all in all it went rather well didnt it?
I even found a new job for myself
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
festival mutterings 9 or last?
all in all it went rather well didnt it?
I even found a new job for myself
Friday, July 06, 2007
Festival Mutterings 8
Well folks its here, it starts tomorrow though it had a bit of a sneaky 10 second head start with the opening of Casey Orr's Exhibition on the canal on Thursday night. The weather was appalling but a fantastic gathering of wellies, unbrellas and i dont care lets just get wet took place and the exhibition was christened in good spirits.
If you are driving up the stanningley bypass you cant miss the big pictures on the front of the fire station done by Kevin Hickson and 4 local primaries, cut and stick on a grand scale.
I can barely remember my own name at the moment so if you come to the tea dance tomorrow and see me wearing a name badge, its for my benefit not yours..
yee ha let the fun begin!
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Festival Mutterings 7
Well it would appear that i am psychic as sure enough my billboard has peeled off! There i was sat at the traffic lights in disbelief at my own prediction. Bollocks. Should i pay 450 quid for another one?
Now being from Lancashire im quite used to a bit of weather and im generally happiest in my wellies, though im not sure thats something i should be saying in public. But the wet weather i fear is hampering the distribution of festival brochures around west leeds... if anyone gets one through the letterbox please let me know...i'll sleep much better at night. If im honest i got a little concerned when the address for dropping off 20,000 brochures for team distribution was a lock up on a back street in Doncaster.
The rains flooded our building over the weekend, so on monday everyone at interplay spent the day bucketing and shovelling out the drains and basement. Luckily the electrics are raised up a little so we havent lost too much and we are going to limp through the festival (hopefully) with only a funny smell lingering over us. So if you come down to interplay during the festival just ignore the doors hanging off and the splits in the floor!
Now being from Lancashire im quite used to a bit of weather and im generally happiest in my wellies, though im not sure thats something i should be saying in public. But the wet weather i fear is hampering the distribution of festival brochures around west leeds... if anyone gets one through the letterbox please let me know...i'll sleep much better at night. If im honest i got a little concerned when the address for dropping off 20,000 brochures for team distribution was a lock up on a back street in Doncaster.
The rains flooded our building over the weekend, so on monday everyone at interplay spent the day bucketing and shovelling out the drains and basement. Luckily the electrics are raised up a little so we havent lost too much and we are going to limp through the festival (hopefully) with only a funny smell lingering over us. So if you come down to interplay during the festival just ignore the doors hanging off and the splits in the floor!
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Friday, June 08, 2007
No wonder Jane mutters!
Now Jane wont have been blowing her own trumpet with the following, but just wanted to let you know that Jane is barmy and luckily we all benefit! Look at this truely ambitious programme of events! Jane as a part time worker we salute you!
There could be no better way to start the festival than with an afternoon of divine indulgence at the Marvellous Armley Tea Dance. Get out your dancing shoes and join the throng for cakes, buns and tarts all served with the finest freshly brewed tea. Live Music, vintage frocks and more than a smattering of good old fashioned fun. We promise you will be begging for more.
Sat 7 July 3-7pm. Interplay, Armley Ridge Road, Armley. £5/£2.50 conc.
fete games, community stalls and of course lots of sunshine! Put on your sun hat, pack your picnic blanket and join us for a delightful Sunday afternoon.
FREE FACE PAINTING, WILLOW WEAVING, GNOME PAINTING,*HAT MAKING, NAIL ART, FORTUNE TELLERS AND MORE!
FREE WACKY WALKABOUT CHARACTERS Be amazed by Big Rory and glamorous Morag the 9ft tall couple. Morag may have big feet but that doesn't stop her from wearing huge stilettos, just mind she doesn't stand on your toes! Hodman Dodmanott and Sally Forth are an elderly couple of miniature proportions touring the world with their possessions strapped to their backs - listen out for their rambling tales (they do go on!).
FREE COMEDY SHOW Let Terry and his assistant Vic take you on a hilarious adventure through the thrilling world of carpets in their quest to find an authentic flying carpet.
FREE LIVE MUSIC in the bandstand from Wilsden Brass Band and fantastic theatre by Interplay in a specially designed dome tent.
FREE SHEDOPOLIS 15 garden sheds transformed by artists for you to explore, each shed the same on the outside but unique on the inside…Jackanory shed, pub shed, tea shed and of course the famous Knitted shed!
LOCATION Charming Pudsey Park is on Church Lane in Pudsey Town Centre. It is near the bus station and Leisure Centre.
* no gnomes will be harmed during this activitiy
By Water - An Outdoor Photographic Exhibition by Casey Orr FREE!
Photographer Casey Orr lives in Armley but is originally from the States. Last year Casey cycled home to the US along the Leeds-Liverpool canal, crossed the Atlantic by container ship and continued upriver to Delaware, photographing the journey along the way. Re-live Casey's journey in an amazing outdoor exhibition of 1 metre square photographs on the canal wall by Armley Mills. Sat 7 July until end Sept. Armley Mills, Canal Road, Armley.
Fire! - Kevin Hickson with Armley, Christchurch, Greenhill and Whingate Primary Schools FREE!
Take a trip up Stanningley Road to see the giant murals on the front of the old Bramley Fire Station. West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service invited us to give the building a temporary face-lift. Sat 7 July onwards.
Homes and Gardens Photographic Exhibition FREE!
The Foto Survey Group of Great Britain present a photography exhibition entitled 'Homes and Gardens' in an Estate Agent on Armley Town Street. The group come together to tackle big themes such as East German allotments, sleeping rough, all the homes one of the group has ever lived in, back-yard washing lines, and the
number 16 bus route. Showing Sat 7-22 July (9am-6pm Mon to Fri, 10am-4pm Sat) at He-re Letting Agents, 49 Armley Town Street.
www.fotosurveygroup.com.
'Celebrate Leeds' In Farnley FREE!
Come and celebrate the history of Farnley at a special event at the Hillside Community Centre. The Neighbourhood Action Group, Farnley History Group and the Farnley Wortley Cluster of schools are celebrating in partnership the History Group's 20th Anniversary. An event for all ages. Sat 7 July 12-3pm. Hillside Community Centre, Cross Lane, Farnley.
Knitted Curiosites FREE!
Look out for knitting in unusual West Leeds locations throughout the festival - expect knitted cakes in the bakery, knitted veggies in the greengrocer and a sinister flock of knitted robins in the woods! Full locations details flisted here shortly... Sat 7-22 July.
West Leeds Rugby World Cup FREE!
Come along to cheer as West Leeds Primary Schools battle it out on the rugby field for t-shirts, medals and of course the World Cup! Sun 8 July 10am-12pm. Crawshaw School, Robin Lane, Pudsey.
The Amazing Knitted Shed Goes On Tour FREE!
Unbelievably we have knitted an entire full sized garden shed! Knitted doors, walls, roof - the lot! Artist Liz Noble and an army of enthusiastic local knitters have been non-stop knitting to create a textile masterpiece with a sense of humour. Don't miss this wonderful exhibit of wooliness - come and see the shed at:
PUDSEY PARK Church Lane, Pudsey: Sun 8 July 12-5pm
BRAMLEY IRONMONGERS AND DIY Town St, Bramley: Fri 13 July
ARMLEY MILLS MUSEUM Canal St, Armley: Mon 30 July onwards
Festival Radio 87.7FM FREE!
On-air and online at www.interplayleeds.co.uk Tune-in to shows from Norman Records, Rock and Roll Circus, exv3ctor, Rusty Staples Rubbish Disco and The Silver Hammer Gated Community Radio Hour. Also listen out for plays created by
participants from BARCA and Farnley Park High, local news from our team of roving reporters, comedy quizzes and schools programming. Visit the festival website www.interplayleeds.co.uk for full radio listings. Mon 9-20 July 1-10pm.
This Land - The Story of Woody Guthrie by Interplay
Staged within an intimate dome tent, this play tells the lifestory of folk singer Woody Guthrie in 1930's America. Live music and up close action make this storytelling at its best. This Land has just returned from a successful 60-date UK tour, so don't miss this rare chance to see the show in Leeds. Tue 10, Wed 11, Thur 12 July 7.30pm, tickets £5. For booking and venue details call 0113 2638556.
Festival Drive-in Movies UNBELIEVABLY FREE!
If you missed them last year then here is another chance! Three nights of real Drive-in Movies at Pudsey Civic Car Park. Park up, tune in your radio, stock up on popcorn and experience the thrill of the drive-in. Take your pick of these classic films to enjoy on a lovely long summer evening. Comfy seats guaranteed. 10pm start.
The Adventures of Priscilla Queen of the Desert (15) Thur 12 July 10pm
Psycho (15) (orig. version) * Fri 13 July 10pm
Saturday Night Fever (PG) Sat 14 July 10pm
All showing at Pudsey Civic Hall car park, Dawsons Corner, Pudsey.
* not for scaredy cats
EAT He-re
For one night only, Letting Agents He-re will be transformed into an exciting, upmarket restaurant. At last you will be able to wine and dine on our beloved Armley Town Street, with food prepared by Matt Walker, former Chef of MalMaison. Bring your own tipple of choice! Thur 12 July 7.30pm. He-re, 49 Town St, Armley. Limited tickets £12 per head from 0113 225 1616 or www.tatb.blogspot.com
Hop on the Bandwagon FREE!
Look out for the mobile library buses as you'll get more than a Mills and Boon during festival fortnight. Live musicians will be touring with the buses to entertain you as you browse. There has never been a better time to join the library.
Thur 12 July 11.45am St Michaels Court, Bramley
Mon 16 July 2.30pm Western Grove, Wortley
Thur 19 July 2.15pm Galloway Court, Pudsey, 3.15pm
The Farmers, Pudsey
Thur 19 July 6.30pm New Farnley Community Centre, New Farnley
Fri 20 July 1.30pm Wesley Terrace, Rodley
The Lancasterian School Room Village Fete FREE!
Opened by Calendar presenter Kate Webster, the afternoon will be filled with fun: an artist workshop; Parks Ranger workshop; local gardening club workshop; children's activities including face painting and balloon twisting; Clifton Youth Brass Band; an
exhibition; raffles; cakes; BBQ and our popular cream teas. Sat 14 July 2-4pm. The Lancasterian School Room, Low Moor Side Lane, New Farnley.
Picnic at Armley Mills - Turveyworld Dance FREE!
If you are feeling hungry for a performance experience with a difference, then treat yourself to this stunning visual feast in the grounds and buildings of Armley Mills. Picnic at Armley Mills will involve ten dancers and live music in a mouth-watering and
ultimately very exciting dance performance. Inspired by the striking architecture of the Armley Mills building, the dancers will transport you to a world of sight smell and tastes in a sumptuous and delicious experience. Sat 14 and Sun 15 July 1pm (bring your own pop and sarnies). Armley Mills, Canal Road, Armley.
Art1st Open Studio Weekend FREE!
This working studio in Stanningley is throwing open its doors, so drop in to view the artwork and share drinks and nibbles with the artists. Sat 14 and Sun 15 July 10am-4pm. Hainsworth Mill Art Gallery, 140 Town St, Stanningley (above Hainsworth Mill Shop).
Landmark Projections Night FREE!
For the last six months photographers have been collecting images of West Leeds on the Flickr website for a night of ginormous projections onto the gloriously iconic Gasometer at Armley Gyratory. Come and see the biggest illuminated photo album in the city on Sunday 15 July 10pm. Tong Road, New Wortley.
Brass in t' Bath
A brass band concert like no other. Pack your cossie and take a dip. This unusual concert will take place during normal public swimming sessions with the band on the poolside and a swimming audience. No running, no bombing, no heavy petting - and what will it sound like when you put your head under the water? Sun 15 July 3pm. Bramley Baths, Broad Lane, Bramley (normal swim charges apply).
Urban Fusion Music Gig - Featuring Middleman
Professional and amateur musicians from Armley, Bramley and Stanningley perform live sets, fusing together a range of musical styles and cultural backgrounds. Local favourites Middleman will round off the evening, recently signed, catch them locally while you can. This gig will be transmitted live on festival radio. Wed 18 July 7.30pm. £2 entry. Interplay, Armley Ridge Rd, Armley.
Mexican Drum Party at He-re
It just doesn't get more entertaining than this amigos! A night of Mexican food, drink, music and entertainment at the Letting Agents He-re. Entertainment by local drumming guru Dave Mitchell plus a free drumming workshop! Free shot of tequila on
arrival for Mexican dress so don't forget your poncho! Bring your own tipple of choice! Weds 18th July 7.30pm. £5 on the door. He-re, 49 Town Street, Armley.
Bramley Carnival Revival 2007 FREE!
A fun filled family extravaganza. Sat 21- Sun 22 July
Bramley Park, Town St, Bramley.
www.bramleycarnival.co.uk
Greenside Primary School
African Tales remixed by the kids in Pudsey in a music and dance exploration of different cultures. Evening performance by invitation only.
I Love West Leeds at Wortley High School
Wortley High and their feeder primaries are turning the whole school upside down to celebrate the festival, they will be knitting, breakdancing, performing, hunting treasure and generally having a great time showing off to each other. By invitation only.
Festival Listings 2007
For a festival brochure call 0113 263 8556 or use the contact us page on the menu at the top of the page.
Event Listings
The Marvellous Armley Tea DanceThere could be no better way to start the festival than with an afternoon of divine indulgence at the Marvellous Armley Tea Dance. Get out your dancing shoes and join the throng for cakes, buns and tarts all served with the finest freshly brewed tea. Live Music, vintage frocks and more than a smattering of good old fashioned fun. We promise you will be begging for more.
Sat 7 July 3-7pm. Interplay, Armley Ridge Road, Armley. £5/£2.50 conc.
I LOVE WEST LEEDS FESTIVAL DAY!
Sunday 8 July 12-5pm Pudsey Park FREE ADMISSION!
fete games, community stalls and of course lots of sunshine! Put on your sun hat, pack your picnic blanket and join us for a delightful Sunday afternoon.
FREE FACE PAINTING, WILLOW WEAVING, GNOME PAINTING,*HAT MAKING, NAIL ART, FORTUNE TELLERS AND MORE!
FREE WACKY WALKABOUT CHARACTERS Be amazed by Big Rory and glamorous Morag the 9ft tall couple. Morag may have big feet but that doesn't stop her from wearing huge stilettos, just mind she doesn't stand on your toes! Hodman Dodmanott and Sally Forth are an elderly couple of miniature proportions touring the world with their possessions strapped to their backs - listen out for their rambling tales (they do go on!).
FREE COMEDY SHOW Let Terry and his assistant Vic take you on a hilarious adventure through the thrilling world of carpets in their quest to find an authentic flying carpet.
FREE LIVE MUSIC in the bandstand from Wilsden Brass Band and fantastic theatre by Interplay in a specially designed dome tent.
FREE SHEDOPOLIS 15 garden sheds transformed by artists for you to explore, each shed the same on the outside but unique on the inside…Jackanory shed, pub shed, tea shed and of course the famous Knitted shed!
LOCATION Charming Pudsey Park is on Church Lane in Pudsey Town Centre. It is near the bus station and Leisure Centre.
* no gnomes will be harmed during this activitiy
By Water - An Outdoor Photographic Exhibition by Casey Orr FREE!
Photographer Casey Orr lives in Armley but is originally from the States. Last year Casey cycled home to the US along the Leeds-Liverpool canal, crossed the Atlantic by container ship and continued upriver to Delaware, photographing the journey along the way. Re-live Casey's journey in an amazing outdoor exhibition of 1 metre square photographs on the canal wall by Armley Mills. Sat 7 July until end Sept. Armley Mills, Canal Road, Armley.
Fire! - Kevin Hickson with Armley, Christchurch, Greenhill and Whingate Primary Schools FREE!
Take a trip up Stanningley Road to see the giant murals on the front of the old Bramley Fire Station. West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service invited us to give the building a temporary face-lift. Sat 7 July onwards.
Homes and Gardens Photographic Exhibition FREE!
The Foto Survey Group of Great Britain present a photography exhibition entitled 'Homes and Gardens' in an Estate Agent on Armley Town Street. The group come together to tackle big themes such as East German allotments, sleeping rough, all the homes one of the group has ever lived in, back-yard washing lines, and the
number 16 bus route. Showing Sat 7-22 July (9am-6pm Mon to Fri, 10am-4pm Sat) at He-re Letting Agents, 49 Armley Town Street.
www.fotosurveygroup.com.
'Celebrate Leeds' In Farnley FREE!
Come and celebrate the history of Farnley at a special event at the Hillside Community Centre. The Neighbourhood Action Group, Farnley History Group and the Farnley Wortley Cluster of schools are celebrating in partnership the History Group's 20th Anniversary. An event for all ages. Sat 7 July 12-3pm. Hillside Community Centre, Cross Lane, Farnley.
Knitted Curiosites FREE!
Look out for knitting in unusual West Leeds locations throughout the festival - expect knitted cakes in the bakery, knitted veggies in the greengrocer and a sinister flock of knitted robins in the woods! Full locations details flisted here shortly... Sat 7-22 July.
West Leeds Rugby World Cup FREE!
Come along to cheer as West Leeds Primary Schools battle it out on the rugby field for t-shirts, medals and of course the World Cup! Sun 8 July 10am-12pm. Crawshaw School, Robin Lane, Pudsey.
The Amazing Knitted Shed Goes On Tour FREE!
Unbelievably we have knitted an entire full sized garden shed! Knitted doors, walls, roof - the lot! Artist Liz Noble and an army of enthusiastic local knitters have been non-stop knitting to create a textile masterpiece with a sense of humour. Don't miss this wonderful exhibit of wooliness - come and see the shed at:
PUDSEY PARK Church Lane, Pudsey: Sun 8 July 12-5pm
BRAMLEY IRONMONGERS AND DIY Town St, Bramley: Fri 13 July
ARMLEY MILLS MUSEUM Canal St, Armley: Mon 30 July onwards
Festival Radio 87.7FM FREE!
On-air and online at www.interplayleeds.co.uk Tune-in to shows from Norman Records, Rock and Roll Circus, exv3ctor, Rusty Staples Rubbish Disco and The Silver Hammer Gated Community Radio Hour. Also listen out for plays created by
participants from BARCA and Farnley Park High, local news from our team of roving reporters, comedy quizzes and schools programming. Visit the festival website www.interplayleeds.co.uk for full radio listings. Mon 9-20 July 1-10pm.
This Land - The Story of Woody Guthrie by Interplay
Staged within an intimate dome tent, this play tells the lifestory of folk singer Woody Guthrie in 1930's America. Live music and up close action make this storytelling at its best. This Land has just returned from a successful 60-date UK tour, so don't miss this rare chance to see the show in Leeds. Tue 10, Wed 11, Thur 12 July 7.30pm, tickets £5. For booking and venue details call 0113 2638556.
Festival Drive-in Movies UNBELIEVABLY FREE!
If you missed them last year then here is another chance! Three nights of real Drive-in Movies at Pudsey Civic Car Park. Park up, tune in your radio, stock up on popcorn and experience the thrill of the drive-in. Take your pick of these classic films to enjoy on a lovely long summer evening. Comfy seats guaranteed. 10pm start.
The Adventures of Priscilla Queen of the Desert (15) Thur 12 July 10pm
Psycho (15) (orig. version) * Fri 13 July 10pm
Saturday Night Fever (PG) Sat 14 July 10pm
All showing at Pudsey Civic Hall car park, Dawsons Corner, Pudsey.
* not for scaredy cats
EAT He-re
For one night only, Letting Agents He-re will be transformed into an exciting, upmarket restaurant. At last you will be able to wine and dine on our beloved Armley Town Street, with food prepared by Matt Walker, former Chef of MalMaison. Bring your own tipple of choice! Thur 12 July 7.30pm. He-re, 49 Town St, Armley. Limited tickets £12 per head from 0113 225 1616 or www.tatb.blogspot.com
Hop on the Bandwagon FREE!
Look out for the mobile library buses as you'll get more than a Mills and Boon during festival fortnight. Live musicians will be touring with the buses to entertain you as you browse. There has never been a better time to join the library.
Thur 12 July 11.45am St Michaels Court, Bramley
Mon 16 July 2.30pm Western Grove, Wortley
Thur 19 July 2.15pm Galloway Court, Pudsey, 3.15pm
The Farmers, Pudsey
Thur 19 July 6.30pm New Farnley Community Centre, New Farnley
Fri 20 July 1.30pm Wesley Terrace, Rodley
The Lancasterian School Room Village Fete FREE!
Opened by Calendar presenter Kate Webster, the afternoon will be filled with fun: an artist workshop; Parks Ranger workshop; local gardening club workshop; children's activities including face painting and balloon twisting; Clifton Youth Brass Band; an
exhibition; raffles; cakes; BBQ and our popular cream teas. Sat 14 July 2-4pm. The Lancasterian School Room, Low Moor Side Lane, New Farnley.
Picnic at Armley Mills - Turveyworld Dance FREE!
If you are feeling hungry for a performance experience with a difference, then treat yourself to this stunning visual feast in the grounds and buildings of Armley Mills. Picnic at Armley Mills will involve ten dancers and live music in a mouth-watering and
ultimately very exciting dance performance. Inspired by the striking architecture of the Armley Mills building, the dancers will transport you to a world of sight smell and tastes in a sumptuous and delicious experience. Sat 14 and Sun 15 July 1pm (bring your own pop and sarnies). Armley Mills, Canal Road, Armley.
Art1st Open Studio Weekend FREE!
This working studio in Stanningley is throwing open its doors, so drop in to view the artwork and share drinks and nibbles with the artists. Sat 14 and Sun 15 July 10am-4pm. Hainsworth Mill Art Gallery, 140 Town St, Stanningley (above Hainsworth Mill Shop).
Landmark Projections Night FREE!
For the last six months photographers have been collecting images of West Leeds on the Flickr website for a night of ginormous projections onto the gloriously iconic Gasometer at Armley Gyratory. Come and see the biggest illuminated photo album in the city on Sunday 15 July 10pm. Tong Road, New Wortley.
Brass in t' Bath
A brass band concert like no other. Pack your cossie and take a dip. This unusual concert will take place during normal public swimming sessions with the band on the poolside and a swimming audience. No running, no bombing, no heavy petting - and what will it sound like when you put your head under the water? Sun 15 July 3pm. Bramley Baths, Broad Lane, Bramley (normal swim charges apply).
Urban Fusion Music Gig - Featuring Middleman
Professional and amateur musicians from Armley, Bramley and Stanningley perform live sets, fusing together a range of musical styles and cultural backgrounds. Local favourites Middleman will round off the evening, recently signed, catch them locally while you can. This gig will be transmitted live on festival radio. Wed 18 July 7.30pm. £2 entry. Interplay, Armley Ridge Rd, Armley.
Mexican Drum Party at He-re
It just doesn't get more entertaining than this amigos! A night of Mexican food, drink, music and entertainment at the Letting Agents He-re. Entertainment by local drumming guru Dave Mitchell plus a free drumming workshop! Free shot of tequila on
arrival for Mexican dress so don't forget your poncho! Bring your own tipple of choice! Weds 18th July 7.30pm. £5 on the door. He-re, 49 Town Street, Armley.
Bramley Carnival Revival 2007 FREE!
A fun filled family extravaganza. Sat 21- Sun 22 July
Bramley Park, Town St, Bramley.
www.bramleycarnival.co.uk
Greenside Primary School
African Tales remixed by the kids in Pudsey in a music and dance exploration of different cultures. Evening performance by invitation only.
I Love West Leeds at Wortley High School
Wortley High and their feeder primaries are turning the whole school upside down to celebrate the festival, they will be knitting, breakdancing, performing, hunting treasure and generally having a great time showing off to each other. By invitation only.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Festival Mutterings 6
I think i may be a little stressed - I woke up from a dream this morning that the billboard poster by mikes carpets was pealing off and i only paid for a single print so couldn't do anything about it.
There is just over a month to go and my events are perilously stacked up like a giant card tower on a table with three legs. The brochure text has been signed off and goes to the printer tomorrow, now all that remains is to firm up a few details. When i say few...im in complete denial about the scale of what i have left to do but hey thats half the fun surely. Surely?
I could tell you about all the things that aren't done yet but its too big a burden to give to anyone else and i daren't say it out loud in an attempt to keep my sanity intact.
Of course it will all be fine it always is and inbetween the hysteria i'm remarkably zen.
If anyone would like to volunteer as a festival wife for the next month to cook my tea and make sure im leaving the house in cleanish clothes that would be lovely...
Thursday, May 17, 2007
festival mutterings 5
i cant move in the office for knitting! In fact neither can anyone else and its becoming a bit of an issue. Garter stitch keeps appearing on photocopied documents and dawn keeps handing out balls of wool instead of petty cash. AND PEOPLE KEEP TOUCHING THINGS! sorry im just getting nervous that one of the knitted squares from little johnny/britney/mercedes/hummer is going to get lost.
I've only just recovered from the pot idol project and that was two years ago. We had hundreds of clay models made by the good people of west leeds that were going to be displayed in the park. All lovingly handcrafted, then chucked in the back of a transit van and driven at high speed to farnley, when the back doors opened it was carnage, arms and limbs everywhere! It took two people and a lot of superglue to put them all back together before their owners came looking, and even then we had to have a small sectioned off area of random limbs.
Now a little girl came to find her figure and searched and searched and couldn't find it. We had to dispatch a vehicle with siren (dawns nissan micra) back to base, where the figure was found and driven (nestled on the front seat in bubble wrap) straight to the stage for a tearful reunion with its owner.
So hopefully you can see why i'm nervous for the safety of my knitting..
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Put on Your Plus Fours for a suburban night of pleasure
Yes Indeedi folks
Next Thursday 24th May, 8pm on heralds a spring in the step towards a social event to remember...
We thought you might like to join other Armley Dwellers in a rather exciting location overlooking wonderful hills and valleys. Upon reaching old Benjamin Gott's summer residence drink in the municipal splendour of the old house, before reaching the bar where the gals are pretty and the men are fly!
So with nice reasonably priced refreshment and a pool table that costs 20p a go, what's not to like!
There is no agenda, we've hired it, come alone, with friends or don't come - the choice is yours...
Click on the link to the right hand side of the page for more specific details and to let us know your thoughts and intentions!
Toodle pip
So what Ale would be acceptable?>
Knit one perl one (purl?)
Dear Festival Knitters..
We are having a get-together/stitch up this coming Saturday (19 May) at
Armley Mills Museum, Canal Rd, Armley, Leeds.
The afternoon will be very informal and I promise cake and cups of tea.
We will have lots of wool and patterns for bugs, flowers, veg etc and
I'll bring along the shed knitting to give you a glimpse of how well we
are doing!
Its free, so please drop in and bring friends/family and kids too and
pass this message on to anyone you think may be interested. 1.30 - 4pm at Armley Mills
With best wishes
Jane
ps. beginners very welcome
Jane Earnshaw
I Love West Leeds - Festival Director
M: 0789 631 8657 T: 0113 263 8556
Interplay Theatre Trust
Company reg no: 1001229
Registered in England and Wales
Reg: Office Address: Armley Ridge Road, Leeds, LS12 3LE
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Fancy a day or night at the Museum?
The Armley Mills Industrial Museum invites you to spend a little time in their lovely dinky cinema! a 1930's 'Palace Picture House' Bet you didn't know they had one? Well it's sooo cute!
Come along, friends and family welcome this weekend
Friday 18th May - Sunday 20th May
Armley Mills
Viewing times
Fri & Sat 11.00, 1.30, 4.00, 6.30pm
Sun 1.00, 3.15pm
Seating limited, please call Judith Ferris to book your places.
Tel: 0113 263 7861 email: judith.ferris@leeds.gov.uk
Location:
Armley Mills, Canal Road, Armley, Leeds LS12 2QF.
Tel: (0113) 263 7861
Fax: (0113) 263 7861
email: armley.mills@leeds.gov.uk
2 miles west of Leeds City Centre off the A65.
Apologies for the frequency of posts
Thursday, May 10, 2007
festival mutterings 4
Its all gone a bit bonkers around here as i am trying to tie down events to go into the festival brochure. This basically involves getting people and organisations to say yes to things happening. And while i'm trying to do this a young man is trying to kick the door in to the building and the phone is ringing none stop...
I'm also trying to sort out brochure distribution, which is a nightmare to do well and no matter how many thousand of the things you print i guarantee you will get people folding their arms and saying "well how come i didn't know about it". This is one of the few things you can be absolutely sure of. Luckily im developing a thicker skin about the whole thing and now i even take pleasure in complaints. Though i have to say the funniest complaint i ever heard was when i worked in the music department at the council and somebody wrote in complaining that the audience were clapping too soon.
ps. I've got a billboard this year...
I'm also trying to sort out brochure distribution, which is a nightmare to do well and no matter how many thousand of the things you print i guarantee you will get people folding their arms and saying "well how come i didn't know about it". This is one of the few things you can be absolutely sure of. Luckily im developing a thicker skin about the whole thing and now i even take pleasure in complaints. Though i have to say the funniest complaint i ever heard was when i worked in the music department at the council and somebody wrote in complaining that the audience were clapping too soon.
ps. I've got a billboard this year...
Sunday, May 06, 2007
Now this is what I call creative!
For more wonderful pictures head over to Flickr to see not just the Lady Mayoress's stream of happy pictures but also the work of photographers who know a thing or two about how to take pictures!My Set can be found by going to flickr.com one of the best ways I have found to share photos, and the people who are in the Leeds Group meet regularly too! Some even come to the Tea Dances and one member won the Charming Armley Calendar Competition. Anyone can join, just point, shoot, and upload!
Go to Flickr. com search for the Leeds Group and look for the work of the Lady Mayoress of Armley and Briggate. I would paste a link and make it easy but my paste function does not work right now!
AHA here we go click this .......... and this .................. and this .................
Angie and Donna are truly geniuses, their events attract people from all over town and beyond, for a host of reasons, to dance, to dress up in their vintage finery, to sip Pimms and gorge on the lightest Victoria sponges, or just to bring the wee ones to have fun in the sun!
We salute you!
Next event is during the I Love West Leeds Festival in July,and after that they are off to Shambala Festival to spread a bit more jam, cream, and fun across proceedings. More on their websites which are
www.myspace.com/marvellousarmleyteadance
www.themarvellousteadancecompany.co.uk
Thursday, May 03, 2007
festival mutterings 3
im not so sure about this blogging thing. Is anyone out there really interested in what i have to say. If i go on the evidence of my daily life then probably not!
But in for a penny in for a pound...which is surely a phrase just waiting to be used on those gambling billboards.
The arts council has decided to trust us with spending their money for another year. This unbelievably fantastic news means amongst other things we can put huge photographs of Casey Orrs incredible journey to the states on the wall of the canal at Armley mills. It also means my stress levels have just gone through the roof and sleep is a thing of the past, don't get me wrong i dont seem to be getting any work done but i've definately got more grey hair than i did last week.
Our radio projects have started and people have signed up which is an unbelieveable relief and makes it worth the time spent flyering the estate and tower blocks of new wortley. I am now slightly more sympathetic to pizza flyer deliverers as i know what damage a cheap letter box can do to a girls hands...
But in for a penny in for a pound...which is surely a phrase just waiting to be used on those gambling billboards.
The arts council has decided to trust us with spending their money for another year. This unbelievably fantastic news means amongst other things we can put huge photographs of Casey Orrs incredible journey to the states on the wall of the canal at Armley mills. It also means my stress levels have just gone through the roof and sleep is a thing of the past, don't get me wrong i dont seem to be getting any work done but i've definately got more grey hair than i did last week.
Our radio projects have started and people have signed up which is an unbelieveable relief and makes it worth the time spent flyering the estate and tower blocks of new wortley. I am now slightly more sympathetic to pizza flyer deliverers as i know what damage a cheap letter box can do to a girls hands...
Saturday, April 28, 2007
Blurry Pictures and Soiree round up!
If wishes were horses.........................
Okay the quality of these images do not do the night justice, what can we say, was the photographer under the influence of a heady concoction of 70's food, mateus rose, lovely friendly folk, and talk of boob enhancing bras?
Anyway The XLadyM was a little partial to the snowballs etc and can vaguely recount her night, but has been told that about 80 or so people drifted along and enjoyed meeting each other, thinking about the potential use of the Sunshine Space for events, art and the like. There is a huge potential with the space, and we thank you for your contributions and thoughts about what it could be!
We will be posting a series of questions here, but would love for anyone to take a seat on this blog if they want to say something about what they are doing, ideas they may have for collaborations, or events etc they want to publicise. Eventually we will create a webspace for everyone to contribute, it's early days yet.
Big thanks are due to Chris the host and owner, Phil who got it ready in time for the event, Sam for his catering, Dave and Anna who made it look great, turning up for a party and getting roped in! (Anna vacuumed! and little Christie charmed the pants off everyone)Loubie for her social butterflying and super power stickering, James for helping cart stuff down, Frank for putting up with the madness, Maria for ice, pot pourri, bottle openers etc, Ange for the super cool red ice bucket and to everyone for coming and donating booze and food so generously.
Okay the quality of these images do not do the night justice, what can we say, was the photographer under the influence of a heady concoction of 70's food, mateus rose, lovely friendly folk, and talk of boob enhancing bras?
Anyway The XLadyM was a little partial to the snowballs etc and can vaguely recount her night, but has been told that about 80 or so people drifted along and enjoyed meeting each other, thinking about the potential use of the Sunshine Space for events, art and the like. There is a huge potential with the space, and we thank you for your contributions and thoughts about what it could be!
Next challenge is to work out a way to make the place pay for itself, keep it flexible, and open to all sorts of creative endeavour. So your views and feedback are vitally important. If you click the following link you can add your t'pence worth on the flickr comments....
We will be posting a series of questions here, but would love for anyone to take a seat on this blog if they want to say something about what they are doing, ideas they may have for collaborations, or events etc they want to publicise. Eventually we will create a webspace for everyone to contribute, it's early days yet.
Big thanks are due to Chris the host and owner, Phil who got it ready in time for the event, Sam for his catering, Dave and Anna who made it look great, turning up for a party and getting roped in! (Anna vacuumed! and little Christie charmed the pants off everyone)Loubie for her social butterflying and super power stickering, James for helping cart stuff down, Frank for putting up with the madness, Maria for ice, pot pourri, bottle openers etc, Ange for the super cool red ice bucket and to everyone for coming and donating booze and food so generously.
Wow that was like being at the oscars! Stay tuned for more news, but please do let me know if you want to post on a regular or irregular basis.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
What kind of GURU are you?
A creative one?
Fancy a chance to meet fellow dwellers of Armley, who would term themselves semi creative to full on arty pants?
Mmmm put that way it sounds scary, and perhaps you would be right. Anyway if a chance to sup some cheap sherry and enjoy a vol au vont (however you say them) isn't up your street then what would be?
Click on the link on the right if you want to spend your Thurs evening hob nobbing with the people who always turn up for a free drink- even if they have to bring it themselves. More will be revealed.....
Fancy a chance to meet fellow dwellers of Armley, who would term themselves semi creative to full on arty pants?
Mmmm put that way it sounds scary, and perhaps you would be right. Anyway if a chance to sup some cheap sherry and enjoy a vol au vont (however you say them) isn't up your street then what would be?
Click on the link on the right if you want to spend your Thurs evening hob nobbing with the people who always turn up for a free drink- even if they have to bring it themselves. More will be revealed.....
Monday, April 16, 2007
Festival mutterings 2
Well its been a week of peaks and troughs as we say in Lancashire.
Funding still looms fairly large, coming out of the dark corner every now and then to slap me about a bit before i kick it back into the shadows. A rejection letter from Children in Need was probably not a surprise when it landed but was still gutting because the project would have been a lovely one for all concerned. Still, as a good friend of mine said, the only person ever heard of to get money out of Children in Need is Terry Wogan.
The army of knitters helping to knit the festival shed is growing with knitters from across Leeds and beyond to Lincolnshire, Huddersfield, Manchester, Sheffield,Sowerby Bridge and not least my mum in Darwen.
The conversations im having with complete strangers about knitting are inspiring and i had a great day out with Liz Noble (my enlisted knitting guru) last week driving around west Leeds scouting for knitting locations. Our ideas may have occasionally got out of hand, not least when we were in the woods in Stanningley planning midnight tree climbing to put knitting in the top branches... Expect knitted fish fingers and a knitted mop and bucket..the rest is a secret for now!
ps. If anyone has a really long set of ladders i could borrow...
Funding still looms fairly large, coming out of the dark corner every now and then to slap me about a bit before i kick it back into the shadows. A rejection letter from Children in Need was probably not a surprise when it landed but was still gutting because the project would have been a lovely one for all concerned. Still, as a good friend of mine said, the only person ever heard of to get money out of Children in Need is Terry Wogan.
The army of knitters helping to knit the festival shed is growing with knitters from across Leeds and beyond to Lincolnshire, Huddersfield, Manchester, Sheffield,Sowerby Bridge and not least my mum in Darwen.
The conversations im having with complete strangers about knitting are inspiring and i had a great day out with Liz Noble (my enlisted knitting guru) last week driving around west Leeds scouting for knitting locations. Our ideas may have occasionally got out of hand, not least when we were in the woods in Stanningley planning midnight tree climbing to put knitting in the top branches... Expect knitted fish fingers and a knitted mop and bucket..the rest is a secret for now!
ps. If anyone has a really long set of ladders i could borrow...
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
Festival Mutterings
After several nudges from the honourable lady mayoress i have finally got round to writing the first of my weekly posts (weekly! im sure i never agreed to that..).
So lets start with the big stuff first...
It seems poignant to be beginning a creative community blog in the week when the arts council announces a 30 percent cut in its arts grants budget. You would be forgiven for not being aware that this has happened as the press dont seem to be that interested in the story. I was just beginning to think that as a creative community we were making progress at getting the power holders to understand the value of creativity and how vital it is to a community, but maybe we weren't as far ahead as i had hoped. A third slashed off the grants for the arts budget will affect a lot of artists and organisations including those in Leeds.
I would like to think it will just get creamed off the big elitist arts orgs and im sure they will have their grants reduced slightly but while their post-it note quota may have to be reduced it will be little orgs and individual artists that go under and communities that suffer.
Too ranty for a first post? i promise the next will be more lighthearted and will include "funny things i heard at the forum!"
Now get out there and bang some shields...
Read the Guardian article here
So lets start with the big stuff first...
It seems poignant to be beginning a creative community blog in the week when the arts council announces a 30 percent cut in its arts grants budget. You would be forgiven for not being aware that this has happened as the press dont seem to be that interested in the story. I was just beginning to think that as a creative community we were making progress at getting the power holders to understand the value of creativity and how vital it is to a community, but maybe we weren't as far ahead as i had hoped. A third slashed off the grants for the arts budget will affect a lot of artists and organisations including those in Leeds.
I would like to think it will just get creamed off the big elitist arts orgs and im sure they will have their grants reduced slightly but while their post-it note quota may have to be reduced it will be little orgs and individual artists that go under and communities that suffer.
Too ranty for a first post? i promise the next will be more lighthearted and will include "funny things i heard at the forum!"
Now get out there and bang some shields...
Read the Guardian article here
Friday, March 30, 2007
Get together?
This site is rarely visited currently, due to lack of content, but that could change.
Jane Earnshaw the director of I Love West Leeds Festival would like to contribute a weekly digest in the run up to the I Love West Leeds Festival
If you are creative in any way shape or form and would like to be a vital part of this blog being interesting and engaging you can be. You can post any time you like on whatever bit of creativity you wish.
What is creativity anyway, is it just about making things? Or is it about thinking about things differently? Cross fertilisation of ideas, collaboration, participation?
Get in touch jamsiren (at) thearmleytouristboard.com
Jane Earnshaw the director of I Love West Leeds Festival would like to contribute a weekly digest in the run up to the I Love West Leeds Festival
If you are creative in any way shape or form and would like to be a vital part of this blog being interesting and engaging you can be. You can post any time you like on whatever bit of creativity you wish.
What is creativity anyway, is it just about making things? Or is it about thinking about things differently? Cross fertilisation of ideas, collaboration, participation?
Get in touch jamsiren (at) thearmleytouristboard.com
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