Big Cat Group, PR and Marketing trailblazers

Please follow the link for the new Big Cat blog, thanks!

2009-01-25T09:14:00.001Z

www.bigcatgroup.wordpress.com

Even in his 200th year, Darwin has never been so relevant

2009-01-14T09:10:00.002Z

As anyone that hasn’t been living in a cave is aware, it is 200 years since the birth of one of mankind’s favourite sons, Charles Darwin.

Any self respecting scientist/atheist/human being will agree that his theories have completely changed the way we view the world and ourselves, but I think sometimes we forget how survival of the fittest really does apply to almost everything we do.

The simple mathematics that anything that is not good enough dies out, and therefore brings about constantly improving standards and fresh competition, has never been more evident than in today’s credit crunch.

For a long time, businesses have been getting away with poor bookkeeping and financial management, keeping themselves afloat by revaluing their property or topping up their loans. This basically cheated the ‘survival of the fittest’ system and it has now come up and bitten back in a big way.

To survive in the new climate, companies need to adapt to the situation and use the crisis to their benefit.

As an example, my family has been selling their milk (we’re farmers) to a company that was top heavy in management and basically inefficient in how they balanced their books resulting in them charging over inflated prices to cover their backs, leaving a huge amount of disgruntled farmers in their wake.

Here’s where evolution comes in.

A few months ago, a representative of a new dairy turned up on our doorstep. The dairy saved money by having an efficient staff model and not spending money on expensive chemical tests (that search for harmless bacteria and butterfat) and could therefore offer more money for our milk as well as an effective sales transfer and good customer service. Needless to say where my family now takes its business. The said dairy is currently cleaning up with business and set to make an absolute fortune over the next few years, by adapting to the situation and, more importantly, DOING IT QUICKLY.

Businesses have got away with inefficiency for too long in the world of easy credit and now only the sharpest and easily adaptable businesses are going to survive the crisis.

With respect to everyone that has suffered as a result of the crisis (all of us), there is a slight silver lining that industry standards and practice are sure to improve, because if they don’t, they’ll be gone before you can say ‘0% interest’.

The Big Cat blog has now moved

2009-01-07T13:05:00.004Z

Please visit www.bigcatgroup.wordpress.com to read more insightful and generally lovely blog posts.

Mining for internet gold

2009-01-07T12:56:00.002Z

The UK’s social media industry is like the goldmines of the USA 200 years ago. Basically, online is the future; for how long we don’t know, but it is about to arrive in a big wave and engulf everything that came before it.

As with early American prospectors, the first one to find the first rich seam and sell it is likely to become a very rich person indeed.

Although the web has been a prominent part in our lives for over 15 years, we still haven’t answered the age old question of how do people make money from it? Obviously Google, Yahoo etc have been making money for donkeys, as have website designers and such like, but how does the common agency use social media to make money?

Twitter, Stumble, Wordpress, Friendfeed, Digg and Flickr are almost days away from being the new marketing tools for businesses and a playground for marketing and PR agencies. For as long as we can remember, PR and Marketing agencies have used newspapers, magazines, radio and television to position clients in the public eye. Editorial and adverts would be placed within these domains and the better the domain, the more horses would be brought to the water, so to speak. The internet has now overtaken newspapers and radio, second now only to TV as the most popular way to access news. The ‘apps’ above have the potential to be highly effective marketing tools to reach large target markets and individuals, linking them to a chosen blog, website or platform.

In short, there is currently a huge race on to find the best way to market companies in the online space and whoever can reach (or build) the biggest number of fans/followers/advocates/customers through these apps and sell their services to clients first will be the modern day equivalent to the 19th century American prospectors.

Where next for the Custard Factory and other independent venues

2008-12-19T14:27:00.002Z

In the last month or so, The Custard Factory or more specifically Space 2 has hosted acts such as Sugarhill Gang, Public Enemy, Fleet Foxes, Pendulum and Amanda Palmer , bascially world reknowned performers. There only lies one problem, Fleet Foxes and Pendulum aside, all the major acts are either past their prime(Sugarhill Gang, Public Enemy) or in a different guise to where they made their name (Amanda Palmer). A 1800 capacity venue like Space 2, put simply, will never be able to attract the chart topping acts simply because the venue can't house the amount of people needed to cover the cost required to aquire such a band.

Maybe that's not such a bad thing.

Sure the Custard Factory could never compete with the NIA or Carling in terms of footfall and therefore artist size but on the other hand it opens a market for alternative acts that are gaining more credibility and popularity due to the new downloading phenomenon. Smaller alternative acts that previously only has a small hardcore group of followers now attract wider audiences due to the internet giving them greater exposure and accessabilty. The Custard Factory and other independent venues offer the perfect stage for such acts and hold the neccessary kudos to attract bands such as the Fleet Foxes and others.

So where from here for a venue that is reaching its terminal velocity in terms of ability to attract artists that consistently fill up the venue. Does it host developing bands at the risk of poor ticket sales or does it aim to in greater bands past their peak, cashing in on the onslaught of newly reformed legends (Stone Roses, Blur etc)? Can Space 2 open out into the North Yard, or open Gibb Street into an open air venue? Does it move away from music hosting? Basically how can the Custard Factory continue to grow despite its physical limitations.

Answers on a postcard to the Big Cat offices.

Custard factory’s Old Library is officially the 10th best venue in the UK

2008-12-15T14:49:00.001Z

Rejoicing on the streets of Digbeth, ticker tap parades across Eastside and Birmingham comes to a stand still to salute the Old Library’s welcome surprise entry at #10 in a list of the best venues in the UK, compiled by Event magazine, the Qur’an of the events and hospitality industry.

The poll was voted for by people within the events industry and the high placing is a testament to the high regard that Birmingham is now held in, particularly with regards to its events industry.

The Old Library has come a long way in the last 15 years, considering its picturesque vaults and gothic architecture were tragically set to be bulldozed until it was saved in the early90’s by the Custard Factory Quarter in partnership with ERDF and English Heritage. Its rise to a respected and widely known conference, exhibition and wedding venue is representative of Birmingham’s events and creative industry growth since the early 9o’s. The 19th century building now has 3 phase electricity, lighting bars and ISDN connections capabilities making the vintage surrounds a very modern venue.

The Custard Factroy itself is grrowing in iconic status with everyday that passes, with more and more people viewing it as the flagship for the new found creativity that is becoming the outstanding feature of modern Birmingham.

Creative City Awards

2008-12-09T10:29:00.003Z

The roaring success that was last weeks Creative City Awards has now been posted on Biz-tv.net. The link is below, enjoy.
http://www.biz-tv.net/2008/12/creative-city-2008

Old Library makes Event magazine Top 20 venues

2008-12-09T09:37:00.003Z

As the title would suggest, the Custard Factory’s Old Library has been shortlisted for Event magazine’s top 20 venues in the UK. Sadly, we won’t know where it came until the new year, but I’m sure it will be pushing Wembley stadium close for the top spot.

Public Enemy “Gig of the year”

2008-12-09T09:28:00.002Z

Not my words, or Flavour Flav’s or anyone else at Big Cat, but the words of the Express & Star no less, one of the most well read local newspapers in the country. I have to admit, despite my lack of knowledge of the group, I greatly enjoyed the gig and some of the contempory rap and hip hop artists would do well to take a few leaves from the PE book.

See review below by my friend and yours, Rita Maman:
Simply put, this was my gig of the year. Public Enemy’s (PE) only UK date on their 62nd tour before a packed Space 2.And to make things even better, their two and-a-half hour show began with It Takes A Nation Of Millions To Hold Us Back played in its entirety, 20 years on from its release.

The 50-year-old Chuck D clearly loves Birmingham and made a dedication to the legendary Hummingbird venue.Chuck was joined by Flavor Flav, complete with a trademark clock around his neck, S1Ws, DJ Lord and some fantastic guitarists. Remaining members were unable to fly over due to passport issues.

As one guitarist played an incredible solo another followed by paying tribute to his hero Barack Obama and a Brummie hero, Ozzy Osbourne.The riff to Black Sabbath’s Iron Man shouldn’t have come as a surprise as this is the band that invented rap metal when they recorded Bring The Noise with metallers Anthrax.The two frontmen rapped the track on the spot before Flavor jokingly asked ”don’t I sound like the record?”

Flavor was as hyperactive as ever, jumping into the crowd twice against Chuck’s advice, getting two fans on stage and holding a touching moment of silence for the victims in Mumbai.Former English and American leaders were slammed as the crowd was encouraged to keep its British identity and not turn into a ”radio/TV/movie nation” like the US.Chuck said he hoped that Obama’s reign would mean ”one world, one people”.

Dedications were made to UK hip hop, stars like the Beastie Boys who were the first act to tour with PE, missing bandmates like Terminator X and the ”five elements” - graffiti artists, breakdancers, MCs, rappers and DJs.Warm-up acts included DMC world champion DJ Switch and Mylz.The gig ended with Flavor staying on stage to make a heartfelt speech about the stupidity of prejudice as there is ”only one race, the human race”. As he changed back into a big fur coat fans sang along to Bob Marley’s One Love - a perfect ending to an amazing gig.

Big Cat destroy Rewired in Karoake blood bath

2008-11-28T11:19:00.003Z

Pad Thai in Holloway Head was the scene of one of the greatest sing offs in living memory, leaving thousands in awe and many more in bemusement as vocal gymnasts from Rewired, Maverick TV, Post & Mail and Big Cat trudged through some of the finest tracks commited to karoake.

Granted the battle was mainly between myself and Tara from Rewired, that doesn't smear any of the gloss on what was a sensational night and musical extravagence leaving not a dry seat in the house.

What was the most confusing aspect of the evening was the music videos behind the text which looking like the opening scenes of German porn movie. Other strange videos included Titanic running behind Vanilla Ice's classic 'Ice Ice baby' and home footage of two raindeers licking each other during my emotional rendition of 'All I want for Christmas is you' by Mariah Carey.

On the whole, a great night that did for music what Sweeney Todd did for hair dressing.

Julia South joins the Big Cat family

2008-11-28T10:19:00.000Z

Big Cat are delighted to welcome new Senior Business Development Manager Julia South.

Julia is an experienced salesperson with a strong portfolio and an impressive contact roster. Julia will be a key figure in the continued growth of Big Cat.

Big cat to host 'Clubbed' premiere

2008-11-28T09:06:00.002Z

Big Cat are proud to announce the successful tender win to event manage the premiere of independent movie, Clubbed.

The eagerly anticipated movie premieres early in the New Year and is a shining example of Big Cat’s versatility in delivering a wide range of events.

Without giving too much away, the movie focuses on a man who becomes entrenched in the seedy underworld of Britain’s nightclub industry after learning self defence and provide for his young daughters.

Myself and close colleagues went along to a pre screening, and I must admit it was very good. I would love to give more detail but obviously I don't want to let the cat out of the bag at this time. I will suggest that you should go down when it opens in January.

Big Cat will be working alongside Screen WM, who are major contributors to Clubbed, both financially and in sharing expertise.

PUBLIC ENEMY MAKE FRIENDS IN BIRMINGHAM

2008-11-24T17:06:00.002Z

Hip Hop giants Public Enemy, will make their first ever appearance in Birmingham at Digbeth’s iconic Custard Factory on 3 December.

Public Enemy first came to fame in the mid to late 80’s with hits such as ‘Don’t believe the hype’, ‘911 (is a joke)’, and ‘Black steel in the hour of chaos’ gaining a major worldwide fan base because of their politically charged lyrics and outspoken views on institutionalised racism in America. Public Enemy have gone on to define a generation of African American music and are established as one of the fathers of modern black music.

The performance at The Custard Factory is Public Enemy’s first gig in Birmingham and their appearance is testament to the growing musical culture in the country’s second city. With Public Enemy following The Sugarhill Gang’s appearance at Gigbeth in November, Birmingham will have hosted two of the most influential black artists of the last 25 years, in the space of one month.

Simon Jones, creative director of Custard Factory Spaces, says: “The Custard Factory has hosted some major international artists in 2008 such as Fleet Foxes and Basement Jaxx, and hosting Public Enemy is a great way to finish another highly successful year. It is also a big step forward for the music scene in Birmingham; venues in the city are starting to regularly host world renowned acts, not just from the UK but from all over the globe.”

For tickets visit http://www.theticketsellers.co.uk/ or call 0844 870 0000. Doors open at 7pm and last entry is at 11:30pm.

Tickets are on sale for £20, and are selling fast.

For more information on the Custard Factory Spaces please visit http://www.custardfactoryspaces.co.uk/

Shortlist of Nominations for Creative City Awards announced

2008-11-17T14:11:00.001Z

The 2008 Creative City Awards nominations have now been announced, with three finalists shortlisted for each of the six prestigious categories. But the nominees will have to wait until the official awards ceremony at the ICC on Saturday 29 November to find out if they have won, and to claim their £2,000 development prize.

Recognising and celebrating the best of Birmingham’s creative talent, the Creative City Awards is an annual event that showcases the cream of the creative industry crop to the city and wider UK. With over 9% of the city’s economic impact coming directly from the creative industries, The Creative City Awards are a prominent public platform, recognising and celebrating the economic impact this dynamic industry has on our region. Previous winners have included music studios, graphic design agencies, a regionally run style and culture magazine and theatre companies.

The Regional Outstanding Business Development Award:
Bubblequest Ltd
Internet Arrow
Digital Native Academy Ltd

The Birmingham Outstanding Business Development Award:
Electric Cinema
Substrakt Limited

Innovation Award:
Adwords Ltd
LHM Media
IE Design Consultancy Ltd

Outstanding Market Development Award:
Fierce Earth Ltd
D A Recordings Ltd
Fused

The Best Brand Award:
D A Recordings Ltd
Violectra trading as Unison Strings Ltd
IE Design

Creative Industries Award:
D A Recordings Ltd
Stan’s Cafe
Fierce Earth Ltd

The Creative City Awards will be attended by representatives of Birmingham and the region’s biggest and most influential creative businesses. The evening will be hosted by NEC chief Paul Thandi and BBC Breakfast presenter Kate Silverton; award presenters include Birmingham Post editor Marc Reeves, BBC television’s Ashley Blake and Radio 2’s Janice Long.

Gigbeth headliners wow the crowds

2008-11-08T20:44:00.002Z

I went into last Friday night with only a limited knowledge and opinion of some of Gigbeth's headlining acts, The Guillemots and The Young Knives but I left realising why they are two of the most popular acts among music fans in the UK.

Gigbeth 2008 was kicked off in rip rawing fashion by The Guillemots, who have developed an extremely strong following over the last few years with their thumping beats and charismatic Brummie front man, Fyfe Dangerfield. Their performance had the swagger and polish of one of the biggest alternative acts in Britain today, as well as a unique stage presence and immensely powerful sound.

Front man Fyfe bizarrely played the keyboard from a chair I would usually expect to see an old god fearing red kneck to be seated on outside a porch, sat like a coiled spring waiting for someone to look at him cock eyed, so as to validate blowing their heads off. The Guillemots had a similaraly assured presence to the Fleet Foxes (see review below) in that they performed with originality and assurance without pomposity or arrogance.

My stay with the band was short lived as, sadly I had to make my way over to the Barfly to direct Big Cat's photographer to the Young Knives performance.

The Young Knives are a band I keep a casual interest in as they come from the same country town as I do and my backstage patter with guitarist Henry Dartnall revealed that the man responsible for teaching guitar to him was, in fact, a lad I went to primary school with (I finally have a valid claim to fame that I can put on my tomb stone).
The Young Knives played a high energy set that had the intimate venue on its toes for the rest of the evening. The tightness and layout of the Barfly certainly contributed to the performance and the band felt a lot closer to the audience than the Guillemots had.

If I had to pick between the two acts, I would definately go for The Young Knives, and I know I'm biased, but their performance befitted what Gigbeth should be about, intamacy with the artists, high energy performance and just the fact that generally the mood around the place was heightened by their performance. Although The Guillemots do recieve a very creditable mention as I thoroughly enjoyed their set and they may have fallen foul of the fact that I had to leave after a couple of songs.

Hurray for Gigbeth!

Fleet Foxes impress at Space 2

2008-11-01T11:22:00.002Z

Anyone that has read my previous blog will know my thoughts towards the Fleet Foxes. Their original style, note perfect harmonies and baroque melody lines seperate them from almost any artist or band around today, at least any popular ones.

Before entering The Custard Factory's Space 2 last night, I had a very good idea of what to expect after listening to them periodically throughout the previous week. The Fleet Foxes are a band Birmingham should embrace. They have an understated creativity, and originality that Birmingham is now becoming recognised across the country for, as well as a dry sense of humour, that reared its head intermittantly throughout the evening.

Last night was a sell out and it was easy to see why. The Fleet Foxes have a very English quality, not just in their music but in their performance and stage manner. The lead man's first words to the audience joked about why the English don't celebrate Halloween, Thanksgiving and Bastile day. Although it wasn't the funniest banter i had ever heard, it was certainly a refreshing change to the bizarre historionics and drivvling irony that stained fellow American Amanda Palmer's performance a month ago, granted that the Mr Incredible look alike may have been responsible for that abominable display of jokesmithery.

Their performance was assured and confident but without the hint of pretention or pompositity that so often can bring down a band with an innovative twist.That statement is saying something, considering the group's guitarist played his instrument with a violin bow only ten minutes into the performance, bringing back memories of Jimmy Page at his height, and more absurdely the ingenius Spinal Tap parody that followed (although that involved playing a guitar with a violin).

Their music intrigues me into knowing who there influences are, such is the variation in the music. Medievil harmonies weaving in and out of folk melodies spread over thumping, at times almost rock and roll, beats, decorated with a bit of Neil Young, a trace of the old blues standards as well as the occassional late 70's prog rock device; all of which were delivered with precision and conviction.

The Seattle fivesome could become a metaphor for the bulging and burgeoning creative realisation currently going on in Birmingham, and it is fitting that last nights performance was delivered in the home of Birmingham's creative industries.

Fleet Foxes at the Custard Factory

2008-10-31T16:26:00.002Z

The Seattle fivesome come to the creative hub of Birmingham tonight, and I shall be along to cast my expert critical eye on their performance.

I have been listening to their album in the office this week and I am very much looking forward to experiencing them tonight. Their Baroque harmonies give them a unique appeal and I strongly suggest to anyone of the throngs of people that read this blog to be in attendance tonight.

In a such a dismal time for popular music, it is refreshing to hear a genuinely original band floating in the sea of abominable dross that recieves direct pollution from the x factor studios.

I will be documenting the gig in a no doubt inspirational review tomorrow when I lift my head above the hangover parapet.

Watch this space.

Perfect place to go over half term weekend and it's only one week away!!

2008-10-16T13:11:00.004+01:00

Life size Robots, big screen computer gaming, animations, films, sonic sound systems, horror workshops and all things digital provide the perfect free day out for families at Millennium Point from 23rd – 26th October

Hello digital comes to Birmingham's Millennium Point from October 23rd to 26th, offering a free day out at one of the city's most exciting and interactive events. Hello Digital is The Midlands' first digital festival, celebrating the awe inspiring possibilities of the modern world and digital age.

Dance with a life sized robot called Titan, walk around a giant field of light in Millennium Point's main atrium, go head-to-head with the latest games on a giant screen, be blown away a wall of sound reverberating sonic waves around your head & communicate with the four corners of the Earth at the smallest touch of a button, Hello Digital is a breathtaking adventure into the extraordinary capabilities of today.

Hello Digital takes place on the 23rd – 26th October at Millennium Point, is open to people of all ages and is completely free.

Hello Digital provides excitement for all the family with a superb blend of interactive fun, gaming, education and workshops. From robotics to communications, films to gaming, animations to installations, Hello Digital is an electrifying four day showcase of sights and sounds.
Activity taking place at Hello Digital includes:

Titan the Robot – Titan is an 8ft Robot that will be entertaining the Hello Digital crowds at Millennium Point. With his swift and life like movement, Titan's cheeky robotic antics will have you staring in jaw dropped awe as the futuristic behemoth sings, dances and jokes with the public.

Games Zone - Compete head to head with your friends and play the latest games on the Hello Digital giant screen.

Killriculum – Hello Digital will host the exclusive premier screenings of the Killriculum project, 10 short films of nightmarish tales from the Wes Cravens of the future. Created by a broad range of young people from across the region, these showcase films will run alongside a children's workshop where young people learn about the gory ins and outs of making a modern horror film.

Baskerville, the animated film – A motion graphics animated film celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Baskerville typeface and a fascinating look at the life and works of its creator, John Baskerville. A video documentation of 11 contributors creating his typeface is being developed into a series of 11 animated films, which form the basis of a large scale HD multi-screen installation at Millennium Point.

Field of Light – A beautifully created illuminated field of light, made up from 120 low energy glow lights, will colonise the main atrium at Millennium Point. A breathtakingly tranquil creation in the heart of a bustling city.

Film Dash – Film Dash is a break through project where aspiring film makers have been set the challenge to create their own short films in just 48 hours. Each production lasts for up to 5minutes and pays homage to the renowned local film producer, Sir Michael Balcon, who is best know for his work at the Ealing Studios and his production of Orson Welles 39 Steps. Hello Digital will be showing exclusive screenings of Film Dash's best productions.

Film Dash

2008-10-15T17:14:00.002+01:00

Film Dash: Digital Galore! is a challenging new concept where aspiring film makers are given just 48hours to create their own 5 minute shorts. The project is part of the Hello Digital festival and has been organised to pay homage to the esteemed Birmingham born film producer Sir Michael Balcon, who in the 1950’s set up the experimental film funds to provide creative opportunities for new film makers to demonstrate their innovative talent and ambition.

Budding directors, actors and scriptwriters are being challenged to pool their creative talents and produce a short film from between 1-5minutes in length. They can use any equipment at their disposal; hand held cameras, home movie making equipment or even their mobile phones, and have completely free reign of subject matter. The only stipulation is that each film must include a predetermined reference to the life and work of Sir Michael Balcon.

The winning Film Dash production will be shown at the Odeon Cinema on New Street, as part of the Michael Balcon project. The other Film Dash films including the winner will be showcased at Millennium Point as part of the Hello Digital festival.

The Michael Balcon project will consist of an introductory speech by Sir Michael Baclon’s daughter Jill Balcon along with a full cinema screening of the classic Ealing comedy Kind Hearts and Coronets (1949) directed by Robert Hamer and produced by Sir Michael Balcon.

Tickets are free, just contact Roger at www.swishproductions.co.uk and the screening will begin at 7pm promptly.

Chris Unitt, Coordinator of Film Dash: Digital Galore! says: "Film Dash is a great way for amateur film enthusiasts to really get involved in film making with a fun 'crash course' in all the processes that go into making a motion picture. Birmingham has an extremely rich and varied film history and the Film Dash project is a fantastic way to pay homage to those who have played an integral part in the region's cultural landscape. It is also a great way to introduce a new breed of film maker to key individuals such as Sir Michael Balcon."

Useful weblinks
Website: http://filmdash.wordpress.com/
Facebook: http://www.new.facebook.com/inbox/#/group.php?gid=25373142419
Twitter feed: http://twitter.com/filmdash
Hello Digital blog: http://blog.hellodigital.net/2008/10/48-hour-film-challenge

Hello World, Birmingham's first international digital conference, opens at Hello Digital festival

2008-10-14T17:02:00.002+01:00

Speakers from some of the biggest names in digital media including Pixar, Channel 4, MySpace & Flickr come to Birmingham on October 23rd & 24th as part of the city's first international digital conference, Hello World.

Running alongside the Hello Digital festival showcase at Millennium Point, Hello World is free to attend and will give businesses from across the region the rare chance to meet and question some of the most influential names in the digital media industry.

Hello World will also include the first public appearance from Channel 4's new Head of 4iP, Tom Loosemore. 4iP is a pilot £50 million creative fund that aims to re-invent how publicly-valuable content is conceived, funded and delivered for British audiences on new media platforms. At Hello World Tom Loosemore will be talking alongside Channel 4's Director of Nations & Regions, Stuart Cosgrove, about their strategy for 4iP and how people can access the creative fund.
Activity at Hello World will include:

Thursday 23 October
Session 1 Gaming gets serious: Exploring serious games
Geoff Henderson, Director of Digital Native Academy Ltd & LearnPlay Foundation Ltd, and Matt Dunn, Business Development Manager of Fish in a Bottle, will be speaking and answering questions regarding The West Midlands leading role within the Serious Games industry. They will also be discussing the region's academic research into the field.

Session 2 Doing business in a digital world
This panel session will focus on the commercial potential of digital media and online marketing, and feature Joy Armitage, B&I Interactive Manager of Cadbury plc.

Session 3 Exploring the revolution in content production and distribution
Faintheart was the world's first user-generated movie with users of the world's largest online community, MySpace, playing an integral part in every stage of the filmmaking process from directing the film, to joining the cast, submitting music for the soundtrack, or being part of the production crew. James Fabricant, Director of Business Development and Media, Europe, at MySpace.com will be joining a panel led by Screen WM to discuss whether this marks the dawn of a new era of user-generated content in mainstream media?

Session 4: Digital Art in the Public Realm
Exploring the revolution in digital content development in the arts, this panel will discuss the huge opportunities for digital media to bring art to the public realm. Featuring Arts Council England West Midlands, award winning national touring theatre company, Pilot Theatre and Multistory, a charity that develops innovative participatory arts projects with communities and artists in the fields of regeneration.

Friday 24 October

Session 1 Digital debate: Do or die? Coping with convergence in a digital age
Magic Lantern Productions CEO Anthony Lilley, New Music Strategies' Andrew Dubber and guest speakers from BT & Cisco Systems will discuss and debate the impact of digital convergence across the public and private sectors.

Session 2 Developing the skills of the digital media generation
The Learning and Skills Council will be presenting and launching their new Talent2Market report. The Talent2Market report contains a review of the supply of education provision in the Creative and Media Sector.

Session 3 In conversation with Helen Champ, Director of Community at Flickr
Director of Community at Flickr, Heather Champ, oversees member activities for one of the worlds largest and most popular photo-sharing communities and will be taking part in a sixty minute Q&A session.

Session 4 In conversation with Michal Makerewicz, Pixar Animation Studios
Character Animator Michal Makarewicz from Pixar Animation Studios will be discussing his career and the role of animation in film in a sixty minute Q&A session.
Michal Makarewicz joined Pixar Animation Studios in 2003, where he has been an animator on such features as The Incredibles, Cars, Ratatouille, WALL*E and most recently the upcoming Disney Pixar feature, Up.

All activity at Hello World is free to attend, to register for your place please visit http://www.hellodigital.net/ and follow the links to Hello World.

Hello Digital festival Director Ruth Ward says, "Digital media is defining many aspects of our future and Hello World will give businesses a chance to hear more about the wealth of opportunities that digital holds for their own development, from an internationally renowned line up of speakers. It is a great privilege to be able to bring these spokespeople to Birmingham from across the globe, and Hello World promises to be an inspiring two days for all involved."

New headliners announced for Gigbeth 2008 lineup, Kano & Fabio

2008-10-14T15:25:00.002+01:00

Gigbeth 2008, Birmingham’s biggest music festival, has announced new Headline acts Hip Hop & Rap star Kano, and Drum & Base pioneer Fabio, to it’s event line up this November.

Fabio and Kano will join artists such as The Guillemots, The Young Knives, Sugarhill Gang and Stanton Warriors as headliners for the Birmingham’s biggest music festival, being held at venues across Digbeth including The Custard Factory.

Kano – London born Rapper Kano is a BRIT award nominated artist who has collaborated with some of Britain’s biggest artists including Damon Albarn, Craig David, Kate Nash, and Brummie Mike Skinner from The Streets. His most recent 2008 single ‘Hustler’ peaked at # 12 in the charts.

Fabio – Fellow Londoner Fabio has been on the Drum & Bass scene for over two decades and has been a pioneer in the genre almost single handedly carving out the Liquid Drum & Base scene.

This year’s Gigbeth headliners are a testament to the festival’s diversity, and organisers feel that there is an act to suit every taste with a multitude of artists from a diverse spectrum of genres including Hip Hop, Drum & Bass, Jazz, Dance, Folk, and Indie.

Clare Edwards, Founder and Coordinator of Gigbeth says: “I’m delighted to announce that internationally revered artists Kano and Fabio have been added to the Headliners at Gigbeth. I feel that Kano and Fabio give the bill a bit more depth and add to the diversity that makes Gigbeth unique. This is without doubt the strongest lineup Gigbeth has ever had and with every passing year, Gigbeth is becoming more and more a symbol of the city’s vibrant music scene.”

Clare Edwards recently won the national title of 2008 UK Young Music Entrepreneur of the Year. Clare was also awarded the title of Birmingham Young Professional of the Year 2007.

Previous Gigbeth festivals have seen artists such as Dirty Pretty Things, The Raconteurs, Nizlopi and Boy Kill Boy take centre stage, supported by many acts, including The Twang, Scott Matthews and Envy & Other Sins, who have now become headliners themselves.

With performances in over 10 venues throughout the entire weekend, alongside a massive outdoor main stage at Millennium Point, Gigbeth 2008 is Birmingham’s biggest ever music festival.

Tickets are priced at £15 for Friday, £18 for Saturday, or £25 for the entire weekend. Tickets are available by ringing the official Gigbeth Box Office on 0844 888 3883.

Gigbeth 2008 set to bring welcome boost to Birmingham’s economy

2008-10-10T16:10:00.003+01:00

Digbeth music Festival set to generate over £1milliion in extra revenue for the city

Birmingham’s local economy is set to receive a shot in the arm from this year’s Gigbeth festival, taking place between 7th and 8th November 2008.

Last year’s festival brought over £800,000 in revenue into the 2nd city’s economy. With the Gigbeth 2008 set be bigger and better than the 2007 event, organisers are expecting the festival to generate more than £1 million for the regional economy.

The economic value of Gigbeth was put together by Audiences Central, and is testament to the growing importance and influence of Gigbeth. Audiences Central have performed a lot of qualitative and quantative research in the West Midlands supporting the likes of the Birmingham REP, ArtsFest and Compton Verney. Audiences Central is a well positioned market research service that work specifically in the arts and cultural industries.

Gigbeth is one day hoped to be as popular and iconic to the city as festivals such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival have become to theirs. Last year, The Fringe brought in roughly £10.7 million, a sum that is a realistic target for Gigbeth in years to come.

The creative industries in Birmingham make up 9% of the city’s overall economic turnover. Events such as Gigbeth act important platforms from which to celebrate and excel the creative industry and maintain a healthy growth in the sectors revenue generation.

Clare Edwards, Gigbeth creator and organiser says, “Gigbeth is a great event for the city and the business model with which we run it by is one both Birmingham City Council and I take a lot of pride in. The money that funds Gigbeth allows us to provide the city with a fantastic event that is also generates economic growth throughout many other sectors. It is also a solid national platform for us to embrace our creative industries and protect the growing revenue streams they bring the city.”

Clare Edwards was recently celebrated as the 2008 UK Young Music Entrepreneur of the Year, beating rival competitors from London and Manchester. Clare was also named Birmingham Young Professional of the Year 2007 and has become a prominent figure in the region’s Birmingham’s music scene and creative industries.

Gigbeth 2008 music festival will take place from 7th- 8th November throughout Digbeth in Birmingham. Gigbeth 2008 has something for all music loving members of the public, with top draw artists from many genres and a line up that will see established favourites join the newest rising stars of today’s music industry.

With performances in over 10 venues throughout the entire weekend, alongside a massive outdoor main stage at Millennium Point, Gigbeth 2008 is Birmingham’s biggest ever music festival.

Tickets are priced at £15 for Friday, £18 for Saturday, or £25 for the entire weekend. Tickets are available by ringing the official Gigbeth Box Office on 0844 888 3883.

For further information on Gigbeth 2008 please visit http://www.gigbeth.com/

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Time running out for 'Early Bird' Gigbeth tickets

2008-10-10T16:06:00.004+01:00

Gigbeth 2008 has released a limited amount of ‘early bird’ tickets for all the city’s music fans who want to be at the front of the crowd at this year’s festival.

Gigbeth’s ‘early bird’ tickets will be priced at £20 for the entire weekend, allowing you to see over 200 bands and DJs in 10 different venues across Birmingham.

Headlining this year’s Gigbeth festival are Brum favourites The Guillemots, ‘Geek Rock’ phenomenon The Young Knives, Hip Hop legends The Sugarhill Gang and dance music icons Stanton Warriors.

Clare Edwards, Gigbeth organiser, says: “The early bird tickets are a way of saying thank you to everyone who wants to guarantee their place at this year’s festival. It also offers a cheaper alternative to the overall weekend ticket price which will make the event more accessible and encourage people to see a wider range of artists over the entire weekend.”

Gigbeth 2008 ‘early bird’ tickets are priced at £20. This allows you entry to every gig and event over the 2 day festival. Gigbeth ‘early bird’ tickets will only be on sale until October 15th.

Standard Gigbeth 2008 tickets are priced at £15 for Friday, £18 for Saturday, or £25 for the entire weekend (booking after 15th October).

Tickets are available from http://www.theticketsellers.co.uk/, http://www.tixmob.com/, Marketing Birmingham and by ringing the official Gigbeth Box Office on 0844 888 3883.

Gigbeth 2008 music festival will take place from 7th- 8th November throughout Digbeth in Birmingham. Gigbeth 2008 has something for all music loving members of the public, with top draw artists from many genres and a line up that will see established favourites join the newest rising stars of today’s music industry.

With performances in over 10 venues throughout the entire weekend, alongside a massive outdoor main stage at Millennium Point, Gigbeth 2008 is Birmingham’s biggest ever music festival.

For further information on Gigbeth 2008 please visit http://www.gigbeth.com/

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Gigbeth announces UK & international headliners on 2008 festival line up

2008-10-10T15:17:00.006+01:00

Indie heroes The Guillemots, ‘Geek Rock’ phenomena The Young Knives, Hip Hop legends The Sugarhill Gang & Dance music icons Stanton Warriors amongst headliners at Gigbeth 2008

Gigbeth, Birmingham’s biggest music festival, has now announced its 2008 event headline acts. Leading names across many genres of music will be playing at the festival, with headline slots going to Indie heroes The Guillemots, ‘Geek Rock’ phenomena Young Knives, Hip Hop legends The Sugarhill Gang and break beat Dance music icons Stanton Warriors.

Gigbeth 2008 will also be hosting artists such as Oliver $, The Institubes, Miss Moneypennies, and Subfocus, Miles & Erica Hunt (previously known as The Wonderstuff), Pete Jordan , Joebot, Anathema, The Hair, Miccoli, DR. Meaker, and DJ Switch in venues across Digbeth including the iconic Custard Factory.

This year’s Gigbeth headliners are a testament to the festival’s diversity, and organisers feel that there is an act to suit every taste with a multitude of artists from a diverse spectrum of genres including Hip Hop, Jazz, Dance, Folk, and Indie.

Founder and organiser, Clare Edwards says, “It is very exciting that acts such as The Guillemots and Sugarhill Gang are coming to Gigbeth. Those two acts are representative of the artists we have at this years Gigbeth, pioneers and current genre leaders from two very different musical fields. It is great to see Birmingham stars like The Guillemots supporting their city by headlining for Gigbeth. I also believe this is the first time The Sugarhill Gang have performed in Birmingham, and it shows the strength of the Birmingham music scene that we can attract pioneering artists like The Sugarhill Gang to Gigbeth.

Clare Edwards recently won the national title of 2008 UK Young Music Entrepreneur of the Year. Clare was also awarded the title of Birmingham Young Professional of the Year 2007.

Previous Gigbeth festivals have seen artists such as Dirty Pretty Things, The Raconteurs, Nizlopi and Boy Kill Boy take centre stage, supported by many acts, including The Twang, Scott Matthews and Envy & Other Sins, who have now become headliners themselves.

With performances in over 10 venues throughout the entire weekend, alongside a massive outdoor main stage at Millennium Point, Gigbeth 2008 is Birmingham’s biggest ever music festival.

Tickets are priced at £15 for Friday, £18 for Saturday, or £25 for the entire weekend. Tickets are available by ringing the official Gigbeth Box Office on 0844 888 3883.

For further information on Gigbeth 2008 please visit http://www.gigbeth.com/

Amanda Palmer plays at Custard Factory's Space 2

2008-10-04T14:54:00.005+01:00

Former Dresdon Dolls singer, Amanda Palmer, continued her tour of England with an intimate gig at Space 2 to a collection of hardcore fans and periphery bar side cynics.

The gig was most unlike anything I had seen before, her entrance nearly gave me a heart attack after I mistook her for a crippled ghost (she was on crutches). Amanda entered around the outside of the musical arena in an old wedding dress accompianed by ambient music and an abhorent stage performance from her dancers (I'll come back to this later).

After a crowd deadening intro from one of her associates, who bore more than a passing resemblence to Mr Incredible, Amanda launched into tracks from her new, critically acclaimed debut solo album Who killed Amanda Palmer.

I often bare slight reservations towards the alternative style of Amanda Palmer and her contempories, but I tried to keep an open mind and hold a balanced opinion. I must confess that the sound of the Air Con coupled with her disonant piano style did little to change my mind, although I was impressed by her voice and found her a genuinely engaging stage performer, although that may have something to do with the stockings.

People, particularly ones bestowed with fame and talent, are often judged by the decisions they make as well as their artistic integrity and output. Unfortunatley this is where Amanda's performance fell down. Her dance troupe postured and posed on the stage in a manner that showed a complete contempt for style, form and timing. Whatever she was on when she made the decision to not only hire but pay these people, is surely one of the worst errors of recruitment since the FA put the hopes of the nation in the hands of ginger, dutch wannabe.

I am an advocate of all art forms and will always search for the meaning and artistic intentions in any piece of work how ever bizarre or unevocative, but I couldn't grasp what thoughts, messages, or artistic intelligence was hoping to be evoked in the minds of the 200 people that turned up to see the former Dresdon Dolls front lady. I'm sure there were good reasons behind their ill fitting clothes and amatuerish dancing, but the meaning of every movement and garment was aloof to me.

On reflection, although I can't say I loved all her songs, I can certainly see why she holds such a loyal fan base and found Amanda, at times, an entertaining performer, but in reference to the question on her album cover, her performance artists killed Amanda Palmer.

Birmingham’s iconic figure, John Baskerville, to be celebrated at the Hello Digital festival

2008-10-01T09:46:00.001+01:00

‘Baskerville, the animated film’ will be put on by Birmingham City University and will explore the life and work of one of Birmingham’s greatest historical figures. The exhibition will also involve a communication wall which will be used to show the difference in text based communication over the last 250 years, from Baskerville’s typeface to modern day emailing and texting.

11 contributors were filmed, creating their characters in Fry's Baskerville, in Birmingham City University's MILO suite at Arts and Design Faculty in Gosta Green. The video documentation from the day is being developed into a series of 11 animated films, which form the basis of a large scale HD multi-screen installation at Millenium Point for the Hello Digital Festival.

The artwork is devised for a multi-screen installation of 11 iMacs on plinths arranged in a circle. Each iMac will be showcasing a short animated film, drawing/carving/constructing only one Baskerville letterform, created by a range of leading typographers/illustrators/lettering artists from the uk and beyond.

Collectively the installation will spell out BASKERVILLE simultaneously in the round.

Big Cat growth continues

2008-09-24T09:51:00.003+01:00

The perpetual expansion of Big Cat sees the recent hiring of 2 new members.

Big Cat is delighted to announce the arrival of Nick Ruffles as Senior Event Manager, and Annette Massam as PR Account Manager.

The new arrivals have been brought in response to a swelling in new business and to bring their expertise in finding new business for the company. Big Cat has recently enjoyed many large new business wins for including the Pr/marketing/event management contracts for the digital media festival, Hello Digital, as well as Pr/marketing/creative design/ event contracts for Gigbeth, and the Creative City Awards.

Say Hello to Killriculum

2008-09-12T16:21:00.003+01:00

Our good friends at Killriculum are starting their horror film workshops this weekend at the Bond on Fazeley street in Digbeth.

Killriculum is an original and innovative West Midlands-based project aimed at enabling a diverse range of young people to engage with film and new media, via a new interactive website, www.killriculum.co.uk, and a series of free workshops.

The website allows young people to upload their own short horror films. The website also brings you the exciting and innovative ‘Horror Mash Up’, a part of the site that will allow you to edit and save your own short horror film trailers online!

The Killriculum workshops are free to attend and places are still available for this weekend.
The first Killriculum workshop is being held in two sessions at The Bond on Fazeley Street in Digbeth on Saturday 13th September. People are invited to attend between 10am-1pm (pre-bookable tel. 0121 687 1404), and then from between 2pm-5pm (open drop-in session). The workshops will be teaching young people how to design and create films through digital media. www.killriculum.co.uk

Titan at the Bullring

2008-09-12T16:16:00.002+01:00

Thousands flocked to Birmingham's Bullring to witness the phenomenon that is Titan the Robot and Hello Digital. Titan entertained crowds with his witty patter, realistic mobility and uncannily realistic impressions of Louis Armstrong.

It was, of course, all done for our fantastic Hello Digital festival and making sure as many people as possible heard about the free municipal event. Throngs of people gathered around the 8 foot giant as it charmed the crowd like a goucho at a singles night, and hit the shops like a robotic Winona Ryder. The highlight for me was definately Titan singing ‘Lady in Red’ to a manikin in a red dress.

Still some people were less impressed; I was stopped by a midly vexed punter who asked me, in the manner of a spoilt child, ‘why can’t he dance’. This is 2008 after all, and we are living in the age of ‘on demand’ technology, and completely sympathise with the young lady. The thought that all the robot could do was walk, talk, sing, joke, conduct a light opera and give a physiology class isn’t really good enough, and I have sent her a cheque for mental damages and strong letter to the makers of Titan.
Hello Digital is 23-26 October at Millenium Point.

Moseley Folk Festival

2008-09-03T09:18:00.005+01:00

This weekend saw the annual Moseley Folk Festival roll into town once again, bringing some of the biggest folk artists from around the world to the musical epicentre of the globe, Moseley.
As well as competitively priced beer (and glasses), the music was superb and a great time was had by all. Jose Gonzales and Seth Lakeman were very well recieved and creditable mentions go to The Bees and Morcheeba.

Bar Sunday, the weather was lavish and created a perfect back drop to the atmosphere of the festival.

Although I enjoy a bit of folk as much as the next man, the festival exposed me to the full gambit of the genre, and although I heard some music that could only be described as absolute guff, it was far outweighed by high quality music that poured over the audience like a dry ice machine at an 80's night.

The highlight of the weekend was obviously the mad rush to the bar as the excellent proprieters gave cider away for £1, with the help of a megaphone and a grim determination to shift ciders and encourage responsible drinking.

Overall the festival was a roaring success with acts that blew the socks off all who witnessed, booze that flowed like wine and tremendous Tisky marketing.

Jason and Ed's reign of terror comes to end

2008-08-26T16:54:00.004+01:00

Big Cat directors Nick Morgan and Anthony Tattum are back from their respective holidays to bring to an end Jason Liggitt and Ed King's terranical autocracy.

In their absence, many staff complained of Jason's robust attitude towards motivation with the Big Cats getting particularly annoyed with his insistance on horse whipping and shouting "work faster/harder".

Ed has been accused of gaffer taping staff member's faces to their computer screens in bid to stop to distractions. He was also seen sticking everyones chairs and computer screens to the ceiling claiming " if you can work upside down, you can work the right way up"; never a truer word spoken.

This is actually a splinter blog as we were all made to sign gagging orders to stop us squeeling, in fact this blog will explode immediately after you have finished reading this.

Big Cat to market Gigbeth

2008-08-13T10:31:00.008+01:00

Birmingham’s biggest city festival have called on Big Cat to handle their promotional campaign.

Birmingham based Big Cat Group have been awarded the contract to raise the profile of one of the Midlands’ biggest entertainment showcases, Gigbeth. Big Cat will be responsible for the press and marketing campaigns for the prestigious musical event.

Gigbeth will be held all across the 2nd city at iconic venues such as The Custard Factory between 6th and 8th of November 2008. Big Cat’s local knowledge and influence in the area are key reasons for their victory in an extremely competitive pitch. Big Cat is a full service agency and they pride themselves in their expertise and understanding of youth and creative markets.

Coleen comes back to Custard Factory spaces

2008-08-12T12:10:00.004+01:00

Coleens Real Women is starting to film its second series and is coming back to the Old Library at the Custard Factory Spaces in Birmingham. This will be the second time Coleen has come down to the iconic Custard Factory to film the shows Birmingham regional casting.

Unlike last year, the casting is now taking place over two days, rather than just one.

During the first series of Coleen’s Real Women shown earlier this year, Coleen took on the mission of putting REAL women into high-profile advertising and modelling jobs. After approaching eight national brands, Coleen’s Real Women won seven contracts!

The nation's favourite girl next door will continue her UK search for more Real Women in a second series. The castings take place over 27th and 28th August. Anyone that wants to enter can apply via the link below...
http://www.itv.com/Lifestyle/Fashion/Coleen-sRealWomen/default.html

Mel comes out of the cold

2008-08-07T12:35:00.002+01:00

Mel Sirrett has finally been assigned a friend to come and sit with her. The move was brought about to raise Mel's plummeting spirit after being ditched by the PR department.

Rebecca Lawson is the latest person to be sat opposite Mel and William Hill have her at 2-1 to move or leave the company within the next week and 4-1 each way.

The move allows Katy Brookes to move away from the undesirable spot right next to the door that she has been working from since her arrival a month ago.

PR department move .... 3 yards away from their original places

2008-08-06T15:25:00.002+01:00

Big Cat's incredible, future award winning PR department have up sticks and moved several feet to the neighbouring table island, leaving Mel Sirrett cold and alone, again.

The move follows Ed King's nose bleed inducing move to the design studio, that has threatened to tear apart the company at the seams. Despite designs protestations, Ed moved in untroubled and has enjoyed working in his windowless pod that Jason Liggett built for him to avoid conversation.

Kenny Laurie and Natalie Hartland's move has been traumatic for all especially Mel who has a nasty habit of making her close collegues resort to moving desks or even leaving the company.

The two PR cats have welcomed the move and have called on the company to build them their own PR office in space or on top of a big mountain.

Big Cat wins Creative City Awards

2008-08-01T15:36:00.003+01:00

Big Cat have gone one step further to cementing their place as Birmingham's number one creative agency by winning the contract to project manage and PR The Creative City Awards.

The Creative City Awards will be held at the ICC on the 29th November and will be attended by anyone who's anyone in the Birmingham creative industry.

Big Cat are currently snow balling in size and new business accounts are coming in on an almost daily basis.

Director Nick Morgan, "It is an honour to be awarded such a prestigious account and we will do everything in our power to make this the best Creative City Awards yet."

Creative City's Carol Alderson sighted Big Cat's creative edge, events expertise and strong local connections as key reasons for their selection.

This isn't so much a big step forward for the company but a confirmation of Big Cat's status within the City.

Leopards leave lions licking their wounds

2008-07-29T12:39:00.004+01:00

Big Cats Leopards rewrote the rounders rule book with a devastating display of pragmatism, samson like physicality, Churchillian motivation, and hardcore mental strength.

The desperate Lions were chasing shadows for much of the game save for a brief burst of futile activity from Greek international Jason Paphitis.

Image: Ed rounds last base

Director Nick Morgan says, " It was all about the high fives, without them, we would have struggled. To win a game of this magnitude by such a margin, gives hope to millions around the world that see rounders as their ticket to a better life."

The final score is unknown such was the gulf in quality between either side, with Ed King probably top scorering. Ed's performance galvanised his reputation as the Pele of Rounders.

The rematch date has yet to be confirmed despite Sky paying an estimated 2 billion pounds for the rights to broadcast the Olympic spectacle.

Test

2008-07-29T12:35:00.001+01:00

Kenny Laurie tests Bcg's blog