Festivals and Poetry

Two new Fiery Rockets Videos now live!



"The Edge" - a piece of spoken word based on a true story, by myself, Gemma Connell.

Photos by Francesca Hughes of The Big Walrus (www.bigwalrus.co.uk) and Music From Rainy Skies Magazine (www.musicfromrainyskiesmagazine.com)

An accompanying blog will follow at www.fieryrockets.blogspot.com



I reviewed the Manchester stop of the Dot-to-Dot Festival for Music From Rainy Skies (www.musicfromrainyskiesmagazine.com). Here's some footage from the bands we saw:

Patterns
Turbowolf
Wonder Villains
2:54
A Plastic Rose
Pure Love
Dog is Dead
The Drums

An accompanying blog will follow at www.fieryrockets.blogspot.com

Life on both sides of the curtain...

Three new Fiery Rockets videos now live!



A new poem, entitled "Second Frame" by myself, Gemma Connell.



The second stop in my Tour Diaries series - I talk through the Chester performance of Cheshire Dance and Walk The Plank's "The Moment When..." - a community dance and pyrotechnics spectacular that formed the finale of the Olympic Torch Celebrations in Chester on Tuesday 29th May, 2012.

My role in this project is that of Groups Coordinator - coordinating and recruiting over 10,000 dancers to be part of the project as a whole. I also served as a Stage Manager during the performance.




I reviewed BEACHED Festival in Manchester for Music from Rainy Skies (www.musicfromfrainyskiesmagazine.com) and here's a little showcase of the bands we saw that day.

They Royals
Sam Haine and The Blood Flames
Little Volcanoes
Bluebird Kid Clark
Hey Sholay
The Minx
John Ainsworth
Seeing Hester
Kid British
The Jessie Rose Trip
The Whip
The Futureheads

Accompanying blogs will follow soon at www.fieryrockets.blogspot.com

Poetry Set at Into The Light - Gemma Connell of Broken Rose Performing Arts

Broken Rose Artistic Director, Gemma Connell, performs a short poetry set as part of Into The Light, (22/02/2012) an event hosted by Light In the Dark Entertainment at Sandbar, Manchester.

Performing a set of brand new poems, Gemma provides her audience with an insight into different areas of the human psyche.

www.brokenrose.eu

Tour Diaries #1 - Manchester to Crewe

I've recently moved from my home in Manchester to Crewe, for career reasons. Follow my journey and explore my new house, which, as always, tells the story of my entirely crazy life!

Blog coming soon at http://www.fieryrockets.blogspot.com/

Fiery Rockets

I want to take this opportunity to thank all of my loyal followers. It's amazing to get this many views on a blog that is just about my life. However, feeling the need for a change, I have now moved to another site, under a different name, Fiery Rockets - www.fieryrockets.wordpress.com

This new vlogging site is for show tours, tattoos, travelling the world and all things performance, and the first video is below. I will still be posting Fiery Rocket videos here, as well as some Broken Rose stuff, so stay tuned if you prefer to stick with one blog site.

Much love.
CC/Fiery Rockets

#ManchesterRiots

At 5:30pm 300 people in hoodies and balaclavas ran up towards the arndale in Manchester. Shops immediately closed and locked their shutters (some trapping people in) and everyone on Market Street turned on their heels and fled in the opposite direction.

I ran back to my office and hid out there. Suddenly they were all over the roadthere and I watched 7 tactical units chase them. Two police helicopters are currently in the sky over Manchester and I'm glad to say that one appears to be looking over my flat. Two police cars went past my flat in the space of 15 mins. Everyone on the streets is looking suspiciously at each other. No one trusts anyone.

Kudos go out to the Greater Manchester Police who were on the scene just seconds after I started running and are now all over the city. I have never felt so scared in my own city before. I wish the press would stop calling these people "protesters". My guess is that the people who launched themselves through the city centre earlier do not know the reasons for these riots and neither do they care.

What on earth is this world coming to?

CC.

Back again...

Hi Everyone,

Once again apologies for being away for so long, but I'll be back with some epic blogs soon - I have so much to share about Manchester International Festival, 24:7 Theatre Festival, Broken Rose and our first ever event at Contact Theatre, Manchester. Things are going really well.

I've also got a Ukulele, so that's fun! It's a Soprano, aiming to work my way up to a Concert Ukulele and eventually teach myself to play the guitar as well. Busy, busy, busy!

Anyways, I'll be back in a few days with some brightly coloured blogs with pics and vids for you. Until then, keep your eyes on the Broken Rose Website - www.brokenrose.eu, which we'll be launching again very soon.

Much love.
CC.

Flow!

"Flow!" The FIRST EVER Broken Rose Performing Arts event, with Manchester's Contact Theatre and Manchester Literature Festival - http://www.contactmcr.com/whats-on/987-mlf11-flow/ - it's just a teaser... more coming soon

All the world's a stage for Broken Rose...

As some of you may know, amongst many other things, I am the Artistic Director of performing arts company Broken Rose (www.brokenrose.eu). Lately, Broken Rose performance dates have been coming in thick and fast.

I will be performing a solo at the Open Mind: Face the Music event at Sandbar, Manchester on the 26th May. I should be onstage at around 10:30pm. I’m developing the concept now - in true Broken Rose style, it’s going to be something a little bit different, but more experimental than I’ve tried under the name of Broken Rose before. More information on this coming soon, so stay tuned. To see my Open Mind debut, check out the video below:





The first official Broken Rose event will take place sometime in October. Details of this event are currently embargoed, so I can’t tell you exactly what it will entail, but I will say that I’m working with some very exciting and innovative people on this project. You Rockstars will be in for one hell of a night, hopefully one that will continue regularly after this premiere event. Please keep checking the website and the twitter (www.twitter.com/brokenrosearts) and the facebook (http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=223601003&ref=ts#!/pages/Broken-Rose-Performing-Arts/120642791282372?sk=wall&filter=2) pages for updates on all Broken Rose projects and events. I truly believe that 2011 is Broken Rose’s year!

In addition to the above, an extract of my play, “Bitten” will be performed at Open Mind’s Halloween Special, again at Sandbar in Manchester on the 28th October. We will be auditioning for an actress for this show in the coming months, so stay tuned if you’d like to work with Broken Rose.

Much Love.
CC.

"Globally Busy"

Hey guys!

I know I promised that it wouldn't be so long this time... ooops! I hope this blog goes some way to explaining myself...

I've been a little on the busy side, choreographing a youth production of Romeo and Julliet for a lovely new Community Theatre company in Glossop called Theatre Peaks, as well as working towards the fabulous Music Boxes project with my beloved MIF (that's the Manchester International Festival for those new to the page!) who's banners slowly appear to be taking over the city... and it's only April... Well, I'm not complaining!

One of the most exciting things I've been to lately is the Globally Digital Launch at Contact Theatre, Manchester. Contact are renowned for doing exciting new things with performance, but the dance telepresence on this night really blew me away. Contact linked up with another theatre in New York to create a duet between two dancers who were thousands of miles away from each other. With Contact leading the way, the possibilities really are endless.

Much Love.
CC.

Miles to go - Little Miss Muffet counting down from Seven - Three - Oh...

I've had some very strange feelings about my career lately. Well, I'm not sure if strange is the right word, but they were certainly unexpected. Not so drastic, but so easy to pick up on when you've been so focused on wanting one thing and wanting it now for so long. It;s kinda hard to orientate yourself when you're being rewwarded with new opportunities left, right and centre, but are still getting things wrong at the same time.

Watching my old dance team, Street Vibe, perform in Warwick's yearly dance show, Pizzaz, last week was an interesting experience - feeling so proud of them on stage and beforehand being praised by them for being the only one to have alunched themselves into a career in the industry, straight out of university. And to watch Broken Rose beginning to chug along slowly, it should be suprising that California is at times seeming further and further away from me... But that feeling is not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, it's spuring me on, making me work even harder.

At MIF, it's obvious that although I'm doing extremely well, I still have a lot to learn, so I've been thinking lately that a course of some kind is perhaps in order.

On top of this, I have so many new ideas that I want to try out in the UK first. Here I'll make some ripples, then bring to California a tidal wave.

Come and see some evidence of the ripples I'm already making in Manchester - I'll be performing at the Greenroom at around 9pm on Saturday 5th March 2011, as part of Contact Theatre's Mixed Movement.

On top of that, check out my solo freestyle performance at the Open Mind Valentine's Special - now available as a playlist, below.



Much love.
CC.

Sonic Boom Six - Manchester Sound Control

You've gotta love a home-grown band. Especially when they're ska.

I still don't understand why so many people don't like ska; it's so happy! And yet I know quite a few people who hate it with a passion. Never ceases to amaze me...

Anyway, Manchester's Sound Control is always a great venue, a dingy attic who's floor might just cave in if the circle pit gets a little bit too rowdy, and Sonic Boom Six rocked the stage on Monday in true Manc style.

I've said this before, but there just aren't enough female vocalists around in the rock world, and SB6 provides one of the most talented I've seen. Laila's voice can be both agressive and soothing, depending on the song, and although most would expect that there isn't much variation in ska, SB6 prove that ska music can be touching in one moment and hilarious in another. And there's not enough apprieciation of that kind of thing these days...

Much love (and promises to keep up with blogging soon).
CC.

"Remember Me" at Contact Theatre, Manchester, 25/11/2010

One cannot deny Jason Crouch's talent with words. Even when I first saw his play "Remember Me" in the 24:7 Theatre Festival in 2009, I was overwhelmed by the poeticism in his script. Curious as to what changes he had made since then, I went to see a new and extended version of the play at Contact Theatre in Manchester on Thursday.

Stunning. That's what it was. "Remember Me" is the only play I have since which manages to convey, accurately and honestly, what it feels like to be completely in love with someone you know isn't right for you. Crouch's characters describe perfectly what the reality of falling in love is like and how, all though the time they spend together might appear mundane to people outside of the relationship, they are anything but to those who are involved.

The direction was equally praiseworthy, with choreography and movement that even a dancer would be envious of.

Fantastic to see another 24:7 writer going from strength to strength.

Much love.
CC.

You're the Boss

Some old cogs are turning. Some new ones too. Alongside my fabulous position of Trainee Producer, dance and writing are returning to my life in a big way, and I'm so thankful that I'm able to do all three. I truly believe that I have some very special people in my life who should take some credit for this.

I've been extremely lucky to have had a couple of rather inspiring employers in my time, who've always done all that was and is possible to make sure that my dreams come true. In fact, one of my previous employers continues to get me involved in various different opportunities, for which I am eternally grateful.

However, despite how much they have helped me over the years, one lesson which they have never neglected to teach me, is that of self sufficiency in the arts world. If you have a dream in this industry, you need to learn to be your own boss. Fast. Don't let those who run auditions get under your skin, and don't give anything to agencies until they prove that work is waiting for you. Go out there and find your niche, find your own work, and work hard at it. There are many examples of industry professionals in Manchester who do just this. Unfortunately, their hard work and passion is not always recognised.

Luckily for me, I've worked with two arts organisations in the City now, and both of them put hard work and passion on a pedastal like no other employer. Such is the heart and soul of this city.

Much love.
CC.

More than Arty-Farty

This isn't just an opportunity to learn about the arts.

Even as a permanent job, I can see how working at Manchester International Festival would be a constant learning experience. Over the past three weeks I've realised just how effective the arts can be as a pathway into learning about the rest of the world... And it's our job to make our audiences see that.

This week I've learnt about the fascinating and inspiring stories the people of Manchester have, through reading about MIF Creative's 2009 commission Procession, by Jeremy Deller. The book which was published after Deller's procession of Manchester groups through the city centre and after the exhibition which ran throughout the 2009 festival, outlines some eye-opening and heart-warming tales. One of these stories speaks of a Manchester family who hired a Jewish au pair before the second world war. Many years later, when the family found out that the young woman they had known and loved had been killed in the Holocaust, they did all they could to help the family she had left behind.

I've read a new report by the Association of British Orchestras which documents the impact of school music workshops on children and their creativity, and can lead to professional music careers in later life. The report is located here: http://abo.org.uk/user_files/ABO Publication Downloads/ABOUnlockingPotential.pdf (you'll have to copy and paste it into your browser as it's some kind of funny link with spaces in it, sorry guys!)

I've learnt that dance is now uniting with politics - the DanceVote2010 website has been launched to allow dancers to email their local MPs and invite them to events, with the long term aim of getting dance to be recognised and considered by MPs nationwide. (http://www.dancevote2010.com/)I've learn about philosophy, Plato in particular:

Leaders should appear to do very little and delegate ruthlessly; they should
listen, think and spend time dreaming about their organisations. Plato
considered contemplation to be the highest form of human activity, the aim of
life being to see life rightly, not to change the world. In our 'busy' age we
should constantly question what we are busy doing.

- Tony Heaton, Chief Executive, Shape Arts

I've learnt a lot more about science and religion too, but for various reasons I cannot yet reveal that information! All in due course bloggers, all in due course.

Much Love, loving it.
CC.

Captain America... in Manchester?

Captain America is currently being filmed in Manchester's Northern Quarter! I walked past the set the other day. It's rather strange; if I hadn't been told by a friend I don't think I would have noticed that it was there.



I would have expected excessive noise... Car chases, hearing fights... things like that. It's a comic book movie after all, but it was completely silent while I was there.

Apparently the Northern Quarter is a fave choice for Marvel-style movies, because of it's tall, and sometimes gothic-style buildings.

Funny that I never knew...

For more info, visit http://menmedia.co.uk/manchestereveningnews/news/s/1316514_captain_america_comes_to_northern_quarter

Much Marvel Love.
CC.

Northern Quarter Love

I was wandering around in Manchester's Northern Quarter today, firstly getting my lip ring and stud replaced with much more comfortable jewellery. I go to a place called "Holier than Thou", which I reccommend to anyone interested in body modification in the Manchester area. Their set up is reassuringly hospital-like, and you walk into the procedure rooms knowing that you are in very safe hands. Their eclectic collection of body jewellery is like no other. The shop is a fantastic little find, in my opinion.

My cousin was with me, getting a microdermal implant, which looked like a rather painful procedure, but at the same time fascinating watching how they attach the jewellery to the skin.

After the pain, I took my cousin to the Cocoa Emporium in Afflecks palace - a stunning cake and chocolate shop and cafe, this is a relatively new addition to Manchester's landmark attraction, Afflecks palace. They sell the most exquisite vegan cupcakes - the kind that you are too scared to eat for fear of ruining them. But my god do they taste good!

The Northern Quarter seems such an appropriate location to showcase Manchester's eclectic notions of culture. It's vibrant scene is inspired by the new generations in Manchester, and it's long been the home of burgeoning arts companies. In fact, I know that my former employers at the 24:7 Theatre Festival are looking into finding a base in that area, because it is so perfect for such revolutionary activity.

Much love.
CC.





Holier than Thou - www.thirteentwelve.com/holier/
Cocoa Emporium - www.cocoaemporium.co.uk
24:7 Theatre Festival - www.247theatrefestival.co.uk

"Manchester's got everything - except a beach"

The above quote comes from Ian Brown, and appears too have been the inspiration for a fantastic event which took place in Castlefield yesterday.

"Scruff of the Neck" are known for running music events around Manchester and Poynton, but this festival of theirs really stood out for me. The area next to the Manchester canal had been covered in sand and converted into a beach for the day, complete with deck chairs and buckets and spades. As some of Manchester's most talented musicians played on the stage at the edge of the venue, the afternoon saw children making sand castles and adults attempting the same, but using plastic pint glasses instead. Certainly a throwback to the summer festivals around the country, but it also had a huge Manchester feel to it - looking up from the sand and brightly coloured benches, you could see the northern trains and the Manchester metro switching back and forth above us. I wondered what the people on those trains could possibly thinking, seeing such a commotion going on below them...

The festival saw performances from "The Missing link, a young band whos hard riffs and impressive ballad "Now it's over" showcased their versitilty and "Silverclub" who offered an electronic alternative at this largely rock event.

I was glad to see a female guitaris in "The Tapestry", a rarity in this industry, which is something that I hope the likes of the "Jesse Rose Trip" can change. "Still City Sound's" lively riffs matched their rather lively guitarist, who managed to blow his own amp. Great to see them soldiering on regardless, the guitarist still getting into it, vigorously clapping to get the audience going. Great show guys!

Highlights of the festival included "Loaded Message" who's songs really lived up to the band's name. They teamed fantastic musical ability with great lyricisim; my personal favourite being "I'd rather be a dreamer than have now dreams". The effortless John Ainsworth filled his very short set with a celestical acoustic to sound. Absolutely stunning. Kudos also goes out "Green Vigo", a proper Manchester band. Fantastic music, which I can only describe as 'like Oasis, but happier!' Loved them!

The Quangos brought back memories of the Leeds Carling Weekend for me, being the first band to play in the dark. Definitely a festival feel. Their Noisettes cover was amazing. You can catch it in the vlog below.

Small festivals such as this are what makes Manchester such a great city. I just wish that more people would pay attention to them.

Much Love.
CC.



Disclaimer: Apologies, the band named "Bright Kicks" in the video, are in fact called "The Missing Link". Sorry guys! Confusing running order!



Above: John Ainsworth



Above: Loaded Message



Above: Green Vigo

Photos by Francesca Hughes of Original Fuse - www.originalfuse.co.uk

Baby Steps... or a huge leap... hard to tell.

Good news bloggers! I got the job! I am officially the new Trainee Producer at Manchester International Festival! I start on the 5th October and I'm so excited! I'll be Assistant Producer on 5 or 6 different events for the 2011 festival (which runs 30th June - 17th July). I cannot wait to get going. I'll be assigned a mentor, who will hopefully help me find my way through the industry, and help me with where to go once my one year placement ends. I'm hoping she might be able to give me a few pointers with regards to Broken Rose aswell.

One step closer to California :)

Much Love
CC.

Want some, Have some

I've made a pact with myself to go to more music festivals now I have the time. My Festival cherry was popped in 2006 when I went to the Carling Weekend at Leeds. Since then, I've seen dozens of gigs, but not enough festivals. I love the buzz you get at festivals. Everything's happening in one place - it's a unique feeling.

Well, starting as I mean to go on, I'm off to Rock and Respite (Manchester's Sound Control) next Sunday. LOVING that Jesse Rose Trip are playing - that girl is gonna be HUGE very soon. And of course, one of my fave ska bands, Sonic Boom Six, will be rocking the set. Can't wait for that. I will report back on that fest, of course.

For all those YouTube fans out there - get yourself over to bubzbeauty 's channel. The world's 2nd biggest make-up guru, Bubbi made a name for herself on the internet and now has an entire business based on that foundation. She is a true inspiration. Her new clothing range comes out on the 10th October... and I got dibbs on this little cutie:



P.S. Blogging is for the early hours of the morning. I've decided.

Much Love.
CC.