http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/ en sarah.pakes@oxfordinspires.org Copyright 2010 2010-09-08T08:29:21+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/new_exhibition_announced_at_the_o3_gallery_oxford_castle/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/new_exhibition_announced_at_the_o3_gallery_oxford_castle/#When:08:29:21Z Land Lines: Drawn Lines: Stitch Lines By Textile Artist Amanda Hislop 18th September – 17th October 2010 Textile artist Amanda Hislop will present a series of artwork at the O3 Gallery, Oxford Castle from Saturday 18th September until Sunday 17th October. In this collection, Amanda responds to the timeless themes of land, sea, sky and trees. The images created do not reveal the landscape directly but are a response to what it feels like to be within the landscape; an impressionistic sense of the place, a moment of time, a response to light and colour. 2010-09-08T08:29:21+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/kenton_secured/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/kenton_secured/#When:15:25:11Z Last month the fantastic announcement was made that the future of the Kenton Theatre, the fourth oldest working theatre in the country, had finally been secured following the full transfer of the freehold to The Kenton Theatre Management Society. 2010-09-06T15:25:11+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/oxfordshire_theatre_company_dizzy_with_anticipation/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/oxfordshire_theatre_company_dizzy_with_anticipation/#When:12:46:52Z Oxfordshire Theatre Company’s 2010-11 season opens at Cornerstone Arts Centre, Didcot on the 25th September with an Autumn tour of Vertigo by Jonathan Holloway. The production will be touring to arts centres and rural venues throughout Oxfordshire and the UK, including a public performance in the unique environment of the JR Hospital on the 1st November. 2010-09-06T12:46:52+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/ovada_call_to_artists_working_in_new_media/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/ovada_call_to_artists_working_in_new_media/#When:14:50:31Z OVADA exists to facilitate and promote access to high quality visual arts for all the residents of and visitors to Oxfordshire. The organisation has recently vacated its Gallery in Gloucester Green to allow for the redevelopment of the Old Fire Station building. During the interim period whilst OVADA does not have a permanent exhibition space we are excited to introduce a programme of site-specific projects and events across the County. 2010-09-02T14:50:31+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/literature_in_the_county/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/literature_in_the_county/#When:15:04:05Z September is one of the busiest months in Oxfordshire's literary calendar, as both Henley and Woodstock host two fantastic festivals celebrating and showcasing authors and their work from all walks of life. 2010-09-01T15:04:05+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/sacred_faces_icons_in_oxford/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/sacred_faces_icons_in_oxford/#When:13:55:57Z Icons are used in the Eastern Orthodox Church to focus worshippers' prayers. Their form and function have hardly changed over the last fifteen centuries and their spiritual message is retained even in a museum setting. In this exciting new exhibition at the Christ Church Picture Gallery, Greek and Russian icons taken from the University’s collections will go on public display until December 2010. 2010-09-01T13:55:57+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/spotlight_on_stakeholders_the_university_of_oxford_and_oxford_open_doors/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/spotlight_on_stakeholders_the_university_of_oxford_and_oxford_open_doors/#When:13:38:44Z The University of Oxford is pleased to be working in partnership with the Oxford Preservation Trust on the Oxford Open Doors weekend, which takes place on 11 and 12 September. Many University-owned facilities - such as the Bodleian libraries, the four University museums as well as a number of Oxford colleges - will again be opening their doors for this special event. 2010-09-01T13:38:44+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/thames_in_focus_photographers_capture_spirit_of_the_river/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/thames_in_focus_photographers_capture_spirit_of_the_river/#When:09:42:28Z A new season of photography opens at the River & Rowing Museum, Henley on Thames from 4 September 2010, featuring two special exhibitions which capture diverse aspects of life on the River Thames. 2010-08-18T09:42:28+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/bodleian_libraries_launches_oxfords_big_book_public_art_installation/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/bodleian_libraries_launches_oxfords_big_book_public_art_installation/#When:09:21:04Z Members of the public are invited to write in ‘The Big Book’ public art installation in the Bodleian Library’s Clarendon Quadrangle from 20th to 24th August. The installation will be launched by Richard Ovenden, Associate Director and Keeper of Special Collections, Bodleian Libraries. 2010-08-18T09:21:04+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/wanted_local_performers_for_new_showcase_untrieduntested/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/wanted_local_performers_for_new_showcase_untrieduntested/#When:08:25:26Z Oxford Playhouse is looking for local performers to participate in its first scratch night at the Burton Taylor Studio. Scratch shows are a chance to try out material in front of an audience, and get feedback to help shape its development. Untried…untested is scheduled for Monday 20th September at 7.30pm. 2010-08-11T08:25:26+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/henley_welcomes_nyjo_national_youth_jazz_orchestra_to_the_kenton_theatre/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/henley_welcomes_nyjo_national_youth_jazz_orchestra_to_the_kenton_theatre/#When:15:38:04Z The Kenton Theatre has just announced that NYJO will open the theatre’s Autumn Season.Known for its unique swinging big band sound and featuring the most gifted and talented of the next generation of British jazz musicians, this world-class orchestra will showcase the talents of its exciting young players to the audience at the Kenton. 2010-08-05T15:38:04+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/oxford_city_council_-_the_old_fire_station_project_moves_ahead/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/oxford_city_council_-_the_old_fire_station_project_moves_ahead/#When:09:29:49Z Oxford City Council and Crisis, the national charity for single homeless people, have been working together for some time now to plan the redevelopment and refurbishment of the Old Fire Station building in central Oxford. By next summer 2011, a redeveloped Old Fire Station will be home to a new Crisis Skylight centre and a social enterprise, the Crisis Skylight café, which will be open to the public. It will also accommodate an independent arts company, offering flexible and inspirational spaces for artistic professional development and training, and for community groups to use to offer performance and visual arts events, regular classes and courses for the public. 2010-08-02T09:29:49+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/white_horse_folk_festival/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/white_horse_folk_festival/#When:09:21:19Z White Horse Folk Festival is a small, traditional music festival designed to celebrate all that is best about time-honoured song, music and dance. Although started fourteen years ago, WHFF has continued to maintain its intimate yet welcoming atmosphere, where visitors are encouraged to play an active part in the weekend’s events. 2010-08-02T09:21:19+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/bright_young_things_to_be_showcased_at_oxford_creative_event/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/bright_young_things_to_be_showcased_at_oxford_creative_event/#When:09:11:49Z Oxfordshire-based creative hub ‘Bright Young Things’ announces an exciting and inspiring event that will see 20 of the county’s emerging creatives display, promote and sell their work for one week in August. 2010-07-26T09:11:49+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/the_ciao_ark_is_awarded_its_second_london_2012_inspire_mark/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/the_ciao_ark_is_awarded_its_second_london_2012_inspire_mark/#When:09:22:53Z The CIAO! Ark, an innovative arts and environmental science project which saw the installation of a giant Ark on the front lawn of Oxford University Museum of Natural History for a five day celebration of low carbon living, has been granted the Inspire Mark, the badge of the London 2012 Inspire Programme. 2010-07-23T09:22:53+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/the_oxford_castle_big_lunch/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/the_oxford_castle_big_lunch/#When:08:04:15Z Imagine a summer's day on which millions of us, throughout the UK, sit down to have lunch together - in the middle of our streets, around our estates and on every patch of common ground. A day to break bread, raise a glass, and to spread smiles across Britain's face. Well, imagine no more. It's called The Big Lunch and we would like to invite the people and friends of Oxford to join the fun at The Oxford Castle Big Lunch! 2010-07-07T08:04:15+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/summer_night_concerts_at_the_oxford_castle/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/summer_night_concerts_at_the_oxford_castle/#When:15:38:24Z This July (21st July until 1st August) Oxford Castle will host a series of open air Summer Night Concerts in its beautiful gardens. Crossing musical genres, the Summer Night Concerts feature a range of internationally adored names and celebrated local bands, with performances from the kings of swing King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys, rock ‘n’ roll legends Chris Beck and the Valentine Vagabonds and ska heroes TooT N’Skamen to name but a few. 2010-07-01T15:38:24+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/mini_plant_oxford_helps_ark_set_sail_for_voyage_of_a_lifetime/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/mini_plant_oxford_helps_ark_set_sail_for_voyage_of_a_lifetime/#When:09:21:04Z Last month saw the spectacular culmination of an innovative arts and science project, The CIAO! Ark. The project, which initially began in January, was designed to get school children from across Oxfordshire thinking about the positive benefits of a low carbon future. 2010-07-01T09:21:04+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/heirlooms_in_the_making/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/heirlooms_in_the_making/#When:09:04:05Z When asked about the 300 artists, craftspeople, lecturers and teachers booked to demonstrate their genius to a watching public at the 32nd Art in Action at Waterperry in July, the co-ordinators looking after the numerous disciplines on show are vocal! The 24,000 visitors to this annual 4-day event can expect to see people of immense talent employing traditional and ground-breaking skills to create work of great beauty and appeal. Heirlooms of the future? Definitely. 2010-07-01T09:04:05+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/modern_art_oxford_announce_exciting_summer_programme/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/modern_art_oxford_announce_exciting_summer_programme/#When:08:44:34Z This summer Modern Art Oxford presents its biggest ever programme of events, including film screenings, music, talks and tours and family events, all of which run alongside a major new exhibition of twenty-five paintings by Howard Hodgkin. Make the most of Modern Art Oxford’s extended opening hours on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, when the galleries are now open until 7pm and the café and bar in The Yard is open until 10pm. Step inside and see what’s going on, you won’t be disappointed. 2010-07-01T08:44:34+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/spotlight_on_the_banbury_youth_arts_festival_2010/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/spotlight_on_the_banbury_youth_arts_festival_2010/#When:08:20:40Z Banbury’s new Youth Arts Festival draws together a number of events and highlights opportunities for young people to engage with music, dance and drama. This years debut is a modest start to what is hoped will become a major cultural highlight in years to come. The festival, which runs from Thursday 1st July to Wednesday 14th July 2010, includes concerts and performances by groups from schools, drama clubs, arts organisations and the Oxfordshire County Music Service. 2010-07-01T08:20:40+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/oxfordshire_school_children_win_glastonbury_film_competition/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/oxfordshire_school_children_win_glastonbury_film_competition/#When:08:12:57Z A group of year 8 pupils from the North Oxfordshire Academy have won a competition to see their film, entitled Cool it! to be shown on a 25m high screen at this years Glastonbury festival. As a part of the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad, this year’s Glastonbury Festival invited young filmmakers, aged 12 to 24 years, to submit a mix of inspiring, funny, original and challenging films to show on the big screens at the festival in June. 2010-07-01T08:12:57+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/mini_engineers_challenge_local_school_children_to_think_green/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/mini_engineers_challenge_local_school_children_to_think_green/#When:15:31:13Z This month sees the spectacular culmination of innovative arts and science project, The CIAO! Ark. The project, which initially began in January, has been designed to get school children from across Oxfordshire thinking about the positive benefits of a low carbon future. 2010-06-21T15:31:13+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/fiesta_in_the_park/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/fiesta_in_the_park/#When:14:28:01Z Fiesta in The Park is a summer evening of live carnival performances from internationally renowned world music artists. Kicking off Carnival weekend comes, from the Congo, festival-favourite Kanda Bongo Man, with his 8 piece band and high energy dancers raising the carnival spirit! Global musicians from the world famous Grand Union Orchestra, including Claude Deppa and Yousuf Ali Khan, bring the infectious dance rhythms of salsa and samba, ska and soca, hi-life and bhangra with exhilarating jazz solos from trumpet, saxophone and trombone! With hot reggae vibes from local stars Makating, jazzy arabic twists from Brickwork Lizards and reggae, dancehall and ska tunes from Oxford's Count Skylarkin, South Park will be sizzling with carnival fever! 2010-06-21T14:28:01+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/i_cowley_-_get_creative_with_your_heritage/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/i_cowley_-_get_creative_with_your_heritage/#When:13:54:41Z June 2010 sees the launch of I, Cowley, a new and innovative community heritage project inviting local people to build a living archive exploring the rise and rise of Oxford's multi-story urban village! Backed by a £47,200 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Fusion Arts Oxford have teamed up with the Ark-T Centre, Museum of Oxford, Oxfordshire Record Office and Oxfordshire Studies to deliver an exciting new project celebrating Cowley, Oxford. Well known for its landmark multistorey car park and shopping complex, Cowley is central to the lives of many and the project will follow the area's growth from village to urban hub! 2010-06-21T13:54:41+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/rodney_bewes_in_three_men_in_a_boat_-_supporting_kenton_for_keeps/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/rodney_bewes_in_three_men_in_a_boat_-_supporting_kenton_for_keeps/#When:11:54:20Z Actor Rodney Bewes is the latest in a line of local professional actors who has agreed to perform to support the Kenton for Keeps fund and its an event that will have a special place in history for its the last time the actor intends to perform his one-man show Three Men in a Boat. The man who became one of British television's best known faces in the sixties with the hit show The Likely Lads brings his version of the Jerome .K .Jerome novel to the Kenton Theatre in Henley on June 23rd and 24th. 2010-06-21T11:54:20+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/those_magnificent_machines_on_cowley_road/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/those_magnificent_machines_on_cowley_road/#When:11:00:15Z A inventive new procession is happening at Cowley Road Carnival this year. The Magnificent Machines Procession will be on Cowley Road at the Carnival on Sunday 4th July, promising to be a colourful array of amazing, sustainably-propelled ‘vehicles.’ The Procession is open to all and the Machines will be judged on the day. 2010-06-10T11:00:15+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/the_firing_line_depiction_of_conflict_at_christ_church_picture_gallery/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/the_firing_line_depiction_of_conflict_at_christ_church_picture_gallery/#When:10:24:01Z War and battle have always had a place in art – from prehistoric cave paintings to the most current conflicts of the 21st century. For centuries rulers of states had their military encounters visually glorified, choosing not only their own military encounters, but more often famous historical and mythological battles. Critical depictions of war, with very few exceptions, only occurred from the mid-19th century. The subject matter demands monumentality and most of the painted, woven and sculpted works are impressive in size with the intention to overwhelm and awe the viewer. 2010-06-10T10:24:01+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/creations_summer_workshops_are_bigger_better_than_ever/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/creations_summer_workshops_are_bigger_better_than_ever/#When:10:04:45Z This summer Creation Theatre Company’s popular theatre workshops for young people aged 6 – 16 are more exciting than ever. There will be five weeks of fun from 26 July to 27 August when young people can get involved with Creation’s team of actors, musicians and combat directors to share stories from Shakespeare and other great writers, create a play in a week or learn all about stage fights! Younger children can explore fantastic, invented worlds where hungry caterpillars and enormous crocodiles live. 2010-06-10T10:04:45+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/mini_plant_oxford_pledges_continued_investment_in_county_arts_and_culture/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/mini_plant_oxford_pledges_continued_investment_in_county_arts_and_culture/#When:14:02:51Z MINI Plant Oxford is set to continue its support of local arts and culture throughout 2010 after renewing its corporate membership of Oxford Inspires, the county’s cultural development agency. Through Oxford Inspires, the Plant has supported a range projects that have included locally focused arts workshops, large outdoor concerts involving local residents, youth theatre schemes and magical spectacles such as ‘Luminox’ and the ‘Magic Hour’. The recently renewed agreement will make the Plant a major partner for 2010, and will continue the pattern of active community involvement that it has successfully developed over recent years. 2010-06-08T14:02:51+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/cultural_and_creative_industries_provide_10_of_employment_in_oxfordshire/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/cultural_and_creative_industries_provide_10_of_employment_in_oxfordshire/#When:13:36:10Z Oxford Inspires and partners have recently taken delivery of a study of the economic impact of the cultural and creative economy in Oxfordshire. The report confirms that this sector contributes a great deal to our economy and quality of life in the County. 2010-06-03T13:36:10+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/sae_institute_oxford_open_their_studios_to_shildren_from_blackbird_leys/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/sae_institute_oxford_open_their_studios_to_shildren_from_blackbird_leys/#When:11:11:45Z Children from St John Fisher Catholic Primary School in Blackbird Leys will become pop stars for the day at SAE Institute Oxford, using world-class recording studios to record the song that pupils have written and produced as part of the CIAO! Ark Project. Following the children’s environmental science investigations into the effects of climate change on our water supply, they have been working with Nick Cope of the Candyskins to produce a hit single “The Water Goes Up”! 2010-06-03T11:11:45+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/cowley_road_carnival_2010_magnificent_machines_wanted/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/cowley_road_carnival_2010_magnificent_machines_wanted/#When:10:20:31Z Tied in with the theme of Invention this year, there is going to be a Wacky Races inspired procession at 12pm to kick off Carnival on the Cowley Road! Need to promote your group or business? Fancy doing a spot of team building? Or just want to have a great big laugh with your mates? 2010-06-03T10:20:31+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/oxford_high_street_art_gallery_sells_work_hours_into_opening_its_door/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/oxford_high_street_art_gallery_sells_work_hours_into_opening_its_door/#When:09:58:23Z The Meller Merceux Gallery on Oxford High Street is a new Art Gallery show casing significant modern and contemporary artwork. From highlights such as Picasso and Warhol, to contemporary giants such as Damien Hirst and Jeff Koons, the Gallery sets out to exhibit the best the artworld has to offer. The Gallery is the second Gallery to be set up in Oxfordshire, the first being in Witney. 2010-06-03T09:58:23+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/introducing...launch_collaborative/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/introducing...launch_collaborative/#When:14:00:59Z Launch Collaborative is made up of Emily Alexander, Sarah Mayhew and Phil Marston, who met many moons ago as fine art undergraduates. Having graduated, gone their separate ways, and developed different skill sets exhibiting, curating, working within event management, communications, and personal development in cities across Europe, they’ve reunited fusing skills and ambitions to form an artist and curatorial collaborative based in Oxford. 2010-06-02T14:00:59+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/music_from_the_genome_an_intoxicating_mix_of_science_music_and_poetry/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/music_from_the_genome_an_intoxicating_mix_of_science_music_and_poetry/#When:13:42:09Z What makes some people musical and others not? Composer Michael Zev Gordon explores this question in a new work, Allele, using the DNA of New London Chamber Choir as its foundation and texts by Ruth Padel. OCM and Oxford Inspires present the world premiere of this science-inspired composition in the atrium of Diamond Light Source, the UK's national synchrotron facility. 2010-06-02T13:42:09+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/prepare_to_get_dancing_in_witney/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/prepare_to_get_dancing_in_witney/#When:12:59:01Z Witney will come alive with dancing of all varieties as a special day gets under way to encourage young people in West Oxfordshire to try out their skills and experience the fun and excitement of dance. Dancin’ Witney is the first event of its kind in the district and takes place on Saturday 26th June at the Methodist Church. High Street, Witney, 10am-4pm. 2010-06-01T12:59:01+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/ciao_ark_project_announce_summer_programme/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/ciao_ark_project_announce_summer_programme/#When:12:46:53Z The CIAO! Ark Project is inviting children and adults to explore ‘a positive vision of a low carbon future’. They are working with artists and environmental scientists, as well as innovators in the fields of technology, architecture and engineering, to create a picture of a low carbon world that we can all aspire to. 2010-06-01T12:46:53+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/oxford_brookes_university_creative_campus_initiative/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/oxford_brookes_university_creative_campus_initiative/#When:12:14:59Z Universities across the UK have joined forces under the banner of the Creative Campus Initiative to create a programme of innovative and dynamic cultural events inspired by the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2012. Oxford Brookes is one of 13 higher education institutions to take part in the scheme, which has involved staff, researchers, international artists, students and alumni drawn from departments as wide ranging as Fine Art, Social Sculpture Research Unit, Music and the School of Architecture. For Oxford Brookes, the Creative Campus Initiative has been an opportunity to break down interdisciplinary boundaries within the University, to engage with the wider public and to provide mentoring for both current and alumni students. 2010-05-31T12:14:59+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/creation_celebrate_15th_anniversary_year_with_shakespeares_romeo_and_juliet/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/creation_celebrate_15th_anniversary_year_with_shakespeares_romeo_and_juliet/#When:11:44:55Z Creation Theatre Company is this year celebrating its 15th anniversary of presenting lively and accessible open air Shakespeare productions in Oxford. This summer its new production is Romeo and Juliet to be performed in the stunning rooftop Amphitheatre at the Saïd Business School 9 July – 4 September (Press night 20 July). No need to worry about possible rain as Creation’s show is completely ‘weatherproofed’ – if it rains then the performance takes place indoors in the Nelson Mandela Theatre. 2010-05-19T11:44:55+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/unleash_your_inner_olympian_at_the_river_rowing_museum/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/unleash_your_inner_olympian_at_the_river_rowing_museum/#When:12:03:44Z The River & Rowing Museum is inviting local people to take part in FREE sports sessions by providing top coaches and instructors to help improve your swing or score a winning goal. Hosted by local sports clubs and South Oxfordshire District Council's Go Active initiative, everyone, from tots to teens and beginners to pros, will be able to have a go at a range of exciting sports including cricket, rugby, hockey, golf and indoor rowing. 2010-05-17T12:03:44+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/help_build_the_ciao_ark/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/help_build_the_ciao_ark/#When:09:40:48Z If you would like to witness the Ark being built and take part in free family workshops to create the ‘Sea of Troubles’ around the Ark, then come along to any of these workshops at The Old Bookbinders, 9 Green Street, Oxford OX4 1YB. Places are limited so please book in advance via email to or call 01865 200780 for more information. 2010-05-17T09:40:48+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/dance_groups_join_the_carnival_for_big_dance_oxford_2010/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/dance_groups_join_the_carnival_for_big_dance_oxford_2010/#When:09:47:52Z Cowley Road Works has just announced that Cowley Road Carnival will be hosting Big Dance Oxford 2010. Throughout the Carnival, Big Dance Oxford will present a variety of dance performances from regional youth groups, schools and community groups, featuring a diverse, international range of styles. Performances are to take place on the main Carnival Stage in South Park and there will be a selection of master classes open to all. Expect some surprises too with dance events happening among the crowds in the Park and on Cowley Road. 2010-05-12T09:47:52+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/calling_all_aspiring_playwrights/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/calling_all_aspiring_playwrights/#When:09:18:17Z Oxford Playhouse has just launched its regional New Writing Competition 2010. Open to playwrights across the South East, this competition will give the winning writer the opportunity to have their work staged in the Burton Taylor Studio, professionally directed and marketed by Oxford Playhouse. This is a fantastic opportunity for any ambitious writer. This year’s competition will be judged by award winning playwright Douglas Maxwell. Maxwell’s play Decky Does A Bronco is coming to Oxford Playhouse this summer as a part of the exciting Playhouse Plays Out initiative, taking shows to new venues and attracting new audiences. 2010-05-12T09:18:17+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/english_music_festival_2010_programme_announced/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/english_music_festival_2010_programme_announced/#When:15:10:45Z A world premiere of a symphony, a lost piano concerto and rare opera will feature at this month’s English Music Festival (27th - 31st May), in Dorchester-on-Thames, Oxfordshire. ‘World Premiere’ Announced A world premiere of York Bowen's First Symphony will take place at the Festival’s opening concert on the evening of Friday 28th May at 7.30pm in Dorchester Abbey, Oxfordshire, when the BBC Concert Orchestra will be conducted by Gavin Sutherland. The concert is due to be recorded for future broadcast on BBC Radio 3. 2010-05-11T15:10:45+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/whats_in-store_for_cowley/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/whats_in-store_for_cowley/#When:14:46:50Z June 2010 sees the launch of a new and innovative community heritage project ‘I-Cowley’ which will invite local people to tell Cowley’s own story! Backed by a £47,200 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), Fusion Arts Oxford have teamed up with the Ark T Centre and the Museum of Oxford and Oxfordshire Record Office and Oxfordshire Studies to deliver an exciting new project celebrating Cowley, Oxford. Well known for its landmark multi-storey car park and shopping complex, Cowley is central to the lives of many and the project will follow the area's growth from village to urban hub! 2010-05-03T14:46:50+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/oxford_city_council_bringing_communities_together_through_culture/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/oxford_city_council_bringing_communities_together_through_culture/#When:14:13:26Z Oxford has a unique cultural heritage and a voracious appetite for new and challenging cultural activities. Oxford City Council supports the development of the city’s cultural infrastructure by delivering and supporting programmes encompassing visual arts, music, dance, theatre, exhibitions, events and festivals. The Council aims to use culture and the arts as a way of bringing together communities from across our diverse city. Over the coming twelve months they will be doing this in a number of new ways. 2010-04-30T14:13:26+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/the_bullpen_the_family_run_rural_arts_centre/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/the_bullpen_the_family_run_rural_arts_centre/#When:13:43:17Z The Bullpen is a family-run rural arts centre, based in Stanford in the Vale, Oxfordshire. Over the five years since its creation, The Bullpen has undergone an amazing transformation. Thanks to recent grant funding, as well as ongoing support from the local community, Helen, Wesley, Keith and Beth Jacobs have been able to develop the site so that it now includes gallery, studio and workshop space, all in addition to the foundry itself. 2010-04-30T13:43:17+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/wood_festival_celebrating_music_and_nature_in_oxfordshire/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/wood_festival_celebrating_music_and_nature_in_oxfordshire/#When:13:23:41Z Friday 21st May - Sunday 23rd May 2010 Wood is TRUCK Festival’s folkier, cleaner and greener younger brother. Created after the floods of 2007, it is a celebration of music and nature in the beautiful surroundings of Braziers Park, Oxfordshire. As Britain’s greenest festival, it will come as no surprise to learn that Wood runs on completely renewable energy, harnessing the power of the sun and wind as well as the people who attend the event. There will be composting toilets, showers heated by wood-burning stoves and a solar-powered stage, and as if that’s not enough, festival goers will also have the chance to dance the night away in a bicycle powered ‘discotheque’. 2010-04-30T13:23:41+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/artweeks_oxfordshires_biggest_visual_arts_festival/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/artweeks_oxfordshires_biggest_visual_arts_festival/#When:13:09:47Z Saturday 8th May - Tuesday 31st May 2010 Artweeks was founded in 1981 by a group of professional Oxfordshire artists. Their aim was to create a way in which local people could enjoy visual art away from the formality of a gallery setting, in a relaxed environment and with direct access to the artists themselves. Over the past twenty nine years, Artweeks has developed to become the county’s largest visual arts festival, during which artists and crafts people from all over the county open their homes and studios to the public to share their work. 2010-04-30T13:09:47+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/special_exhibition_the_pleasures_and_sorrows_of_work/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/special_exhibition_the_pleasures_and_sorrows_of_work/#When:09:57:46Z An exhibition of photographs and texts from The Pleasures and Sorrows of Work, the bestselling book by philosophical author Alain de Botton, is on show at the Museum of the History of Science. The Pleasures and Sorrows of Work showcases 16 photographs taken by documentary photographer Richard Baker as he followed Alain de Botton on his research trip for the book. The images are juxtaposed with specially-selected extracts from the book. 2010-04-30T09:57:46+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/wormsley_estate_to_be_new_home_for_garsington_opera/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/wormsley_estate_to_be_new_home_for_garsington_opera/#When:09:47:16Z The Directors of Garsington Opera have announced that Wormsley Estate, the home of the Getty family, is the preferred site for Garsington Opera with effect from the 2011 season. Garsington Opera, founded by the late Leonard Ingrams and his wife Rosalind in 1989, has established an enviable reputation over the last twenty-one years for promoting opera of the highest professional quality in an outdoor setting for a short summer season. 2010-04-30T09:47:16+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/street_band_gathering_a_national_convention_for_and_about_street_bands/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/street_band_gathering_a_national_convention_for_and_about_street_bands/#When:11:13:30Z A new national event will bring together musicians, band leaders, community bands and community music practitioners to talk about the phenomenon of street bands (7, 8 and 9 May 2010). Aiming to attract both those who perform in street bands and those interested in finding out more, the purpose of the weekend is to share ideas, practice, and create a network for celebratory street band activity around the country in the lead up to 2012. 2010-04-27T11:13:30+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/university_of_the_trees/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/university_of_the_trees/#When:08:42:51Z A third university has come to light in Oxford. It is a university even older than Oxford University. It is a university in which all citizens are teachers and learners, but also one in which the trees and other-than-human-beings are the teachers as well. It is the University of the Trees. Although here for millennia, it has only recently been acknowledged and become visible through the work of a group of citizens. This group has started to use a ‘kit’ available on the web “that operates like a kind of franchise”, says Oxford resident, Clare Cochrane, who is involved in developing a group in Oxford. And on its website one discovers just how this kit works. 2010-04-26T08:42:51+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/exciting_new_photography_mompetition_launched_to_celebrate_the_cotswolds/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/exciting_new_photography_mompetition_launched_to_celebrate_the_cotswolds/#When:15:04:29Z This month sees the launch of a exciting new photography competition celebrating the beauty of the Cotswolds and giving you the chance to have your image showcased in a six week high profile exhibition at O3 gallery, Oxford Castle. 2010-04-22T15:04:29+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/shields_spears_and_samurai/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/shields_spears_and_samurai/#When:08:59:46Z The Upper Gallery of the Pitt Rivers Museum will once again be open to visitors from May 1st 2010, making it the last area of the Museum to reopen after the recent Heritage Lottery Fund redevelopment. The principal new feature in the reopened gallery is the extensive firearms display, reuniting this important part of the Museum’s collection with the existing arms and armour displays. The previous firearms display, on the ground floor, was dismantled as part of the redevelopment programme in 2009. 2010-04-22T08:59:46+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/wallingford_to_celebrate_st_georges_day_in_style/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/wallingford_to_celebrate_st_georges_day_in_style/#When:08:44:46Z Wallingford is a market town with a Castle on the River Thames. It dates back to the 9th century, and is located half way between Windsor and Oxford. On St George’s Day, the Market Place will be the focus for stalls, entertainment and musical attractions. Clog dancers will also be taking to the streets and local food producers plying their wares in the Regal Centre on St Martin’s Street– a thoroughly British tradition. 2010-04-12T08:44:46+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/opportunities_for_artists/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/opportunities_for_artists/#When:15:48:42Z We would like to tell you about the following opportunities for Artists: 1. Empty Shop in City Centre location available to Artists 2. Studios available at Magdalen Road Studios 2010-04-08T15:48:42+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/new_digital_treasure_trove_brings_stories_alive/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/new_digital_treasure_trove_brings_stories_alive/#When:14:16:36Z A digital feast of stories and story-related activities is now available at the click of a mouse. Launched by the Story Museum in Oxford, this new website is an essential free resource for parents, educators, arts and heritage professionals – and children themselves. 2010-04-01T14:16:36+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/under_construction_theatre_company_calling_all_performers/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/under_construction_theatre_company_calling_all_performers/#When:09:51:41Z Under Construction was formed in 2007 and are committed to creating unique, participatory theatrical experiences in unusual sites. Their 2010 performance, entitled Tightrope, is an experiment in combining modern devised performance with the early-English music of William Byrd and his contemporaries. By drawing ideas directly from Byrd’s lyrics, as well as from the personal struggles that the composers encountered through their work, the group aim to bring this beautiful, but lesser known period of music to new audiences in an innovative way. 2010-04-01T09:51:41+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/the_queens_anniversary_prize/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/the_queens_anniversary_prize/#When:09:29:20Z The Queen’s Anniversary Prizes for Higher & Further Education recognise and promote world-class achievement and excellence. As part of the national honours system, the Prizes are the UK’s most prestigious educational awards. To date, the University of Oxford has won the Award seven times out of eight rounds - a record unsurpassed by any other university. 2010-04-01T09:29:20+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/ciao_ark_all_set_to_take_over_oumnh_front_lawn/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/ciao_ark_all_set_to_take_over_oumnh_front_lawn/#When:08:15:59Z The CIAO! Ark is a large-scale public art installation that will provide an exhibition and performance space during a five day celebration of low carbon living in Oxford in June. Various Oxford city centre locations were under consideration for the Ark and CIAO! is delighted that the Museum is now welcoming it onto its front lawn - a green space in front of one of Oxford’s most iconic buildings. It is an appropriate setting for an installation that represents a meeting place for science and the arts. 2010-03-31T08:15:59+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/bring_a_pound_to_work_day/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/bring_a_pound_to_work_day/#When:08:49:03Z The Lord Lieutenant of Oxfordshire and President of the Oxfordshire Community Foundation, Tim Stevenson OBE, is urging all Oxfordshire businesses to encourage their staff to dress in blue for the day and donate a pound on Friday 16th April. Oxfordshire Community Foundation is a charity run by local people that makes grants to other voluntary groups across the county. To date, they have given over £2½ million to over 750 local community groups. 2010-03-29T08:49:03+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/step_into_the_fourth_dimension/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/step_into_the_fourth_dimension/#When:10:46:20Z Friday 26 March, 6.00pm and Saturday 27 March, 2.30pm Venue: Oxford School, Glanville Road, Oxford Tickets: £3 Pegasus Theatre presents the last production in their Year of Science and Art programme for the Oxfordshire Seasons of Science festival. Oxford Youth Theatre Companies and adult drama group Platypus Theatre present Fourth Dimension at Oxford School. 2010-03-23T10:46:20+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/explore_colour_at_county_museum_this_weekend/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/explore_colour_at_county_museum_this_weekend/#When:09:33:13Z Children will have the opportunity to explore and discover the fascinating world of colour on 13 March at the Oxfordshire Museum in Woodstock. As part of the Oxfordshire Science Festival, the county council-run museum is holding art workshops for families. Using the theme ‘Fascinating Colour’, and drawing artistic inspiration from Terry Frost’s Jungle piece, children will have the chance to experiment with paint and create their own artwork to take away. The art workshops will run from 10.30am – 12.30pm and 2.00pm – 4.00pm, and will cost £1.50 per child. 2010-03-12T09:33:13+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/vote_for_the_ashmolean_museum_to_win_the_art_fund_prize_2010/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/vote_for_the_ashmolean_museum_to_win_the_art_fund_prize_2010/#When:11:04:02Z The Ashmolean Museum in Oxford is one of eleven institutions long-listed for the £100,000 Art Fund Prize, the UK’s largest single arts prize. The long list has been selected by a panel of Judges chaired this year by broadcaster Kirsty Young. Traditionally the long list comprises ten, but for the 2010 Prize eleven institutions have been nominated, attesting to the high quality and volume of applications received. 2010-03-05T11:04:02+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/plans_given_the_green_light_for_new_3m_youth_centre/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/plans_given_the_green_light_for_new_3m_youth_centre/#When:10:20:30Z Plans to build a new £3m youth centre in Banbury were approved last month by Oxfordshire County Councillors, after a successful bid was made to the Government’s Co-location Fund. The building, which will provide state of the art facilities and access to vital services for young people and their families, has been hailed as one of the biggest projects of its kind in the country. 2010-03-03T10:20:30+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/launch_of_the_oxfordshire_science_festival/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/launch_of_the_oxfordshire_science_festival/#When:13:30:51Z This week sees the start of the annual Oxfordshire Science Festival, where hands and minds can get busy exploring, debating, experiencing and discussing science. This year the festival will take place over two weeks in March, and will be made up of over 70 different events with something guaranteed to suit all ages and interests. 2010-03-01T13:30:51+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/the_sunday_times_oxford_literary_festival/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/the_sunday_times_oxford_literary_festival/#When:13:21:48Z The Sunday Times Oxford Literary Festival is already one of Britain's must-go literary events. This year the festival will run from Saturday 20th to Sunday 28th March, and will offer a wonderful range of talks, discussions, debates, readings, literary lunches and dinners in the exceptional and beautiful surroundings of Christ Church and Corpus Christi College. The eight day event will see over 350 writers gather to discuss subjects as wide ranging as books, politics, history, the environment and food. 2010-03-01T13:21:48+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/new_service_location_oxfordshire_up_and_running/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/new_service_location_oxfordshire_up_and_running/#When:13:05:02Z Location Oxfordshire is a new service that has been set up to support the film, TV and photographic industries. Through their new website, anyone wishing to film in the Oxfordshire area can access information and advice on a range of important topics. Find out how to apply for filming permits, who to contact if you want to film on council or university property and what types of film friendly services are available in the area. Furthermore, the website also offers a growing database of suitable film locations, and lists sites such as parks, airports, houses, empty buildings, colleges, museums and much, much more. 2010-03-01T13:05:02+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/sae_oxford_open_day_-_in_tune_for_a_sound_future/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/sae_oxford_open_day_-_in_tune_for_a_sound_future/#When:14:49:14Z If you're looking for a future career in sound engineering or digital film making then the SAE Institute Open Day at Littlemore Park, Oxford is the place to be this weekend. You can meet the experts and discover how you can study for an Audio Engineering Diploma or Degree BA (Hons) when you visit the campus this Sunday, 21st February from 11.00 am to 5.00pm 2010-02-18T14:49:14+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/dancin_oxford_launch_at_mini_plant_oxford/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/dancin_oxford_launch_at_mini_plant_oxford/#When:12:42:10Z Last night MINI Plant Oxford played host to a dance extravaganza, which saw 200 guests gather to support the art form and celebrate the official launch of the annual Dancin’ Oxford festival. Headlining the event was a new dance and film piece, inspired by the MINI Plant and specifically created for the launch by choreographer Cecilia Macfarlane, film maker Roly Carline and OFVM Film Oxford. The piece – which took its inspiration from the many hundreds of robots that operate in the factory’s bodyshop facility – proved just how effective manufacturing and machinery could be in stimulating creativity and the imagination. 2010-02-17T12:42:10+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/chief_executive_sarah_maxfield_to_leave_oxford_inspires/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/chief_executive_sarah_maxfield_to_leave_oxford_inspires/#When:10:32:49Z Oxford Inspires would like to announce that Sarah Maxfield will be leaving her role as Chief Executive of the organisation, after having been appointed Regional Director for Arts Council England's North West region. Sarah, who has led the organisation for three and a half years, will leave Oxford Inspires in March having made a valuable contribution to the charity and its work. 2010-02-03T10:32:49+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/cultural_platform_with_philip_pullman/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/cultural_platform_with_philip_pullman/#When:16:48:18Z Oxford Inspires' Cultural Platforms have, over the years, played host to many distinguished speakers, and 2010 promises to be no exception. For our seventh event, we have invited acclaimed author Philip Pullman to share his own perspectives on contemporary cultural issues and the value of culture in modern times. The talk, which will be held at the Saïd Business School in March, will not only be open to invited guests but will also – for the first time – invite participation from the general public via a live web-cast of the talk, and through a web chat with Pullman himself. 2010-02-02T16:48:18+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/the_ciao_childrens_climate_change_conference/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/the_ciao_childrens_climate_change_conference/#When:16:28:10Z Despite severe weather conditions, the CIAO! Children’s Climate Change Conference went ahead as planned and marked the official launch of the CIAO! Ark Project. Eight of the ten primary schools involved in the project valiantly made their way to Oxford’s Sheldonian Theatre, some on foot and on buses that had not been running the previous day when many of Oxford’s streets were barely passable owing to blizzards! The scientists speaking at the event arrived in their wellies and, against all odds, nearly 400 school children listened to some of Oxford’s leading environmental scientists and engineers presented their visions for a low carbon future and explained the science of climate change. 2010-02-02T16:28:10+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/2010_partners/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/2010_partners/#When:11:46:54Z Oxford Inspires is delighted to be able to confirm that so far, ten of our corporate members from last year have decided to renew their contracts and continue to support culture in the county during 2010. To date, Barceló Hotel, Bicester Village, Carbon Colour, CPM, Four Pillars Hotel, Infineum, Oxford Castle, Richardsons Chartered Accountants, Torpedo and VSL have all agreed to renew their corporate membership agreements with Oxford Inspires, through which local businesses can play an important part in promoting a stronger cultural life for Oxfordshire. 2010-01-20T11:46:54+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/oxford_jazz_festival_-_bigger_and_better_for_2010/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/oxford_jazz_festival_-_bigger_and_better_for_2010/#When:09:58:00Z After the success of last year’s inaugural Oxford Jazz Festival, Oxford is set to host the four day jazz spectacular once again, with over 40 performances taking place across the prestigious city’s most historic and exciting venues. Taking place over Easter weekend (1 - 4 April 2010), the Festival features performances from some of the leading lights from the world of jazz including Liane Carroll, Mornington Lockett, Pete Oxley’s Flight of Hand featuring Dave O’Higgens, Kairos Quartet, Clara Sanabras, BD Lenz and Kate Williams Quartet, among many others. 2010-01-20T09:58:00+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/pegasus_theatre_competition_got_a_wheelie_good_idea/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/pegasus_theatre_competition_got_a_wheelie_good_idea/#When:16:22:02Z Got a wheelie good idea? Then you're in the right place! Closing date: Monday 8 February 2010 There’s no reason why a bike rack needs to look like a bike rack, so if you’re aged 6-19 let your imagination run wild with Pegasus Theatre's new competition. Don’t worry about how to make it – they'll sort that out. All you need to do is… THINK IT...DRAW IT... SIGN IT... SEND IT! 2010-01-19T16:22:02+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/truck_in_the_usa/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/truck_in_the_usa/#When:16:16:34Z AMERICA…… TRUCK YEAH!! April 30th - May 2nd 2010. CATSKILL MOUTAINS - NEW YORK. Surely the most famous festival of all time is Woodstock. Staged in the Catskills Mountains in up state New York, news of this hippy gathering was passed around and the supposedly small gathering was over run by free loving party cats from across America. Woodstock represented what was so powerful about the peace and love hippy movement of the sixties and it showcased some of the most ground breaking musicians of that time (some might say ever). 2009-12-17T16:16:34+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/christmas_light_night_delights/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/christmas_light_night_delights/#When:11:30:01Z Oxford city centre was packed on Friday night for Christmas Light Night, when thousands flocked to witness the lantern procession and many festivities on offer. 2009-11-30T11:30:01+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/ace_grants_150000_to_ciao/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/ace_grants_150000_to_ciao/#When:15:03:33Z Ark for ‘A positive vision of a low carbon future’ The CIAO! Ark is an environmental arts and science project, positively tackling many of the issues and perceptions surrounding climate change. It will take place in 2010, involving the participation of ten Oxfordshire primary schools, resulting in an Ark being built in a central Oxford location as an exhibition and performance space to display work created by school children and local community groups. 2009-11-27T15:03:33+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/story_museum_gets_anonymous_gift_to_buy_permanant_home/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/story_museum_gets_anonymous_gift_to_buy_permanant_home/#When:16:18:57Z Harry Potter, Bilbo Baggins, Aslan, Alice and Lyra would all be thrilled: Oxford is set to have a world class Story Museum in the city where so many captivating children's tales have been created. 2009-11-19T16:18:57+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/the_theatre_chipping_norton/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/the_theatre_chipping_norton/#When:15:20:36Z We are thrilled to announce that The Theatre Chipping Norton won The Stage Award for Special Achievement in Regional Theatre at the recent TMA Theatre award ceremony. 2009-11-12T15:20:36+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/local_artists_create_work_for_christmas_light_night/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/local_artists_create_work_for_christmas_light_night/#When:16:47:58Z In preparation for the CHRISTMAS LIGHT NIGHT celebration in the city on 27 November 2009, artists and arts teachers from around Oxford recently gathered with Fusion and Same Sky to start creating artistic lanterns to take part in a magical procession that will walk through Oxford City Centre. 2009-11-11T16:47:58+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/oxford_inspires_partner_le_manoir_aux_quatsaisons_serve_up_a_morning_to_rem/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/oxford_inspires_partner_le_manoir_aux_quatsaisons_serve_up_a_morning_to_rem/#When:17:45:35Z On a bright August morning, 20 of the Oxford Inspires Corporate members took up the offer of a guided tour of Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons to celebrate their 25th anniversary this year. After a relaxing coffee, there was an introduction by General Manager, Philip Newman-Hall to the history of Raymond Blanc followed by a guided tour around the kitchens providing a unique insight into all the preparations for that day’s lunch via their 40 chef brigade! Guests were then also guided expertly around their 8 gardens including English, Japanese and vegetarian sections and La Vallée de champignons (the mushroom valley!) It all made for a fascinating and well rounded experience following the organic process from food germination to the dinner plate. 2009-09-04T17:45:35+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/the_independent_woodstock_literary_festival_wednesday_16th_to_sunday_20th_s/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/the_independent_woodstock_literary_festival_wednesday_16th_to_sunday_20th_s/#When:18:22:55Z Now in its fifth year, the 2009 festival includes over 50 talks and events held in venues throughout the town of Woodstock. As a festival partner, Blenheim Palace is the site of many of the talks, including the magnificent annual festival dinner. A few of this year’s speakers include Ronni Ancona, David Cameron, Leslie Caron, Simon Carr, Zac Goldsmith, Joanne Harris, Alex James, Martin Kemp, Tony Parsons, Tom Philips, Andrew Roberts, Fergal Sharkey, William Shawcross, DJ Taylor, Sarah Waters, and many more. The Oxford Times is the festival’s regional media sponsor. 2009-08-07T18:22:55+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/arts_across_oxford_receive_a_boost/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/arts_across_oxford_receive_a_boost/#When:17:46:26Z MINI Plant Oxford continues to play a role in bringing innovative arts events and projects to Oxford this year. Working in partnership with Oxford Inspires and local arts organisations, the Plant has pledged its support to the work of the cultural development agency and a number of community-based projects taking place during 2009. Kathelene Weiss, Director of Development at Oxford Inspires, said: “We are delighted to have developed a strong partnership with MINI Plant Oxford. The Plant has been a Major Supporter of Oxford Inspires since 2005. “Plant Oxford has become integral to, and associated with, building the environment for a strong and vibrant arts sector and continues to make a real difference to our city’s cultural and community life. 2009-07-20T17:46:26+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/carnival_in_the_park_a_resounding_success/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/carnival_in_the_park_a_resounding_success/#When:17:50:30Z The sun shone on the estimated 30,000 people of all ages who filled South Park on Sunday for Carnival in the Park, this year’s alternative to the Cowley Road Carnival celebrating diversity in East Oxford. The event was truly representative of the many cultures represented in East Oxford and Oxfordshire, with locals and visitors enjoying the talent of local musicians, dance groups and other performers, food from around the world, and the pleasure of being together. The procession, made up of 28 schools and community groups decked in fantastic costumes, wound its way down the hill in the park, smiling, dancing and drumming, to the U Dance Festival dance stage for their final bow. The event was proclaimed a resounding success by many, and the organisers, East Oxford Action Charity, extend their thanks to Oxford City Council, Oxfordshire County Council, Arts Council England and MINI Plant Oxford, and to the many volunteers and people who helped out in so many ways, for making it possible. 2009-07-19T17:50:30+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/oxfords_own_theatre_company_cleans_up_river_for_the_greenest_twelfth_night_/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/oxfords_own_theatre_company_cleans_up_river_for_the_greenest_twelfth_night_/#When:17:51:42Z Oxford’s Creation Theatre Company will be performing Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night this summer at the Saïd Business School Amphitheatre 9 July – 5 Sept and most of the set and costumes is to be made from the flotsam and jetsam the actors can pick up along the Thames. Shakespeare’s famous comedy of mistaken identity starts with a shipwreck on an island, and Director, Heather Davies, has therefore decided that in the play the characters will be seen picking up “debris” and using it inventively (as you would have to on a desert island) to make their costumes and props (e.g. a net of ropes could perhaps be made into a cloak). Creation therefore wants to find all the items they need from the natural environment and recycle them for their show. 2009-07-06T17:51:42+00:00 http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/wonderland_whatever_the_weather_as_oxford_gears_up_for_alices_day_this_satu/ http://www.oxfordinspires.org/EE/index.php/site/news-item/wonderland_whatever_the_weather_as_oxford_gears_up_for_alices_day_this_satu/#When:17:59:30Z As characters from Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland prepare to take over the city, visitors to Oxford can follow in Alice’s footsteps and take a free self-guided trail down the rabbit hole, into curious corners and through magical gardens. Preparations are well underway to turn Oxford into Wonderland for the day on 4 July to celebrate the original telling of this classic story on the river in Oxford. Dress up if you can, and don’t forget to bring a picnic. 2009-06-29T17:59:30+00:00