Comments Off on The Small Batch Beer Club… Beer Quaffing at Exeter Phoenix Just Got More Exciting
Exeter Phoenix has been chosen as one of a select group of pubs and bars to be part of St Austell’s new Small Batch Beer Club. That means there we’ll be serving up a new limited edition brew to try each week.
From March 2016 we’ll serving up bespoke, limited edition beers straight from St Austell’s brand new small batch brewery.
The new brewery makes just 3,000 pints (40 barrels) of each exclusive ale, so St Austell has hand-picked 36 pubs in the UK, including Exeter Phoenix, to be the ambassadors of the Small Batch Beer Club. We’ll be receiving just one barrel of each brew and once it’s gone, it’s gone. See below for what’s coming up…
Season Two Cask Ale Schedule
Batch 1: CASHMERE 4.6% ABV / Super pale ale showcasing Cashmere hops.
Batch 2: BAOBAB
5.2% ABV / Wheat neer with baobab powder and Cashmere hops.
Batch 3: ITALIAN JOB
5.0% ABV / India pale ale with Sorrento lemons.
Batch 4: CHEVALIER
4.1% ABV / English pale ale showcasing Chevalier malt.
Batch 5: VESPER
5.5% ABV / Blonde ale with panela sugar.
Batch 6: GRANDVIEW
5.3% ABV / American pale ale with Citra & Mosaic hops and west coast yeast.
Batch 7: LIBERTAS
4.8% ABV / Pilsner showcasing Liberty hops.
Batch 8: KAURI IPA
4.4% ABV / New Zealand India pale ale with mango.
Batch 9: EUREKA
4.9% ABV / American pale ale brewed with Eureka hops.
Batch 10: HARVEST ALE
4.5% ABV / Harvest ale showcasing green hops.
Batch 11: WHEEL BARA
4.8% ABV / Speciality ale brewed with Eden project bread.
Batch 12: TALL ORDER
5.0% ABV / Sweet, smooth and rich ruby porter.
Comments Off on Behind The Scenes – Richard Chappell Dance
Photo Credit: Gemma Ward Photography
Despite being just 20 years old, Richard Chappell is already making waves in the dance world, with The Guardian describing him as ‘a choreographer to watch’. This April his dance company will present three works at Exeter Phoenix.
The program of work – IRIS, Burnt Norton, and The Vast Rocks – marks the starting point of Richard’s creative development and choreographic journey. Drawing heavily on the environments and geographical locations that have influenced him, these shows explore aspects of the South West’s landscape, as well as contrasting this with other places that have provided geographical influence.
Speaking about the work, Richard has said
‘This program is a creative effort for me to find my feet as a choreographer by actively latching onto my past and present geographical inspirations. The places I’ve inhabited and the people and the landscapes which have made them home have shaped me as a person and as a dancer and I hope that exposing audiences to this personal and sometimes vulnerable stance to my work will give them a unique window into the language I am currently researching and developing.’
Having developed a unique and hugely full-bodied movement language, Richard Chappell Dance are able to communicate this by working with highly skilled professional dancers at peak fitness and ability. This results in highly physical, aesthetically pleasing work which relies on the dancers’ strength, endurance, flexibility and agility.
Speaking about the unique language Richard Chappell has developed, Richard says
‘I have spent the last three years developing a movement language based around my experiences in classical ballet, contemporary dance, capoeira and improvisation. These forms and aesthetics have been matched with encouragement for the dancers to really lose themselves in the program in order to present each performance as a shared unique experience for themselves and the audience.’
The company is laced with a great sense of youthful energy and rigour, with all but one of the creatives involved being under the age of 22.
Find out more about Richard Chappell Dance’s Exeter show here >>
Funding success for the South West’s much loved physical comedy theatre company Le Navet Bete as they bring back The Wonderful Wizard of Oz in a tornado of laughter.
Fresh off the back of their hugely successful Christmas show run of Robin Hood & His Merry Men at the Barbican Theatre, Plymouth, Exeter based Le Navet Bete have been successful in their latest Grants for the Arts funding application from Arts Council England to re-tour their previous smash hit show The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and to create and tour nationally a brand new feature length show debuting in Spring 2017. In co-production with the Barbican Theatre, Oz will tour regionally across the South West to theatres, arts centres, village halls and schools between Apr and Jun 2016 giving more audiences the opportunity to see this show which enjoyed a sell-out four week run in Plymouth over Christmas 2014.
Join Dorothy and Toto on their fantastical and downright chaotic travels along the Road of Yellow Bricks meeting the usual (sort of) suspects along the way – an unbelievably idiotic Scarecrow, a Tin Man straight from under the Iron Curtain and a Lion whose West-End dreams seem just Over The Rainbow – as well as some characters you might not expect…Will they make it to the Emerald City or will the Mighty Oz and his powerful Green Army stop them in their tracks? Will Shirley the Wicked Witch of the West be slightly more ‘wicked’ than you could ever imagine? Will a squadron of Winged Monkeys end up in your lap? Directed by Mark Laville, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz is a show for the whole family to enjoy. Prepare yourselves for a physical comedy bonanza full of ridiculous characters, live music and song, hilarious dances, utter stupidity and much more. This really is a long, long way from Kansas…
As well as re-touring Oz the company have been given the funding to develop a new madcap show for the beginning of 2017. For the third time Le Navet Bete will work under the direction of one of the UK’s funniest theatre directors, John Nicholson of acclaimed comedy theatre company Peepolykus.
Nick Bunt, co-artistic director of Le Navet Bete, said “We are absolutely thrilled to have been awarded this grant from Arts Council England and to be bringing Oz back for more people to enjoy. There was a huge demand for it so it seemed the natural thing to do. With on going support from Exeter City Council and our loyal new and existing audiences this is just an incredible belief in our work and what we do. And with the new show for 2017, we already know what it will be but we can’t give too many surprises away at once now can we?!”
Phil Gibby, Area Director, South West, Arts Council England said: ‘Le Navet Bete produces brilliant accessible theatre shows that audiences really enjoy. Our Grants for the arts scheme supports artists and arts organisations to bring great art to everyone and it’s particularly pleasing that this award will support two shows developed in the south west as they tour in the region and nationally.’
Catch Le Navet Bete’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz at Exeter Phoenix Thu 14 – Sat 16 Apr.
We’re recruiting new volunteer stewards, and are looking for enthusiastic people who love film and enjoy working in a customer focused environment. Shifts are available for every cinema screening, and include collecting tickets on the door, assisting with the smooth running of Studio 74 during screenings, looking after the safety and comfort of our customers and advocating Exeter Phoenix facilities and events.
As one of our stewards, you’ll get to see great films for free while gaining experience in a professional arts organisation. You’ll also get a 20% discount voucher which can be used at our café bar whether you’re on or off shift, and a free hot drink for every screening you cover.
Comments Off on Clowning around with Le Navet Bete
Over February half term, we partnered with internationally acclaimed physical theatre company Le Navet Bete and Devon Young Carers to deliver an intensive week long course on clowning to a group of enthusiastic 13 – 19 year olds.
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After a week mastering the art of stupidity and learning the very best techniques of being ridiculous, the participants presented their self-devised physical comedy performance to an eager audience of friends, family and support workers… to great acclaim!
To find out more about our opportunities for young people, join our mailing list here and select ‘young people’ as a preference. For a full range of our courses for all ages, click visit our courses page here.
‘My daughter gained an awful lot from the experience and thoroughly enjoyed her four days. You and the guys put in a lot of hard work and it is really appreciated. It was a fabulous opportunity for these young carers.’
‘Absolutely Brilliant! …hoping there will be another workshop next year. My only complaint is there should have been chocolate cake for the audience! We loved the show.’
‘My son has thoroughly enjoyed the challenges and opportunities during the 4 days, he got great feedback from the group leaders which has really increased his confidence. It was good to see a youth performance where so much was achieved and all participants given a chance to shine! Well Done!’
Are you are looking to gain experience in a professional arts environment, and see a host of music, theatre and live performance?
We are looking for people to assist in the smooth running of our events, looking after the safety and comfort of our customers and helping to promote Exeter Phoenix facilities and events. If you are enthusiastic, enjoy working in a customer focused environment and excited by our program this could be for you.
We also have opportunities assisting with the invigilation of the Visual Arts side of our programme. If you are interested in this, get in touch.
WHY VOLUNTEER WITH US?
Many of our stewards have gone on to work in the arts, and even some of our very own staff started out as volunteer stewards. Stewarding is a good first step if you would like to get involved with our buzzing venue and be part of a small, fun and dedicated team.
Gain experience in a multi arts venue with one of the most exciting, diverse and eclectic programmes around.
If you are interested in a career in event management, this is a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience.
20% Café Bar discount card for hot drinks and food – you can use this all year round and when you are not on shift.
A complimentary soft or hot drink when you are on shift
WHAT DOES IT INVOLVE?
Helping on the door at music gigs, theatre performances and more
Liaising with our box office and front of house staff
Welcoming guests and taking tickets
A minimum of one event a month
OUR PAST VOLUNTEERS
‘A wonderful opportunity to mix with like minded creative people’
Mai-Lin, freelance creative artist and educator
‘I really enjoyed it! There really is no downside to volunteering at the Phoenix.’
Victoria, second year drama student at the University of Exeter
‘I found out about the role through the opportunities page on the website, which I’ve used for several things before, including getting involved with the Arts Department on a music video shoot. I have been completely inspired and would definitely volunteer at Exeter Phoenix again. I’d encourage anyone who was thinking about it to give it a go.’
Beth, recent graduate of Falmouth University
INTERESTED?
If you would like to join our dedicated team of volunteers, or simply want to find out more, please contact Robyn here >>
This March, Vibraphonic music festival returns to Exeter, celebrating diversity, from reggae and world music through to blues and soul. Alongside a host of music events, Studio 74 will be screening two newly released films about music.
Lee Scratch Perry’s Vision Of Paradise follows the inventor of reggae and dub on a journey that is almost impossible to believe, whilst Janis: Little Girl Blue is part of our Women On Film series, examining Janis Joplin’s story in depth for the first time on film.
Mad about film? Book 3 films for just £15. See what other films are featuring in Studio 74 this season and receive this great offer here >>
Lee Scratch Perry’s Vision Of Paradise
Fri 4 Mar | 7.30pm | £6
A thrilling, poetic narration with the legendary Lee Scratch Perry, this movie is a unique project in many ways: it’s not a biography but rather a fairytale documentary.
It is a mind-blowing encounter with “The Prophet” of the international Rastafari movement, one of the icons of the Black Power movement and “the” inventor of reggae and dub and it is also a humorous adventure of epic dimensions.
Janis Joplin is one of the most revered and iconic rock & roll singers of all time, a tragic and misunderstood figure who thrilled millions of listeners and blazed new creative trails before her death in 1971 at age 27.
With Janis: Little Girl Blue, Oscar-nominated director Amy Berg (Deliver Us From Evil, West of Memphis) examines Joplin’s story in depth for the first time on film, presenting an intimate and insightful portrait of a complicated, driven, often beleaguered artist.
Vibraphonic Music Festival, Circus Inspired Theatre and Hidden Gems from Japanese Cinema
We have just launched our new season of live performance, music, cinema and exhibitions. Spring at Exeter Phoenix presents a whole host of opportunities for great days and nights out with friends.
Music highlights include the return of one of the city’s most celebrated music festivals, Vibraphonic. Amongst the line up you’ll find acts like Ginger Baker (the notorious ex-Cream drummer), rising blues musician Jo Harman and soul-reggae sensation Natty. Running from the 3rd to the 18th of March in multiple venues, the heart of this festival lies in great music celebrating diversity, from reggae and world music through to blues and soul.
Other live music events include an intimate gig with Echo and the Bunnymen frontman Ian McCulloch and a visit from Australian surf-rockers Sunset Sons in April.
Theatre at Exeter Phoenix through spring 2016 offers some equally inspiring picks. Cornwall’s Miracle Theatre present Zonk FM, a wacky production exploring concepts of reality with humour, acute tenderness and disco lights, while the internationally-touring, award-winning clown troupe Le Navet Bete bring their sell-out show The Wonderful Wizard of Oz to Exeter for the first time. Imbalance, a stand out dance and acrobatics performance from Joli Vyann, is also expected to make an impact, as they explore technological dependency through a fusion of circus and choreography.
The Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme arrives at Studio 74 in March, offering a treat for cinema fans who enjoy hidden gems from the international arena. A unique opportunity to experience Japan through the big screen, the season presents screenings of acclaimed Japanese titles alongside the option of a Japanese feast at Exeter Phoenix’s café bar prior to the film.
Other films to watch out for in Exeter Phoenix’s new season include the Oscar-worthy Spotlight, the true story of a Boston newspaper’s investigation into abuses in the Church, and Room, an independent film based on the Booker Prize winning novel about a boy who has never known life outside of the single room he shares with his mother.
A leading Exeter exhibition space for contemporary art, the Exeter Phoenix gallery hosts Charles Richardson’s Displacement Behaviour through March and April. Packed with paradox and contradiction, Richardson’s work brings together new video and installation works which combine digital sophistication with an absurd, deadpan humour. The gallery is open Mon – Sat and entry is free.
Comments Off on Alice In Wonderland As You Have Never Seen Her Before
As part of the legendary city based animation festival Animated Exeter, follow the white rabbit to Studio 74. Here, you can explore the many faces of Alice in Wonderland ahead of our screening of Jan Svankmajer’s alternative animated film Alice on Fri 19 Feb.
Pop in and you may just find yourself down the rabbit hole, entering many different Wonderlands and revelling in the storytelling skills of these great animators. Discover more about Svankmajer and his distinctive, nightmarish approach to fairy-tale, juxtaposed against a display curated from The Bill Douglas Cinema Museum that showcases Disney’s very different approach to Lewis Carroll’s original tale.
From nineteenth century magic lantern slides, to memorabilia from Disney’s classic animation such as record storybooks, stills, ephemera and meeting notes to discuss the making of the film, these artefacts reflect the public’s continued fascination with the Alice story since its first publication 150 years ago.
When? 7pm on Wed 2 Mar, before Noriben: Recipe Of Fortune, the first screening in our Japanese film season.
What? Separate a a pile of smarties by colour against the clock, using a pair of chopsticks.
Why? Because the quickest chopstick challenger to complete the task gets to take home a Bento Box goodie pack, courtesy of the Japan Centre. Oh… and because it’s going to be fun.
To join in, just turn up. All challengers welcome.
Experience Japan Through Film
Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme 2016
Our chopstick challenge bento box giveaway is part of a season of Japanese cinema running through March at Exeter Phoenix’s Studio 74.
An inspiring collection of contemporary Japanese cinema in partnership with The Japan Foundation. See work from Japanese filmmakers who have captured the highs and lows of life – stories of people persevering, reconciling or overcoming the environment they live in.
This award-winning animation brings to life the story of O-Ei, the daughter of the 19th century ukiyo-e master, Katsushika Hokusai (globally famous for his piece The Great Wave). Inheriting both her father’s stubbornness and his talent, O-Ei’s art is so powerful that it leads her into trouble.
A sweet and heart-warming story about a comic book artist named Pecoross and his dementia-suffering mother Mitsue. As Mitsue settles into life in a nursing home and gets to know the eccentric inhabitants, her memories gradually lead her to retrace a secret past.
Wed 23 Mar | 7.30pm | £6 An award-winning documentary about the Kitades family and their butcher shop, a business their ancestors have run in Kaizuka City for over 100 years. This touching film follows three butcher siblings, as they make a decision to shut down their long-running slaughterhouse.
After dominating the awards at yesterday’s BAFTA ceremony, The Revenant has marked itself as a film not to be missed. This season, Studio 74 will be home to five BAFTA winning films, with Spotlight, Inside Out, Room and Star Wars: The Force Awakens also scooping awards.
What’s more, our cinema tickets are priced at just £6 and our special ‘Mad About Film‘ ticket offer means that you can enjoy any three of these films for just £15.
Our licensed and independent Café Bar is open Mon – Sat
for delicious food, light snacks and coffee
Whether you’re here for a show or just want to catch a bite to eat in a buzzing city centre café with a sunny terrace, come in and try our new selection of tasty lunch and evening grub.
With a new menu of light bites and main meals made in house using flavoursome and locally sourced ingredients, you can mix and match whatever takes your fancy. Sample our warming butternut squash risotto, try our moreish combo of sweet potato fries and sour cream dip, or delve into a sweet treat with a cup of coffee.
There are plenty of veggie, vegan and gluten free options too, so whatever your preferences, you can treat yourself to something delicious. And for rumbling little tummies our new kids menu provides a great selection of tasty and wholesome options.
Best of all, we’ve listened to customer feedback and expanded our serving times, so you can now pop in for breakfast from 10am, and enjoy meals through into the evening – perfect pre-gig nosh. Late night visitors can get a bite to eat with our new fast and fresh chip cones, served straight from the kitchen hatch during all standing gigs.
Hope you enjoy!
From the Café Bar team at Exeter Phoenix
Follow us on twitter to keep up to date with the latest café bar deals and new treats in stock.
Comments Off on Exeter Phoenix Commissions A New Documentary
A Journey From John O’Groats to Land’s End Using Just Local Bus Routes
We are pleased to announce that its 2016 Short Documentary Commission has been awarded to local actor and filmmaker Simeon Costello.
With a value of over £2200, the commission award will provide support from Exeter Phoenix’s film production resource including equipment hire and professional training, as well as financial support to make his documentary proposal a reality.
With a background in drama and media studies, Simeon started out making short films with friends to put on YouTube, and became part of the local filmmaking network Shooters In The Pub after seeing a poster in Exeter Phoenix. Three years ago he went along to his first meeting and since then he has produced 6 short films, worked as a sound recordist, boom op, clapper loader, assistant director. His biggest project to date is his 2015 short film Nowhere Place, set on a fictional moor haunted by monsters.
The commission award from Exeter Phoenix has paved the way for a new step in Simeon’s filmmaking career and means he can fully realise plans for an exciting project idea. Simeon plans to travel from John O’Groats to Land’s End in less than four days using only local buses. Journeying alongside friend and actor DOP Scott Stevens, the film will examine why people use these routes and the reasons that they have remained so crucial to the UK. The film will be made this year and will premiere at Exeter’s Two Short Nights Film Festival in November 2016.
Exeter Phoenix’s Short Documentary Commission is just one of a brand new range of commissions that the city arts centre launched for 2016. The four other film commission categories are still accepting applications and include opportunities for young people, moving image artists and innovative storytellers. Exeter Phoenix will be accepting applications for consideration until the deadline on the 29th of February.
In total, over £15,000 of support in artist fees and equipment hire will be made available, with the aim of developing moving image talent in the South West by supporting fresh talent and offering new opportunities to more established filmmakers.
Comments Off on Journey With Us Through A Season of Scandinavian Cinema
Journey With Us Through A Season of Scandinavian Cinema
A pop up horror cinema in Haldon Forest, explorations into Iceland’s buzzing music scene, and a surf film cold water special; just some of the immersive cinematic experiences on offer at our #Scandifilm season.
After a highly successful debut festival in 2014, we present another season of Scandinavian and Nordic cinema. Featuring films from Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland, journey with other curious souls through snow-filled wonderlands and observe the characters who embody and mirror the contours of distinct landscapes.
After last year’s festival launch event in Haldon forest sold out in less than two days, Scandifilm 2016 kicks off by returning to the forest depths for a dark and atmospheric pop-up screening of Swedish horror Let The Right One In. A welcoming feast of hotdogs and Swedish lager promises to make this a night to remember.
The last half-decade has seen TV dramas like The Killing, Borgen, Wallander and The Bridge bring the Nordic Noir genre into the limelight. This February Scandifilm presents a chance for fans to watch a must-see example of an earlier and lesser-known title, one of a handful which first inspired the genre some 5 years before these dramas began opening it up to the mainstream. Made in Iceland in 2006, Jar City was one of the pioneering films in the rise of the Nordic Noir and follows a murder enquiry through a grim and lonely landscape uncovering haunting twists and horrifying secrets.
2016 introduces a new, musical aspect to this year’s Scandifilm. Sounds Like Iceland is a series of documentaries exploring leading characters in Iceland’s buzzing music scene. Sigur Ros: Heima presents an intimate journey with the band to unannounced concerts in far flung Scandinavian locations, while Bjork: Biophilia Live explores the wacky Icelandic songstress’ fascinating multidisciplinary multimedia project, Biophilia.
It’s not all film though, as participants in Scandifilm’s Flatpack Furniture Workshop will discover. Partnering with Exeter Library’s creative resource for a day of interactive fun at the Fab Lab, Scandifilm’s workshop attendees can get their hands on exciting technical equipment and build their own miniature flatpack furniture. No allen key needed for assembly!
Finally, to round off the season, surf enthusiasts will be delighted to hear that Surf Cinema will be returning for another night of cold water action films, supported by Finisterre, the UKs number one cold water surf equipment company. Definitely one for the brave and curious.
Full Scandifilm season listings can be found at scandifilm.co.uk and tickets are on sale now.
Scandifilm 2016 is supported by Pistonhead Swedish Lager.
Hands-on site specific theatre company Burn The Curtain will lead a journey far in to the depths of Haldon Forest at our festival launch event, Let The Right One In.
The 2016 Oscar nominations were announced today, and we are thrilled to announce that our upcoming cinema season includes an exciting selection of the following Oscar nominated films.
Plus our special ‘Mad About Film‘ offer means you can enjoy any three of these films for just £15.
Comments Off on An Interview With Theatre Alibi’s Director
An Interview with Nikki Sved
Theatre Alibi return to Exeter Phoenix in February with a new show, Falling. The show’s director Nikki Sved has been involved with the theatre company since the 1990s and offers an insight into their latest show in the following interview.
What was the inspiration behind Falling? How did it come about?
Dan Jamieson, our Associate Writer was fascinated by a picture in a newspaper of a sinkhole, in Chile, I think, and started finding out as much as he could about them. Sinkholes are a completely extraordinary phenomena – huge gaping holes that suddenly appear, swallowing buildings, cars and people. Some are caused by erosion, some by things like mining, but they occur all over the world. The photo that inspired Falling was one of a modest semi-detached house in Cornwall with an enormous hole in its back garden. It’s the juxtaposition of the ordinariness of the house with such an epic event that’s terrifying. What would happen to you if you wandered out into the garden some winter’s evening and fell into that hole. It’s just so random, so at odds with any sense of security. Even if you are lucky enough not to be injured, the experience of falling would still be there to haunt you…the sense that the ground beneath your feet could open up at any moment. That’s what happens in Falling to Alice. The piece follows the teenage Alice and her mother, Claire, as they struggle to come to terms with what’s happened. At its heart, the play is about how we all have to cope with the unsteadiness of life; we none of us know what might be around the corner.
Can you offer an insight into the research process for the play?
Months before rehearsals for a new show, we have a period of research and development to kick off the business of turning a script into a living, breathing piece of theatre. We get together as many of the people who will be working on a show as we can – the writer, director, musical director, designer, lighting designer, sound designer and actors– to try things out in a creative and playful atmosphere, away from the pressures of performance. It’s an opportunity to talk about the meaning and flavour of the story, so we all have a shared sense of what it’s about and to test out the script. We also get the chance to put things on their feet, giving us a real sense of how the show might look and sound. With Falling, a piece began to emerge that had a really intimate and raw feel. The means we were using to tell the story had a rough simplicity – the flash of torchlight as the actor playing Alice clung to a table edge and the electric guitar echoed, for example, gave a vivid sense of Alice grasping at the rocky sides of the sinkhole in the darkness.
What can audiences expect from the show?
It’s a story with a very powerful heart because most people can identify with what’s happening to Claire and Alice. In some ways it’s everyone’s nightmare, but it’s not a spoiler to say that there’s an optimism in there about the way in which people can recover from a shocking experience. We hope audiences will enjoy the strong visual elements achieved through projection, physicality and Trina Bramman’s wonderful set. And music is, as always with Alibi, a driving force in the show. Our Composer & Musical Director, Thomas Johnson, is working with electric guitar, because of its range – it can be tender, terrifying and hugely evocative.
How challenging is it to combine all the elements of music, puppetry and projection into a play?
I find it one of the great pleasures of creating new work. Of course, there are very real practical and technical challenges involved, but I’m so lucky to be able to draw on the wealth of experience and expertise that there is in the team. We work very closely together – our composer Thomas has his office right by the rehearsal room, so he can write music in direct response to the work I’m creating with the actors. The Design Team’s workshop is next to the rehearsal room and so puppets and props fly between the two and can be played with and adjusted as necessary. Duncan, our Projection Designer, is in the room with us trying things out as we go. It’s an incredibly integrated approach – which allows us to tell each part of our story with the most effective means.
You’ve been involved with Theatre Alibi since the 1990s, initially as a performer and now as Artistic Director. What’s been the highlight of your time with the company and how do you see Theatre Alibi developing in the future?
There have been so many highlights, from creating Birthday, a beautiful piece about Marc and Bella Chagall, in the early 90s, (soon to be revived at The Globe Theatre retitled The Lovers of Vitebsk) to taking Michael Morpurgo’s I Believe in Unicorns to Philadelphia last year. I’ve loved the sheer variety of our work -on the one hand taking shows into some of the tiniest village schools in Devon and, on the other, placing shows on stages like the Harold Pinter Theatre in the West End. But often the highlights are very simple ones – seeing a deaf child absolutely captivated by the violin during a performance or hearing from an audience member whose direction in life was changed utterly by seeing one of our shows years beforehand. In the end, that’s why I do what I do. As a company I hope we keep growing and learning. I’m very excited by a show that we’ll doing soon, which will have both Deaf and hearing performers in the cast. And I’m really looking forward to working on The Boy Who Climbed Into The Moon, based on a story by the wonderful David Almond.
You’ve worked with Daniel Jamieson (the writer of FALLING) on many shows, what do you think is the key to a successful working relationship?
Yes, the relationship with Dan has been a real linchpin for me and, of course, the company. We know each other inside out, but I think what I appreciate most is that we listen carefully to each other, try our level best to understand the other’s perspective and ultimately we trust each other. It’s too easy for a longstanding partnership to make things rather safe – which isn’t a good thing when you’re making theatre – so what I really appreciate is that Dan encourages me to take risks. And together, I know, we can negotiate the most scary and exciting of terrains.
Falling at Exeter Phoenix
You can see Falling at Exeter Phoenix Fri 19 Feb – Wed 24 Feb. Find out more here >>
We’re thrilled to announce that our upcoming film season includes five BAFTA nominated titles. Carol, Bridge Of Spies, Spotlight, Inside Out and Star Wars: The Force Awakens are amongst the films to have been nominated for BAFTA glory. You can find out more about the nominations below.
Don’t forget – our cinema tickets are priced at just £6, and our special ‘Mad About Film‘ offer means that you can enjoy any three of these films for just £15.
Best Film Best Actress – Cate Blanchett Best Supporting Actress – Rooney Mara Best Director – Todd Haynes Best Adapted Screenplay Best Cinematography Best Costume Design Best make-up and hair Best production design
Best Film Best Supporting Actor – Mark Rylance Best Director – Steven Spielberg Best Original Screenplay Best Cinematography Best Editing Best Music Best Production Design Best Sound
Comments Off on Scandifilm – Journey With Us Through A Season Of Scandinavian Cinema
Scandifilm – Journey With Us Through A Season Of Scandinavian Cinema
A pop up horror cinema in Haldon Forest, explorations into Iceland’s buzzing music scene, and a surf film cold water special; just some of the immersive cinematic experiences created by Exeter Phoenix this new year.
After a highly successful debut festival in 2014, we present another season of Scandinavian and Nordic cinema. Featuring films from Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland, journey with other curious souls through snow-filled wonderlands and observe the characters who embody and mirror the contours of distinct landscapes.
After last year’s festival launch event in Haldon forest sold out in less than two days, Scandifilm 2016 kicks off by returning to the forest depths for a dark and atmospheric pop-up screening of Swedish horror Let The Right One In. A welcoming feast of hotdogs and Swedish lager promises to make this a night to remember.
The last half-decade has seen TV dramas like The Killing, Borgen, Wallander and The Bridge bring the Nordic Noir genre into the limelight. This February Scandifilm presents a chance for fans to watch a must-see example of an earlier and lesser-known title, one of a handful which first inspired the genre some 5 years before these dramas began opening it up to the mainstream. Made in Iceland in 2006, Jar City was one of the pioneering films in the rise of the Nordic Noir and follows a murder enquiry through a grim and lonely landscape uncovering haunting twists and horrifying secrets.
2016 introduces a new, musical aspect to this year’s Scandifilm. Sounds Like Iceland is a series of documentaries exploring leading characters in Iceland’s buzzing music scene. Sigur Ros: Heima presents an intimate journey with the band to unannounced concerts in far flung Scandinavian locations, while Bjork: Biophilia Live explores the wacky Icelandic songstress’ fascinating multidisciplinary multimedia project, Biophilia.
It’s not all film though, as participants in Scandifilm’s Flatpack Furniture Workshop will discover. Partnering with Exeter Library’s creative resource for a day of interactive fun at the Fab Lab, Scandifilm’s workshop attendees can get their hands on exciting technical equipment and build their own miniature flatpack furniture. No allen key needed for assembly!
Finally, to round off the season, surf enthusiasts will be delighted to hear that Surf Cinema will be returning for another night of cold water action films, supported by Finisterre, the UKs number one cold water surf equipment company. Definitely one for the brave and curious.
Scandinavian Cinema, Punk Legends and Laugh Out Loud Comedy Festival
Jan-Feb Events at Exeter Phoenix
This new year, we present another vibrant mix of music, art and performance, from award-winning internationally renowned artists to homegrown talent. Alongside a thrilling programme of live events, Studio 74, Exeter’s new independent cinema presents inspiring, hand-picked alternative film and a special season of Scandinavian cinema.
Music highlights include a visit from punk legends Buzzcocks, a rock and roll explosion from Canadian rockers Cancer Bats and a flashback to the 80’s from Howard Jones. For gig goers with little ones in tow, there’s plenty up for grabs too. London’s family rave sensation Big Fish Little Fish returns to Devon with festival-style fun for the post-rave generation of parents, and Earworms Family Concerts take the stage in February with a family friendly session of gypsy jazz.
Exeter comedy fans will be delighted to see the return of the city’s annual comedy feast Laugh Out Loud Festival, with appearances from Rory McGrath and Sean McLoughlin, alongside more comedians in venues across Exeter. Other performance highlights include Theatre Alibi’s new production Falling and a special talk from adventurer Tim Jarvis, a man who daringly recreated Ernest Shackleton’s 1916 legendary Antarctic expedition using only the same rudimentary equipment.
Exeter Phoenix’s new cinema Studio 74 will be presenting another inspiring collection of new release indie films, amongst a host of buzzing festivals and special events. Highlights include the hotly anticipated return of Scandifilm, a celebration of Nordic cinema featuring an immersive pop-up film experience in the depths of Haldon Forest, among other cinephile delights.
For art-lovers, the work of French photographer Claude Cahun (1894-1954) can be seen in an exhibition aptly titled Beneath This Mask, from 22 Jan – 5 Mar. Born Lucy Schwob, she adopted the pseudonym to free herself from the confines of gender and went on to achieve posthumous fame for her elusive self portraits.
Comments Off on 2016 Commissions – A New, Broader Range of Opportunities
Exeter Phoenix broadens its commitment to emerging moving image talent and continues to champion, support and develop regional artists and filmmakers as new commission scheme launches for 2016.
In 2016 Exeter Phoenix will be taking a different approach to our Commission schemes.
Exeter Phoenix recognises that moving image plays an important role in reflecting our culture, establishing individual voices and can help filmmakers and artists develop new skills and long-term relationships with cast, crew and cinema audiences, both locally and nationally. Exeter Phoenix has awarded nearly 100 bursaries and commissions during the 14 years the scheme has been running. For many the process has helped establish film careers and played a vital role in building relationships within the creative industries.
We want to help launch more short filmmakers, continue to establish a more effective route to towards the creative industries and find more ways to connect filmmakers and artists with audiences. In 2016 we will be launching 5 Commission schemes. What’s changing is that we have introduced 3 new schemes:
Exeter Phoenix MicroFilm Commission 2016
Exeter Phoenix Raw Film Commission 2016
Exeter Phoenix Interactive/Documentary Short Film Commission 2016
And reworked our current short film commission to include a broader offering.
Exeter Phoenix Short Film Commissions 2016
Exeter Phoenix Artist Moving Image Commission 2016
Up to £4750 will be available for the production of 8 pieces of Moving Image in 2016. Each commission will include £240 worth of training in camera skills, sound recording, postproduction and script development as well as £1500 towards the hire of film and sound equipment. Artists and filmmakers will also receive support throughout their production and will have access to advice on distribution and crowd funding. Projects will also receive sessions in Producing, post-production, budget management and good film practice. The application and selection process will remain the same.
Exeter Phoenix has taken the decision to develop the commission schemes in a response to the launch of its new Creative Hub, and screening space, Studio 74 that opens(ed) in October and which will offer a new platform for commissioned work. The reworking will re-enforce the organisations strengths and expertise in developing moving image talent and help to offer support right the way through the development phase and beyond the first screening. The new schemes will also encourage fresh talent to apply and initiate a new window of opportunity to previously commissioned filmmakers.
Applications are now open
Our 5 categories are listed below and applications are now open. Click through for more information.
Exeter Phoenix Microfilm Commission 2016
Applications now open, closing date 29 Feb 2016. There are three opportunities available for this category.
Concise, innovative stories developed for screen through brave and lustrous filmmaking. Maximum length 3 mins. Apply or find out more >>
Exeter Phoenix Raw Film Commission 2016
Applications now open, closing date 29 Feb 2016. There is one opportunity available for this category.
Developing Devon’s most promising young filmmaking talent. Applicants aged between 16 and 24 years may apply. Apply or find out more >>
Exeter Phoenix Devon Short Film Commissions 2016
Applications now open, closing date 29 Feb 2016. There are two opportunities available for this category.
A short film based on an original idea. Two edits will be created through the commission, at 12 mins and 3 mins. Apply or find out more >>
Comments Off on Fabian’s Film Wants To Hear From You
As Culture, Data, Projector concludes its journey, Fabian’s Film wants to hear from you
Exeter Phoenix have supported Fabian’s Film’s latest film project Culture, Data, Projector. The film project concludes over the coming weeks after the close of the epic Rugby World Cup tournament 2015, having provided an alternative and diverse view of the sport, culture and climate in our city and beyond.
With support from Met Office scientists, five artists/teams were commissioned to create a series of documentary films which use data as part of their narrative. The artistic team also consisted of Amanda Whittington, David Salas, Emma George, Catherine Cartwright & Toby & Kate De Burgh bringing a range of disciplines to the table in the practice of moving image (above, from left). Each artist worked with cinematographer Chris Jones and editor Joshua Gaunt to bring their ideas to fruition.
“The Culture, Data, Projector Project brings together local artists, art institutions, cultural and business agencies, to create a supportive environment to collaborate on 5 new moving image works.
Each film responds specifically to themes around the environment, identities and cultures of the 5 nations who took part in the Rugby World Cup events in Exeter during September and October 2015. Together, they form a legacy, which celebrates the rich diversity of cultures within the South West region.”
John Sealey , Director of Fabian’s Film
In their films the artists have represented one or more of the five nations using animated, poetic or expository documentary forms and are engaging with local Italian, Georgian, Namibian, Tongan and Romanian communities. Each artist has approached the brief differently, allowing Culture, Data, Projector to present a range of spectacles through which to view the diverse cultural landscape of our city. Emma George explores identity as absence and how we are shaped by the landscape of our childhood in her film The Presence of Blue and the Absence of Green, whilst Catherine Cartwright combines her artistic practices of screen-printing and animation to create Where the Children Play, a reflection on where sport begins; in the imaginations and playtime of childhood. Alternatively, Toby & Kate De Burgh’s English Rain flicks the viewer through the TV channels of Italian weather, sports and culture coverage to explore a new wave of Italian migration that has lead to well-educated Italians leaving home looking for opportunities elsewhere – many finding their way to the UK and the South West.
Inspired by artefacts in the Tongan collection at Exeter’s RAMM museum, Amanda Whittington created Tongan Threads – an abstract documentary that weaves the viewer through the threads of the ngatu – the Tongan barkcloth that holds the key to Tongan culture. David Salas also adopts a conceptual approach, taking cultural conversations onto the very grounds of the Sandy Park Rugby stadium. Shot against this dramatic sporting backdrop, Italy and Romania 2015 seeks to explore what happens if you place international lives in the foreground and change the traditional data set. In his film Salas asks ‘What does Rugby look like without a ball?’. It’s time to play a game.
Throughout September and October, the films popped up within the city to expose these captivating international stories to the residents and visitors of Exeter. Culture, Data, Projector featured on the impressive big screens of the Exeter City Council Fanzone in Northernhay Gardens to crowds of hardy Rugby fans braving the drizzly British climate to enjoy the entertainment and sporting matches on offer at this great venue.
For those more accustomed to the warmth and comfort of the cafes, bars and cultural hotspots in Exeter, we dropped our screens into Boston Tea Party, Double Locks, Tabac (Queen St) and Exeter Phoenix and are due to visit The Rusty Bike (Howell Road) for their final stop this week.
If you have missed them, you still have the chance to view online to journey through the untold stories of a diverse cultural landscape on www.fabiansfilm.com/the-films.
Fabian’s Film are keen to collect your feedback – email a 3 word response, or a more detailed comment of one or more of the films to fabiansfilms@outlook.com or send them a tweet @FabiansFilm.
The project is supported using public funding by Arts Council England and also has funding support from Exeter City Council, who are leading the Rugby World Cup events in Exeter in Autumn, including the Fanzone that will host sport, music and film entertainment in Northernhay Gardens during the Rugby World Cup. Support has also been provided from the Met Office (Exeter), Exeter College, the Open Data Institute and Exeter Phoenix.
Fabian’s Film is a Community Interest Company based in Exeter whose mission is to make films which reflect the culturally diverse landscape of the British Isles; a form of Transnational British Film. For more information about Fabian’s Film or updates on the Culture, Data, Projector project visit the website, Facebook, and follow them on Twitter @FabiansFilm.
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