Well, it’s been a busy few months. I told myself at the beginning of the year that I would keep this blog updated regularly, but by the time I’ve finished dealing with day to day life, it’s time to start again!
So, what’s been happening? On the work side of things, I’m busier than ever, and I’m happy to say that that’s a good thing. I’m part of a team producing a brand new show called “The Rise of The Beatles”, which is part band, part theatre and tells the tale of The Beatles, from their years as The Quarrymen to Hamburg, to becoming UK sensations and breaking America. It’s a super cool show, and I’m so happy to be part of the team putting it together. I’ve found friends in new work colleagues – our agent and man on the ground, David Coleman, and our musical director, Alex Gold. I can’t wait for everyone to see the show!
The Stoke-on-Trent classics season kicked off with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra taking to the stage, alongside the magnificent Benjamin Grosvenor on piano. I’ve had to fill some really big shoes and learn on the job, but my role as event coordinator is going really well. I’ve made connections with so many people over the last few months, and everyone has been really helpful. I also welcomed Leon McCawley to Stoke Rep to start our Harding Trust Piano Masters Series. Leon was an absolute pleasure to work with, and I hope he’ll be back to play for us again soon.
I booked my first “big” show. When I say big, I mean that it’s squeaky bum time, and I really need to pull this one off! I can’t see any issues though, as I’m bringing Darrell Smith and The Soul Brothers Syndicate to the Victoria Hall, Hanley. I took the reins when they played the Kings Hall for us this year and wanted to bring them back for 2027. After convincing the powers that be to let me run with this one, we set a date, booked the venue and got it on sale.
And not to forget the original job role – RECORDS! They’re coming from everywhere, and I’m getting them into stock as quickly as I can. Bear with me!
On a personal level, I’ve reconnected with old friends, including some I hadn’t spoken to in years. It’s been great catching up, telling old stories and making new plans. I can’t wait to see what the future holds.
The podcast is still alive and kicking. Even though Kleon and I seem to have no time for anything, we still make time for the show. Video pods are the norm now, and it’s not too often that we have to go audio-only anymore.
My master’s degree is going really well. I feel like I’m getting so much more out of it than I did with my bachelor’s degree. I’ve also connected with a promoter in Brighton who, through my master’s, is helping me out with my personal development. I can’t believe it’s been almost a year since I started.
So, that’s pretty much me. Always busy, always doing something, always planning the next thing. I’ll try and post again before the year is out. I’m not promising though!
Featured Image by Robert Bye on Unsplash
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