the International Film School Wales at Newport's University, has received two nominations for the forthcoming Bafta Cymru awards. One is for his film 'A Bit Of Tom Jones?' which was filmed in Tredegar and stars Gavin & Stacey’s Margaret John, Loose Woman Denise Welch, soul singer Geno Washington and The Mighty Boosh’s Matt Berry. It received a London premiere after it proved to be so popular when it was screened in local venues - even outperforming some Hollywood blockbusters.

Peter is also nominated for a Bafta Cymru award for Best Short Film for 'Cow', his hard-hitting piece on the dangers of texting and driving which caused a sensation when it received millions of hits on YouTube.

Check out 'A Brush With Light'

2010-04-08T15:34:00.002+01:00

This looks very interesting for anyone interested in the creative arts - particularly photography and film. A Brush with Light will showcase collaborative work between the University of Wales, Newport and partner institutions in Brazil. This will include collaborative films - many screened for the first time - as well as community based photographic projects from Newport and South America.

As part of A Brush with Light, there will be a programme of artist’s talks and presentations. These aim to set the exhibited works in context, and provide an invaluable opportunity to hear artists and other practitioners from both Wales and Brazil explaining their creative responses to the environments and communities around them. To find out more, visit: http://www.abrushwithlight.com/

Audiences will love Opal!

2010-04-08T13:23:00.002+01:00

THIS month, Newport Playgoers presents the quirky comedy, ‘Everybody Loves Opal’ by John Patrick. The plot revolves around Opal Kronkie, a middle-aged recluse who lives in a tumbledown mansion. Into her rather strange world come three con artists on the run from the police.

Hiding out in Opal’s house, they decide to bump her off to claim on the insurance. But their plotting never goes according to plan...

Pictured is Julian Powell as crooked Sol Bozo trying in vain to kill ever optimistic Opal Kronkie (Ann Harrison). (Photo by Phil Mansell)

For more details check out http://www.dolmantheatre.co.uk/ or phone 01633 263670 to book tickets.

Newport Playgoer in Death of a Salesman

2010-03-23T10:21:00.004Z

One of the leading lights of Newport Playgoers Society, Alex Wilson, is taking the lead role in Arthur Miller's classic 'Death of a Salesman' at the Chapter Arts Theatre in Cardiff this week. Alex, who is a salesman in real life, will soon be seen in Playgoers' production of Moliere's 'The Prodigious Snob' at the Dolman Theatre in June.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/showbiz-and-lifestyle/showbiz/2010/03/22/salesman-alex-takes-on-lead-role-in-a-classic-tale-91466-26080228/

Newport Film Graduate Scoops Award

2010-03-23T10:09:00.003Z

Congratulations to International Film School Wales graduate, Emma Pratt, whose short film ‘Brennan’s Sacrament’ was voted Best Student Film at the British Independent Film Awards.

Emma’s success comes as Kathryn Bigelow scooped the best director Oscar for The Hurt Locker - becoming the first woman to receive an Academy Award in the category - and Emma said, “Hopefully this means other women in the industry will be getting recognised for their achievements as well.”
Click here for full story: http://www.penarthtimes.co.uk/news/latestnews/5066408.Award_winning_film_director_thinks_big/

Budding Playwrights can take Centre Stage!

2010-03-12T08:57:00.004Z

To celebrate Newport hosting the Ryder Cup 2010, Newport Playgoers Society, which owns and runs the city’s 400-seater Dolman Theatre, is holding a competition aimed at encouraging the writing of plays for amateur theatre.

To enter the competition, budding playwrights are invited to submit one act plays on the theme of ‘golf’. Plays should be between 20 - 30 minutes in length using a cast of 2 - 5 actors. In addition to a cash prize, the three best plays will be performed in the Dolman Studio Theatre for three nights culminating in a gala evening when prizes will be officially presented.

An Adjudication Panel appointed by Newport Playgoers Society will read and consider the plays entered in the competition and, in addition to arranging production of the plays at the Dolman Studio Theatre, will award the following prizes:
1st Prize - £100 plus trophy; 2nd Prize - £50; 3rd Prize - £25.

To download an application form, go to www.dolmantheatre.co.uk.

Black Comedy Kicks Off Newport Playgoers 86th Season

2009-09-09T13:17:00.003+01:00

A man who's convinced his shopping trolley is a dog called Rover and a wellie-wearing cook who bakes almondless almond cakes are among the crazy characters in the hilarious black comedy that launches the new season of plays by Newport Playgoers Society next week.

‘One O’clock from the House’, written by local favourite, Frank Vickery, launches Playgoers’ 86th season at Newport’s Dolman Theatre.

The action revolves around the funeral of an elderly father - not usually an occasion for hilarity, but this is a play about a distinctly dysfunctional family. An amazing array of crazy characters - including a woman who's a happy inmate of a psychiatric home – turn up to make the proceedings very lively. Add to this a posthumous joke played by Father on his daughters and the fact that it is not exactly what might be termed a close-knit family, and the scene is set for a scorching comedy of personalities and situations.

Theatre-goers can use the newly revamped Kingsway car park where they can benefit from well lit, manned and secure parking for a fee of only £1 per evening performance – look for the Orange Zone which is specially designated for Dolman theatre-goers.

‘One O’clock from the House’ by Frank Vickery is at the Dolman Theatre from 15 - 19 September at 7.15pm with an extra matinee performance on the Saturday at 2.30pm. For tickets ring the Dolman Theatre box office on 01633 263670 or 01633 656757. For information about joining Newport Playgoers Society phone or visit our website http://www.dolmantheatre.co.uk/

Text and Drive Crash Video is Worldwide YouTube Hit

2009-08-25T10:43:00.002+01:00

A graphically realistic car crash video about the dangers of texting while driving, which has been produced and directed by a lecturer, students and graduates of the International Film School Wales, is scoring more hits on YouTube than scenes from the new movie by ‘Titanic’ director James Cameron.

The video, ‘Cow’, made by award-winning Documentary Film-Making Lecturer Peter Watkins-Hughes in conjunction with Gwent Police and Tredegar Comprehensive School, has quickly become an international viral sensation with over a million hits.

The 30-minute video tells the story of fictional character Cassie Cowen, ‘Cow’ to her friends, whose life is changed forever after her friends are killed in a horrific crash caused because she sends a text message whilst driving. Since the film had its premiere in June, it has attracted attention from the BBC and it is hoped the film will become part of the core schools programme across Wales and the UK.
“We have been stunned by the coverage the video has gained – it’s a genuine internet phenomenon,” said Peter who originally poster a clip from the film on YouTube to share with a friend at the BBC.

“The idea for the film, which is based on one I made about joy-riding fourteen years, came from students at Tredegar Comprehensive School. Gwent Police then commissioned me to make it to be shown in schools around Wales.

“I engaged students and graduates from the Documentary Film-0making degree course at the University of Wales, Newport to work on the ambitious 30-minute drama which focuses not only on the crash itself but its emotional aftermath within the families and the wider local community.”

The film was enhanced with computer technology to depict second-by-second a multiple car highway accident to emphasise the message of what can happen when drivers are distracted from the road by a texting conversation.
To view the clip on YouTube go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8I54mlK0kVw

For details of all film-making and all other courses at the University of Wales, Newport contact the University Information Centre on 01633 432432 or visit http://www.newport.ac.uk/.

Out to Africa to make monkey movies

2009-07-03T15:42:00.001+01:00

Met up with Cheryl Wagstaff, an amazing student film-maker who is going to Africa to help save endangered baboons by making educational movies for the internet.

Cheryl who’s studying Documentary Film and Television at the University of Wales, Newport, will be going to Johannesburg and Cape Town in South Africa to work for the charity The Great Primate Handshake.

She told me that chose to work with the Great Primate Handshake because it aims to help raise awareness of African primate sanctuaries and conservation programmes by harnessing the latest communications and multimedia technologies to broadcast their work to a local and global audience via the internet.

She wanted to give something back and decided this was the way to do it after finding out through the charity that 25% of primate species are close to extinction. She’ll be filming various primates to raise awareness about the problem. Apparently, the baboons in particular are in danger – the locals see them as a pest because they are moving into towns looking for food as deforestation destroys their natural habitat, and they are being killed. Working with teams in a fully equipped mobile workshop, Cheryl will be touring conservation areas and making films for the charity’s website.
She hopes the films she makes will educate people about the possible extinction of the baboons.

“Up to now my films have been about people so it will be a big departure making films about baboons!” she said.

Cheryl has so far raised £500 but needs another £1000 to be able to take part in the project. Anyone who would like to help her reach her target can email her on primatevolunteercheryl@hotmail.co.uk for details about the project, can visit http://www.primatehandshake.org/

For details of film-making and all other courses at the University of Wales, Newport call the university information centre on 01633 432432 or visit http://www.newport.ac.uk/

Newport Playgoers Scoop Seven Drama Awards

2009-06-01T12:26:00.014+01:00

PICTURED: Members of the cast of ‘Pack of Lies' which won five prizes at the Gwent Drama League Awards: (back, left to right) Caroline Drewett-Mansell, Alex Wilson, Philippa Dixey, Eileen Symonds; (front, left to right) the play’s director Moira Mainwaring, winner of best actress award, Ruth Ferguson, and best supporting actress Dominique Flook.

Newport Playgoers Society received plaudits from judges for three of its productions when it scooped seven of the awards, including best production and best actress, presented by the Gwent Drama League.

In the senior section, the true life cold war drama ‘Pack of Lies”, by Hugh Whitemore, won five awards. Ruth Ferguson was presented with the Best Actress Award for her portrayal of Barbara Jackson, and her onstage daughter, Dominique Flook, took the best supporting actress award. It’s another feather in Dominique’s cap as she has recently been awarded a place to study drama at Kingston University, London.

Moira Mainwaring, who directed the play, was given the Adjudicator’s Prize and the production also won Best Décor. “Pack of Lies” also won the overall prize for the best production and will now be submitted for possible inclusion in the National Drama Association’s British All Winners Festival in Woking, Surrey.

Professional judge, Sally Noble, of the Guild of Drama Adjudicators, praised the high standard of the productions included in this year’s competition, “The direction was intelligent and sensitive, and is one of the reasons why Wales leads the field among non-professional companies in the UK”.

NPS’s Dolman Youth Theatre group also won two awards with Best Supporting Actor and Actress trophies going to Connor Corbett and Zoë Preece for their interpretations of Will Scarlett and Meg in their production of “Robin Hood”.

And the success doesn’t stop there! Playgoers member Cathy Morgan has won the Bob McTurk Bursary for Young People at the Gwent Festival of One Act Plays for her portrayal of Mel in “Shakers – Restirred”, which will allow her to attend the Drama Association of Wales week-long summer school.

To catch more outstanding theatrical performances from Newport Playgoers Society, don’t miss the last production of the season, “Brassed Off” featuring the talents of the Markham Colliery Brass Band. The play opens on Tuesday 16th June and runs until Saturday 20th June. Tickets are available by phoning Newport 263670 or 656757.

“Perfick”Production of Darling Buds at the Dolman!

2009-02-13T13:16:00.001Z

Overflowing with a much needed dose of the ‘feel good’ factor, ‘The Darling Buds of May’ bursts onto the stage of the Dolman Theatre next week. Probably best known as the television series which starred David Jason and launched the career of a young Catherine Zeta Jones, the stage adaptation of the story is packed with humour and frolics as we follow the fortunes of the irrepressible Larkin family.

Audiences will love the antics of Pop Larkin as he wheels and deals to provide for his large family, his buxom wife, Ma, who ensures all are well fed, and delightful daughter Mariette as she woos tax inspector ‘Charlie’ Charlton with trips to the Bluebell Wood. It’s a journey back to a nostalgic past, when the darling buds of May were blooming in an idyllic country paradise and all was right with the world – at least in the Larkin family!

‘The Darling Buds of May’ by H E Bates is at the Dolman Theatre from 17 – 21 February 2009 at 7.15pm with an extra matinee performance on the Saturday at 2.30pm. Tickets are available by telephoning the theatre box office on 01633 263670 or 01633 656757. For information about joining Newport Playgoers Society phone or visit our website http://www.dolmantheatre.co.uk/

Research creates robot colonies – turning science fiction into science fact

2009-01-30T09:08:00.005Z

I went along to the Robotics Intelligence Laboratory at Newport’s University to see researchers there working on the creation of a colony of mini-robots able to communicate with each other so they can perform tasks both individually and as and a group.

It was amazing stuff. The team, led by Torbjorn Dahl currently have eight mini-robots and soon hope to increase this to 30, making it the biggest collection of mini-robots in the UK. Torbjorn and his team are programming the mini robots – which one the researchers described as being “the size of muffins” - to exist together as a self-regulating society.

The aim is to get the robots to simulate the behaviour of ants in a colony so that they become a self-organising community that functions without top-down control. They will have built-in behavioural patterns that enable them to not only do tasks set them but also realise what else needs to be done, as worker ants do. Each robot learns how to work in a way that improves the group by filling the roles of others as well as the role they are assigned to do. It’s all amazing stuff that could impact upon the organisation of towns, villages and cities, as well as improving automation in manufacturing. Check out the video I made whilst there…

True Life Spy Drama at the Dolman Theatre

2009-01-13T13:47:00.004Z

Imagine finding out that your close friends and neighbours are spies. That’s the real life story behind ‘Pack of Lies’ which Newport Playgoers are presenting at the Dolman Theatre next week (Tuesday 20 – Saturday 24 January).

Set in a London suburb in the early ‘60s, this chilling cold war drama opens with the Jackson family greeting their good friends and neighbours, the Krogers. However, events take an unexpected turn when a mysterious stranger called Stewart turns up and tells them there may be Russian spies on their doorstep.

PHOTO: Alex Wilson as the mysterious spy-catcher Stewart with Dominique Flook as the innocent girl caught up in a web of espionage and intrigue in Newport Playgoers’ production of ‘Pack of Lies’.

“The Jacksons are quickly thrust into the middle of an investigation that involves secret agents keeping watch from their daughter’s bedroom,” said Alex Wilson, who plays the role of the MI5 spy-catcher Stewart.

“Suddenly, even innocent actions take on sinister meanings as the family struggle with deception and lies - and choosing between loyalty to their country or to their friends. Hugh Whitemore’s drama, which deals with the role of the ordinary citizen in society, is a captivating story about extraordinary events in a seemingly ordinary setting,” he added.

‘Pack of Lies’ by Hugh Whitemore is at the Dolman Theatre from 20 - 24 January at 7.15pm with an extra matinee performance on the Saturday at 2.30pm. Tickets are available by telephoning the theatre box office on 01633 263670 or 01633 656757. For information about joining Newport Playgoers Society phone or visit http://www.dolmantheatre.co.uk/

Building a new City Centre Campus for Newport

2008-12-05T08:38:00.004Z

I was out and about on the construction site of the new City Centre Campus for Newport's University yesterday and it was great to see work beginning on a building that will revolutionise the riverfront area. Below is a short video I made of the progress so far...

Kathakali Comes to Caerleon

2008-11-24T13:52:00.004Z

On Friday I was privileged to see the Kala Chethena Kathakali Company prepare for their evening performance at Newport’s University. To go behind the scenes as the world’s foremost Indian dance drama company applied their elaborate make-up was amazing. ITV Wales were there to film the weather spot ‘live’ for the evening news so there was quite a buzz.

I took some photos of Ramachandran Unnithan as he went through the various stages of having his face made-up. Ramachandran specialises in playing villains and he certainly spooked me.

The performance at the University was the result of a visit to India by staff and students on the Religious Studies & Philosophy course in 2007. When they first encountered Kathakali in Kollam, southern Kerala, the group were so struck by the performance and elaborate costumes that the programme leader, Dr Lynn Foulston, was inspired to invite a Kathakali company to perform in Wales where the people of Newport could enjoy the spectacular display.

I’m pleased to say it was a full house. Full news of the event can be seen on the University’s website at: http://www3.newport.ac.uk/news/displayStory.aspx?story_id=338

Newport Graduate’s 007 Mission

2008-10-24T15:50:00.006+01:00

I was chatting to a really nice guy who’s created one of the hi-tech special effects for the latest James Bond film ‘Quantum of Solace’. Alistair Burleigh is a graduate of Newport University and designed a big glowing cube that flashes on and off to sultry Latin rhythms at a glitzy party thrown by the film’s villain. (Bond villains all tend to throw big parties these days – they used to just have secret cavernous lairs.)

Anyway, Alistair has a company called wrap3 which specialise in light sculptures (some of his work is pictured here) and it was while he was exhibiting at the Tent London design festival that someone told him they were from the new Bond film and were really impressed with his work.

“We’ll be in touch,” they said.

Ali never expected to hear anything but two weeks later found himself at a meeting being invited to provide the “wow factor” for the big party scene. The upshot was, he was flown out to Panama for two weeks to build the cube and run it to the music (he’s also a VJ).

During shooting, Ali met Daniel Craig, the latest incarnation of James Bond. Alistair won’t be attending the film’s premiere as he’ll be in Cannes working on another big project for one of the world’ top fashion brands. Nice work if you can get it. It was great chatting to a really innovative artist who’s doing great things on high profile projects but is really down to earth.

“Working on the Bond film was very exciting, but at the end of the day it became just another job,” he said.

Watch out for his contribution to the movie when it opens soon. In the meantime, check out Alistair’s innovative multimedia installations on his company’s website http://www.wrap3.co.uk/

The Dresser - Newport amdram at its best

2008-10-19T12:02:00.005+01:00

I went to see Newport Playgoers' production of 'The Dresser' last night and was again impressed at how good local amateur theatre can be. Everyone in it - particularly Lawrence Llewellyn as Norman, the dresser, and Will Smith-Haddon, as the ageing actor-manager at the end of his career (and his tether) - was absolutely brilliant. Great set to complement the acting and beautifully directed by Ruth Ferguson. Playgoers' next production will be Agatha Christie's classic country house murder mystery, 'The Hollow' - another must-see.

Newport hosts international festival of digital artists worldwide

2008-10-14T13:26:00.002+01:00

I was at the launch of an exciting new venture recently – a unique year long, on-line event which will showcase the work of digital artists worldwide, the International Festival of Digital Arts (IFDA).

By using the internet with enhanced video and sound quality, the Festival will transcend any traditional boundaries of time and space. There are several categories - including video and music - and anyone and everyone is invited to enter their work online.

I’ll certainly be entering some of my work – including a short film I’m working on about the love affair between a real person and their computer generated alter ego.

Partners in the Festival include the International Film School Wales which is based at Newport’s University, Newport City Council, Real Radio and The Riverfront Theatre and Arts Centre. Further details can be found on the Festival’s website: http://www.amritsa.com/idmf/home09.htm

Battles Galore in Backstage Drama Set in the Blitz

2008-10-08T13:32:00.001+01:00

It's 1941 and as the blitz rages outside a small provincial theatre, the effeminate personal assistant of a deteriorating veteran actor struggles to get his boss through a difficult performance of ‘King Lear’.

‘The Dresser’, this month’s production by Newport Playgoers Society, is the ultimate backstage drama. Written from first hand experience by Ronald Harwood, once dresser to the notorious actor-manager Sir Donald Wolfit, it tells of two men, both blotting out the real world through commitment to their craft.

Long-suffering Norman is the dresser to the legendary actor known as ‘Sir’ whose ragbag theatrical group of misfits tours war-torn Britain, stoically insisting the show must go on. The two are locked in a war of words as Norman encourages and cajoles ‘Sir’ to contend with his stage fright as he slowly cracks up under the strain of keeping his travelling Shakespearean company operational.

Theatre-goers are sure to enjoy this intense and claustrophobic adaptation of the award-winning play which became an Oscar-nominated film starring Albert Finney and Tom Courtenay.

‘The Dresser’ by Ronald Harwood is on at the Dolman Theatre from 14 – 18 October at 7.15pm with an extra matinee performance on the Saturday at 2.30pm. Tickets are available by telephoning the theatre box office on 01633 263670 or 01633 656757. For information about joining Newport Playgoers Society phone or visit http://www.dolmantheatre.co.uk/

Ghosts are Going - see them Now!

2008-10-08T12:49:00.000+01:00

The amazing 'Ghosts in Armour' exhibition at Newport’s Riverfront arts centre only has a few more days to run. This unique multimedia exhibition, which records the huge steelworks in the city centre that once employed thousands, was put together by students, lecturers and graduates of the University of Wales, Newport.

I was fortunate enough to visit some of the artists involved in the building just a couple of days before it was demolished. It was easy to see why the enormous derelict empty shell of a building that once bustled with life captured the imaginations of photographers Janire Najera and Matt Wright. I only wish I’d taken more photos of the steelworks before it was knocked down and gone forever. Here’s a link to an article I wrote about it in the latest edition of The Business magazine (pages 26-27). http://publishing.yudu.com/Aqn86/BusinessOctoberNovem/resources/index.htm

The story of the Exhibition on the University of Wales, Newport website:http://www3.newport.ac.uk/news/displayStory.aspx?story_id=30

And you must visit their website:

http://www.ghostsinarmour.com/