Nigel Pivaro Media City Uk Cantona

Issue 1 Summer 2009 Free THE MAGAZINE OF SALFORD COMMUNITY MEDIA PARTNERSHIP

DR HOO HITS THE NET A Doctor, a sexy assistant but not a dalek in site…

MEDIA OUR KIDS CITY UK CREATE What’s in it for Salford? MOVIES Liquored in Langworthy CANTONA Wasted in Clifton Looking For Eric SALFORD SUSS NIGEL PIVARO IN SOUNDS, From Coro to street journalism SIGHTS&NIGHTS Salford, as Stella Grundy writes Salford Community Media (page 12) is the new Manchester. Partnership In Salford, things are getting Langworthy Cornerstone done. But the creativity that’s being unleashed is coming from 451 Liverpool Street the community itself. Not from Salford M6 5QQ giant `media’ companies. Not Phone: 07534 969007 from people out to make wads. e-mail: Just people reacting to what they salfordcommunitymediapart- see around them. Salford suss. [email protected] This is Salford. Home of Tony Wilson, Happy Mondays, New This magazine aims to do two SCMP Secretariat: Alison Order, Ewan MacColl, Sir Ben things. Firstly we’re trying to Surtees (CRIS), John Kingsley, Christopher Eccleston, highlight what’s going on here. Phillips(LCA), Linda Robson Albert Finney, Robert Powell, And secondly, we’re giving a (SALT) Central Station, John Cooper showcase to people who have Clarke, …inspiration behind been on creative courses through Looking For Eric, Taste of the Salford Community Media SCMP Partners: Langworthy Honey, East Is East, Coronation Partnership (SCMP). Cornerstone, Creative Street…This is where Elbow Industry In Salford, Salford make their albums, where The We hope you enjoy the City Radio, START in Salford, Ting Tings are based…where magazine. And if you would Salford Star, Angel Centre, every single day there’s a film like to get involved further with Seedley and Langworthy being made, an album being SCMP please read the article Trust, Salford Arts Theatre, on the inside back cover and recorded, a new art work being Ordsall Community Arts. created, a new play being contact us. We’re open minded performed… and are up for anything… Salford Community Media Partnership consists of voluntary and community sector Salford Media Scene organisations in Salford active in has been devised by people the creative and media industries. taking part in current or The partnership includes a diverse and experienced range of past SCMP courses and organisations offering training in workshops in Photography, creative writing, performance, radio, film, journalism and more, to others Graphics and Design, offering training space, community Community Radio, Film development support, information and Video Production, advice & guidance. Journalism, Digital Imaging, Creative Writing and Performance. SCMP Course Tutors: Paul Adams, Maria Allen, Radio: Steve Suttie (Salford Johnson Asa, Bernard Brough, City Radio) Neil Boon, Mark Byrne, Louise Creative Writing and Cohen, Stephen Cooke, Jemma Performance: Roni Ellis Cooper, Michael Cuddy, Irene (Salford Arts Theatre) Dembrowska, Matt Finch, Dave Graphics: Andonette Lewis/ Gauton, Avril Hackett, Deborah Ben Wright (creativjam) Halligan, Suzi Hoffmann, Paul Journalism: Stephen Kingston Hughes, Ian Humphries, Paul (Salford Star) Kane, Elvira Bartolome de Photography: Steve Mimmack Lucas, Sandra Makin, Ross Film and Video: Bryan Dixon McCormack, Oliver Milatovic, Ana Laura Ruiz Padilla, Sufiya Salford Media Scene Editor: Rehman, Kieran Roberts, Mike Stephen Kingston Printed by: Caric Press Ltd, Rickits Green, Scantlebury, Mike Skeffington, Lionheart Close, Bearwood,Bournemouth, Jon Thomason, Paul Thornton, Salford Media Scene Graphics Dorset BH11 9UB Tel: 01202 574 577 Catherine Wood. Editor: Andonette Lewis www.caricpress.co.uk

Salford Media Scene: 2 It’s summer in creative Salford and we bring the city out of the shade to bathe in the spring of its potentiality…from DJs to MCs…from MC:UK to Costa Del Salford… from Cantona to Dr Hoo. There’s sounds, sights, CANTONA AT THE cinema, drama and verse CORNERSTONE? 4 kicking out from our Well they were certainly Looking community. Salford culture For Eric in Chimney Pots café… is here… CONTENTS

DR HOO? 16-17 No daleks just cutting edge mini- drama that off its head and on the FROM POP STAR TO net as Langworthy’s Stephen Lord SALFORD STAR 12-13 takes his new project universal… MOVIE MAKERS AND Number ones around the world but Stella would rather be SHAKERS 10-11/26-27 RADIO RADIO 25 creating with the community in We got from the Costa Del Matt Finch gets on air at Salford Salford… Salford to Tea Rooms in Swinton, City Radio… from Salford Cathedral to alien encounters…We get liquored WELCOME TO in Langworthy and Wasted in PARADISE! 22-23 Clifton... Simon Powell, former popcorn seller at the Red Cinema, directs his first feature film, with a host of star names…

SUMMER SOUNDS 18-21 Hitting the decks in Duchy with Shaun Spinz…Helping hands PIVARO WRITES 8-9 from hitman Brophy…Sheer class From household name in Coro from The Unexpectable…John St to ripping up the hype of Herring at Blueprint…the Suzuki’s regeneration, Nigel Pivaro explains new EP and a top night with why he moved to journalism…. salfordmusic.com…. While the Manchester International Festival gets the attention this summer, watch out for its full on fringe festival which is firing an array of exciting, affordable events which actually include Salford as an equal partner.

There’s the Future Artists launch at Urbis on 11 July where film-makers at the edge of new media, including the teams behind Looking for Lucky and Broken Britain, will give talks as part of a ‘mini film school’, while Power Salford Media Scene to the Pixel will discuss opportunities for film-makers and audiences in new media. Further details and tickets at CANTONA EXISTS Eric the postie is played by www.asha-media.com/yet Salfordian actor Steve Evets who Meanwhile Studio Salford, Robert There was a buzz around says starring in the film has been Powell Theatre and Adelphi Studio have happenings (further details at Langworthy last year when news his dream job after years of small www.notpartof.org) and there’s lots filtered through that scenes from parts in the likes of Heartbeat and of top drama going off at Salford Arts Ken Loach’s new film, starring Shameless. Theatre. Here’s the line up… Eric Cantona, were to be shot “I’m a jobbing actor me” he says Thurs July 2: The Ragged Trousered at the Cornerstone. Would Eric Philanthropist – a modern dramatic re- appear on Langworthy Road? “Have been for years. This is an working of classic Robert Tressell book ambition fulfilled. Eric Cantona’s about slumps and greed in the building Le Roi didn’t figure in the scenes in it, I’ve got the lead role... I trade. 7:30pm £5/£4 but keep your eyes peeled for mean what actor wouldn’t die for Chimney Pots cafe and the that job? It’s on my CV and if I Sun July 5 - Tues July 7: Spring Cornerstone as backdrop in never work again, this has been Awakening – three kids discover sex, Looking For Eric, which opens an absolute adventure.” freedom and pain 7:30pm £5/£4 this month. Looking For Eric is set to be Fri July 10-Sun July 12: Jesus Is A City The film centres on a local guy a huge hit at the box office. Fan – cloned from the Turin shroud, a lad Cantona isn’t just the draw but discovers he’s Jesus re-born. called Eric, a postman whose 7:30pm £5/£4 life’s falling apart and needs to the conduit for more philosophy keep it together. His postie mates on life and wife… Tues 14 & Wed 15 July: A History of get him to reach out to a hero for Pushing – three girls from three different eras aboutto give birth. How does society help…bring on Cantona. “Sometimes we don’t want to say react? things and we break relationships 7:30pm £5/£4 “I have worked in other movies because we don’t speak enough” he says “It’s why I appear in his Thur 16 & Fri 17 July: Gladiator In The and there I can hide behind the House – John Waterhouse play about character” he says “In this one I life - to encourage him to speak. battle morality. have to be myself. It was a good Or if he can’t speak, write - but 7:30pm £5/£4 experience - something special. communicate. If you cannot be together you cannot be together, Sat July 18: Solitaire – a woman enters a It’s like being…and watching surreal dream world that dissects her life. yourself being. You have to find but you must say things. That 7:30pm £5/£4 Over 18s spontaneity, be yourself, but in a is very important and this film fiction. It was a strange exercise speaks about that also. All these Not Part Of… events are at Salford Arts Theatre, Kemsing Walk, off but very interesting.” Liverpool Street, Salford M5 4BS Box Looking for Eric is in cinemas now Office: 0161 925 0111/ 07770776924 www.salfordartstheatre.co.uk

Salford Media Scene: 4 IN THE A-A-A-A-AREA

Quiffs, Riffs and Tiffs, the exhibition mums, dads and grannies can at the Salford Museum and Art marvel at how ace it all was back in Gallery showing the whole history the days… of Salford music continues to pull in the crowds and has now been On show are fab gems like an Elkie extended until January 2010. Brooks’ dress, Hooky’s bass and loads of Happy Mondays artwork For anyone who still hasn’t seen by Central Station. To keep it all it, don’t miss! Serious musos can fresh there’s always new bits being browse all the memorabilia from added and live events taking place. the 50s onwards and listen to tape recordings of people who were Quiffs Riffs and Tiffs: Salford Main Pic: Elkie Brooks opens there and have done it, man. But Sounds 1950 to Today is at Quiffs Riffs and Tiffs exhibition. it’s great for kids too. They can Salford Museum and Art Gallery, Top Pic: The legendary Alan dress up, and either get on stage Peel Park, Crescent M5 4WU. Wise and Peter Hook. with real geetars or play in the Phone 0161 778 0821 for details Photos by Alison Surtess mocked up old record store, while of events and opening times.

The best Salford summer party is always down at Douglas Green PARTY PARTY PARTY!!! near Whit Lane in Charlestown. Loads of people, top music and entertainment - and a wicked funfair.

This year Party In The Park is going to happen on August 1st as part of Your Parks Week and they’re looking for brilliant bands, singers, dancers and acts of all descriptions to take part. There’s no fee but a big stage and a great audience guaranteed.

Anyone interested please phone Stephen on 07957 982960 or e-mail [email protected] try to get into a club to drink a toast to her but the bouncers refuse them entry, thinking they’ll kick off after a few pints.

“Even if you don’t agree with the politics of the war you should respect the people out there fighting but there’s been many occasions where discrimination FILM GROUP WIN has gone on” says director, Mark Ashmore who spent a year TOP AWARD researching and making the ISLINGTON GOES film “Salford’s got a lot of war The Basic Film Group recently TO CANNES…with a memorials and everybody who’s won top prize at the Adult bullet… working class seems to know somebody who has served.” Learners Awards for The Journey, a massive mini movie about the A short film made in the dead of night at Islington Mill last winter Mark, whose film company is also trials and triumphs of people who based at Islington Mill, converted have experienced brain injuries. has been shown at the Cannes International Film Festival. The film, its cobbled courtyard into a club Broken Britain, covers the plight of entrance, while the ground floor The group star in the film, which British soldiers being discriminated doubled as the club interior. Now, they made themselves as part against in their own country. after showing the finished film of Creative Industry in Salford’s at Cannes he’s aiming to bring Raising Aspirations programme. With virtually an entire crew it to the Salford Film Festival in Our photo shows the group with and cast from Salford, the film November. the Award. begins with a group of army Meanwhile there is a preview on For a full review of The Journey mates returning from Afghanistan the net at www.myspace.com/ see page 27 commemorating one of their fallen comrades who died in action. They brokenbritain

STUDIO SALFORD way to start. The last Embryo SALFORD FILM FESTIVAL night of the current series runs on NEEDS YOUR MOVIES Now anyone in Salford can June 12 but there’s a new season perform to a live audience to try running after the summer. If you’ve made a short film or feature out new stuff… recently and you live in Salford or your You can get a slot by e-mailing movie is about Salford, you’ve got a Got a comedy routine, or a bit [email protected] good chance of getting it shown at of a theatre script, or a song or Embryo takes place upstairs this year’s Salford Film Festival which a bit of anything that can be put at the Kings Arms, 11 Bloom is in November this year. before an audience to see if it Street, Salford M3 6AN. See The high profile Festival has prided bombs or thrills? There’s a night also www.studiosalford.com/ pages/embryo.php itself in the past on showing and called Embryo at Studio Salford, premiering community films alongside upstairs at the Kings Arms pub big name movies. So if you’ve got that lets you try out material and anything that deserves the people of see the reaction. And there’s no Salford to see it, get in touch with the selection process so everyone Festival organisers before the end of gets a slot of ten minutes to August. showcase new work. The forms and any other info you During the slot the audience need is available by e-mailing Steve fills in a feedback sheet and Balshaw at [email protected]. performers get to see it at the end uk or from the website. of the night. Scary but a great www.salfordfilmfestival.org.uk Cannes: Photo by Jemma Cooper, Film award photo courtesy Film of Futurepix Cannes: Photo by Jemma Cooper,

Salford Media Scene: 6 Students from Salford College have taken over the Deck Gallery at The Lowry and installed Utopia. The START IN SALFORD exhibition, inspired by Sarah Staton’s A Clump of Plinths that’s in the When Start In Salford says it’s a main gallery, combined architecture, `centre of excellence for the arts’ engineering and art to dream up nine it means it. towers for a perfect world. With mint facilities, Start offers arts-based activities and training The first and second year Fine Arts for people who are, or maybe at students developed their work after risk of experiencing mental health exploring a range of ideas from 15th Century Thomas More to ultra difficulties or social exclusion. modern Dutch architects OMA. The And the textiles, photography, results are far reaching… ceramics and visual art coming out of this place is incredible. On The Island of Utopia runs until September 6 at The Lowry, Salford Now Start is showing some of the UTOPIA COMES Quays top work in a public exhibition TO SALFORD Open every day 11am-5pm (10am- which runs at its People’s Gallery 5pm Sats) www.thelowry.com from July 10-September 22. And there’s loads of the art online too at Start’s new all singing, all dancing website www. startinsalford.org. Some of the work is even for sale or hire. Well worth checking out.

Start In Salford is based at Brunswick House, 62 Broad Street, Salford M6 5BZ. For exhibition opening times or details of how to get involved in Start phone 0161 351 6000 or e-mail [email protected]

A PHOTO RESPONSE TO REGENERATION

As Chapel Street begins its makeover, photographers on the SCMP Digital Imaging Course were asked to respond to the area as it stands. The results were pasted on hoardings for a very public exhibition outside the Angel Centre of Chapel Street.

The Exploring Regeneration exhibition features six large black and white prints capturing the stunning, if sometimes derelict, architecture of a bygone era. Never has the Nelson pub and the old cop shop looked so grand. The exhibition will stay up as long as the weather allows and is well worth a diversion. .Regeneration: Main Pic & grpoup shot: Catherine Wood. Black & whites: left, Suzi Hoffmann, right Johnson Asa & grpoup shot: Catherine Wood. .Regeneration: Main Pic Hold The Front Page!

Seeing people’s reactions to Nigel Pivaro working as a journalist is something to behold. He’ll be interviewing them for their thoughts on regeneration and they’ll be there thinking `Didn’t he used to be Terry Duckworth in Coronation Street? It can’t be him!’ But it is. So why the switch from household name actor to journalist?

I’m now making a living from buildings we were trying to burn similarities at the root of what they journalism, after four years of down were flattened with the rest do - they have to have an interest studying and training for my new of the block three years later. in people. If you are an actor you profession. Then again, I have want to know what makes human had a fascination, some might say Every newsworthy event since of beings tick, why they react and obsession, with current affairs as international, national or regional do the things they do. So that long as I can remember. note has been stored and filed when you come to a play you away in the memory for use at can understand the mindset and And boy can I remember…I recall some future point of reference. motivation of the character you John F Kennedy being shot in I love hard news. I am also are playing and the characters Dallas, as clearly as I remember profoundly interested in people you are playing against. Ultimately when me and another three year who are part of the news, not you tell peoples’ stories, which is old kid called John Simpson tried just the people pulling the strings what you also do as a journalist. to set fire to West Park Street by but also the people affected by holding some burning matches the string pullers. That is why, I You find the story, try to hear we had smuggled from home suppose, I am in journalism. peoples’ first hand account of against that green grass you get it, stand it up by checking and growing out of old brick work. People sometimes ask me rechecking, then get the other do I find the change from my side so you have a balanced Thankfully West Park Street did former career as an actor very rounded story that will make not burn and both of us are still different? In my opinion actors sense to the reader. here to tell the story, but the and journalists have fundamental Photo by Suzi Hoffmann

Salford Media Scene: 8 The kind of stories I love are government policy in articles I properly and fairly. Which of the stuff we do in the Salford have done for the tabloids around course they do not always do. Star or on the documentaries stroke care or dangerous dogs. Getting that story together in I do with BBC’s Inside Out Every article like that I get a drama, though potentially series concerning the injustice published in the Daily Star very powerful, can take years, and corruption of regeneration. Sunday means one less about by which time the issues have Equally satisfying are stories I some wannabe flashing her moved on. People are homeless, have written for the Manchester breasts, so I can even also claim poverty-stricken or dead by the Evening News on Council a victory for feminism by default! time those stories reach the ineffeciency that lets down There are stories that must be stage, T.V. or screen. the disabled or puts people written to keep the people who And that I suppose is why after out of their homes and jobs. are paid from our taxes under twenty years as an actor I feel Or even stories exposing scrutiny and on their toes, and happier and more fulfilled in the shortcomings of central ensure that they serve the people journalism.

Unleashing Creativity

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Move along the path to work, with support to access other services to help you make a fresh start. 0161 212 4419 [email protected] Reel Salford’s first film, FH2O, was shown at the Salford Film Festival, while their debut live production, Salford:The Musical - a satire on love, loss, class war and Primark – played to sold out venues across Salford. It drew a review in The Times by Caitlin Moran…“give grateful thanks to God for projects like Salford:The Musical, which not only allow children to express themselves creatively…but also allows them to sing the line `Get out of my face because you’re really thick’…” Reel Salford’s latest movie, Aftershock, devised by its cast and co-written by Mike Skeffington, takes in Buile Hill Park, Langworthy Road and the front rooms of the cast’s houses

Interviews by Sandra Makin Photos by Linda Robson and SEX `N’ DRINKS `N’ Suzi Hoffmann FAMILY HOMES Rachel Morrison: For this film we’ve devised our own characters, and mine is based on my mum because Reel Salford are gaining a growing reputation for she went through a lot of divorces. My character, Michelle Flanagan, has producing community films and plays that are devised had another divorce and she’s sort of by Salford people and star Salford people. The latest hit the bottle because she can’t cope with another loss in her life. She’s a movie, Aftershock, goes beyond the bottle to glimpse bit of a party girl too and the family’s family life getting Smirnoffed… just being destroyed because of her drinking and she doesn’t realise it. Three girls come into my house and I Reel Salford was formed after two mums, Carol Jones and Rachel get them really drunk on vodka which mums with no acting experience Morrison, became trained drama starts all the events of the night. at all began starring with their kids workers with REELmcr and were in critically acclaimed community encouraged to set up their own Me and Carol get all our ideas and films produced by REELmcr. The company. then let the young people themselves devise it with proper characters and it’s really worked. Aftershock has got a cast of 14 and we produced it in just ten two hour sessions. It’s giving young people aspirations, like my own daughter, Chelsea, who’s in the film, is taking acting at college, and Stephen Buckley, acted in some of the early community films, is co- directing this and now wants to work behind the cameras.

Now we want to make a sequel and Reel Salford is aiming to make three films a year.

Carol Jones: In the film my husband’s turned to alcohol and I’ve turned to God. We’re divorced and my daughter ends up getting pregnant but she’s an angel in my eyes and I don’t believe she’d do that, so I’m not facing up to facts. It’s about teenagers and alcohol

and what goes on in every city. Photo by Suzi Hoffmann, Bottom: Linda Robson. Top:

Salford Media Scene: 10 I get a lot out of working with the kids and seeing their responses to the issues that are in the film. It’s pretty educational because it’s talking about drinking and teenage sex and unprotected sex. It is real. That’s why we’re called Reel Salford - everything we do is real.

Chelsea: I play Bailey in the film. She’s hyperactive and a bit of an earwigger and she’s funny. My cousin told me about the film and I wanted to be in it. Now I want to carry on doing acting.

Kerry: I play McKenzie, who hangs around with Rhiannon in the film. She’s a bit gobby and says what she thinks. I’ve never done acting apart from at school. It’s pretty good because you get experience and know that you can do another one Jade: (left) I play Angel who’s a carer Chelsea M: (right) I play Angel’s without being shy. I was a bit nervous because my mum’s an alcoholic. I can sister, Hope, and our mum is the at first. I like acting, and dancing as relate to the kids in the film drinking alcoholic who’s just useless, so I well. in the park as I used to do it too. just don’t care any more. I’ve been Some of the film is based on fact. I’ve in all the Reel Salford stuff and in Kelly: I play Rhiannon and argue been in two previous Reel Salford the films Gas and Air, A Knight In with a girl over a lad. I saw Rachel productions - Salford The Musical and Salford and Madhouse for REELmcr. on my estate and she told me about FH2O. My sister, Lindsay, is an actress I want to do performing arts and I’m the project. This is my first film and, and she played Robson Green’s doing a course at Pendleton College although remembering lines isn’t daughter in Northern Lights. I might in September. I’m glad the BBC’s easy, I’m now looking to be an actor. follow in her footsteps but I’m not coming because I could be famous. sure yet.

Wasted is the new movie by REELmcr, devised by a group of young people in Clifton, and written by Stella Grundy.

“There are some cracking actors in the group” says REELmcr director Jacqui Carroll “They’ve now TANGERINE DREAMS become the face of the FRANK alcohol awareness campaign and can be seen on posters and buses all over Salford.” Ever woken up in a police It’s very much the morning after the cell and discovered your night before as young Liam wakes With help from Salford Youth up in a police cell, with no idea of skin’s bright orange? Services, Wasted will be be used how he got there. But he’s bright to educate other young people and orange. Bit by bit, he pieces the raise issues on underage, unsafe story together, with disastrous drinking.

results and wasted young lives. Photo by Suzi Hoffmann Top: “The difference now between Manchester and Salford is that here, people just go out and do things”

From Pop Star to Salford Star

In the midst of the so-called Madchester mayhem of the 90s, Intastella were mega. The dream pop electro indie band fronted by Stella Grundy had hits all over the world. Now Stella’s doing top plays and films, and working creatively with the community in Salford. Here she explains which she would rather be doing…

I think our band, Intastella, were a number one in Germany with was used in a Mickey Rourke film. the last of the hedonists. In the the single Grandmaster. We had late 80s you just felt that you a big profile and sold lots of We weren’t All Saints, and when could do anything…just get a records but we never went into I became a mother we couldn’t bunch of mates together and do it to make money and no-one have a nanny going on tour with it. It felt like that and it was like was on the business case. Not us. It was just impossible for me that. even our manager. Even now I’m to be rock and roll and a decent wondering what happened to all mother. So I chose motherhood We had a number 1 in Japan the money and, through the age and decided to get a degree in with our album Intastella and of Google, I’m finding out all sorts drama because I didn’t want a the Family of People. We had of things – like one of our tracks proper job. Since then I haven’t

Salford Media Scene: 12 stopped working. A lot of the there who was really difficult how, after calling him a `beast’, work is very low paid but I am to work with at first but who the British government asked earning a living. And to earn came out as a really natural and him to help during World War any kind of living in the arts is, talented actor. You can’t promise 2 because they heard Hitler as everyone knows, quite a feat. anyone stardom in this day and was dabbling in the occult. I’m So I’m glad I made that choice, age but it’s nice to give someone working on the score with Vinny even though I’ll never leave music a shot. Peculiar, and also The Earlies, alone. who are half from Texas and half This sort of work is immediate from Salford. We’re going to Working in Salford is much and quick. Once you conceive perform it in an old church if we more honest than working in the the project it’s done, it’s shown, can. music industry. I’ve never had a it’s promoted and it works contract here and never needed or it doesn’t work but it’s all I’m also acting as a retarded lady one. There’s no unscrupulous there. With music it’s all about in a Chris Green feature film called people here, just not enough somebody else – will they get it Best Laid Plans that stars Steve money to go around. into the shops? Will they play it Evets who’s in Looking For Eric. on the radio? It’s not in your own It’s a weird road trip adventure I’ve done tons and tons of hands and I think making music. and very funny. We’re shooting it community stuff in Salford. I’ve I don’t envy people starting up around Prestwich and Broughton just done a play with young bands now, it’s a completely in July. It’s weird because even people from The Foyer called The different world and there’s so though I’m from Moston and live Hundred Grand Do Gooder, a much dross, it’s hard to find the in Prestwich, most of my work skit on Secret Millionaire. We did good stuff. has been done in Salford, I even it in a really short space of time made my albums here. Everyone and performed it at The Lowry. For me, fringe theatre is now a bit thinks I’m from here but I’m Kids who were excluded from like what it used to be like with not; maybe I’m just an honorary school and stuff were getting up music – it reminds me of `back in Salfordian. and performing. That’s why I like the days’ because you just need working with the community, it’s a a few good reviews and you’re The difference now between real challenge. away. I did the Nico Icon Play Manchester and Salford is that which was great and my plan is here, people just go out and do I’m about to start working on to do the Brighton Festival, the things. Manchester’s now like this a film with the Duchy Project Barbican and New York with it great big megalith, slowed down that’s using humour to get girls but I’ve put it on the back burner with trying to be something you’re to talk about sex education, and because I want to write my next not, whereas Salford skips around I’ve been working on a film for play and it’s been bugging me. like a Jack Russell and gets REELmcr called Wasted which I things done. wrote, directed and workshopped It’s called The Beast and it’s with young people from Clifton loosely based on Aleister Crowley. (see feature). There was a lad It’s about magic and spin, and Saturday

Daylight ends, night arrives. City street come alive with noise. Out to play come the girls and boys. Alcohol fuelled the people file from pub to pub. An endless procession that ends with some grub. Their taxi nights filled with drunken passion on taxi rides home.

Night time ends, daylight arrives. And the morning brings a whole new surprise. Some girl whose name you’ve already forgotten. Last night’s adventure you begin to regret. Dash for the door before she awakes. At home by breakfast, last nights fun times fading fast. Saturday nights, always such a blast.

Ian Humphreys

In Harmony An unnamed poem A stones throw with ripples of love, IN HARMONY was a recent exhibition by Langworthy based Guiding hand in a mist of love, My tantrums flow, reassured by artist, Michael Cuddy at Salford Arts Theatre. It featured trust. screen prints, cut outs and ink drawings of birds trying to co- Guide my hand heavenly exist with regeneration. princes, Do we break our silence? We took people from the So we create a fuss? SCMP Creative Writing A brief touch a flaming light course to the foyer of the A hide away of vision held back Arts Theatre and asked all the time, them give their reaction Obsession injustices, to the pictures in verse… Intrusion of peoples delusions, Are we birds to fly away or stones set in dust?

Paul Robert Thornton Images by Michael Cuddy

Salford Media Scene: 14 The Cranes Are Tall Trainers The call of the bird wakes the world to the start of another day, They’re building a church Where we rise and perform, for Stinking blinking stenching At Salford Quays the spying eyes of big brothers soggy trainers, The cranes are tall man glare, looming above. They’re only worn when I’m in The cranes are tall An intruding machine into my springy mood. our privacy, and natures own They’re bringing priests up when it’s sun shining and landscape, From the smoke I’m feeling fine, going here The only safe place from prying The cranes are tall man and there and everywhere, eyes, and the filming of our daily The cranes are tall always forgetting about the lives, weather prone to changing and Is to spread your wings and fly, They’re building frothy coffee spoiling my washed and dried shops Away from the lights and footwear all over again till it At Salford docks concrete and litter, up to the next-time sunshine’s. Then I The cranes are tall mam treetops, have to put them back to dry The cranes are tall And watch those who are before the next small episode And us from Salford watching us. Feel very small man, feel very of sun shine rays-if they ever Birdy has the right idea. small. appear, always in arrears never at the right time. Suzi Hoffmann Martine Ryan Oh sunshine sunshine come Media City back again not on another day but for another day if not for a Got no job mam, want no pity while longer so I can put on my I could never imagine being alone, I’m waitin for the bus to meeja trainers and be free to sprint not completely alone, deprived, desperation, city across the dry grass and be free They say look up for inspiration, from the heavy coat and soggy and down in desperation, Got no cash mam, got no cash trainers. Damp’s runnin down the walls like Is it me who closes myself up to this urban splash world? This place of self pity, Sufiya Rehman This wilderness, am I totally alone? Got no exams man, but life’s Starved of love and affection, gonna be easier Is it right to say I’m lost? Believe I’m catchin a tram to a life in the me when I say I’m hungry for love, meeja Don’t matter what, I’m grieving with self pity. Come on son, pass the draw, lets I can be inspired a lot, please give have another look at your CV me a chance, I beg you ….not Lets get you on that bloody TV Lets worship the god of meeja Paul Robert Thornton city Suzi Hoffmann Dr Hoo: Born in Salford

A new surreal series with an all star cast, created by Salford’s Stephen Lord, has appeared in cyberspace on the mega Virgin 1 net channel. Is this the future for drama that isn’t dross? Actor Stephen Lord, who has starred in EastEnders, in movies with Jean-Claude Van Damme and in loads of top quality tv dramas and Brit flicks, explains his move into writing, directing and creating Dr Hoo net content.

What’s Dr Hoo about? You tell me. an actor the more my appetite for Like most things, it came from my creating stuff gets fuelled. Getting head, it was put on paper and then involved as a writer and director we worked to develop and make it. feels very natural, and knowing how Putting it on the net was the great the industry works has put me in thing about it – I had freedom. I a really nice position. I set up my wasn’t constrained by the rules own production company, L.E.G of the tv or film industry. I could in London, and surrounded myself just create and put it out there in with people who could help me its truest form. Whether people out with my vision. The only thing like it or don’t like it, it was a really at times that’s lacking is funds, liberating way to work. and then its in the commissioners hands. However, as Bob Dylan With new media it’s still very early says, `times they’re a changing’. days but from scratching around We’ve started getting around these in LA I’ve found out that networks obstacles, and more good news in the States are putting 15% of is that I’ve just signed a deal with their budgets into new media, and RDF to do an animation series original content is being sought called Getting On, which I have after which is very encouraging. co written with Tony Flynn. It’s It’s good to see online channels subject to network approval, fingers working alongside their tv channels, crossed. It’s Salford’s answer to so it’s very exciting. Virgin 1 The Simpsons meets Family Guy right now are streaming Dr Hoo exclusively in the UK and it’s being Dr Hoo has also been great work in picked up by one of the biggest US progress for me to get more hands `aggregators’ so we can tap into on experience, to the point where `worldwide territories’. We want to I can direct a feature film and feel keep up the momentum and are absolutely confident. Now I’ve A Doctor, a sexy assistant and planning on doing another series got a film in development called some strange scenarios… and hopefully more. The Wrong’uns which I’ve co- but there the connection with written with Salfordian writer, Chris daleks and cybermen ends. Dr Just for the record I am still acting, Hargreaves, and we’re hoping to Hoo is cutting edge, off its head and my last gig playing Jase in shoot that at the end of this year. EastEnders for the BBC was a It’s all about keeping a dream alive. drama that’s been made purely fantastic job. But the more I do as I made my first short film, Untitled, for the net. With each of its ten on the Ordsall estate where my webisodes lasting under three Dr Hoo Cast family are from originally, and I minutes, Dr Hoo is powerful, Dr Hoo: Ian Hart - starred in Dirt, grew up in the Langworthy Flats, emotional, psyche bending stuff. Harry Potter (Prof Quirrell) and but I think that any kid from any Backbeat (John Lennon) etc. environment should at least pursue Elaine Cassidy – starred in Ghost their dream. There’s a lot of talented Is Dr Hoo brilliant or bonkers? Squad, Felicia’s Journey etc and people out there. Does Zara, his sexbomb currently starring in Harper’s Island assistant, exist in his head or on American tv, which is coming to The ethics, certainly where I come in his bed? Why is everyone the BBC in August. from are about graft. My gran was Stephen Lord – starred in a real grafter and salt of the earth out to get the Dr? And why is EastEnders (Jase Dyer), Until Death and that has stood me in good Mauritius under water? The (with Jean-Claude Van Damme) and stead. Things haven’t happened website, TV Blog, wrote that Common As Muck, etc, on a plate, you’ve got to work for Dr Hoo was “just too weird” – Richard Burgi - stars in Desperate them and if you’ve got the ability that’s recommendation enough, Housewives as Susan’s ex-husband to support it you’re in with a good Karl Mayer. chance. surely…

Salford Media Scene: 16 Elaine Cassidy on Dr Hoo: I play a character called Zara. She can’t live with Dr Hoo but can’t live without him – although when you watch it you’re not sure how Memorable lines.. real she is. When you go to the cinema or watch tv it tends to be the case that Cop: Are you for real? you’re told what to think and that really annoys me. What I love about Dr Hoo is Dr Hoo: Who, me or him? that it’s a piece of art, it’s like looking at a painting and your interpretation of it isn’t right or wrong. Whether it’s the Doctor who’s insane or the world around him, or everything’s in his head or for real. Everything is left to your own interpretation Cop: I think you need a doctor. and that’s what’s great about it. Dr Hoo: Don’t you get it? I am the doctor. The net is the only place Dr Hoo could have gone because I think that tv and film is just about advertisers and the politics that go with that. It all might change on the net but if you want to show cutting edge stuff that’s definitely the current Zara: Will we get out? stage for it.” Dr Hoo: If we find the key.

All ten webisodes of DR HOO can be seen at www.virgin1.co.uk/drhoo A NIGHT WITH SALFORDMUSIC.COM The first ever Salford Community Media Partnership Seminar took place recently at the Cornerstone in Langworthy. Johnson Asajo and Suzi Hoffmann went along to sample the bands and banter…

About fifty of us piled into the “We’re not into exclusion, and you One new face was the singer/ Cornerstone for this truly soul-lifting don’t have to be born here” they said song-writer Robin Pickford who event focused on the ‘Casa de Musica “but we just want to include anyone shook our collective soul with a ten Salford’, also known as Salfordmusic. with a strong allegiance to Salford minute emotional roller coaster of com. The site is famous for giving and its musical tradition.” a song called Fallin’ Down. What a Salford music some well deserved heartbreaker… exposure and its archives date back On the site notice board, everyone to 1955, including a history of 180 can advertise for musicians or bands, Salford music is raw and real, and Salford bands. It also has its own TV but the main message from this tiny in Salfordmusic.com we have a and radio programmes, interviews, band of fanatics was that they’re platform for the city’s vast untapped reviews and a diary of all events knackered and need more people, talent. Meanwhile, the evening was involving Salford or Salford bands. particularly young people and women a fun, juicy taster of SCMP’s future to get involved. offerings. The seminar took us through the site’s history, with SCMP’s Mark Byrne The entertainment opened the mature You can see a film of the seminar at expertly running the Q&A session with Hawaiian-shirt-clad Harpbreakers, www.salfordmusic.com salfordmusic’s John and Paul. who rocked us with their popular While they accepted that the media brand of funky blues. Forgetting the For further details of SCMP always stretches the boundaries of words of one his own songs, the lead seminars contact Linda_robson@ Manc music to include Salford, their singer simply swore and carried on sali.org.uk or phone 07534 969007 idea is to keep Salford’s musical with gusto. identity intact. Photos by Mike Cuddy and Catherine Wood

Salford Media Scene: 18 GIZ A DECK The Q&A SCMP’s Mark Byrne spends a while with Duchy DJ Shaun Spinz

Mark: Which part of Salford are you from and what influenced you to choose a career in music? Shaun: I’m from Duchy Road, I’ve never lived anywhere else. If I wasn’t doing this I’d maybe be on a flea market selling CD’s (laffs). When I left school I was thinking `When can I sign on?’, then I contacted Creative Industry in Salford (CRIS) who kicked me up the backside and brought me to college ‘cos my mum teaching people about digital was working two jobs at the time. business at MANCAT, and that got me on the national diploma music and showing others about DJing. Did you buy your own equipment to course. As part of it I had to teach a girl about mastering and she started What do you think of the community start DJing or did you get help from resources within Salford? other people? asking me about DJing…she was like, `I wanna go of the decks’. I Shaun: If it wasn’t for The Duchy Shaun: I started DJing at The Pod just felt proud that I’d influenced somebody. Project I wouldn’t have started in the Duchy Project, and if I hadn’t DJing or doing computer music, gone there I wouldn’t have done it What type of work is there out there? and if it wasn’t for CRIS I wouldn’t really. I thought I couldn’t afford the have gone to college. It’s definitely gear coming from Shaun: Well I’m still at home and a better time for youth to get into where I live. But music, there are more opportunities you don’t need don’t have many outgoings so I can work as a volunteer. I’ve done audio as technology is cheaper. It’s about the best stuff being creative not just about money. to start off, production for short films for CRIS, helped teach youths at The Duchy about how a dance track is made What are your aims and dreams? and I installed Reason software for Shaun: I’m hoping to set up more the club to use. I’ve also been doing DJing and Music Tech projects and I’m creating my own demo to send so production and sound engineering jobs, paid and unpaid. I want to be out to record companies in the I bought hardcore scene. I want to share my some cheap music and hopefully the artists that belt drive decks have loved Hardcore from the and got stuff for start will shine through free. Soon as I heard anyone one day. That’s my clearing their lofts I was dream… round there grabbing any records I could get my hands on, although lately I’ve started using CDJ cos it’s easier and cheaper.

What training have you had?

Shaun: I didn’t have any qualifications having missed a lot of school, so I took my foundation in music tech and Shaun is running a Music Technology course for SCMP. For further details contact Linda Robson on 07534 969007 Photo by Ross McCormack Photo by Ross suzuki method

SALFORD HIP The Unexpectable: The Great White Hope (Coolshade Records) Walkin’ with an attitude New Release available later in the summer. Through this concrete city Suzuki Method - Post/Office Also catch the Suzukis live at Clint With a fightin’ mentality Boon’s Boon Army night at the Lion One of Salford’s most popular rock in Stockport on July 17 or at the To reign in this city bands, Suzuki Method, release a new Kendal Calling Festival on July 31. three track EP this summer. There’s a Feel the pain in this city… Further details plus those new tracks preview up on their website now, on their website www.suzukimethod. while the physical format will be co.uk The long awaited album from Salford’s top hip hop god, The Unexpectable, has finally arrived – and it won’t just blow you away, it will take you, via Duchy, the bottom shops and Swinetown, out of this hemisphere to sonic places where Manc MCs get `put to rest’. But The Unexpectable isn’t named that for nowt – yes he can rap on the Richter scale to rip your chest out. But his hard core raw urban poetry is also set to the backing of old skool, nu skool, high school, ice cool tracks that veer from daisy age soul to funk tinged electro. With no re-hashed samples. The Great White Hope has taken three years in the making and is 14 tracks of unashamed class… from MC anthem, Salford Style, to the silky Saturday-night-in-the- back-of-the-Mini-Cooper vibes of Sussed. The Unexpectable, aka Adam Townsend, is real and he knows it…`I’m lyrically gifted that’s why I don’t play with crime’. Find this album and find proper Salford skill at its best.

The first single, Who Dat?, is released August 1st. The Great White Hope album is released 1st September. Available from www.amazon.co.uk or www. coolshadelabel.com

Salford Media Scene: 20 TALES FROM A NORTHERN CITY Blueprint Studios, M3, has been the scene of some pretty top sounds as the likes of 50 Cent, Justin Timberlake, The Ting Tings and Elbow have all recorded tracks and albums there. Now the former mission, dating from 1870, is the venue for the launch of a new limited edition album Tales From A Northern City by Salford singer songwriter, John Herring.

John’s songs are tinged with emotion, soul and a hint of jazz and he says “For me, it’s about feelings”. He’s going to be previewing the album live with the backing of a full band, and with support from Andy Needham, some special guests and Little Tales From A Northern City is on 11th July 7:30pm at Blueprint Red on the decks. It could well Studios on Queen Street, M3. Tickets £6.50. be one of those Salford nights to You can grab a preview of the album and order tickets at remember… www.reverbnation.com/johnherring

Chris Brophy is a Salford success on every aspect of the industry story in his own right. He’s an which soon developed into an acclaimed music producer who has online resource and the world’s first composed, remixed and produced virtual music industry academy. a catalogue of 66 records, including a track that stayed at Number One It’s called Music Industry Learning for eight weeks in the Billboard and teaches everything there Dance Chart in America. He’s been is to know, from production to up for a Grammy, had five Number promotion, with 36 weeks worth of Ones globally and sold over half support from music professionals a million records worldwide. The and £60 worth of free books in impressive stats go on and on… PDF format. It’s a totally online MAKIN IT FROM Chris has worked for 23 labels and service provided by email, instant hosted shows on 76 radio stations messenger, phone or SMS, and THE MASTER around the world hitting 2.2 million learners can study at their own If you live in Salford you can people. Yet until recently Chris pace on any P.C. And the best bit? enrol free at the world’s first was studio manager at Salford If you live in Salford it’s free. virtual music industry academy. City Radio and wanted to help Mark Byrne discovers how it’s aspiring artists get on in the music For more information apply online done… business. He published six books at www.musicindustrylearning.com “I wrote letter after letter offering my services for free, in exchange for basic training. But I was rejected by every single one of them.” - Simon Powell

Welcome to Paradise Simon Powell is an inspiration to everyone who thinks the creative world is no go area. The former popcorn seller from Lower Broughton is now making his first feature film in Salford. Its stars include Michelle Holmes, Tim Booth and John Henshaw. How did he do it?

I evolved from a concept to rid At the time I was a popcorn seller training. But I was rejected by my soul of demons. Demons at the Red Cinema, where the every single one of them. which arose in the childhood of Film Festival was based, and this a little boy growing up in Lower was the catalyst to realize my Instead I went away and created Broughton with dyslexia. I grew dream of writing and producing Looking Glass Films, a not up and had a unique opportunity films. After the Festival I wrote for profit based community bestowed on me to rid my soul of letter after letter to locally based organization that would offer like those demons through the very production companies offering minded people the opportunity to first Salford Film Festival in 2003. my services for free, in exchange participate and engage in creative for work experience and basic projects. I premiered my first

Salford Media Scene: 22 “Simon’s got so much short film, Wishful Thinking, at the We’re currently shooting the film Salford Film Festival in 2004. This in locations all over Salford and energy and it’s brilliant. short film, based on my violent it stars Michelle Holmes (Rita, I think it’s important to childhood, was made by film Sue and Bob Too, Coronation support people that are professionals, film students and Street etc); Tim Booth (lead people from the community. It vocalist with James); Ian Mercer trying to make it and if you centred on a dying father wishing (Gary Mallett in Coronation Street can help them, great” to apologise to his son for placing and appeared in Master and - Michelle Holmes fear into his life. The action Commander:The Far Side of flashes back to the eight year old the World with Russell Crowe); son experiencing the nightmare of Paul Hurstfield (starred in Shane living with domestic violence. Meadows’ Dead Man’s Shoes); John Henshaw (Early Doors, With the demons now captured Looking for Eric, the Post Office on celluloid, I had to learn about ads etc), Lorraine Cheshire (Early raising finance, script writing, Doors and Tittybangbang) and budget planning, producing and Suranne Jones, from Coronation directing in order to keep going Street, has agreed to be in it. in the film industry. This resulted How do I do it? I think it’s in a short film called The World because I’m putting myself out According To Liam Lovelle. Set in there and people are liking what Salford again, this film tackled the I’m doing, it’s as simple as that. impact of redundancy on a hotel They’re actually thinking `This guy night cleaner who has Aspergers is getting off his arse and he’s Syndrome. It was distributed trying to make an effort’ and they by the British Council to 26 film kind of respect that. festivals all over the world, and I’m now developing a follow up I also think it’s because there’s feature film called Scorpio which a lot of rubbish being made out continues Liam’s story. there, and they want to work Photos on something that’s got a bit of Main: Simon Powell, Top Left: Meanwhile, my first feature film, credibility and authenticity. All my Tim Booth with Simon Powell, titled Welcome To Paradise, is films tackle issues that have a currently being made. It’s about background of poverty and I like Top Michelle Holmes and above: how a middle aged guy, who can’t to think they’ve got a bit of meat Michelle Holmes, Paul Hirstfield read or write and has violence to them. filming for Welcome to Paradise. issues, deals with the break up of his relationship and tries to turn his life around to win back his partner. She looked melancholy, thoughtful and uncommunicative, yet still beautiful. Roy was captivated by her mystery, her elegance and why she behaved in such manner. He looked at her carefully: her long, sleek dark hair, the small mouth that never seemed to smile, the dark cheerless eyes under black eyebrows and the straight nose. She was Asian; undoubtedly Pakistani and wearing black clothes, matching her gloomy mood.

As long as Roy watched the girl she never talked to anybody, and on the few occasions they looked at each other her answer was indifference. Sometimes she looked at the fashion show but several times Roy noticed she was lost in thought . . . lost and watching something beyond and unknown.

Despite the loud cheers coming from the crowd she seemed not to take part in the happening, and Roy began to feel sorry for her. He thought that she was probably lonely and needing somebody who could help her. He was lonely too and thought it would be nice if they could meet and share and relieve the loneliness. But her unfriendly behaviour prevented Roy from approaching her. If at least she had smiled at him it would be different.

Unusual lass He looked around, the other girls he could speak to but it A short story by Oliver Milatovic was this girl who fascinated him. Roy watched the girl again. She looked cold and distant. The Asian fashion show was at Roy was taking another break She probably had some kind its height with dazzling lights, and he started to look at the of misfortune and to initiate a powerful sound and the crowd people around him. There were relationship would be hopeless. cheering as models wearing mostly women, some of them beautifully designed glittering married and some were single dresses strutted down the thought Roy. The ladies were Finally the fashion show began catwalk. Roy was filming the talking amongst themselves to end and slowly the gathered event and sometimes took a while watching the fashion show. people started to scatter. Roy put break to watch everything, away Suddenly, among the crowd, his camera in the bag and looked from his lens. He liked the exotic he could distinguish a girl who at the girl for the last time as she and the colourful, especially the seemed different from the rest. disappeared into the crowd. women, and at these kind of She was in her early twenties, cultural activities the chances gorgeous, but she gave the to meet somebody special were impression of being out of place

high. in comparison with the rest. Illustration by Jenny Pearse

Salford Media Scene: 24 walkin’on air...

Matt, who’s 18 and from Irlam came on the Salford City Radio course run by SCMP. Now he’s got his own show…

Matt Finch had a burning Salford City Radio manager, Steve likes of Alice in Chains, Marylin ambition to be a DJ. And Suttie, who has recently helped Manson, 9 Inch Nails and Orgy on after taking part in the Salford to win the station the Community his shows. Catch them when you Community Media Partnership Award at the Salford Business can… (SCMP) course at the beginning Awards. He co-ordinates a of the year, his shows are now team of 130 community radio Salford City Radio can be heard being broadcast on Salford City volunteers at the station, which is on 94.4FM and online at www. Radio, playing a range of grunge based in studios at the rear of the salfordcityradio.org and metal, and chatting on air Civic Centre in Swinton. about the scene. “Steve was a great tutor because “At first we were all a bit nervous he tells it straight” adds Matt “It and so everyone sat round at sounds cheesy, but he was a first not saying much” Matt great help to me and told me to recalls “But then we learned stop sounding so nervous. He loads in just three months and I also kind of gave me some voice- For further details of can do everything now, from the training. The others in the group SCMP’s radio course Call technical stuff, like working the all felt that he gave us confidence desk, to planning and delivering a and we had a great laugh – that’s Linda Robson on complete radio show.” important innit?” 07534 969007 The course was delivered by Now Matt’s confidently airing the Words and Photos by Suzi Hoffmann Words THREE FILMS – A MILLION LIVES…

Last year Creative Industry In Salford (CRIS) completed its incredibly successful Raising Aspirations programme, working with people from all walks of life.

As part of the programme, accredited by the Open College Network, different groups made short movies and documentaries. One of the films, The Journey, won its stars and creators first prize in the Salford Adult Learners Awards recently.

Reviews by Oliver Milatovic

The Journey by Basic Film Group 11mins

`I can watch a film and by the end I’ve forgotten the start. But that’s ok. Sometimes it’s more about the journey’

This warm semi-documentary gives a glimmer into the life and total optimism of people who have experienced brain injuries, narrated through the thoughts of Sally who suffers from loss of memory.

“Everything’s different but exactly the same” she explains. For her, everyday life is really difficult. She forgets directions, places and names but the film follows her driving to the Brain and Spinal Injury Centre (BASIC) where she shares her experience with others suffering the same kind of fate.

There are a series of interviews with people who relate their views and tell of the techniques they’ve been shown at the centre to help improve their lives, in one case with just a notepad and pen. What comes across is the isolation people would feel without the centre and how their self confidence has been restored. “I played football for 27 years” says one bloke “My goal is to play football again.”

The film ends with Sally driving home – and getting there… “You can be on a journey” she says “and suddenly you have to change direction”

The Journey is produced by CRIS and funded by Salford City Council SCMP Film Reviews

A PostcardSalford of Salford Community Cathedral Media 11mins Partnership runs training in film making which is accredited by the Open College Network. “We met each other; some of us for the first time. We shared our lives and recalled a place we all knew…” Here’s reviews of two short films which were made during beach already there). Three years past courses. Four different people, four different ways of life converging in one building thatlater has there’s somehow no sign of touched the Urban their lives, as Salford Cathedral awakes echoes of their past. Splash beach – so a posse of Salford Media Scene mate Hayley Doyle. Salfordians set off to find the A guy holdsFilm a postcard Reviews of Salford CathedralThe he storyreceived centres during on Sally his being time in agolden German sands. prison from his mate, who was a priest at the Cathedral. A Russian woman, who had hard times when she first came to England, recalls finding herself less alone on entering the spacetaken to and task havingby her friendher prayersover answered. Salford Community Media online dating, after she falls for a Costa Del Salford:The Movie was Partnership runs training in film bloke without even seeing him. A local man laughs as he remembers his childhood, jumping over the wall withfilmed his onfriends, a mobile scared phone stiffand of a nun’s ghost - `the purple one’. Another man lights candles and tell how Salford Cathedral arouses a deep sense of safety, making which is accredited Sally relentlessly insists that this shot, edited and completed in sanctuary andby the freedom Open College from evil. Network. mystery man is good for her, less than a day. Here’s reviews of two short especially when she compares Who says you can’t holiday The film endsfilms with which all fourwere peoplemade during sitting in himfront to herof the last altarrelationship. in communion As inwith Salford? the emotions Urban Splash’s the Cathedral awakes in each of them. Separate lives but spiritually connected. past courses. you’re wondering `Will she? Won’t proposed plans for a brighter she?’ the action ends with a twist fun Salford are rejected by film A Postcard of Salford Cathedral is produced by CRIS and funded by Salford City Council If you would like to take part in the text. makers in a fun-filled holiday in future film training please Sufiya Rehman beach with a River Irwell view. I Spy 11minscontact Linda Robson on 07534 The Conversation is produced Dare you go in to the water? 969007 by Peter Garvey, Bryan Dixon, Bright, witty and worth a watch. A secret agent suddenly appears in a park andMike hands Skeffington a briefcase and Alan to an ordinaryPaul Thornton man who is sitting on a bench reading a newspaper. He tells him he is part of a special mission and must take the briefcase to a secret base and The Conversation by Mike Jones, with support from await furtherSkeffington instructions. and The Alan fate Jones. of the mankind,Creative theIndustries fate of In the Salford galaxy, lies in his hands. 6mins Costa Del Salford was filmed and The man hasThough no idea a mini-movie what he’s debut, talking The aboutCosta but Delthe Salford:Theagent says Movie the case containsdirected by the Mike answers Skeffington, to all questions…links between UFO sightings, government research and the power of controlling information. The man just tells Conversation, caused a stir when 5mins. Arina Carroll, Alan Jones, Pete him he’s got his mind burnt out watching cheap sci-fi movies and to leave himGarvey, alone Linda but Robson, the agent and insists he takes the briefcase, and leaves. And then? Well, there’s a twist. A big twist in the tale. it was formally premiered at the In late 2005 Urban Splash edited by Andrew B Davies, with Salford Film Festival last year. announced it was going to build I Spy is produced by CRIS and funded by Salford City Council support from Creative Industries Shot inside The Tea Rooms café a beach on the River Irwell, plus In Salford. in Swinton Precinct, it stars the loads of flats and shops and stuff The movie can be seen on You café’s owner Sally Roe and her (even though there was a natural tube and www.salfordstar.com Conversation Photos by Ross McCormack Conversation Photos by Ross

Salford Media Scene: 26 THREE FILMS – A MILLION LIVES…

Last year Creative Industry In Salford (CRIS) completed its incredibly successful Raising Aspirations programme, working with people from all walks of life.

Reviews by Oliver Milatovic

The Journey by Basic Film Group 11mins

`I can watch a film and by the end I’ve forgotten the start. But that’s ok. Sometimes it’s more about the journey’

This warm semi-documentary gives a glimmer into the life and total optimism of people who have experienced brain injuries, narrated through the thoughts of Sally who suffers from loss of memory.

There are a series of interviews with people who relate their views and tell of the techniques they’ve been shown at the centre to help improve their lives, in one case with just a notepad and pen. What comes across is the isolation people would feel without the centre and how their self confidence has been restored. “I played football for 27 years”Three says one bloke Films“My goal is to play – football A again.”Million Lives…

The film ends with Sally driving home – and getting there… Last year Creative Industry In Salford (CRIS) completed its incredibly successful “You can be on a journey” she says “and suddenly you have to change direction” Raising Aspirations programme, working with people from all walks of life. As part of the programme, accredited by the Open College Network, different groups made The Journey is produced by CRIS and funded by Salford City Council short movies and documentaries. One of the films, The Journey, won its stars and creators first prize in the Salford Adult Learners Awards recently. - Reviews by Oliver Milatovic

The Journey by Basic Film Group direction” I Spy 11mins 11mins A Postcard of Salford Cathedral A secret agent suddenly appears A Postcard of Salford Cathedral 11mins `I can watch a film and by the end 11mins in a park and hands a briefcase I’ve forgotten the start. But that’s to an ordinary man who is sitting ok. Sometimes it’s more about the “We met each other; some of us for on a bench reading a newspaper. “We met each other; some of us for the first time. We shared our lives and recalled a place we all knew…” journey’ the first time. We shared our lives and He tells him he is part of a special recalled a place we all knew…” mission and must take the briefcase This warm semi-documentary to a secret base and await further Four different people, four different ways of life converging in one building that has somehow touched their lives, as Salford givesCathedral a glimmer awakes into the lifeechoes and of theirFour past. different people, four different instructions. The fate of the mankind, total optimism of people who have ways of life converging in one building the fate of the galaxy, lies in his experienced brain injuries, narrated that has somehow touched their lives, hands. A guy holds a postcard of Salford Cathedral he received during his time in a German prison from his mate, who was a priestthrough at the the Cathedral. thoughts of ASally Russian who woman,as Salford who Cathedral had hard awakes times echoes when she first came to England, recalls finding herself less alone on entering the space and having her prayers answered. suffers from loss of memory. of their past. The man has no idea what he’s talking about but the agent says “Everything’s different but exactly the A guy holds a postcard of Salford the case contains the answers to A local man laughs as he remembers his childhood, jumping over the wall with his friends, scared stiff of a nun’s ghost - `thesame” purple she one’.explains. Another For her, everydayman lights Cathedral candles he and received tell duringhow Salfordhis time Cathedralall questions…links arouses between a deep UFO sense of safety, sanctuary and freedom from evil. life is really difficult. She forgets in a German prison from his mate, sightings, government research and directions, places and names but the who was a priest at the Cathedral. A the power of controlling information. film follows her driving to the Brain Russian woman, who had hard times The man just tells him he’s got his The film ends with all four people sitting in front of the altar in communion with the emotions the Cathedral awakes in each andof them. Spinal InjurySeparate Centre lives(BASIC) but spirituallywhen she connected. first came to England, mind burnt out watching cheap sci-fi where she shares her experience with recalls finding herself less alone on movies and to leave him alone but the others suffering the same kind of fate. entering the space and having her agent insists he takes the briefcase, A Postcard of Salford Cathedral is produced by CRIS and funded by Salford City Council prayers answered. and leaves. And then? Well, there’s a There are a series of interviews with twist. A big twist in the tale. people who relate their views and A local man laughs as he remembers I Spy 11mins tell of the techniques they’ve been his childhood, jumping over the wall shown at the centre to help improve with his friends, scared stiff of a nun’s their lives, in one case with just ghost - `the purple one’. Another man The Journey is produced by A secret agent suddenly appears in a park and hands a briefcase to an ordinary man who is sitting on a bench reading a newspaper. He tells him he is part of a special mission and must take the briefcase to a secret base and a notepad and pen. What comes lights candles and tell how Salford CRIS and funded by Salford await further instructions. The fate of the mankind, the fate of the galaxy, lies in his hands. across is the isolation people would Cathedral arouses a deep sense of feel without the centre and how their safety, sanctuary and freedom from City Council self confidence has been restored. evil. A Postcard of Salford The man has no idea what he’s talking about but the agent says the case contains the answers to all questions…links between“I played UFO football sightings, for 27 years” government says research and the power of controlling information. The man just tells one bloke “My goal is to play football The film ends with all four people Cathedral is produced by him he’s got his mind burnt out watching cheap sci-fi movies and to leave him alone but the agent insists he takes the briefcase,again.” and leaves. And then? Well,sitting there’s in front a of twist. the altar A inbig twist in theCRIS tale. and funded by Salford communion with the emotions City Council I Spy is produced by CRIS and funded by Salford City Council The film ends with Sally driving home the Cathedral awakes in each of – and getting there… them. Separate lives but spiritually I Spy is produced by CRIS “You can be on a journey” she says connected. and funded by Salford City “and suddenly you have to change Council Salford Council, Salford Urban Regeneration Company and North West Development Agency. By 2012 it’s hoped the site will be transformed into a Hollywood style space-age city with swanky apartments, offices and penthouses, film and media studios. It is also hoped that MC:UK `will eventually house 15,000 jobs’, although not one single company apart from the BBC and the University has yet signed up.

So, what do local people think about all this? We went to Salford Precinct and found hopes and fears. Whilst some trust that our council has been wise, others were more cynical (see panel).

Salford Council is certainly optimistic, stating “We see it as a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference for our communities and to create tangible opportunities for our residents.”

Alison Surtees is the Project Director for CRIS (Creative Industry in Salford) and is working on a National Centre of Excellence for Community Media that will sit at the heart of Media City UK, along with Radio Regen, The Community Media Association, NWDA, Media City UK People and Communities Programme and other partners to secure the project. She believes strongly that it’s important for local organisations to get involved with MediaCityUK as soon as possible.

“It would be too easy for me to sit back and criticise” she says “But unless you engage with the process, you are never going to change anything. We share a passion in the voluntary sector, to have an impact on the lives of people at grassroots level and what we have here is an opportunity to be in there from the MC:UK beginning and not as an afterthought. “We are aiming for a National Centre of Excellence in Community Media, a flagship, a space for schools, Swanky apartments, film studios, the BBC and bucket loads community projects and others to of public money – but what does Salford get out of it? develop digital talent” she adds “It’s still early days, but it’s a concrete plan and it’s looking extremely positive.” Mike Skeffington reports on the efforts being made to ensure The project is about capacity building local people are in with a chance of jobs in the creative to meet the needs of the digital age. industry and beyond… But while she’s talking and pushing for creative opportunities, Alison is also realistic about the kind of jobs Been down to the Quays lately? If so, broadcasting currently operating out MC:UK might bring: “I believe the you will have noticed the giant cranes of Manchester, while the University vast majority of jobs will be in the and sprawling building site which will of Salford will also have a brand new ‘service sector’ – the restaurants, become MediaCityUK, or MC:UK, the campus for more than 800 students banks, retail and everything which new home of the BBC plus assorted and staff. comes with a new mini-city”. creative and digital businesses. However the aim is to deliver skills The project is a private venture by in media that impact on all of these The BBC will move five London- Peel Holdings, with over £60million sectors, and with the right support based departments, along with local worth of public support from

she believes that local people have Illustration by Michael Cuddy

Salford Media Scene: 28 the same opportunities at cracking the opportunities for Salford people in media industry as anyone else. MediaCityUK. And if we don’t get them, the cynics will be proved So the question is, do we believe the right and the wealth gap between hype? According to Salford Council the Quays and the rest of Salford joint venture company, Urban Vision, so will become even wider, with all the far only “10% of the on-site workforce resulting social problems. at MediaCityUK are from Salford”. Which isn’t a good start. Meanwhile, the As the lady on Salford Precinct University of Salford is shedding 150 explained, the last time the Quays staff to provide `financial headroom’ to was regenerated there were no pay for its new MC:UK base. benefits for local people. This time, having already committed over There are community organisations £60million of public money, they pushing hard for jobs, training and daren’t get it wrong.

MEDIA CITY? What did the shoppers on the Precinct think? “I think it’s a bonus for the area, there’ll be jobs for technicians, presenters, IT, security…..I like to think we’ve got those skills in Salford.” Steve Clarkeson.

“It’s debatable about the jobs. I would imagine the BBC will want graduates. I really hope there will be jobs for us because most of us “We’re Salford girls, but it’s of no really want to work and haven’t benefit to us. It’s happened before been given chances in the past”. when they promised jobs at the Mrs Fereday Quays – but they brought all their own workers with them. There’s “I think Media City is a good no jobs here to start with so I don’t thing. We can see how things think it’s right when they bring are improving in Ordsall and their own, but you are not going to Langworthy. This will improve “It will have a good impact. It will stop them. We can’t win can we?” neglected areas like these.” bring an influx of more people Lyn Carew and Mary Howard. Linda Corfield to the area which means more development. It’s a bit hit and miss though, because until it comes you don’t know”. Paul Shortman.

Special SCMP Seminar on Media City Guest speakers: “I don’t know if I have faith because Jane Deane (Programme Director I think people from London will get MediaCityUK) the jobs” Alison Surtees (Creative Industry in Jean Rose. Salford) 7pm Tues June 16 “I definitely want to get a job there” Langworthy Cornerstone Adam Brown. “I can’t think of any negatives, Admission limited to 30 people so it will bring jobs for Salford please order free tickets in advance and Manchester” Jean-Pierre, from Linda Robson 07534 969007 student, Salford University. salfordcommunitymediapartner-

[email protected] Interviews and photos by Mike Skeffington Jon Thomason A SCMP IS BORN…

The Story of Salford Community Media Partnership By John Phillips, Manager; Langworthy Cornerstone

Two years ago, a great partnership and just over two ‘things in the pipeline’ so to speak, announcement was made that months later had been awarded but it is disappointing that nearly glass and steel palaces were to be our first grant (Neighbourhood two years after we started talking, created down on the Quays which Learning in Deprived Communities this aspect has been fairly unfruitful would create thousands of jobs fund administered through Salford so far. We know that `Salford’s Got and millions of pounds for the local Council). It meant that we were Talent’, so here’s hoping that during economy…and lo, Media City UK able to target people who needed our next two years we can get that was born. support most, especially jobseekers talent used to its full potential. and those that hadn’t done any Within a couple of weeks of learning for a while. Thanks go out to Linda our the announcement folks from excellent Learning Coordinator, Salford’s community and media After that first year we knew that Alison from CRIS, all the member organisations met up and decided SCMP was a winner. And In our organisations and freelancers who that by working together they would second year (funded again by make it happen, and especially the stand a much better chance of NLDC) we’ve been able to expand SCMP members themselves for helping local people to get a foot in the courses and run a membership getting involved and giving it a go. the door when Media City opened scheme with social events and for business. seminars, plus this magazine. The If you want further details on all members themselves, meanwhile, this or want to know more, just We developed plans for an exciting have become involved in their own contact Linda Robson on 07534 programme of training & creative projects So SCMP is going 969007 salfordcommunitymedia- and practical experience across a great really. [email protected] range of creative subjects like film making, radio, digital photography, The other major reason for forming Salford Community Media journalism and other stuff, allowing SCMP was to get something Partnership people to try out the media world. from Media City for local people. Langworthy Cornerstone No experience needed. Meetings have taken place, reports 451 Liverpool Street We formed ourselves into a simple have been produced and there are Salford M6 5QQ

Salford Media Scene: 30 WHAT’S ON? Performances on throughout the year from new writing, drama, comedy, special events and festivals HIRE THE SPACE Hourly, daily and weekly rates available. Whether it’s for a one off event, rehearsal or performance then this is the space for you CLASSES For children and adults full details on our website

tel 0161 925 0111 / 07770776924 www.salfordartstheatre.co.uk email [email protected] Kemsing Walk, Off Liverpool St, Salford M5 4BS SALFORD MEDIA SCENE is the magazine of Salford Community Media Partnership

Media Courses…Seminars…Workshops… Taster Days... Exhibitions…Fun Nights…

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Salford Media Scene: 32