Marketing Birmingham City News

The Mostly Jazz Festival is back... well almost!

city_news@marketingbirmingham.com — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:10:59 GMT

The Mostly Jazz Festival is set to return on 29th, 30th June & 1st July 2012 as The Mostly Jazz, Funk & Soul Festival.

Doing exactly what it says on the tin, The Mostly Jazz, Funk & Soul Festival offers a blistering weekend of Jazz, Funk & Soul with a host of household names bringing the party atmosphere back to Moseley Park!

With the success of the festival growing each year, we are delighted to announce that BBC Radio 1’s purveyor of eclectic sounds Gilles Peterson and BBC Radio 6’s Funk & Soul Maestro Craig Charles will be returning to compere with the latter curating the Saturday Line Up. They’ll also be jumping behind the decks for sets for DJ sets in the park!

Joining Gilles Peterson on the Friday will be the genre defying Ghostpoet, cover Maestro’s Introducing who will be taking on DJ Shadow’s ‘Entroducing’ in full as well Local Tropical Dub Pioneers Troumaca and Electro Heroes Free School.

On Saturday we’ll be joined by the legendary Native New Yorkers Odyssey, Speedometer, The Atlantic Players, The Bongolian, Lack of Afro (DJ Set) & Federation Of The Disco Pimp as well as Introducing coming back to play their second show of the weekend with their take on the music of Mr. Scruff.

Sunday we will be joined by James Brown’s Trombone player and master in his own right Fred Wesley who will be joined by his long time band The New JB’s. Fred Wesley & The New JB’s will be joined by Soweto Kinch, Andy Hamilton & The Bluenotes, Husk, Steve Ajao & Birmingham Jazz Youth Ensemble.

In 2012.... There will be, once again, two stages side by side at the festival, the second of which will feature up and coming talent. As in 2011, Tony Dudley-Evans’ development agency Birmingham Jazz and Birmingham’s premier jazz & funk parlour The Yardbird will be curating the second stage, whilst Gilles Peterson’s favourite Birmingham promoters Leftfoot will be taking the reigns on Friday. Each will showcase some of their top acts so expect to see a wealth of emerging sounds.

The Line Ups for both stages will be announced gradually over the coming months but as you can see we already have some amazing artists for 2012! We’ll also be keeping you updated with further events happening in the build up to the festival!

Tickets for Mostly Jazz, Funk & Soul 2012 are now on sale via www.mostlyjazz.co.uk. To avoid booking fees there will also be the option to send in a postal form which is now available from the website. Alternatively, you can visit one of our outlets listed on our site to pick up the tickets in person.

Acclaimed chef Marcus Wareing is Aalto Restaurant inspiration

city_news@marketingbirmingham.com — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Internationally acclaimed chef Marcus Wareing is the vision behind Aalto Restaurant at Hotel La Tour Birmingham.

Marcus and his team have brought their extensive experience to help develop this stunning new restaurant which welcomes its first diners at the end of March.

Marcus is working in an advisory role, devising menu concepts and assisting with recruitment and training of the hotel's kitchen staff, as well as working in an ongoing capacity to continue to develop menus and monitor standards.

The result is an exciting new menu showcasing a modern twist on English classics.
If you're looking for something lighter, Alvar Bar is a great alternative with its inviting copper and granite-topped bar (the biggest bar top in town!) offering a great place to meet colleagues, family or friends and have a quick bite to eat.

Marcus and Alex have been busy working on great food for the coffee shop too, including a modern take on the Great British sandwich, delicious pastries and desserts.

Jane Schofield, Managing Director of Hotel La Tour, said:

"Marcus has been achieving Michelin Stars since 1997 and is well-known to the British public through his success on the BBC's Great British Menu programme, where he won the honour of cooking for the Queen at her 80th birthday banquet. He's also well known for his dedicated and perfectionist approach to cooking and hospitality, with an infectious passion for food and excellence which make him a perfect partner for Hotel La Tour.

"We're very proud that one of the brightest stars in British cooking has chosen to work with us, and we're excited to open our bookings to welcome our first diners at the end of March."

Dining at Aalto Restaurant during the first week is by invitation only - please email aalto@hotel-latour.co.uk to get your name on the exclusive list.

Can't wait until then? Go to the blog for regular updates and to read more on Jane's view of what makes a great restaurant and working with Marcus Wareing.

The Belfry extends popular stay & play breaks

city_news@marketingbirmingham.com — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

- Four-time Ryder Cup resort offers special deals into April -

Golfers visiting The Belfry can now take advantage of the resort’s special-rate ‘Stay & Play’ deals up until the end of April after the four-time Ryder Cup venue extended the period on offer.

The number of golfers from around the world that enjoyed the ‘1 night – 2 rounds’ and ‘2 nights – 3 rounds’ deals increased by 8% during 2011.

“The popularity of our ‘Stay & Play’ deals continues to grow and this hasn’t stopped even during the winter months as the courses are still in top class condition,” said Marketing Manager Vicky Stone. “As well as golf, visitors are also treated to a three-course dinner, a full English breakfast, use of the Health & Wellness Leisure Club and free entry into the Bel Air Nightclub – it really does provide the ultimate trip away.”

The ‘1 night – 2 rounds’ break is available from only £99 per golfer, while the ‘2 nights – 3rounds’ offer allows each golfer to sample all three of The Belfry’s championship courses, including the Ryder Cup Brabazon, for £230. Visitors can now also play The Brabazon and enjoy Bed & Breakfast in the hotel for £99 each until the end of April.

To find out more about The Belfry or to book a ‘Stay & Play’ break, visit www.TheBelfry.com or call 0300 500 0401.

February half term fun at Thinktank

city_news@marketingbirmingham.com — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Where can you explore deepest space, find out how doctors perform life-saving surgery and travel back in time to Birmingham’s amazing industrial past, all under one roof? Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum offers an extraordinary, fun-packed day out for all visitors. And this February half term break, there will be a whole host of events and activities for all the family to enjoy.

Every day from 13 - 17 February 2012, there will be Animal Handling sessions with Tropical Inc giving visitors the opportunity to get up close to some feathery, furry and slithery creatures. There will also be Meet the Scientist sessions where visitors can find out what is happening at the cutting edge of science and talk to the experts making it happen.

For younger visitors there is Robot Rebuild Storytelling. Someone has stolen parts from Ivor the Inventor’s robot and the kids must help find them all and get him working again.

And over at the state-of-the-art digital Planetarium there is the Earth Moon and Sun show. Join crazy Coyote on an adventure to understand lunar phases, eclipses and other astronomical puzzles.

From steam engines to intestines, Thinktank is home to thousands of fascinating artefacts and over 200 hands-on displays on science and technology from the past, present and future. Throughout the half term break, there will be a series of object handling sessions allowing visitors to get to grips with some of the museum’s most fascinating artefacts.

For more information on Thinktank and all events and activities, visit www.thinktank.ac or call 0121 202 2222.

Carp and Coarse fishing show

city_news@marketingbirmingham.com — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

There will be no carping on among anglers attending the first free entry Carp and Coarse Spectacular Show at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry.

The biggest names in the world of angling will be giving talks, there will be hundreds of new products unveiled for the first time and visitors will be given free giveaways at the two-day show on Saturday, February 18 and Sunday, February 19.

Angling legends Bob Nudd, Steve Ringer and Dean Macey will be entertaining visitors with fishy tales while in the Jaguar Exhibition Hall, carp fishermen and women will be in seventh heaven.

Many companies are showcasing their biggest ever presence with Freespirit bringing its new 200sqm stand to showcase products to carp fishermen. Maver will also have its biggest ever presence for match anglers and organisers promise there will be plenty of bargains on the stands of the vast array of retailers.

Organiser Lee Apps from Redwood Events said the show promised to be a great day out for all the family.

“This is the first Carp and Coarse Spectacular Show at the Ricoh Arena and we have pulled out all the stops to make it bigger and better than ever,” he said.

“The event is packed with the cream of angling’s manufacturers and retailers and as well as being able to hear stars from the angling and carp worlds give talks, there is the opportunity to win two holidays.

“We are delighted Bob Nudd who is a legend in the sport will be on hand to talk to visitors, which is sure to be one of the highlights.

“There will also be books, holidays, photography, fisheries and fishery management as we cover the whole angling world.

“Whether you have a massive interest in the sport or want to find out a bit more, there is plenty to keep everyone interested – this is the biggest event in carp and coarse fishing and its free!”

Chris Owen, event manager at the Ricoh Arena said it was the first time the venue had staged an angling show.

“We are expecting this to be a great family day out because angling is a sport which can be enjoyed whatever your age or background,” he said. “It is typified by the fact that Kelly Rowland, who sung at the Ricoh Arena in 2008 as part of the Radio 1 Extra live show, loves fishing.

“Holding the Carp and Coarse Spectacular Show highlights the versatility of our exhibition facilities as well as the reputation we have built over the last six years for holding niche UK-wide shows such as this.”

The first 300 visitors will receive a free DVD and 20 free goody bags including tubs of bait of children and magazines will also be handed out.

Admission and parking is free and doors will open between 9am and 5pm on Saturday, February 18 and from 9am until 4pm on Sunday, February 19. More information can be found at www.midlandsfishingshow.com

Success of Trade Only show leads to three-year contract

city_news@marketingbirmingham.com — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A record-breaking exhibition has led to the organisers of the Trade Only National Show signing a contract to stage the event at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry for the next three years.

An impressive 332 exhibitors attended the UK’s only national trade exhibition for promotional products and corporate clothing at the award-winning venue.

The sixth Trade Only show attracted 3,035 visitors and there were 1,320 exhibiting staff and attendees from 47 countries. Each year, the number of visitors has grown between 10 and 20 per cent with the unique visitor count rising by 16 per cent in 2012 compared to 2011.

Among the highlights this year was a performance by X-Factor star and television presenter Olly Murs at the British Promotional Merchandise Association annual awards dinner.

Nigel Bailey, Event Director at Trade Only Limited, said a three-year agreement had been reached with the Ricoh Arena following the success of this year’s two-day show.

“This has been our most successful national show without a doubt,” he said. “It was just fantastic to see loads of happy exhibitors and distributors, crowded stalls, full seminars and everyone enjoying themselves at the awards dinner.

“Olly Murs had a great time too! We booked him because we wanted to make a real statement and we also organised a meet and greet with Olly for a select number of guests. Olly Tweeted the next day that he had had a fantastic time at the Ricoh Arena which was great to read.

“These sorts of shows are always hard work to organise but it is a big draw for the whole industry and it makes it all worthwhile when you receive positive comments afterwards.

“We took over the entire Ricoh Arena and made full use of a link between the Jaguar Exhibition Hall and the concourse to the new downstairs exhibition halls which have been opened since we last visited.

“We had some new features this year such as a fashion show and we increased the size of the Power Sessions due to their popularity.

“We had no hesitation in signing a three-year deal because as the show has evolved over the last six years, so has the input from the Ricoh Arena management and events team.

“A key factor has been their can-do attitude and the open lines of communication with chief executive Daniel Gidney and operations director Jacky Isaac because it means we can discuss ideas and they make our suggestions become reality.”

Chris Owen, Event Manager at the Ricoh Arena, said the venue’s flexibility and central location were important ingredients for organisers of UK-wide business shows.

He said: “We are situated within a two-hour drive for 75 per cent of England’s population and around 80 per cent of Trade Only’s visitors travelled within 100 miles to attend the show.

“The proximity of an international airport and easy rail access are important too since the show organisers arranged a shuttle coach service from both to the show.

“We are delighted to have played a part in Trade Only’s growth year-on-year and joining up all the various exhibition halls has allowed them to increase their exhibitor and delegate numbers.

“The Ricoh Arena was buzzing throughout the two days.”

Macdonald Burlington celebrates Scottish steak club launch with toast to 'Rabbie' Burns

city_news@marketingbirmingham.com — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The 4-star Macdonald Burlington in Birmingham city centre recently adopted a distinctly tartan theme for the launch of its new Scottish Steak Club restaurant.

Fittingly, the 115 bedroom hotel chose ‘Rabbie’ Burns Night (26 Jan) to mark the celebration of the opening of the latest Scottish Steak Club to be offered by Macdonald Hotels & Resorts to discerning diners within its portfolio of over forty 4 and 5 star hotels across the UK.

And at the invitation of Derek McDonagh, General Manager and Amy Dixon, Sales Manager at Macdonald Burlington, over ninety leading representatives of the city’s business and cultural community attended a dinner that began with the haggis being piped into the restaurant to the tune of Piper’s Promise and Derek McDonagh offering the traditional ‘address to the haggis.’

The Scottish Steak Club dining experience reflects the food promise across Macdonald Hotels & Resorts that skilled chefs will use only the finest and freshest produce and always prepare dishes from whole, raw ingredients.

Guests enjoyed samples from the exciting new menu, including the highest quality of cuts of beef and lamb sourced from accredited Scottish farms and fish supplied and cured by award winning John Ross Jr in Aberdeen.

Howard Blow, sales manager at Birmingham Chamber of Commerce and a guest at the Scottish Steak Club opening, commented:

“I was lucky enough to be one of the very first customers of the Scottish Steak Club in the Macdonald Burlington Hotel. What a treat! I sampled a wide range of dishes from the menu and was really impressed.

"You dine in the serenity of a first floor vaulted grand Victorian room, watching the world go by below on one of Birmingham’s busiest city centre streets. It was also terrific to see Derek (McDonagh) – an Irishman, entertain us all with his address to the haggis! It was a lovely evening.”

Derek McDonagh, general manager of Macdonald Burlington Hotel, added:

“The Scottish Steak Club is the latest exciting development at Macdonald Burlington Hotel and one that will appeal to discerning diners who within a beautiful setting, seek the reassurance of being served only the finest, choicest cuts of meat and produce.

"And to celebrate the opening of the Scottish Steak Club, until 30 April 2012, Macdonald Burlington is offering patrons who pre-book their dining experience, a special 10% off dinner for up to four people. Everyone is welcome.”

The opening of the Scottish Steak Club restaurant is the latest development at the Macdonald Burlington Hotel that over the past 12 months has invested over £1 million in its bedrooms and facilities as it aims to firmly establish its reputation as Birmingham’s destination of choice for discerning leisure, business and conference guests.

www.MacdonaldHotels.co.uk/Burlington

Junior golf

city_news@marketingbirmingham.com — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 13:47:20 GMT

Youngsters wanting to learn a new hobby in 2012 have the opportunity to try out golf this February half-term at The Belfry.

Boys and girls aged between six and 17-years-old can have a go at chipping, putting and driving in the Junior Golf Academy at the venue in Wishaw, Sutton Coldfield, to which Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship winner Robert Rock has been associated with for the last six years.

The informal group lessons between February 13 and17 are run as one and two- day golf schools and provide youngsters with a good all-round knowledge of the game featuring PGA qualified tuition, equipment hire, lunch, unlimited range balls and competitions with prizes for the winners.

The two-day course, priced at £55, will start on Monday, February 13 and Tuesday, February 14 as well as Wednesday, February 15 and Thursday, February 16.

The one-day course, which costs £30, will take place every day from Monday, February 13 to Friday, February 17.

To reserve a place at the Junior Golf Academy, phone 0300 500 0405 or visit www.TheBelfry.com

Pizza classes at The Belfry

city_news@marketingbirmingham.com — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Budding young chefs are being given the chance to learn the art of pizza making during February half-term at The Belfry.

Youngsters will be able to roll up their sleeves and knead, roll and add toppings to their very own pizzas under the expert guidance of a chef at the resort in Wishaw, Sutton Coldfield.

The hour-long pizza making master classes are being held every day from Monday, February 13, to Friday, February 17, at 3pm.

The class is priced at £6.50 per child with places available to be booked in advance by phoning 01675 477087.

Places are available for free for children, aged up to 14 years, staying at The Belfry as part of a special half-term family break.

The break, which includes overnight accommodation, dinner in The Atrium, full English breakfast and use of the Health & Wellness facilities, is available from Saturday, February 11, to Sunday, February 19, at £75 per person with children staying for free when sharing an adult’s room.

For further information about the half-term family break, phone 0300 500 0405 or visit www.TheBelfry.com

Emma Johnson to join Orchestra of the Swan

city_news@marketingbirmingham.com — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

One of England's best-loved clarinet players is to perform one of the most popular works in the classical repertoire with Orchestra of the Swan next month.

Emma Johnson will be playing the Mozart Clarinet Concerto with the leading UK chamber orchestra at Town Hall Birmingham on Wednesday, March 14.

The orchestra will also be performing Mozart's Divertimento K247 and Tchaikovsky's Souvenir de Florence at the venue where it is now in its fifth year as Artists in Residence.

The same programme will be performed at the Civic Hall in Stratford-upon-Avon, where the orchestra was founded, on Tuesday, March 13 - and at both venues the audience will be able to take part in a pre-concert talk with Emma and the conductor David Curtis.

Voted BBC Young Musician of the Year in 1984 and winner of the Young Concert Artist Auditions in New York, Emma's outstanding international career as a soloist has led to performances across Europe, the USA and the Far East.

Praised by The Times as “Britain's favourite clarinettist”, she will be performing with Orchestra of the Swan with an instrument made by the English clarinet maker Peter Eaton.

Emma Johnson said: “I am looking forward to playing the Mozart Concerto with Orchestra of the Swan in my first appearances with them in Birmingham and Stratford, having last performed the work with the orchestra at St Mary's Church in Painswick seven years ago.

“I believe the Mozart Concerto is the most important work for the clarinet because it is beautifully written and so loved by audiences. It is special to me because I made my recording debut with it when I was 18 years old.”

She added: “I fully approve of Orchestra of the Swan's pre-concert discussions as it is so important that the music the audience hears is meaningful and fits into their lives.”

Emma will be coming to the Midlands after performing the Finzi Concerto with the London Festival Orchestra at The Warehouse in London on February 22, and before giving the world premiere of a new work written for her by Jonathan Dove based on the Pied Piper story with 100 young recorder players at Turner Sims in Southampton on March 28.

With more than 20 albums to her credit, Emma's new recording of the two Brahms sonatas will be released on the Nimbus label on April 30. Her recent disc on the Universal label, The Mozart Album, spent many weeks at the top of the classical charts.

Tickets for the Birmingham concert on Wednesday, March 14 at 2.30pm are available priced from £6.50 to £19.50 by calling the box office on 0121 780 3333 or visiting www.thsh.co.uk. Tickets for the Stratford concert on Tuesday, March 13 at 7.30pm, priced from £9.50 to £21.50 are available by calling 01789 207100 (www.civichall.co.uk).

Chamberlains wins award at the National Fish and Chips awards 2012

city_news@marketingbirmingham.com — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A recently opened Fish and Chip Restaurant on the Sandwell and Birmingham border has won a prestigious award at the National Fish and Chip awards 2012 held in London last week. Chamberlains Quality Fish and Chips beat finalists from Southport and Cardiff to be crowned the “The Best Newcomer to the Fish and Chip Industry in the UK” After a vigorous judging period by the Seafish Organisation Chamberlains were first shortlisted in September then presented with their award by celebrity chef Richard Corrigan in front of 500 guests at the Riverbank Park Plaza Hotel in London.

Chamberlains Quality Fish & Chips opened in March 2011 and although the family run restaurant has only been serving up Britain’s most famous dish for 10 months it is already gained an excellent reputation with 5 star ratings on review sites.   The owners want to provide the best Fish & Chip experience in the West Midlands in terms of quality of food, service and environment, and recognise that diners will travel for quality fish and chips.    Factors that impressed the judges of the competition is the commitment Chamberlains have shown to providing excellent fish and chips, customer service and also hygiene as Sandwell Council have already awarded the establishment 5 stars for Food Safety.

As well as a modern clean take away the restaurant has 76 seats, is fully licensed, has free car parking, disabled facilities and wi fi access. The decor has a modern contemporary feel with images of Birmingham of years gone by. Chamberlains not only serve fish and chips as trained chefs are on hand to offer other main courses, tasty starters and tempting deserts. All food is cooked fresh to order and the fish and chips are cooked the traditional way in beef dripping although the customer can specify vegetable oil if preferred and even gluten free batter is available which means customers with Coeliac disease can even enjoy tasty fish and chips.

Obviously the most favourite dish is fish and chips and the Chamberlains cod or haddock meal is served with fresh chips, choice of mushy peas, side salad, curry sauce or onion rings, crusty bread and butter and either a pot of tea or cup of your choice of coffee.   Over 4000 comment cards have already been written by extremely satisfied diners many saying that the Fish which is served in a very light and crispy batter is how fish and chips used to be served and “better than the seaside”

Daniel Lynch co owner and head chef explained why Chamberlains stands out from other fish and chip establishments:

“Chamberlains offers a full dining experience, although the menu features fish and chips as the speciality we also serve things such as homemade fish pie, tuna, smoked hake and cod and King prawn curry. For those wanting meat we stock award winning Bowketts Pies and dishes such as homemade beef burgers with mature cheddar and spring onion as well as a chicken and vegetarian meals. Add to that quality surroundings, atmosphere and friendly service it takes Fish and Chips to another level”

Chamberlains offer special days for example on Tuesdays you can have any two main courses in the restaurant for £10 and Thursdays pensioners can have small fish and chips, with all the trimmings, a pot of tea and an ice cream for just £5.95!

Chamberlains, situated next to what was Jonathans is located on the junction of Hagley Road West and Wolverhampton Road is open every day for lunch, tea and dinner from 12noon to 9pm and for those wishing not to eat in they also have a takeaway option.

More Facts;
250 million portions of fish and chips are served every year
There are 10,500 Fish and Chip shops in the UK
There is 36% less calories in a portion of Fish and Chips than a Chicken Korma and Pilau Rice
There is 42% less fat in a portion of Fish and Chips than a Doner Kebab

Seafish, the authority on seafood, was founded in 1981 by an act of parliament and supports the UK seafood industry for a sustainable, profitable future. Our services range from research and development, economic consulting, market research and training and accreditation through to account management and legislative advice for the seafood industry. www.seafish.org

Chamberlains has a very useful website www.chamberlainsfishandchips.co.uk
For more information please contact Simon Shaw on 07770 828701 or at
Chamberlains.fishandchips@hotmail.co.uk

Midland events company asked to help organise student day at International Confex 2012

city_news@marketingbirmingham.com — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Stourbridge based Event Management Company Opening Doors & Venues are thrilled to be working with Tony Rogers Conference and Event Services to organise ‘The Future is You’, a half-day conference, on the last day of UBM’s International Confex 2012, dedicated to final year event management students.

As owner/manager of Opening Doors & Venues, Rose Padmore, is particularly excited about her hands-on role as Operations Director at this event on 8 March at Excel in London and says: “I’m delighted to be involved with this year’s International Confex in this way primarily because encouraging the development of young people in the events industry is a great joy of mine and this is the UK's leading event for event organisers.”

As a regular guest speaker at University College Birmingham Rose shares her experiences as a PCO with 2nd and 3rd year event management students and over the last 3 years has also been able to provide some with invaluable work experience.

Catherine Parker, UCB Events Management lecturer says:

“Having professional credible role models, like Rose, share their experiences is invaluable to a students grasp of the events industry.

“I’m delighted that a number of final year students from UCB will be attending ‘The Future is You’, where they will be able to gain an insight into current challenges and trends, get practical advice on employment and career development and generally enjoy an experience that will help give them a head start in their careers.”

This is the 2nd year of ‘Student Day’ at Confex and all 200 free places are already booked with students from all over the country keen to attend. Maybe a larger room next year!?

The Belfry wins double golf travel award

city_news@marketingbirmingham.com — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Belfry, four-time venue for the Ryder Cup, has won the ‘Best Hotel/Resort’ and ‘Best Course’ accolades for the East and West Midlands area in the first Travel Awards run by the UK’s top-selling golf magazine Today’s Golfer.

The awards – chosen by thousands of readers in association with top golf travel operator Your Golf Travel – positioned The Belfry as the number one resort in the category with 51% of the votes, ahead of Forest of Arden (22%) and Forest Pines (12%).

Meanwhile, in the ‘Best Course’ poll, the iconic Ryder Cup Brabazon course claimed 43% of the votes – more than second placed Woodhall Spa (23%) and Forest of Arden (16%) combined.

The awards complement recent figures of growth announced by The Belfry from 2011. The number of rounds played over the resort’s Brabazon, PGA National and Derby courses increased by 10% during the year, while the number of custom-fit sessions in the PGA National Academy exceeded 2,000 – representing another 10% increase.

“We’d like to thank all Today’s Golfer readers who voted for us in what is yet another major accolade for the resort,” said The Belfry’s Director of Golf Gary Silcock. “It’s further proof that when golfers come to The Belfry, they’re not only impressed with the world-class condition of the golf courses, but also with the level of service in our hotel, restaurants, bars and leisure facilities.”

The award-winning golf resort was also able to report an increase of 8% in the number of visitors booking Stay & Play deals, with the most popular break being the ground-breaking ‘2 nights, 3 rounds’ deal that is available from just £270.

To find out more about The Belfry or to book a visit, go to www.TheBelfry.com.

Birmingham Royal Ballet's 2012 spring season at Birmingham hippodrome

city_news@marketingbirmingham.com — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

David Bintley’s production of Hobson’s Choice
A mixed bill Spring Passions

Venue and booking information:
Birmingham Hippodrome: Tickets: 0844 338 5000 www.birminghamhippodrome.com

Birmingham Royal Ballet is delighted to return to the Birmingham Hippodrome stage from 22 February to 3 March. The Company will perform their Spring season in their home town with two programmes, David Bintley’s earthy comedy Hobson’s Choice, and a mixed bill Spring Passions.

Hobson’s Choice 22 – 25 February

Hobson’s Choice, created by David Bintley, enjoyed its world premiere in 1989 performed by Sadler’s Wells Royal Ballet at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden. It received a standing ovation the likes of which hadn’t been seen since the premiere of Frederick Ashton’s La Fille mal gardée, and has remained hugely popular ever since. Now this story of boots, booze, love and laughter will take to the Birmingham Hippodrome stage for six performances only.
Birmingham Royal Ballet’s Hobson's Choice, a combination of a tender love-story, hilarious comedy and a foot-tapping musical is based on Harold Brighouse's well-known play. The ballet tells the rags to riches tale of the humble boot-maker Will Mossop, whose talent could take him far, if only someone would push him in the right direction. The girl for the job is headstrong Maggie Hobson.

The story unfolds as Hayden Griffin's magnificent set and costume designs take the audience from a nineteenth century shop to a Victorian park. The company dances to the music of composer Paul Reade, composer of theme tunes for The Antiques Roadshow and The Flumps. Lighting is by John B. Read.

Spring Passions 29 February – 3 March
(Daphnis and Chloë / The Two Pigeons)

Two uplifting stories of young love’s survival when tested to breaking point continue the Company’s 2011/12 season at Birmingham Hippodrome.

Considered by many to be Maurice Ravel’s greatest orchestral score and with choreography by Frederick Ashton, Daphnis and Chloë is one of the many great ballets from the outstanding legacy left by Sergei Diaghilev and the Ballets Russes. On an island in ancient Greece, lost in their love for each other, Daphnis and Chloë struggle against jealous rivals and marauding pirates to be together, but ultimately only the power of the god Pan can reunite them.

The second ballet in the Frederick Ashton double bill takes us from a Greek island paradise to a poignant Parisian idyll. The Two Pigeons tells of a young man growing up and finding himself frustrated with the immaturity of his fiancée. He flies the nest, leaving her to her tears and falls in with a group of wild gypsies. The young girl pursues him and battles for his heart with a gypsy beauty. The beauty’s jealous lover beats the young man to within an inch of his life. Realising what he has given up, he returns to his apartment in Paris, into the forgiving arms of his sweetheart. Ashton’s 1961 version of this romantic classic, which has been in the repertory continuously since its original premiere in 1886, features some of his best choreography. The closing reconciliation pas de deux, which features two live pigeons, is a true tear jerker and a favourite in galas the world over. A lush romantic score by André Messager perfectly compliments the drama and emotion of the dance.

Boost for Birmingham's museums

city_news@marketingbirmingham.com — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 12:54:48 GMT

Birmingham’s new Museums Trust today received a major boost as Birmingham Museums & Art Gallery and Thinktank secured Arts Council England funding for the next three years.

Arts Council England has announced the 16 Major partner museums who will together receive approximately £20 million a year in funding for the next three years (April 2012 – March 2015) as part of its Renaissance programme for regional museums.

Full details of the grant will be confirmed at a later date but today’s announcement means Birmingham Museums Trust can extend the quality and reach of programmes both regionally and nationally, broadening access to the collections and reaching a wider audience.

Cabinet Member for Leisure Sport and Culture Cllr Martin Mullaney said: "This is a ringing endorsement for Birmingham and its museums, and we're extremely grateful that the Arts Council clearly recognises the exciting plans we are putting in place.

"We're delighted to have secured Arts Council Renaissance funding for the next three years and this is a huge step forward in our project to combine the Birmingham City Council Museums and Thinktank Trust into a new single Museums Trust for Birmingham (Birmingham Museums Trust)."

Len Clark, Chairman of Thinktank Trust continued: "We'll discover the size of the grant over the coming weeks, but I'm confident this support will help us to create even more opportunities for Birmingham communities and the West Midland region to engage in arts, science, heritage and culture.

"This is truly a great first step for Birmingham Museums Trust and creates fantastic prospects for the organisation."

The funding will be essential in the ongoing transformational project to combine the Birmingham City Council Museums and Thinktank Trust into a new single Museums Trust for Birmingham.

By supporting the cultural and learning agenda, the Arts Council funding will help the new Trust to create even more opportunities for Birmingham communities and the West Midland region to engage in arts, science, heritage and culture.

The Arts Council praised the Birmingham museums application on many levels. It noted strong areas of achievement in the different venues and the intention to share good practice. It also mentioned the wide reach of audiences for the different venues, a strong commitment towards extending this diversity.

For more information on all Major partner museums, visit http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/news/arts-council-news/we-announce-renaissance-major-partner-museums-and-/

Ironbridge Gorge Museum wins share of £20m Arts Council England Major Grants funding

city_news@marketingbirmingham.com — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust is celebrating the news that it has secured a share of a £20 million per annum Major Grants funding stream from Arts Council England, to cover the period 2012-15.

It was announced by Arts Council England that the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust was one of 16 leading museums and museum consortia across England that have been awarded a share of a £20 million grant for the next three years as part of its Renaissance programme for leading regional museums across England.

This news is a significant boost in the delivery of the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust’s charitable vision, helping the Museum achieve excellence through the development of their award-winning work in the World Heritage Site, build new cultural partnerships and by increasing the number of visitors to the ten Ironbridge museums.

The complex of ten diverse museums is located within the Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site, regarded internationally as the Birthplace of Industry. The Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust is recognised as one of the most entrepreneurial museums in the UK and a centre of learning.

With such a reputation for excellence, the Museum applied to Arts Council England for funding to support their work in the development and use of their Designated National Collections, strengthen their financial resilience, build new cultural partnerships and provide a leadership and support role to the wider museums’ sector with a focus on Governance, Volunteering and Entrepreneurialism.

Much of the Museum’s work over the last four decades has been seen as a blue print for other museums to emulate, including its multi award-winning volunteering programme. The Trust currently has over 330 active volunteers who support the Museum in many different ways from guiding visitors around the sites to working behind the scenes in the Library & Archive.

David Wright, MP for Telford said:

“This major award by Arts Council England is excellent news for Telford & Wrekin. It will provide a major boost to the local visitor economy and businesses in the World Heritage Site and it will help the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust deliver outstanding new services for our communities”.

Katie Foster, Chair of Shropshire & Telford Tourism Strategy Board and former Chair of the Heritage Lottery Fund West Midlands said:

“This is wonderful news - and what we have all been hoping for. The Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust is a major contributor to the cultural life and economic impact of the West Midlands and the UK as well as internationally acknowledged as a leader in its field. Anyone who has visited will never fail to have been impressed by its wide embrace and engaging way of telling the story of the epic events which made this area the Birthplace of Industry and which created the modern world. This funding will make sure the innovation for which the Museum is known worldwide will continue.”

Barrie Williams, Chairman of the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust said:

“We are delighted with the news of the Arts Council’s fantastic support, which I know will be a great encouragement to the Trustees, staff and volunteers in the delivery of the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust’s charitable vision”.

Arts Council England is confident that the various funding streams of its Renaissance programme will work together to provide a comprehensive package of support, driving excellence and delivering long term change in museums in England, with the aim of attracting more visitors to museums and enabling people to experience them in new and innovative ways.

For more information about the Ironbridge Gorge Museums visit www.ironbridge.org.uk.

The REP announces programme for spring and summer 2012

city_news@marketingbirmingham.com — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Enter your news story hereBirmingham Repertory Theatre has announced its programme of work for spring and summer 2012 with a thrilling season including six new plays from a range of voices in theatre today.

As The REP marks its second year off-site the company continues to perform at other venues across the city including mac, The Old Rep Theatre, A E Harris, Birmingham’s Central Library and other community libraries, the ruins of a medieval castle and even a city centre promenade performance.

The company has continued to produce, discover and nurture new writing whilst its building is closed for redevelopment as part of the Library of Birmingham. This season alone features six world premieres.

Opening at the mac and touring the UK will be Gravity by Arzhang Pehzman (23 Feb to 3 March) and Mustafa by Naylah Ahmed (17 to 21 April). Both plays have been commissioned by The REP and both will go on tour.

As part of the World Shakespeare Festival, the world premiere of Forests (31 Aug - 15 Sept) will take place at The Old Rep Theatre before touring Europe. This new production welcomes the Catalan director Calixto Bieito back to The REP and is inspired by the forest and woodland scenes from Shakespeare's plays.

The Witches’ Promise by Stephanie Dale (July 2012) has been commissioned by The REP as one of six productions within The REP’s two year Neighbourhood REP project. This large scale community production will be set in the medieval ruins of Weoley Castle. Other Neighbourhood REP productions will take place in community libraries across Birmingham - full details of which will be announced in early 2012.

For young people there will be the premieres of Kidnapping Cameron by Jennifer Tuckett (18 to 21 July) performed by The Young Rep and Hip Hope Hero by Moving Hands Theatre Company (30 May to 2 June) both at The Old Rep Theatre.

For this season the company will also be collaborating with some of the most exciting companies in the country –Stan’s Cafe, Paines Plough and Fierce Festival. Inspired by Tulipmania, The Just Price of Flowers (15 to 30 June), co-produced with the Birmingham-based Stan's Cafe, will run at the old metal pressings factory A E Harris. Another co-production with leading new writing company, Paines Plough will bring hip-hop poet, Kate Tempest's debut play Wasted (23 March) to mac.

Joining forces with the 2012 Fierce Festival, The REP will present two productions. Time Has Fallen Asleep In The Afternoon Sunshine by Mette Edvardsen (30 March to 7 April) will see performers bring books to life for one-on-one recital in Birmingham Central Library, while Berlin Love Tour by Lynda Radley and Tom Creed (30 March to 8 April) will take place on the streets of Birmingham for a guided tour with a difference.

In March, The REP will present Samuel Beckett's masterpiece Waiting For Godot (13 to 17 March). This new production by Talawa Theatre and West Yorkshire Playhouse will star an all black cast and will be directed by Ian Brown.

Stuart Rogers, Executive Director of Birmingham Repertory Theatre says “Our first year off-site has been an exciting and rewarding one. Exciting as we’ve produced some great shows in a very different way to before and rewarding as our audiences have followed us around the city. The next year is very much about building on the successes of 2011, increasing what we have to offer audiences and ensuring that we are match fit for our return home in 2013.”

The season at a glance:

Gravity by Arzhang Pezhman
mac, Thu 23 Feb to Sat 3 March

Wasted by Kate Tempest
mac, Fri 23 March

Waiting For Godot by Samuel Beckett
The Old Rep Theatre, Tue 13 to Sat 17 March

Time Has Fallen Asleep In The Afternoon Sunshine by Mette Edvardsen *
Birmingham Central Library, Fri 30 March to Sat 7 April

Berlin Love Tour by Lynda Radley & Tom Creed *
City Centre, Fri 30 March to Sun 8 April

Mustafa by Naylah Ahmed
mac, Tue 17 to Sat 21 April

The Just Price of Flowers by James Yarker
A E Harris, Fri 15 to Sat 30 June

Kidnapping Cameron by Jennifer Tuckett
The Old Rep Theatre, Wed 18 to Sat 21 July

The Witches Promises by Stephanie Dale *
Weoley Castle, July 2011 (dates tbc)

Forests based on texts by William Shakespeare
The Old Rep Theatre, Fri 31 August to Sat 15 September

Plus First Stages series of plays for young children and families.

Tickets are on sale now (apart from those marked * which will go on sale on January 21 2011)
Box Office: 0121 236 4455 Online: birmingham-rep.co.uk

February and March fun at Drayton Manor Theme Park

city_news@marketingbirmingham.com — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Drayton Manor Theme Park, near Tamworth in Staffordshire, is gearing up to entertain the young and young at heart this February and March, ahead of its main 2012 season, which begins on Saturday 17th March.

Thomas Land™, along with the 15-acre zoo, will be open on the following weekends:
•   Friday 3rd February – Monday 6th February
•   Friday 24th February – Monday 27th February
•   Friday 2nd March – Monday 5th March
•   Friday 9th March – Monday 12th March

As an added treat for families, the park is offering discount entry with 2-for-1 offers available from its website, www.draytonmanor.co.uk.

Thomas Land is home to many rides and attractions based on loveable Thomas & Friends™ characters, including Cranky the Crane and Harold the Helicopter. There’s also a Thomas the Tank Engine train ride, and indoor and outdoor play areas.

Meanwhile, Drayton Manor Zoo has more than 100 animal species from around the world, including big cats, monkeys and primates, as well as penguins and various reptiles.

The Thomas Land shop, Grill Inn restaurant, Knapford Café and Mrs Kyndley’s Kitchen will also be open during these weekends.

Visitors travelling from farther afield can also benefit with reduced prices at the Drayton Manor Hotel. It is offering a Stay & Play package from £96. This includes entry into the park and overnight stay, with breakfast, for a family of four.

Meanwhile, Drayton Manor Theme Park’s newest restaurant, The Grill Inn, has expanded its culinary offering by serving a mouth-watering Sunday lunch menu.

With a sophisticated twist on the traditional meat and two veg meal, the restaurant serves either sirloin of beef, loin of pork or chicken supreme with a choice of duck fat roast potatoes, creamed potato, or potato gratin and a tasty jus on the side. There’s also a fish and vegetarian option available.

For further details or to reserve a table call 01827 252499, email info@thegrillinn.co.uk or visit www.thegrillinn.co.uk.

For regular updates and news about Drayton Manor Theme Park join us on Twitter www.twitter.com/Draytonmanor and Facebook www.facebook.com/DraytonManorPark.

Record numbers of visitors have a sweet day out at chocolate attraction

city_news@marketingbirmingham.com — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Cadbury World is gearing up for another busy year, after a record number of people visited the attraction in 2011.

Last year, over 590,000 people took a trip to the Bournville-based Cadbury World where, amongst other features, visitors boarded the magical Cadabra ride and watched the talented chocolatiers at work, both of which are included in the 14 amazing zones open to visitors.

The figures, a year-on-year increase of 6%, mark the attraction’s best ever year for footfall, beating the previous record of 574,000 visitors, set in 2009.

Diane Mitchell, marketing manager at Cadbury World, said: “We’re really pleased that Cadbury World continues to be a popular choice for families across the UK. Last year, we installed a brand new outdoor children’s play area and offered visitors a packed schedule of family entertainment and themed activities, something that will continue over the next 12 months.

“So, whatever your age, you can enjoy coming to Cadbury World time and again - there are always new things to see and do.”

Along with planned improvements to the attraction, the coming year will see further special weekends planned at Cadbury World. There is still a chance to see the Cadbury World pantomime, which runs until the weekend of 28th and 29th January and visitors will be able to enjoy a packed programme of family entertainment during the upcoming half term holidays.

Magicians, jugglers and ventriloquists will be among the performers at the attraction from 11th - 19th February, with handmade chocolate hearts also available on Valentine’s Day.

For more information about Cadbury World, and to arrange a visit, please visit www.cadburyworld.co.uk.

Town Hall & Symphony Hall's Paul Keene wins Concert Hall Manager of the Year

city_news@marketingbirmingham.com — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Paul Keene, Town Hall & Symphony Hall Birmingham’s Director of Programming, has been honoured by the Association of British Orchestras (ABO) and Rhinegold Publishing as the first ever ‘Concert Hall Manager of the Year’. The award, presented at the ABO’s annual conference gala dinner last night (18 January) recognises the quality, creative ambition, diversity and formidable international partnerships which have been hallmarks of Paul’s programming both at Symphony Hall – fittingly, this year celebrating its 21st anniversary – and more recently Town Hall.

The citation asserts that the award is made in recognition of “the power of Paul’s personal vision, his tireless commitment to its delivery and rich contribution to cultural life in Birmingham and beyond” citing as examples a ‘quartet of standout events’ last season, all involving the partnering of visual arts with music: the Philharmonia’s Tristan und Isolde with vivid film projections by Bill Viola, Klaus Obermaier’s stunningly complex Rite of Spring 3D, Thomas Adès’s In Seven Days with Tal Rosner’s visuals and the Houston Symphony Orchestra’s The Planets with HD footage from NASA.

Paul Keene is currently overseeing a major festival to celebrate Symphony Hall’s 21st anniversary which includes a series of Wagner operas, innovative projects, film screenings with live accompaniment, workshops and behind the scenes access.