The Week in Light & Sound
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Diversity Programme - Improving diversity and protecting local authority funding are at the forefront of UK Theatre’s business plan for the next four years. The plan from the membership organisation, which sets out its objectives for 2017-2021, describes its aim to improve the diversity of theatre and the performing arts as “a significant priority”. The organisation commits to working with Tonic Theatre, Equity and other stakeholders to publish a planning tool for the casting process in order to improve diversity on stage.
It will also establish a ‘board bank’ of professionals from black, Asian and minority ethnic, disabled and low socio-economic backgrounds to assist organisations in addressing the diversity of their boards. Another focus in the business plan is addressing the increase in live-to-digital theatre. The industry body promises to negotiate a standard agreement for digital rights, pay scales and royalty fees, in collaboration with Equity.
Roll Over Beethoven - Tributes have poured in from all quarters for Chuck Berry and his contribution to rock music. Mick Jagger, The Jacksons and Bruce Springsteen were among those to mark the Johnny B. Goode singer's passing.
Sir Mick Jagger: "I am so sad to hear of Chuck Berry's passing. I want to thank him for all the inspirational music he gave to us. He lit up our teenage years, and blew life into our dreams of being musicians and performers. His lyrics shone above others & threw a strange light on the American dream. Chuck you were amazing & your music is engraved inside us forever."
Bruce Springsteen: "Chuck Berry was rock's greatest practitioner, guitarist, and the greatest pure rock 'n' roll writer who ever lived."
The Jacksons: "Chuck Berry merged blues & swing into the phenomenon of early rock 'n' roll. In music, he cast one of the longest shadows. Thank You Chuck."
Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys: "I am so sad to hear about Chuck Berry passing - a big inspiration! He will be missed by everyone who loves Rock 'n Roll. Love & Mercy."
Sir Rod Stewart: "It started with Chuck Berry. The first album I ever bought was Chuck's Live At The Tivoli and I was never the same. He was more than a legend, he was a founding father. You can hear his influence in every rock & roll band from my generation on."
The Doors: "RIP to one of rock 'n' roll's biggest innovators and a huge influence on The Doors, Chuck Berry."
We’ll Meet Again - The white cliffs of Dover celebrated in the 1942 wartime song made famous by Dame Vera Lynn had her image projected onto them to mark her 100th birthday. A 350ft image of Dame Vera, The Forces' Sweetheart, also marks the release of her new album, Vera Lynn 100. The album features new re-orchestrated versions of her music, including The White Cliffs Of Dover, along with her original vocals.
Festival Notes - Ed Sheeran will close this year's Glastonbury Festival, headlining the final night on what will be his only festival appearance this summer.
(Jim Evans)
21 March 2017
