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Editors: David O’Coy & Kerry Thomasdave@fusedmagazine.com | @davefusedkerry@fusedmagazine.com | @kerryfusedWriters: Lyle Bignon, Jen Evans, Victoria Mitchell, Kimberley Owen, April Shacklock, Danny Smith, Ross WittenhamFront Cover & Content Image: Nicola Palmerwww.nicolapalmerillustrations.co.uk

DISCLAIMERReproduction of all editorial/images in any form is strictly prohibited without prior permission. We cannot be held responsible for breach of copyright arising from any material supplied. While we aim to make sure all listings are correct we can not be held responsible for any incorrect entries. Readers should check venues before arrival. Views expressed are those of the contributors and not necessarily the publishers. This is a Fused Publication © Fused 2012 © Area Culture Guide 2012.

AREA Culture Guidetel: 0121 442 6663www.areacultureguide.co.ukwww.fusedmagazine.com@areaguide / @fusedmagazineFacebook.com/fusedmagThis guide is a Fused production

ADVERTISINGThe Culture Guide is monthly and Adverts cost just £190 for a page (£95 for a half page). To book call 0121 442 6663 today for early bird offers or email kerry@fusedmagazine.com. Full rates can be found at areacultureguide.co.uk. Our next edition is the FEBRUARY issue. Deadline: 16/01/13

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BEAT STREULI - NEW STREETIkon Gallery Until 3 February

Ikon presents a new exhibition in collaboration with EACC Castellón, exhibiting the work of Swiss artist Beat Streuli. By exhibiting at Ikon in group shows and off-site projects since 2001, Streuli has developed an on-going relationship with the gallery.

The space will house a variety of media displays – photography, video, and digital projections – in the pursuit of creating a modern portrait of urban life. Streuli aspires to reflect reality and informality, as well as to uphold his reputation as an international artist through the inclusion of subjects from all across the world. Through the representation of a range of locations, cultures and races, Streuli captures the essence of diversity, as well as his personal lack of prejudice.

The works feature Europeans, Indians, Arabs, Spaniards and Afro-Americans carrying out ordinary activities, such as crossing the road, talking to friends or chatting on their mobile phones. Streuli travelled across the world to capture imagery for his photographic collection. By travelling to Brussels, New York, Cape Town, São Paulo, Sydney and Guangzhou, the exhibition forms a global portrait. As these images will be exhibited in Birmingham, a city with a widely multi-cultural demographic, this reflection of a world full of diversity is particularly relevant.

Since the 1990s, Streuli has been consolidating his perspective on his surroundings, and today aims to encapsulate our streets and current environment. Streuli finds more artistic value in scenes that are candidly shot, reflecting a more natural setting. Close-ups also reveal his preference for intimate shots. With this in mind, the works will certainly be highly engaging and reflective through the rendering of something real; images that depict authentic gestures and everyday events. By representing different cultures as equals, profound questions about humanity are provoked.

To accompany the exhibition, Streuli has produced a limited edition print which will be available at Ikon. There is also a catalogue for further information about Streuli which includes text by the artist himself and articles by the cultural theorist Sadie Plant. VM B

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FRAME 40 ARTISTS / 30 FRAMES / 3 MONTHSMain hub - Yorks Cafe, Newhall StreetVarious venues throughout Birminghamwww.projectframe.net | @FRAME_brum

Getting art out of the galleries and in to the wider public sphere is a challenge that curator Elly Clarke has taken on for the next 3 months.

Small, unique edition artworks by 40 local and international artists that cross over artforms and continents, have been installed into a variety of businesses. Shops, cafes, bars and restaurants across the city have been used to showcase works as a means of bringing art to new audiences, new audiences to art and new contexts in which art can be shown.

Launched in November the frames will remain in place for three months, with work changing when sold. A website has been set up to act as the mirror to show what is on display in the city. All work is also for sale with a maximum price of £750 and the pieces can be purchased with an interest free loan via the Own Art scheme.

Yorks Bakery Cafe will act as the central hub during the three month exhibition, where you can find out more about the project, or purchase tickets for tours led by Birmingham artists, curators and business owners as well as by members of the FRAME team. (Image Credit: Liz Rosenfeld & NowMomentNow, Liebe, 1926/2011, 2011, Collage, 50cmx43cm. Showing at Pub Du Vin).

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4:3 CONTEMpORARy ART FOR DOWNlOAD www.lambwhite.com

The World Wide Web has been something of equaliser in developed nations. It has brought down tyrants and broken bureaucrats. It has humbled the mighty and empowered the masses. But it hasn’t all been good. While it is supporting the amateur, it is also – slowly – undermining the professional. Established artists are finding it harder to bring in the bacon. Likewise, those who are starting out are finding it tougher to give up their day jobs. After all, if you can get something for free would you pay for it?

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Taking up the challenge is Lamb White, the web equivalent of a small gallery. In an approach inspired by the rise of e-books and apps they’ve made numbered prints available for download. Upon purchase customers are sent a certificate of authenticity. Its first outing is named “4:3” – in honour of the commission shape: four units wide by three units tall.

Each of the artists involved has developed their own relationship with the web. Ron Haselden has done a long series of works as emailed postcards. Naren Wilks is a filmmaker who looks at new ways of reimagining traditional cinema. Sally Payen’s work was inspired by civil disorder, such as the 2011 riots. Darryl Georgiou’s images are inspired by television news footage.

Artist Siân Hislop (pictured) believes that it is the next logical step: “The advent of digital media has transformed the way we see and think about art, making it accessible to so many more people. We increasingly experience the world through digital media, from social networking sites to on-line shopping to YouTube. We are evolving as creatures through this new digital world; it makes sense that art will evolve with us.”

However, she is not fully converted yet: “Viewing an image of a piece of art on a computer is not the same as viewing it in the flesh. I don’t think you get quite the same sense of intimacy or emotion that you get from spending time viewing the actual work.”

Curator Caitlin Griffiths admits that the concept might require some trial-and-error: “It’s very much an experiment at this stage. We might have to do six or seven different approaches before we get one where people think they’re getting value.”

For the time being it’s up to collectors to see what they make of the medium and for now 4:3 offers the best of both worlds; with digital and print editions for sale at www.lambwhite.com. RW

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HO HO HO! It’s Christmaaaaaas! It didn’t take us long to get in the festive spirit when we found out what the region has to offer us during this wonderful time of year. There’s Christmas markets, carol concerts, pantos and workshops aplenty to keep your holiday cheer up during December.

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1 DECEMBERCHRISTMAS ART BuSIkon Gallery: 12pm-6pmFree Christmas tour of Birmingham galleries

AFRIDIzIAk GIFTS AND OCCASIONS WINTER FAIR The Drum: 12.00pm, £3

CHRISTMAS CAROl SINGING The Public: 12.30pm, Free

CAROlS AT SOHO HOuSESoho House: 7.00pm, £9Get in the mood for the festive season with warming winter refreshments, Christmas carols and a chance to see Soho in all its splendour decked out for the Christmas holidays.

MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS IN HIS GROTTOBirmingham Museum and Art Gallery11.00am – 4.00pm, £3The ticket price includes a small gift and you are welcome to take photographs (also on the 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23 Dec).

2 DECEMBERCHRISTMAS OpEN DAyHighbury Hall10.30am, Free or £3 with tour

4 DECEMBERTuESDAy TAlkS CAROl SERVICE Birmingham Cathedral1.00pm, Free

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AND CAROlSCentral Square, Brindleyplace5.30pm, Free

5 DECEMBERVOluNTARy SERVICES OVERSEAS CAROl CONCERTBirmingham Cathedral8.00pm, £8

6 DECEMBERCHRISTMAS DElIGHTSSoho House1.30pm, £6See Soho House decorated for Christmas, take a tour of the House and learn how 18th century England would have celebrated the Christmas holiday.

BIRMINGHAM CHIlDREN’S HOSpITAl CAROl CONCERTBirmingham Cathedral7.30pm, £10

SOlIHull CHRISTMAS CRAFT MARkETS & FARMERS MARkET Solihull Town Centre6,13, 20 DecemberGrab one-of-a-kind gifts from many craft and artisan stalls or indulge in the taste of Christmas, with the many fine foods and drinks on offer from the region’s top producers. Fine & local food Fayre - 15 December.

7 DECEMBERJOyEux NOël WITH THE CuRlEW ENSEMBlEBirmingham Cathedral1.00pm, £3 r

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BIRMINGHAM CHIlDREN’S HOSpITAl CAROl CONCERTBirmingham Cathedral8.00pm, £10

8 DECEMBERVINTAGE FAIRWulfrun Hall, Wolverhampton10am-4pm, £1 (50p)50+ stalls selling the finest vintage clothing, accessories, handmade crafts, gifts plus much more. The licensed bar will be open alongside a pop-up tearoom.

CHRISTMAS CElEBRATIONSMuseum of the Jewellery Quarter10.30am-4.00pm, FreeCostumed guided tours, carol singing by Enchant choir and festive refreshments in the tearoom. Buy those last minute presents in the gift shop, or choose from the extensive selection of designer jewellery.

CHRISTMAS AT WINTERBOuRNEWinterbourne House & Garden10.30am, £5 (£3.50)Enjoy Christmas fun, Edwardian style. The house will be decked out in all its seasonal glory with boughs of holly and a traditional tree. Upstairs there will be festive themed craft activities for children and Magic Lantern shows. Christmas treats will be available in the tearoom and traditional carols will be sung. To round off this day of family fun, there will also be a magical grotto where you can meet Father Christmas.

BRINDlEyplACE BIG CHRISTMAS pARTyCentral Square, Brindley Place11.00am-3.00pm, FreeThe annual Santas on the Run event raises money for Acorns Children’s Hospice. Join hundreds of people running, skipping, walking and jogging the route dressed as Santa in support of local life limited children. The celebrations will continue into the afternoon with the Brindleyplace Big Christmas Party.

CHRISTMAS CAROl SINGINGThe Public12.30pm, Free

MARkETplACE – CRAFT FAIR mac, Cannon Hill Park11am-5pm, Free entry The contemporary craft fair will feature a range of high quality work from exciting designer makers across ceramics, jewellery, textiles, woodwork and visual art. With more than 50 exhibitor stands each day, this is an exclusive opportunity to buy and commission the very best in unique crafts, direct from the maker (plus 9, 15 & 16 Dec).

CANDlElIT CHRISTMAS CONCERT The Bramall Festival of Music, University of Birmingham7.30pm, £25/£15 (£20/£12), Students £7.50Candlelit Christmas concert performed by the Ex Cathedra Consort.

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MAkING MERRy The Herbert, Coventry10.00am – 4.00pm, FreeThe Christmas shopper’s haven offers unique handmade gifts, decorations and food in a relaxed seasonal atmosphere. Enjoy music from the region’s best choirs and acoustic musicians. Check out the vintage grotto in the atmospheric medieval Undercroft or browse the selection of craft and food stalls to find that perfect present with a personal touch. Workshops available.

9 DECEMBERCandle & Wreath MakingMoseley Bog, 12.30pm

BIRMINGHAM GAy SyMpHONy ORCHESTRA pRESENTS FAIRy TAlE CHRISTMASBirmingham Conservatoire5.00pm, £10-12 COMEDIANS AND CAROlSBirmingham Cathedral7.00pm, £8.50A Christmas Comedy Show with sing-along carols, featuring Paul Kerensa, Barbara Nice (AKA Janice Connolly; Phoenix Nights), Jo Enright (Trollied, Lap Rats, I’m Alan Partridge) and Gareth Richards (Frank Skinner’s Absolute Radio Show).

CHRISTMAS WITH THE SAlVATION ARMySymphony Hall, 7.30pm, £8-12

10 DECEMBER SWINGlE SINGERS: yulE SONGSTown Hall7.30pm, £16.50-18.50

11 DECEMBERQuEEN ElIzABETH HOSpITAl CAROl CONCERTBirmingham Cathedral, 7.00pm, £5

MIDlANDS HOSpITAlS’ CHOIR - A CHRISTMAS CElEBRATIONSymphony Hall, 7.30pm

THE NATIONAl TRuST BACk TO BACkSHurst Street, Birmingham6.30pm-8.30pm, £12/£6. Booking essential 0121 622 2442.Visitors can enjoy an atmospheric evening of Carols sung by a local choir within the candlelit courtyard of the Back to Backs at its Carols in the Courtyard evenings. Visitors will be treated to mulled wine and mince pie.

13 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS ClASSICAl CONCERTThe Public, 7.00pm, £3.50

THAT’ll BE THE DAy CHRISTMAS SHOWTown Hall, 7.30pm, £23.50

SMAll ENSEMBlE SERIES: AN EARly MuSIC CHRISTMASBirmingham Conservatoire8.00pm, £5.50 (£3)

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14 DECEMBERMOSElEy CHRISTMAS ARTS MARkETBirmingham Cathedral, 9am - 5pmMoseley Arts Market will be back in Birmingham Cathedral grounds for a Christmas market. Make sure you visit for your Christmas shopping and meet talented local designers and makers.

CHRISTMAS COMEDy SHOWCASEThe Public, 6.00pm, £14Sean Percival, Al Rudge, Masai Graham, Jarred Christmas, Compere: James Cook

COlMORE BID CHRISTMAS THEMED FlATpACk FIlM EVENTBirmingham Cathedral6.30pm, £5. Book tickets via www.flatpackfestival.org.uk or by cash on the door.Flatpack presents a Christmas film night within the beautiful surroundings of Birmingham Cathedral. The evening’s programme starts with short films with a festive theme, including Edison’s 1910 adaptation of A Christmas Carol, and end with a main feature - Buster Keaton’s 1928 feature, The Cameraman.

kINVER lATE NIGHT CHRISTMAS SHOppINGKinver High Street, StaffordshireUntil 9pm

Head to the picturesque village for a touch of independent shopping and pick up some last minute gifts and locally produced items.

15 DECEMBERNOTORIOuS CHOIRAround Southside: The Arcadian, Hippodrome Piazza and Hurst Street From 8pm, FreeSouthside will be filled with the sound of music with singing from Birmingham’s Notorious Choir, and visitors can pose with friends and family in the festive Christmas cut-out boards. Santa will also be welcoming visitors to the district by handing out some Christmas gifts (and the 16, 22).

lIVE NATIVITyQueen Square & Dudley Street, Wolverhampton, 11am – 3pmA live nativity will be performed in Queen Square with real camels and donkeys. Meanwhile Sid and Scrat (Ice Age) will be around keep the kids entertained in Dudley Street and brass bands will serenade shoppers.

VICTORIAN MERRy CHRISTMASBlakesely Hall, 12.00pm, £8 (£6)Blakesley’s annual Christmas celebration goes Victorian. Meet costumed characters, hear the choir and hand bell ringers.

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CHRISTMAS CAROl SINGINGThe Public, 12.30pm, Free

CAROlS IN THE CITyBirmingham Cathedral4.30pm, Free

16 DECEMBERCAROlS By CANDlElIGHTSymphony Hall2.30pm, £12.50-£36

CITy OF BIRMINGHAM CHOIR: CHRISTMAS TREATSTown Hall2.30pm, £5-£25 CHRISTMAS WITH THE TOWN HAll GOSpEl CHOIRThe Drum: 7.00pm, £12.50 (£8.50)

18 DECEMBERCHRISTMAS DINNER AND CAROl SINGINGHighbury Hall: 7.00pm

Ex CATHEDRA: CHRISTMAS MuSIC By CANDlElIGHTSt. Paul’s Church: 7.30pm, £9.50-£30 (and the 19, 21, 22 Dec)

21 DECEMBERCBSO: FESTIVE FAVOuRITES WITH AlAN TITCHMARSHSymphony Hall7.30pm, £12.50-£40 (and the 22, 23 Dec)

BlACk VOICES’ CHRISTMAS SpECIAlTown Hall: 7.30pm

22 DECEMBERCHRISTMAS CAROl SINGINGThe Public: 12.30pm, FreeJINGlE BEll CHRISTMASSymphony Hall2.30pm, £12.50-£36

23 DECEMBERMAC FOOD MARkET Cannon Hill Park10.30am – 3.30pm, Free entryIndulge yourself with tasty treats and specialist goods at a special festive edition of mac’s monthly food market. Come along and fill your shopping bags with delicious produce, just in time for Christmas.

CATHEDRAl SINGERSSt. Chad’s Cathedral: 5.00pm

A CHRISTMAS CAROl By CHARlES DICkENSTown Hall: 7.30pm, £16.50

27 DECEMBERlAST NIGHT OF THE CHRISTMAS pROMSSymphony Hall7.30pm, £12.50-£36

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leading figures of the UK spoken word scene. Head to the HMV Institute Library (who knew they had one of those?) for some angry truth delivered with machine-like speed and precision.

MuMFORD & SONS, DAWES7 DecemberLG Arenawww.lgarena.co.uk @thelgarenaFresh from impressing themselves upon the US, Mumford and his offspring are back in the homeland to promote their chart-topping second studio album ‘Babel’. The band are well-known for their bouncing live shows. If you go down to the LG today you can expect banjos, tweed waistcoats and handlebar moustaches. Support comes from the shambling, romanticised Americana four-piece

THE RAVEONETTES, HOly ESQuE2 DecemberHMV Institute, Digbethhmvinstitute.com @hmvinstituteCan shoegaze be anthemic? Or is it always? If these are the questions you like to ponder, watch as Danish Indie band Raveonettes get dark and edgy at HMV Institute. Support comes from Glaswegian four piece Holy Esque. Good if you like Glasvegas, Sonic Youth, any film with Michael Cera, and being alone, together.

SCROOBIuS pIp7 DecemberHMV Institute, Digbethhmvinstitute.com @hmvinstituteBetter known for being the beardy one that goes with brother-in-arms Dan le Sac, Pip is now one of the

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Dawes (pictured) who’ll be bringing a hint of California sunshine to the cold streets of Birmingham.

CERyS By CANDlElIGHT9 December Glee Club, Hurst Streetwww.glee.co.uk @TheGleeClubShe of Catatonia (pictured over) fame goes all Radio 2 with a night of poetry, music and chat. You will know some of the songs, and for all the others there’s a handy sheet with the words. There will be candles, there will be sing-alongs, there will be ‘winter warmers’, you’ll have to cross your fingers for mulled wine (pictured).

THE BlACk kEyS, THE MACCABEES9 DecemberThe NIA

www.thenia.co.uk @theniaI’m going to start a rumour right here that Quentin Tarantino is scoring his next film entirely with Black Keys songs. Get behind me here, if we can get enough momentum it might become a self-fulfilling prophecy. They are on tour for their seventh studio album in just over ten years; ‘El Camino’. By anyone’s standards, that’s a good effort.

THE HIVES, THE MINuTES11 DecemberO2 Academy 2, Horsefairwww.o2academybirmingham.co.uk@o2academybhamWhile they can’t claim to be your new favourite band any more, The Hives are hitting as hard as ever, and are dressed just as sharply.

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The Swedish rockers are back in the UK to promote Lex Hives. Support comes from Irish three-piece The Minutes – a band that are all distortion and razor edges.

MADNESS13 DecemberLG Arenawww.lgarena.co.uk @thelgarenaIt’ll be interesting to know how this one goes down. Madness are still a massive live band, as they proved during the Olympics opening ceremony. That said, the LG arena is a cavernous venue, and it will take a lot to keep the atmosphere right. I’ve got a good feeling about this particular gig though.

EllIE GOulDING 16 DecemberO2 Academy 2www.o2academybirmingham.co.uk@o2academybhamThe much vaunted singer

songwriter has slowly built up a massive following in the last couple of years. Now she’s bringing them to Birmingham. The twenty five year old has been experimenting with layering vocal samples, and you can expect the resulting live show to be pretty stunning.

TIM BuRGESS16 DecemberGlee Club, Hurst Streetwww.glee.co.uk/ @TheGleeClubBack from writing and recording his latest album in Nashville, Tennessee, Charlatans frontman Tim Burgess is ready to get things cracking. His backing band even includes Charlatans guitarist Mark Collins. Expect his usual quality guitar pop, but with a US edge. Check out the feature in last month’s Area Culture Guide for more info.

STEREOpHONICS, GAz COOMBES19 DecemberO2 Academy 2www.o2academybirmingham.co.uk@o2academybhamThe Welsh Rod Steward wannabes are back. New single ‘In A Moment’ has got a darker vibe than some of their previous material, and it seems to be working. They’ve also brought friends in the shape of Supergrass front-man Gaz Coombes. Expect to hear a lot of his new material. RW

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BARBARA NICE’S COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS The Old Joint Stock Theatre, 4 Temple Row, B2 5NYwww.oldjointstocktheatre.co.uk 18-22 December£10/£12

With extensive touring experience and a stack of TV and radio appearances behind her - notably in Peter Kay’s comedy vehicles Phoenix Nights and Max and Paddy’s Road To Nowhere - Barbara Nice has become a familiar face on the UK’s independent comedy circuit, not to mention securing a top spot as one of Birmingham’s most popular comperes and hostesses.

Nice has perfected her brand of interactive comedy over the years, performing as much with the audience at gigs as to them, in the role of an opinionated suburban housewife and mother of five from Stockport: the upbeat agony aunt who has a heart-warming answer to most of life’s problems.

Janice Connolly, who plays Nice, is the co-founder and artistic director of creative organisation Women and Theatre and has a wealth of acting, writing and directing at her disposal – no doubt one of the reasons she’s able to consistently produce brilliant new material each year.

Amidst the madness of the festive season, spending an evening in her cheery and slightly madcap company is a proposition that will surely appeal to even the most antisocial Scrooges amongst us, particularly in the cosy surroundings of the Old Joint Stock’s theatre.

We’re talking the old-fashioned staples of a good night out - singing, dancing, sharing and perhaps a spot of crowd-surfing (yes, really!). What’s so fantastic about Nice’s performances is that no one show is the same, but all shows definitely result in one thing – a life-affirming live experience.

You can also catch Barbara at mac, Cannon Hill Park on the 7th December with her ‘Christmas Cracker’. Tickets are £5. LB

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WINTER SPORTS MIDLANDS STYLE

I love that this country loses its collective mind when it snows. We act all surprised that the country has ground to a skidding stop, but we all are hiding the truth – we bloody love it.

First of all we get to moan, and if we’re feeling fruity, even tut. Secondly, to not go into work appeals to the wide anti-authoritarian streak inside the British, it’s from our race memory of constant invasion and foreign rule. And thirdly; we’re programmed from school to worship the snow gods as granters of the most magical gift a child can receive; the snow day, a day where maths lessons are turned into advanced snowman studies, weak squash transformed into hot chocolate, and a dull bus ride home becomes sledging – an activity so dangerous I’m surprised it’s not sponsored by Red Bull. Potentially the most exhilarating thing you do all year if you don’t count the time you pushed those first year kids into a phone box and held the door shut while a friend threw fireworks in from the bottom.

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Birmingham has many urban parks and most kids have their own secret spot, but bothering random kids about their ‘secret spot’ can get in into a lot of trouble so its probably best to stick to this handy guide.

HIll TOp pARk IN NORTHFIElDNot the steepest incline but one of the longest hills which is good for beginners or cowards. The climb back up is a massive trek.Warning – It is Northfield, which is like a cross between the Jeremy Kyle show and Lord of the Flies. Also the day after the sled runs have streaks of different shades of brown where the snow has melted enough to get to the myriad of dog poop left in the park.

BEHIND THE OAk TREE puB IN REDNAlI used to be the bar supervisor when the pub was known as the Poachers Pocket. One evening while enjoying an after work pint or three with my best mate and my brother we noticed it had absolutely thumped it down with snow. We giddily got up and decided to go sledging. Without a sledge we cut down one of the big vinyl display banners and climbed to the top of the steep incline behind the pub. After a fortifying swig from a hip flask we huddled together and launched ourselves down the hill.Warning – there is no grass at the bottom of the hill, just a path you miss completely as you fly off the wall and a road which you land on messily.

THE BEACON IN THE lICkEy HIllSAnyone from south Birmingham will tell you the beacon is, hands feet and face first down, the BEST sledging spot. Beacon hill is behind the golf course and has a mini castle type structure at the top, it can be seen from all of south Birmingham and affords stunning views of the city. It would be the perfect romantic place to take a girl or boy or whatever if, at night time, it didn’t turn into a notorious dogging spot with a car park full of men selling drugs to each other. The hill from the top to the golf course on the bottom is nearly a sheer drop that only the young, stupid, or drunk would ever survive. Near the bottom it evens out to the perfect angle. Everybody goes there, I’ve seen snow boarders, inflatable boats, and even humble bin liners being used.Warning – the bumps on the side of the Selfridges building make highly effective but very dangerous sledges. I couldn’t stop, hit a tree and spent the next couple of hours pretending not to have concussion.

Sledging, its free, fun at any age, and if you end up in hospital, can turn the one snow day off work into a week or so if you do it right. See you on the slopes. DS

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FOOD&DRINK

GASTRONOMIC GIFTS

Options for fine dining in Midlands this Christmas are endless. But what about regional foodie treats for underneath the Christmas tree?

Here are some alternative edible gift ideas with a distinctively Birmingham and Black Country twist. There’s not a tired old jar of chutney or jumbo tin of Quality Street in sight…

CADBuRy’S SElECTION BOx: Not exactly groundbreaking, but Cadbury’s is Birmingham’s biggest and proudest food manufacturer. Putting grumblings about Kraft to one side - ‘tis Christmas after all – who doesn’t feel a swell of nostalgia and joy upon sight of a finger of Fudge or a Wildlife Bar? With nearly 200 years of chocolatey heritage, each selection pack is a scrumptious Brummie time capsule. You can even build your own customized selection box online. www.cadburygiftdirect.co.uk

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BAlTI kIT: The Balti is arguably Birmingham’s greatest contribution to UK culi-nary culture. Whilst taking your mates for a curry would be a generous gesture, why not give them the gift of curry throughout the year? Head down the Soho Road or to your local Asian supermarket and stock up on bags of East End Spices. These local spice legends have been adding colour and flavour to Bir-mingham tables for 35 years. Scribble down some favourite curry recipes and parcel it all up in an authentic balti pan. www.curry-lover.co.uk

THE BlACk COuNTRy HAMpER: Ideal for Tiptonians in London exile, this little box of treats is the true taste of the Black Country. Pork Scratchings from Midland Snacks, Herbal Tablets from Teddy Grays, a slab of Bread Pudding from the Pork Joint in Cradley Heath and a hunk of finest Black Pudding, all washed down with a bottle of Bathams Bitter. The more adventurous can also add some of Trailhead’s spicy beef jerky, a trendy newcomer but Black Country through and through! www.teddygrays.co.uk | www.trailheadfinefoods.co.uk

BREW A BEER IN DAy: Sadlers Ales offer this unique real ale experience at their CAMRA award winning tap house, The Windsor Castle in Lye. The beer packed day includes breakfast, lunch and, err, lots of beer. Guests get to mash, boil and pitch their own signature brew with help on hand from Sadler’s expert brewers before indulging in a beer sampling session. If the £99 price tag is a bit too steep, check out the more affordable Brewery Tour that comes in at just £15 and includes a beer infused Ploughmans. www.sadlersales.co.uk REGIONAl CHEESE SElECTION: Nothing says: “I love you” quite like the gift of stinky cheese. Pop into Anderson and Hill in the Great Western Arcade to stock up on fine local cheeses. Fair enough, there aren’t cows grazing on Pigeon Park, but this excellent gourmet delicatessen prides itself of stocking the best cheese from neighboring counties (the ones with more grass). The staff know their stuff and will happily help you to build a dream cheeseboard for that someone special… www.andersonandhill.co.uk

COCkTAIl MASTERClASS: Buy a man a martini and he’ll feel like Bond for an evening, teach him how to make a martini and he’ll feel like a very drunk Bond all year round. The Jekyll and Hyde’s exclusive and intimate Gin Parlour makes an excellent destination for a two-hour masterclass (£25 per person) with the bar’s expert bartenders. They talk guest through the history of cocktail culture before teaching them how to make classic cocktails that they can recreate at home. 2013 looks set to be a good year for house parties!www.thejekyllandhyde.co.uk JE

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LAC ARTISTÉ RESTAURANT ASTBURY HALLChelmarsh, Bridgnorth, 01746 767394www.astburyhall.co.uk

A Georgian stately home, the Shropshire countryside and a luxury golf course aren’t natural bedfellows with heavy metal music but then the owner of Astbury Hall is no obvious (dark) lord of the manor.

Set in 350 acres of luscious scenery Judas Priest guitarist KK Downing has transformed the home and surrounding land in to an impressive destination suitable for golfers of all skill levels and those who just want to dine; which is exactly what we did.

Launched in October Lac Artisté restaurant is a perfect addition. Set on the ground floor of the hall sumptuous contemporary soft furnishings compliment traditional decor inkeeping with the home but touches of the rockstar lifestyle remind guests who is behind the venue.

Judas Priest gold and platinum discs are hung throughout the dining area alongside abstract portraits of musicians like BB King, Ray Charles and Bob Dylan which gives us an excuse to take our pre-dinner drinks and have a look around. Even the bar tables and mirrors are etched to look like vinyl; there are hints of the lifestyle of a musician everywhere if you look closely enough.

The restaurant holds 60 covers over 3 rooms which can be split down for large parties and private diners offering a myriad of options for guests and large parties. Our seat was in the window close to the bar, it is just a shame it was so dark outside that we couldn’t see the lovely grounds and the lake but it is atmospheric and homely, we love it.

The a La Carte evening menu offers good hearty locally sourced food with a touch of Mediterranean inspiration thanks to Head chef Amadou Sam Faal. The portions are surprisingly generous and very reasonable priced. It is unpretentious, and that includes the wine list (the most expensive bottle we noticed was £40), which is refreshing in the surroundings.

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For our starters we try Chicken liver parfait served with onion marmalade with wholemeal croute (£5.50) and Hummus with olives and confit tomatoes in balsamic oil with warm Pitta bread (£5.00). Both are presented beautifully and taste delicious. The portions are perfectly sized and go down very well. There are around five to six mains to choose from including veggie options, with the addition of prime cut Steaks and fish/seafood dishes. We go for Shropshire grilled Lamb Rump, served with a Minted Jus (£14) and the Trio of Fish (£17) which is Seabass, Salmon, and scallops. We make the mistake of ordering two sides each (Sauteed Spinach x 2, Sauteed Potatoes and Mediterranean Vegetables) where one each would of been plenty enough. Each dish comes with a healthy serving of green leaf which would be suitable on its own. Both dishes are plentiful, cooked perfectly and most importantly delicious and full of flavour.

Of course there is no room for dessert but we just manage to share one and we were so glad that we did. Our choice is the Baileys & Lavender Creme Brulee with Shortbread (£6). The texture is velvety creamy and it tastes scrumptious so much so I need the recipe. It will certainly go up there with one of the nicest desserts i’ve ever had the pleasure of eating.

The a la carte Lac Artisté restaurant is open on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings. A more relaxed lunch menu is available throughout the week, and Astbury Hall also has a fantastic Sunday Dinner option too; we’ll be trying it all. A Christmas Day menu is available for £65 per person.

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FOOD&DRINK

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WINTER COCKTAILS AT LE TRUC 21 Ladywell Walk, Birmingham, B5 4ST 0121 622 7050www.letruc.co.uk | @LeTrucCafe

We’re loving new French Bar & Restaurant in Southside that goes by the name of Le Truc. This art infused eclectic oasis of calm has a winning combination of hearty French food and artisan cocktails. We’ve invited bartender Aman Johl to share one of his concoctions from their winter cocktail menu.

Aman had this to say about a one of Le Truc’s new seasonal cocktails; “Our twist on a classic winter warmer, the Hot Toddy Calvados, balances the spice of our home made ginger and clove syrup with smooth honey and a cloudy apple juice. We’ve based our drink on the gentle warmth of Calvados, a French apple brandy, but if you’re making them at home any of the darker spirits will wash away those winter blues!”

To make this drink at home, take your favourite mug and begin by adding fresh ginger and a couple of cloves. Crush them gently, and add a generous measure of honey and the juice of half a lemon. Stir these with a generous measure of the spirit of your choice, and top with hot water. We have added apple juice to bring out the flavours of the Calvados in ours, but feel free to experiment.

HOT TODDy CAlVADOS - WHAT yOu’ll NEED50ml Calvados20ml Honey, Clove, and Ginger Syrup 20ml Lemon JuiceTop with hot water, add a dash of apple juice

Go and see the team at Le Truc, they’ll be happy to make some of their award winning cocktails, including Amans’ Cana Flip It? A recent winner at the Flor De Cana competition held in Birmingham; a creamy delight which blends lime curd, crushed Extra Strong mints and secret blend of five spices to create a delicate yet complex drinking experience. YUM!

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The resolution to ring your mum more often is relatively easy, whereas the promise to never, ever again touch another slice of chocolate cake, ever, is nigh impossible to keep. This is why the concept of New Year resolutions is a paradox in itself. Filled with the bloat of that last mince pie, the guilt of family frictions over the festive season and the suffocating dreariness of another three months of long, dark nights, New Year’s resolutions are like the five endless post-Christmas days eating turkey curry: arduous, disappointing and inevitably leading to ennui.

It is undoubtedly the impracticable stereotypes of New Year’s resolutions that lead to unavoidable failure. The going cold turkey (pun intended) on your twenty a day habit. The self-denial of even a sip of alcohol to brighten up the dreariest January evening. Instead, choose resolutions which will both alleviate those post-Christmas blues and create a feel-good factor that will last the entire year round. With this is in mind we’ve created a scheme of five resolutions which will benefit your mind, body and soul, and come January 1st, will actually be achievable.

GOOD FOR THE BODyTired of the annual failure of the Dukan, low GI or Raw Food diets by January 18th? Then don those trainers and sign yourself up for the Bupa Great Birmingham Run 2013. Resolutions are always easier to keep when you have a target to aim for, and being sponsored to raise money for charity will definitely give you that little

NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS THAT ARE EASY TO KEEP

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extra push to succeed. As the Great Birmingham Run is a half-marathon, and isn’t until October, it means you can train slowly, build stamina and hopefully retain that fitness until the 2013 festive season rolls around again. For more information see the website: www.greatrun.org.

GOOD FOR THE BRAINAre you a frustrated aspiring author? Have you ever harboured dreams of being the next J.K Rowling or Ian McEwan? Then pull your turkey-fuddled brain out of its festive daze and sign up to the Starting a Novel… And Finishing It creative writing course held at Light House, in Wolverhampton. The eight week course will give you the ability to discover your hidden writing talent, covering everything from developing an original idea, to plotting your novel and creating an effective denouement. As well as this, it will give you all the information and advice necessary to get your novel published. See the Light House website for more details: light-house.co.uk.

GOOD FOR THE BANk BAlANCEAre you both feeling the festive strain on your savings and unashamedly addicted to programme’s like Dragons’ Den? Take the plunge and combine the two by joining Birmingham’s Diverse Entrepreneur Network. A peer to peer mentoring club for business owners, of

any size or sector, the Diverse Entrepreneur Network offers support for businesses who want to both build their business and overcome its challenges. Comprising of monthly group mentoring sessions, interactive business training and public networking events, amongst others, joining DEN is the perfect way to facilitate your business success. entrepreneursbirmingham.com/diverse-entrepreneur-network/

GOOD FOR THE SOulArguably, as resolutions are made to become a more fulfilled and well-rounded person, it is surprising that this is an area often overlooked when compiling New Year’s resolutions. Looking after your body’s physical and mental needs is laudable, but what about your emotional needs? For 2013, make a resolution that gives something back to the community that you live in, and help those who aren’t as wealthy, healthy or lucky as you are. A great example is volunteering at the Birmingham Children’s Hospital; whether it’ll be reading to the children, keeping them company when their families’ have popped out for twenty minutes or showing people around, you know it’ll be doing your soul some good.For more information visit: www.bch.nhs.uk/parents-and-carers/volunteers.AW

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FASHION&SHOPPING

Stuck for ideas for what to buy your nearest and dearest? Well, look no further and read this guide on the best places to go to find that special gift for Christmas.

MR. BIRD’S EMpORIuM Gibb Street, Digbeth, Birmingham, B9 4AAmrbirdsemporium.co.uk @Mrbirdsemporium The cool kids behind Urban Village and Sutton Vintage & Arts Fair have joined forces to present a new concept in Vintage and Independent retail – Mr. Bird’s Emporium! If you want something different for your quirkiest and vintage loving buddies then you’ll find it here. With 13 permanent traders within one open plan shop space, your sure to find that special something.

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REDCANDywww.redcandy.co.ukNot strictly a store, but a website owned by a Birmingham based whizz-kid, which will have fans of the colour red dancing in excitement. This website has the quirkiest gifts for the home – our personal favourites are the invisible book shelf and the do-it-yourself cubic clock. Perfect for gifts for him and her.

FFRENCHy’S The Custard Factory, Gibb Streetwww.ffrenchys.comIf antique furniture and one-off vintage furnishings float your boat, then this is a little treasure trove for more spectacular gifts. Cocktail cabinets, cute crockery, collectables and great dinner party fodder can be found – perfect for gifts for mum and your vintage fashionista friends.

NOSTAlGIA & COMICS14-16 Smallbrook Queensway Birmingham,B5 4ENforbiddenplanet.co.ukIf your buddies are more into geek chic, then the comics and memorabilia in this store will bring a smile to their faces. Nostalgia & Comics is one of the UK’s original comic shops, opening in 1977, which makes it the second oldest in the UK.It has comics and graphic novels aplenty, covering all genres as well as little pieces of associate memorabilia that will definitely boggle your mind for hours as you choose the perfect gift.

CyBER CANDy80 Bull Street Birmingham B4 6AB0845 838 0958cybercandy.co.ukThe greatest place to find presents for your sweet toothed friends. This year we’re hoping we get plenty of Oreo Kit Kat Chunky’s and massive Star Wars Pez dispensers from Cyber Candy. There are so many sweets and chocolate in here from all over the world that you could quite possibly pass out from the choice and sugar in the air. You really won’t leave this place without a bag full of goodies.

RAQuEl ROuGE 1 Newbold Terrace, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV32 4EA01926 886357www.raquelrouge.co.ukLadies, looking for a marvellous way to treat yourself? Raquel Rogue offers a ‘boudoir session in a box’ which includes a voucher for hair, make-up, photo shoot, basic retouching and two 5x7 prints in a 220 x 220 x 100mm shiny black box laced with red ribbon. The girls at the studio will make-up even the shyest girlie at ease and the images are reminiscent of vintage Hollywood glamour shots of the bygone era. KO

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FASHION&SHOPPING

DESIGN SPACE FESTIVE POP-UP Great Western Arcade, Birminghamwww.number22design.wordpress.comOpen until Christmas

Festive pop-up shop Number 22 will showcase the first jewellery and giftware collections of 12 up-and-coming designer makers from the Design Space.Specialising in handmade, beautifully-finished, limited-edition pieces the shop is part of a unique scheme managed by Birmingham City Council that provides business support and workshop space to emerging jewellers.

Pieces available to buy range from glimmering gemstones cushioned in gold and silver to colourful, quirky pieces made from unorthodox materials like Amanda Trimmer’s ‘Secret Superhero’ collection pictured above. The shop is staffed by the designers themselves, who are on hand to share insight into the jewels, discuss bespoke commissions and help ensure the gift buying experience is as enjoyable as possible, even providing a luxury gift-wrapping service.

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FASHION&SHOPPING

Ciate Mini Bar £38, Selfridges

Christmas Tree Decoration, £45georgjensen.com/uk/

Bobbi Brown Powder Pearls Trio, Selfridges

Bath Crystals£6, The Body Shop

Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick. £35, Selfridges

New Look, £19.99

Tatty Devin Head Band, £81

Stag Ring, £40 Goldsmiths

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River Island£38

Ecru, £38

Vivienne Westwood Watch, Goldsmiths £275

James Bond: 50 Years of Movie Posters, £35.00

Tommy Hillfiger Watch, £155 Goldsmiths

Tatty Devin Cufflinks, £24

Ping Pong LTD ED DVD box set, £59.99

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FASHION&SHOPPING

Friendly Foxes$40, poketo.com

Shit London, £9.99

Jon Burgerman LUSH bath bomb Gift Set, £25burgerplex.com

Heidi Kenney plush toys, $24.95 kidrobot.com

Minotaur print by Jane Anderson, £15 currentstate.bigcartel.com

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Woodprint, 60e dudes-factory.com

LTD ed Laser Cut Wooden Brooch, £15thecloudcommission.bigcartel.com

Jon Burgerman Crockery Gift Set, £40 burgerplex.com

Jeremyville T-shirt, $55 jeremyville.com

Customised bikes by Mango from £269www.mangobikes.co.uk

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COMPETITIONS

DWELL WIN A £250 VOuCHERwww.dwell.co.uk Our favorite High Street furniture retailer, dwell, is opening a new store at the Bullring in Birmingham this December. The new store will become the 24th for the eclectic retailer who already has stores in Solihull and Fort Dunlop.

Dwell is the ultimate stylish high street home store offering an eclectic mix of furniture and accessories for all areas of the home, from sofas and dining tables to statement lighting and glamorous bedrooms.

This prize will give you the opportunity to spruce up your home with something new from their gorgeous collections. *How to enter on Page 41.

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WIN A uNISEx CAMBRIDGE RAINCOATwww.cambridgeraincoats.co.ukThe new men’s collection from The Cambridge Raincoat Company pro-vides the perfect combination of style and substance in equal mea-sure. Designed as the perfect wet weather solution for cyclists, a Cam-bridge Raincoat has all the practi-cal properties needed, whilst being easy to wear and looking great. The men’s raincoats also look equally fabulous on ladies, making them a brilliant unisex option. A true invest-ment piece that will never go out of fashion.Win this Tomato Red Cambridge Raincoat, complete with ink blue polka dot lining, worth £220.00. *Please include your size when you enter.

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WIN A RACHAEl TAylOR IpOD & IpHONE CASEwww.rachaeltaylordesigns.co.ukInternationally acclaimed surface pattern designer and textile artist Rachael Taylor’s distinctive collections are sold worldwide. Her work decorates the world and you can find her products in areas such as stationery through to homewares. Rachael creates ‘patterns to make you happy’ and her zest for life and colour comes through in her designs and brand. Rachael is known for her strong signature look. Her designs are full of energy, fun, contemporary, quirky & fresh and this season you’ll find her new designs on covers for iPads and iPhones and we have one of each to giveaway.The ‘Retro Field’ Keka™ case is fashion & style for your iPad and iPhone! Akin to a hardback book cover eco-friendly inks are used for printing and the case is made to resist tears and stains as well as water. The Keka for the iPad also doubles as a stand!

WIN

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COMPETITIONS

SupERDRy WATCHES - 1 male & 1 female to Giveawaywww.superdry.comSuperdry have just launched there brand-new watch collection.The collection offers vintage-inspired raw leather pieces and robust steel bracelet watches, through to clean and delicate preppy styles and soft silicone colour-pop sporty pieces. This diverse collection of timepieces creates the perfect balance between distressed leathers and functional design, with equally appealing pric-es from £59.99 to £109.99.

ROBINSON CRuSOE AND THE CARIBBEAN pIRATESWIN TICkETS FOR A FAMIly OF 4Brian Conley has become somewhat of a regular at the Birmingham Hip-podrome and he is returning once again as the lead role of Robinson Crusoe in his sixth pantomime at the theatre. Brian is joined by television and stage actress Lesley Joseph and Kathryn Rooney who will all be on hand to make sure you have a memorable evening in this dazzling show.Tickets are priced £14-£37.50 www.birminghamhippodrome.com; or call 0844 338 5000

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WIN A JElly BEllu BEAN MACHINE AND A kIlO OF TASTy BEANSwww.jellybelly-uk.comJelly Belly® jelly beans are in a league of their own - the coolest, most delicious jelly beans imaginable. Full of true-to-life flavour and developed for the sophisticated palate (ahem), the beans are packed with an intensely juicy taste, from their brightly coloured shells right through to their centres. Blissful indulgence comes via 90 authentic flavours including Green Tea, Chilli Mango, Piňa Colada or Juicy Pear and the Jelly Belly bean machine is an essential accessory to dispense them. We’re giving one away plus a kilo of delicious, luscious Jelly Belly jelly beans.

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BROADWAy T2 WIRElESS TV STREAMER TO IpHONE/IpAD/pC1 to GiveawayIdeal for frequent travelers, this small box sits between your TV source and internet router and lets users access live TV from anywhere in the world. Just use your Mac, iPhone, iPad, PC or Android devices and download a browser link to scan literally any chan-nel. You need never miss an episode of your favourite programme again no matter where in the World you travel to. Available now at £149.99 from www.play.com

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WIN

WI DRIVE1 to GiveawayWirelessly share your world with family and friends with this great pocket-sized portable storage device that offers file sharing for Apple iPad, iPHone and iPod touch, Android devices, Kindle Fire and loads more. This savvy, slim device allows you to wirelessly stream and share music, documents, movies and photos with up to 3 different users at the same time via a web browser. Available in capacities of 32GB and 64GB with a price tag of £89.99 (64GB) at www.amazon.co.uk

HOW TO ENTER To enter any of the competitions tell us: What date is Boxing Day? Send your answer via email to competitions@fusedmagazine.com along with your name, address, telephone number and date of birth. Please put the name of the competition in the subject box. Only one email per competition. Deadline for entry to all competitions is the 17th December.

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COMPETITIONS

SpORTING GREATS 1 DvD BoX Set to GiveawayFrom historic greats such as Ali, Bradman and Ruth to modern day icons such as Federer and Bolt, this incredible series identifies the men and women that stand out from history as being truly special, sporting legends. This 9 DVD set, featuring in-depth profiles on 24 legends in sport, and boasting exclusive interviews with the legends themselves this fabulous box set is a must have for any sports fan!

THE uNIVERSE 1 DvD BoX Set to GiveawayFeaturing stunning footage from NASA and packed with state-of the- art CGI graphics, THE UNIVERSE takes viewers on a visually arresting journey across the galaxy to bring the beauty and mysteries of the cosmos a little closer to home. Containing all 76 original episodes over 6 seasons of this epic series, as well as a beautifully written, full colour book “Our Universe: The Solar System”, it makes this an essential user-friendly guide to the mysteries of our planet and its place in the universe.

ICE ROAD TRuCkERS 1 DvD BoX Set to GiveawayCatch-up with the drivers on the most hair-raising roads on the planet. This blockbusting 26 disc set contains ev-ery episode from Seasons 1 to 4 of Ice Road Truckers, as well as action from Season 5. Also included are Seasons 1 & 2 of the hit spin-off series IRT: DEAD-LIEST ROADS.

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pOWERMONkEy DISCOVERy 5 to GiveawayFeaturing a state-of-the-art 3500mAh lithium polymer battery, the sleek Powermonkey Discovery offers users real power on the move. Housed in a stylish full aluminium case with 6 high bright pin point LED lights, from one charge the device will recharge an iPhone twice, standard mobile phones 3-4 times, or give iPods / MP3 players up to an additional 120 hours playtime. It is also compatible with e-readers, Sat Navs, handheld games consoles, portable GPS systems and more. The powermonkey discovery retails at £45.00 and is available from www.powertraveller.com.

T.REx - THE SlIDER 40th anniverSary BoX SetBolan’s work sounds as vibrant now as it did when he was rewriting the pop rulebook during the early 70s and this boxset includes the original album remastered by Tony Visconti, single B-sides, outtakes and previously unreleased material.There’s also a DVD featuring interviews and performances, a hardback coffee-table book, sheet music as well as a facsimile of an original Bolan fan club letter, membership card, rosette and concert ticket. The release will be a worldwide numbered limited edition of 2000 copies.

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WINWIN A COpy OF: Katie Melua - Secret Symphony and The Best of Eva Cassidy.We have 5 of each of these new albums to giveaway.

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COMPETITIONS

TOy STORy MANIA! FOR pS31 to GiveawayThe game joins all of the classic Toy Story characters as Woody, Buzz and others stage their own zany, fun-filled carnival. Toy Story Mania! allows players to participate in familiar, and all-new carnival-inspired shooting galleries, and win prizes in mini-games.

DISNEy pRINCESS: My FAIRyTAlE ADVENTuRE FOR WII1 to GiveawayThis interactive journey, from the globally successful Disney Princess franchise, gives players the chance to find a spell that has been cast over the beloved Princess worlds and use their magic wand to help Cinderella, Rapunzel, Ariel, Belle and Tiana restore peace and bring “happily ever after” back to each kingdom.

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SkyFAllTo celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the iconic British secret agent, James Bond, and the latest movie installment Skyfall, Cartamundi have released a Special Edition range of Playing Cards and Poker Sets including the SKYFALL Compact 150 Chip Poker Set (RRP £34.99). The 007™ Playing Cards and Poker Sets are available from all good toy retailers. www.cartamundi.co.uk

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WIN I4 uNIVERSAl CHARGER 3 to GiveawayTo ease the lives of people who own more than two mobile devices IDAPT has created the i4, a multiple charger capable of saving its users vital time and space. Instead of wrestling with a never-ending array of cords the IDAPT i4 allows us to juice up to four gadgets simultaneously and eliminates wire clutter around the home. This nifty charging solution that can charge up to 4 mobile devices simultaneously and is compatible with over 4,000 mobile electronic devices including the iPhone, iPad, Blackberry, Nintendo DS, PSP, GPS systems, digital cameras, and Bluetooth products.

HOW TO ENTER To enter any of the competitions tell us: What date is Boxing Day? Send your answer via email to competitions@fusedmagazine.com along with your name, address, telephone number and date of birth. Please put the name of the competition in the subject box. Only one email per competition. Deadline for entry to all competitions is the 17th December.

WIN A FESTIVE FIlM NIGHT IN WITH GAllO FIlM CluB Gallo Family Vineyards, makers of the nation’s much loved wine, has created the Gallo Film Club. Movie fans can join the online club at www.gallofamily.co.uk/filmclub and access all the tools to enjoy a slice of the big screen with friends and recreate their favourite blockbuster at home for the ultimate film-themed night-in. We have a festive Gallo Film Club pack which includes a case of Gallo White Grenache, DVDs and popcorn.

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COMPETITIONS

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WIN TICKETS TO CLOTHES SHOW LIVE

Win the ultimate fashion and beauty experience with Clothes Show Live 2012, the UK’s biggest fashion and beauty event! Clothes Show Live is giving FIVE lucky AREA readers the chance to win tickets to the show taking place from 7 – 11 December at NEC Birmingham.

The event features non-stop catwalks shows, hundreds of high-street, vintage and designer brands to shop from, hair and beauty demonstrations, industry talks by leading experts and appearances by some of the UK’s favourite celebrities – including Brit designer Henry Holland, stylist to the stars Grace Woodward and Britain and Ireland’s Next Top Model judge Charlie Speed.

Fronted by British model Daisy Lowe the event is set to be the biggest, most fashionable and interactive to date.

The prize includes a seat in the spectacular Suzuki Fashion Theatre featuring over 40 handpicked models and dancers and some of the best of British fashion.

QuESTIONJust tell us what are the names of Daisy Lowe’s equally famous parents?

Send your answer along with your name, address and telephone number to: competitions@fusedmagazine.com.Please put CLOTHES SHOW in the Subject Box.

Winners will be notified on the 1st December.

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SATURDAY 1 DECEMBER

EVENTBBC GOOD FOOD SHOW WINTER The NEC, 9am

EVENTSIlVER CuFFlINkS MAkING ClASSThe Quarterworkshop10.30am

ARTFAMIly SATuRDAyS Ikon Gallery1.00pm

THEATREJAMES & THE GIANT pEACHThe Old Rep Theatre2.30pm

DANCEBRB -CINDEREllABirmingham Hippodrome2.30pm & 7.30pm

THEATRETHE WIND IN THE WIllOWS Crescent Theatre2.30pm & 7.30pm

Hyde8.00pm CluB JuQEBOx Rose Villa Tavern8.00pm CluB RETROBATESVertu8.00pm CluB VERTIGOThe Victoria9.00pm

COMEDySEAN MEO, SEAN pERCIVAl, TREVOR CROOk, JOHNNy CANDONHighlight9.00pm CluB CREAM 20TH ANNIVERSARy TOuRRainbow 9.00pm

CluBFlASHBACk:

THEATRETHE EMpEROR’S NEW ClOTHES mac2.30pm & 7.30pm

THEATRE COlDER THAN HERECrescent Theatre2.45pm CluB THE FOx SATuRDAy NIGHT pARTyThe Fox Bar7.00pm

MuSICMARTyR DE MONA, MAD HATTERThe End7.00pm

MuSICNEDS ATOMIC DuSTBIN, CuD, FRANk & WAlTERS, DJ STEVE lAMACQCivic Hall7pm

MuSICSHE SCREAMS MuRDER, lIGHT-FIRE

O2 Academy 37.00pm COMEDyNEIl DElAMERE, kElly kINGHAM, ROGER MONkHOuSE, ANDy ROBINSONGlee Club7.30pm MuSICA WINTERS NIGHT WITH GOODNIGHT lENINBirmingham Cathedral7.30pm MuSICBEAST AT 30Bramall Music Building7.30pm

MuSICSCOTT MATTHEWSTown Hall8.00pm CluBDR JEkyll’S pOTION The Jekyll and

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rTHE ANNuAl REuNION 2012HMV Institute9.00pm

MuSICGATEAu FuNk Le Truc Cafe9.00pm

MuSICMATTHEW DEARHare & Hounds9.00pm COMEDykANE BROWN, JOHN RyAN, kOJOJongleurs Comedy Club9.00pm

CluBFACE: 2.31Rainbow, 9pm

CluBSuMOSOuND-SySTEM’S END OF yEAR pARTyHare & Hounds9.00pm

CluBpAul OAkENFIElDGatecrasher10.00pm

SUNDAY 2 DECEMBER

EVENTBBC GOOD FOOD SHOW WINTERThe NEC9.30am MuSIC SOul SuNDAyThe Lord Clifden12.00pm DANCE BRB - CINDEREllABirmingham Hippodrome1.00pm

MuSICSuNDAy JAzz The Old Joint Stock1.00pm MuSICFOlk @ ORT Ort Cafe2.00pm EVENTJ.W. WATER-HOuSE AND THE TEMpESTuOuS lOVElINESS OF TERRORBirmingham Mu-seum & Art Gallery2.00pm

MuSICBEAST AT 30Bramall Music Building2.00pm MuSICTHE SuNFlOW-ER SESSIONSSunflower Lounge6.00pm MuSICMISS MAy IO2 Academy 27.00pm

MuSICTHE RAVEONETTES, HOly ESQuEHMV Institute7.00pm

MuSICJACk MARTEllO The Yardbird7.00pm

MuSICCHIll OuTThe Fox Bar7.00pm MuSICBEllA DIEM, AARRON ARMSTRONG-

CRADDOCk Adam And Eve7.00pm MuSICAll THE yOuNGO2 Academy 37.00pm CluBCluB BEBOpHare & Hounds8.00pm

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MONDAY 3 DECEMBER

THEATREJAMES & THE GIANT pEACHThe Old Rep Theatre10.00am & 1.30pm MuSICCANDlElIT CONCERTSt. Martin in the Bull Ring6.30pm

MuSICBEN FOlDS FIVEO2 Academy 27.00pm

MuSICMOTOWN MONDAyThe Lord Clifden7.00pm

MuSICMARTHA WAINWRIGHTHMV Institute7.00pm MuSIC THAT SuNDAy FEElINGO2 Academy 37.00pm

SpOkEN WORDMARk THOMAS:

THEATRE THE WIND IN THE WIllOWS Crescent Theatre7.00pm MuSICElECTRIC SIx 10TH ANNIVER-SARy TOuRO2 Academy 27.00pm MuSIC yARDBIRD ACOuSTIC SESSIONThe Yardbird7.00pm

MuSICOuR DAyS WASTED Adam And Eve7.00pm ARTDRINk AND DOODlE - pAT kAV lIFE DRAWING!Patrick Kavannagh Bar7.00pm DANCEBRB - CINDEREllABirmingham

BRAVO FIGAROmac7.30pm

MuSIC WIlly MASONGlee Club7.30pm

MuSICJAM JAH MONDAySThe Bulls Head9.00pm

TUESDAY 4 DECEMBER

THEATREJAMES & THE GIANT pEACHThe Old Rep Theatre10.00am & 1.30pm

SpOkEN WORD MARk THOMAS: BRAVO FIGAROmac6.00pm

MuSICTWENTy TWENTy, Fu-TuREpROOF & THE pROMISEHMV Institute6.00pm

EVENTpRODuCERS FORuM yulE-TIDE SOCIAlmac, 6.00pm MuSICOpEN ACOuSTIC SESSIONCafé Blend6.30pm COMEDyTHE lAuGHING SOlE COMEDy CluBThe British Oak7.00pm

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Hippodrome7.30pm MuSICSWAMpMEATSunflower Lounge8.00pm MuSIC ACOuSTIC CluB The Bulls Head8.00pm CluB90’S NIGHTRainbow 10.00pm

WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER

THEATREJAMES & THE GIANT pEACHThe Old Rep Theatre10am & 1.30pm

EVENTCONSERVATION TOuR OF THE STAFFORD-SHIRE HOARDBirmingham Mu-seum & Art Gallery12.30pm

DANCETEA DANCEThe Public, 1.00pm

DANCEBRB - CINDEREllABirmingham Hippodrome2.00pm & 7.30PM

THEATRETHE WIND IN THE WIllOWSCrescent Theatre2.30pm

COMEDyTHE lAuGHING SOlE COMEDy CluBThe Public, 7pm

MuSICTHE VIEWO2 Academy 27.00pm

COMEDyJOSIE lONG - ROMANCE & ADVENTuREThe Slade Rooms7pm SpOkEN WORDMARk THOMAS: BRAVO FIGAROmac7.30pm EVENT NITRO CIRCuS lIVEThe NIA8.00pm

MuSICTHE lIkEly lADSSunflower Lounge8.00pm

MuSICHOpE AND SOCIAlHare & Hounds8.00pm

THURSDAY 6 DECEMBER

THEATREJAMES & THE GIANT pEACHThe Old Rep Theatre10.00am & 1.30pm THEATRE THE WIND IN THE WIllOWSCrescent Theatre10.15am & 2.30pm EVENT ED DOOlAN’S CHRISTMAS SHOWSymphony Hall11.00am MuSICANDy ISHERWOOD ENSEMBlE Bramall Music Building5.00pm

MuSICHER DARk EMBRACEO2 Academy 36.30pm MuSICBAND OF SkullS, FOlkSHMV Institute7.00pm

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COMEDy CARl DONNEl-ly, JIM TAVARE, DAN NIGHTIN-GAlE: EARly SHOWGlee Club7.00pm & 8.15pm

COMEDyJACk DEECivic Hall7pm

MuSICSTEAlING SHEEpHare & Hounds7.00pm

MuSICRED FANG, El CACOHMV Institute7.00pm

MuSIC ANAAl NATHRA-kH, MORGuEOR-Gy, NO REAlITyThe Flapper7.00pm

DANCEBRB - CINDEREllABirmingham Hippodrome7.30pm

MuSICSCROOBIuS pIpHMV Institute6.30pm

MuSICTHE GlITTER BANDHMV Institute6.30pm EVENTMuRDER MyS-TERy EVENINGHighbury Hall7.00pm COMEDy CARl DONNEl-ly, JIM TAVARE, pAul THORNE: EARly SHOWGlee Club7pm & 8.15pm

COMEDyRHOD GIlBERTCivic Hall7pm

COMEDyupFRONT COM-EDy: FElICITy ETHNICThe Drum7.00pm MuSICSNOOTy BOBS,

MuSICuNIVERSITy MuSIC SOCIETy BIG BANDBramall Music Building7.30pm

MuSICSOul CAFESunflower Lounge8.00pm MuSIC MOSElElE Prince of Wales8.00pm MuSICMAx TOMlINSON The Yardbird8.00pm CluBMANHATTAN lOFTThe Victoria9.00pm

COMEDyGEOFF NOR-COTT, TONy HENDRIkS, JEFF INNOCENTJongleurs Comedy Club9.00pm

FRIDAY 7 DECEMBER

EVENTClOTHES SHOW lIVE 2012The NEC9.00am

THEATREJAMES & THE GIANT pEACHThe Old Rep Theatre10.00am & 1.30pm

THEATRETHE WIND IN THE WIllOWSCrescent Theatre10.15am & 2.30pm MuSIC luNCHTIME GuI-TAR CONCERTBirmingham Mu-seum & Art Gallery1.00pm EVENT ORIGINS OF MIDDlE-EARTH, A WINTER WAlkSarehole Mill1.00pm

MuSIC WAkA FlOCkA FlAMEHMV Institute6.30pm

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AlEx AITkEN, lAuREN pRykESunflower Lounge7.00pm

MuSICIllFlOWER, INFRACTOR, MAlANDRA, ONE lIFE lEFTO2 Academy 37.00pm DANCEBRB - CINDEREllABirmingham Hippodrome7.30pm

CluBREMEDyThe Jekyll and Hyde, 7.30pm

MuSICMuMFORD & SONSLG Arena7.30pm

MuSICBIRMINGHAM CONTEMpO-RARy MuSIC GROupBramall Music Building7.30pm

EVENTJEFF WAyNE’S MuSICAl VER-SION OF THE WAR OF THE WORlDSThe NIA8.00pm

COMEDykIll FOR A SEATmac8.00pm

MuSIC luCHA lIBREBodega Bar8.00pm COMEDyBARBARA NICE - CHRISTMAS CRACkERmac8.30pm

COMEDy SEAN pERCIVAl, TANyAlEE DAVIS, STuART GOlDSMITH, DAVID lONGlEyHighlight9.00pm

COMEDyGEOFF NOR-COTT, TONy

HENDRIkS, JEFF INNOCENTJongleurs Comedy Club9.00pm

SATURDAY 8 DECEMBER

EVENTClOTHES SHOW lIVE 2012The NEC9.00am WORkSHOpSIlVER EARRINGS MAkING ClASSThe Quarterworkshop10.00am

WORkSHOpBEAuTIFul BANGlES - ADulT WORkSHOpMuseum of the Jewellery Quarter1pm

THEATRE JAMES & THE GIANT pEACHThe Old Rep Theatre2.30pm

DANCEBRB - CINDEREllABirmingham Hippodrome2.30pm & 7.30pm

THEATRETHE WIND IN

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THE WIllOWSCrescent Theatre2.30pm & 7.30pm MuSICSEBASTIEN TEllIERHMV Institute6.30pm CluBTHE FOx SATuRDAy NIGHT pARTyThe Fox Bar7.00pm MuSICTHE 1975HMV Institute7.00pm

MuSIC 6Ix FOOT FAll, AS NIGHT DIES, uNDER BlACk-ENED SkIES, BlACk TOOTH GRINThe Flapper7.45pm EVENTRuBy MAIHEM BuRlESQuE CHRISTMAS SpECIAlThe Public8.00pm

SUNDAY 9 DECEMBER

EVENTClOTHES SHOW lIVE 2012 The NEC9.00am MuSICSOul SuNDAyThe Lord Clifden12.00pm

DANCEBRB - CINDEREllABirmingham Hippodrome1.00pm

MuSICSuNDAy JAzz The Old Joint Stock1.00pm MuSICFOlk @ ORTOrt Cafe2.00pm

EVENTTOlkIEN’S BIRMINGHAMBirmingham Museum & Art Gallery3.00pm MuSICORBITAl, NA-THAN FAkE

CluBDR JEkyll’S pOTION The Jekyll and Hyde, 8.00pm CluBJuQEBOx Rose Villa Tavern8.00pm

COMEDy CARl DONNEl-ly, JIM TAVARE, pAul THORNEGlee Club, 8.15pm MuSICCRAIG CHARlESHare & Hounds9.00pm CluBVERTIGOThe Victoria9.00pm CluBHIGH FIDElITyHare & Hounds9.00pm

COMEDySEAN pERCIVAl, TANyAlEE DAVIS, STuART GOlDSMITH, DA-VID lONGlEyHighlight, 9pm

MuSICGATEAu FuNkLe Truc Cafe9.00pm

EVENTTHE HARDCORE AWARDS 2012O2 Academy 29.00pm

COMEDyGEOFF NOR-COTT, TONy HENDRIkS, JEFF INNOCENTJongleurs Comedy Club9.00pm

CluBFACE: WAFFRainbow 9.00pm CluB EC lECTRIC-ITy: RuSkO & MADEONHMV Institute10.00pm

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O2 Academy 27.00pm

CluBCHIll OuTThe Fox Bar7.00pm

MuSICRICH ROBINSONHMV Institute7.00pm MuSICEMERGING ICONS lIVEO2 Academy 37.00pm

MuSICCERyS By CANDlElIGHTGlee Club7.30pm CluBCluB BEBOpHare & Hounds8.00pm

MuSICTHE BlACk kEyS, THE MACCABEESThe NIA8.00pm

MONDAY 10 DECEMBER

EVENTClOTHES SHOW lIVE 2012The NEC9.00am

THEATREJAMES & THE GIANT pEACHThe Old Rep Theatre10.00am & 1.30pm

THEATRETHE WIND IN THE WIllOWSCrescent Theatre10.15am & 2.30pm MuSICADMIRAl FAllOWHMV Institute7.00pm

MuSICMOTOWN MONDAyThe Lord Clifden7.00pm MuSICBETHAN AND THE MORGANS, lukE ROuND Adam And Eve7.00pm

MuSIC CHRISTMAS WITH THE RAT pACkNew Alexandra Theatre7.30pm FIlM FIluM NIGHTThe Spotted Dog7.30pm

MuSICJAM JAH MONDAySThe Bulls Head9.00pm

TUESDAY 11 DECEMBER

EVENTClOTHES SHOW lIVE 2012 The NEC9.00am

THEATREJAMES & THE GIANT pEACHThe Old Rep Theatre10am & 1.30pm THEATRETHE WIND IN THE WIllOWSCrescent Theatre10.15am & 2.30pm MuSICTHIN lIzzy, THE TREATMENT & FMHMV Institute7.00pm

MuSICTHE HIVESO2 Academy 27.00pm MuSICTHE RASMuS, THE DIRTy yOuTHO2 Academy 27.00pm

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MuSICyARDBIRD ACOuSTIC SESSIONThe Yardbird7.00pm MuSICTHE FAMOuS ClASSThe End7.00pm

MuSIClukE CONCAN-NON, ONE SIxTH OF TOMMyO2 Academy 37.00pm ART DRINk AND DOODlE - pAT kAV lIFE DRAW-ING!Patrick Kavannagh Bar7.00pm MuSIC CHRISTMAS WITH THE RAT pACkNew Alexandra Theatre7.30pm

MuSICSWAMpMEAT

MuSIC SIMON FRIEND’S SEISMIC SuRVEyHare & Hounds7.30pm CluB TANTRuMS DJSSunflower Lounge8.00pm MuSICNuRVRAx JAM: THE JOHN MORRIS TRIO The Yardbird8.00pm

Sunflower Lounge8.00pm

MuSICACOuSTIC CluBThe Bulls Head8.00pm

COMEDyDAVE JOHNS, JuNIOR SIMp-SON, kAREN BAylEy, THE NOISE NExT DOORHighlight9pm

CluB90’S NIGHTRainbow 10.00pm

WEDNESDAY 12 DECEMBER

THEATREJAMES & THE GIANT pEACHThe Old Rep10am & 1.30pm

THEATRETHE WIND IN THE WIllOWSCrescent Theatre10.15am & 2.30pm MuSICCHRISTMAS WITH THE RAT pACkNew Alexandra Theatre2.30pm & 7.30pm

COMEDy SIMON B COTTER, CHARlIE BAkERGlee Club7.00pm & 8.15pm MuSICCHARlIE lANk-ESTER AND THE MOJO kIllERSO2 Academy 37.00pm MuSICTHE OTHER TRIBEHare & Hounds7pm

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THURSDAY 13 DECEMBER

THEATREJAMES & THE GIANT pEACHThe Old Rep Theatre10.00am & 1.30pm

THEATRETHE WIND IN THE WIllOWSCrescent Theatre10.15am & 2.30pm

MuSIC OuR DySTOpIA, JESTERO2 Academy 36.30pm MuSICTHE DAMNEDO2 Academy 27.00pm COMEDySIMON B COT-TER, CHARlIE BAkER Glee Club7.00pm & 8.15pm MuSIC VERy CHERRy ACOuSTIC OpEN MIC NIGHTCherry Red Cafe Bar7.00pm

MuSICMADNESSLG Arena7.30pm MuSICSOul CAFESunflower Lounge8.00pm

MuSICFESTIVE luCHABodega Bar8.00pm MuSICJAzz JuICE pRESENTS WIll RuMNEy The Yardbird8.00pm CluB MANHATTAN lOFTThe Victoria9.00pm COMEDy JOHN RyAN, GORDON SOuTHERN, RuDI lICk-WOODJongleurs Comedy Club9.00pm

FRIDAY 14 DECEMBER

THEATREJAMES & THE GIANT pEACHThe Old Rep Theatre10.00am & 1.30pm COMEDySIMON B COT-TER, CHARlIE BAkERLunchtime ShowGlee Club12.30pm COMEDyTHE WIND IN THE WIllOWS Crescent Theatre2.30pm & 7.30pm MuSICAlI CAMpBEllO2 Academy 26.00pm

MuSICkITTEN pyRAMID, IDlE plAyTHINGS, ExIlE84, zIM zIMO2 Academy 36.30pm

COMEDySIMON B COTTER, CHARlIE BAkERGlee Club

7pm & 8.15pm CluBREMEDyThe Jekyll and Hyde7.30pm

MuSICMIDNIGHT BONFIRESThe Flapper7.45pm MuSIC JACkMASTERHare & Hounds8.00pm COMEDyTREVOR CROOk, kAREN BAylEy, MICk FERRy, THE NOISE NExT DOORHighlight9.00pm

COMEDyJOHN RyAN, GORDON SOuTHERN, RuDI lICkWOODJongleurs Comedy Club9.00pm

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SATURDAY 15 DECEMBER

MuSICDAppyO2 Academy 26.00pm

MuSICSpEECH DEBEllEHMV Institute6.30pm

COMEDySIMON B COTTER, CHARlIE BAkER, GEOFF NORCOTTGlee Club7.00pm MuSICAlTTIA, SISTER SHOTGuNO2 Academy 37.00pm

MuSICTHE lINESCivic Hall 7pm

MuSICCASTROVAlVA, ExIT INTERNATIONAlSunflower Lounge7.00pm

SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER

MuSICSOul SuNDAyThe Lord Clifden12.00pm THEATREROBINSON CRuSOE AND THE CARIBBEAN pIRATESBirmingham Hippodrome1.00pm & 5.15pm MuSICSuNDAy JAzzThe Old Joint Stock1.00pm MuSIC FOlk @ ORT Ort Cafe2.00pm MuSICEllIE GOulDINGO2 Academy 27.00pm MuSIC CHRIS TyEKitchen Garden Cafe, 7.00pm

THEATREROBINSON CRuSOE AND THE CARIBBEAN pIRATESBirmingham Hippodrome7.15pm

THEATRETHE WIND IN THE WIllOWS Crescent Theatre7.30pm CluB DR JEkyll’S pOTION The Jekyll and Hyde8.00pm CluBJuQEBOx Rose Villa Tavern8.00pm

COMEDyTREVOR CROOk, kAREN BAylEy, MICk FERRy, THE NOISE NExT DOORHighlight, 9.00pm

MuSICGATEAu FuNk Le Truc Cafe9.00pm

COMEDyJOHN RyAN, GORDON SOuTHERN, RuDI lICkWOODJongleurs Comedy Club9.00pm

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MuSICINSOlITO, CONDuITO2 Academy 37.00pm

COMEDyMARCuS BRIGSTOCkEWulfrun Hall7pm

MuSICTHE BOOTlEG BEATlESThe NIA7.30pm

MuSICTIM BuRGESSGlee Club7.30pm CluB CluB BEBOpHare & Hounds8.00pm

MONDAY 17 DECEMBER

THEATREJAMES & THE GIANT pEACHThe Old Rep Theatre10.00am & 1.30pm

THEATRETHE WIND IN THE WIllOWSCrescent Theatre10.15am & 2.30pm MuSICluNCHTIME ORGAN CONCERTSymphony Hall1.00pm MuSIC MOTOWN MONDAyThe Lord Clifden7.00pm THEATRE DOlly pARTON’S 9 TO 5: THE MuSICAlNew Alexandra Theatre7.30pm

TUESDAY 18 DECEMBER

THEATREJAMES & THE GIANT pEACHThe Old Rep Theatre10.00am & 1.30pm THEATRETHE WIND IN THE WIllOWSCrescent Theatre10.15am & 2.30pm

THEATRE ROBINSON CRuSOE AND THE CARIBBEAN pIRATESBirmingham Hippodrome2.30pm & 7.15pm MuSICOpEN ACOuSTIC SESSIONCafé Blend6.30pm

COMEDyMARk OlVER, SEAN COllINS, GAVIN WEBSTERGlee Club7.00pm & 8.15pm

MuSICyARDBIRD ACOuSTIC

SESSIONThe Yardbird7.00pm MuSICNATIVESO2 Academy 37.00pm

ARTDRINk AND DOODlE - pAT kAV lIFE DRAWING!Patrick Kavannagh Bar7.00pm

THEATREDOlly pARTON’S 9 TO 5: THE MuSICAlNew Alexandra Theatre7.30pm MuSIC ACOuSTIC CluB The Bulls Head8.00pm

COMEDyBARBARA NICE’S COuNTDOWN TO CHRISTMASThe Old Joint Stock8.00pm

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WEDNESDAY 19 DECEMBER

THEATREJAMES & THE GIANT pEACHThe Old Rep Theatre10.00am & 1.30pm

THEATRETHE WIND IN THE WIllOWSCrescent Theatre10.15am & 2.30pm

DANCETEA DANCEThe Public1.00pm

THEATREROBINSON CRuSOE AND THE CARIBBEAN pIRATESBirmingham Hippodrome2.30pm & 7.15pm

THEATREDOllypARTON’S 9 TO 5: THE MuSICAlNew Alexandra Theatre2.30pm & 7.30pm

COMEDyMARk OlVER, SEAN COllINS, GAVIN WEBSTER

COMEDy MARk OlVER, SEAN COllINS, THE RAyMOND & MR TIMpkINS REVuEGlee Club7pm & 8.15pm

MuSICVERy CHERRy ACOuSTIC OpEN MIC NIGHTCherry Red Cafe Bar 7.00pm

MuSIC JOOlS HOllAND & HIS RHyTHM & BluES ORCHESTRASymphony Hall7.30pm

THEATREDOlly pARTON’S 9 TO 5: THE MuSICAlNew Alexandra Theatre7.30pm

MuSICTHE TOy HEARTS

Glee Club7.00pm & 8.15pm MuSICSTEREOpHON-ICS, GAz COOMBESO2 Academy 27.00pm

MuSICMOlOTOV JukEBOxHare & Hounds7.30pm COMEDyBARBARA NICE’S COuNTDOWN TO CHRISTMASThe Old Joint Stock8.00pm

COMEDy GEOFF BOyz, STEVE GRIBBIN, kAREN BAylEy, DAVID lONGlEyHighlight9.00pm

THURSDAY 20 DECEMBER

THEATREJAMES & THE GIANT pEACHThe Old Rep Theatre10.00am & 1.30pm

THEATRETHE WIND IN THE WIllOWS Crescent Theatre10.15am & 2.30pm

THEATREROBINSON CRuSOE AND THE CARIBBEAN pIRATESBirmingham Hippodrome2.30pm & 7.15pm MuSICFOlk FOR FREE: CHARlOTTE CARpENTERSymphony Hall5.30pm

MuSICBREAkFAST AT CHARlIES, THE REGulARS, pRETENTIOuS ClASSO2 Academy 36.30pm

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Hare & Hounds7.30pm MuSIC THE DESTROyERS CHRISTMAS pARTyPrince of Wales7.30pm MuSIC SOul CAFESunflower Lounge8.00pm

MuSICMOSElElE Prince of Wales8.00pm MuSICFESTIVE luCHABodega Bar8.00pm

MuSICJAzz JuICE pRESENTS TOM FORDThe Yardbird8.00pm

COMEDyBARBARA NICE’S COuNTDOWN TO CHRISTMASThe Old Joint

Stock8.00pm

MuSICTROuMACAHare & Hounds8.00pm COMEDyMOSTly COMEDyOrt Cafe8.30pm

CluBMANHATTAN lOFTThe Victoria9.00pm

COMEDykANE BROWN, AlEx BOARDMAN, JuNIOR SIMpSONJongleurs Comedy Club9.00pm

FRIDAY 21 DECEMBER

COMEDyMARk OlVER, SEAN COllINS, THE RAyMOND & MR TIMpkINS REVuE Lunchtime ShowGlee Club12.30pm

MuSICCAll ATlANTIS, JOHNNy GET THE GuN, lOTTIE pHAzEy O2 Academy 37.00pm FIlMFIlM NIGHTUrban Coffee Company7.00pm THEATRE THE WIND IN THE WIllOWS Crescent Theatre7.30pm

CluBREMEDyThe Jekyll and Hyde7.30pm

COMEDyMARk OlVER, SEAN COllINS,

THE RAyMOND & MR TIMpkINS REVuEGlee Club7.30pm & 8.15pm MuSIC WRAppED IN plASTICThe Flapper7.45pm COMEDy BARBARA NICE’S COuNTDOWN TO CHRISTMASThe Old Joint Stock8.30pm COMEDy GEOFF BOyz, GEORGE EGG, kAREN BAylEyHighlight9.00pm COMEDykANE BROWN, AlEx BOARD-MAN, JuNIOR SIMpSONJongleurs Comedy Club9.00pm

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SATURDAY 22 DECEMBER

WORkSHOpSIlVER EARRINGS MAkING ClASSThe Quarterworkshop10.00am

THEATRETHE GRuFFAlO’S CHIlDTown Hall1.30pm & 3.30pm THEATRE ROBINSON CRuSOE AND THE CARIBBEAN pIRATESBirmingham Hippodrome2.30pm & 7.15pm

THEATREJAMES & THE GIANT pEACHThe Old Rep Theatre2.30pm & 6.30pm

THEATREDOlly pARTON’S 9 TO 5: THE MuSICAlNew Alexandra Theatre2.30pm & 7.30pm

COMEDyGEOFF BOyz, GEORGE EGG, kAREN BAylEyHighlight9.00pm

MuSICGATEAu FuNk Le Truc Cafe9.00pm

COMEDykANE BROWN, AlEx BOARD-MAN, JuNIOR SIMpSONJongleurs Comedy Club9.00pm

THEATRETHE WIND IN THE WIllOWSCrescent Theatre2.30pm & 7.30pm THEATREDICk WHITTINGTONThe Public2.30pm

COMEDy MARk OlVER, SEAN COllINS, THE RAyMOND & MR TIMpkINS REVuEGlee Club7.00pm

MuSICkIllTIMERS, ElEVENMIlES-BETWEEN, SOuNDS lIkE SpACEThe End7.00pm MuSICCOlD FIElDS, BROkEN WITT REBElSO2 Academy 37.00pm

MuSICpEACERainbow7.00pm

MuSICTHE CROOkED EMpIRE, THE ONE TWOSThe Flapper7.30pm

CluBDR JEkyll’S pOTIONThe Jekyll and Hyde8.00pm CluBJuQEBOxRose Villa Tavern8.00pm

COMEDyBARBARA NICE’S COuNT-DOWN TO CHRISTMASThe Old Joint Stock8.00pm

CluBCluB A GO-GO 60’S CluB NIGHTHare & Hounds9.00pm

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SUNDAY 23 DECEMBER

THEATRETHE GRuFFAlO’S CHIlDTown Hall11.00am & 1.30pm MuSICSOul SuNDAyThe Lord Clifden12.00pm THEATRE ROBINSON CRuSOE AND THE CARIBBEAN pIRATESBirmingham Hippodrome1.00pm & 5.15pm MuSICSuNDAy JAzz The Old Joint Stock1.00pm MuSIC FOlk @ ORT FREEOrt Cafe2.00pm MuSICJAzzIFuNk CHRISTMASHare & Hounds3.00pm

COMEDyMARk OlVER, SEAN COllINSGlee Club6.45pm

MuSICTIpITINAMetro Bar And Grill7.00pm CluBCluB BEBOpHare & Hounds8.00pm

MONDAY 24 DECEMBER

THEATRETHE GRuFFAlO’S CHIlDTown Hall11.00am & 1.30pm THEATRE ROBINSON CRuSOE AND THE CARIBBEAN pIRATESBirmingham Hippodrome1.00pm & 5.15pm THEATRE JAMES & THE GIANT pEACHThe Old Rep Theatre2.30pm THEATRE DOlly pARTON’S 9 TO 5: THE MuSICAlNew Alexandra Theatre2.30pm THEATRETHE WIND IN THE WIllOWS Crescent Theatre2.30pm

TUESDAY 25 DECEMBER

rMERRy CHRISTMASEVERyONE

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WEDNESDAY 26 DECEMBER

THEATREROBINSON CRuSOE AND THE CARIBBEAN pIRATESBirmingham Hippodrome2.30pm & 7.15pm THEATRETHE WIND IN THE WIllOWS Crescent Theatre2.30pm & 7.30pm

COMEDyREAl DEAl COMEDy JAMJongleurs Comedy Club7.00pm MuSICNuRVRAx JAM: THE JOHN MORRIS TRIO The Yardbird8.00pm CluBGATECRASHER BIRMINGHAM BOxING DAy SpECIAlGatecrasher9.00pm

FRIDAY 28 DECEMBER

THEATRETHE GRuFFAlO’S CHIlDTown Hall11am & 1.30pm

THEATRE ROBINSON CRuSOE AND THE CARIBBEAN pIRATESBirmingham Hippodrome2.30pm & 7.15pm THEATRE JAMES & THE GIANT pEACHThe Old Rep Theatre2.30pm THEATREDOlly pARTON’S 9 TO 5: THE MuSICAlNew Alexandra Theatre2.30pm & 7.30pm THEATRETHE WIND IN THE WIllOWS SuITABlECrescent Theatre2.30pm & 7.30pm

THURSDAY 27 DECEMBER

THEATRETHE GRuFFAlO’S CHIlDTown Hall11.00am & 1.30pm

THEATRE ROBINSON CRuSOE AND THE CARIBBEAN pIRATESBirmingham Hippodrome2.30pm & 7.15pm THEATREJAMES & THE GIANT pEACHThe Old Rep Theatre2.30pm THEATREDOlly pARTON’S 9 TO 5: THE MuSICAlNew Alexandra Theatre2.30pm & 7.30pm THEATRETHE WIND IN THE WIllOWSCrescent Theatre2.30pm & 7.30pm SpOkEN WORDBOOk CluB

Urban Coffee Company6.00pm

MuSIC VERy CHERRy ACOuSTIC OpEN MIC NIGHT Cherry Red Cafe Bar7.00pm COMEDy FOGHORN IM-pROV: CHRIST-MAS CRACkER COMpETITIONThe Old Joint Stock8.00pm CluBMANHATTAN lOFTThe Victoria9.00pm MuSICDEl CAMINOThe Jam House9.00pm

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COMEDySEAN COllINS, ROB DEERING, ANDy ROBINSONGlee Club7.00pm CluBREMEDyThe Jekyll and Hyde7.30pm

MuSICyOuNG pECulIAR, lOVElESS luCkThe Flapper7.45pm MuSICJAzz @ ORT FREEOrt Cafe8.00pm CluBHyTAl BOSRAH, MAASAI WARRIOR, kIlOWATT SySTEMSRainbow10.00pm

SATURDAY 29 DECEMBER

THEATRETHE GRuFFAlO’S CHIlDTown Hall11.00am & 1.30pm

THEATRE ROBINSON CRuSOE AND THE CARIBBEAN pIRATESBirmingham Hippodrome2.30pm & 7.15pm THEATREJAMES & THE GIANT pEACHThe Old Rep Theatre2.30pm THEATREDOlly pARTON’S 9 TO 5: THE MuSICAlNew Alexandra Theatre2.30pm & 7.30pm

THEATRE THE WIND IN THE WIllOWSCrescent Theatre2.30pm & 7.30pm

COMEDySEAN COllINS, JOJO SMITH, SEAN pERCIVAlGlee Club7.00pm MuSIC DR JEkyll’S pOTIONThe Jekyll and Hyde8.00pm

CluBJuQEBOx Rose Villa Tavern8.00pm MuSICHuSTlE! VII: SHATTER EFFECTHare & Hounds8.00pm

MuSIC JAM HOTTThe Bulls Head9.00pm MuSICGATEAu FuNk Le Truc Cafe9.00pm COMEDyRHODRI RHyS, WAyNE DEAkIN,

BRIAN HIGGINSJongleurs Comedy Club9.00pm MuSICHIGH FIDElITyHare & Hounds9.00pm

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SUNDAY 30 DECEMBER

THEATRETHE GRuFFAlO’S CHIlDTown Hall11.00am & 1.30pm MuSICSOul SuNDAyThe Lord Clifden12.00pm THEATREROBINSON CRuSOE AND THE CARIBBEAN pIRATESBirmingham Hippodrome1.00pm & 5.15pm MuSICSuNDAy JAzz The Old Joint Stock1.00pm

MuSIC FOlk @ ORT FREEOrt Cafe2.00pm THEATRETHE WIND IN THE WIllOWS Crescent Theatre2.30pm

THEATRE THE FOuR SEASONS By CANDlElIGHTSymphony Hall2.30pm

MuSIC RAMONASAdam And Eve7.00pm COMEDyDESI CENTRAl COMEDy SHOWGlee Club7.00pm MuSIC CluB BEBOpHare & Hounds8.00pm

MONDAY 31 DECEMBER

THEATRE THE GRuFFAlO’S CHIlDTown Hall11.00am & 1.30pm THEATREROBINSON CRuSOE AND THE CARIBBEAN pIRATESBirmingham Hippodrome1.00pm & 5.15pm THEATRE JAMES & THE GIANT pEACHThe Old Rep Theatre2.30pm THEATREDOlly pARTON’S 9 TO 5: THE MuSICAlNew Alexandra Theatre2.30pm MuSIC NyE WITH THE SuBTERRA-NEANSThe Jam House6.00pm

COMEDyJIM TAVARE, SEAN COllINS, ANDy ROBINSONGlee Club7.00pm EVENT NyE: ROARING 20’S BuRlESQuE SOIRéEAnnexe7.00pm MuSICTIpITINAMalmaison7.00pm MuSICSTEVE AJAOPrince of Wales7.30pm CluB zOMBIE CluB NEW yEARS EVE SpECIAlThe End8.00pm

EVENTNEW yEARS EVE pARTyKitchen Garden Cafe8.00pm

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COMEDyCOMEDy lIVE ON NEW yEARS EVEHighlight8.30pm CluBRAVEOlOGy & JuNGlE GATHERINGGibb Street Warehouse9.00pm CluBNEW yEARS EVE 2012/13: THE COuNTDOWNQ Club9.00pm CluB pROpAGANDA’S NEW yEAR’S EVE pARTy ANIMAlO2 Academy 29.00pm CluBGATECRASHER NEW yEARS EVE SpECIAlGatecrasher9.00pm COMEDyMANDy kNIGHT, SEAN pERCIVAl,

ROGuE 5, DAl-ISO CHApONDAJongleurs Comedy Club9.00pm CluBNEW yEARS EVE @ HARE & HOuNDSHare & Hounds9.00pm

CluBNEW yEARS EVE BlAST OFF & CHEEky MON-kEy CluBNIGHTCivic Hall9pm

CluBNEW yEARS EVE @ BullS HEADThe Bulls Head9.00pm CluBEC lECTRICITy NEW yEARS EVEHMV Institute9.00pm

CluB NEW yEAR’S EVE GAlASymphony Hall9.30pm

CluBSuBCulTuRE: NyE 2012The Ballroom Birmingham9.30pm CluBVERTuAl SOul NyE pARTyVertu 10.00pm

HAppy NEW yEAR

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VENuE DIRECTORyMuSIC VENuES

ACTRESS & BISHOp36, Ludgate Hill, B3 1EH0121 236 7426

BIRMINGHAM BAllROOM52-54 Dale End, B4 7LS0121 448 0797birmingham-ballroom.com

BOTANICAl GARDENS12A Westbourne RoadEdgbaston, B15 3TR0121 454 1860birminghambotanicalgar-dens.org.uk

BullS HEAD23, St. Marys Row, Moseley, B13 8HWbullsheadmoseley.co.uk

CIVIC/WulFRuN HAllNorth Street, WV1 1RQ. 0870 320 7000wolvescivic.co.uk

THE FlAppERKingston Row, B1 2NU.0121 236 2421

THE FOx BAR17 Lower Essex Street, B5 6SN, 0121 622 3213

HARE & HOuNDS106 High Street, B14 7JZ.

0121 444 2081hareandhoundsk-ingsheath.co.uk

HMV INSTITuTE 78 Digbeth High St, Digbethhmvinstitute.com

THE JAM HOuSE3 - 5 St Pauls SquareBirmingham, West Mid-lands B3 1QU0121 200 3030thejamhouse.com

JEkyll & HyDE28, Steelhouse Lane, Birmingham, B4 6BJ

kITCHEN GARDEN CAFE17 York Road, Kings Heath. 0121 443 4725kitchengardencafe.co.uk

O2 ACADEMy08444 772 000o2academybirmingham.co.uk

SuNFlOWER lOuNGE76, Smallbrook Queensway, Birmingham, B5

THE RAINBOW160 High Street Deritend, B12 0LD

TOWN HAllVictoria Square, B3 3DQ0121 780 3333www.thsh.co.uk

THE VICTORIA48 John Bright Street, B1 1BN. 0121 633 9439thevictoriabirmingham.co.uk

yARDBIRDParadise Place, Birmingham, B3 3HJ

ART VENuES

BIRMINGHAM pRINTMAkERS90 Floodgate Street, B5 5SR, 0121 766 8545birminghamprintmakers.org/

BM&GChamberlain Square, B3 3DH, bmag.org.uk

CuSTARD FACTORyGibb Street, B9 4AAcustardfactory.co.uk

THE DRuM144 Potters Lane, Aston, B6 4UU, 0121 333 2444 the-drum.org.uk

075

EASTSIDE pROJECTS86 Heath Mill Lane, B9 4AR, 0121 771 1778eastsideprojects.org

IkON GAllERyOozells Square, B1 2HS0121 248 0708ikon-gallery.co.uk

THE lIGHTHOuSEThe Chubb BuildingFryer Street, Wolverhamp-ton WV1 1HT01902 716 055light-house.co.uk

MACCannon Hill Parkmacarts.co.uk

THE puBlICNew Street, West Bro-mwichB70 7PG0121 533 7161thepublic.com

WOlVERHAMpTON ART GAllERyLichfield St, WV1 1DU01902 552055wolverhamptonart.org.uk

COMEDy VENuES

THE GlEE CluBThe Arcadian, B5 4TD.0871 472 0400glee.co.uk

HIGHlIGHT259-262 Broad Street, B1 2HF

THEATRE VENuES

AlExANDRA THEATREStation St, Birmingham0844 847 2302alexandratheatre.org.uk

BIRMINGHAM HIppODROMEHurst Street0844 338 5000birminghamhippodrome.com

CRESCENT THEATRESheepcote Street, B16 8AE, 0121 643 5858

THE OlD JOINT STOCk puB AND THEATRE4 Temple Row WestB2 5NY, 0121 200 1892oldjointstocktheatre.co.uk

BIRMINGHAM REpCentenary Square, 0121 236 4455birmingham-rep.co.uk

OTHER

BODEGA12 Bennett’s Hill, B2 50121 448 4267bodegabirmingham.co.uk

CAFE BlENDUnit 4, Orion Building 90 Navigation Street, B5 4AA0121 633 3460cafeblend.co.uk

FAzElEy STuDIOS 191 Fazeley Street, B5 5SE, 0121 224 8484fazeleystudios.com

ORT CAFEMoseley Roadortcafe.co.uk

pARAGON HOTEl145 Alcester Street, B12 0PJ0121 627 0627

ROWHEATH pAVIlIONHeath Road, BournvilleB30 1HH0121 458 1711rowheathpavilion.co.uk