Were we the best dressed ladies at Fontwell?

The £1000 prize for best dressed was up for grabs last week.

Hundreds of beautiful ladies turned out to compete for the title of "Best Dressed" at this years Fontwell Park Racecourse ladies day on Thursday 15th August

I'm sure it was a very hard decision for the judges as every single lady had really pulled out all the stops.  

In our opinion we topped the lot with our 2 gorgeous showgirl stilt walkers and 4 glamorous Vegas showgirl dancers ;-)

Well we didn't walk away with the hundreds of pounds prize money but our wonderful team certainly wowed the hundreds of race day goers and really added the Manic sparkle to the days exciting proceedings.

As the crowds queued for their tickets they were treated to a live Vegas themed dance performance by our 4 stunning showgirls. High kicking and twirling to famous tunes including Viva Las Vegas, Diamonds are a girls best friend and of course Dream Girls.

Inside the gates standing tall were our showgirl stilt walkers. Everyone stopped for a picture with them as they elegantly framed the red carpet.

It was a glorious hot sunny day and our fire dancer added to the heat by performing fire burning tricks and quirky fire choreography.

Once through the gates and into the champagne bar and pimms tent all the lovely ladies were treated to the smooth swing sound of Jamie our very own Rat Pack swinging sensation. He really enhanced the mood with his laid back style and cheeky charm.

At 6.30pm the main event began - The Jump Racing!! 

The team were invited to join in the fun and I believe they even had a little flutter :-)

If you would like more information on how Manic Stage Productions can help enhance your venues events please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Web: www.manicsp.co.uk

Email: manic_sproductions@yahoo.co.uk

Call: 07977478565

Performing at the Launch

South Coast Fashion Week Launch – Aruba, Bournemouth July 24^th 2013.

Last Wednesday night the team took to the stage at Aruba Bournemouth and entertained the large SCFW crowd with their alternative catwalk production featuring dance and quirky choreography ideas!

Along with live music, from Sertari , Ellie Harris and Benn Gunn, our choreographed set and fashion shows, launched the preparations for the first South Coast Fashion Week. 

Wearing clothes from House of Fraser, Manic modelled the stores Summer and Autumn ranges but with our usual original flare and fun!

We love to produce entertaining catwalk shows that really wow the crowds. Adding props and flipping ideas so that audiences young and old are all entertained.

The evening was hosted at Aruba, Bournemouth, on July 24^th, by presenters from, Jack fm, who introduced the exciting plans for the event, which will be held at the Bournemouth International Centre 9–11 May 2014.

South Coast Fashion Week will be the biggest fashion event ever to come to the south and judging by the very positive response to the launch, it is clear that this is going to be an exciting event. 

Over 150 unique boutiques, designer labels, and the best in High St brands will take part in this fashion experience in 2014. 

Presenting  the latest catwalk collections, hints and tips from the experts and some of the hottest new designers and graduate talent around, South Coast Fashion Week promises to have something for every fashion conscious individual.

         

The SCFW team also launched their search for The Face of SCFW, model competition.

The competition is open to men and women over 18 and entrants can register at the next pre show events, to be held at Grosvenor Casino, Gunwharf Quays, September 18^th and The Concorde Club, Eastleigh, Southampton October 10^th. 

We will also be performing at these two forthcoming events and we can't wait to put together another fantastic show!

SCFW is sponsored by House of Fraser, Jackfm, The Breeze and Scissors Salons                                                                

For more information and details  please contact Mandy Pearce mandy@scfw.co.uk or visit www.southcoastfashionweek.co.uk

Member of the Month ~ July

So it’s that time again..... Member of the month!

 This month we introduce you to Rebecca Edwards!

So Rebecca, tell us a bit about yourself...

How did you get into performing?

The adrenaline rush I experience when I am waiting on the side of a stage to entertain is the most electrifying feeling any dancer could wish to have. I have a strong musical family background and have always had the desire to perform and express myself. I started at a very young age and became a member of Helen O’Grady drama group, where I learnt the basic skills to speak publicly and project myself. 

When did you start your dance training?

A long time ago I with ShowStoppers Dance and Drama Academy. I originally trained in ballet, modern and drama. I have gained my British Arts Awards in ballet and modern. Over the years my classical technique has blossomed through shear hard work which I gain great satisfaction from. I have always been a dedicated team member and have been in many dance shows working as part of a group and also as a soloist competing in London. I came second in the British Arts for Entertainment 2008, competing against other dancers from Europe.

Where did you study?

I am excited to say that I have just graduate from the University of Chichester where I have gained a BA Hons Dance Degree.

What was your experience at University like?

Chichester University has taught me how to be flexible in my career aspirations. The choreography module has required me to use initiative, creativity and imagination, be a good listener to dancers, use enthusiasm and the ability to work alone with little rehearsal supervision. A variety of different contemporary technique classes have given me the understanding of how different people approach teaching dance. From each class I have gained such a broad range of knowledge, I really feel I am equipped to perform and teach in all different styles dance. 

How exciting! How long have you worked for Manic?

I began working for Manic in September 2011, so nearly 2 years now! It's so much fun that the time has really flown by.

What have you done with Manic during that time?

What haven't I done! Work experience is an important element to any career and I've certainly experienced so many parts of this exciting industry through Manic. I have worked as a dance teacher, dancer and model for a Manic Stage Productions. I love working with children it has helped me to understand and develop a different technique in communicating dance. I also work as a Manic dance party host leading games and teaching a small dance routine helping children understand how to work as part of a team. I have performed in many bridal fashion shows under Manic, modelling a variety of wedding and bridesmaid dresses in Hampshire. Alongside this I have performed as a professional dancer in a variety of different events such as Children In Need at the Kings Theatre Southsea, Victorious Vintage and Festival of Christmas at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and other corporate events and shows. 

How are The SHOW Girlz getting along?

We’re doing really well! It's great to be part of such a talented team. Nicole and Matt have some fantastic contacts which have give us a great variety of work. We recently performed at The Beauty Awards hosted by Amy Childs from The Only Way is Essex, we are helping to promote companies such as Fontwell Race Course and coming up, we are performing at the all new Southsea Show.

Sounds Fab! So what are your plans for the future? 

For the future I am hoping to experience some international contracts and possibly a bit of modelling. I also hope to eventually gain my PGCE in Secondary School Dance teaching!

Thank you Rebecca, we wish you all the luck for the future

To book Rebecca or any of the Manic Stage Production team please contact Nicole on 07977478565 www.manicsp.co.uk nicole_manic@yahoo.co.uk 

Surrounded by Celebrities

It was celebs all the way this weekend as The Show Girlz performed for the glittering Beauty Awards hosted by the glamourous Amy Childs and sponsored by top hair stylist to the stars Lee Stafford.

Nicole took her seat amongst the creme de la creme of Hampshires beauty and hair industry whilst the girlz prepared for their 20 minute musical extravaganza performance on the Guildhall stage!

Outside our sexy stilt walker welcomed the guests with sweets and an even sweeter smile!

The champagne was flowing on arrival and was followed by a delicious 3 course meal. At 9pm The Show Girlz took to the stage to entertain the 450 merry crowd.

Our 5 strong, talented team performed a medley of high energy choreography. Including pieces from Moulin Rouge, Dirty Dancing, Cabaret and Viva Las Vegas.

The audience were treated to 5 vibrant costume changes and 2 solo vocal performances amongst 10 toe tapping tunes. The crowd clapped and cheered with delight as each section quickly rolled into the next.

We had such a fantastic response from everyone watching and we were delighted with how successful the whole night was. Sara from JP South Events who organised the extravagant evening complimented us and said “Thanks soooo much Nicole, your girls were fantastic!! And the stilt walker really surprised the crowd. We will definitely be working with you again"

We even received a tweet from Lee Stafford!!

Amy Childs presented the awards and Nicole managed to sneak a quick picture with her back stage

Lastly we would like to congratulate our TOWERPOWER landlord Tony Wood on his award! His amazing hair salon and team United Salons situated in the Clock Tower (Our Office Building!) was crowned Salon of the Year 2013

 What a fun filled night we had! We can't wait to see if we get invited back next year! Fingers crossed! 

Check out this little video of the event and look out for our gorgeous girlz near the end.

http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/salons-triumph-at-our-awards-night-1-5190873

For more information or to book Manic Stage Productions and The SHOW Girlz please visit www.manicsp.co.uk

Shut Up! We're working with Amy Childs

On Saturday evening The SHOW Girlz (Manic Stage Productions specialist entertainment team) will be stepping back on to the Guildhall stage, this time to entertain at this years Hair and Beauty Awards. 

But they wont be the only glamourous and sparkly ladies there to wow the crowds! Our 5 dancers will be joined at this exciting event by TOWIE star Miss Amy Childs.

With her very own beauty salons and beauty range, TOWIE star Amy Childs knows her stuff about hair and beauty industry.

Salons across the city are abuzz with the news that the reality show star will be presenting this year’s The News Hair and Beauty Awards. Amy shot to fame on smash hit TV program The Only Way Is Essex. With her glamorous looks and industry knowledge, she will make the perfect presenter for the ceremony. Amy, 22, said: ‘I’m so excited to be presenting The News Hair and Beauty Awards this year. As a trained beautician, I’m looking forward to honouring my fellow professionals for their hard work and dedication to the industry.’

The evening is set to be a huge success and we are sure all of the nominations will be dressed to impress. 

Manic Stage Productions will be putting on a musical medley extravaganza featuring some of the sexiest musical theatre show numbers known. Including routines from Dirty Dancing, Moulin Rouge and Cabaret.

Rehearsals are well under way and the team are excited to meet Amy and celebrate with the beauty industry at these prestigious  awards.

Watch this space for pictures and videos of the night and our performance next week.

If you would like more information about The SHOW Girlz or Manic Stage Productions do not hesitate to contact Nicole on 07977478565

Manic Member of the Month

Each month we will be interviewing one of our gorgeous girlz on their career and life as a dancer!

This month we introduce to you Lucy Kate

How long have you been dancing for?

For as long as i can remember! I think as soon as I could walk I was wearing my ballet shoes!

Did you train professionally?

Yes I trained professionally from a young age at The Legat Ballet School where I boarded. It was a big decision for my family and I at such a young age but I received a scholarship and was desperate to dance. Later at 16yrs I went to Brian Rogers Performers College for 3 years where I gained a diploma in Musical Theatre.

What was professional training like?

It was tough! We took around 6-8 classes a day which included ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, partner work, singing, drama and musical theatre. We were exhausted at the end of every day! But there was no time for rest, we did this 5 or 6 days a week for 3 years.

After what sounds like grueling training, what was auditioning for professional jobs like?

Auditions are very tough! For every audition there is at least 300 girls sometimes up to 800! It can be very daunting!  But you have to give it your all and not be afraid of knock backs! After all, they are usually only looking for one person, so that means 799 disappointed people. Dancers are tough skinned though and no amount of rejection puts us off going after our dreams! Sometimes your the lucky one!

What was your first professional job?

My first professional dance job was in Qatar. I was a dancer in an illusion show with Guy Barrett, for Qatar Summer Wonders Festival. There were several shows from the UK flown over for the festival which lasted around 2 months.

What was it like working in Qatar?

It was very different to the UK. All our costumes had be made so that they were appropriate for Qatar audiences. Not a lot of flesh was on show compared to the costumes we have in the UK! It was great living and working in such a different culture. A great 1st job with some fantastic people.

What other countries have you worked in?

I have been lucky enough to work in many countries! I have performed in several different shows in Dubai. I have performed in a casino show in Macau and rehearsed for this for a month in Hong Kong, this was a great opportunity to experience yet another very different cultures! I have also performed in several casinos in Portugal and I have been in a show in India. But, most of my traveling has been whilst cruising! Working on a cruise ship as a dancer is a great way to see the world! I have performed on P&O cruises and NCL Cruise line, taking me to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, North America, Carribbean, Mexico, Alaska, South America and Antarctica!

Wow you have been very busy! Do you dance a lot in the UK?

I do dance in England doing shorter contracts and lots of one off events, mainly for The SHOW Girlz (or as they were formerly known MANIC!). With these I have performed at awards ceremonies, xmas party events, theatre shows and corporate events.

How long have you been apart of The SHOW Girlz?

I have been apart of the team since the very beginning! The SHOW Girlz have always welcomed me back to perform with them between contracts and shows abroad. Its nice to come back to friendly faces and know that my experience further a field is appreciated. All the team are encouraged to perform and work for major companies throughout the UK and abroad, this is what keeps the team fresh and at the top of the profession!

Whats your favorite part of being one of 'The SHOW Girlz?'

I love that I can work with professional talented people so close to home in Portsmouth!

Fab! Lastly whats in the performance pipe line for you and The Show Girlz?

It's exciting as the team are getting very busy. Nicole and Matt do a great job of finding us work and Manic Stage Productions are very respected for their ability to provide exactly what is asked of them. We are currently rehearsing for several events along the South coast including The Beauty Awards hosted by Amy Childs from TOWIE. Vegas themed entertainment for a large hotel chain and some amazing choreography to compliment a request from a top MJ tribute artist.

Thank you Lucy :-) we wish you every success!

1920's Inspired Entertainment

Thanks to Baz Luhrmann's long awaited picture "The Great Gatsby" the roaring 20's are back in full swing! The whole world has gone flapper crazy and the flamboyant Gatsby parties have whipped everyone into a 20's frenzy! His magnificent and over the top celebrations are currently being emulated at every opportunity.

There is no better theme to chose for your next event or party and we have gorgeous flapper girls, molls, dolls and even speciality acts that Gatsby himself would have revealed in, all ready and waiting to step on stage.

YouTube clip of The SHOW Girlz

Let The SHOW Girlz entertain at your next decadent event or speakeasy soiree! Join in with this latest Great Gatsby craze and enter into a glamourous, glitzy world of Jazz, timeless sophistication and pure indulgence!

Call us today for a no obligation chat and lets discuss us helping you add the razzle dazzle to your party

07977478565 ~ manic_sproductions@yahoo.co.uk ~ www.manicsp.co.uk