Wednesday 23 September 2015

Another Big Thank You!

CELEBRATED CLIENT OF THE MONTH!
COMMERCIAL ROAD TOWN CENTRE MANAGEMENT

Wow Manic Stage Productions cannot believe that the summer holidays are over and just how quickly September is flying by! We were very busy with all sorts of bookings, workshops and activities throughout the summer and would like to share one of these with all of our followers. 

For the 3rd year Manic were invited on behalf of Portsmouth City Council to provide FREE activities, 'Things For Kids To Do' during the school holidays in the heart of Portsmouth's busy Commercial Road. This month we would like to take this opportunity to give our client of the month celebration champagne to the Portsmouth Town Centre Management Team for their continued support, bookings and help over the last few years. 


Manic's team entertained hundreds of children this August and gave parents that much desired rest, even if it was for just 20 minutes or so. With days out costing a fortune and the weather never being very reliable these FREE activities meant parents could give their little ones some entertainment without too much effort!


Alongside the city council Manic Stage Productions created a number of different themed activities so that each day was a little different. 
From pirates to cheerleading, west end stars to fairytale and circus to pop stars there was never a dull moment. Manic provided a table of arts and crafts with all sorts of interesting designs for the children to make such as key rings, crowns, pirate hats and masks, clown faces, decorations and cards. 



In addition to the dance, arts and crafts we also had on hand a very creative artistic face painter who wowed the children with a variety of styles and designs. This year as a little extra we also had awesome, shimmering glitter tattoos that proved a huge hit with everyone young and old! 


With so much for the children to do every Monday and Wednesday throughout August these activities really did help keep the little ones entertained. 

We would again like to thank everyone involved from Portsmouth City Council and the Town Centre Management Team. We really look forward to hosting events with you again in the future and providing you with more creative activities and entertainment next summer!

For any enquiries regarding bespoke entertainment do not hesitate to contact Manic and our production team who would be happy to provide you with more info and a personal quote featuring our unique specialist professional team. 

Monday 14 September 2015

MEMBER OF THE MONTH ~ Michael


MEET MICHAEL
September's Member Of The Month

This month Manic Stage Productions would like to introduce you to another member of our talented team....We like for you to get to know each and every person that make up the Manic family, so here is a little bit about Michael to keep you up to date with who you might like to book this month!


When did you start dancing?
When I was about 8! The am-dram society my sister was involved with needed a boy for the Pantomime – so I was roped in! I loved it and was immediately hooked! I then went on to join West Lancs. Performing Arts Saturday School and later took modern, ballet and tap at Ormskirk School of Dance. In hindsight, I was very lucky to have parents willing to pay for and taxi me to all these classes!


Where did you train professionally?
After completing my A-levels I made the big move to London and trained at London Studio Centre, where I graduated as Head Boy with a degree in Theatre Dance. It was lots of hard work, but a fantastic experience. I got to train in all styles of dance, perform in the West End and made life long friends!



















Tell us about your jobs since graduating?
My first job out of college was as a Parade Dancer in Disneyland Paris – that was a dream come true as I’m such a Disney fan, and I loved going into Paris on my days off! I then went on to work as a dancer for several Christmas and Summer Seasons at the Pavilion Theatre in Cromer. As well as dancing, I was lucky enough to be an illusionist’s assistant and help to make people fly and cut them in half! I’ve also spent the last few Christmases as a dancer in various Pantomimes at the Swan Theatre, Worcester!


What do you like about working for Manic?
I love being part of the Manic team; everyone was so welcoming when I first joined, I immediately felt at home! They’re a fantastic team and so lovely to be around. It’s great to be able to keep my fitness and technique up and work between contracts. Also I’ve learnt so many new skills through being part of the Manic team: Stilt walking, fire dancing and aerial hoop to name a few! Nicole and Matt always encourage us to expand our repertoire of skills!


Tell us about any specialist skills?
I trained as an aerialist before joining Manic, working primarily on aerial silks. I’ve dabbled in trapeze and hoop, but Silks are definitely my favourite! There’s something about being upside down, 10 foot in the air, holding on by one foot that appeals to the adrenalin junkie in me!
I usually train 2 nights a week (if not more) at Paradise Fitness in Fareham.
I find that my background as a dancer helps with the flexibility required for some silks moves. Aerial work is a great way to build up strength and stamina – It’s a long way down if you run out of energy!


Do you have a manic highlight?
I’d have to say performing as part of Manic’s 10th Anniversary Showcase at the Kings Theatre. It’s such a beautiful Edwardian theatre, not to mention huge! I work front of house there, so being on the other side of the Orchestra Pit was a nice change! I loved that we got to perform all of our favourite Manic medleys in one show. My favourite was the circus medley - as well as dancing in it, I got to go up on the silks. I loved doing the Fire Finale as well – that went down very well with the audience, it was such a fantastic atmosphere.


What’s next for you?
I’m working towards getting my aerial instructor qualifications! So hopefully I’ll be able to get all the Manic team up on the Silks before long.
In November I’m returning to Panto-land to work as Dance Captain on Dick Whittington at the Swan Theatre in Worcester! Then I’ll be back with Team Manic in January!




For all aspects of professional entertainment don't hesitate to contact us with any questions or ideas you may have.

Monday 7 September 2015

JULY'S CELEBRATED CLIENT!

SCHOOLS OUT!

As part of our 10th year anniversary celebrations, each month this year Manic Stage Productions are thanking one of our loyal and deserving clients for their continued support and our great working relationship over the past 10 years.
July's client is 'Court Lane Infant School'

Court Lane Infant School in Drayton have had one of our talented team teaching all aspects of dance to year groups across the school for the past 4 years. We are certainly looking forward to dancing into our 5th working year with them in September!

Back in the year 2010, Manic's proprietor Nicole sat down with then headteacher Mrs Twigg to devise a solution to their PPA and PE needs. 


PPA time is time set aside for teachers during their timetabled teaching day to allow them to carry out planning, preparation and assessment activities. Its purpose is to relieve some of the existing workload pressures on teachers.

Working closely together Nicole and Mrs Twigg successfully created, wrote and developed a dance syllabus that complied with the National Cirriculum levels 1, 2 and 3. It covers all styles of dance and develops the children's co-ordination, control, creativity, confidence and capability. Each half term the children in each year groups work on a new style of dance and perfect a different genre with specific moves and skills. The styles vary from:
Pop Dance
Street Dance
Cheerleading
Contemporary
Indian
African
Tap
Ballet
and many more on request.


This exciting new syllabus is now available for all infants schools to enjoy and covers Year R through to Year 2.

Compliance with the national agreement can put a strain on teachers timetables and we are aware that some schools do not have enough non-contact time available in their busy schedules. Let Manic Stage Productions help you raise standards and tackle workload by using our creative team to provide your teachers with the minimum 10 percent guaranteed PPA time required.


 If you feel your school would benefit by featuring Manic Stage Productions and their inspiring dance tutors, then call today. These professionally lead sessions are fun for all and Manic would love to become a part of your schools timetable and provide you with this unique service. 


Our PPA workshops have become very popular throughout Hampshire. We help in developing a school's PPA strategy by offering additional staff. Our unique and versatile teaching methods bring to life the national curriculum using dance and drama, giving pupils a chance to develop their creativity and confidence. 

Do not hesitate to get in touch. We are always happy to discuss your individual needs to devise a specific plan for your school and pupils


Please contact us if you would like more information or request a schools pack.
manicstageproductions@gmail.com
www.manicsp.co.uk

Monday 13 July 2015

Our June Thank You!


This month we say thank you to
LORNA JACKSON

Manic are celebrating our 10th anniversary this year and to commemorate this special occasion each month we have been thanking one of our clients or contacts. Those special businesses who have continued to support us and been a big part of our 10 year success! Those that have helped us grow and develop as one of the South Coasts leading entertainment businesses. 

This June our chosen client is 'Lorna Jackson' 
Lorna runs her own business as a Marketing and PR Consultant called 
'Advance and Get Noticed'.


We are very excited to have Lorna working closely with Manic Stage Productions and over the next 6 months Lorna will be working hard to raise the profile of our exciting business. 


Advanced and Get Noticed has a great track record for introducing us to new clients and loves spreading the word about Manic and everything we do! The plan is to establish even more contracts and clients further a field and grow our audience beyond the South Coast. With Lorna's extensive skills and knowledge in PR we are so excited to see all of the results in this special year!

Here is a little bit about what Lorna does and how she can help to enhance your business:

'My background in marketing and public relations working in both the private and public sector has given me a breadth of knowledge to help provide you with the tools and pointers to get you going on your business journey.'

Tailoring to your business Lorna can answer those questions and help you with those specific details of your business that will make endless amounts of difference when it comes to clients choosing your stand out business from the rest. 

For a personal yet professional approach to top class PR we recommend "Advanced and Get Noticed" For more information, ideas and a plain English response with non of the 'jargon' and 'buzz words', get in touch. visit their website www.advanceandgetnoticed.co.uk


If you would like to know more about Manic Stage Productions or have an enquiry about a booking for your occasion or event then do not hesitate to contact us for a unique tailored entertainment package.
Email us at manicstageproductions@gmail.com or visit our website at www.manicsp.co.uk


Monday 6 July 2015

JULYS MEMBER OF THE MONTH ~ Natalie


MEET NATALIE!


Manic Stage Productions has a wonderfully talented team of individuals and we like to introduce you to them and tell you a little bit about each and every one of them. This month meet Natalie...



Whats your dance history? 

I started dancing at the age of 3! Mum always said that I practically danced before I could walk! I began dancing at the Southsea school of dancing with Nina Brown! I went to primary ballet and never looked back after that! 
I studied all types of dance; ballet, tap and modern! I quickly began to realise how much I loved to dance. I also went to singing lessons and was a junior member of the Portsmouth players! I did lots of local theatre productions and 
also christmas pantomimes at the kings theatre! At the age of 12 I auditioned 
for the Royal ballet associates, and was lucky to gain a place at their weekend classes. I then went onto being a central school of ballet associate at the age of 15! And landed my first role as Clara in the nutcracker with the English youth ballet! 


Where did you professionally train? 

I auditioned at the age of 16 for many schools, and decided I wanted to go on and train at a professional college. I got into london studios on the ballet course 
and also Northern ballet, but decided I wanted to focus on all disciplines, not just ballet. So I also auditioned for Laine Theatre Arts! I was lucky enough to be awarded a 3 full year scholarship! So I decided to take this incredible opportunity! 


Tell us about the jobs you have done since graduating?

Since graduating I have worked on land as a dancer and dance captain at "Warner Leisure Hotels" with Bourne Leisure at Holme Lacy House and Bembridge Coast! I have worked for sea cruise limited, on the old Thomson Destiny as a dancer, sailing around Greece and Turkey! And I have most recently worked for Qdos Productions, onboard the beautiful Celebrity Millennium as a production dancer, sailing around Alaska and Asia! 
It's truly fantastic to get to travel the world and get paid to do what you love!


What do you love about working for Manic?

I love working for Manic Stage Productions! It's like a little family! It gives us dancers great opportunitys to perform locally in big events! We get to do a great class each week and be involved in some great corporate events and shows! It's so good to be able to do what you love without having to travel so far to do it, and do it at a professional level! It's also a great way to keep fit inbetween contracts! 


Whats your favourite Manic gig?

My most favourite gig with manic so far, has to be "Fort de Soleil"! It was so great to be apart of something so unique. I loved the routine and the whole "cirque" theme! And even gained a new skill whilst doing it! I can now say on my CV, that I can dance with fire! I must say it was frightening experience at first but also thrilling at the same time!

What do you love most about performing? 

I think my most favourite thing about performing, is being able to let yourself go and immerse yourself in what you love! I love performing and bringing joy to others. Dance is a way to express yourself, and I don't think I could ever express myself more than the way I do, when I dance! It's also lovely to be able to say, I love my job! And not many people get to say that! I'm not saying it's easy! As its not, you have to want it and work very hard and constantly keep picking yourself up after rejection, as there is a lot of that! (especially when your 5ft!) but all in all it's a very rewarding job! 

Tell us about your future contracts 

Well my next adventure will be with Fred Olsen Cruises, onboard MV Boudicca! I am very much looking forward to working with Mirage and doing another amazing itinerary but with a different company this time! 
I have to thank my family for always being so supportive and being there through all the ups and downs! But it's been so worth it! 


We hope you have enjoyed getting to know another member of our team and we look forward to introducing you to somebody new next month!


In the mean time if you have any enquiries regarding professional tailored entertainment for any occasion please don't hesitate to contact us at manicstageproductions@gmail.com
www.manicsp.co.uk


Wednesday 3 June 2015

It's Kids Party Time!


Book Your Child's Birthday Party...

Manic Stage Productions specialise in hosting the most fun and exciting children's dance parties in Portsmouth! 
We provide the highest quality party hosts with tonnes of experience and enthusiasm to keep children of any age entertained from start to finish. 

Did you know that Manic host these fun filled Disco Dance Parties at an exclusive venue? It really is the perfect setting for your child's dance party. 


For the past 5 years we have provided a wonderful hen party package at Tiger Tiger, Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth and now we are excited to announce that you can book the ultimate "Disco Dance Party" for your children in the 'Groovy Wonderland' nightclub room!


The light up multi coloured dance floor, dazzling disco ball and booming speaker system make it the best party venue in Portsmouth!
Your budding pop stars and groovy movers will love this unique venue and be able to perform in the stage spotlight alongside their friends and family for that memorable special birthday treat!


Manic will host your entire party leaving you nothing to worry about on the day (except the cake)
Each of our dance parties last for 2 hours and the package and price includes two dance party hosts.


Our structure is as follows:
First half hour playing games to welcome and wait for all the children to arrive.
Second half hour the children will take part in a short warm up and learn a dance routine to the style and music of their choice
After the first hour the party will break for food and a well deserved rest. At this time the 
cake will also be delivered with the whole party singing happy birthday. 
Finally the children will strut our confidence catwalk and prepare for "show time" the performance for the parents at the end!


The cost of our dance party including x2 party hosts, groovy wonderland room hire and music is:
£175 for up to 20 children.
£200 for 20+ children.
Max 32 children

A party food buffet is available from Tiger Tiger at a charge of £8 per head to include pizzas, sandwiches, crisps, fruit, jugs of squash and water and tea and coffee for the adults. 

As you can see there really is no better party for your special pop prince or princess....
Everything is taken care of and we promise to deliver a birthday party your dance stars will never forget.


For a booking form or any enquiries that you may have regarding our dance parties please do not hesitate to contact us at...


Thursday 28 May 2015

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION SHOW



HAPPY 10th BIRTHDAY MANIC! 

This July Manic Stage Productions are celebrating our tenth year in business and to commemorate this massive milestone we are producing a fantastic evening of entertainment for charity. This professional performance showcase evening will be held at Southsea's King's Theatre!



Tickets are available to the public and are only £5 per person. All proceeds from this event will be split between our two chosen charities, 'Diabetes U.K.' and 'Alzheimer's Research U.K.'  We have chosen to raise money and support these two amazing charities simply to give something back to the community. 
We would love to see as many of you at this event as possible to raise as much money as we can to help support the continued hard work of both of the above charities.





Manic's vision for this special showcase was to cast a unique show full of variety and professional entertainment for your viewing pleasure. 
As a celebration of our ten years in business we want to show the progression and growth of our company and feature all aspects of Manic and what we do. 

From teaching in schools to producing events, Manic tailor to all of your entertainment needs and work closely with individuals, schools and corporate companies to add the wow factor!


Here are a few things you can expect to see on the night.
Sky high stilt walkers, sequinned feather showgirls, high kicking can can dancers, children's characters, beautiful aerialists, dazzling dancers, pitch perfect singers and all your favourite show time hits..... performed with a special Manic twist!


The show is called Manic and friends as for this event we wanted as many people to join the line up as possible and we have invited many talented people that we regularly work with to join us on stage at different intervals to perform alongside the "Manic Show Team". 


We are excited to announce that the following people will make show stopping appearances...
The Manic Team 
The Fabulous Miss G
The Kings Youth Theatre
LKSA Dance School
Rachael Hawnt 
Christopher Marlowe
Amba Tremain
UVG 
Jamie Riley 
Ben Claybon
Local School Children
and many many more!!

We can assure you this night is going to be one to remember and will not disappoint. The show is suitable for all ages and will have something for everyone to enjoy. We look forward to you joining us to celebrate our 10th birthday! 
Tickets are available from the King's Theatre box office on 02392 828282.



For any other enquires regarding unique tailored entertainment for all occasions do not hesitate to contact us at www.manicsp.co.uk or manicstageproductions@gmail.com