22-year-old Maria Gardner, from Coventry, has been crowned Miss Birmingham 2016

Having travelled the world on her modelling expeditions, Maria Gardner is no stranger to the spotlight. The 22-year-old model, who works in Birmingham, was crowned the new Miss Birmingham 2016 winner at last night’s glitzy final at the Macdonald Burlington Hotel.

Her first time entering the competition, Maria admitted that she was nervous entering but it was the charity, Beauty with a Purpose, and the opportunity to become an ambassador for Birmingham that secured her application.

“I was so grateful just to be a finalist! It still hasn’t sunk in that I was crowned the winner”, said Maria, “I always commit 100% into everything I do and this has proven to me that hard work can pay off and you can achieve your dreams”.

Maria Gardner beat off 39 other contestants to be crowned Miss Birmingham 2016

Dressed in an elegant silver gown, Maria beat off 39 other contestants on the night in one of the biggest Miss England heats in the country with over 850 applications. Through winning the Miss Birmingham title, Maria will now go on to represent Birmingham at the Miss England grand final taking place in Southport where, should she win, she can go on to compete in Miss World, the legendary global contest which has been running since 1951.

After raising funds for humanitarian charity Beauty with a Purpose, Maria said on her plans, “I can’t wait to begin my journey and go to sleep every night and feel, ‘Yes, I have achieved something great today and made a difference. As Miss Birmingham, the charity element is the main reason I loved doing this contest”.

Miss Birmingham Maria Gardner will now join reigning Mr Birmingham Joshua Williams, 18 (pictured on right), in representing Birmingham for the oncoming year

She will now join reigning Mr Birmingham Joshua Williams, 18 from Castle Bromwich, in representing Birmingham for the oncoming year. After the event, Joshua said, “It has been a fantastic year for the competition and it has been a true pleasure being able to meet each of the girls. I’m so excited to welcome Maria into the Miss England family and I am sure she will be incredible in Miss England”.

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Find out more about Miss England West Midlands at www.missenglandwm.com.

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Jake Mundel

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The Birmingham Zombie Walk raised over £10,000 for Birmingham Children’s Hospital last year

Birmingham’s annual Zombie Walk returns for its eighth year this Saturday 18 June, organisers have announced.

Back by popular demand, over one thousand ‘living dead’ are expected to take to the city’s streets to raise money for Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity.

The cadaverous crowd will gather on ‘Judgement Day’ to weave in and out of the backstreets of Birmingham, making eerie groans and showing off their best zombie slow walks.

Last year tonnes of terrifying zombies ‘rose from the dead’ to raise over £10,000 to support children and young people treated at the hospital.

The Birmingham Zombie Walk has taken place every year in the city, since 2009

Make-up artists will also be on-hand on the day, equipped with morbid make-up and litres of fake blood, to ensure participants are looking as ghastly as possible.

Miranda Williams, Public Fundraising Manager at Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity, said: “We have been overwhelmed by the success of the event, which has raised over £30,000 for our hospital since it started and made a huge difference to the lives of our brave children and their families.

“This year we want to see a hoard of participants dressed in their scariest of attires and wearing their most blood-curdling make-up to help us make our eighth Zombie Walk the best yet. Plus, we’d love our fully-fledged zombies to muster the support of their friends, family and colleagues by getting sponsored to take part.”

The 8th annual Birmingham Zombie Walk takes place on Saturday 18th June, 2016

Event founder Jamie Chapman added: “It’s been truly fantastic to watch the Zombie Walk grow in popularity and create such a buzz throughout Birmingham.

“The public’s reaction is always amazing and seeing thousands of zombies stumbling through the city centre is definitely not something to be missed, so sign up and help to raise valuable funds for Birmingham Children’s Hospital.”

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Tickets for the Birmingham Zombie Walk 2016 cost £5 per person and can be purchased in advance. Three different make-up packages are available and need to be pre-booked online, starting from an additional £5 per person. For further information and to purchase tickets, visit: www.birminghamzombies.com.

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Jon Bentley presents a special plaque commemorating the invention of the Lucas-Abrams Pacemaker at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham

Gadget Show presenter Jon Bentley has unveiled a special blue plaque in Birmingham to celebrate some of the regions most useful inventions.

Gadgets selected for special consideration were the results of a poll, held by The Gadget Show Live in conjunction with Visit Birmingham, to find the region’s most important inventions from times gone by.  The winners include the pacemaker, the pen and the kettle.

To mark the event, show presenter Jon Bentley unveiled a commemorative plaque at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, home of the Lucas Abrams Pacemaker.

The unveiling took place yesterday, to pay tribute to a pioneering pacemaker fitted by Leon Abrams who was a surgeon at the hospital in 1960.

Birmingham’s relationship with technology, innovation and all things gadgetry goes back hundreds of years, with some of the world’s best ever inventions starting life in the minds and on the drawing boards of Birmingham’s finest forefathers.

The top three winning inventions comprise not only of the Lucas Abrams pacemaker, invented in 1960 by Leon Abrams and first fitted at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital; but also the pen, invented by John Mitchell in Newhall Street during 1822; and the first immersed heating resistor, which paved the way for the first electric kettles, invented in 1922 by Arthur L. Large of Bulpitt & Sons.

Jon Bentley, presenter of The Gadget Show, which is filmed in Birmingham, comments, “The UK is extremely lucky to have a production powerhouse like Birmingham, putting Britain at the forefront of past, present and future technical innovation. From time-saving products like the kettle – to life-saving inventions like the pacemaker – Birmingham’s gadget heritage is hard to beat. It’s great to be able to celebrate the products that the people of Birmingham are proudest of.”

Jon Bentley presents a special plaque commemorating the invention of the Lucas-Abrams pacemaker at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham

Visit Birmingham, champions of local innovation who helped support the campaign.

Emma Gray, director of marketing and communications, Marketing Birmingham, said: “Birmingham’s history is a timeline of tech-savvy achievement. A city that once pioneered the creation of life-changing gadgets is now driving forward a thriving digital and technology sector.

“Birmingham has produced some of the most inventive minds, responsible for the creation of innovative, important gadgets ranging from the camera to the microphone. It is fantastic to be able to pay homage to the creators of the kettle, pen and pacemaker who turned their brilliant ideas into a digital reality.”

Other local inventions to note included the bicycle bell, box cameras, electrical heat and detectors, the electric car horn, gas lighting, the letter copying machine, the microwave oven, a number of innovative record players, roller skates and the skateboard, the cooker, the hand grenade, the microphone, x-ray scanner, vacuum cleaner, the whistle, the windscreen wiper, and also various innovations in technology from previous generations of the Berners-Lee family, and their son, Tim Berners-Lee’s, World Wide Web invention.

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The Gadget Show Live is on at the NEC between 31^st March – 3^rd April.

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The Library of Birmingham lit up green and white for victims of the recent Pakistan attacks

The Library of Birmingham was lit up green yesterday, as a mark of solidarity and respect with the people of Pakistan, after a suicide bombing in the country killed 70 on Sunday.

Coinciding with a special vigil held at the city’s Pakistani consulate on Monday, the city centre landmark and largest cultural space in Europe, was awash with green and white – the colours of the Pakistan flag – in tribute of those who lost their lives in the Lahore attack.

At least 300 people were also injured in the terrorist attack, with officials expecting the death toll to rise.

Members of Lahore’s minority Christian community, who had gathered to celebrate Easter at a funfair, were caught up in the blast. However, most of those who died in the attack were Muslims.

@MKMRogers @MattBennett29 @ArtyAbid @NNinBrum @BalsallHeathF @Saiqs736 #birmingham #pakistan #peace #love #freedom pic.twitter.com/u0SUhxGDTh

— clicktoshoot (@clicktoshoot) March 28, 2016

Yesterday, representatives from various faiths and communities gathered in Birmingham, at the Consulate of Pakistan at The Wharf in Bridge Street, to pay their respects to those who died in the attacks.

Ministers, imams, and community leaders joined members of the public to express solidarity with the victims, and to light candles in their memory.

Cllr. Waseem Zaffar speaking at the candle-lit vigil in Birmingham yesterday, for the victims of the terrorist attack in Pakistan (Photograph: Waseem Zaffar)

Waseem Zaffar, Labour councillor for Lozells East & Handsworth ward, was amongst those who called and attended the vigil yesterday evening.

Speaking to I Am Birmingham, he said: “Brummies of all faith and no faith gathered to pray together in solidarity for the victims of the horrific terrorist attack in Lahore, but also attacks in Paris, Brusells, Ankara, Nigeria, Ivory Coast and for those on the front line putting their life’s on the life against terrorism. The peace loving people across the world will not let terrorism win.”

Northfield MP Richard Burden lights a candle for the victims of the Pakistan terror attack, at a vigil in Birmingham yesterday (Photograph: Waseem Zaffar)

Northfield Labour MP Richard Burden also attended the vigil, speaking about his grief and “solidarity with the people of Lahore”.

A privilege to say a few words of solidarity with the people of #Lahore at this evening’s vigil in Birmingham pic.twitter.com/eYn3Ljfkxu

— Richard Burden MP (@RichardBurdenMP) March 28, 2016

Cllr. Mariam Khan was joined by Cllr. Ansar Ali Khan (right), at the Birmingham vigil for the victims of the Lahore attacks (Photograph: Baseer Ahmad)

Cllr. Mariam Khan (Lab) joined the vigil, condemning those who attacked the innocent and calling for united solidarity, stating, “Birmingham is united against all terrorism around the world.”

An initial online post from Cllr. Khan drew some speculation that the images of the Library of Birmingham being lit up green may have been doctored, due to the Library not being open to public over the Easter weekend, and there having been no similar display of solidarity for victims of the recent Turkish bombings.

Critics also suggested the photographs may be from recent St Patricks’ Day celebrations.

However, a spokesperson for the Birmingham City Council has confirmed to I Am Birmingham that the library was indeed lit up green yesterday as a tribute to those affected by the attacks in Lahore. Cllr. Mariam Khan has also confirmed that she was there in person.

Doubt over the pictures may have been cautiously well-intended. Photographs purportedly showing the Eiffel Tower lit up green over the weekend, in response to the Pakistan tragedy, appear to be taken after South Africa’s 2007 Rugby World Cup win.

Representatives from various faiths and community groups spoke at the Birmingham vigil, held in memory of the victims of the terrorists attacks in Lahore (Photograph: Waseem Zaffar)

Prayers were recited at the Birmingham vigil, held in memory of the victims of the terrorists attacks in Lahore (Photograph: Waseem Zaffar)

Thoughts and prayers with everyone affected in Lahore. #lahore pic.twitter.com/sHn3XPfkd6

— Acocks Green Police (@AcocksGreenWMP) March 27, 2016

Only a week ago, the Library of Birmingham was also lit up in the Belgian tricolour, following the terrorist attacks in Brussels, which left 35 dead.

The Library of Birmingham is lit up in the colours of the Belgium flag as a mark of solidarity. @MKMRogers pic.twitter.com/khzltyomzs

— Birmingham Updates (@BhamUpdates) March 22, 2016

Last week, the Library of Birmingham was lit-up in the Belgian tricolour – black, yellow and red – following the terrorist attacks in Brussels which killed 35 (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

According to the 2011 population census, Birmingham has an ethnically Pakistani community of 140,000, around 12% of the overall population.

The Pakistan High Commission in London has also organised a candlelight vigil to be held today, Tuesday, 29 March, at 6pm. The Vigil will be held at the Pakistan High Commission in London “to honour the memory of Lahore terrorist attack victims, and to express solidarity with their families”.

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A special 25th anniversary Disney On Ice comes to Birmingham from April 6

Disney favourites Mickey and Minnie Mouse are back to celebrate twenty-five years of Disney on Ice, and are bringing the celebratory fun and mayhem to the city next month.

Between the 6th and 10th of April, the Genting Arena in Birmingham will be full of excited little Queen Elsa’s and Peter Pan’s as they will be transported between four different Disney classics.

Donald and Daisy Duck , Goofy and Pluto and just some of the classic characters to walk you through each story . Including Frozen, The Little Mermaid , Peter Pan and The Lion King.   

Queen Elsa and Princess Anna of Arendelle from Disney’s Frozen are some of the character performing at the show

You’ll be captivated by the amazing choreography and music of many familiar Disney hits and rock and-roll classics. The whole family is sure to experience a magical journey to far-away lands, without ever leaving their seats!

Disney classics including The Lion King are brought to life the amazing live versions of the show

“It’s an extraordinary show and a family vacation all rolled into one incredible night,” explains show Producer Kenneth Feld.

“You really get a sense you are traveling right alongside Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and their friends. We can’t wait for the UK audience to celebrate the Silver Anniversary of Disney On Ice with us! ”  

Disney On Ice presents Silver Anniversary Celebrations is appearing across the UK from 16th March to 15th May, and visiting UK cities Liverpool, Birmingham, London, Cardiff, Glasgow, Leeds and Nottingham. For a complete list of tour dates, visit  the Disney On Ice website: www.disneyonice.co.uk.

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Disney On Ice presents Silver Anniversary Celebration is on at the Genting Arena Birmingham between 6th and 10th April. Tickets are on sale at www.disneyonice.co.uk.

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Carlie Ann-Hare

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Grand Central Birmingham has been working with The Year of Arts & Young People to help engage more young people in arts opportunities (Photograph: The High Sheriff 15)

Six months after the launch of Grand Central Birmingham, one of the cities most talked about developments, the centre is providing a nationwide platform for young, talented filmmakers.

Grand Central has partnered with The Year of Arts & Young People in Birmingham (YAY 16) to work towards engaging more young people to take part in opportunities offered by theatres, galleries and concert halls.

Through Maverick TV, MAIA Creatives, the West Midlands High Sheriff and Birmingham City Council the ‘Through Your Eyes Project’ has enabled talented young creatives to try their hand at film making and animation to create a short 10 second film capturing Birmingham through their eyes.

All films were submitted to an esteemed judging panel for the chance to win their digital shorts being exhibited at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery.

Grand Central will be providing 10 of the winning entries with a public platform to showcase their film via the three media eyes located at the entrances of Grand Central and New Street station (Photograph: The High Sheriff 15)

The ‘Through Your Eyes Project’ has enabled talented young creatives to try their hand at film making and animation to create a short 10 second film capturing Birmingham through their eyes (Photograph: The High Sheriff 15)

Partnering with the project which has been funded by Birmingham City Council, Grand Central will be providing 10 of the winning entries with a public platform to showcase their film via the three media eyes located at the entrances of Grand Central and New Street station.

Grand Central’s marketing manager, Danielle Bozward who was invited to sit on the judging panel, said: “It was an honour for Grand Central to work closely with the YAY 16 project. Birmingham is a city that boasts some of the finest creative talent, especially in the arts so being able to provide a platform for young people to showcase their work to the rest of the nation, is very exciting.

Grand Central Birmingham aims to support and invest in the artistic and cultural energy of the city (Photograph: The High Sheriff 15)

“The dedication and talent displayed by these brilliant individuals really demonstrates the potential that young people from Birmingham can offer our city, which we avidly encourage at Grand Central.”

The £150m five-year transformation of Grand Central Birmingham has, since opening, welcomed more than 9.5 million visitors, and has surpassed expectations by delivering not only a premium shopping and dining destination, a home to an aspiring range of retailers and restaurants, but also creating a centre that has truly become the heart of the city.

During the past six months, Grand Central has had a strong investment in the local community, not only through the thousands of jobs created in the centre and the economic growth the project has generated for the region, but also through the engagement of local people supporting the development of community arts and culture by embracing local talent and igniting young people’s imaginations and passions.

The recent partnership with YAY 16 echoes the desire of Grand Central to support and invest in the artistic and cultural energy of the city, an ethos which has been embedded in the centre since day one.

The Grand Central Birmingham project has been funded by Birmingham City Council (Photograph: The High Sheriff 15)

When Grand Central Birmingham finally opened its doors to shoppers late last September, the launch was rooted firmly in the Birmingham local community by collaborating with young performers from across the region. 66 performers from Aston Performing Arts Academy aged from 7-24 delivered 6 flash-mob performances across the venue. The performers sang and danced 6 musical numbers. From contemporary hits such as Uptown Funk by Bruno Mars, to pop classics like the Jackson Five’s I Want You Back.

Tru Powell, Creative and Events Director from Aston Performing Arts Academy, was thrilled to be part of the launch commenting; “The Grand Central launch was the biggest performance we have ever had the opportunity to be involved. Since our involvement, it has boosted the confidence of our young performers and given them the encouragement to want to continue dancing in front of national audiences.”

Bozward concluded, “Six months on since opening, these are the investments we want to continue to make in our city, dedicating time and skills into generating opportunities in the arts and culture of Birmingham and creating a community destination which everyone can enjoy.”
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Anyone wishing to contribute or get involved with YAY16 can find out more here. For updates on the work of YAY16, visit: www.yay16.wordpress.com.

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Birmingham-based actor Vimal Korpal appears in the new expletive-laden promo for the Be Festival, taking place in June (Image: Be Festival / 144)

The team behind Birmingham’s Be Festival, one of the city’s main summer arts and culture showcase events, has launched an expletive-laden promotional video with the tagline “F***ing Birmingham, they did it again”.

Created by city-based videographers 144, the trailer depicts various Birmingham actors posing as London cultural elitists fuming upon realising Birmingham “has outdone its neighbours once again”.

The short film begins with exterior location shots of London skyscrapers and landmarks – including ‘The Gherkin’, The London Eye and Big Ben – spliced with internal office and boardroom scenes cleverly filmed in Birmingham to double up as the capital.

A sharply-dressed and somewhat concerned-looking office secretary is seen making her way up an elevator with ‘confidential’ papers, before walking through an office and then into a boardroom, where an executive-type can be heard exclaiming “No one can touch us!”.

Scenes were filmed in Birmingham to double up as locations in London for the Be Festival promotional video (Image: Be Festival / 144)

The Be Festival trailer was produced by Birmingham-based film production company 144 (Image: Be Festival / 144)

The secretary interrupts the meeting to hand him the papers which, upon viewing, cause him to become visibly upset. He and a multitude of suited-up characters are then all shown angrily proclaiming, “F***ing Birmingham”, followed by the campaign’s hashtag tagline: #TheyDidItAgain.

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Sharing the video online, event organisers wrote: “That’s right. Birmingham has outdone its neighbours once again”, while warning of “strong language throughout”.

Be Festival (short for Birmingham European Festival) takes place annually in June, at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre. Each year a daring and innovative programme of boundary pushing theatre, dance, comedy, circus, music, visual and performing arts takes place turning the theatre’s rarely seen back-stages into a den of creativity, discovery and exchange where diverse cultures are celebrated.

Characters in the Be Festival video are shown cursing Birmingham, repeating “Fucking Birmingham” throughout (Image: Be Festival / 144)

The annual festival grew out of a spirit of exchange prevalent in Birmingham’s arts scene in 2010. Inspired by positive experiences touring to European festivals, Isla Aguilar, Miguel Oyarzun and Mike Tweddle were met with great enthusiasm to the idea of a new arts festival in Birmingham and soon fleshed out a plan on the back of a napkin at a Birmingham curry house.

The Be Festival video features an array of characters, with Birmingham actors playing London executive-types (Image: Be Festival / 144)

The Be Festival takes place in June, at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre (Image: Be Festival / 144)

According to organisers, “Be Festival turns the notion of conventional theatre upside down. It crosses borders, creative disciplines and blurs the boundary between audience and artist.”

The Be Festival promo video uses the tagline and hashtag “They did it again” (Image: Be Festival / 144)

Vimal Korpal, an actor from Sutton Coldfield, appears in the video. He was surprised by how well the production turned out.

“The video is brilliant wonderfully put together by the team at Be Festival, directed by Miguel Oyarzun and shot by filmmaker Edward Lawes.

“I think the video sums it up, Birmingham has lots of creative talent with actors, directors, writers, film makers, theatre makers and as stated Birmingham is the house for European performances – so go and see the shows because Birmingham is at the forefront of creativity.”

The Be Festival takes place in Birmingham between 21st and 25th June (Image: Be Festival / 144)

The Be Festival is being supported by a number of arts organisations from across Birmingham (Image: Be Festival / 144)

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If you are unable to view the Be Festival promotion video trailer above, you can watch it here.

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Be At One Cocktail Bar will be opening its first Birmingham venue, the 31st in the country

A new cocktail bar is to be unveiled in Birmingham, making its debut in the city after already opening 30 outlets across the country.

Be At One Cocktail Bar will make launch in Birmingham on May 12, when it opens its doors to cocktail-lovers in the Piccadilly Arcade.

The franchise began in 1998 by three bartenders; Steve Locke, Rhys Oldfield and Leigh Miller. The founders opened the first Be At One in Battersea Rise in May 1998 and since then have opened a further 30 bars, making the new Birmingham drinks venue their 31st site, and the 12th site outside of London.

Co-founder Steve Locke said: “We are very much focused on providing a world class guest experience, which we deliver through our bartenders, in-house training and an extensive range of cocktails.

The cocktail bar’s arrival has created 18 new jobs in the city and the team is all home-grown talents

Be At One began in 1998 by three bartenders; Steve Locke, Rhys Oldfield and Leigh Miller.

“Be At One is a cocktail institution, providing great service and unbeatable party atmosphere, and most importantly with a pretention free attitude. Birmingham is a major step for us, the city has a thriving cocktail scene and one we are very excited about joining”.

The cocktail bar’s arrival has created 18 new jobs in the city and the team is all home-grown talents hired for their party-loving personalities and passion for their hometown. Each bartender will undergo the industry-renowned Be At One intensive bar training, which focuses on high-quality bartending, knowledge and skills.

The team behind Be At One claims to have one of the largest cocktail lists in the industry, from the blended specialties such as the sweet and salty popcorn topped Popster, the new virtuous additions such as the superfood-packed Beetroot Retox and the reimagined classics such as the Gin Re-Fashioned.

Birmingham guests will also be able to take advantage of the group’s award-winning smartphone app with a personalised Appi Hour

Birmingham guests will also be able to take advantage of the group’s award-winning smartphone app with a personalised Appi Hour, as well as a randomly generated cocktail for £5, available everyday through the Be Appventurous feature.

Additionally, private cocktail masterclasses hosted by fully-trained bartenders will be available to book year-round, where guests can learn how to mix up some classic cocktails through a variety of games, races and good old-fashioned shake offs.

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Be At One Birmingham opens in the Piccadilly Arcade on Thursday 12th May, 2016.

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The Library of Birmingham lights up orange to mark and celebrate the Sikh festival of Vaisakhi (Photograph: Rangzeb Hussain)

The Library of Birmingham is currently lit up in bright orange to celebrate the festival of Vaisakhi, in solidarity with the city’s Sikh community.

As Sikhs across the country and across the world celebrate the festival of harvest and the Punjabi New Year, the city’s prestigious landmark is paying tribute to the West Midland’s large Sikh population.

Vaisakhi – also known as Baisakhi – refers to the harvest festival of the Punjab region, the Punjabi new year falling on the first day of Vaisakh which is the first solar month of the Punjabi calendar, Khalsa Sirjana Divas which marks the birth of the Khalsa in the year 1699 and the Mesha Sankranti festival.

Mohinderpal Singh Bal, originally from London, brought his daughter to see the library lit up for the festival to illustrate how the city embraces diversity.

“As I was growing up in Southall, one of the calendar events that I always looked forward to was Vaisakhi. There was an air of excitement and anticipation running up to the events, a time to meet family and finding out which friends were attending the Nagar Kirtan,” he explains.

“As I got older I became more aware of the religious aspects of Vasiakhi and this strengthened my beliefs in Sikhi. My wish is that my children can experience the joy of community spirits and having the freedom to enjoy and embrace their religion in the UK.

“I bought my youngest daughter to the Library to show her how the wider Birmingham community has embraced Vasiakhi which is important for me to help build her capabilities. As we walked around the library we spoke about the orange colour and structure of the building and peered through the glass to see a 20ft structure of a lady made from straw. We also reminisced about my daughter’s first trip to the library. It was a lovely experience a nice way to end our evening.”

Later this month, the Council of Sikh Gurdwaras in Birmingham will be hosting special Vaisakhi celebrations in Handsworth Park, on Sunday 24th April.

This event is free to all members of the community and will include Sikh cultural activities, children’s inflatable play area, arts and crafts exhibitions and sports and entertainment on the bandstand stage.

There will be a Langar area (marquee in which free food is served) which is an important part of the Sikh faith with food being prepared by the various Gurdwaras (places of worship) from across Birmingham and the Black Country. There will be an area for worship (Darbar) which will be an important focal point, this will be open to all communities to visit and understand the Sikh faith.

Mohinderpal Singh Bal and his daughter share Vaiksakhi greetings outside the Library of Birmingham (Photograph: Rangzeb Hussain)

>> GALLERY: Library of Birmingham lights up for Vaisakhi 2016 <<

As well as the celebrations in Handsworth Park there will be two processions, one starting at 10.00am from the Baba Sang Gurdwara in Sandwell, travelling along High Street, Toll House Way, Rabone Lane, Booth Street, Soho Road, Rookery Road, Oxhil Road, Grove Lane and ending in Handsworth Park.

The second procession will start from the Ramgarhia Sikh Temple (Gurdwara) in the Birmingham Jewellery Quarter, Graham Street, Hockley at 10.00am travelling along Vyse Street, Hockley Flyover, Soho Hill, Soho Road, Grove Lane and meeting in Handsworth Park.

At the head of each procession is the Guru Granth Sahib (The Holy Book of Revelation) led by five Sikhs dressed in ceremonial costume to represent the five original Panj Pyare (The Beloved Ones) who founded the order of the Khalsa as we know it today.

The Council of Sikh Gurdwaras in Birmingham will be hosting special Vaisakhi celebrations in Handsworth Park, on Sunday 24th April

The event will run from 11.00am – 6.30pm. The processions are due to arrive in the park at approximately 12.00noon (Jewellery Quarter) and 1.00pm (Sandwell). Car Parking will be provided at Handsworth Park via Hinstock Road for Disabled Badge Holders.

There will be an exclusion zone in operation around Handsworth Park and rolling road closures along the procession routes, roads will be closed approximately 1 hour before the start of the procession and will re-open once the procession has safely passed through and the roads are clear.

The event is alcohol free and no smoking, and visitors are not allowed to bring dogs into the festival area except for guide dogs.

The West Midlands region has one of the country’s largest Sikh communities

The Vaisakhi celebration is organised by the Council of Sikh Gurdwaras in Birmingham with support from Birmingham City Council and other sponsors.

According to the 2011 Census, there were around 400,000 Sikhs and in excess of 350 gurudwaras in England with the largest communities in London, Bedford, Coventry, Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Bradford, Leeds, Warwick, Derby, Nottingham, Bristol and Huddersfield

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Lydia Scarlett is a singer songwriter, a story teller and – before all else – a performer (Photograph: Vimal Korpal)

Today’s featured Midlands artist on the Vimal & Zoe Radio Show, on Ambur Radio, was Lydia Scarlett, a singer song writer and definitely an amazing performer. At the age of 20 she has just completed her debut album Just Lydia.

It does exactly as it says on the tin – It’s just Lydia – she does the singing, the music, the percussion, the producing, the marketing.

Lydia Scarlett is a singer songwriter, a story teller and before all else a performer. This wonderfully quirky songstress will continue to surprise you with her unusual and dynamic creations. Whether it be alternative folk to 60’s inspired pop, soft country to spoken word; Lydia touches upon an eclectic range of genres, the only constant being a heartfelt and emotive voice.

On our show, she performed a live and wonderful mesmerising rendition of Common People by Pulp (watch and listen below), a track from her debut album More to Say. She also performed a combination of two tracks Hit the Road Jack and Feeling Good, which left us in absolute awe. To show her versatility, she even threw in a bit of spoken-word in the way of Left Brain.

At only the age of 20, this young lady has bags of talent and – with a bit of luck – has  a very, very bright future ahead.

You can listen back to the whole Vimal & Zoe Radio Show below:

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Lydia performing her version of Common People:

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Lydia performs More to Say, a track from her album ‘Just Lydia’:

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Here’s Lydia’s spoken-word piece, Left Brain:

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More from West Midlands based international station Ambur Radio 103.6 FM here.

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The Birmingham Gay Symphony Orchestra performing at Adrian Boult Hall last year (Photograph: Tom White)

The Birmingham Gay Symphony Orchestra is to perform a special concert of popular classics in its final show at Birmingham Conservatoire’s Adrian Boult Hall, before the building is demolished.

Following its successful Pride Proms and BGSO at the Movies concerts in 2015, Birmingham Gay Symphony Orchestra takes to the stage of Birmingham Conservatoire’s Adrian Boult Hall for the final time, for an afternoon of well known classical music in their Hall of Fame concert.

Organisers of the concert are hoping to entertain and surprise audiences with the one-off show.

“There’s loads of really famous music that was written by some of the greatest composers. We all know the music off the iconic Hovis advert and the theme tune from The Apprentice – but did you know that the Hovis theme is from Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9 and that The Apprentice is ‘Montagues and Capulets’ from Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet?”

BGSO’s concert on 12th June picks out some of the best-known pieces of classical music for an afternoon concert at the Birmingham Conservatoire’s Adrian Boult Hall.

The concert will also see BGSO Leader Kat Galbraith perform the haunting ‘Danse Macabre’ violin solo by Saint-Saëns – aka the theme to Jonathan Creek (Photograph: Tom White)

The concert will also see BGSO Leader Kat Galbraith perform the haunting ‘Danse Macabre’ violin solo by Saint-Saëns – aka the theme to Jonathan Creek – and BGSO Principal Clarinet Philip Mills perform the spinetintlingly poetic slow movement from Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto.

This is the final concert that BGSO will perform at Birmingham Conservatoire’s Adrian Boult Hall, before it is demolished as part of the Paradise redevelopment.

Jack Lovell is the Birmingham Gay Symphony Orchestra’s (BGSO) Music Director

Jack Lovell, BGSO Music Director said, “We are surrounded by amazing music all the time so for this concert we thought we would pick some of our favourites. From Morning by Grieg to Copland’s epic Hoedown there’s tonnes of pieces that you’ll recognise but might not know that they’ve been around for hundreds of years!”

“Danse Macabre is an awesome piece of music – spooky and thrilling (it’s all about a dance with death!), I cannot wait to start wrapping my fingers around it,” added BGSO Leader Kat Galbraith.

The Birmingham Gay Symphony Orchestra’s Philip Mills on the Clarinet (Photograph: Tom White)

Philip Mills, BGSO Principal Clarinet explained, “Mozart was a total genius and his Clarinet Concerto is one of the most beautiful pieces he ever wrote. It’s one of those pieces you just put on and all the stresses of the world disappear.”

For those who’ve never been to a concert before, BGSO concerts aren’t what you might expect. BGSO is a community orchestra that describes its community spirit as “infectious”, adding “classical music doesn’t always have to be fusty and boring!”

Now in its eighth season, and one of only two LGBT+ orchestras in the UK, BGSO is going from strength to strength. Alongside its seasonal concerts, BGSO regularly performs outside the concert hall, and recent performances include LFEST 2015 and the World AIDS Day celebration at Birmingham Cathedral. BGSO is also always looking for new members and welcomes everyone – whether they define as LGBT or not. To find out more about joining visit BGSO.org.uk.

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Early bird tickets for BGSO Hall of Fame are just £10/£8 for adults online at BGSO.org.uk (£12/£8 on the door). Families are welcome and there is a special Family ticket for just £30 (up to 2 adults and 3 children under 16). Student tickets are £5.

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Najité Phoenix is a spoken word artist and writer who recently moved to London from Birmingham (Photograph: Najité Phoenix)

A local spoken word artist has penned and performed a powerful piece, exploring empowerment, feminism and identity.

Touching on “the apparently abandoned side of female empowerment that goes beyond our physical assets and taps into our inner magic,” Najité Phoenix shares her piece to camera for audiences of her new YouTube channel.

Entitled ‘The Granddaughters of The Witches That They Didn’t Burn‘, after a famous and popular but unattributed quote, the 24-year-old Leicester native – currently living in Birmingham – felt she wanted to express herself beyond the common clichéd stereotypes and objectification of women.

“When I saw the quote ‘We are the granddaughters of the witches that they weren’t able to burn’, I thought that it might be a pretty good place to start.

“I really just wanted to contribute to ‘women’s empowerment’ in a way that moved beyond the popular, but limiting narratives of sexual agency and physical assets. Women are so much more than that!”

Najité Phoenix named the spoken word piece ‘The Granddaughters of The Witches That They Didn’t Burn’, after a famous but unattributed quote (Photograph: Najité Phoenix)

Although an established poet, spoken word artist, Huffington Post UK columnist and writer, Phoenix has recently taken her hand to vlogging, sharing her work online and via social media platforms.

“YouTube is relatively new. Ive posted stuff once or twice before but never had the confidence to commit to posting consistently. And now I feel like I’m going through a major healing process where I’m no so scared of embracing my own self expression and not so trapped in the prison of negative mental narratives!”

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The Granddaughters of The Witches That They Didn’t Burn

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We are the granddaughters of the witches that they weren’t able to burn
So I think it’s time that we remember
that you could never sever our connection to the cycles of the moon and the earth
See a lot of us, don’t do the whole ‘church’ thing
But we know the power of the word
And in all honesty we’re just not that interested in shit – if it’s not our souls that it’s serves

Our mission was never ever to compete with men
It was to reconnect with our feminine depth
Connecting with intuition, feelings and dreams
and not just about exposing our breasts
We are the soldiers
that turn our wounds into wombs
and birth new life through that pain

We are not afraid
of exploring these foreign terrains
that western science
Still struggles to explain

We were never built
to serve these well placed commercial, external ideals
That are simply designed to distract us from our inner light
We are the artists, the mothers, the poets
So I know it’s
no coincidence that spells are often written as rhymes

We’ve never, ever feared the dark
And we’re not about to start
Cause that yin energy is part of our hearts
We’re more than simply bitches that bleed
And women that scream
If they are the fire, then we are the spark
that starts
…Life

We stand with the same balance of strength and grace
As the deepest seas and the tallest trees
We are aware of this bottomless source of sacred energy
of which these men seek
So we don’t throw off our clothes for money or fame
We throw clothes to feel closer to nature
See, the energy received from these trees means – a lot more to us than the paper

But we don’t put down, we stand upright
Destined to emit our light
Designed to contribute to the upward rise of human kind
during this evolutionary hike.

We are not trapped in the murky prisons of our minds.
We feel a connection that collectively unites and binds

So I am the woman
praying for the restraint to not allow my emotions to consume me
And praying for the day they’ll be honed
and able
to carry out their earthly duties
I am the woman who houses magic
And the woman who doesn’t yet know

We are conduits of universal intent
but we’ve been programmed to stand in the way of its flow
Trying to shape our destiny and fate
With these fake decks that have been laid
Before us to create
a paradox that serves to do nothing but betray
The knowledge we have foraged before we even landed on this plane

So I am the woman trying to remember
And pick up where she left
Learning what it means to lose attachment to this life
before our physical death

I am the woman who houses love.
And channels that stuff we perceive as being from above.
So I see that woman in you
That woman in me
That woman who lives in we

& We
are the granddaughters
of the witches
that they didn’t get to burn.
& It’s time we remember
That they could never ever sever our connection
to the cycles of the moon and the earth.

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Discover more of Najité Phoenix on her YouTube channel, here. You can also find her on Twitter.

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Musical icon Prince has died at home, at the age of 57 (Photograph: Kevin Doody)

Music icon Prince has died at his home in Minnesota at the age of 57. Police attended a medical emergency at his Paisley Park estate earlier today, according to reports. 

A spokeswoman for the musician said, “It is with profound sadness that I am confirming that the legendary, iconic performer, Prince Rogers Nelson, has died. There are no further details as to the cause of death at this time.”

Prince became a household name and global superstar in the 1980s, with albums such as 1999, Purple Rain and Sign O’ the Times. His musical career embraced genres including rock, funk, and jazz, as he sold over 100 million records.

Born in 1958, the singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist recorded more than 30 albums. His best known hits include When Doves Cry and Let’s Go Crazy, as well as hits for other artists including Sinead O’Connor, whose version of his track Nothing Compares 2U became a worldwide success in 1990.

Music legend Prince performing at Birmingham’s former LG Arena in May 2014 (Photograph: Kevin Doody)

He won an Oscar for the score to Purple Rain in 1984, a film he also appeared in. He later changed his name to an unpronounceable symbol and was popularly referred to as “The Artist formerly known as Prince”, cementing his credentials as an eccentric and somewhat mysterious artist. Prince went on to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004.

Prince briefly changed his name to an unpronounceable symbol and was popularly referred to as “The Artist formerly known as Prince”

Last week, on April 15th, he was taken to hospital hours after performing on stage, but was soon released and reassured fans he was feeling much better while taking rest at home. His publicist confirmed Prince had died earlier today, Thursday 21st April, at the age of 57. He would have been 58 on June 7.

Tributes have been pouring in on social media and fans have been gathering at Paisley Park.

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Prince in Birmingham

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Prince’s last performance in Birmingham was at the former LG Arena (now Genting Arena) in 2014, where he launched his first UK tour in nearly 20 years. He was joined on stage by support band 3rd Eye Girl for Hit and Run Part II.

Music legend Prince performing at Birmingham’s former LG Arena in May 2014 (Photograph: Kevin Doody)

Prince super-fan Kevin Doody, 37, was at the live show. Formerly a bar manager in Birmingham, Kevin had moved to London but travelled back especially for the chance to see his musical hero on Thursday 15th May, 2014.

“I was lucky enough to see prince twice. The first time during the 21 nights show at the O2 in London and the second when he came to Birmingham,” he told I Am Birmingham.

The initial Birmingham date to see Prince sold out almost immediately, so another was added for Monday 19th May 2014, due to high demand.

During the show, Kevin managed to capture several pictures of the musical superstar on his smartphone, including this iconic photograph, which has since been used across the world by the artist himself.

Prince super fan Kevin Doody captured this picture of his music hero at the LG Arena in Birmingham on May 15, 2014 (Photograph: Kevin Doody)

>> READ OUR REVIEW OF PRINCE IN BIRMINGHAM IN MAY 2014 <<

“The Birmingham show was standing so myself and my friend John ‘pushed’ our way to the front. The photo was more luck than anything I guess. It was one of those spur of the moment snaps that happened to turn out amazingly.

“It was taken on an iPhone 5 after quite a few drinks, and then to have that photo circulated around the world and read such lovely comments from fans about it was a beautiful thing.

“Then on top of that to have Prince’s manager call me and offer to purchase the photo as Prince loved it was truly bizarre!

“There’s very few people who have had such an positive effect on my life, and with the recent passing of Bowie and now, sadly, Prince. I honesty don’t feel that I’ll witness anyone close to how they’ve made and continue to make me feel in my lifetime.

“I still get goosebumps when I listen. Today I feel I’ve lost a piece of me, as strange as that sounds. But imagine the party in the sky tonight! Peace and love my friend.”

Prince super-fan Kevin Doody saw the artist live twice, and captured an iconic photo of the star in Birmingham (Photograph: Kevin Doody)

In December 2015, Prince was due to perform at the Birmingham Symphony Hall but cancelled the gig last only a month before in November, following the Paris terror attacks. The Prince Piano & A Microphone shows had originally been scheduled for Tuesday 1st December.

Prince also came to the city’s NEC venue in June 1990, as part of The Nude Tour, and to the Birmingham National Indoor Arena (NIA) in July 1993 for his Act II Tour. He returned to England’s second city in March 1995, for his Ultimate Live Experience Tour at the NEC.

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The world reacts

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Madonna wrote on her Instagram, “He changed the World!! A true visionary. What a loss. I’m devastated. This is not a love song.” (Photograph: Madonna/Instagram)

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“He changed the World!! A true visionary. What a loss. I’m devastated. This is not a love song.” – Madonna

“Tears and love on our tour bus” – Nile Rogers

“And just like that…the world lost a lot of magic. Rest in peace Prince! Thanks for giving us so much.” – Katy Perry

“I Miss My Brother. Prince Was A Funny Cat. Great Sense Of Humour.” – Spike Lee

“Numb. Stunned. This can’t be real,” – Justin Timberlake

“Today is the worst day ever. Prince R.I.P I am crying!” – Boy George

“R. I. P to the King Prince thank u for inspiring me to be a Musician First and using this tool to heal people.” – Wyclef Jean

“It’s such a blow. It’s really surreal. It’s just kind of unbelievable. He was definitely an original and a one of a kind. Truly there was only one Prince.”” – Aretha Franklin

“I LOVED him, the world LOVED him. Now he’s at peace with his Father. Rest in power, Prince, my brother.” – Chaka Khan

“Now Prince? No no no.. RIP You genius x” – Robbie Williams

“Oh my god I can’t believe that Prince has died…he was a great, great talent.” – Billy Idol

Music legend Prince performing at Birmingham’s former LG Arena in May 2014 (Photograph: Kevin Doody)

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Prince’s Twitter avatar, in which he has both eyes closed and a third eye wide open, has become an instant social media tribute to the late star (Image: Prince/Twitter)

The Birmingham Mela returns to Cannon Hill Park in July (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

Birmingham’s annual festival celebrating the best in south Asian culture has been officially launched in the city, in preparation for the Big John’s Eid Mela, an outdoor family event taking place in July.

Unveiling this year’s plans at the Tipu Sultan restaurant in Moseley on Wednesday evening, organisers of the summer event hosted a special showcase, which was attended by dignitaries from across the region including a special guest appearance from comedian Mani Liaqat.

Also joining in on the action was popular Elvis impersonator Muj Presley, known locally as the ‘Asian Elvis’.

Elvis impersonator Muj Presley, known locally as the ‘Asian Elvis’, attended the special Birmingham Mela launch event (Photograph: Birmingham Mela)

Amongst the guests in attendance were many of the city’s Labour councillors including Basharat Dad (Stechford & Yardley North), Waseem Zaffar (Lozells & Handsworth East), Mohammed Aikhlaq (Lab, Bordesley Green), Mohammed Idrees (Washwood Heath), Mariam Khan (Washwood Heath).

Joining them – alongside a myriad of the city’s community, business and media representatives – was Joan Durose, Birmingham City Council’s Head of Events.

Guests at the Birmingham Mela launch included local councillors, community representatives and business leaders (Photograph: Birmingham Mela)

Guests at the launch event for the Birmingham Mela included The Asian Today’s Anita Chumber, Mohammed Ali of Mango Delivery Ltd. and entrepreneur Habib Rehman (Photograph: Birmingham Mela)

Families and visitors enjoying the Birmingham Mela in Cannon Hill Park (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

The Mela, which is being held in just under 100 days, has wide-reaching support and is one of the very few events taking place with limited council support this year, due to budget cuts.

Chair of the Mela’s steering committee, Cllr Mariam Khan, praised the city council’s events team on all of their “hard work”, and also commended business sponsor Big John’s for “stepping in and taking over the organisation and management of the event, without any funding”.

A family enjoying the Birmingham Mela in Cannon Hill Park (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

Henna painting at a previous Birmingham Mela event (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

Family and friends at the Birmingham Mela event (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

>> GALLERY: The Birmingham Mela 2014 in Cannon Hill Park <<

Now in its 16th year, the Birmingham Mela is a free family event that aims to celebrate the diverse culture of Birmingham, with a focus on of south-Asian food, culture and sport.

Attended by over 60,000 people last year, the one-day festival will host a main entertainment stage, a food court, bazaar, sports arena and funfair.

Children with face paint enjoying the Birmingham Mela (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

Big John’s are sponsoring the Birmingham Mela, including the main stage acts (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

Revellers enjoying the sunshine at the Birmingham Mela (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

Community poet Shabraz Ahmed chats to a local police officer at the Birmingham Mela (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

Kasim Choudhry, director of the city’s main Mela festivities, feels the event benefits the city and its residents, highlighting the celebration of Birmingham’s diversity and promoting community cohesion as a key factor.

“The Mela is in its 16th year and is a great day out for the family,” he told I Am Birmingham.

“Year on year, we have seen the numbers increase and will be expecting a huge turnout. This year, we intend to promote the event to a more diverse audience, giving everyone the opportunity to experience all the great things Birmingham has on offer.”

Big John’s are sponsoring the Birmingham Mela and will be hosting a catering stand at the event (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

Slides and amusement rides at a previous Birmingham Mela event (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

The Birmingham Mela hosts outdoor games and activities (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

Expect cake stalls and numerous food stands at the Birmingham Mela in July (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

Recently speaking about his experiences of the Birmingham Mela, popular Bhangra singer Malkit Singh MBE told BBC Radio WM: “It is like India and Pakistan have become one again. There are people of all colours and creeds celebrating together. I have never seen an event like this before”.

Awarded ‘Best Event 2015’ at the Pakistani Music and Media Awards (PMMA) and runner-up at the Brummies Choice Awards, this year’s Birmingham Mela is supported and sponsored by The Asian Today, BBC Asian Network, Pepsi, Saka Water and Argeela; while raising funds for its chosen charity, the Anzal Begum Foundation.

The Big John’s Birmingham Mela 2016 takes place on Sunday 31st July

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The Birmingham Mela 2016 takes place on Sunday 31st July at Cannon Hill Park. For more information, visit www.bigjohnsbirminghammela.com.

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Kirenjit Kaur Dharni from Kings Heath, performing with her sitar, on the Vimal and Zoe Radio Show (Photograph: Vimal Korpal)

Today’s featured Midlands artist on the Vimal & Zoe Radio Show, on Ambur Radio, was Kirenjit Kaur Dharni from Kings Heath – a sitar player, yes a sitar, not a guitar!

Kirenjit joined the V&Z radio show and gives an insight into how long she has played the sitar and talked about some of her influences: George Harrison, Ustad Vilayet Khan and Hidyat Khan; and how people approach her and enquire about the sub-continental musical instrument.

Kirenjit discussed about the romanticism of the sitar and while she strung its rhythmic melody, she took the listener (and us) on a special journey.

As an artist, she views herself not as a purist but someone who experiments more and having fun with the instrument. She is also looking for further collaboration with artists from different backgrounds.

The Vimal and Zoe Radio Show airs on Ambur Radio every Thursday (Photograph Vimal Korpal)

Watch her play a couple of tracks on our show:

Raag Khamaj

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Raag Kafi

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As it’s Shakespeare’s 400th birthday tomorrow, she also improvised with Zoe and myself and performed some Shakespeare’s sonnets , utilising her unique style. You can listen back to our full show below.

You can find Kirenjit online, via Instagram and on Twitter.

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Listen to the Vimal & Zoe Show in full:

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If you’d like to be on the Vimal & Zoe Show, on Ambur Radio, please contact us on Facebook and/or Twitter.

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More from West Midlands based international station Ambur Radio 103.6 FM here.

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Singer-songwriter NAO performing at the O2 Institute in Birmingham (Photograph: Aliyah Hasinah)

Londoner NAO and Atlanta-born Demo Taped brought large doses of electro-R’n’B and Neo-soul to the O2 Institute in Digbeth on Wednesday.

The sold-out gig took place at the venue’s Institute3, attracting an eclectic audience. However, due to the gig selling out earlier than expected due to excess demand, many felt the show could have quite easily sold-out a bigger hall within the venue.

The show put on by NAO was phenomenal, and with the support of 18-year-old Demo Taped – straight from Atlanta, Georgia – a vast array of technical and vocal ability was exhibited throughout the night.

US musician Demo Taped performing in Birmingham at the O2 Institute (Photograph: Aliyah Hasinah)

Demo Taped casually walked onto the stage at 8pm, laptop and mixing desk at-the-ready and bellowed: “What’s up Birmingham?” The already packed venue whooping with excitement at the sound of his American accent breaking the silence of the patiently waiting crowd.

With that, he started mixing and singing a repertoire of new sounds produced and created right before us all, also showing off his impressive vocal range. Demo Taped’s exhilarating showmanship concluded with one of his latest tunes Game On, the video of which only dropped a couple days back.

Game On‘s a tune tackling the feeling of depression and anxiety, something Demo Taped said he deals with frequently. It left the whole crowd vibesing to the pulse of the beat and incredibly catchy chorus. We’re excited to see more from Atlantan gem and hope he keeps catching us with innovative beats and meaningful lyrics. Check out his latest video here:

Demo Taped, having sufficiently hyped the crowd, gave way to NAO following a brief break to rearrange the stage. A personal pee-break and quick debate on how her name is pronounced (conclusion: like mayo with an ‘N’) later, and the crowd was ready for the party NAO was about to bring.

Entering the stage dancing to the drop of the beat and to hollering from every corner of the room, NAO went straight in to show off her lengthy vocal range. Performance of her second song Inhale Exhale really got the place moving and grooving.

Throughout her set, the crowd was taken through all manner of emotions, from hip-swinging R’n’B tracks with a difference to slow songs that had people swaying and miming the words with their eyes closed. She also spoke on how grateful she was to be in Birmingham and that she didn’t realise so many people in Brumtown listened to her music, let alone knew all the words as they passionately sang along.

And that’s exactly what happened throughout the night, even when NAO introduced a new song Girlfriend from her upcoming album, parts of the crowd attempted to sing-along to that too.

Aliyah Hasinah (left) with music artist NAO (centre), and friend (Photograph: Aliyah Hasinah)

Following an encore, the London girl with a huge incomparable voice ended her set on a high with one of her newly released songs Bad Blood, and if the singing along and dancing hadn’t already been full-on throughout the gig; at this point the room was moving and shaking to every word, beat-drop and falsetto moment.

After a quick change, NAO came to meet and greet fans by her merch’ stall. She also told us that the concept behind her latest video Bad Blood encompassed the persona of “Mother Nature” on the borderline of being beautiful and dark. Photos and a glitter exchange later, we made our way out of the venue on gas level 100, we can’t wait for her to come back to Brum.

NAO and Demo Taped are definitely ones to catch live! Overall rating definitely five stars!

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Here’s what Twitter and Instagram had to say about NAO and Demo Taped  in Birmingham:

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The @thisNAO concert in Birmingham tonight literally gave me life

— marshmallow (@Azelia_Rose) April 20, 2016

Saw @thisNAO at Birmingham tonight. Wonderful.

— James Ramsay (@mrjamesramsay) April 20, 2016

I rated @nao at O2 Institute 3 Birmingham ★★★★★ via Bandsintown https://t.co/tqWVyP6weZ

— Emefa (@nyonuvi) April 21, 2016

Me and @recklessdj_ went to see @this_nao yesterday and got a chance to chat to her a little bit. She’s such a sweet person ❤️

A photo posted by ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀Kimberley (@kimmyslicebomb) on Apr 21, 2016 at 3:44am PDT

thank you for your energy and vibes you beautiful musical beings ❤

A photo posted by Madi Saskia 🙇🏽 (@madisaskiamusic) on Apr 20, 2016 at 3:27pm PDT

@thisNAO @demotaped thx 4 ur energy 2nite, been a long few last months n that show has made me genuinely smile for the first time in 4eva 😘

— Madi Saskia (@maddiethespider) April 20, 2016

@this_nao had us feeling all sorts tonight. Her outfit was stunning, vocals beyond on point and dancing everything I imagine I look like in my bedroom (aka Destiny Child reboot). She’s an amazing human. Enjoy the glitter and come back to Birmingham soon #Nao #o2institute #livemusic

A photo posted by aliyah hasinah (@coconutoilcapone) on Apr 20, 2016 at 3:55pm PDT

@thisNAO @demotaped yesterday night @O2InstituteBham brilliant gig #Electronica #Soul #artisttowatch #brum #music pic.twitter.com/pdlS3vNlZD

— Oluwatoyin (@Vintage_Misfits) April 21, 2016

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To listen to more of NAO and Demo Taped follow them on Soundcloud!

NAO’s latest track Bad Blood:

Demo Taped’s Game On:

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Aliyah Hasinah

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Todays featured Midlands artist on the Vimal & Zoe radio show, on Ambur radio, were Kiriki Club. 

With their catchy upbeat tunes, sweet harmonies, bouncing beats  they produce a style of music which is swing and bubblegum pop. A style of music where swing is king.

Kiriki Club are fronted by Sam Fox, yes Sam Fox. Before you burst out into ‘Touch me, Touch me let me feel your body’ NOOOOO! Not that Sam Fox but Sam Frankie Fox who is the lead singer of Kiriki Club not only has a smooth, soft, luscious, silky voice but is also well renowned for her acting   around the country. Martin Cox slaps the double bass, with Ricardo Rocha strumming sweet nectar from the guitar whilst Katie Stevens on the flute and clarinet is just mesmerising and awakens the dreamy world within you.

Kiriki Club performed several tracks live including Chew Chew Pie, Appetitie, A Good Man Is Hard to find as well as covers of Why Dont You Do Right (Peggy Lee) and Sweet Dreams (Eurythmics).

These guys ooze style, class and deliver a great live performance, catch them live at a venue near you or alternatively book them for your corporate, wedding, birthday or bar mitzvah event.

Kiriki club with cover of ‘Why Don’t You Do Right’

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Kiriki Club with ‘Chew Chew Pie’

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They will be busking outside the Swingamajig festival this weekend in Digbeth, so if you get a chance go and see them.

Its definitely worthwhile touching base with this band Kiriki Club.

Kiriki club on the Vimal & Zoe radio show

Contacts

http://www.kirikiclub.com

kirikiclub@gmail.com

Listen to the full show below

Swingamajig is the UK’s first one-day urban festival dedicated to Electro Swing, Gypsy Folk, and vintage mayhem (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing, and boy has Swingamajig got it. Fast becoming the UK’s most unique and most joyous festival, Swingamajig is back bigger, better and barmier than ever before.

Swingamajig is the UK’s first one-day urban festival dedicated to Electro Swing, Gypsy Folk, and vintage mayhem. Nowhere else offers such a harmonious culture clash of vintage and urban delights.

Swingamajig brings together the best in vintage inspired culture that Europe has to offer (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

It mixes the decadence of 1920s glamour with the urban set beneath the giant railway arches of Digbeth’s Rainbow venues complex. There are ten different spaces to choose from, some outside some in, including a circus big top and shelter beneath the arches, there are a plethora of exciting spaces to explore throughout the festival.

It truly is a show like no other, with its 10 spaces showcasing everything from international touring bands and DJs, to swing dance classes, circus tricks, magic, rockabilly, walkabout and more. Swingamajig brings together the best in vintage inspired culture that Europe has to offer.

Anything goes attire-wise at Swingamajig, but a retro vintage twist is recommended (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

Swingamajig isn’t just about the music, it’s the atmosphere and the hustle and bustle (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

Revellers enjoying the Swingamajig Festival in Birmingham last year (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

The eclectic line up covers everything from electronic beats, to Balkan folk, gypsy punk, big band swing, world, global beats and rockabilly/rock n roll, there really is something for everyone. Headlining are festival heavyweights Balkan Beat Box, pioneers of their genre, and they will be joined by two Birmingham bands who have enjoyed international success and fantastic shows at Glastonbury festival, Electric Swing Circus and the Destroyers.

Live performances feature at Swingamajig in Birmingham (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

Journalist Courtney Nettleford attends the Swingamajig Festival in Birmingham (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

Burlesque performance artists at Birmingham’s Swingamajig Festival last year (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

Swingamajig isn’t just about the music though, it’s the atmosphere, the hustle and bustle, the fabulous selection of street food, craft beers, cocktails, intricate and interesting decor, theming and projection mapping, walkabout performances, hidden games, activities and secret performances, Swingamajig is a truly immersive experience, like wandering in through the rabbit hole or the wardrobe doors into another world.

Tom Hyland is the founder of Swingamajig, the UK’s largest one-day retro vintage swing festival (Photograph: Adam Yosef)

What really makes Swingamajig that extra bit special is the people, a real mix with new 18-year-olds dancing arm in arm with people well into their 60s and beyond, all dressed up in vintage clothes, the atmosphere is both friendly and electric. With 5,000 revellers expected this year, this is going to be one hell of a party.

Swingamajig is set to be the most exciting vintage inspired day out you could possibly imagine.

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Swingamajig takes place on Bank Holiday Sunday 1st May between 2pm-6am atThe Rainbow Venues in Digbeth.

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Today’s featured Midlands artists on theVimal & Zoe Radio Show, on Ambur Radio, was the director Lalit Bhusal and singer Stacey Lynn Crowe,

Lalit Bhusal talked about his new project the Film Crushed Wings – which deals with the sensitive subjects of  FGM (female genital mutilation) and domestic abuse. He explains how the project came about, why he chose the subject FGM and how it is still an issue in countries like India, Pakistan, Indonesia and Malaysia. Through awareness he hopes to educate and make change in this cultural practice.

Oznur Cifi the lead actress reveals how she  auditioned online to get her role in the film Crushed Wings.

Part of  the film will be  shot in Nepal and  parts of the Midlands.

Interview On Vimal & Zoe Radio show

Stacey Lynn Crowe a singer from Burton talked about her music and acting and where she will be performing in the coming months

Staceys wonderful cover version of A Wonderful World

Her new song Sentimental Honey available on Itunes

Vimal & Zoe (V&Z Radio show)  in Full

If you are in the arts – singer, band, actor, director, poet or have a talent & would like to be on the Vimal & Zoe radio show contact us via twitter.

Entertainer Russell Brand helps officially launch the new Shoots for Recovery centre in Yardley, Birmingham (Photograph: Jess Phillips)

Comedian, actor and activist Russell Brand today opened a new drugs recovery centre in the Digbeth area of Birmingham.

The 40-year-old entertainer, who is an ardent substance abuse rehabilitation campaigner, spoke to attendees at the newly-opened Recovery Central centre in Digbeth, before officially launching the project.

The new £1m centre aims to help people recovering from drugs and alcohol addiction rebuild their lives and is one of the largest venues of its kind ever built in the UK, providing a one-stop shop for the recovery community, including a new café and restaurant, the city’s first dry bar, a business incubation space and a multi-purpose conference centre.

Through the social enterprise work at Recovery Central, individuals on abstinent recovery are given volunteering and training opportunities, work experience and employment for the recovery community and sustainable income through Changes UK.

Congratulations to @changes_uk, on the launch of Recovery Central today. Amazing event and a decent special guest pic.twitter.com/ohVvr59wX0

— Russ Cockburn (@Dwarfio) May 13, 2016

“This is a massive milestone in our nine-year history and will help us deliver our sector leading support to even more people,” explained founder Steven Dixon, who beat a 15-year addiction with alcohol and drugs to establish Changes UK.

“Our service works because it is peer led (by people who have been in similar situations and come through them) and focuses not only on tackling the problems, but also giving individuals support and opportunities once they are in recovery. This has resulted in the vast majority of our clients (78%) staying clean and building new lives, a staggering success rate when you consider the national average is just 8%. It’s all about connection, empowerment and raising aspirations by giving them access to training, volunteering and employment.

Funded by Public Health England, the 50,000 sq. ft centre in Digbeth also houses three social enterprises started by people who have been supported by the charity, a gardening business, building company, a state-of-the-art recording studio and a recovery radio station.

The revenue generated through the different activities will be channelled into the work of the charity, whose aim is to become fully self-financing whilst continuing to support more than 200 people every year to overcome their addictions.

.@rustyrockets turned up to opening of @Changes_UK’s £1m addiction recovery centre in #Birmingham earlier #HeartNews pic.twitter.com/PQf7HwMWWZ

— West Mids News (@HeartWMidsNews) May 13, 2016

One of the local projects working with the new centre is Shoots of Recovery, the brainchild of Birmingham-based entrepreneur and former alcoholic Rhys Morgan. Rhys, who saw a gap in the market for fresh, locally-produced salad leaves, was keen to combine his business idea with a meaningful program of activity to help people recovering from the grip of addiction, homelessness and crime, Shoots of Recovery was born and has since won a ‘Do It’ Award from UnLtd, the UK’s largest support network for social entrepreneurs.

They were joined by was Yardley constituency MP Jess Phillips (Lab) who praised Brand for his support, using the hashtag #EndTheStigma.

Great to see @rustyrockets in Brum substance recovery Centre but it’s my brother who makes proudest #endthestigma pic.twitter.com/SDfl4wlS6z

— Jess Phillips MP (@jessphillips) May 13, 2016

According to the team behind the recovery centre, “Shoots of Recovery is a new social enterprise providing support, training, employment and social integration via food production in Birmingham.

At the opening of Recovery Central with @jessphillips #recoverycentral pic.twitter.com/k49UXxN27m

— Shoots of Recovery (@recoveryshoots) May 13, 2016

“We supply fresh, top-quality salad leaves to local businesses and food-lovers across Birmingham and the West Midlands, at the same time as helping some of the most vulnerable people in our community to rebuild their lives.

Well as it’s @rustyrockets I had to oblige #recoverycentral pic.twitter.com/i1XWcxR2Oh

— Shoots of Recovery (@recoveryshoots) May 13, 2016

Great to see @rustyrockets at @Changes_UK #RecoveryCentral pic.twitter.com/T4K8T5IxrB

— The well (@TheThewell2) May 13, 2016

The Shoots of Recovery centre also hopes to expand their works to other parts of the city.

“We have a piece of land in East Birmingham that we are in the process of developing, and we are working closely with local agencies who can refer vulnerable people into our food growing program.

To turn our vision into a reality, all we need are the funds to purchase equipment so that we can get growing as soon as possible.”

To achieve this, they have launched a crowdfunding campaign.

Our next speaker, Russell Brand! @rustyrockets pic.twitter.com/Sgsr648uB3

— Changes UK (@Changes_UK) May 13, 2016

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You can find out more about Recovery Central and Changes UK here.