Choreographed and designed by Matthew Hart
UK National Tour: 3rd April to 3rd June 2012
A new ballet for children, by English National Ballet and English National Ballet School
Spring 2012 sees the unveiling of My First... a series of ballets bringing children their first taste of the magical world of ballet. This series follows the phenomenal success of the Angelina Ballerina ballets, which reached audiences of over 300,000 across the UK and the world between 2007 and 2009. ENB2 is a new touring company featuring graduating dancers of outstanding potential from English National Ballet School in performances produced by English National Ballet, continuing the initiative to bring ballet to young audiences.
The first ballet to be adapted in this way will be My First Sleeping Beauty. The show will be performed by the third year students from English National Ballet School in their first professional tour, so it will be a "first" for both audiences and performers.
My First Sleeping Beauty will give English National Ballet School students the opportunity to gain real work experience and dance principal roles, raising their profile and visibility as they prepare to enter the profession. The performances will enable a wider range of people and young children to engage with the school and ballet.
Anu Giri Director of English National Ballet School said "This is a huge opportunity for our students. You can teach them so much in the studio but when you put them in front of an audience that is when they really start their journey to becoming a performer."
Created with young attention spans in mind, My First Sleeping Beauty will be choreographed and designed by dancer and choreographer Matthew Hart. Matthew said "I am so thrilled to be choreographing this new production for English National Ballet and English National Ballet School, I want to create a really accessible way for children to enjoy this classic fairy tale, retaining the drama of the original ballet, but adding a real sense of fun and magic, giving youngsters their first taste of the world of ballet."
The dancers will wear the sumptuous Georgiadis costumes from the Company's full production of The Sleeping Beauty, with elements of the original sets also used, giving audiences the feel of a full scale classic ballet. However the story and choreography will be adapted, making it more approachable, fun and suitable for young audiences.
English National Ballet launched a worldwide competition for young artists to create the poster for My First... via creative community www.talenthouse.com, with the brief to create a piece of artwork that will appear on all the Marketing collateral, including the poster. Over 300 people from all over the world entered the competition with five artists short listed. The winner, chosen by English National Ballet, with the help of celebrated caricaturist and illustrator Gerald Scarfe, received £2,000 in prize money.
"I was impressed at the standard of the entries to the My First Sleeping Beauty poster competition", said Gerald Scarfe. "Some of the submissions showed real quality in draughtsmanship and individual style. It was a real challenge picking a favourite as I felt many of the entries had strong elements, and the judges were acutely aware that the winner would need to work as an advertising poster and appeal to children from the age of 3."
Mark Ruffle is the winner of the My First... competition; his artwork can be viewed at www.ballet.org.uk and on the tour leaflets and posters
Matthew Hart added, "We chose Mark Ruffle's design as it conveyed the sense of mischief and fun that I'm planning for the ballet. I absolutely love the colour and the humour of the design." Mark Ruffle said, "I'm absolutely delighted to be the winner of this competition. My 10-year-old daughter inspired me to enter as she is an aspiring ballerina and she will be thrilled! We can't wait to see the posters - and the show!"
Congratulations also to our three runners up, Katarina Prenda from Macedonia, Park Jiae from South Korea and Javier Joaquin from Argentina.
For booking information visit www.ballet.org.uk
Peacock Theatre, London
4 - 8 and 10 - 13 April 11am, 2pm
7 - 8 April 5pm
Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham
21 April 11am 2pm, 5pm
22 April 11am, 3pm
Grand Opera House, York
28 April 11am, 2pm, 5pm
29 April 11am, 3pm
New Wimbledon Theatre
5 May 11am, 2pm, 5pm
6 May 11am, 3pm
The Hawth, Crawley
11 May 5pm
12 May 11am, 2pm, 5pm
The Churchill, Bromley
19 May 11an, 2pm, 5pm
20 May 11am, 3pm
Wycombe Swan, High Wycombe
26 May 11an, 2pm, 5pm
27 May 11am, 2pm
Manchester Palace Theatre
2 June 11am, 2pm, 5pm
3 June 11am, 3pm
Notes to Editors
My First... background and further information
The story
In a glorious kingdom, the Queen gives birth to the beautiful Princess Aurora. Everyone in the kingdom is invited to the christening - everyone apart from the evil fairy Carabosse. Carabosse is so angry not to be invited that she places a curse on the Princess that, on her 16th birthday, she will prick her finger on a spinning wheel and die. The beautiful Lilac Fairy alters the curse so that Aurora will not die but will fall asleep for 100 years, only to be awoken by True Love's Kiss. Sure enough, on Aurora's 16th birthday, Carabosse smuggles a spinning wheel into the party and the Princess pricks her finger and falls asleep. A forest of thorns grows up around the palace.
100 years later, a handsome Prince is searching for true love and the Lilac Fairy takes him to the Princess. He fights his way through the thorns and wakes her with a kiss. The Prince and Princess celebrate their marriage with all their fairytale friends and live happily ever after.
There are films about My First Sleeping Beauty available at http://www.ballet.org.uk/details.php?id=16 and http://www.youtube.com/enballet#p/u/12/1Bg42Q7k3W0.
English National Ballet School
Founded in 1988 by English National Ballet, the School provides talented young dancers with the highest quality of training. Today the English National Ballet School exists as a separate entity to English National Ballet but maintains strong links with its parent company, sharing its commitment to quality, cultural diversity and accessibility.
The peer of the major ballet schools in France, the United States, Denmark and the UK, ENBS has trained countless dancers who are now working in major ballet companies worldwide. In 2011, 45% of the dancers at English National Ballet received their training there. For the past 10 years, the School has been officially designated 'Outstanding' by the UK Schools Inspectorate (OFSTED) and we usually achieve a 100% employment rate for our graduates.
Their three year, full time course provides a world class, comprehensive training in ballet, within a broader education which enables students to acquire personal and professional life skills.
Matthew Hart
Matthew Hart trained at the Arts Educational School and the Royal Ballet Upper School, and joined the Royal Ballet in 1991. Matthew began choreographing whilst at School aged 16, and continued in his professional career. In 1989, he created work for Dance Umbrella which was performed at Riverside Studios.
In 1991 Matthew choreographed a duet for Koen Onzia and himself entitled The Dream of the Cherry Blossom to music by the percussionist Evelyn Glennie for a gala in aid of RSPB at Covent Garden. His first professional commission Street, for The Birmingham Royal Ballet, was premiered in June 1993. This was followed by his first work for The Royal Ballet, Fanfare, which was premièred at the Royal Opera House in October 1993 and Caught Dance, premiered in Leicester on the Company's regional tour, Dance Bites, in February 1994.
For the 1995 Royal Ballet School performance he created a new version of Peter and the Wolf .
Matthew has also had a successful dancing career. He appeared in several ballets by Fredrick Ashton including Cinderella (Jester), Tales of Beatrix Potter (Squirrel Nutkin), Daphnis and Chloe (Bryaxis) and Ashton's Neapolitan Dance in Act III of Swan Lake. Mathew has also danced the role of the Solo Boy in Kenneth MacMillan's Dances Concertantes and created a role in William Forsythes Firstext.
Matthew's most recent choreographic commission was Cinderella for London City Ballet.
English National Ballet
English National Ballet is one of the world's great ballet companies, and celebrated its 60th year in 2010. The original vision - to take classical ballet of the highest quality to the widest geographical audience, at a price everyone can afford - remains the cornerstone of the Company's philosophy today. The Company of 67 dancers and full orchestra performs large scale, high quality classical ballet nationally and internationally, presenting the same scale and excellence on tour as in London.
The Company performs to an average of 200,000 people annually, and reaches hundreds of thousands more through its learning and outreach activities, broadcast, news, digital media and partnerships. Our artistic vision encompasses narrative classical works, including heritage productions; new commissions from contemporary classical choreographers; innovative learning and outreach activities; and celebrating the heritage and talent of the dancers. The Company has a strong reputation for creating new works and reinforces its accessibility by presenting these in proscenium arch theatres and, uniquely, in-the-round.
Mark Ruffle - Winner of the My First artwork competition
Mark Ruffle was born near Bristol in 1973. He graduated from the University of the West of England with a degree in Graphic Design in 1995. After leaving college Mark worked as a visualiser, then in 1997 started working for Oxford University Press as an Art Buyer.
Mark has been freelance since 2000 and has enjoyed working for a wide variety of clients including Aardman, producing illustrations for Flash. He has designed and illustrated web content for the BBC to accompany television programmes such as Hustle, Holby City and Bleak House. Mark works in Adobe Illustrator and is equally happy drawing illustrations for books, packaging, advertising or animation
Sunday 29 January 2012
The Chemical Brothers' 'Don't Think' Brings Festival Fever To Cinemas Worldwide In Dolby Surround 7
World's first concert film cinema release mixed in Dolby Surround 7.1
Dolby Laboratories, Inc. (NYSE: DLB) have announced that The Chemical Brothers—Don't Think, a film by acclaimed director Adam Smith, is the world's first concert film cinema release mixed in Dolby® Surround 7.1.
Filmed using 20 cameras at the band's 2011 headline show at Japan's Fuji Rock Festival, Don't Think was conceived to capture the Chemical Brothers' renowned fusion of visual and audio elements to give a fan's perspective of the show. The soundtrack, which was mixed by the Chemical Brothers, makes use of the improved panning, sound localisation, and enhanced definition provided by Dolby Surround 7.1's eight channels and four surround zones to realise the creative team's vision for the film. It has already been well received by the specialist music press.
"After 18 years of working on the Chemical Brothers' live show, we have finally captured it on film. You could almost say it's 18 years in the making," said Adam Smith. "I wanted to capture what it is like to experience the show from right in the middle of the crowd, as well as showing and combining the visuals featured in the show with the footage we captured on one night, to see how the music and visuals emotionally affect and connect with the audience.
"Mixing Don't Think in Dolby Surround 7.1 certainly helped us to achieve this like never before."
With over 45 feature films released or set to be released in the format to date and 3,400 cinema screens worldwide supporting the technology, cinemagoers are already experiencing the realism and immersive experience offered by Dolby Surround 7.1.
Along with Dolby Digital Plus and Dolby TrueHD, Dolby technologies deliver 7.1 surround sound experiences to consumers across broadcast, streaming, Blu-ray™, and home cinema systems, helping maintain the fidelity of the artist's creative vision, no matter how consumers choose to experience their works.
"Since its launch in 2010, Dolby Surround 7.1 has gained an impressive pedigree in helping content creators connect with their audiences through uncompromising entertainment experiences. As the world's first concert-film cinema release presented using Dolby Surround 7.1, Don't Think demonstrates another creative application for the technology as artists look for new ways to engage audiences," said Daniela Bischof, Product and Partner Marketing Manager, EMEA, Dolby Laboratories.
Once it is released on 1 February 2012, Don't Think will be shown on more than 500 screens in 20 countries.
FACTFILE:
The latest innovation from a pioneer in cinema sound, Dolby Surround 7.1 improves the spatial dimension of soundtracks and enhances audio definition. The result: full-featured audio that better matches the visual impact of movies.
With the ability for content creators to mix in a discrete 7.1 format, Dolby Surround 7.1 provides four surround zones to better orchestrate audio channels in a movie theater environment. The four surround zones incorporate the traditional Left Surround and Right Surround with new Back Surround Left and Back Surround Right zones. The addition of the two Back Surround zones enhances directionality in panning 360 degrees around the theatre.
Dolby is the global leader in technologies that are essential elements in the best entertainment experiences. Founded in 1965 and best known for high-quality audio and surround sound, Dolby creates innovations that enrich entertainment at the movies, at home, or on the go. For more information about Dolby Laboratories or Dolby technologies, please visit www.dolby.com.
Dolby Laboratories, Inc. (NYSE: DLB) have announced that The Chemical Brothers—Don't Think, a film by acclaimed director Adam Smith, is the world's first concert film cinema release mixed in Dolby® Surround 7.1.
Filmed using 20 cameras at the band's 2011 headline show at Japan's Fuji Rock Festival, Don't Think was conceived to capture the Chemical Brothers' renowned fusion of visual and audio elements to give a fan's perspective of the show. The soundtrack, which was mixed by the Chemical Brothers, makes use of the improved panning, sound localisation, and enhanced definition provided by Dolby Surround 7.1's eight channels and four surround zones to realise the creative team's vision for the film. It has already been well received by the specialist music press.
"After 18 years of working on the Chemical Brothers' live show, we have finally captured it on film. You could almost say it's 18 years in the making," said Adam Smith. "I wanted to capture what it is like to experience the show from right in the middle of the crowd, as well as showing and combining the visuals featured in the show with the footage we captured on one night, to see how the music and visuals emotionally affect and connect with the audience.
"Mixing Don't Think in Dolby Surround 7.1 certainly helped us to achieve this like never before."
With over 45 feature films released or set to be released in the format to date and 3,400 cinema screens worldwide supporting the technology, cinemagoers are already experiencing the realism and immersive experience offered by Dolby Surround 7.1.
Along with Dolby Digital Plus and Dolby TrueHD, Dolby technologies deliver 7.1 surround sound experiences to consumers across broadcast, streaming, Blu-ray™, and home cinema systems, helping maintain the fidelity of the artist's creative vision, no matter how consumers choose to experience their works.
"Since its launch in 2010, Dolby Surround 7.1 has gained an impressive pedigree in helping content creators connect with their audiences through uncompromising entertainment experiences. As the world's first concert-film cinema release presented using Dolby Surround 7.1, Don't Think demonstrates another creative application for the technology as artists look for new ways to engage audiences," said Daniela Bischof, Product and Partner Marketing Manager, EMEA, Dolby Laboratories.
Once it is released on 1 February 2012, Don't Think will be shown on more than 500 screens in 20 countries.
FACTFILE:
The latest innovation from a pioneer in cinema sound, Dolby Surround 7.1 improves the spatial dimension of soundtracks and enhances audio definition. The result: full-featured audio that better matches the visual impact of movies.
With the ability for content creators to mix in a discrete 7.1 format, Dolby Surround 7.1 provides four surround zones to better orchestrate audio channels in a movie theater environment. The four surround zones incorporate the traditional Left Surround and Right Surround with new Back Surround Left and Back Surround Right zones. The addition of the two Back Surround zones enhances directionality in panning 360 degrees around the theatre.
Dolby is the global leader in technologies that are essential elements in the best entertainment experiences. Founded in 1965 and best known for high-quality audio and surround sound, Dolby creates innovations that enrich entertainment at the movies, at home, or on the go. For more information about Dolby Laboratories or Dolby technologies, please visit www.dolby.com.
Thursday 26 January 2012
Templeton Pek launch EP
TEMPLETON PEK
“Slow Down For Nothing” (EP)
Available as: Digipak CD; Digital Download
Release Date: January 30th, 2012
People Like You Records
TEMPLETON PEK have spent the summer of 2011 supporting USA giants – Rise Against across Europe and appearing alongside Good Charlotte, Bullet for My Valentine at major festivals. The Band signed to People Like You Records and headed into Modern World Studios with producer Greg Haver (Manic Street Preachers/Lost Prophets/Bullet For My Valentine) to create the brand new EP “Slow Down For Nothing”
TEMPLETON PEK about “Slow Down For Nothing” (EP):
Signs: The first song we wrote post "Scratches & Scars" sessions, a great summary of the band with cross sections of different styles which gives a good taste of what we are about. Theme-wise; The song is about looking forward and not clinging to the past, a theme that resonates throughout this EP, as we feel it's a real transition for us.
What Are You Waiting For: We knew straight away that this song would work well with real strings, it turned out better than we expected, very epic. For us this is the most radio friendly song on the EP, and again has quite a few styles in there including an uplifting middle eight. This song is about having patience and picking your battles to win the war. Sometimes you need to lose to win.
Clarity: A powerful anthem of taking control of your own destiny and moving onwards beyond doubt, this song translates great live.
Call To Disarm: A strong opening riff and pacey feel with a nice breakdown section before unleashing to the end. This song is about making your own luck and not waiting or relying on someone to do your work for you.
Conflict In Memory: This song is about how different people perceive the same thing. Everyone's recollections are their own. A very anthemic chorus breaks up a vicious verse accompanied by some haunting strings.
Background:
Since this industrious unit’s inception back in early 2008, TEMPLETON PEK have certainly made a name for themselves as a seasoned touring outfit, racking up impressive supports with the likes of Mindless Self Indulgence, Pennywise, Bad Religion, Rise Against, Funeral For A Friend, Killswitch Engage, Taking Back Sunday, No Use For A Name, All Time Low, Zebrahead, Millencolin and Story Of The Year. In a little over two years, they’ve bagged arena shows on Taste Of Chaos and Give It A Name Tours and relentlessly headlined shows throughout the UK and Europe. Last year they also toured with Epitaph’s Welsh crew The Blackout, spanning the depths of Luxembourg, France, Germany, Austria, Czech Rep, Switzerland and Belgium.
TEMPLETON PEK’s debut album “No Association”, unleashed during the winter of 2008, garnered much critical acclaim, gathering famous fans along the way including Bruce Dickinson (Iron Maiden) quoting the album as “an excellent album...razor sharp nuggets.” The band also enjoyed expansive media coverage from the likes of MTV2, Scuzz, Kerrang! Radio, XFM, BBC 6music, Rocksound, Big Cheese, SLAM! and Kerrang!
The band’s eagerly awaited second album, “Scratches & Scars” raised the bar both musically and lyrically. With driving rhythms and almost effortlessly woven punk-rock melodies, the three-piece have produced an album of boundless sincerity packed with punchy riffs and peppered with alluring hooks, all set against a modern-day backdrop.
From the anthemic and fiercely rhythmic first single “Barriers” which racked up Record Of The Week on Kerrang! Radio, to the bone crushing melodic hardcore beatings of “Made To Waste”, through to the innovate dynamism and astute guile of “Red_Lights_Flash” (which is also featured on the Colin McCrae: Dirt 2 game soundtrack alongside the likes of Biffy Clyro, Queens Of the Stone Age and You Me At Six), “Scratches & Scars” is a clear statement of intent fuelled by a candid and earnest driving DIY ethos. Recorded, written and produced solely by the band, it’s evident that the progressive trio are not manufactured, are not dictated to for how they should sound, and strive with integrity towards uncharted pathways.
Templeton Pek Official
www.facebook.com/templetonpek
“Slow Down For Nothing” (EP)
Available as: Digipak CD; Digital Download
Release Date: January 30th, 2012
People Like You Records
TEMPLETON PEK have spent the summer of 2011 supporting USA giants – Rise Against across Europe and appearing alongside Good Charlotte, Bullet for My Valentine at major festivals. The Band signed to People Like You Records and headed into Modern World Studios with producer Greg Haver (Manic Street Preachers/Lost Prophets/Bullet For My Valentine) to create the brand new EP “Slow Down For Nothing”
TEMPLETON PEK about “Slow Down For Nothing” (EP):
Signs: The first song we wrote post "Scratches & Scars" sessions, a great summary of the band with cross sections of different styles which gives a good taste of what we are about. Theme-wise; The song is about looking forward and not clinging to the past, a theme that resonates throughout this EP, as we feel it's a real transition for us.
What Are You Waiting For: We knew straight away that this song would work well with real strings, it turned out better than we expected, very epic. For us this is the most radio friendly song on the EP, and again has quite a few styles in there including an uplifting middle eight. This song is about having patience and picking your battles to win the war. Sometimes you need to lose to win.
Clarity: A powerful anthem of taking control of your own destiny and moving onwards beyond doubt, this song translates great live.
Call To Disarm: A strong opening riff and pacey feel with a nice breakdown section before unleashing to the end. This song is about making your own luck and not waiting or relying on someone to do your work for you.
Conflict In Memory: This song is about how different people perceive the same thing. Everyone's recollections are their own. A very anthemic chorus breaks up a vicious verse accompanied by some haunting strings.
Background:
Since this industrious unit’s inception back in early 2008, TEMPLETON PEK have certainly made a name for themselves as a seasoned touring outfit, racking up impressive supports with the likes of Mindless Self Indulgence, Pennywise, Bad Religion, Rise Against, Funeral For A Friend, Killswitch Engage, Taking Back Sunday, No Use For A Name, All Time Low, Zebrahead, Millencolin and Story Of The Year. In a little over two years, they’ve bagged arena shows on Taste Of Chaos and Give It A Name Tours and relentlessly headlined shows throughout the UK and Europe. Last year they also toured with Epitaph’s Welsh crew The Blackout, spanning the depths of Luxembourg, France, Germany, Austria, Czech Rep, Switzerland and Belgium.
TEMPLETON PEK’s debut album “No Association”, unleashed during the winter of 2008, garnered much critical acclaim, gathering famous fans along the way including Bruce Dickinson (Iron Maiden) quoting the album as “an excellent album...razor sharp nuggets.” The band also enjoyed expansive media coverage from the likes of MTV2, Scuzz, Kerrang! Radio, XFM, BBC 6music, Rocksound, Big Cheese, SLAM! and Kerrang!
The band’s eagerly awaited second album, “Scratches & Scars” raised the bar both musically and lyrically. With driving rhythms and almost effortlessly woven punk-rock melodies, the three-piece have produced an album of boundless sincerity packed with punchy riffs and peppered with alluring hooks, all set against a modern-day backdrop.
From the anthemic and fiercely rhythmic first single “Barriers” which racked up Record Of The Week on Kerrang! Radio, to the bone crushing melodic hardcore beatings of “Made To Waste”, through to the innovate dynamism and astute guile of “Red_Lights_Flash” (which is also featured on the Colin McCrae: Dirt 2 game soundtrack alongside the likes of Biffy Clyro, Queens Of the Stone Age and You Me At Six), “Scratches & Scars” is a clear statement of intent fuelled by a candid and earnest driving DIY ethos. Recorded, written and produced solely by the band, it’s evident that the progressive trio are not manufactured, are not dictated to for how they should sound, and strive with integrity towards uncharted pathways.
Templeton Pek Official
www.facebook.com/templetonpek
Thursday 19 January 2012
That's Home and Household: New Chinese lanterns developed to extinguish fire ...
That's Home and Household: New Chinese lanterns developed to extinguish fire ...: In response to safety fears over the fire risks posed by Chinese lanterns, Sky Orbs the firm behind the first wire-free, 100% biodegrad...
Squigs Free: New arcade version of Squigs iOS puzzle game – free for 2012
Retro match-three puzzle game now compatible with all iOS devices in new six-level free version-
Squigs, the popular revamp of the classic 1990s Amiga puzzle game ported to Apple iOS in 2011, now has a fresh 2012 release in the shape of Squigs Free - an all-action arcade-style free version of the game for the Apple iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad.
Squigs Free features the addictive game play of the original Squigs game, plus quick progression to harder levels, high-score targets for rapid gameplay and six all-new levels leading to the dark Squigs.
Squigs, originally released for the Amiga 500 computer in 1993, challenges players to align characters of the same colour vertically, horizontally and diagonally. Players must manoeuvre and rearrange the falling Squigs to eliminate them and avoid overflowing the play well while taking advantage of power-ups and achievement awards to gain the highest score.
Jon Hibbins, head of the modern Squigs development team and original game creator said: “We’ve seen a great response to the full iOS version of Squigs and decided to include a taste of all the best aspects in a new, free, arcade style version of the game.
"Squigs Free allows players to experience all the addictive gameplay of the full game in a rapid, fast-paced, six-level high-score challenge. Together, Squigs and Squigs Free offer the perfect combination of gaming styles for all Apple iOS device owners.”
Squigs for iOS was released in November 2011 as an iOS iPhone application. The new version of the full-featured paid game, available from January 2012, is a universal iOS application for iPad and iPhone devices available in the Apple App Store for £0.69 / $0.99.
For up-to-date game news and updates, go to Squigs.com and read the blog, or follow @SquigsGame on Twitter.
The company’s survey of iPhone user opinions and user behaviour can be accessed at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/squigs-survey.
Squigs, the popular revamp of the classic 1990s Amiga puzzle game ported to Apple iOS in 2011, now has a fresh 2012 release in the shape of Squigs Free - an all-action arcade-style free version of the game for the Apple iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad.
Squigs Free features the addictive game play of the original Squigs game, plus quick progression to harder levels, high-score targets for rapid gameplay and six all-new levels leading to the dark Squigs.
Squigs, originally released for the Amiga 500 computer in 1993, challenges players to align characters of the same colour vertically, horizontally and diagonally. Players must manoeuvre and rearrange the falling Squigs to eliminate them and avoid overflowing the play well while taking advantage of power-ups and achievement awards to gain the highest score.
Jon Hibbins, head of the modern Squigs development team and original game creator said: “We’ve seen a great response to the full iOS version of Squigs and decided to include a taste of all the best aspects in a new, free, arcade style version of the game.
"Squigs Free allows players to experience all the addictive gameplay of the full game in a rapid, fast-paced, six-level high-score challenge. Together, Squigs and Squigs Free offer the perfect combination of gaming styles for all Apple iOS device owners.”
Squigs for iOS was released in November 2011 as an iOS iPhone application. The new version of the full-featured paid game, available from January 2012, is a universal iOS application for iPad and iPhone devices available in the Apple App Store for £0.69 / $0.99.
For up-to-date game news and updates, go to Squigs.com and read the blog, or follow @SquigsGame on Twitter.
The company’s survey of iPhone user opinions and user behaviour can be accessed at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/squigs-survey.
Tuesday 17 January 2012
That's Technology: Watch out, Hollywood is trying to steal YOUR Inter...
That's Technology: Watch out, Hollywood is trying to steal YOUR Inter...: Whilst That's Technology has decided to continue publication (we want to being you technology news, not be a part of the story!) That's Tech...
Lerosy Mission slates Aardman for disability discrimination over Pirates film!
A prominent leprosy charity has slated the trailer for a new animated film that portrays those affected by the disease for humorous effect.
The trailer promoting Aardman’s ‘The Pirates! – In An Adventure With Scientists', due for release in March, combines what the Mission calls: "An astonishing insensitivity with a lack of awareness of disability issues when it shows an arm falling off a character on a so-called ‘leper boat’."
In the scene, the ‘Pirate Captain’, voiced by Hugh Grant, arrives on the ship demanding gold. He is told by a crewmember that there is none on board because “this is a leper boat”, at which point the man’s arm falls off. This is, of course, meant to be comical.
Since 1874, the Leprosy Mission England and Wales (TLMEW) has been working to eliminate the causes and consequences of leprosy. The disabilities it can cause currently affect around three million people worldwide, and over 200,000 new cases were diagnosed in 2010. An important part of The Leprosy Mission’s work today is to educate to ensure that the word leper is not used in public life or condoned by media channels.
Says Peter Walker, National Director of TLMEW, “The word leper is derogatory, outdated, and is associated with someone who has been rejected, ostracised or regarded as an outcast.
“People affected by leprosy have asked that the word no longer be used. It is an offensive term that has historically been used to justify appalling treatment and the passing of stigmatising legislation.
“I find myself at a total loss as to why a modern filmmaker should find it acceptable to portray a disease associated with discrimination and loss as something humorous. They have also ensured that facts do not get in the way of their story by portraying a totally erroneous aspect of leprosy – the misnomer that body parts fall off those affected – despite the wealth of educational information coming from TLMEW and other leprosy organisations.
“Every two minutes, a person, possibly a child, is diagnosed with leprosy. They will be scared of the disease and the terrible discrimination it will probably bring and they will invariably be one of the poorest of the poor.”
He continues: “They will face the triple whammy of disease, disability and discrimination within their own societies. Now, thanks to Aardman they will face the added humiliation of being seen as a soft target for half-witted humour. It is dire and discriminatory”.
The Leprosy Mission is calling for the scene to be removed from the film, as well as for an apology to be issued by those involved in its production.
@leprosytalk
www.worldleprosyday.org.uk
The trailer promoting Aardman’s ‘The Pirates! – In An Adventure With Scientists', due for release in March, combines what the Mission calls: "An astonishing insensitivity with a lack of awareness of disability issues when it shows an arm falling off a character on a so-called ‘leper boat’."
In the scene, the ‘Pirate Captain’, voiced by Hugh Grant, arrives on the ship demanding gold. He is told by a crewmember that there is none on board because “this is a leper boat”, at which point the man’s arm falls off. This is, of course, meant to be comical.
Since 1874, the Leprosy Mission England and Wales (TLMEW) has been working to eliminate the causes and consequences of leprosy. The disabilities it can cause currently affect around three million people worldwide, and over 200,000 new cases were diagnosed in 2010. An important part of The Leprosy Mission’s work today is to educate to ensure that the word leper is not used in public life or condoned by media channels.
Says Peter Walker, National Director of TLMEW, “The word leper is derogatory, outdated, and is associated with someone who has been rejected, ostracised or regarded as an outcast.
“People affected by leprosy have asked that the word no longer be used. It is an offensive term that has historically been used to justify appalling treatment and the passing of stigmatising legislation.
“I find myself at a total loss as to why a modern filmmaker should find it acceptable to portray a disease associated with discrimination and loss as something humorous. They have also ensured that facts do not get in the way of their story by portraying a totally erroneous aspect of leprosy – the misnomer that body parts fall off those affected – despite the wealth of educational information coming from TLMEW and other leprosy organisations.
“Every two minutes, a person, possibly a child, is diagnosed with leprosy. They will be scared of the disease and the terrible discrimination it will probably bring and they will invariably be one of the poorest of the poor.”
He continues: “They will face the triple whammy of disease, disability and discrimination within their own societies. Now, thanks to Aardman they will face the added humiliation of being seen as a soft target for half-witted humour. It is dire and discriminatory”.
The Leprosy Mission is calling for the scene to be removed from the film, as well as for an apology to be issued by those involved in its production.
@leprosytalk
www.worldleprosyday.org.uk
That's Travel: lastminute.com unveils its Top Secret collection
That's Travel: lastminute.com unveils its Top Secret collection: lastminute.com, the UK's largest online hotel, travel and leisure specialist recently open...
Hormonal Housewives Spring Tour 2012 - Starring Margi Clarke With FULL venue list!
Following its sell-out tour of Scotland Hormonal Housewives commences a national tour of the UK opening at the New Wimbledon Theatre on 22 February touring through to May. See tour listings below.
Starring Margi Clarke with Kay Purcell and Laura Checkley
"Ticked all the right boxes. The audience loved it." - Edinburgh Evening News
Hormonal Housewives is an hilarious comedy written by husband and wife team Julie Coombe and John McIsaac and follows the lives of three women as they battle against weight gain, weight loss, mood swings, wine, PMS, men, going to the gym, waxing, stretch marks, men, chocolate, upper-lip hair, chocolate, men, chocolate ... and all the other joys of being a 21st Century girl....did we mention chocolate and men?!
"Coombe has moments of comic genius." - The Scotsman
In the Eighties, Liverpool-born MARGI CLARKE was the lead singer of various punk bands, once supporting Adam And The Ants. After starting as a presenter for Granada, she moved into acting with a role in Channel 4 soap Brookside, before finding recognition in 1985 with a role in cult British film Letter To Brezhnev, widely regarded as one of the most important British films of all time which went on to become a huge international hit.
Her TV acting credits include Tyrone Dobb's mum in Coronation Street, Queenie in Making Out as well as parts in Casualty, Family Affairs and Benidorm. She's also continued to present programmes including the late night ITV show The Good Sex Guide which gained unheard-of audience figures of 13 million for a show that aired at 10.35pm and won the RTS Awards for "Best Female Presenter" Margi was subsequently offered her own daytime show, Swank, which ran for two series. A regular guest on The Word, Margi also appeared in the 2011 series of Celebrity Master Chef..
KAY PURCELL is well known for her role as Gina Conway in the highly successful Tracy Beaker series, Candice Smilie in Waterloo Road and Cynthia Dogget in Emmerdale. She also appeared in Celebrity Fit Club.
LAURA CHECKLEY is one half of the hilarious female double act 'Checkley & Bush' who reached the finals of "The UK Funny Women Awards". Laura runs her own comedy night in Leicester Square, where it is fast becoming one of the best character comedy nights on the circuit.
Hormonal Housewives directed by Hannah Chissick with set and costume design by Phillip Witcomb and lighting design by Ben Cracknell
Hannah Chissick is a highly successful young theatre director. She became the youngest ever recipient of the Channel 4 Theatre Directors bursary going to Derby Playhouse as Assistant and then Associate Director. She then went on to become the youngest Artistic Director in the country running Harrogate Theatre for 3 years.
Tour list 2012
FEBRUARY 2012
New Wimbledon Theatre 22-25 Feb
Eves 7.30pm matinee Saturday 25 Feb 2.30pm Box Office 0844 871 7646
Milton Keynes Theatre 26 Feb @7.30pm Box Office 0844 871 7652
Dartford, Orchard Theatre 28 Feb @7.30pm Box Office 01322 220000
Cardiff New Theatre 29 Feb & 1st March @8pm Box Office 029 2087 8889
MARCH 2012
Shrewsbury Theatre Severn 2nd March @ 7.30pm Box Office 01743 281281
Harlow Playhouse 3rd March @ 7.30pm Box Office 01279 431945
Liverpool Empire 5th March @7.30pm Box Office 0844 871 3017
Wakefield Theatre Royal 6th March Box Office 01924 211 311
Grimsby Auditorium 7th March @7.30pm Box Office 0844 871 3016
Manchester Opera House 8th March @ 7.30pm Box Office 0844 871 7660
York Grand Opera House 9th March @ 7.30pm Box Office 0844 847 2322
Sheffield City Hall 10th March Box Office 01142 789 789
Derby Assembly Rooms 12th Mar @ 7.30pm Box Office 01332 255800
Birmingham Alexandra Theatre 13th March Box Office 0844 847 2302
Tunbridge Wells Assembly Hall Theatre 14th March Box Office 01892 530613
Worthing Pavilion 15th March @ 7.30pm Box Office 01903 206 206
Dunstable The Grove 16th March @7.30pm Box Office 01582 602080
Carlisle Sands Centre 17th March @ 7.30pm Box Office 01228 625222
Ipswich, Regent Theatre 19th March Box Office 01473 433100
Woking New Victoria Theatre
20 &21 March @ 7.30pm Box Office 0844 871 7645
Southend Cliffs Pavilion 22nd March @ 8pm Box Office 01702 351135
Basingstoke The Anvil 24th March Box Office 01256 844244
Aylesbury Waterside 25th March Box Office 0844 871 7627
Torquay Princess Theatre 26th March @ 7.30pm Box Office 0844 871 3023
Hayes Beck Theatre 27th March Box Office 020 8561 8371
Malvern Festival Theatre 28th March Box Office 01684 892277
Lowestoft Marina Theatre 29th March @ 7.30pm Box Office 01502 533200
Hastings White Rock 30th March @ 7.30pm Box office 01424 462288
APRIL 2012
Redhill Harlequin 1st April @ 8pm Box Office 01737765547
Darlington Civic 2nd April Box Office 01325 486555
Bridlington Spa 3rd April @ 7.30pm Box Office 01262 678258
New Brighton Floral Pavilion 4th April @ 7.30pm Box Office 0151 666 0000
Rhyl Pavilion 5th April @ 7.30pm Box Office 0870 330 0000
Buxton Opera House 10th April Box Office 0845 127 2190
Bradford St. George's Hall 11th April @ 7.30pm Box Office 01274 432 000
Hull New Theatre 12th April Box Office 01482 300 300
Whitley Bay Playhouse 13th & 14th April @ 7.30pm Box Office 0844 277 2771
Southport, Theatre and Convention Centre 16th April Box Office 01704 5000
Lichfield, Garrick Theatre 17th & 18th April Box Office 01543 412121
Nottingham, Concert Hall 19th April Box Office 0115 989 5555
Yeovil, Octagon Theatre 20th & 21st @ 7.30pm Box office 01935 422884
Bromley, Churchill Theatre 22nd April Box Office 020 8464 7131
Swindon, Wyvern Theatre 24th & 25th April Box Office 01793 524 481
Stevenage Gordon Craig Theatre 26th April @7.45pm Box Office 01438 363200
Brighton, Theatre Royal 27th & 28th April @ 7.30pm Box Office 0844 871 7627
Reading, The Hexagon 30th April Box Office 0118 9606060
May 2012
1st May DATE TBC
Kings Lynn Corn Exchange 2nd May @ 7.30pm Box Office 01553 764864
High Wycombe Swan 3rd May Box Office 01494 512 000
Crawley Hawth Theatre 4th May Box Office 01293 553636
Stoke, Regent Theatre 5th May Box Office 0870 060 6649
Weston Super Mare Playhouse 8th May Box Office 01934 645544
Wellingborough Castle 9th May Box Office 01933 270 007
Croydon, Ashcroft Theatre 10 May Box Office 020 8688 9291
Southsea King's 11 May Box Office 023 9282 8282
Watford, Colosseum 12 May 8pm Box Office 0845 075 3993.
Richmond Theatre 13 May Box Office 0870 060 665
Starring Margi Clarke with Kay Purcell and Laura Checkley
"Ticked all the right boxes. The audience loved it." - Edinburgh Evening News
Hormonal Housewives is an hilarious comedy written by husband and wife team Julie Coombe and John McIsaac and follows the lives of three women as they battle against weight gain, weight loss, mood swings, wine, PMS, men, going to the gym, waxing, stretch marks, men, chocolate, upper-lip hair, chocolate, men, chocolate ... and all the other joys of being a 21st Century girl....did we mention chocolate and men?!
"Coombe has moments of comic genius." - The Scotsman
In the Eighties, Liverpool-born MARGI CLARKE was the lead singer of various punk bands, once supporting Adam And The Ants. After starting as a presenter for Granada, she moved into acting with a role in Channel 4 soap Brookside, before finding recognition in 1985 with a role in cult British film Letter To Brezhnev, widely regarded as one of the most important British films of all time which went on to become a huge international hit.
Her TV acting credits include Tyrone Dobb's mum in Coronation Street, Queenie in Making Out as well as parts in Casualty, Family Affairs and Benidorm. She's also continued to present programmes including the late night ITV show The Good Sex Guide which gained unheard-of audience figures of 13 million for a show that aired at 10.35pm and won the RTS Awards for "Best Female Presenter" Margi was subsequently offered her own daytime show, Swank, which ran for two series. A regular guest on The Word, Margi also appeared in the 2011 series of Celebrity Master Chef..
KAY PURCELL is well known for her role as Gina Conway in the highly successful Tracy Beaker series, Candice Smilie in Waterloo Road and Cynthia Dogget in Emmerdale. She also appeared in Celebrity Fit Club.
LAURA CHECKLEY is one half of the hilarious female double act 'Checkley & Bush' who reached the finals of "The UK Funny Women Awards". Laura runs her own comedy night in Leicester Square, where it is fast becoming one of the best character comedy nights on the circuit.
Hormonal Housewives directed by Hannah Chissick with set and costume design by Phillip Witcomb and lighting design by Ben Cracknell
Hannah Chissick is a highly successful young theatre director. She became the youngest ever recipient of the Channel 4 Theatre Directors bursary going to Derby Playhouse as Assistant and then Associate Director. She then went on to become the youngest Artistic Director in the country running Harrogate Theatre for 3 years.
Tour list 2012
FEBRUARY 2012
New Wimbledon Theatre 22-25 Feb
Eves 7.30pm matinee Saturday 25 Feb 2.30pm Box Office 0844 871 7646
Milton Keynes Theatre 26 Feb @7.30pm Box Office 0844 871 7652
Dartford, Orchard Theatre 28 Feb @7.30pm Box Office 01322 220000
Cardiff New Theatre 29 Feb & 1st March @8pm Box Office 029 2087 8889
MARCH 2012
Shrewsbury Theatre Severn 2nd March @ 7.30pm Box Office 01743 281281
Harlow Playhouse 3rd March @ 7.30pm Box Office 01279 431945
Liverpool Empire 5th March @7.30pm Box Office 0844 871 3017
Wakefield Theatre Royal 6th March Box Office 01924 211 311
Grimsby Auditorium 7th March @7.30pm Box Office 0844 871 3016
Manchester Opera House 8th March @ 7.30pm Box Office 0844 871 7660
York Grand Opera House 9th March @ 7.30pm Box Office 0844 847 2322
Sheffield City Hall 10th March Box Office 01142 789 789
Derby Assembly Rooms 12th Mar @ 7.30pm Box Office 01332 255800
Birmingham Alexandra Theatre 13th March Box Office 0844 847 2302
Tunbridge Wells Assembly Hall Theatre 14th March Box Office 01892 530613
Worthing Pavilion 15th March @ 7.30pm Box Office 01903 206 206
Dunstable The Grove 16th March @7.30pm Box Office 01582 602080
Carlisle Sands Centre 17th March @ 7.30pm Box Office 01228 625222
Ipswich, Regent Theatre 19th March Box Office 01473 433100
Woking New Victoria Theatre
20 &21 March @ 7.30pm Box Office 0844 871 7645
Southend Cliffs Pavilion 22nd March @ 8pm Box Office 01702 351135
Basingstoke The Anvil 24th March Box Office 01256 844244
Aylesbury Waterside 25th March Box Office 0844 871 7627
Torquay Princess Theatre 26th March @ 7.30pm Box Office 0844 871 3023
Hayes Beck Theatre 27th March Box Office 020 8561 8371
Malvern Festival Theatre 28th March Box Office 01684 892277
Lowestoft Marina Theatre 29th March @ 7.30pm Box Office 01502 533200
Hastings White Rock 30th March @ 7.30pm Box office 01424 462288
APRIL 2012
Redhill Harlequin 1st April @ 8pm Box Office 01737765547
Darlington Civic 2nd April Box Office 01325 486555
Bridlington Spa 3rd April @ 7.30pm Box Office 01262 678258
New Brighton Floral Pavilion 4th April @ 7.30pm Box Office 0151 666 0000
Rhyl Pavilion 5th April @ 7.30pm Box Office 0870 330 0000
Buxton Opera House 10th April Box Office 0845 127 2190
Bradford St. George's Hall 11th April @ 7.30pm Box Office 01274 432 000
Hull New Theatre 12th April Box Office 01482 300 300
Whitley Bay Playhouse 13th & 14th April @ 7.30pm Box Office 0844 277 2771
Southport, Theatre and Convention Centre 16th April Box Office 01704 5000
Lichfield, Garrick Theatre 17th & 18th April Box Office 01543 412121
Nottingham, Concert Hall 19th April Box Office 0115 989 5555
Yeovil, Octagon Theatre 20th & 21st @ 7.30pm Box office 01935 422884
Bromley, Churchill Theatre 22nd April Box Office 020 8464 7131
Swindon, Wyvern Theatre 24th & 25th April Box Office 01793 524 481
Stevenage Gordon Craig Theatre 26th April @7.45pm Box Office 01438 363200
Brighton, Theatre Royal 27th & 28th April @ 7.30pm Box Office 0844 871 7627
Reading, The Hexagon 30th April Box Office 0118 9606060
May 2012
1st May DATE TBC
Kings Lynn Corn Exchange 2nd May @ 7.30pm Box Office 01553 764864
High Wycombe Swan 3rd May Box Office 01494 512 000
Crawley Hawth Theatre 4th May Box Office 01293 553636
Stoke, Regent Theatre 5th May Box Office 0870 060 6649
Weston Super Mare Playhouse 8th May Box Office 01934 645544
Wellingborough Castle 9th May Box Office 01933 270 007
Croydon, Ashcroft Theatre 10 May Box Office 020 8688 9291
Southsea King's 11 May Box Office 023 9282 8282
Watford, Colosseum 12 May 8pm Box Office 0845 075 3993.
Richmond Theatre 13 May Box Office 0870 060 665
Sony Music To Release 'We Bought A Zoo' Soundtrack March 19th
Sony Music is proud to announce the release of the original motion picture soundtrack for We Bought A Zoo with music by Sigur Rós front man and leading light, Jon Thor Birgisson, aka Jónsi on March 19th, 2012. Composed at the personal request of We Bought A Zoo director - and huge Sigur Rós aficionado - Cameron Crowe, for the movie that will be in cinemas everywhere March 16th from Twentieth Century Fox. It includes original music composed by Jónsi which plays an integral part to the films heartfelt emotional landscape.
The soundtrack to We Bought A Zoo was written and recorded in short order, over four months last summer/autumn at the famous Village Studios in Los Angeles and at the singer's home studio in his native Iceland. It comprises more than half-an-hour of brand new music from Jónsi, including two full songs and nine achingly beautiful themes, plus reimagining's of songs from Jónsi's acclaimed solo album, 'Go', as well as what might well be regarded as Sigur Rós' most memorable tune, in 'Hoppipolla'. (See track list below.)
"[Jónsi] arrived from Iceland with a toy sampler keyboard and a headful of ideas," says Cameron. "Within a week, [he] had composed a series of themes that would reflect everything we'd hoped for. In his music were all the highs and lows and passionate in-betweens of the film itself. The instinct that made the movie come full circle."
Cameron's relationship with Jónsi and Sigur Rós goes back almost as far as the band's position in the international spotlight, to 2001 and the director's much-noticed inclusion of three of the band's songs in the hugely successful Tom Cruise film 'Vanilla Sky'. Cameron has long heralded the band and their filmwork, to the extent that the secret project name for We Bought A Zoo was, in fact, 'Heima' in honor of the band's 2007 tour film.
"Early on it was obvious that [Sigur Rós'] music would have a profound effect on the making of We Bought A Zoo," says Cameron. "In preparation for making the movie, we gave all the actors and crew members a copy of Sigur Rós' transcendent documentary, 'Heima'."
Even ahead of getting Jónsi on board as composer, We Bought A Zoo was broadly 'temped' with Jónsi' solo material. It's an open secret that Cameron would encourage Matt Damon, Scarlett Johansson and the other actors on the movie to listen to specific songs by the band to create the right energy for a scene.
"The actors listened to the music during their takes; it quickly became part of the film's DNA," says the director.
Perhaps even more potent is the fact that the closing scene of We Bought A Zoo is a cinematic homage to a specific moment in 'Heima' when gleeful crowds stream in a Sigur Rós show in the far North of Iceland or, in this case, the newly opened zoo.
Among the original score and new songs is 'Gathering Stories', a song co-written by Jónsi and Cameron, in something of a collaborative first for the notoriously private Icelander. Orchestral arrangements on the score have been handled by previous Jónsi working partner, and 'Reader' soundtrack composer, Nico Muhly, who brings his quixotic genius to the string and brass sections.
We Bought A Zoo Soundtrack
Why Not
AEvin Endar - Jónsi *new track
Boy Lilikoi - Jónsi
Sun
Brambles
Sinking Friendships - Jónsi
We Bought A Zoo
Hoppipolla - Sigur Rós
Snaerisendar
Sink
Go Do - Jónsi
Whole Made of Pieces
Humming
First Day
Gathering Stories - Jónsi *new track
WE BOUGHT A ZOO, in cinemas everywhere March 16th from Twentieth Century Fox, is a funny, inspiring and true story about the magical power of family to persevere in the face of extraordinary challenges. This is Crowe's first motion picture for all audiences, and stars Matt Damon, Scarlett Johansson and Thomas Haden Church.
Damon portrays a single dad who, looking to give his family a much-needed fresh start, moves to a home situated in the middle of a zoo, which he and his two children will attempt to bring back to its once glorious state. The film weaves together warmth, laughter and a spirit of optimism.
For more on the film, visit www.weboughtazoo.com
The soundtrack to We Bought A Zoo was written and recorded in short order, over four months last summer/autumn at the famous Village Studios in Los Angeles and at the singer's home studio in his native Iceland. It comprises more than half-an-hour of brand new music from Jónsi, including two full songs and nine achingly beautiful themes, plus reimagining's of songs from Jónsi's acclaimed solo album, 'Go', as well as what might well be regarded as Sigur Rós' most memorable tune, in 'Hoppipolla'. (See track list below.)
"[Jónsi] arrived from Iceland with a toy sampler keyboard and a headful of ideas," says Cameron. "Within a week, [he] had composed a series of themes that would reflect everything we'd hoped for. In his music were all the highs and lows and passionate in-betweens of the film itself. The instinct that made the movie come full circle."
Cameron's relationship with Jónsi and Sigur Rós goes back almost as far as the band's position in the international spotlight, to 2001 and the director's much-noticed inclusion of three of the band's songs in the hugely successful Tom Cruise film 'Vanilla Sky'. Cameron has long heralded the band and their filmwork, to the extent that the secret project name for We Bought A Zoo was, in fact, 'Heima' in honor of the band's 2007 tour film.
"Early on it was obvious that [Sigur Rós'] music would have a profound effect on the making of We Bought A Zoo," says Cameron. "In preparation for making the movie, we gave all the actors and crew members a copy of Sigur Rós' transcendent documentary, 'Heima'."
Even ahead of getting Jónsi on board as composer, We Bought A Zoo was broadly 'temped' with Jónsi' solo material. It's an open secret that Cameron would encourage Matt Damon, Scarlett Johansson and the other actors on the movie to listen to specific songs by the band to create the right energy for a scene.
"The actors listened to the music during their takes; it quickly became part of the film's DNA," says the director.
Perhaps even more potent is the fact that the closing scene of We Bought A Zoo is a cinematic homage to a specific moment in 'Heima' when gleeful crowds stream in a Sigur Rós show in the far North of Iceland or, in this case, the newly opened zoo.
Among the original score and new songs is 'Gathering Stories', a song co-written by Jónsi and Cameron, in something of a collaborative first for the notoriously private Icelander. Orchestral arrangements on the score have been handled by previous Jónsi working partner, and 'Reader' soundtrack composer, Nico Muhly, who brings his quixotic genius to the string and brass sections.
We Bought A Zoo Soundtrack
Why Not
AEvin Endar - Jónsi *new track
Boy Lilikoi - Jónsi
Sun
Brambles
Sinking Friendships - Jónsi
We Bought A Zoo
Hoppipolla - Sigur Rós
Snaerisendar
Sink
Go Do - Jónsi
Whole Made of Pieces
Humming
First Day
Gathering Stories - Jónsi *new track
WE BOUGHT A ZOO, in cinemas everywhere March 16th from Twentieth Century Fox, is a funny, inspiring and true story about the magical power of family to persevere in the face of extraordinary challenges. This is Crowe's first motion picture for all audiences, and stars Matt Damon, Scarlett Johansson and Thomas Haden Church.
Damon portrays a single dad who, looking to give his family a much-needed fresh start, moves to a home situated in the middle of a zoo, which he and his two children will attempt to bring back to its once glorious state. The film weaves together warmth, laughter and a spirit of optimism.
For more on the film, visit www.weboughtazoo.com
Sunday 15 January 2012
The skill of the Irish! Findmypast.ie unearths Disney's Irish links
The cartoonist who brought some of the world's most famous characters, including Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck, to life, has long been rumoured to have ancestry traceable back to Kilkenny in the south-east of Ireland. Now Dublin based website findmypast.ie has uncovered documents clearly showing the family's links to the small parish of Rathbeagh.
Walt Disney's great-grandfather Arundel Elias Disney was born in Kilkenny c.1801. In 1832 Arundel Elias married Maria Swan who gave birth to their son Kepple Disney, Walt Disney's grandfather, on the 2nd of November of the same year. Arundel and Maria would go on to have 16 children, including Kepple.
In 1834 Arundel and his family reached America and eventually settled in southwestern Ontario, Canada. Elias Disney, Walt's father, was born to Kepple and his wife Mary Richardson in 1859.
The documents uncovered by findmypast.ie clearly show Kepple's rental of 33 acres of land in the parish of Rathbeagh, with further documents showing the Disney family's sale of lands in Clone, Co.Kilkenny, possibly before their departure to America.
Cliona Weldon, General Manager of findmypast.ie, said: "People can be forgiven for not readily identifying the cartoonist's roots as his surname doesn't have a very Irish ring to it. Disney is derived from the Normandy French name D'Isigny and it is believed the family is descended from Norman's who came to Ireland in 1691. So you see, Disney's Irish ancestry was not a Mickey Mouse story after all. It's amazing what you can find out about your own family history when you delve into the records."
FACTFILE:
Findmypast.ie is the world's most comprehensive Irish family history website, providing easy-to-search, online access to some of the most significant Irish records that have ever been made available, including military records and records detailing the 1901 census Ireland. The site also offers a free family tree builder which stores all the names in a user's tree securely in one place, allowing access from any computer at any time.This new site is a joint venture between two experts in the field: findmypast.co.uk, one of the leading family history websites and part of the brightsolid family, while Eneclann is an award-winning Trinity College Campus Company specialising in genealogical and historical research and the publication of historical records.
Based in Dublin, findmypast.ie has a dedicated team committed to providing the best experience possible when researching Irish family history.
New Year New Charity Role For Lorraine Pascale
Lorraine first came into contact with Rays of Sunshine last year, when she fulfilled a wish for a young girl living with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia. Benita's ambition is to be a chef when she grows up and her greatest wish was to cook with the glamorous TV chef. Lorraine took time out to visit the brave nine year old at her home in London, where they spent the afternoon cooking Benita's favourite dishes.
Jane Sharpe, CEO of Rays of Sunshine said: "We are absolutely thrilled that Lorraine has agreed to become our newest ambassador. As well as being a huge talent, Lorraine is a down to earth mum, with a natural compassion. Her support will help us to brighten up the lives of some of the UK's most deserving children."
Speaking about her new role Lorraine said: "I am delighted to take on the role of ambassador for Rays of Sunshine. Spending time with Benita and her family last year gave me firsthand experience of the difference a wish can make. I look forward to helping out whenever I can."
Lorraine's second book Home Cooking Made Easy was released September 2011 accompanied by another BBC Series of the same name. Once again, Lorraine brought her informed and practical advice to the fore, with a light touch that belies her rigorous professional training.
Rays of Sunshine hopes to grant 650 wishes in 2012. The charity granted its first wish in 2004 and its 2000th last year. Wishes can be as unique as the children themselves and whether a child wants to meet a favourite celebrity, be a car park attendant for the day, swim with dolphins or own a laptop computer, the charity works hard to make that wish come true. Rays of Sunshine also organises hospital ward wishes and events for large groups of seriously ill children.
Further details can be found at: www.raysofsunshine.org.uk.
Dickens In London
As part of Dickens 2012, Film London, BBC Radio 4 and BBC Radio Drama have come together to commission five films and five radio plays - Dickens In London - to be broadcast simultaneously during the week of 6-10 February in the Woman's Hour Drama strand on Radio 4 (10.45am), online and via Red Button. The films, commissioned by Film London Artists' Moving Image Network (FLAMIN) and produced by Dan Films with funding from Arts Council England, will also premiere at BFI Southbank on Tuesday 7 February at a special event celebrating the actual anniversary of Dickens's birth.
Dickens In London is an interactive, cross-platform project which brings together artist film-maker Chris Newby and writer Michael Eaton to form a biographical portrait of Dickens's life via film and the spoken word.
Based on Dickens's journalistic essays - 'A Not Over-Particularly-Taken-Care-Of-Boy'; 'Boz': 'the Sparkler of Albion'; 'The Uncommercial Traveller'; and 'The Inimitable' - Dickens In London comprises five new films by Chris Newby which use animation, puppetry and contemporary footage to visualise five original radio plays written by Michael Eaton. Each radio play forms the soundtrack for the five films and feature the voices of Samuel Barnett, Alex Jennings and Antony Sher, who each take their turn to play Dickens, and original music is composed by Neil Brand.
This collaboration constituted a first time experience for both Eaton and Newby: "I had no idea how Chris Newby would deal with the apparently insurmountable problem of visualising and complementing already recorded dramas" says Michael Eaton. "The result is astonishing. Not only are his five films visually exceptional, original and imaginative, but the style, the montage and the imagery are, to me, inherently Dickensian. This has been a unique experiment in broadcasting to which I have been proud to contribute".
Chris Newby continues, "My aim was not simply to recreate what someone might imagine. It was to recreate an alternative theatrical presentation. Also, a film sound-track is a submerged thing rather than up-front like the conventions of a radio play. I decided to have as much fun with the radio conventions as possible. At the back of my mind was a scrap book that Hans Christian Anderson made, where he constructed collages from found illustrations. The films would represent a paper world, the puppets heads would be constructed from Dickens books. Animated characters would be torn from the very fabric of London. Not forgetting the odd dash of pepper...or two."
Says Jeremy Mortimer, Executive Producer, BBC Radio Drama, "writer Michael Eaton was approached to write a series of short radio plays which - taken as a whole - provides a biographical portrait of Dickens and his London life. Chris Newby, a film-maker who knows and loves Dickens's work, was given the task of building a 70 minute film around the radio plays, which we recorded early in 2011.
We haven't yet decided where to go next with this approach to visualising radio drama, but if Chris Newby's films are anything to go by I think that there are many opportunities for creating original and innovative film work that celebrates both the sound and the visual mediums."
Maggie Ellis, Head of Production and Talent Development, Film London comments "Dickens in London is a striking and wonderful collaboration between film and radio which can be enjoyed across a range of platforms. It successfully achieves the core aim of the Film London Artists' Moving Image Network (FLAMIN), which is to support London artist film-makers by commissioning interesting new artworks and using inventive ways to bring this important work to new and wider audiences."
Dickens in London will be broadcast on Monday 6-10 February at 10.45am on BBC Radio 4 - and watch the film online at www.bbc.co.uk/radio4 or push the Red Button. Catch the omnibus on Saturday 11th February at 12noon on BBC Radio 4 Extra.
Dickens In London is an interactive, cross-platform project which brings together artist film-maker Chris Newby and writer Michael Eaton to form a biographical portrait of Dickens's life via film and the spoken word.
Based on Dickens's journalistic essays - 'A Not Over-Particularly-Taken-Care-Of-Boy'; 'Boz': 'the Sparkler of Albion'; 'The Uncommercial Traveller'; and 'The Inimitable' - Dickens In London comprises five new films by Chris Newby which use animation, puppetry and contemporary footage to visualise five original radio plays written by Michael Eaton. Each radio play forms the soundtrack for the five films and feature the voices of Samuel Barnett, Alex Jennings and Antony Sher, who each take their turn to play Dickens, and original music is composed by Neil Brand.
This collaboration constituted a first time experience for both Eaton and Newby: "I had no idea how Chris Newby would deal with the apparently insurmountable problem of visualising and complementing already recorded dramas" says Michael Eaton. "The result is astonishing. Not only are his five films visually exceptional, original and imaginative, but the style, the montage and the imagery are, to me, inherently Dickensian. This has been a unique experiment in broadcasting to which I have been proud to contribute".
Chris Newby continues, "My aim was not simply to recreate what someone might imagine. It was to recreate an alternative theatrical presentation. Also, a film sound-track is a submerged thing rather than up-front like the conventions of a radio play. I decided to have as much fun with the radio conventions as possible. At the back of my mind was a scrap book that Hans Christian Anderson made, where he constructed collages from found illustrations. The films would represent a paper world, the puppets heads would be constructed from Dickens books. Animated characters would be torn from the very fabric of London. Not forgetting the odd dash of pepper...or two."
Says Jeremy Mortimer, Executive Producer, BBC Radio Drama, "writer Michael Eaton was approached to write a series of short radio plays which - taken as a whole - provides a biographical portrait of Dickens and his London life. Chris Newby, a film-maker who knows and loves Dickens's work, was given the task of building a 70 minute film around the radio plays, which we recorded early in 2011.
We haven't yet decided where to go next with this approach to visualising radio drama, but if Chris Newby's films are anything to go by I think that there are many opportunities for creating original and innovative film work that celebrates both the sound and the visual mediums."
Maggie Ellis, Head of Production and Talent Development, Film London comments "Dickens in London is a striking and wonderful collaboration between film and radio which can be enjoyed across a range of platforms. It successfully achieves the core aim of the Film London Artists' Moving Image Network (FLAMIN), which is to support London artist film-makers by commissioning interesting new artworks and using inventive ways to bring this important work to new and wider audiences."
Dickens in London will be broadcast on Monday 6-10 February at 10.45am on BBC Radio 4 - and watch the film online at www.bbc.co.uk/radio4 or push the Red Button. Catch the omnibus on Saturday 11th February at 12noon on BBC Radio 4 Extra.
Charmian Biggs story to be made into TV drama
The story of the life of Charmian Biggs, ex-wife of Ronald Biggs, is to be told in a five part ITV drama produced by ITV Studios.
Written by award-winning writer and Executive Producer Jeff Pope (The Murder of Stephen Lawrence, See No Evil: The Moors Murders, Appropriate Adult as executive producer), 'Mrs Biggs', will chronicle Charmian's life from the fateful moment that, as a teenager on a train, she first met and fell in love with the flirtatious and worldly Biggs.
It will recount the story of their struggle to stay together in the face of fierce opposition from Charmian's family - aghast at Biggs' criminal record - and their idyllic life as the parents of young children before money worries forced Biggs to ask for a loan from an old friend to pay the deposit on a house they wanted to buy for their growing family. That friend was Bruce Reynolds, at that moment planning the most famous crimes in British history - the Great Train Robbery of August 1963.
The consequences of the robbery were to devastate Charmian's life. Blissfully ignorant of what her husband was up to - he told her he was on a tree felling job in Wiltshire whilst away on the robbery - she nonetheless went on the run with her husband and children after he'd dramatically skipped over the wall of Wandsworth prison.
Shunned by her parents and desperate to keep her own family together, she secretly emigrated with her sons to Australia on false passports. Biggs had already quietly slipped out there and she now managed to help her husband, one of the world's most wanted men, to avoid capture for more than four years.
But she was never to find any real peace and when - at her insistence - Biggs skipped the country for Rio, only hours before Melbourne Police discovered where they were living, Charmian and her three boys were on their own, facing an uncertain future in a foreign country.
Tragedy was to follow with the death in a car accident of her eldest son Nicky and she threw herself into building a life for her other two sons, studying for a degree and taking on a job as she pleaded to be allowed to stay in Australia. Then, when Biggs was discovered by Scotland Yard living under an assumed name in Rio, she flew out for an emotional reunion.
Biggs broke the news to her that that he had a chance of evading extradition as the father of an unborn child by a local night club dancer, Raimunda Nascimento De Castro - and then asked her for a divorce. He told his loyal wife that it would give him a better chance of persuading the Brazilian authorities that he intended to bring up his baby with Raimunda - and therefore be allowed to stay. Although utterly heartbroken, Charmian agreed.
Set on location in London, Surrey, Buckinghamshire, Paris, Adelaide, Melbourne and Rio de Janeiro, 'Mrs Biggs' is a co-production with Melbourne based December Media for Seven Network in Australia.
Charmian, who was allowed to remain in Australia, has acted as consultant to the production. She said: "If my story were to be dramatized I wanted it to be done as accurately as possible. It seemed to me this was an opportunity to convey the rollercoaster of emotions involved, rather than just the bare facts.'
Jeff Pope has been developing the drama for four years.
He said: "Charmian's is one of the great untold stories of the 20th Century, set against the backdrop of one of the greatest crimes of all times. But at the heart of it is a simple love story between Charmian and Ron."
Jeff also commented on the fact the drama will be a co-production:
"The story is, on one level, about a young family coming to Australia in the '60s, when it was a land of opportunity and discovery. We always knew we were going to need an Australian partner and Seven Network were committed and supportive right from the word go. We are looking forward to working with Seven on this great adventure."
'Mrs Biggs' will be produced by Kwadjo Dajan (Appropriate Adult as co-producer) and directed by Paul Whittington (Vera, DCI Banks).
'Mrs Biggs' has been commissioned for ITV by Director of Drama Commissioning, Laura Mackie and Controller of Drama Commissioning Sally Haynes.
"'Mrs Biggs' is the heartbreaking story of Charmian's enduring love for Ron Biggs. It's a very moving and emotional narrative, which Jeff has written beautifully," said Laura. "We are delighted to have commissioned five episodes from ITV Studios."
Filming will begin in Manchester in February 2012 before moving to Australia, and will continue for eleven weeks. Casting details will be made known prior to commencement of production.
Written by award-winning writer and Executive Producer Jeff Pope (The Murder of Stephen Lawrence, See No Evil: The Moors Murders, Appropriate Adult as executive producer), 'Mrs Biggs', will chronicle Charmian's life from the fateful moment that, as a teenager on a train, she first met and fell in love with the flirtatious and worldly Biggs.
It will recount the story of their struggle to stay together in the face of fierce opposition from Charmian's family - aghast at Biggs' criminal record - and their idyllic life as the parents of young children before money worries forced Biggs to ask for a loan from an old friend to pay the deposit on a house they wanted to buy for their growing family. That friend was Bruce Reynolds, at that moment planning the most famous crimes in British history - the Great Train Robbery of August 1963.
The consequences of the robbery were to devastate Charmian's life. Blissfully ignorant of what her husband was up to - he told her he was on a tree felling job in Wiltshire whilst away on the robbery - she nonetheless went on the run with her husband and children after he'd dramatically skipped over the wall of Wandsworth prison.
Shunned by her parents and desperate to keep her own family together, she secretly emigrated with her sons to Australia on false passports. Biggs had already quietly slipped out there and she now managed to help her husband, one of the world's most wanted men, to avoid capture for more than four years.
But she was never to find any real peace and when - at her insistence - Biggs skipped the country for Rio, only hours before Melbourne Police discovered where they were living, Charmian and her three boys were on their own, facing an uncertain future in a foreign country.
Tragedy was to follow with the death in a car accident of her eldest son Nicky and she threw herself into building a life for her other two sons, studying for a degree and taking on a job as she pleaded to be allowed to stay in Australia. Then, when Biggs was discovered by Scotland Yard living under an assumed name in Rio, she flew out for an emotional reunion.
Biggs broke the news to her that that he had a chance of evading extradition as the father of an unborn child by a local night club dancer, Raimunda Nascimento De Castro - and then asked her for a divorce. He told his loyal wife that it would give him a better chance of persuading the Brazilian authorities that he intended to bring up his baby with Raimunda - and therefore be allowed to stay. Although utterly heartbroken, Charmian agreed.
Set on location in London, Surrey, Buckinghamshire, Paris, Adelaide, Melbourne and Rio de Janeiro, 'Mrs Biggs' is a co-production with Melbourne based December Media for Seven Network in Australia.
Charmian, who was allowed to remain in Australia, has acted as consultant to the production. She said: "If my story were to be dramatized I wanted it to be done as accurately as possible. It seemed to me this was an opportunity to convey the rollercoaster of emotions involved, rather than just the bare facts.'
Jeff Pope has been developing the drama for four years.
He said: "Charmian's is one of the great untold stories of the 20th Century, set against the backdrop of one of the greatest crimes of all times. But at the heart of it is a simple love story between Charmian and Ron."
Jeff also commented on the fact the drama will be a co-production:
"The story is, on one level, about a young family coming to Australia in the '60s, when it was a land of opportunity and discovery. We always knew we were going to need an Australian partner and Seven Network were committed and supportive right from the word go. We are looking forward to working with Seven on this great adventure."
'Mrs Biggs' will be produced by Kwadjo Dajan (Appropriate Adult as co-producer) and directed by Paul Whittington (Vera, DCI Banks).
'Mrs Biggs' has been commissioned for ITV by Director of Drama Commissioning, Laura Mackie and Controller of Drama Commissioning Sally Haynes.
"'Mrs Biggs' is the heartbreaking story of Charmian's enduring love for Ron Biggs. It's a very moving and emotional narrative, which Jeff has written beautifully," said Laura. "We are delighted to have commissioned five episodes from ITV Studios."
Filming will begin in Manchester in February 2012 before moving to Australia, and will continue for eleven weeks. Casting details will be made known prior to commencement of production.
Aberdeen Gets "Psyched" For Return Visit From Sally Morgan
With millions of fans, three best selling books, a nationwide box office busting tour to deliver and another TV series on the way...there truly is no stopping her!
Sally's live shows have been selling out all around the country following the success of her Sky LIVING TV series Psychic Sally: On The Road, which followed Sally's gruelling tour schedule showcasing her phenomenal ability to speak with people beyond the grave. Due to popular demand, Sally will be bringing her incredible gift back to Aberdeen when she plays the Music Hall on Sunday 19th February 2012!
Thousands of people have witnessed Sally's live show; leaving audiences both astounded and enlightened, On some of the major ticketing websites she has even outsold popular artists such as JLS, Paul McCartney and Rihanna.
Sally was very young when she had her first psychic experience. The extraordinary gift Sally discovered has, over the years, enabled her to read people's past, present and glimpse into their future using her incredible ability to communicate with the spiritual world. Sally's genuine, warm-hearted and fun-loving personality on and off the stage has attracted new audiences to both the practice of medium-ship and the spirit world.
As a highly respected medium, Sally has become a close and trusted friend of top show-business celebrities and Royalty alike, famously, reading for the likes of George Michael, Uma Therman, Katie Price and most notably the late Princess Diana.
More recently has given personal readings on her hit series Psychic Sally: On The Road to even more eager celebrities including Alesha Dixon, Step's member Ian 'H' Watkins, singer Sinitta, Celebrity Big Brother's Andrew Stone and The Only Way Is Essex stars Mark Wright and Lauren Goodger.
Sally's live shows are completely unpredictable and the emotional messages come thick and fast. Audience members are sure to be wowed by her special gift. This is Sally on her own without a camera crew or celebrity guests. She will be using her gift and feeling her way through the messages she is receiving from spirit world with no TV editing, no flashy soundtrack and no gimmicks. For people who have never been to a live psychic performance before, they are in for a dramatic and hopefully life-affirming evening. You will be closer to the spirit realm than you could ever be in front of a TV set!
Sally Morgan, Britain's best-loved psychic, truly has the world - and the next world at her feet. Everyone wants to share her remarkable gift.
To book tickets for Sally's show at Music Hall on Sunday 19th February. Phone 01224 641122 or visit www.sallymorgan.tv for more information.
Sally's live shows have been selling out all around the country following the success of her Sky LIVING TV series Psychic Sally: On The Road, which followed Sally's gruelling tour schedule showcasing her phenomenal ability to speak with people beyond the grave. Due to popular demand, Sally will be bringing her incredible gift back to Aberdeen when she plays the Music Hall on Sunday 19th February 2012!
Thousands of people have witnessed Sally's live show; leaving audiences both astounded and enlightened, On some of the major ticketing websites she has even outsold popular artists such as JLS, Paul McCartney and Rihanna.
Sally was very young when she had her first psychic experience. The extraordinary gift Sally discovered has, over the years, enabled her to read people's past, present and glimpse into their future using her incredible ability to communicate with the spiritual world. Sally's genuine, warm-hearted and fun-loving personality on and off the stage has attracted new audiences to both the practice of medium-ship and the spirit world.
As a highly respected medium, Sally has become a close and trusted friend of top show-business celebrities and Royalty alike, famously, reading for the likes of George Michael, Uma Therman, Katie Price and most notably the late Princess Diana.
More recently has given personal readings on her hit series Psychic Sally: On The Road to even more eager celebrities including Alesha Dixon, Step's member Ian 'H' Watkins, singer Sinitta, Celebrity Big Brother's Andrew Stone and The Only Way Is Essex stars Mark Wright and Lauren Goodger.
Sally's live shows are completely unpredictable and the emotional messages come thick and fast. Audience members are sure to be wowed by her special gift. This is Sally on her own without a camera crew or celebrity guests. She will be using her gift and feeling her way through the messages she is receiving from spirit world with no TV editing, no flashy soundtrack and no gimmicks. For people who have never been to a live psychic performance before, they are in for a dramatic and hopefully life-affirming evening. You will be closer to the spirit realm than you could ever be in front of a TV set!
Sally Morgan, Britain's best-loved psychic, truly has the world - and the next world at her feet. Everyone wants to share her remarkable gift.
To book tickets for Sally's show at Music Hall on Sunday 19th February. Phone 01224 641122 or visit www.sallymorgan.tv for more information.
Sleeping Dogs
Drowning Fish Productions and The Impulse Company presents:Sleeping Dogs
By Brenda Gottsche
BARONS COURT THEATRE, Tuesday 31st January – Saturday 18th February 2012
PRESS PERFORMANCE: Friday 3rd February
‘Brenda Gottsche’s bright comedy drama... a gently provocative, highly enjoyable evening.’
Time Out (on The Fulham Jesus)
Doctor Roz is Britain’s fastest-rising celebrity shrink. Her radio show has ratings through the roof and her self-help books fly off the shelves. She’s got a great marriage to Leo, who has just written a best-selling crime novel, and a teenage son whose idea of rebellion is to find Jesus.
All seems well until Leo’s past begins to catch up to him, and, faced with blackmail from an old Australian acquaintance, he has to decide whether the truth is really the best policy or if he should just let sleeping dogs lie. Meanwhile, Roz’s carefully-crafted life begins to fall apart, first at home, then publicly on her radio show.
Sleeping Dogs is a sometimes funny, often moving play that asks the crucial question, ‘how much do we really know of one another?’
Brenda Gottsche, the playwright, divides her time between London and Sydney. Her first play, The Fulham Jesus, debuted at Barons Court in 2003 and has been performed in the USA and in Australia. Hot Property played at the Old Red Lion in 2005, andThe Max Factor at Barons Court in 2007. Her production company is Drowning Fish Productions.
Co-producing is The Impulse Company, founded by Scott Williams to celebrate the work of actors, writers, and directors. Originally from California, Williams has directed the world over, including Measure for Measure at the Colorado Shakespeare Festival, Ancient History at Hong Kong’s Caught in the Act, and Five O’Clock Angel starring Nichola McAuliffe, which played throughout the UK for over six months. The Impulse Company is expanding its reach with regular work in Paris, Sydney, New York, and Hong Kong.
The cast includes Barbara Hatwell (Anthea Dixon in Brookside) and Gregory Cox (Arcadia, National Theatre)
www.drowningfishproductions.com
Running Time: Approx 2 hours
Company Info
Written by: Brenda Gottsche
Directed by: Scott Williams and Dominique Gerrard
Design by: Philip Lindley
Lighting Design by: Luke Girling
Costumes by: Rachael Smith
Cast:
Leo Gregory Cox Alex Joel Dyer Roz Barbara Hatwell
Andy Andrew William Robb Anna Fiona Watson
Listings information:
Venue: Barons Court Theatre
Address: The Curtain’s Up, 28a Comeragh Road, London W14 9HR
Dates: Tuesday 31st January – Saturday 18th February
Price: £12 (£10 concs.)
Box Office: 020 8932 4747
Transport: Barons Court/West Kensington
Times: Tues-Sat 7.30pm, Sat 2.30pm, Sun 6.30pm
By Brenda Gottsche
BARONS COURT THEATRE, Tuesday 31st January – Saturday 18th February 2012
PRESS PERFORMANCE: Friday 3rd February
‘Brenda Gottsche’s bright comedy drama... a gently provocative, highly enjoyable evening.’
Time Out (on The Fulham Jesus)
Doctor Roz is Britain’s fastest-rising celebrity shrink. Her radio show has ratings through the roof and her self-help books fly off the shelves. She’s got a great marriage to Leo, who has just written a best-selling crime novel, and a teenage son whose idea of rebellion is to find Jesus.
All seems well until Leo’s past begins to catch up to him, and, faced with blackmail from an old Australian acquaintance, he has to decide whether the truth is really the best policy or if he should just let sleeping dogs lie. Meanwhile, Roz’s carefully-crafted life begins to fall apart, first at home, then publicly on her radio show.
Sleeping Dogs is a sometimes funny, often moving play that asks the crucial question, ‘how much do we really know of one another?’
Brenda Gottsche, the playwright, divides her time between London and Sydney. Her first play, The Fulham Jesus, debuted at Barons Court in 2003 and has been performed in the USA and in Australia. Hot Property played at the Old Red Lion in 2005, andThe Max Factor at Barons Court in 2007. Her production company is Drowning Fish Productions.
Co-producing is The Impulse Company, founded by Scott Williams to celebrate the work of actors, writers, and directors. Originally from California, Williams has directed the world over, including Measure for Measure at the Colorado Shakespeare Festival, Ancient History at Hong Kong’s Caught in the Act, and Five O’Clock Angel starring Nichola McAuliffe, which played throughout the UK for over six months. The Impulse Company is expanding its reach with regular work in Paris, Sydney, New York, and Hong Kong.
The cast includes Barbara Hatwell (Anthea Dixon in Brookside) and Gregory Cox (Arcadia, National Theatre)
www.drowningfishproductions.com
Running Time: Approx 2 hours
Company Info
Written by: Brenda Gottsche
Directed by: Scott Williams and Dominique Gerrard
Design by: Philip Lindley
Lighting Design by: Luke Girling
Costumes by: Rachael Smith
Cast:
Leo Gregory Cox Alex Joel Dyer Roz Barbara Hatwell
Andy Andrew William Robb Anna Fiona Watson
Listings information:
Venue: Barons Court Theatre
Address: The Curtain’s Up, 28a Comeragh Road, London W14 9HR
Dates: Tuesday 31st January – Saturday 18th February
Price: £12 (£10 concs.)
Box Office: 020 8932 4747
Transport: Barons Court/West Kensington
Times: Tues-Sat 7.30pm, Sat 2.30pm, Sun 6.30pm
Sunday 8 January 2012
That's Education: Experience the Plague in a New Award-Winning Educa...
That's Education: Experience the Plague in a New Award-Winning Educa...: A year ago Serious Games Interactive released the first episode in the Playing History educational game series, “Playing History: The Plague...
Drummer, Mike Miller, Overcomes Personal Challenges of Hearing Loss and Tourette Syndrome with Music
Chosen by Los Cabos Drumsticks for the Cover of Backbeat
Mike Miller started out in life with some personal challenges that might have held the average kid back from his dreams. In his case, the desire to be a professional musician was much stronger than the obstacle of a 40% hearing loss discovered at birth, after he was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome at just 5 years of age.
Miller persevered and emerged from his treatments with what some may feel is an unfair advantage with his near superhuman hearing. His story and talents gained recognition from the team at Los Cabos Drumsticks in New Brunswick, Canada who signed Miller as an endorsing artist. It was this month that he was selected to appear on the cover of the their magazine, Backbeat.
Mike “The Moment” Miller was hooked on performing live from just 10 years of age, but he attended shows consistently with his family and friends while growing up in The San Francisco Bay Area. Although it was never easy, and after more than a half-dozen surgeries, Miller’s natural drive, abilities, religious faith, and his family’s encouragement put him on the road to success that evolved into his attending the prestigious Berklee College of Music.
“I never wanted to give up so I went to where the music was happening. I lived everywhere from L.A. to New York and back to San Francisco to do it. I was lucky enough to pick up tours with some great bands, too.” Touring with Interference, Everything Taken, Pammie Lowe, Take Down Tomorrow, Overturn, and as a session drummer, Miller’s work ethic keeps him busy.
“It’s my focus and my passion to perform,” reports Miller, now 29 and with endorsement deals from Los Cabos Drumsticks, Soultone Cymbals, and Future Sonics Ear Monitors. "I really appreciate this opportunity to do something bigger with the team at Los Cabos." Sound quality is actually more important to him than most people as a musician who regained his lost hearing. His choices for gear are mainly specific to their audio signature and his Rocket Shells Carbon Fiber drum kit with specially chosen Evans Drumheads help him deliver his own sound.
One thing beyond his abilities as a drummer, but that contributes to it, may surprise people in that, today, his hearing is actually better than most drummers in that his range is broader following his medical treatments. His hearing also benefits from his dedication to hearing protection and proper monitoring methods. For Miller, his extended hearing allows him to be very particular in choosing the tonal properties of all of his products for the stage and recording studio. With all that said, his skills as a drummer are remarkable – obstacles or not – and his signature sound makes him a great representative of any brand or band he chooses
Mike Miller started out in life with some personal challenges that might have held the average kid back from his dreams. In his case, the desire to be a professional musician was much stronger than the obstacle of a 40% hearing loss discovered at birth, after he was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome at just 5 years of age.
Miller persevered and emerged from his treatments with what some may feel is an unfair advantage with his near superhuman hearing. His story and talents gained recognition from the team at Los Cabos Drumsticks in New Brunswick, Canada who signed Miller as an endorsing artist. It was this month that he was selected to appear on the cover of the their magazine, Backbeat.
Mike “The Moment” Miller was hooked on performing live from just 10 years of age, but he attended shows consistently with his family and friends while growing up in The San Francisco Bay Area. Although it was never easy, and after more than a half-dozen surgeries, Miller’s natural drive, abilities, religious faith, and his family’s encouragement put him on the road to success that evolved into his attending the prestigious Berklee College of Music.
“I never wanted to give up so I went to where the music was happening. I lived everywhere from L.A. to New York and back to San Francisco to do it. I was lucky enough to pick up tours with some great bands, too.” Touring with Interference, Everything Taken, Pammie Lowe, Take Down Tomorrow, Overturn, and as a session drummer, Miller’s work ethic keeps him busy.
“It’s my focus and my passion to perform,” reports Miller, now 29 and with endorsement deals from Los Cabos Drumsticks, Soultone Cymbals, and Future Sonics Ear Monitors. "I really appreciate this opportunity to do something bigger with the team at Los Cabos." Sound quality is actually more important to him than most people as a musician who regained his lost hearing. His choices for gear are mainly specific to their audio signature and his Rocket Shells Carbon Fiber drum kit with specially chosen Evans Drumheads help him deliver his own sound.
One thing beyond his abilities as a drummer, but that contributes to it, may surprise people in that, today, his hearing is actually better than most drummers in that his range is broader following his medical treatments. His hearing also benefits from his dedication to hearing protection and proper monitoring methods. For Miller, his extended hearing allows him to be very particular in choosing the tonal properties of all of his products for the stage and recording studio. With all that said, his skills as a drummer are remarkable – obstacles or not – and his signature sound makes him a great representative of any brand or band he chooses
Saturday 7 January 2012
National TV And Radio Star Richard Andersone & Illustrator Wife Louise Andersone...'Expecting!'
Richard and Louise Andersone are expecting their first child.
Richard Andersone whose family orientated shows on the SKY TV platform include the Breakfast with Richard Andersone show, The Vacancy which aids presenters at the start of their career, The National Battle of the Bands and the new star studded revolutionary Explosive Unsigned show recently tweeted, 'Great news.... Expecting!'
The pair who married in 2007 are considered 'exemplary young public figures with a can do attitude' by MOBO Award winner Jai Amore, 'fabulous' by Gok Wan and recently snapped with Take Me Out host Paddy McGuinness who was quoted calling them 'abit of alright'. Louise is known for her ongoing charitable work, fashion flair and illustration for personalities including renowned model Bip Ling.
Richard and Louise who contribute heavily to their community at both local and national level via various projects including fundraising initiatives, mentoring and activies such as Richard Andersone's Explosive Media Group's joint venture of the 'Be productive Not Destructive campaign'. The campaign raises awareness of the growing issue of gun and knife crime which has been supported by the Mayor of Walthamstow and is fronted by X Factor star Rachel Hylton and encourages young people to engage in productivity through music.
Richard Andersone said in a press statement today ''2012 marks a new beginning for us Andersone's; and for what we will offer Britain. I have set out a big year and vow to introduce more community projects to the country and plan for a bigger and better Explosive Unsigned Show in particular".. The show which aids emerging artists at the start of their career with constructive feedback and free help is expected to explode this year.
"This year we will have more stars involved, a bigger venue where the main show will take place and a new Awards Show called the Explosive Awads recognising emerging talent. We are very thankful to the public who have supported their new show in their tens of thousands last year and is still growing. We still aim to offer free help for new artists to feature on local and national stations, magazines and newspapers; and have them offered direct feedback from our music industry professionals and stars at the auditions. This year we are determined to have even more success stories than last year with signings and public appearances at local and national level of the shows acts on media platforms'.
For information on how and when to audition for the Explosive Unsigned show please visit www.explosiveunsigned.co.uk
Richard Andersone whose family orientated shows on the SKY TV platform include the Breakfast with Richard Andersone show, The Vacancy which aids presenters at the start of their career, The National Battle of the Bands and the new star studded revolutionary Explosive Unsigned show recently tweeted, 'Great news.... Expecting!'
The pair who married in 2007 are considered 'exemplary young public figures with a can do attitude' by MOBO Award winner Jai Amore, 'fabulous' by Gok Wan and recently snapped with Take Me Out host Paddy McGuinness who was quoted calling them 'abit of alright'. Louise is known for her ongoing charitable work, fashion flair and illustration for personalities including renowned model Bip Ling.
Richard and Louise who contribute heavily to their community at both local and national level via various projects including fundraising initiatives, mentoring and activies such as Richard Andersone's Explosive Media Group's joint venture of the 'Be productive Not Destructive campaign'. The campaign raises awareness of the growing issue of gun and knife crime which has been supported by the Mayor of Walthamstow and is fronted by X Factor star Rachel Hylton and encourages young people to engage in productivity through music.
Richard Andersone said in a press statement today ''2012 marks a new beginning for us Andersone's; and for what we will offer Britain. I have set out a big year and vow to introduce more community projects to the country and plan for a bigger and better Explosive Unsigned Show in particular".. The show which aids emerging artists at the start of their career with constructive feedback and free help is expected to explode this year.
"This year we will have more stars involved, a bigger venue where the main show will take place and a new Awards Show called the Explosive Awads recognising emerging talent. We are very thankful to the public who have supported their new show in their tens of thousands last year and is still growing. We still aim to offer free help for new artists to feature on local and national stations, magazines and newspapers; and have them offered direct feedback from our music industry professionals and stars at the auditions. This year we are determined to have even more success stories than last year with signings and public appearances at local and national level of the shows acts on media platforms'.
For information on how and when to audition for the Explosive Unsigned show please visit www.explosiveunsigned.co.uk
Thursday 5 January 2012
China Central Television goes live with three new internet delivered channels on FreeviewHD
• Three channels on launch deliver entertainment, documentaries and news
• FreeviewHD channel 111 – the new home of China Central Television in the UK
Vision IPTV has announced the launch of the first dedicated Chinese language channels to use the company’s internet broadcast playout services, delivering ground breaking entertainment via FreeviewHD channel 111.
Through this service, China Central Television (CCTV), the largest TV network in China, is able to use the FreeviewHD electronic programme guide (EPG) to deliver compelling new channels to the Chinese speaking audience in the UK. Viewers visiting FreeviewHD Channel 111 with an internet connected television or set top box have access via an onscreen carousel to three, free to view channels of live 24/7 broadcast. CCTV Channel 9 broadcasts a mixture of programming including film and drama; CCTV Channel 4 provides a range of documentaries; while a third channel provides the latest news coverage from China and worldwide.
Mr Zhu Tong, deputy editor in chief, CCTV said, “This is an exciting day for us, by delivering the very best and latest compelling television from China to our UK audience we hope to make them feel closer to home, even when they live on the other side of the world.”
John Mills, CEO of Vision IPTV, said: “CCTV has embraced the opportunity that internet television delivered over Freeview HD represents; to deliver high quality, world class broadcasting to the Chinese expat audience in the UK, and all for free.”
Vision IPTV’s online video platform supports the latest FreeviewHD enabled television sets and set top boxes on the market, including forthcoming YouView set top boxes, ensuring broadcasters such as CCTV can deliver compelling new TV services to wider audiences in the UK. Legacy devices or FreeviewHD devices not connected to the internet will receive a call to action message displayed on screen advising users on what is required to view these new internet delivered channels.
Find China Central Television on the FreeviewHD EPG (electronic programme guide) Channel 111. CCTV will grow its offering on channel 111 with an expanding mix of compelling new TV channels, premium content and interactive services for Chinese speakers across the UK.
FACTFILE:
China Central Television (CCTV) is the national TV station of the People´s Republic of China and it is one of China´s most important news broadcast companies. Today, CCTV has become one of China´s most influential media outlets. www.cctv.com / www.cntv.cn
The UK’s first dedicated international language network of channels available via internet connected FreeviewHD. Located on Channel 110 (a FreeviewHD digital interactive channel), Vision International TV Network currently provides viewers with access to packages of live simulcast and time delayed broadcast, video on demand, and interactive services.
Launch packages include Polska Plus & Hellenic. A separate channel, 111, hosts live Chinese language broadcasts from CCTV. Further international languages packages will launch through 2012. Packages can include premium subscription and free to air content.
About Vision IPTV
First to market in the provision of functional internet delivered broadcast, Vision IPTV provides a complete solution to clients wanting to create compelling TV and video services for connected audiences worldwide. The Vision IPTV online video platform can be customised for clients and supports all current commercial models from subscription, pay-as-you-go to PPV and advertiser funded.
Download music and do good at the same time
With over 16 million tracks, the hottest new releases and prices starting at 79p per track, Fairsharemusic is not dissimilar from other popular music sites – except that for every download you purchase, it donates half the profit to your chosen charity. The more you download, the more money goes to charity of your choice.
Lee Cannon, Co-founder of Fairsharemusic.com said “We're delighted to partner with Virgin Unite. At Fairsharemusic.com we've make it simple for people to give directly to a cause through something they're passionate about - you download, we donate. Music is the soundtrack to our lives, so why not use it to improve the lives of others.”
Jean Oelwang, CEO Virgin Unite said “We love the idea of fairsharemusic, an organization that does good and also gives people the chance to enjoy the gift of music. Virgin Unite is committed to ensuring that funds donated give marginalised young people the opportunity for a brighter future.”
Downloads with a difference! Switching to Fairsharemusic for your downloads will make a big difference to Virgin Unite. To find out more about this brilliant new fundraising tool, just visit our very own dedicated shop http://virginunite.fairsharemusic.com - the home of Feelgood Downloads.
FACTFILE:
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Virgin Unite’s overheads are covered by Sir Richard Branson and the Virgin Group, so 100% of additional donations received go direct to where they are needed most. For more information please visit www.virginunite.com. Follow them on Twitter www.twitter.com/virginunite or find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/VirginUnite
Wednesday 4 January 2012
Top South East Attraction Announces 2012 Events
The latest events list for the Kent & East Sussex Railway has been released. With plenty of new events added and many of the Railways most popular events continued there is bound to be something for everyone to enjoy this coming year, whether it is a trip with Thomas the Tank Engine or a step back to times gone by at the 1940s weekend.
A Day Out with Thomas 11-12 & 18-19 February
Thomas will be making exclusive appearances at Tenterden station with some of his friends including 'Sir Topham Hatt, The Fat Controller'. Tickets include a 1 hour train ride, the chance to enjoy "Thomas & Friends" station scenarios as well as a daily fun packed programme of children's events with Uncle Myles and Charlie the Clown. Adult £13.50 1st Class supp £3, Child £10.50 1st Class Supp £2
Kids for a Quid 14-17 February
The Kent & East Sussex Railway and Bodiam Castle have collaborated on a special promotion to offer great days out for families at affordable prices this half term. Available between 14 and 17 February 2012, Kids for a Quid offers families the chance to enjoy rides on the Kent & East Sussex Railway whilst paying just £1 for each child. Passengers can board the beautifully restored vintage steam trains at Tenterden Station, which will take them along the 10 ½ mile line to Bodiam station, passing through the Rother Valley. Vouchers, available from the Railway's website, are required.
Mother's Day 18 March
A special Mother's Day treat can be booked for £22.50 with the Kent & East Sussex Railway where the whole family can enjoy the service and style from a more gentle time. An age when opulent surroundings and attentive staff made our railways the envy of the world. This special Mother's Day treat includes a two-hour return journey on one of the Railway's restored steam trains, a reserved table for your family for either a hearty Ploughmans Lunch or a delicious Cream Tea together with a surprise gift for every Mum to take home to remember her special day. Relax on board and enjoy some quality time with Mum, as you take in the beautiful scenery of the surrounding countryside, interrupted only by the gentle chug of the steam engine. Mothers Day Treat £22.50, Adult £15.00, OAP £14.00 Child £10 plus catering
Rock With The Tots 31 March
Families will enjoy a 25 minute steam train journey on the Kent & East Sussex Railway along the picturesque line from Tenterden before alighting to see two of children's TV's favourite characters. Featuring popular pre-school television characters FiFi Forget-me-Not and her best friend Bumble, 'Rock With The Tots' is a high energy, sing-along stage show designed to entertain the whole family and encourage young family members to join in!
Adult £13.50 1st Class supp £3, Child £10.50 1st Class Supp £2
Family Ticket Offer Easter 2-5 & 10-13 April
Families can purchase a reduced ticket when travelling on the Kent & East Sussex Railway between these dates. Tickets reduced from £42 to £35. A Family ticket is valid for 2 Adults and up to 3 Children OR 1 Adult and up to 4 Children
Grandparents Weekend 14-15 April
Children can treat grandparents to a nostalgic day out for FREE on the Kent & East Sussex Railway during a special grandparents' weekend, when every child rover ticket purchased entitles a grandparent to travel for free. The unlimited day travel tickets allow visitors to hop off the train and explore the many activities each destination has to offer such as the shops in Tenterden or the magnificent Bodiam Castle. Or why not visit the new Mill Toy & Pedal Car Museum which can be found directly opposite Northiam station.
Spring Walks 28-29 April
On 28 and 29 April 2012 everyone can take advantage of the Kent & East Sussex Railway's special weekend summer promotion which combines a walk with a nostalgic steam train ride. Over the weekend, keen walkers can take advantage of a 25% discount on all single train fares along with a free copy of the glossy "Railtrails" guide book, featuring six different walks with maps. Those wishing not to walk can still purchase full price rover tickets and a standard train timetable will be operating over the weekend.
Steam Train Gala 5-7 May
All aboard for the annual 3 day Steam Train Gala at the Kent & East Sussex Railway in Tenterden starting on Saturday 5 May 2012. The event promises visiting locomotives, plenty of excitement with a range of one-off workings and special events spread across the three days of the bank holiday weekend. Gala prices - adult £17.50, Senior £15, Child £12.50, family £50, member £10. Two day tickets: adults £30, senior £25, child £20, member £20. Three day tickets: adult £35, senior £30, child £25, member £25.
1940s Weekend 19-20 May
On 19 and 20 May 2012 the Kent & East Sussex Railway will be hosting their annual 1940's weekend when visitors of all ages can re-live the forties lifestyle along the line. This historical railway is the ideal location for this unrivalled event, when period features including steamers, bunting, spivs and characters in authentic costume create a nostalgic atmosphere for visitors enjoying the variety of activities on offer. Adult £15.00, OAP £14.00 Child £10, Family £42
Family Ticket Offer 6-10 June
Families can purchase a reduced ticket when travelling on the Kent & East Sussex Railway between these dates. Tickets reduced from £42 to £35. A family ticket is valid for 2 Adults and up to 3 Children OR 1 Adult and up to 4 Children.
CAMRA Beer Festival 16 June
Celebrate the arrival of summer with a visit to the Kent & East Sussex Railway in Tenterden on Saturday 16 June 2012 for the annual CAMRA's Real Ale & Cider Festival. This popular social event takes place between 11:00am and 10:30pm (or until the beer runs out!) and is organised by the Ashford, Folkestone and Romney Marsh Branches of CAMRA, The Campaign for Real Ale. On the day visitors can partake in a wide range of activities, from trying a diverse range of some of the finest Ale, Cider and Perry in the exclusive beer tent, or relaxing and listening to an eclectic mix of live music. There will be a delicious selection of food from a BBQ or the licenced refreshment room. Adult £15.00, OAP £14.00 Child £10, Family £42
Father's Day 17 June
On Father's Day (Sunday 17 June) why not treat Dad to a day out at the Kent & East Sussex Railway in Tenterden for just £24.50. This special Father's Day treat includes a return journey on one of the Railway's stunning vintage steam trains and dad can choose from a delicious homemade ploughmans lunch or cream tea, served to your reserved table and complimented with a bottle of the railway's very own beer, "Dad's Delight" Fathers Day Treat £24.50. Adult £15.00, OAP £14.00 Child £10 plus catering.
Pensioners Treat, £10 a seat 26-28 June
Take a nostalgic steam train journey with the Kent & East Sussex Railway between 26 and 28 June 2012 and if you are over 60 take advantage of the special price all day rover ticket for seniors which is only £10. Everyone travelling on the railway can enjoy a 21-mile relaxing steam train ride in beautifully restored carriages travelling through picturesque countryside between Tenterden, Northiam and Bodiam stations.
WWI Event 30 June - 1 July
"Goodbye Dolly!" A Great War extravaganza featuring 30 living historians in appropriate military uniforms supported by 10 period interpreters portraying civilian personnel. Support equipment includes General Service Wagon, Lewis Machine Gun Cart, Water Cart, Dispatch Rider Motorcycle, Pedal Cycles, Casualty Reception Facility, Recruitment Tent and Period Photography Booth, Bell Tent encampment. Adult £15.00, OAP £14.00 Child £10, Family £42
Summer Walks 7-8 July
On 7 and 8 July 2012 everyone can take advantage of the Kent & East Sussex Railway's special weekend summer promotion which combines a walk with a nostalgic steam train ride. Over the weekend, keen walkers can take advantage of a 25% discount on all single train fares along with a free copy of the glossy "Railtrails" guide book, featuring six different walks with maps. Those wishing not to walk can still purchase full price rover tickets and a standard train timetable will be operating over the weekend.
A Day Out with Thomas 21-23 July
Families are invited to come along to The Kent & East Sussex Railway in Tenterden between 21 and 23 July 2012 to meet everyone's favourite steam engine Thomas the Tank Engine. Thomas will be making exclusive appearances at Tenterden station with some of his friends including 'Sir Topham Hatt, The Fat Controller'. Tickets cost from £13.50 per adult and £10.50 per child and include a 1 hour train ride behind one of the Railway's engines, the chance to enjoy "Thomas & Friends" station scenarios as well as a daily fun packed programme of children's events with Uncle Myles and Charlie the Clown. Adult £13.50 1st Class supp £3, Child £10.50 1st Class Supp £2
1960s Event 4-5 August
Become immersed in the sounds, sights and fashions of one of the most iconic decades of the last century. Adult £15.00, OAP £14.00 Child £10, Family £42
Hoppers Weekend 8-9 September
On the 8 and 9 September, visitors to Bodiam station can enjoy a whole weekend of "opping nostalgia" as the Kent & East Sussex Railway hosts its annual Hop Pickers Weekend. Bodiam was an important area for hop picking and the weekend re-lives the days when Londoners came 'dahn 'opping' for a summer break. Each summer hop pickers used to arrive in specially timetabled trains from London and this year the railway is celebrating 54 years since the last Hop Pickers Special arrived at Bodiam station. Adult £15.00, OAP £14.00 Child £10, Family £42
Pensioners Treat 18-20 September
Take a nostalgic steam train journey with the Kent & East Sussex Railway between Tuesday 18 and Thursday 20 September 2012 and if you are over 60 take advantage of the special price all day rover ticket for seniors which is only £10. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Bodiam Castle, which is a short walk from Bodiam Station, or The Mill Toy & Pedal Car Museum, which can be found directly opposite Northiam station. Enjoy reduced admission to either attraction on production of your train ticket. Allow time to see the restored Cavell Van at Bodiam Station. This historic carriage is an important railway legacy from the Great War era and carried Nurse Edith Cavell's coffin, that of Captain Charles Fryatt and the Unknown Warrior.
A Day Out with Thomas 29-30 September
Families are invited to come along to The Kent & East Sussex Railway in Tenterden between 29 and 30 September 2012 for a fun packed fantastic day out. Everyone's favourite steam engine Thomas the Tank Engine will be making exclusive appearances at Tenterden station with some of his friends including 'Sir Topham Hatt, The Fat Controller'. Tickets include a 1 hour train ride to Wittersham Road and back behind one of the Railway's engines, the chance to enjoy "Thomas & Friends" station scenarios as well as a daily fun packed programme of children's events with Uncle Myles and Charlie the Clown.
Adult £13.50 1st Class supp £3, Child £10.50 1st Class Supp £2
The 20th Tenterden Folk Festival 6-7 October
Tenterden Folk Festival is a four day long festival of folk song, music and dance. Tenterden, situated in the ancient Weald of Kent, about 12 miles west of Ashford, is an ideal setting for this friendly, family folk festival. It features one of the widest high streets in the country lined with historic and listed buildings, numerous friendly pubs and restaurants and green verges.
Austin Counties Car Rally 13-14 October
See a selection of these vehicles on show at Tenterden Station in what is the 20th year of this popular rally. Adult £15.00, OAP £14.00 Child £10, Family £42
Halloween Half Term Fun Week 29 - 31 October and 1 & 2 November
There will be plenty of spine tingling tricks and treats during 'Halloween fun week' from Monday 29 to Friday 2 November. Enjoy spooktacular entertainment at Tenterden station and join in the 'make and take' activities, including the pumpkin carving workshop. All activities are included in the ticket price.
Fright Night Trains 31 October and 2 November
As the clock strikes 6pm on Wednesday 31 and Friday 2 November take the Halloween Howler steam train ride from Tenterden Station on the popular 'Fright Night' Train. Enjoy scary face painting, 'make and take' activities and pumpkin carving at Tenterden Station from 4:30pm. Once on board, be prepared to be frightened silly with ghostly goings on at stations with a firework display and a few surprises along the way. Every child will also receive a delicious snack box for the all-inclusive ticket price of £16 Booking essential.
Families are encouraged to come in fancy dress, the scarier the better!
Cavell Van 11 November
On Sunday 11 November 2012, take part in a rare and exclusive opportunity and travel to Bodiam on the 11.30am steam departure from Tenterden station. A Terrier locomotive will make this special journey with a train formed of the Cavell Van, Birdcage and other historic vintage stock. The departure from Tenterden station will follow a Service of Remembrance at 10.45am and two minutes silence at 11.00am. Adult £15.00, OAP £14.00 Child £10, Family £42
Santa Specials Selected Dates in December 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-24 December
Meet Santa at one of Kent's best loved attractions this Christmas when you take a magical steam train journey at The Kent & East Sussex Railway's popular Santa Specials, now in their 38th year! When you arrive at Tenterden Station you'll be greeted by the sound of Christmas Carols and you can enjoy as many free rides on the Victorian carousel as you can fit into your day.
On board the beautifully decorated steam train families will meet Santa Claus during the hour long return journey to Wittersham Road. Children should also look out for the pixies whose sacks are full of lovely presents. After your train ride the fun continues at Tenterden Station. Plans are being made for one of the most exciting and unexpected entertainment events ever at a steam railway. All will be revealed! All £17.50, 1st Class £21, Early Bird (1&2) £14.50 + 1st class Supp £3, Christmas Eve Supp £1 on all fares.
This year is set to be an exciting one for the Kent & East Sussex Railway so be sure to not to miss out!
For more information on the Kent & East Sussex Railway and the listed events visit www.kesr.org.uk
A Day Out with Thomas 11-12 & 18-19 February
Thomas will be making exclusive appearances at Tenterden station with some of his friends including 'Sir Topham Hatt, The Fat Controller'. Tickets include a 1 hour train ride, the chance to enjoy "Thomas & Friends" station scenarios as well as a daily fun packed programme of children's events with Uncle Myles and Charlie the Clown. Adult £13.50 1st Class supp £3, Child £10.50 1st Class Supp £2
Kids for a Quid 14-17 February
The Kent & East Sussex Railway and Bodiam Castle have collaborated on a special promotion to offer great days out for families at affordable prices this half term. Available between 14 and 17 February 2012, Kids for a Quid offers families the chance to enjoy rides on the Kent & East Sussex Railway whilst paying just £1 for each child. Passengers can board the beautifully restored vintage steam trains at Tenterden Station, which will take them along the 10 ½ mile line to Bodiam station, passing through the Rother Valley. Vouchers, available from the Railway's website, are required.
Mother's Day 18 March
A special Mother's Day treat can be booked for £22.50 with the Kent & East Sussex Railway where the whole family can enjoy the service and style from a more gentle time. An age when opulent surroundings and attentive staff made our railways the envy of the world. This special Mother's Day treat includes a two-hour return journey on one of the Railway's restored steam trains, a reserved table for your family for either a hearty Ploughmans Lunch or a delicious Cream Tea together with a surprise gift for every Mum to take home to remember her special day. Relax on board and enjoy some quality time with Mum, as you take in the beautiful scenery of the surrounding countryside, interrupted only by the gentle chug of the steam engine. Mothers Day Treat £22.50, Adult £15.00, OAP £14.00 Child £10 plus catering
Rock With The Tots 31 March
Families will enjoy a 25 minute steam train journey on the Kent & East Sussex Railway along the picturesque line from Tenterden before alighting to see two of children's TV's favourite characters. Featuring popular pre-school television characters FiFi Forget-me-Not and her best friend Bumble, 'Rock With The Tots' is a high energy, sing-along stage show designed to entertain the whole family and encourage young family members to join in!
Adult £13.50 1st Class supp £3, Child £10.50 1st Class Supp £2
Family Ticket Offer Easter 2-5 & 10-13 April
Families can purchase a reduced ticket when travelling on the Kent & East Sussex Railway between these dates. Tickets reduced from £42 to £35. A Family ticket is valid for 2 Adults and up to 3 Children OR 1 Adult and up to 4 Children
Grandparents Weekend 14-15 April
Children can treat grandparents to a nostalgic day out for FREE on the Kent & East Sussex Railway during a special grandparents' weekend, when every child rover ticket purchased entitles a grandparent to travel for free. The unlimited day travel tickets allow visitors to hop off the train and explore the many activities each destination has to offer such as the shops in Tenterden or the magnificent Bodiam Castle. Or why not visit the new Mill Toy & Pedal Car Museum which can be found directly opposite Northiam station.
Spring Walks 28-29 April
On 28 and 29 April 2012 everyone can take advantage of the Kent & East Sussex Railway's special weekend summer promotion which combines a walk with a nostalgic steam train ride. Over the weekend, keen walkers can take advantage of a 25% discount on all single train fares along with a free copy of the glossy "Railtrails" guide book, featuring six different walks with maps. Those wishing not to walk can still purchase full price rover tickets and a standard train timetable will be operating over the weekend.
Steam Train Gala 5-7 May
All aboard for the annual 3 day Steam Train Gala at the Kent & East Sussex Railway in Tenterden starting on Saturday 5 May 2012. The event promises visiting locomotives, plenty of excitement with a range of one-off workings and special events spread across the three days of the bank holiday weekend. Gala prices - adult £17.50, Senior £15, Child £12.50, family £50, member £10. Two day tickets: adults £30, senior £25, child £20, member £20. Three day tickets: adult £35, senior £30, child £25, member £25.
1940s Weekend 19-20 May
On 19 and 20 May 2012 the Kent & East Sussex Railway will be hosting their annual 1940's weekend when visitors of all ages can re-live the forties lifestyle along the line. This historical railway is the ideal location for this unrivalled event, when period features including steamers, bunting, spivs and characters in authentic costume create a nostalgic atmosphere for visitors enjoying the variety of activities on offer. Adult £15.00, OAP £14.00 Child £10, Family £42
Family Ticket Offer 6-10 June
Families can purchase a reduced ticket when travelling on the Kent & East Sussex Railway between these dates. Tickets reduced from £42 to £35. A family ticket is valid for 2 Adults and up to 3 Children OR 1 Adult and up to 4 Children.
CAMRA Beer Festival 16 June
Celebrate the arrival of summer with a visit to the Kent & East Sussex Railway in Tenterden on Saturday 16 June 2012 for the annual CAMRA's Real Ale & Cider Festival. This popular social event takes place between 11:00am and 10:30pm (or until the beer runs out!) and is organised by the Ashford, Folkestone and Romney Marsh Branches of CAMRA, The Campaign for Real Ale. On the day visitors can partake in a wide range of activities, from trying a diverse range of some of the finest Ale, Cider and Perry in the exclusive beer tent, or relaxing and listening to an eclectic mix of live music. There will be a delicious selection of food from a BBQ or the licenced refreshment room. Adult £15.00, OAP £14.00 Child £10, Family £42
Father's Day 17 June
On Father's Day (Sunday 17 June) why not treat Dad to a day out at the Kent & East Sussex Railway in Tenterden for just £24.50. This special Father's Day treat includes a return journey on one of the Railway's stunning vintage steam trains and dad can choose from a delicious homemade ploughmans lunch or cream tea, served to your reserved table and complimented with a bottle of the railway's very own beer, "Dad's Delight" Fathers Day Treat £24.50. Adult £15.00, OAP £14.00 Child £10 plus catering.
Pensioners Treat, £10 a seat 26-28 June
Take a nostalgic steam train journey with the Kent & East Sussex Railway between 26 and 28 June 2012 and if you are over 60 take advantage of the special price all day rover ticket for seniors which is only £10. Everyone travelling on the railway can enjoy a 21-mile relaxing steam train ride in beautifully restored carriages travelling through picturesque countryside between Tenterden, Northiam and Bodiam stations.
WWI Event 30 June - 1 July
"Goodbye Dolly!" A Great War extravaganza featuring 30 living historians in appropriate military uniforms supported by 10 period interpreters portraying civilian personnel. Support equipment includes General Service Wagon, Lewis Machine Gun Cart, Water Cart, Dispatch Rider Motorcycle, Pedal Cycles, Casualty Reception Facility, Recruitment Tent and Period Photography Booth, Bell Tent encampment. Adult £15.00, OAP £14.00 Child £10, Family £42
Summer Walks 7-8 July
On 7 and 8 July 2012 everyone can take advantage of the Kent & East Sussex Railway's special weekend summer promotion which combines a walk with a nostalgic steam train ride. Over the weekend, keen walkers can take advantage of a 25% discount on all single train fares along with a free copy of the glossy "Railtrails" guide book, featuring six different walks with maps. Those wishing not to walk can still purchase full price rover tickets and a standard train timetable will be operating over the weekend.
A Day Out with Thomas 21-23 July
Families are invited to come along to The Kent & East Sussex Railway in Tenterden between 21 and 23 July 2012 to meet everyone's favourite steam engine Thomas the Tank Engine. Thomas will be making exclusive appearances at Tenterden station with some of his friends including 'Sir Topham Hatt, The Fat Controller'. Tickets cost from £13.50 per adult and £10.50 per child and include a 1 hour train ride behind one of the Railway's engines, the chance to enjoy "Thomas & Friends" station scenarios as well as a daily fun packed programme of children's events with Uncle Myles and Charlie the Clown. Adult £13.50 1st Class supp £3, Child £10.50 1st Class Supp £2
1960s Event 4-5 August
Become immersed in the sounds, sights and fashions of one of the most iconic decades of the last century. Adult £15.00, OAP £14.00 Child £10, Family £42
Hoppers Weekend 8-9 September
On the 8 and 9 September, visitors to Bodiam station can enjoy a whole weekend of "opping nostalgia" as the Kent & East Sussex Railway hosts its annual Hop Pickers Weekend. Bodiam was an important area for hop picking and the weekend re-lives the days when Londoners came 'dahn 'opping' for a summer break. Each summer hop pickers used to arrive in specially timetabled trains from London and this year the railway is celebrating 54 years since the last Hop Pickers Special arrived at Bodiam station. Adult £15.00, OAP £14.00 Child £10, Family £42
Pensioners Treat 18-20 September
Take a nostalgic steam train journey with the Kent & East Sussex Railway between Tuesday 18 and Thursday 20 September 2012 and if you are over 60 take advantage of the special price all day rover ticket for seniors which is only £10. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Bodiam Castle, which is a short walk from Bodiam Station, or The Mill Toy & Pedal Car Museum, which can be found directly opposite Northiam station. Enjoy reduced admission to either attraction on production of your train ticket. Allow time to see the restored Cavell Van at Bodiam Station. This historic carriage is an important railway legacy from the Great War era and carried Nurse Edith Cavell's coffin, that of Captain Charles Fryatt and the Unknown Warrior.
A Day Out with Thomas 29-30 September
Families are invited to come along to The Kent & East Sussex Railway in Tenterden between 29 and 30 September 2012 for a fun packed fantastic day out. Everyone's favourite steam engine Thomas the Tank Engine will be making exclusive appearances at Tenterden station with some of his friends including 'Sir Topham Hatt, The Fat Controller'. Tickets include a 1 hour train ride to Wittersham Road and back behind one of the Railway's engines, the chance to enjoy "Thomas & Friends" station scenarios as well as a daily fun packed programme of children's events with Uncle Myles and Charlie the Clown.
Adult £13.50 1st Class supp £3, Child £10.50 1st Class Supp £2
The 20th Tenterden Folk Festival 6-7 October
Tenterden Folk Festival is a four day long festival of folk song, music and dance. Tenterden, situated in the ancient Weald of Kent, about 12 miles west of Ashford, is an ideal setting for this friendly, family folk festival. It features one of the widest high streets in the country lined with historic and listed buildings, numerous friendly pubs and restaurants and green verges.
Austin Counties Car Rally 13-14 October
See a selection of these vehicles on show at Tenterden Station in what is the 20th year of this popular rally. Adult £15.00, OAP £14.00 Child £10, Family £42
Halloween Half Term Fun Week 29 - 31 October and 1 & 2 November
There will be plenty of spine tingling tricks and treats during 'Halloween fun week' from Monday 29 to Friday 2 November. Enjoy spooktacular entertainment at Tenterden station and join in the 'make and take' activities, including the pumpkin carving workshop. All activities are included in the ticket price.
Fright Night Trains 31 October and 2 November
As the clock strikes 6pm on Wednesday 31 and Friday 2 November take the Halloween Howler steam train ride from Tenterden Station on the popular 'Fright Night' Train. Enjoy scary face painting, 'make and take' activities and pumpkin carving at Tenterden Station from 4:30pm. Once on board, be prepared to be frightened silly with ghostly goings on at stations with a firework display and a few surprises along the way. Every child will also receive a delicious snack box for the all-inclusive ticket price of £16 Booking essential.
Families are encouraged to come in fancy dress, the scarier the better!
Cavell Van 11 November
On Sunday 11 November 2012, take part in a rare and exclusive opportunity and travel to Bodiam on the 11.30am steam departure from Tenterden station. A Terrier locomotive will make this special journey with a train formed of the Cavell Van, Birdcage and other historic vintage stock. The departure from Tenterden station will follow a Service of Remembrance at 10.45am and two minutes silence at 11.00am. Adult £15.00, OAP £14.00 Child £10, Family £42
Santa Specials Selected Dates in December 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-24 December
Meet Santa at one of Kent's best loved attractions this Christmas when you take a magical steam train journey at The Kent & East Sussex Railway's popular Santa Specials, now in their 38th year! When you arrive at Tenterden Station you'll be greeted by the sound of Christmas Carols and you can enjoy as many free rides on the Victorian carousel as you can fit into your day.
On board the beautifully decorated steam train families will meet Santa Claus during the hour long return journey to Wittersham Road. Children should also look out for the pixies whose sacks are full of lovely presents. After your train ride the fun continues at Tenterden Station. Plans are being made for one of the most exciting and unexpected entertainment events ever at a steam railway. All will be revealed! All £17.50, 1st Class £21, Early Bird (1&2) £14.50 + 1st class Supp £3, Christmas Eve Supp £1 on all fares.
This year is set to be an exciting one for the Kent & East Sussex Railway so be sure to not to miss out!
For more information on the Kent & East Sussex Railway and the listed events visit www.kesr.org.uk
Dancing On Ice 2012: FULL list of celebs taking part and bios!
Skating legends Torvill and Dean unveil a stellar cast of celebrities ready to take on their biggest challenge in ITV1's hit series Dancing On Ice.
The show that sprinkles a touch of glitz and glamour to the cold winter months, returns to our screens and unwraps a bevy of well known stars, dazzling costumes and a host of twists and turns both on and off the ice.
The celebrities taking part in the 2012 series are: Dallas icon Charlene Tilton, Hollywood actor Corey Feldman, Sugababe Heidi Range, singer Chesney Hawkes, actress Laila Morse, diet and fitness guru Rosemary Conley, children's TV presenter Sam Nixon, actress Jennifer Ellison, TV presenter Andy Akinwolere, Emmerdale actor Matthew Wolfenden, Hollyoaks star Jorgie Porter, founder of freerunning Sébastien Foucan, Britain's top female skier Chemmy Alcott, and children TV presenter Mark Rhodes and Coronation Street star Andy Whyment.
The new series will be filmed live at Elstree studios and sees the skating stars compete each week to perform the specially choreographed routines live in the studio.
Phillip Schofield and new co-host Christine Bleakley will be rink side to present the 7th series and unveil an all new Ice Panel. Returning Head Judge Robin Cousins will be joined by double Olympic champion Katarina Witt and acclaimed chorographer Louie Spence who they will be ready and waiting to deliver their verdicts. Head coach Karen Barber returns to offer her expertise and support to the show's celebrity skaters.
Following in the footsteps of previous winners Sam Attwater, Hayley Tamaddon Ray Quinn, Suzanne Shaw, Kyran Bracken and Gaynor Faye, our skating stars will battle it out to win the approval of the all important judges, capture the hearts of the nation, and compete for the title of Dancing on Ice Champion 2012.
The series that introduced spectacular moves including the headbanger, will see our famous novices hoping to impress the voting public with their skating skills but who will be the first to fall over? Who will attempt some of the trickier manoeuvres and will anyone fall foul to injury?
Dancing On Ice is an ITV Studios production for ITV1. The series was commissioned by Elaine Bedell, Director of Entertainment and Comedy at ITV and Layla Smith, Controller of Entertainment at ITV. It is Executive Produced by Glenn Coomber and Katie Rawcliffe at ITV Studios.
Exclusive show previews and ice extras at www.itv.com/ice
Dancing On Ice website: Join the judging panel on your iPhone!
Keep up with all the sequins, spins, frills and spills from the rink at the www.itv.com/ice website - and on your iPhone.
We'll bring you the latest Dancing On Ice news, views and highlights - while skating legends Torvill & Dean will be giving us the hottest gossip from the training rink and a preview of what's coming up in the show.
Naturally, we'll have all the live skating performances, those all-important judges' comments and an exclusive chat with the latest star to be voted off the show.
The Ice Panel will also give us their take on the action, as we replay their highlights and get their full candid commentary on the major talking points on and off the ice!
This year, your views matter more than ever, as you can now also play along for fun and score every dance as they happen on the website or using our sparkling new Dancing On Ice iPhone app. Once you've watched your favourite performances, share your score with your friends on Facebook and Twitter.
You can also watch all their exclusive videos clips on your phone, too. So you can keep up with all the action wherever and whenever you want.
Louie Spence and Katarina Witt join the ice panel on the new series of Dancing On Ice.
TV personality and chorographer Louie Spence and two-time champion figure skater Katarina Witt will be joining resident Head Judge Robin Cousins on the ice panel when the show returns in the New Year.
Head coach Karen Barber returns to offer her expertise and support to the show's celebrity skaters.
Acclaimed chorographer Louie will draw on his wealth of experience in dance and choreography to offer his critique on the celebrities' performances. Currently the artistic director at Pineapple studios, Louie has worked with some of the world's biggest stars including Kylie Minogue, Robbie Williams and Mariah Carey, before becoming a household name with the observational series based at internationally renowned Pineapple Dance Studios.
An original member of the award winning cast of Miss Saigon, he earned the coveted title of Primo Ballerino and danced with stars including Whitney Houston and Tina Turner. In 2008 Louie was one of the trio of judges on the successful NBC prime-time show Celebrity Circus and was voted as one of the top ten reality show judges in America.
Katarina Witt dominated figure skating for over a decade winning a legion of medals and making her one of the most successful figure skaters of all time. She won Olympic Golds in both the 1984 Sarajevo (the same year as Torvill and Dean's legendary Bolero gold medal win) and 1988 Calgary Olympics. She retains the record of most consecutive European titles, sharing it with fellow skater Sonja Henie.
After retiring from competitive skating, the former model has continued to entertain audiences appearing in Holiday on Ice, and also made the leap into acting winning an Emmy for her title role in 1990 film Carmen on Ice. She has since been inducted into the World Figure Skating Hall of Fame.
Louie Spence said: "I'm looking forward to being part of such a challenging and spectacular show and I can't wait to give my encouragement and critique on the contestants' dance and performance on the ice."
Katarina Witt said: "I can't wait to join the Dancing On Ice judging panel. As well as offering support and constructive advice to this years' celebrity skaters I'm also looking forward to working alongside my close friends Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean.
Layla Smith, Controller of Entertainment, ITV said: "We are thrilled to welcome Louie and Katarina to the new Dancing On Ice panel. The pair have a wealth of experience which they will be bringing to the new series. Their unique flare and passion for their professions will doubtless make for some interesting debates.
Dancing On Ice is an ITV Studios production for ITV1.
The Stars:
Charlene Tilton
Age: 52
Professional partner: Matt Gonzalez
My goal is to have Jayne Torvill's butt. I'm going to put a picture of her toosh on my refrigerator for inspiration!
Dallas star Charlene Tilton is looking to Jayne Torvill for more than just skating tips. The American actress is hoping to leave the series with a 'toned' skaters bottom like the Olympic legend.
The star of the '80s legendary TV series is hoping the hours of training for the new series of Dancing On Ice will help her accomplish this goal.
Charlene says, "My goal is to have Jayne Torvill's butt. I'm going to put a picture of her toosh on my refrigerator. Skaters have that bottom that's lifted and toned, it's fantastic, they all have it!"
The self confessed lifelong 'skating fan' admits that the years of being glued to the TV watching her skating heroes as a child, is now helping her master the technique on the ice.
Charlene says, "I remember as a kid, we had a black and white television. I have always been such a fan of ice skating and we loved watching it. My skating partner Matt Gonzalez and Christopher Dean have said that I've got natural ability. I think it's just because I've watched it so much growing up, I just loved it."
The actress can't wait to meet her fellow cast mates but also getting the chance to show her family, friends and viewers at home what she can do on the ice!
She says, "I'm just really excited to meet the rest of the cast. When you are in a situation like this you make friends for life. It's such an intense experience. I'm also looking forward to surprising some people with what I can do. When you get to my age, it just comes to show what you can do. With concentration and hard work you can accomplish things, it all boils down to 'hard work pays off'."
She continues, "I'm very disciplined and when you fall you have got to get back on that horse!"
Known for her portrayal of the feisty Lucy Ewing, Charlene admits that she has to learn to toughen up but is enjoying the challenge.
She says, "I do have to toughen up I don't like the cold and I'm a big sissy! I'm not a physical, athletic person at all, so this is really out of my comfort zone."
She continues, "I have never done any sports and I am so un-athletic. I do not have the mindset of a competitor or the mind set to learn a sport or be physically active like that. I am as diligent as I am when it comes to rehearsing for a play or a television show and I'll just apply that work ethic to this!"
Chemmy Alcott
Age: 29
Professional partner: Sean Rice
I love to dance, I'm very uninhibited. I'm one of these people who hit the clubs, dancing wildly, and you're like 'Good on her, lets not copy it though!
She may have tackled some of the toughest slopes in the world but sportswoman Chemmy Alcott admits that she is having the time of her life learning a new skill for Dancing On Ice.
As Britain's number one skier for a record seven years, Chemmy admits that she has found a new passion in ice skating and it's helping her rehabilitation since recent skiing accident.
Chemmy said, "I have this massive opportunity with Dancing On Ice to do something that is going to help me get into the right state with my leg and with my sport and with my head. It's just amazing and I'm so grateful. The first few skating sessions that I did, the coach would say 'on your right leg, which is the one I broke, 'go on your outside edge'. It would take me 10 meters to make that connection from my head to my leg. If I was doing that in a skiing situation, downhill, that would have been disastrous. That's why I can't bounce back and do my racing straight away; I don't have that body control any more."
She continued, "This is teaching me to do it in a safe environment. I didn't realise I was going to find it tough with my leg. I've been doing rehab for the last eight months, and it hasn't been sports specific, it's just been labouring rehab. But being able to take part in Dancing On Ice has been an eye opener I worry because if I hadn't of done this, I would have rushed back to skiing and I would have not been ready."
The professional skier admits that whilst her sporting background helped at the start of her training it's now become a hindrance.
Chemmy says, "When I was a very beginner it was helpful because I had the discipline to know where my body was, but now that I'm getting better it's a huge hindrance because I have trained my body for 28 years, getting into a certain position. For instance I look out of the circle when I'm ice skating, so when I'm skiing I put all my pressure, and my body leans over but I have to do the exact opposite for ice skating and my body pattern doesn't work that way."
As the tallest female in the competition this year, Chemmy admits she was relieved to be paired with Sean Rice who is 6ft 2.
Chemmy said, "We've start doing the lifts which are massively exciting. To be honest Sean does a huge amount of work, because the forces are all over the shop when you're dancing with me, and he has to hold all of that. They can do that, that's why you get the professionals.
She added," I love practising lifts but I do get a little bit dizzy after the spirals and stuff. One of my best abilities is to be able to trust people, whether that's financially, emotionally, when I go into things I go 100%. I never hold anything back. I feel guilty a little bit because I see him working extremely hard, I'm like 'I'm sorry, I shouldn't have had that curry last night!'
Chemmy is hopeful she will be able to make the transition from the slopes to performing a choreographed routine.
She says, "I love to dance, I'm very uninhibited. I'm one of these people who hit the clubs, dancing wildly, and you're like 'Good on her, let's not copy it though.'
Chemmy continues, I saw Jennifer Ellison the other day and she just looks beautiful on the ice. After watching Jennifer I was like 'my God, I need to work harder!' Although I don't know how to work harder because I'm working as hard as I can go!"
Heidi Range
Age: 28
Professional partner: Sylvain Longchambon
I'm still going to the gym. I went after my first costume fitting because I thought 'you're going to be in lycra on HD TV!
Sugababes singer Heidi Range admits that she'll be glad when the nerves she is experiencing whilst training for Dancing On Ice become a thing of the past.
Having performed at some of the UK's biggest music venues, the pop star admits she really is feeling nervous about her first performance.
Heidi says "I'd love to get to the stage where I'm performing and enjoying it, rather than just feeling nervous. Its great now that we're at Elstree more and we keep bumping into everyone, it's really nice, it's like a little gang now and I'm enjoying getting to know everyone. I've had the chance to spend time with Jennifer Ellison and Jorgie Porter which was really nice."
Heidi continues, "My friends and family are so excited. I've got a list of people asking if they can come and watch! Even when I'm training my friends keep coming to watch us and they want to make banners and t shirts!"
The singer admits that she has already noticed a change in her body shape as she embarks on the strenuous training sessions for the series.
Heidi said, "I've found that to help with the skating its good to work on your core. For a number of the moves, you have to hold yourself from the stomach. Your stomach muscles have to be strong. I've got aches in random areas that I never knew I'd have an ache in.
She continues, "I'm still going to the gym. I went after my first costume fitting I thought 'you're in lycra on HD TV'! Since training for Dancing On Ice I have noticed my body changing shape slightly. My legs and my bottom seem more toned which is good!"
Paired with professional skater Sylvain, the singer says she's trying not to think about the competitiveness and is focussing on mastering her own routine.
Heidi says, "I saw Sebastian Foucan the other day and he's really good. I don't really like watching the others as I don't want them to feel uncomfortable! I'd like to stay in the show for as long as possible. I'd really like to be there for a while to do different routines. It would be such a shame to do all this training, do the first show and go home!
She continues, "Sylvain is such a nice fella. He pushes me but not in an aggressive way. He'll be tough with me and then be like 'right do it on your own now'. I do the moves with him and I've got no weight on him, but it's just the fact I know he's there if I was going to fall! It's a confidence thing."
Jennifer Ellison
Age: 28
Skating partner: Daniel Whiston
I couldn't cook when I went into Hell's Kitchen and I did pretty well at that. I just need to learn to skate and I will be OK.
Actress and self confessed Dancing On Ice fan, Jennifer Ellison is thrilled to be taking part in the new series.
The actress reveals that she and her family have watched previous series and it was her mum that convinced her to take part.
Jennifer says, "As a family Dancing on Ice is something that we all love. Every year we all sit there on the sofa and watch it. I'm always saying 'I'd love to do that one year', and my mum is always saying you should but my husband is like 'no, no she will break every bone in her body and lose her teeth!'"
She continued, "Having a dance background (to me) Torvill and Dean are icons. I remember when I was doing a modern dance championship and my mum copied one of the costumes that Jayne wore a year after the Bolero. My version didn't look very good but I thought it was fabulous."
The mum of one is relishing the challenge and says the show is helping regain her fitness.
Jennifer says, "It's a huge personal challenge because I seem to have just been a mum for and I've loved every minute of it. It's funny because I've said to myself I need to get back into work."
She continues, "I used to be very sporty but since having a baby that's kind of all gone and I haven't really been to the gym for a long time. I'm literally starting from scratch, fitness wise. I have put myself on a diet and I'm going to go to the gym. It's a big massive thing personally for me, it's not just about doing a show.
The actress admits that the one thing she is most looking forward to is dressing up each week in the skating costumes.
Jennifer says, "I am really looking forward to the costumes. I think that's one of the best parts about the show when you watch each week and you see somebody come out and you can see what they are wearing. I'm going to look like a human Girl's World or Barbie Doll!"
She continues, "I'm looking forward to learning to ice skate, putting the hours in and trying my best and seeing what results I get. I couldn't cook when I went into Hell's Kitchen and I did pretty well at that. I just need to learn to skate and I will be OK."
Jorgie Porter
Age: 23
Professional partner: Matt Evers
Forget the headbanger. We've already practised lifts scarier than that!
Hollyoaks favourite Jorgie Porter has unleashed her inner dare devil and has already started learning difficult lifts as she trains for the new series of Dancing On Ice.
Paired with Matt Evers who first unveiled the legendary headbanger with partner Bonnie Langford in the first series, Jorgie admits she's not fazed by this iconic skating trick.
Jorgie says, "I want to do the headbanger, I'm not scared. We've done lifts already which I think are even scarier than that! Matt literally holds me up with one hand on my bum cheek! I think there are scarier things than the head banger. The hardest thing is getting out of the lifts as you've got to land on your foot, if you can't find your foot you're in trouble!"
She continues, "I worry about falling over on the live shows or getting the routine wrong, not being in time with the music or worst still, slapping Matt in the privates with my skates. It can happen!"
Following in the footsteps of fellow cast mates Kieron Richardson and Jennifer Metcalfe who have both appeared on previous series, the actress reveals she's been quizzing them about their time on the show.
Jorgie says, "I've been speaking to Kieron and Jen about Dancing On Ice. Kieran was like 'Oh my God you're going to love it. They've literally told me the schedules of what happens in what month and have both said that they really miss it! Jen told me not to be scared and that she would have done a lot more if she hadn't been so scared."
The actress is looking forward to all the glitz and glamour when the live shows start in the New Year.
Jorgie says, "I'm looking forward to the sequins, the make up and the hair! Also I'm enjoying learning a skill that I can do every Christmas. It's not like scuba diving where you have to go out there and find it, these rinks pop up everywhere!
She continues, "I think I did lose a little bit of weight when I first started and I've started to notice my bottom, legs and thighs are toned! I woke up one day and I had to pick up my own leg to put my pants on, I was like 'this is so painful!'"
Jorgie admits that her family are thrilled she is taking part in the series and have already designed the banner they plan to hold whilst watching in the audience.
She says, "My family can't really believe it but they're very excited and want to come and see me. They've even made a banner of support and have mentioned getting t-shirts made. My mum keeps everything so even if I get voted off, my mum will cut things out of the magazines and stick it in a folder!"
Laila Morse
Age: 66
Professional partner: Lukasz Rozycki
I can't wait! I'm looking forward to the sparkles, false eyelashes and the spray tans; we'll all skate out each Sunday looking like we've been tangoed.
Actress Laila Morse maybe the oldest contestant in the competition this series but she's looking forward to the challenge of learning a new skill.
Having watched former cast mate Danniella Westbrook take part in the series in 2010, Laila can't wait to finally meeting all of her fellow celebrities.
With training for the series underway, the popular TV actress admits she is ready to embrace the whole Dancing On Ice experience.
Laila says, "My friends and family all think I'm mad, skating at my age but it's a challenge and they did say they'll all come down so I'll have a full house in the audience!"
She continues, "I'm looking forward to being apart of the whole show and especially meeting the other celebrities. I've already bumped into Heidi Range from the Sugababes and Andy Whyment from Corrie and we were all chatting about our training."
The TV star reveals that she's not fazed by skating live on national TV but is hoping that she doesn't fall over.
Laila says, "My only worry is if I make mistakes, fall over or trip up. But I'm not thinking about that I'm just going to try and enjoy it. Skating is a lot harder; the professionals make it look so easy!"
As the live shows are fast approaching, Laila is ready to embrace the daring costumes and sparkle associated with the show.
Laila says, "I can't wait for all of it, the sparkles, false eyelashes and tans; It's like being pampered! We'll be skating out each Sunday looking like we've been tangoed!"
Laila is teamed with professional skater Lukasz Rozycki and the pair are already forging a strong partnership.
She says, "(Lukasz) is a really nice guy and we get on well. He knows my limitations which helps!
Laila continues, "I remember watching Jayne and Chris performing the Bolero. They are fabulous skaters. It was lovely to watch."
Rosemary Conley
Age: 64
Professional partner: Mark Hanretty
Dancing On Ice has made me feel like I'm 25 again! My husband has said he's never seen me so happy in the 28 years that we've been together!
Diet and fitness guru Rosemary Conley admits she's having the time of her life rehearsing for the new series of Dancing On Ice, so much so her husband has commented that he's never seen her so happy.
Partnered with professional skater, Mark Hanretty, Rosemary brings them both pack lunches to ensure they are eating the right foods before training.
Rosemary says, "The only healthy thing that I'm doing is eating more which I can with all the exercising I am doing. I take Mark's lunch everyday because I want to make sure that he is going to be well looked after. So while I'm packing my own lunch, I'm packing his as well."
She continues, "To be honest I'm not suffering with any aches and pains. I always do my stretches afterwards and we always warm up carefully and Mark is very thorough with his tuition and his discipline, how to look after us and so on. I just want to get to January in one piece. I've been on the ceiling with excitement since I started training; my husband has said he's never seen me so happy in the 28 years that we've been together!"
Rosemary reveals that she was at first intimated when she met skating legends Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean.
She says, "It's almost like you can't describe your first meeting with Torvill and Dean and it's because you've just got so much respect for them they are such unique and amazing skaters in their own right but they're just so genuinely lovely. Before the programme I was a bit intimidated by Christopher Dean, and in actual fact he's absolutely lovely. The reason I've been intimidated by him is because I've picked up over the various series that he's asked people to do things that are really quite tough and after all that he's just a hard task master but he's been totally lovely and Jayne Torvill is a joy."
Having earned huge respect for her diet and fitness advice, Rosemary admits that skating is teaching her to get into poses she never thought possible!
She says, "I'm certainly getting my body into positions I didn't know I ever could and I'm certainly bending backwards more than I thought I ever would or could!"
Rosemary continues, "I'm dreading throwing up after I've done a spin on the ice! Last week we practiced the spin but when Mark put me back down on the ice, I couldn't get up! When I got home, I couldn't eat my dinner - it took me four hours recover!
Andy Akinwolere
Age: 29
Professional partner: Maria Filippov
I'm from Africa we were born with rhythm! I'm hoping that if my hips do a little bit of wiggling, it will distract from the fact that I'm a really bad skater!
Former Blue Peter presenter Andy Akinwolere is hoping skating partner Maria Fillapov will be able to turn him into this year's Ray Quinn.
Maria won series four of Dancing On Ice with Ray in 2009 and Andy admits there is pressure, and hopes the audience will enjoy his routines.
Andy says, "I saw Ray win, he raised the bar for male contestants. There's a pressure for any male that wants to come into Dancing On Ice to give it 100 percent and guys can be competitive but in a very sly way! I just want to try stuff that takes me out of my comfort zone, I really want to put on a good show for people and hope that they can see the progress I've have made."
He continues, "I was chuffed when I first met my skating partner. Maria seeks perfection and I think that's the sort of person I need. I'm a little bit scared of her because she wants things to look good and actually it's become a respect thing which I really like. I really respect her as a person. I like her style anyway and when you see her doing the dancing it's actually dream worthy; honestly she's so fluid and her lines are brilliant."
However there is one part of the show that Andy is not looking forward to and that's the Dancing On Ice costumes.
He says, "I'm not sure I'm ready for spandex and lycra! I'm a bit worried about my bottom sticking out in lycra! I don't usually think about these things but the other day I was like, 'you've actually got quite a big ass', but we'll see; this is a whole different kettle of fish, we're talking sparkles and sequins!"
Whilst the presenter is revelling in learning a new skill, he admits it's now dominating his life and he's even practising his skating steps whilst walking down the street.
Andy says, "I'm not only dreaming about it but I'm also practising in my living room, you've got to get the points really well and you've got to get them done precisely. So if I'm standing in my living room trying to do a cross over, I'm thinking about the position of my legs and the position of my arms. I caught myself walking down the street the other day practising a few barrel rolls."
He continues, "I'm one of these people that if I do something I want to do it really well. I want to give it as much effort as possible. With Dancing on Ice you really do have to give it 100 percent, otherwise you won't see any results. I'm also really impatient with myself and that's my biggest problem. I'm learning to sit back, relax, because then I wouldn't get any results. By the end of this I would have learnt a phenomenal skill and I love learning new things"
Andy Whyment
Age: 30
Professional partner: Vicky Ogden
All the lads from Corrie have been winding me up saying 'It's going to be like bambi on ice', and then they add 'when I watch it, I'll be hoping you fall!
Coronation Street favourite Andy Whyment admits he never imagined taking part in Dancing On Ice but is feeling proud of his achievements so far even if he has to take constant mocking from his cast mates.
He says, "I'm looking forward to the whole thing. It's made me quite proud of myself. I remember watching the series last year with Steven Arnold and thinking 'they're all mad!', then this year I'm doing it! Watching Stevie last year, I would've never imagined doing it this year. It's a whirlwind, every time I get on the ice I still think I'm mad for doing it!
Andy continues, "All the lads from work have been winding me up saying 'It's going to be like bambi on ice', and then they add 'when I watch it, I'll be hoping you fall.'"
Andy admits that the first few weeks of training were tough but he's now starting to enjoy being on the ice.
Andy says, "I'm enjoying more now. I'm sure everyone is in the same predicament because when it comes to that first day, we're all out of our comfort zone. I've been putting everything I can into it because I don't want to go out there and make a fool out of myself. I always said I'd put a hundred and ten percent in and that's what I'm doing. I'm not going to be an absolutely amazing skater but I'm not going to be dreadful either!
"It's quite easy to stand up and skate around in a circle, I think most people can do that. It's when you start putting in movements, knowing what side of the blade to be on; I just find it really difficult. To be honest with you I'm quite proud of myself, because I wouldn't of thought I'd be doing half the stuff I'm doing now! The more you work on it, the better you'll get."
He continues, "We tried a new lift today, and as soon as I lifted my skating partner, I landed straight onto my bottom! It wasn't a high one, she just put her legs around my waist but I had my weight too far forward as soon as she jumped, I tried to compensate for it and went flat on my back side. I'm not scared of falling. I'd be mortified but Vicky wouldn't ask me to do anything that she didn't think I could do."
With the live shows looming Andy reveals that he's not worried about wearing the tight skating outfits but is dreading the customary spray tans.
Andy says, "I wear those tight lycra tops when I'm in training because they keep you warm, it's obviously not sequiny! I'm getting used to wearing them now so the costumes don't bother me! But I said to the production team that I'm definitely not getting a spray tan! I'm all natural! It's absolutely not happening!
The actor admits that whilst he's competitive he's not thinking about the competitive side to the show instead he's much more interested in having fun.
Andy says, "I am competitive but there's always going to be better skaters there than I am. There are always three or four really good skaters, so I won't be one of them. I'm not really looking at rivals. I just want to enjoy myself and just get the most out of it as I can."
Chesney Hawkes
Age: 40
Professional partner: Jodeyne Higgins
I'm throwing myself into it 100% percent...well as much as I can with 3 jobs and 3 kids.
Singer Chesney Hawkes admits he's not afraid to bare his chest in a skating outfits for the new series of Dancing On Ice.
With the full backing of his family, Chesney says he's ready to embrace the tight spandex outfit and has challenged the costume team to 'bring it on.'
Chesney says, "I'm trying not to think about the live shows! I guess the thing I'm most looking forward to is having my kids there. I'm really excited to see their little faces watching daddy in spandex! I had a meeting with the costume designer and he asked if there was anything I wouldn't like to wear and I was like 'No! Bring it on!' He then asked, 'so you don't mind showing a bit of breast?' and I was like 'no not at all!'
The singer revealed he was shocked to find out family friend and Britain's number one female skier Chemmy Alcott will also be taking part in the series.
He said, "Chemmy and I are mates, she's friends with my wife. Obviously we're not allowed to say anything, so my first day at the rink I saw Chemmy and I said 'what are you doing here?' and she said 'DOI, what are you doing here?', 'DOI'!
Chesney continues, "We often banter about who is going to win, Chemmy jokes that its going to be her but she doesn't realise the power of the hawk."
Chesney's biggest fear is following in the same footsteps as actor and previous Dancing On Ice contestant Todd Carty and almost have an accident live on national TV.
Chesney says, "I guess I'm dreading doing a 'Todd Carty' really and not being ready technically. I just want to be comfortable and being able to do the steps second nature. It's when you think too much is when it all goes wrong."
He continues, "The fact is we're all out of our comfort zone here, we're not professional skaters. We're all going to give it our all and our best, and if our best is not up to their standards, I'm sure we'll get judged accordingly and I'm quite happy to take anything. Plus I'll give as much as I get."
Chesney revealed that whilst he's happy with his progress on the ice so far he admits he's not quite at the standard of last year's champion, Sam Attwater.
He says, "I can skate backwards now. I think in the early stages it's about feeling every step, taking baby steps. I think I'm quite good with footwork now, but then you're posture goes out when you're thinking about one thing, which is what happens when you're learning, before it comes second nature. Unless you're a natural like Sam (Attwater) last year."
Corey Feldman
Age: 40
Professional partner: Brooke Castile
I have no fear when it comes to confrontation, being direct, being honest, upfront but when it comes to say a paper cut, I'll cry all day! I have a very low thresh hold for pain
Hollywood actor Corey Feldman admits that whilst he's excited to be taking part in the new series of Dancing On Ice his biggest fear is falling on the ice.
Star of hit films such as The Lost Boys, The Goonies and Stand By Me, Corey reveals that his biggest fear is hurting himself.
Corey says, "I have no fear when it comes to confrontation being direct, being honest, upfront but when it comes to like a paper cut I'll cry all day! I have a very low thresh hold for pain I am a little but wimpy when it comes to that stuff. I really am scared of hurting myself."
He continues, "I love the dancing part, that's the easy part because it's a part of me. Rhythm and I we're together but when it comes to being on ice that's the challenging part. Ice is a very tricky thing and I have had a skiing accident once where I broke my scapular and slipped two discs so I know that it's a very fragile thing. You can make one wrong move and you can lose control. So I know that happens, I know that's possible and that's the part I'm afraid of, the things that go beyond your control!"
Corey admits that whilst he's enjoying the chance to learn a new skill, he's approaching his training with some trepidation.
He says, "I would love to impress myself. I would be so amazed if I come out of this having this brand new gift, this brand new skill, which I think is possible or I wouldn't be here. However I also think it's quite possible I will fail miserably and end up flat on my face!"
Corey continues, "I'm excited, I'm looking forward to the opportunity and the challenge. I want to make sure I do a good job and I don't screw up. I think the key for me is not too be too over confident and not to expect too much out of myself and just take it slow. This is going to be a big learning curve for me, so in the beginning all I want to do is patiently observe and learn and try things in a very slow building process so that I really soak it all in and do the best that I can."
The American star is looking forward to spending time in the UK and admits that one of the reasons for doing the show was for his UK based fans.
Corey says, "There's a lot of reasons why I want to be here, number one first and foremost this is for the British fans because I know they will love the opportunity to have me around, close in the vicinity where they can actually come and be a part if it."
He continues, "I'm really excited about the idea that I get to spend a long period of time in England because I love it so much the culture, the music, the fashion."
A self confessed 'workaholic' Corey says he's hoping the judge's critiques won't be too harsh!
Corey says, "I am very sensitive so hopefully the judges won't be too mean. I'm very driven, very motivated and if anybody's going to put the pressure on its going to be me doing it to myself. I'm a very hard worker, I'm a workaholic I work best under pressure, I need to focus I have so much energy brewing inside me that I really have to take it and focus it otherwise its all over the universe."
Mark Rhodes
Age: 30
Professional partner: Frankie
Sam Nixon would be lying if he didn't admit that we both want to out do each other!
Children's TV presenter Mark Rhodes is getting ready to step out with a new partner, Frankie Poultney when he steps onto the ice for the new series' of hit entertainment show Dancing On Ice.
Viewers will see Mark and TV partner Sam Nixon, who have been presenting together for nearly a decade, competing against each other for the first time since their first they met Pop Idol back in 2003.
Mark says, "It's really weird because me and Sam have crossed paths when starting a session and we're like talking to each other in code as its secret at the moment. We've not been in competition with each other since Pop Idol years ago so it's a bit odd! Whilst we will be supporting each other, Sam would be lying if he said we both want to out do each other!"
He continues, "I think Andy from Blue Peter is going to do really well because he's a fit lad; I've played football with him a lot. Heidi from the Sugababes looks athletic and I've seen her practising and she's really good. I don't think I want to watch anyone else do it because it makes me more nervous!"
Mark admits he's already noticing a change in his physique since he started rehearsals for the series.
He says, "I've lost about six pounds, it's amazing! The thing is you use muscles that you never ever thought you had and it's just so hard on those muscles that you've not used before. I'm used to playing football, but it's a completely different sport and it's completely different muscles that you're using. You do get a bit achy, but it's good for fitness definitely; It's the best fitness slavery I've ever had!"
He continues, "I've been stocking up on the carbs, but I always used to do that anyway before I started training for Dancing On Ice but I have cut out a lot of alcohol because dehydrates you and I've been having more water. I've been going to the toilet every five minutes!"
With the live shows starting in the New Year, Mark admits that he's nervous about stepping onto the ice in front of an audience.
Sam says, "I'm not dreading the outfits because as children's television presenters this is will be bland in comparison! I'm nervous about that first routine. When they call out our name and you skate onto the ice, all that hard work for just a one minute routine, with millions of people watching the show I don't want to make a fool of myself! If I am lucky enough to stay in after that first performance I think I'll be a little bit more chilled to the whole magnitude of the event!"
He continues, "Ice skating is the hardest sport I've ever tried and will ever try! Sam and I have done some crazy stuff for cameras like synchronized swimming! But I've got so much respect for the professionals that make it look easy because it's one of the hardest disciplines that I've ever seen. To make it look easy, you've got to put in so much graft!"
Matthew Wolfenden
Age: 30
Professional partner: Nina Ulanova
"I'm quite looking forward to the outfits! I'm going to be proper blinged up! The lads down the pub will take the mickey but they all want tickets!"
Emmerdale actor Matthew Wolfenden admits he's feeling the pressure as he attempts to follow in the footsteps of former Dancing On Ice winner and fellow soap colleague Hayley Tamaddon.
Convinced to take part in the series by fiancée and fellow Emmerdale actress Charley Webb, Matthew says as the first male from the soap to appear he's got 'a lot to live up to.'
He says, "My fiancée Charley is a massive fan of Dancing On Ice and has said for the last few years that I should give it a bash but I've always chickened out. It was Charley who pushed me in the right direction, and I'm glad she did because I'm loving it."
Matthew continues, "Training for Dancing On Ice is tiring, it's hard work. I'm training in the morning or the evening depending on which way I can fit it around my filming. There's been number of Emmerdale cast members who have taken part in Dancing On Ice but I'm the first male so I've got a lot to live up to."
Having trained as a gymnast and dancer, Matthew reveals that Dancing On Ice is pushing his fitness regime to the limits.
He says, "I've always worked out. I've gone to the gym all my life. I've grown up doing gymnastics and then I was trained as a dancer. I've enjoyed learning a new skill but since training for Dancing On Ice I have found new muscles I didn't know I had in my legs, they're absolutely killing me! Being a dancer has helped me with my upper body but it also hindered me a little, you have to use a different foot or take off slightly different than if you were dancing normally on the ground, instead of the slippery stuff."
Matthew continues, "I'm enjoying working with my skating partner Nina. Over the weeks we've been learning lifts off the ice and a few fancy tricks but it's just trying doing it with the skates on! The skates are quite heavy so its fine lifting Nina without the skates on, then you get the skates on and to be honest, the skates nearly weigh as much as she does."
Undeterred by the skating costumes, Matthew is also hoping to follow in Chris Fountain and Ray Quinn's footsteps by attempting difficult jumps on the live shows.
Matthew says, "I'm looking forward to the outfits! I'm going to be proper blinged up. The lads down the pub will take the mickey but they all want tickets."
He continues, "We've been working a lot on jumps and I'm hoping, if I'm lucky enough to stay in that I will be able to attempt an axel at some point in the competition. I'm a bit nervous about trying the head banger it looks ridiculously scary, not necessarily for me but for my skating partner, Nina."
Sam Nixon
Age: 25
Professional partner: Alexandra Schauman
I've been looking at clips of Ray Quinn performing on Dancing On Ice which is stupid because there's no way I'm going to be anywhere near as good as that!
Children's TV presenter Sam Nixon admits he's been watching recordings of former Dancing On Ice champion Ray Quinn's performances on the show for inspiration as he prepares to take to the ice in the new series.
Viewers will see Sam competing against his TV partner Mark Rhodes as they prepare to go head to head on the show.
Sam says, "I've watched previous series of Dancing On Ice but since taking part I've been watching clips of previous performances. I must admit Ray Quinn's the one that I've been looking at a lot, which is stupid because there's no way I'm going to be anywhere near as good as that! But it's just amazing to watch him. It does massively inspire you, he's just fantastic."
He continues, "I would love the thought of being able to leave the ice and do even just a little jump. But at the minute we've not practised jumps; I'm a million miles away from that. But the thought of me being able to do it excites me. Whether I'll be able to do it is another story. I think that would be a massive achievement for me, but at the minute I'm content with mastering the basic steps!"
With the new series starting shortly on ITV1, Sam admits he's not fazed by the bright and often daring skating costumes and training for the show has revealed a different side to his character.
Sam said, "I suppose it would be a nice little victory for both myself and Mark if one of us did better than the other. It's weird because we've have not seen each other train. We do everything together, but with this we're doing it separately; we don't know how each other are doing. I think I've realised that I'm a perfectionist, so if I'm lucky to stay in longer that one week, I think I'll want to get better and better at this!"
He continues, "At the minute I think I'm getting better as the weeks going on which is good and I just want that to carry on. If I know I've given it my best, that's what I'll look forward to the most."
The TV star reveals that whilst he's attempting to master basic skating he's nervous of learning the chorography for his first routine.
Sam says, "At the minute we're just doing the basics of skating and I think as soon as they throw in a bit of choreography I am a little nervous about that I must admit! Doing spins also terrifies me because I get so dizzy so quickly. I'm dreading the spins. Also I've got no idea what my face is going to look like because at the minute it's just full on concentration!"
Sebastian Foucan
Age: 37
Professional partner: Brianne Delcourt
Freerunning on land is very different to on ice so it's a bit early to know if I can incorporate any of my moves, for now, I am still learning the basics.
Sébastien Foucan may have founded 'freerunning' but admits learning how to skate for ITV1's Dancing On Ice has been much harder than he anticipated.
Sébastien said, "I would say ice skating is different from what I thought, it's harder and it's a difficult task, even just co-ordination and balance when you are on the ice. There's also always about five things to remember at once but I don't feel scared so am not afraid to push myself to try new things."
He continues, "Ice skating is absolutely different from what I am used to doing. The muscles we are using are different, so they are becoming more defined. I am aching a bit in places I not used to working so much, but in a good way! I'm having a great experience in the learning process and I am looking forward to the performances and meeting all the other celebrities properly.
The French star's jaw dropping skills have even made Hollywood sit up and take notice and earned him a role hit movie Casino Royale alongside Daniel Craig and Sébastien's hoping he can bring his unique blend of skill and flair to the ice.
He said, "I know it is a competition but I am here to challenge myself. It's like nothing I have done before so it's hard to know how well I will compare to the other celebrity skaters. My aim is to be a good ice skater and work perfectly with my partner as one and if we can amaze people by our performance that would be great. I see it more as an art form and that is why I love it and I really want to do a really beautiful performance on the ice!
Teamed with skating professional Brianne Delcourt, who won the competition last year with Sam Attwater, Sébastien admits he's feeling the pressure to repeat her success.
He said, "Brianne won last series with a great partner (Sam Attwater) and I know they worked really hard so there's a lot to live up to. I just want to do my very best, for her too.
"I put a lot of pressure on myself. I am really amazed by Brianne's skill, she is an incredible skater and I want to do better all the time. Even though I haven't known her for very long we are getting on well. I know its all part of the show and performance but I hope I will not look ridiculous in the costumes! I don't want to leave the show too early either, so I could say I am dreading the time when we get voted off!"
Q&A with Hosts Philip Schofield and Christine Bleakley:-
Philip Schofield
What has been your favourite moment?
For me it was Tony Gubba's commentary, after Todd Carty had spun out of control. Tony Gubba is a very serious sports commentator and it was his commentary that was funny, as he only just held it together. Todd was very funny but it was the fact that Tony nearly lost it that made me laugh even more!
What has been your stand out performance from any series?
Vanilla Ice skating to his own song, Ice Ice Baby last series. He just made me laugh and smile and the madness of having Vanilla ice skate to his own song!
Tell us a little secret about filming for Dancing on Ice?
Weirdly, I have to pull my socks up before we go up the steps, and out on the opening of the show. You can guarantee by the time the announcer is saying ladies and gentleman please welcome your hosts I'm pulling up my socks.
Christine Bleakley will be presenting alongside you on this series plus Katarina Witt and Louie Spence are joining the judging panel what would be your advice to them about being a part of the show?
Enjoy it, be yourself and be honest.
We're now on series seven of Dancing On Ice does it surprise you with how popular the series has remained with the British public?
Yes and I don't think there is any better antidote to freezing cold evenings. It's great as it sees us all the way through the winter. It's a big family show where you have the glamour; showbiz; campness and the jeopardy. What's great is it's a show that you can sit down and watch with the whole family, and everybody has got a favourite. I think there is no better way to spend your winter evenings.
Christine Bleakley
You will be hosting Dancing on Ice along side Phillip Schofield, what are you most looking forward too and why?
I'm looking forward to absolutely every aspect. Working alongside the Ice King Phillip Schofield and the legends that are Torvill and Dean are obvious highlights but the show is one of my favourites and I can't quite believe I'm going to be part of it.
Have you seen the show before? What has been your stand out performance from any series or favourite celebrity ice skater?
I've watched every series and love it. I really enjoyed Hayley Tamaddon and Ray Quinn's performances but we always need a bit of loveable comedy and Todd Carty always provided us with that.
Have you ever ice skated, and if so how good are you on the ice?
I've skated maybe three times in my life and was utterly useless. Fear takes over and I visualise all the potential injuries I might inflict.
Having appeared on Strictly Come Dancing do you have any tips for the celebrities who will be stepping out of their comfort zone?
I will completely understand how they feel. It is a nerve wrecking experience doing any kind of performance you're not use to but by adding skates and potential injuries the celebrities will be outside of any comfort zone they've been used to. Whilst on Strictly people kept saying "just relax and enjoy it" which was the complete opposite of what I was and could feel so I'll avoid that one. The key is really getting along and understanding and respecting your partner. If the celebrities can do that then they'll have the best time ever.
The judges critiques can often spark debate with the celebrities - any tips?
Some of my critiques on Strictly seemed pretty harsh. I think I'll be sympathetic and understanding to what the celebrities are going through and possibly a little protective of them too.
Dancing On Ice Live Tour 2012
Torvill & Dean's UK Tour Starts In April For An Incredible Sixth Year
On 25th November 2011 tickets will go on general sale for Dancing on Ice The Live Tour 2012 (priority sale from 23rd November). After wowing more than a million people across the country in previous years with stunning ice performances, skating legends Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean will headline the sixth live UK tour of Dancing on Ice and lead an all-star celebrity line-up to arenas across the country, starting on Friday 13th April 2012 in Newcastle.
All of the celebrities will be trained and choreographed by Torvill & Dean, who will also perform on the tour. The celebrity line-up will be announced soon, together with the panel of rink-side judges who will critique their performances.
The three-and-a-half week UK tour will travel to arenas in Newcastle, London, Manchester, Nottingham, Sheffield, Birmingham, Liverpool and Glasgow. At each performance the audience can vote for their favourite celebrity skater. Using the same format as the hit ITV1 show, spectators can use their mobile phones to text vote for their favourite celebrity. Audience votes will then be added to scores from the judges to decide the overall celebrity winner. The winning couple then take to the ice for a magical finale performance. As with previous tours, all profits from text voting will go to charity. An impressive £106,475 has been raised to date and has been donated to the Royal London Society For The Blind and Demelza Hospice Care for Children.
This year the Dancing On Ice Tour has started the DOI Super Fan initiative where ticket holders will be given a web address through which they can upload their name and image. Their name will then appear in the tour programme and their photo will form part of a unique tour poster for the show!
A DVD of the 2011 tour has been released by NBC Universal, priced £19.99. It captures the entire live arena experience featuring a full length show filmed during last year's tour. As well as stunning live performances from ice legends Torvill & Dean, there are also routines from the 2011 Dancing on Ice winner, EastEnders actor, Sam Attwater.
The seventh series of Dancing on Ice starts on ITV1 in January 2012.
Dancing On Ice Tour 2012
13-15 April - Newcastle: Metro Radio Arena 0844 493 6666
(Friday 13th at 7.30pm, Saturday 14th at 2.30pm & 7.30pm, Sunday 15th at 1.30pm)
17 April - London: Wembley Arena 0844 815 0815
(Tuesday 17th at 4.30pm and 8.00pm)
18-19 April - Manchester: Evening News Arena 0844 847 8000
(Wednesday 18th at 7.30pm, Thursday 19th at 7.30pm)
20-22 April - Nottingham: Capital FM Arena 0844 412 4624
(Friday 20th at 7.30pm, Saturday 21st at 2.30pm & 7.30pm, Sunday 22nd at 1.30pm)
24-26 April - Sheffield: Motorpoint Arena 0114 256 5656
(Tuesday 24th at 7.30pm, Wednesday 25th April at 7.30pm, Thursday 26th April at 7.30pm)
27-29 April - Birmingham: NIA 0844 338 8000
(Friday 27th at 7.30pm, Saturday 28th at 2.30pm & 7.30pm, Sunday 29th at 1.30pm)
1-2 May - Liverpool: Echo Arena 0844 800 0400
(Tuesday 1st May at 7.30pm, Wednesday 2nd May at 2.30pm and 7.30pm)
4-7 May - Glasgow: SECC 0844 395 4000
(Friday 4th May at 7.30pm, Saturday 5th May at 2.30pm &7.30pm, Sunday 6th May at 1.30pm & 6.30pm, Monday 7th May at 2.30pm)
To book tickets please contact the venue or call 08444 99 99 55.
For online bookings please visit www.ticketzone.co.uk or for more information please visit http://www.dancingonicetour.co.uk/
Tickets will be going on general sale from 9am on 25th November 2011.
(Tickets will be going on sale from 9am on 23rd November for O2 pre-sale tickets, 9am on 24th November for Live Nation, past bookers, DOI Website Registrants & venue pre-sales)
Ticket Prices:
Ice Side: £67.50 (Saturday evening) / £57.50 (all other performances) All Other Tickets: £42.50 and £32.50
Family Ticket Offer - Available until 31 December 2011 (subject to availability)
2 adults and 2 children under 14years old (must be under 14years on the date of the show)
Not available on any rink-side premium seats.
£125 in the £42.50 seats and £90 in the £32.50 seats
Pensioner Ticket Offer -Subject To Availability
Half price on £42.50(£21.25) and £32.50 tickets (£16.25)for matinee performances
Group Bookings - Subject To Availability
1 in 10 tickets free (in £42.50 and £32.50 price bracket only). Available for all shows EXCEPT Saturday performances.
Booking offer - Subject To Availability.
Available through Ticketzone. Buy your ticket by midnight on 4th December 2011 and pay £10 now and the balance on 29th February 2012. Please note remaining payment will be taken automatically on 29th February 2012.
Dancing on Ice...Personalised Gifts
A must for every fan or would be Torvill and Dean...their very own, personalised Dancing on Ice goodies.
Whether it's a mug, poster or notebook or even their own spoof front page - you can make your friends and family a skating celebrity at their own desk or breakfast table!
Personalise the only officially licensed Dancing on Ice mug with ANY NAME and BEVERAGE and sip your favourite drink in style, be it a lovely cuppa at home or a steaming mug of hot chocolate rink-side. This mug demands the attention of any keen viewer of the acclaimed celebrity ice skating show!
Personalise your Mug - RRP £9.99
For the full range of personalised Dancing on Ice gifts go to
http://www.gonedigging.co.uk/dancing-on-ice-personalised-gifts/
Or for dazzling dress up outfits for the little skater in your life, go to
http://www.itv.com/shop/im-a-celebrity
The show that sprinkles a touch of glitz and glamour to the cold winter months, returns to our screens and unwraps a bevy of well known stars, dazzling costumes and a host of twists and turns both on and off the ice.
The celebrities taking part in the 2012 series are: Dallas icon Charlene Tilton, Hollywood actor Corey Feldman, Sugababe Heidi Range, singer Chesney Hawkes, actress Laila Morse, diet and fitness guru Rosemary Conley, children's TV presenter Sam Nixon, actress Jennifer Ellison, TV presenter Andy Akinwolere, Emmerdale actor Matthew Wolfenden, Hollyoaks star Jorgie Porter, founder of freerunning Sébastien Foucan, Britain's top female skier Chemmy Alcott, and children TV presenter Mark Rhodes and Coronation Street star Andy Whyment.
The new series will be filmed live at Elstree studios and sees the skating stars compete each week to perform the specially choreographed routines live in the studio.
Phillip Schofield and new co-host Christine Bleakley will be rink side to present the 7th series and unveil an all new Ice Panel. Returning Head Judge Robin Cousins will be joined by double Olympic champion Katarina Witt and acclaimed chorographer Louie Spence who they will be ready and waiting to deliver their verdicts. Head coach Karen Barber returns to offer her expertise and support to the show's celebrity skaters.
Following in the footsteps of previous winners Sam Attwater, Hayley Tamaddon Ray Quinn, Suzanne Shaw, Kyran Bracken and Gaynor Faye, our skating stars will battle it out to win the approval of the all important judges, capture the hearts of the nation, and compete for the title of Dancing on Ice Champion 2012.
The series that introduced spectacular moves including the headbanger, will see our famous novices hoping to impress the voting public with their skating skills but who will be the first to fall over? Who will attempt some of the trickier manoeuvres and will anyone fall foul to injury?
Dancing On Ice is an ITV Studios production for ITV1. The series was commissioned by Elaine Bedell, Director of Entertainment and Comedy at ITV and Layla Smith, Controller of Entertainment at ITV. It is Executive Produced by Glenn Coomber and Katie Rawcliffe at ITV Studios.
Exclusive show previews and ice extras at www.itv.com/ice
Dancing On Ice website: Join the judging panel on your iPhone!
Keep up with all the sequins, spins, frills and spills from the rink at the www.itv.com/ice website - and on your iPhone.
We'll bring you the latest Dancing On Ice news, views and highlights - while skating legends Torvill & Dean will be giving us the hottest gossip from the training rink and a preview of what's coming up in the show.
Naturally, we'll have all the live skating performances, those all-important judges' comments and an exclusive chat with the latest star to be voted off the show.
The Ice Panel will also give us their take on the action, as we replay their highlights and get their full candid commentary on the major talking points on and off the ice!
This year, your views matter more than ever, as you can now also play along for fun and score every dance as they happen on the website or using our sparkling new Dancing On Ice iPhone app. Once you've watched your favourite performances, share your score with your friends on Facebook and Twitter.
You can also watch all their exclusive videos clips on your phone, too. So you can keep up with all the action wherever and whenever you want.
Louie Spence and Katarina Witt join the ice panel on the new series of Dancing On Ice.
TV personality and chorographer Louie Spence and two-time champion figure skater Katarina Witt will be joining resident Head Judge Robin Cousins on the ice panel when the show returns in the New Year.
Head coach Karen Barber returns to offer her expertise and support to the show's celebrity skaters.
Acclaimed chorographer Louie will draw on his wealth of experience in dance and choreography to offer his critique on the celebrities' performances. Currently the artistic director at Pineapple studios, Louie has worked with some of the world's biggest stars including Kylie Minogue, Robbie Williams and Mariah Carey, before becoming a household name with the observational series based at internationally renowned Pineapple Dance Studios.
An original member of the award winning cast of Miss Saigon, he earned the coveted title of Primo Ballerino and danced with stars including Whitney Houston and Tina Turner. In 2008 Louie was one of the trio of judges on the successful NBC prime-time show Celebrity Circus and was voted as one of the top ten reality show judges in America.
Katarina Witt dominated figure skating for over a decade winning a legion of medals and making her one of the most successful figure skaters of all time. She won Olympic Golds in both the 1984 Sarajevo (the same year as Torvill and Dean's legendary Bolero gold medal win) and 1988 Calgary Olympics. She retains the record of most consecutive European titles, sharing it with fellow skater Sonja Henie.
After retiring from competitive skating, the former model has continued to entertain audiences appearing in Holiday on Ice, and also made the leap into acting winning an Emmy for her title role in 1990 film Carmen on Ice. She has since been inducted into the World Figure Skating Hall of Fame.
Louie Spence said: "I'm looking forward to being part of such a challenging and spectacular show and I can't wait to give my encouragement and critique on the contestants' dance and performance on the ice."
Katarina Witt said: "I can't wait to join the Dancing On Ice judging panel. As well as offering support and constructive advice to this years' celebrity skaters I'm also looking forward to working alongside my close friends Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean.
Layla Smith, Controller of Entertainment, ITV said: "We are thrilled to welcome Louie and Katarina to the new Dancing On Ice panel. The pair have a wealth of experience which they will be bringing to the new series. Their unique flare and passion for their professions will doubtless make for some interesting debates.
Dancing On Ice is an ITV Studios production for ITV1.
The Stars:
Charlene Tilton
Age: 52
Professional partner: Matt Gonzalez
My goal is to have Jayne Torvill's butt. I'm going to put a picture of her toosh on my refrigerator for inspiration!
Dallas star Charlene Tilton is looking to Jayne Torvill for more than just skating tips. The American actress is hoping to leave the series with a 'toned' skaters bottom like the Olympic legend.
The star of the '80s legendary TV series is hoping the hours of training for the new series of Dancing On Ice will help her accomplish this goal.
Charlene says, "My goal is to have Jayne Torvill's butt. I'm going to put a picture of her toosh on my refrigerator. Skaters have that bottom that's lifted and toned, it's fantastic, they all have it!"
The self confessed lifelong 'skating fan' admits that the years of being glued to the TV watching her skating heroes as a child, is now helping her master the technique on the ice.
Charlene says, "I remember as a kid, we had a black and white television. I have always been such a fan of ice skating and we loved watching it. My skating partner Matt Gonzalez and Christopher Dean have said that I've got natural ability. I think it's just because I've watched it so much growing up, I just loved it."
The actress can't wait to meet her fellow cast mates but also getting the chance to show her family, friends and viewers at home what she can do on the ice!
She says, "I'm just really excited to meet the rest of the cast. When you are in a situation like this you make friends for life. It's such an intense experience. I'm also looking forward to surprising some people with what I can do. When you get to my age, it just comes to show what you can do. With concentration and hard work you can accomplish things, it all boils down to 'hard work pays off'."
She continues, "I'm very disciplined and when you fall you have got to get back on that horse!"
Known for her portrayal of the feisty Lucy Ewing, Charlene admits that she has to learn to toughen up but is enjoying the challenge.
She says, "I do have to toughen up I don't like the cold and I'm a big sissy! I'm not a physical, athletic person at all, so this is really out of my comfort zone."
She continues, "I have never done any sports and I am so un-athletic. I do not have the mindset of a competitor or the mind set to learn a sport or be physically active like that. I am as diligent as I am when it comes to rehearsing for a play or a television show and I'll just apply that work ethic to this!"
Chemmy Alcott
Age: 29
Professional partner: Sean Rice
I love to dance, I'm very uninhibited. I'm one of these people who hit the clubs, dancing wildly, and you're like 'Good on her, lets not copy it though!
She may have tackled some of the toughest slopes in the world but sportswoman Chemmy Alcott admits that she is having the time of her life learning a new skill for Dancing On Ice.
As Britain's number one skier for a record seven years, Chemmy admits that she has found a new passion in ice skating and it's helping her rehabilitation since recent skiing accident.
Chemmy said, "I have this massive opportunity with Dancing On Ice to do something that is going to help me get into the right state with my leg and with my sport and with my head. It's just amazing and I'm so grateful. The first few skating sessions that I did, the coach would say 'on your right leg, which is the one I broke, 'go on your outside edge'. It would take me 10 meters to make that connection from my head to my leg. If I was doing that in a skiing situation, downhill, that would have been disastrous. That's why I can't bounce back and do my racing straight away; I don't have that body control any more."
She continued, "This is teaching me to do it in a safe environment. I didn't realise I was going to find it tough with my leg. I've been doing rehab for the last eight months, and it hasn't been sports specific, it's just been labouring rehab. But being able to take part in Dancing On Ice has been an eye opener I worry because if I hadn't of done this, I would have rushed back to skiing and I would have not been ready."
The professional skier admits that whilst her sporting background helped at the start of her training it's now become a hindrance.
Chemmy says, "When I was a very beginner it was helpful because I had the discipline to know where my body was, but now that I'm getting better it's a huge hindrance because I have trained my body for 28 years, getting into a certain position. For instance I look out of the circle when I'm ice skating, so when I'm skiing I put all my pressure, and my body leans over but I have to do the exact opposite for ice skating and my body pattern doesn't work that way."
As the tallest female in the competition this year, Chemmy admits she was relieved to be paired with Sean Rice who is 6ft 2.
Chemmy said, "We've start doing the lifts which are massively exciting. To be honest Sean does a huge amount of work, because the forces are all over the shop when you're dancing with me, and he has to hold all of that. They can do that, that's why you get the professionals.
She added," I love practising lifts but I do get a little bit dizzy after the spirals and stuff. One of my best abilities is to be able to trust people, whether that's financially, emotionally, when I go into things I go 100%. I never hold anything back. I feel guilty a little bit because I see him working extremely hard, I'm like 'I'm sorry, I shouldn't have had that curry last night!'
Chemmy is hopeful she will be able to make the transition from the slopes to performing a choreographed routine.
She says, "I love to dance, I'm very uninhibited. I'm one of these people who hit the clubs, dancing wildly, and you're like 'Good on her, let's not copy it though.'
Chemmy continues, I saw Jennifer Ellison the other day and she just looks beautiful on the ice. After watching Jennifer I was like 'my God, I need to work harder!' Although I don't know how to work harder because I'm working as hard as I can go!"
Heidi Range
Age: 28
Professional partner: Sylvain Longchambon
I'm still going to the gym. I went after my first costume fitting because I thought 'you're going to be in lycra on HD TV!
Sugababes singer Heidi Range admits that she'll be glad when the nerves she is experiencing whilst training for Dancing On Ice become a thing of the past.
Having performed at some of the UK's biggest music venues, the pop star admits she really is feeling nervous about her first performance.
Heidi says "I'd love to get to the stage where I'm performing and enjoying it, rather than just feeling nervous. Its great now that we're at Elstree more and we keep bumping into everyone, it's really nice, it's like a little gang now and I'm enjoying getting to know everyone. I've had the chance to spend time with Jennifer Ellison and Jorgie Porter which was really nice."
Heidi continues, "My friends and family are so excited. I've got a list of people asking if they can come and watch! Even when I'm training my friends keep coming to watch us and they want to make banners and t shirts!"
The singer admits that she has already noticed a change in her body shape as she embarks on the strenuous training sessions for the series.
Heidi said, "I've found that to help with the skating its good to work on your core. For a number of the moves, you have to hold yourself from the stomach. Your stomach muscles have to be strong. I've got aches in random areas that I never knew I'd have an ache in.
She continues, "I'm still going to the gym. I went after my first costume fitting I thought 'you're in lycra on HD TV'! Since training for Dancing On Ice I have noticed my body changing shape slightly. My legs and my bottom seem more toned which is good!"
Paired with professional skater Sylvain, the singer says she's trying not to think about the competitiveness and is focussing on mastering her own routine.
Heidi says, "I saw Sebastian Foucan the other day and he's really good. I don't really like watching the others as I don't want them to feel uncomfortable! I'd like to stay in the show for as long as possible. I'd really like to be there for a while to do different routines. It would be such a shame to do all this training, do the first show and go home!
She continues, "Sylvain is such a nice fella. He pushes me but not in an aggressive way. He'll be tough with me and then be like 'right do it on your own now'. I do the moves with him and I've got no weight on him, but it's just the fact I know he's there if I was going to fall! It's a confidence thing."
Jennifer Ellison
Age: 28
Skating partner: Daniel Whiston
I couldn't cook when I went into Hell's Kitchen and I did pretty well at that. I just need to learn to skate and I will be OK.
Actress and self confessed Dancing On Ice fan, Jennifer Ellison is thrilled to be taking part in the new series.
The actress reveals that she and her family have watched previous series and it was her mum that convinced her to take part.
Jennifer says, "As a family Dancing on Ice is something that we all love. Every year we all sit there on the sofa and watch it. I'm always saying 'I'd love to do that one year', and my mum is always saying you should but my husband is like 'no, no she will break every bone in her body and lose her teeth!'"
She continued, "Having a dance background (to me) Torvill and Dean are icons. I remember when I was doing a modern dance championship and my mum copied one of the costumes that Jayne wore a year after the Bolero. My version didn't look very good but I thought it was fabulous."
The mum of one is relishing the challenge and says the show is helping regain her fitness.
Jennifer says, "It's a huge personal challenge because I seem to have just been a mum for and I've loved every minute of it. It's funny because I've said to myself I need to get back into work."
She continues, "I used to be very sporty but since having a baby that's kind of all gone and I haven't really been to the gym for a long time. I'm literally starting from scratch, fitness wise. I have put myself on a diet and I'm going to go to the gym. It's a big massive thing personally for me, it's not just about doing a show.
The actress admits that the one thing she is most looking forward to is dressing up each week in the skating costumes.
Jennifer says, "I am really looking forward to the costumes. I think that's one of the best parts about the show when you watch each week and you see somebody come out and you can see what they are wearing. I'm going to look like a human Girl's World or Barbie Doll!"
She continues, "I'm looking forward to learning to ice skate, putting the hours in and trying my best and seeing what results I get. I couldn't cook when I went into Hell's Kitchen and I did pretty well at that. I just need to learn to skate and I will be OK."
Jorgie Porter
Age: 23
Professional partner: Matt Evers
Forget the headbanger. We've already practised lifts scarier than that!
Hollyoaks favourite Jorgie Porter has unleashed her inner dare devil and has already started learning difficult lifts as she trains for the new series of Dancing On Ice.
Paired with Matt Evers who first unveiled the legendary headbanger with partner Bonnie Langford in the first series, Jorgie admits she's not fazed by this iconic skating trick.
Jorgie says, "I want to do the headbanger, I'm not scared. We've done lifts already which I think are even scarier than that! Matt literally holds me up with one hand on my bum cheek! I think there are scarier things than the head banger. The hardest thing is getting out of the lifts as you've got to land on your foot, if you can't find your foot you're in trouble!"
She continues, "I worry about falling over on the live shows or getting the routine wrong, not being in time with the music or worst still, slapping Matt in the privates with my skates. It can happen!"
Following in the footsteps of fellow cast mates Kieron Richardson and Jennifer Metcalfe who have both appeared on previous series, the actress reveals she's been quizzing them about their time on the show.
Jorgie says, "I've been speaking to Kieron and Jen about Dancing On Ice. Kieran was like 'Oh my God you're going to love it. They've literally told me the schedules of what happens in what month and have both said that they really miss it! Jen told me not to be scared and that she would have done a lot more if she hadn't been so scared."
The actress is looking forward to all the glitz and glamour when the live shows start in the New Year.
Jorgie says, "I'm looking forward to the sequins, the make up and the hair! Also I'm enjoying learning a skill that I can do every Christmas. It's not like scuba diving where you have to go out there and find it, these rinks pop up everywhere!
She continues, "I think I did lose a little bit of weight when I first started and I've started to notice my bottom, legs and thighs are toned! I woke up one day and I had to pick up my own leg to put my pants on, I was like 'this is so painful!'"
Jorgie admits that her family are thrilled she is taking part in the series and have already designed the banner they plan to hold whilst watching in the audience.
She says, "My family can't really believe it but they're very excited and want to come and see me. They've even made a banner of support and have mentioned getting t-shirts made. My mum keeps everything so even if I get voted off, my mum will cut things out of the magazines and stick it in a folder!"
Laila Morse
Age: 66
Professional partner: Lukasz Rozycki
I can't wait! I'm looking forward to the sparkles, false eyelashes and the spray tans; we'll all skate out each Sunday looking like we've been tangoed.
Actress Laila Morse maybe the oldest contestant in the competition this series but she's looking forward to the challenge of learning a new skill.
Having watched former cast mate Danniella Westbrook take part in the series in 2010, Laila can't wait to finally meeting all of her fellow celebrities.
With training for the series underway, the popular TV actress admits she is ready to embrace the whole Dancing On Ice experience.
Laila says, "My friends and family all think I'm mad, skating at my age but it's a challenge and they did say they'll all come down so I'll have a full house in the audience!"
She continues, "I'm looking forward to being apart of the whole show and especially meeting the other celebrities. I've already bumped into Heidi Range from the Sugababes and Andy Whyment from Corrie and we were all chatting about our training."
The TV star reveals that she's not fazed by skating live on national TV but is hoping that she doesn't fall over.
Laila says, "My only worry is if I make mistakes, fall over or trip up. But I'm not thinking about that I'm just going to try and enjoy it. Skating is a lot harder; the professionals make it look so easy!"
As the live shows are fast approaching, Laila is ready to embrace the daring costumes and sparkle associated with the show.
Laila says, "I can't wait for all of it, the sparkles, false eyelashes and tans; It's like being pampered! We'll be skating out each Sunday looking like we've been tangoed!"
Laila is teamed with professional skater Lukasz Rozycki and the pair are already forging a strong partnership.
She says, "(Lukasz) is a really nice guy and we get on well. He knows my limitations which helps!
Laila continues, "I remember watching Jayne and Chris performing the Bolero. They are fabulous skaters. It was lovely to watch."
Rosemary Conley
Age: 64
Professional partner: Mark Hanretty
Dancing On Ice has made me feel like I'm 25 again! My husband has said he's never seen me so happy in the 28 years that we've been together!
Diet and fitness guru Rosemary Conley admits she's having the time of her life rehearsing for the new series of Dancing On Ice, so much so her husband has commented that he's never seen her so happy.
Partnered with professional skater, Mark Hanretty, Rosemary brings them both pack lunches to ensure they are eating the right foods before training.
Rosemary says, "The only healthy thing that I'm doing is eating more which I can with all the exercising I am doing. I take Mark's lunch everyday because I want to make sure that he is going to be well looked after. So while I'm packing my own lunch, I'm packing his as well."
She continues, "To be honest I'm not suffering with any aches and pains. I always do my stretches afterwards and we always warm up carefully and Mark is very thorough with his tuition and his discipline, how to look after us and so on. I just want to get to January in one piece. I've been on the ceiling with excitement since I started training; my husband has said he's never seen me so happy in the 28 years that we've been together!"
Rosemary reveals that she was at first intimated when she met skating legends Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean.
She says, "It's almost like you can't describe your first meeting with Torvill and Dean and it's because you've just got so much respect for them they are such unique and amazing skaters in their own right but they're just so genuinely lovely. Before the programme I was a bit intimidated by Christopher Dean, and in actual fact he's absolutely lovely. The reason I've been intimidated by him is because I've picked up over the various series that he's asked people to do things that are really quite tough and after all that he's just a hard task master but he's been totally lovely and Jayne Torvill is a joy."
Having earned huge respect for her diet and fitness advice, Rosemary admits that skating is teaching her to get into poses she never thought possible!
She says, "I'm certainly getting my body into positions I didn't know I ever could and I'm certainly bending backwards more than I thought I ever would or could!"
Rosemary continues, "I'm dreading throwing up after I've done a spin on the ice! Last week we practiced the spin but when Mark put me back down on the ice, I couldn't get up! When I got home, I couldn't eat my dinner - it took me four hours recover!
Andy Akinwolere
Age: 29
Professional partner: Maria Filippov
I'm from Africa we were born with rhythm! I'm hoping that if my hips do a little bit of wiggling, it will distract from the fact that I'm a really bad skater!
Former Blue Peter presenter Andy Akinwolere is hoping skating partner Maria Fillapov will be able to turn him into this year's Ray Quinn.
Maria won series four of Dancing On Ice with Ray in 2009 and Andy admits there is pressure, and hopes the audience will enjoy his routines.
Andy says, "I saw Ray win, he raised the bar for male contestants. There's a pressure for any male that wants to come into Dancing On Ice to give it 100 percent and guys can be competitive but in a very sly way! I just want to try stuff that takes me out of my comfort zone, I really want to put on a good show for people and hope that they can see the progress I've have made."
He continues, "I was chuffed when I first met my skating partner. Maria seeks perfection and I think that's the sort of person I need. I'm a little bit scared of her because she wants things to look good and actually it's become a respect thing which I really like. I really respect her as a person. I like her style anyway and when you see her doing the dancing it's actually dream worthy; honestly she's so fluid and her lines are brilliant."
However there is one part of the show that Andy is not looking forward to and that's the Dancing On Ice costumes.
He says, "I'm not sure I'm ready for spandex and lycra! I'm a bit worried about my bottom sticking out in lycra! I don't usually think about these things but the other day I was like, 'you've actually got quite a big ass', but we'll see; this is a whole different kettle of fish, we're talking sparkles and sequins!"
Whilst the presenter is revelling in learning a new skill, he admits it's now dominating his life and he's even practising his skating steps whilst walking down the street.
Andy says, "I'm not only dreaming about it but I'm also practising in my living room, you've got to get the points really well and you've got to get them done precisely. So if I'm standing in my living room trying to do a cross over, I'm thinking about the position of my legs and the position of my arms. I caught myself walking down the street the other day practising a few barrel rolls."
He continues, "I'm one of these people that if I do something I want to do it really well. I want to give it as much effort as possible. With Dancing on Ice you really do have to give it 100 percent, otherwise you won't see any results. I'm also really impatient with myself and that's my biggest problem. I'm learning to sit back, relax, because then I wouldn't get any results. By the end of this I would have learnt a phenomenal skill and I love learning new things"
Andy Whyment
Age: 30
Professional partner: Vicky Ogden
All the lads from Corrie have been winding me up saying 'It's going to be like bambi on ice', and then they add 'when I watch it, I'll be hoping you fall!
Coronation Street favourite Andy Whyment admits he never imagined taking part in Dancing On Ice but is feeling proud of his achievements so far even if he has to take constant mocking from his cast mates.
He says, "I'm looking forward to the whole thing. It's made me quite proud of myself. I remember watching the series last year with Steven Arnold and thinking 'they're all mad!', then this year I'm doing it! Watching Stevie last year, I would've never imagined doing it this year. It's a whirlwind, every time I get on the ice I still think I'm mad for doing it!
Andy continues, "All the lads from work have been winding me up saying 'It's going to be like bambi on ice', and then they add 'when I watch it, I'll be hoping you fall.'"
Andy admits that the first few weeks of training were tough but he's now starting to enjoy being on the ice.
Andy says, "I'm enjoying more now. I'm sure everyone is in the same predicament because when it comes to that first day, we're all out of our comfort zone. I've been putting everything I can into it because I don't want to go out there and make a fool out of myself. I always said I'd put a hundred and ten percent in and that's what I'm doing. I'm not going to be an absolutely amazing skater but I'm not going to be dreadful either!
"It's quite easy to stand up and skate around in a circle, I think most people can do that. It's when you start putting in movements, knowing what side of the blade to be on; I just find it really difficult. To be honest with you I'm quite proud of myself, because I wouldn't of thought I'd be doing half the stuff I'm doing now! The more you work on it, the better you'll get."
He continues, "We tried a new lift today, and as soon as I lifted my skating partner, I landed straight onto my bottom! It wasn't a high one, she just put her legs around my waist but I had my weight too far forward as soon as she jumped, I tried to compensate for it and went flat on my back side. I'm not scared of falling. I'd be mortified but Vicky wouldn't ask me to do anything that she didn't think I could do."
With the live shows looming Andy reveals that he's not worried about wearing the tight skating outfits but is dreading the customary spray tans.
Andy says, "I wear those tight lycra tops when I'm in training because they keep you warm, it's obviously not sequiny! I'm getting used to wearing them now so the costumes don't bother me! But I said to the production team that I'm definitely not getting a spray tan! I'm all natural! It's absolutely not happening!
The actor admits that whilst he's competitive he's not thinking about the competitive side to the show instead he's much more interested in having fun.
Andy says, "I am competitive but there's always going to be better skaters there than I am. There are always three or four really good skaters, so I won't be one of them. I'm not really looking at rivals. I just want to enjoy myself and just get the most out of it as I can."
Chesney Hawkes
Age: 40
Professional partner: Jodeyne Higgins
I'm throwing myself into it 100% percent...well as much as I can with 3 jobs and 3 kids.
Singer Chesney Hawkes admits he's not afraid to bare his chest in a skating outfits for the new series of Dancing On Ice.
With the full backing of his family, Chesney says he's ready to embrace the tight spandex outfit and has challenged the costume team to 'bring it on.'
Chesney says, "I'm trying not to think about the live shows! I guess the thing I'm most looking forward to is having my kids there. I'm really excited to see their little faces watching daddy in spandex! I had a meeting with the costume designer and he asked if there was anything I wouldn't like to wear and I was like 'No! Bring it on!' He then asked, 'so you don't mind showing a bit of breast?' and I was like 'no not at all!'
The singer revealed he was shocked to find out family friend and Britain's number one female skier Chemmy Alcott will also be taking part in the series.
He said, "Chemmy and I are mates, she's friends with my wife. Obviously we're not allowed to say anything, so my first day at the rink I saw Chemmy and I said 'what are you doing here?' and she said 'DOI, what are you doing here?', 'DOI'!
Chesney continues, "We often banter about who is going to win, Chemmy jokes that its going to be her but she doesn't realise the power of the hawk."
Chesney's biggest fear is following in the same footsteps as actor and previous Dancing On Ice contestant Todd Carty and almost have an accident live on national TV.
Chesney says, "I guess I'm dreading doing a 'Todd Carty' really and not being ready technically. I just want to be comfortable and being able to do the steps second nature. It's when you think too much is when it all goes wrong."
He continues, "The fact is we're all out of our comfort zone here, we're not professional skaters. We're all going to give it our all and our best, and if our best is not up to their standards, I'm sure we'll get judged accordingly and I'm quite happy to take anything. Plus I'll give as much as I get."
Chesney revealed that whilst he's happy with his progress on the ice so far he admits he's not quite at the standard of last year's champion, Sam Attwater.
He says, "I can skate backwards now. I think in the early stages it's about feeling every step, taking baby steps. I think I'm quite good with footwork now, but then you're posture goes out when you're thinking about one thing, which is what happens when you're learning, before it comes second nature. Unless you're a natural like Sam (Attwater) last year."
Corey Feldman
Age: 40
Professional partner: Brooke Castile
I have no fear when it comes to confrontation, being direct, being honest, upfront but when it comes to say a paper cut, I'll cry all day! I have a very low thresh hold for pain
Hollywood actor Corey Feldman admits that whilst he's excited to be taking part in the new series of Dancing On Ice his biggest fear is falling on the ice.
Star of hit films such as The Lost Boys, The Goonies and Stand By Me, Corey reveals that his biggest fear is hurting himself.
Corey says, "I have no fear when it comes to confrontation being direct, being honest, upfront but when it comes to like a paper cut I'll cry all day! I have a very low thresh hold for pain I am a little but wimpy when it comes to that stuff. I really am scared of hurting myself."
He continues, "I love the dancing part, that's the easy part because it's a part of me. Rhythm and I we're together but when it comes to being on ice that's the challenging part. Ice is a very tricky thing and I have had a skiing accident once where I broke my scapular and slipped two discs so I know that it's a very fragile thing. You can make one wrong move and you can lose control. So I know that happens, I know that's possible and that's the part I'm afraid of, the things that go beyond your control!"
Corey admits that whilst he's enjoying the chance to learn a new skill, he's approaching his training with some trepidation.
He says, "I would love to impress myself. I would be so amazed if I come out of this having this brand new gift, this brand new skill, which I think is possible or I wouldn't be here. However I also think it's quite possible I will fail miserably and end up flat on my face!"
Corey continues, "I'm excited, I'm looking forward to the opportunity and the challenge. I want to make sure I do a good job and I don't screw up. I think the key for me is not too be too over confident and not to expect too much out of myself and just take it slow. This is going to be a big learning curve for me, so in the beginning all I want to do is patiently observe and learn and try things in a very slow building process so that I really soak it all in and do the best that I can."
The American star is looking forward to spending time in the UK and admits that one of the reasons for doing the show was for his UK based fans.
Corey says, "There's a lot of reasons why I want to be here, number one first and foremost this is for the British fans because I know they will love the opportunity to have me around, close in the vicinity where they can actually come and be a part if it."
He continues, "I'm really excited about the idea that I get to spend a long period of time in England because I love it so much the culture, the music, the fashion."
A self confessed 'workaholic' Corey says he's hoping the judge's critiques won't be too harsh!
Corey says, "I am very sensitive so hopefully the judges won't be too mean. I'm very driven, very motivated and if anybody's going to put the pressure on its going to be me doing it to myself. I'm a very hard worker, I'm a workaholic I work best under pressure, I need to focus I have so much energy brewing inside me that I really have to take it and focus it otherwise its all over the universe."
Mark Rhodes
Age: 30
Professional partner: Frankie
Sam Nixon would be lying if he didn't admit that we both want to out do each other!
Children's TV presenter Mark Rhodes is getting ready to step out with a new partner, Frankie Poultney when he steps onto the ice for the new series' of hit entertainment show Dancing On Ice.
Viewers will see Mark and TV partner Sam Nixon, who have been presenting together for nearly a decade, competing against each other for the first time since their first they met Pop Idol back in 2003.
Mark says, "It's really weird because me and Sam have crossed paths when starting a session and we're like talking to each other in code as its secret at the moment. We've not been in competition with each other since Pop Idol years ago so it's a bit odd! Whilst we will be supporting each other, Sam would be lying if he said we both want to out do each other!"
He continues, "I think Andy from Blue Peter is going to do really well because he's a fit lad; I've played football with him a lot. Heidi from the Sugababes looks athletic and I've seen her practising and she's really good. I don't think I want to watch anyone else do it because it makes me more nervous!"
Mark admits he's already noticing a change in his physique since he started rehearsals for the series.
He says, "I've lost about six pounds, it's amazing! The thing is you use muscles that you never ever thought you had and it's just so hard on those muscles that you've not used before. I'm used to playing football, but it's a completely different sport and it's completely different muscles that you're using. You do get a bit achy, but it's good for fitness definitely; It's the best fitness slavery I've ever had!"
He continues, "I've been stocking up on the carbs, but I always used to do that anyway before I started training for Dancing On Ice but I have cut out a lot of alcohol because dehydrates you and I've been having more water. I've been going to the toilet every five minutes!"
With the live shows starting in the New Year, Mark admits that he's nervous about stepping onto the ice in front of an audience.
Sam says, "I'm not dreading the outfits because as children's television presenters this is will be bland in comparison! I'm nervous about that first routine. When they call out our name and you skate onto the ice, all that hard work for just a one minute routine, with millions of people watching the show I don't want to make a fool of myself! If I am lucky enough to stay in after that first performance I think I'll be a little bit more chilled to the whole magnitude of the event!"
He continues, "Ice skating is the hardest sport I've ever tried and will ever try! Sam and I have done some crazy stuff for cameras like synchronized swimming! But I've got so much respect for the professionals that make it look easy because it's one of the hardest disciplines that I've ever seen. To make it look easy, you've got to put in so much graft!"
Matthew Wolfenden
Age: 30
Professional partner: Nina Ulanova
"I'm quite looking forward to the outfits! I'm going to be proper blinged up! The lads down the pub will take the mickey but they all want tickets!"
Emmerdale actor Matthew Wolfenden admits he's feeling the pressure as he attempts to follow in the footsteps of former Dancing On Ice winner and fellow soap colleague Hayley Tamaddon.
Convinced to take part in the series by fiancée and fellow Emmerdale actress Charley Webb, Matthew says as the first male from the soap to appear he's got 'a lot to live up to.'
He says, "My fiancée Charley is a massive fan of Dancing On Ice and has said for the last few years that I should give it a bash but I've always chickened out. It was Charley who pushed me in the right direction, and I'm glad she did because I'm loving it."
Matthew continues, "Training for Dancing On Ice is tiring, it's hard work. I'm training in the morning or the evening depending on which way I can fit it around my filming. There's been number of Emmerdale cast members who have taken part in Dancing On Ice but I'm the first male so I've got a lot to live up to."
Having trained as a gymnast and dancer, Matthew reveals that Dancing On Ice is pushing his fitness regime to the limits.
He says, "I've always worked out. I've gone to the gym all my life. I've grown up doing gymnastics and then I was trained as a dancer. I've enjoyed learning a new skill but since training for Dancing On Ice I have found new muscles I didn't know I had in my legs, they're absolutely killing me! Being a dancer has helped me with my upper body but it also hindered me a little, you have to use a different foot or take off slightly different than if you were dancing normally on the ground, instead of the slippery stuff."
Matthew continues, "I'm enjoying working with my skating partner Nina. Over the weeks we've been learning lifts off the ice and a few fancy tricks but it's just trying doing it with the skates on! The skates are quite heavy so its fine lifting Nina without the skates on, then you get the skates on and to be honest, the skates nearly weigh as much as she does."
Undeterred by the skating costumes, Matthew is also hoping to follow in Chris Fountain and Ray Quinn's footsteps by attempting difficult jumps on the live shows.
Matthew says, "I'm looking forward to the outfits! I'm going to be proper blinged up. The lads down the pub will take the mickey but they all want tickets."
He continues, "We've been working a lot on jumps and I'm hoping, if I'm lucky enough to stay in that I will be able to attempt an axel at some point in the competition. I'm a bit nervous about trying the head banger it looks ridiculously scary, not necessarily for me but for my skating partner, Nina."
Sam Nixon
Age: 25
Professional partner: Alexandra Schauman
I've been looking at clips of Ray Quinn performing on Dancing On Ice which is stupid because there's no way I'm going to be anywhere near as good as that!
Children's TV presenter Sam Nixon admits he's been watching recordings of former Dancing On Ice champion Ray Quinn's performances on the show for inspiration as he prepares to take to the ice in the new series.
Viewers will see Sam competing against his TV partner Mark Rhodes as they prepare to go head to head on the show.
Sam says, "I've watched previous series of Dancing On Ice but since taking part I've been watching clips of previous performances. I must admit Ray Quinn's the one that I've been looking at a lot, which is stupid because there's no way I'm going to be anywhere near as good as that! But it's just amazing to watch him. It does massively inspire you, he's just fantastic."
He continues, "I would love the thought of being able to leave the ice and do even just a little jump. But at the minute we've not practised jumps; I'm a million miles away from that. But the thought of me being able to do it excites me. Whether I'll be able to do it is another story. I think that would be a massive achievement for me, but at the minute I'm content with mastering the basic steps!"
With the new series starting shortly on ITV1, Sam admits he's not fazed by the bright and often daring skating costumes and training for the show has revealed a different side to his character.
Sam said, "I suppose it would be a nice little victory for both myself and Mark if one of us did better than the other. It's weird because we've have not seen each other train. We do everything together, but with this we're doing it separately; we don't know how each other are doing. I think I've realised that I'm a perfectionist, so if I'm lucky to stay in longer that one week, I think I'll want to get better and better at this!"
He continues, "At the minute I think I'm getting better as the weeks going on which is good and I just want that to carry on. If I know I've given it my best, that's what I'll look forward to the most."
The TV star reveals that whilst he's attempting to master basic skating he's nervous of learning the chorography for his first routine.
Sam says, "At the minute we're just doing the basics of skating and I think as soon as they throw in a bit of choreography I am a little nervous about that I must admit! Doing spins also terrifies me because I get so dizzy so quickly. I'm dreading the spins. Also I've got no idea what my face is going to look like because at the minute it's just full on concentration!"
Sebastian Foucan
Age: 37
Professional partner: Brianne Delcourt
Freerunning on land is very different to on ice so it's a bit early to know if I can incorporate any of my moves, for now, I am still learning the basics.
Sébastien Foucan may have founded 'freerunning' but admits learning how to skate for ITV1's Dancing On Ice has been much harder than he anticipated.
Sébastien said, "I would say ice skating is different from what I thought, it's harder and it's a difficult task, even just co-ordination and balance when you are on the ice. There's also always about five things to remember at once but I don't feel scared so am not afraid to push myself to try new things."
He continues, "Ice skating is absolutely different from what I am used to doing. The muscles we are using are different, so they are becoming more defined. I am aching a bit in places I not used to working so much, but in a good way! I'm having a great experience in the learning process and I am looking forward to the performances and meeting all the other celebrities properly.
The French star's jaw dropping skills have even made Hollywood sit up and take notice and earned him a role hit movie Casino Royale alongside Daniel Craig and Sébastien's hoping he can bring his unique blend of skill and flair to the ice.
He said, "I know it is a competition but I am here to challenge myself. It's like nothing I have done before so it's hard to know how well I will compare to the other celebrity skaters. My aim is to be a good ice skater and work perfectly with my partner as one and if we can amaze people by our performance that would be great. I see it more as an art form and that is why I love it and I really want to do a really beautiful performance on the ice!
Teamed with skating professional Brianne Delcourt, who won the competition last year with Sam Attwater, Sébastien admits he's feeling the pressure to repeat her success.
He said, "Brianne won last series with a great partner (Sam Attwater) and I know they worked really hard so there's a lot to live up to. I just want to do my very best, for her too.
"I put a lot of pressure on myself. I am really amazed by Brianne's skill, she is an incredible skater and I want to do better all the time. Even though I haven't known her for very long we are getting on well. I know its all part of the show and performance but I hope I will not look ridiculous in the costumes! I don't want to leave the show too early either, so I could say I am dreading the time when we get voted off!"
Q&A with Hosts Philip Schofield and Christine Bleakley:-
Philip Schofield
What has been your favourite moment?
For me it was Tony Gubba's commentary, after Todd Carty had spun out of control. Tony Gubba is a very serious sports commentator and it was his commentary that was funny, as he only just held it together. Todd was very funny but it was the fact that Tony nearly lost it that made me laugh even more!
What has been your stand out performance from any series?
Vanilla Ice skating to his own song, Ice Ice Baby last series. He just made me laugh and smile and the madness of having Vanilla ice skate to his own song!
Tell us a little secret about filming for Dancing on Ice?
Weirdly, I have to pull my socks up before we go up the steps, and out on the opening of the show. You can guarantee by the time the announcer is saying ladies and gentleman please welcome your hosts I'm pulling up my socks.
Christine Bleakley will be presenting alongside you on this series plus Katarina Witt and Louie Spence are joining the judging panel what would be your advice to them about being a part of the show?
Enjoy it, be yourself and be honest.
We're now on series seven of Dancing On Ice does it surprise you with how popular the series has remained with the British public?
Yes and I don't think there is any better antidote to freezing cold evenings. It's great as it sees us all the way through the winter. It's a big family show where you have the glamour; showbiz; campness and the jeopardy. What's great is it's a show that you can sit down and watch with the whole family, and everybody has got a favourite. I think there is no better way to spend your winter evenings.
Christine Bleakley
You will be hosting Dancing on Ice along side Phillip Schofield, what are you most looking forward too and why?
I'm looking forward to absolutely every aspect. Working alongside the Ice King Phillip Schofield and the legends that are Torvill and Dean are obvious highlights but the show is one of my favourites and I can't quite believe I'm going to be part of it.
Have you seen the show before? What has been your stand out performance from any series or favourite celebrity ice skater?
I've watched every series and love it. I really enjoyed Hayley Tamaddon and Ray Quinn's performances but we always need a bit of loveable comedy and Todd Carty always provided us with that.
Have you ever ice skated, and if so how good are you on the ice?
I've skated maybe three times in my life and was utterly useless. Fear takes over and I visualise all the potential injuries I might inflict.
Having appeared on Strictly Come Dancing do you have any tips for the celebrities who will be stepping out of their comfort zone?
I will completely understand how they feel. It is a nerve wrecking experience doing any kind of performance you're not use to but by adding skates and potential injuries the celebrities will be outside of any comfort zone they've been used to. Whilst on Strictly people kept saying "just relax and enjoy it" which was the complete opposite of what I was and could feel so I'll avoid that one. The key is really getting along and understanding and respecting your partner. If the celebrities can do that then they'll have the best time ever.
The judges critiques can often spark debate with the celebrities - any tips?
Some of my critiques on Strictly seemed pretty harsh. I think I'll be sympathetic and understanding to what the celebrities are going through and possibly a little protective of them too.
Dancing On Ice Live Tour 2012
Torvill & Dean's UK Tour Starts In April For An Incredible Sixth Year
On 25th November 2011 tickets will go on general sale for Dancing on Ice The Live Tour 2012 (priority sale from 23rd November). After wowing more than a million people across the country in previous years with stunning ice performances, skating legends Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean will headline the sixth live UK tour of Dancing on Ice and lead an all-star celebrity line-up to arenas across the country, starting on Friday 13th April 2012 in Newcastle.
All of the celebrities will be trained and choreographed by Torvill & Dean, who will also perform on the tour. The celebrity line-up will be announced soon, together with the panel of rink-side judges who will critique their performances.
The three-and-a-half week UK tour will travel to arenas in Newcastle, London, Manchester, Nottingham, Sheffield, Birmingham, Liverpool and Glasgow. At each performance the audience can vote for their favourite celebrity skater. Using the same format as the hit ITV1 show, spectators can use their mobile phones to text vote for their favourite celebrity. Audience votes will then be added to scores from the judges to decide the overall celebrity winner. The winning couple then take to the ice for a magical finale performance. As with previous tours, all profits from text voting will go to charity. An impressive £106,475 has been raised to date and has been donated to the Royal London Society For The Blind and Demelza Hospice Care for Children.
This year the Dancing On Ice Tour has started the DOI Super Fan initiative where ticket holders will be given a web address through which they can upload their name and image. Their name will then appear in the tour programme and their photo will form part of a unique tour poster for the show!
A DVD of the 2011 tour has been released by NBC Universal, priced £19.99. It captures the entire live arena experience featuring a full length show filmed during last year's tour. As well as stunning live performances from ice legends Torvill & Dean, there are also routines from the 2011 Dancing on Ice winner, EastEnders actor, Sam Attwater.
The seventh series of Dancing on Ice starts on ITV1 in January 2012.
Dancing On Ice Tour 2012
13-15 April - Newcastle: Metro Radio Arena 0844 493 6666
(Friday 13th at 7.30pm, Saturday 14th at 2.30pm & 7.30pm, Sunday 15th at 1.30pm)
17 April - London: Wembley Arena 0844 815 0815
(Tuesday 17th at 4.30pm and 8.00pm)
18-19 April - Manchester: Evening News Arena 0844 847 8000
(Wednesday 18th at 7.30pm, Thursday 19th at 7.30pm)
20-22 April - Nottingham: Capital FM Arena 0844 412 4624
(Friday 20th at 7.30pm, Saturday 21st at 2.30pm & 7.30pm, Sunday 22nd at 1.30pm)
24-26 April - Sheffield: Motorpoint Arena 0114 256 5656
(Tuesday 24th at 7.30pm, Wednesday 25th April at 7.30pm, Thursday 26th April at 7.30pm)
27-29 April - Birmingham: NIA 0844 338 8000
(Friday 27th at 7.30pm, Saturday 28th at 2.30pm & 7.30pm, Sunday 29th at 1.30pm)
1-2 May - Liverpool: Echo Arena 0844 800 0400
(Tuesday 1st May at 7.30pm, Wednesday 2nd May at 2.30pm and 7.30pm)
4-7 May - Glasgow: SECC 0844 395 4000
(Friday 4th May at 7.30pm, Saturday 5th May at 2.30pm &7.30pm, Sunday 6th May at 1.30pm & 6.30pm, Monday 7th May at 2.30pm)
To book tickets please contact the venue or call 08444 99 99 55.
For online bookings please visit www.ticketzone.co.uk or for more information please visit http://www.dancingonicetour.co.uk/
Tickets will be going on general sale from 9am on 25th November 2011.
(Tickets will be going on sale from 9am on 23rd November for O2 pre-sale tickets, 9am on 24th November for Live Nation, past bookers, DOI Website Registrants & venue pre-sales)
Ticket Prices:
Ice Side: £67.50 (Saturday evening) / £57.50 (all other performances) All Other Tickets: £42.50 and £32.50
Family Ticket Offer - Available until 31 December 2011 (subject to availability)
2 adults and 2 children under 14years old (must be under 14years on the date of the show)
Not available on any rink-side premium seats.
£125 in the £42.50 seats and £90 in the £32.50 seats
Pensioner Ticket Offer -Subject To Availability
Half price on £42.50(£21.25) and £32.50 tickets (£16.25)for matinee performances
Group Bookings - Subject To Availability
1 in 10 tickets free (in £42.50 and £32.50 price bracket only). Available for all shows EXCEPT Saturday performances.
Booking offer - Subject To Availability.
Available through Ticketzone. Buy your ticket by midnight on 4th December 2011 and pay £10 now and the balance on 29th February 2012. Please note remaining payment will be taken automatically on 29th February 2012.
Dancing on Ice...Personalised Gifts
A must for every fan or would be Torvill and Dean...their very own, personalised Dancing on Ice goodies.
Whether it's a mug, poster or notebook or even their own spoof front page - you can make your friends and family a skating celebrity at their own desk or breakfast table!
Personalise the only officially licensed Dancing on Ice mug with ANY NAME and BEVERAGE and sip your favourite drink in style, be it a lovely cuppa at home or a steaming mug of hot chocolate rink-side. This mug demands the attention of any keen viewer of the acclaimed celebrity ice skating show!
Personalise your Mug - RRP £9.99
For the full range of personalised Dancing on Ice gifts go to
http://www.gonedigging.co.uk/dancing-on-ice-personalised-gifts/
Or for dazzling dress up outfits for the little skater in your life, go to
http://www.itv.com/shop/im-a-celebrity
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