Mimi And The Mountain Dragon to be ‘BBC One festive treat’

Airing this winter on BBC One, a special 2D animated adaptation of Sir Michael Morpurgo’s children’s book Mimi And The Mountain Dragon is to have its television premiere this festive period as part of a wider literature focus on the BBC in 2019-20.

The (1×25’) story on BBC One will have an introduction from the award winning writer himself, Sir Michael Morpurgo (War Horse), and will be narrated through classical music in an original score written by Oscar award-winning composer, Rachel Portman (The Little Prince). It will be performed by the BBC Philharmonic featuring singers from the Hallé’s family of choirs and will be recorded at Media City UK, Salford.

Based on original illustrations by Emily Gravett and adapted for the screen by novelist, poet, and playwright, Owen Sheers, Mimi and the Mountain Dragon is a story about a village that quakes in fear of the mighty Mountain Dragon. One winter, a shy little girl called Mimi finds a tiny baby dragon asleep in her family woodshed. Mimi takes the perilous journey through blizzard and darkness to return the baby dragon to her mother who all the villagers fear.

The newly animated film from Leopard Pictures and Factory started life when Jan Younghusband, Head of Commissioning for BBC Music TV, approached Sir Michel Morpurgo and asked him if he would write a children’s story that could be set to classical music for BBC television. Inspired by a trip to a village in Switzerland some years before, Michael Morpurgo wrote Mimi And The Mountain Dragon which was also released as a children’s book.

The programme is commissioned by Head of BBC Music TV Commissioning, Jan Younghusband, for Charlotte Moore, Director of BBC Content. The project is also supported by Alice Webb, Director, BBC Children’s & Education, and is executive produced by Leopard Chief Creative Officer, Kristian Smith and Phil Chalk for Bafta-winning studio Factory.

Charlotte Moore, Director BBC Content, says: “We’re delighted to be bringing this enchanting mix of music and storytelling to BBC One this Christmas.

“Sir Michael Morpurgo’s wonderful book will be perfectly complemented by the music of Rachel Portman, The BBC Philharmonic and singers from the Hallé’s family of choirs – a real festive treat for all the family.”

Sir Michael Morpurgo says: “Many years ago, in the Engadine Valley in Switzerland, I saw village children in red hats, cracking whips, ringing cowbells, banging drums, creating a great cacophony of noise, as they paraded up through the village. I asked why this was happening. They are driving away wicked spirits, I was told. So began my story of Mimi And The Mountain Dragon.

“And now, extraordinarily, wonderfully, this little story is being made into an animated film, by Leopard Pictures and Factory Create. And what a team BBC Music have put together. There is music by Oscar-winning composer Rachel Portman, a script by Owen Sheers, the great Welsh poet (so he knows a thing or two about dragons!) and with magical drawings from the supremely talented Emily Gravett. I can’t wait to see it!”

Jan Younghusband, Head of BBC Music Commissioning for Television, says: “At the BBC we have a proud heritage of finding new ways to introduce children to classical music, stretching right back to Benjamin Britten’s Young Person’s Guide To The Orchestra, The BBC’s Ten Pieces project and now Mimi And The Mountain Dragon.

“It is an honour to work with Sir Michael Morpurgo, Rachel Portman, Owen Sheers, Emily Gravett, Leopard, Factory, The BBC Philharmonic and Hallé’s family of choirs to bring classical music to audiences everywhere with this film.”

Kristian Smith Chief Creative Officer Leopard Pictures, says: “Mimi And The Mountain Dragon is truly born of love. With countless awards and prizes each, author Sir Michael Morpurgo, composer Rachel Portman, writer Owen Sheers and illustrator Emily Gravett have united their exceptional and exquisite talents to create a timeless, magical story. How lucky am I to get to hang on their coat tails?

“We had the great privilege of partnering with a company I deeply admire in Factory, who are bringing the animation to life. This is a beautiful film, all set to Rachel’s phenomenal original music.”

Phil Chalk, Managing Director of Factory, says: “We are absolutely thrilled to be working with Leopard Pictures and the BBC in making this magical 2D animated special of Mimi And The Mountain Dragon. It’s such a wonderful story by Sir Michael Morpurgo, which we can’t wait to bring to life!”

Edinburgh Leisure offers FREE Seven Day pass

Friendly instructors, local gyms and Edinburgh’s largest offering of fitness? Yes please!

Sign up online today for your Free 7 Day Pass!

Now is a great time to join Edinburgh Leisure but before you sign up as a member, we’d like to show you what we’ve got on offer.

We’re giving you the chance to try before you buy until the 31st of August.

You can pick up your pass on this page for 7 days unlimited free access to our 14 gyms, 9 swimming pools and over 800 fitness classes across the city.  Our gyms have some of the latest equipment with integrated TV screens and app connectivity. Our extensive class timetable includes Les Mills programmes and water-based fitness and in addition to our 9 swimming pools we have 6 saunas, 3 steam rooms and the city’s only public Turkish baths.

If you like what you see you can then sign up to join the biggest club in town online now.  Terms and conditions apply.

PLEASE NOTE:  

Your pass starts the day you apply and runs for 7 consecutive days.

 

Scotland’s revenues grow by £3 billion

DEFECIT CONTINUES TO FALL 

Scotland’s notional deficit is falling faster than the UK’s, with onshore revenues increasing by 5.1% to reach £61.3 billion in 2018-19 as a result of continued economic growth.

According to the Government Expenditure and Revenue Scotland (GERS) figures published yesterday, Scotland benefitted from a £3 billion increase in onshore revenues in the last year – the fastest growth since 2010-11 as the overall notional deficit fell by £1.1 billion to 7.0% of GDP, down from 8%, in 2018-19.

The reduction in the notional deficit is the result of revenues growing at a faster rate than expenditure.

Commenting on the latest figures during a visit to manufacturing company Armadilla Ltd in Bonnyrigg, Finance Secretary Derek Mackay said: “With record tax revenues, strong economic growth and near record low unemployment, Scotland’s economy and public finances are strong. Today’s figures show overall revenue in Scotland reached £62.7 billion – exceeding £60 billion for the first time – reflecting the strength of our economy.

“Our notional deficit has fallen while public spending has increased thanks to our efforts to grow the onshore economy and the strong performance of taxes in Scotland. The Scottish Government’s choices on taxation are helping to create a more progressive tax system.

“This strong performance from Scotland’s economy is at risk as a result of the UK Government’s EU exit plans, and in particular a ‘no deal’ Brexit, which poses a severe threat to jobs, investment and living standards

“A ‘no deal’ Brexit could reduce revenues in Scotland by around £2.5 billion a year, holding Scotland back and demonstrating why people in Scotland increasingly recognise the importance of making our own decisions.

“These figures reflect Scotland’s position as part of the UK. The Scottish Government believes we could unlock our full potential with independence, allowing us to take the best decisions for Scotland.

“As we have always said, Scotland has a strong, and growing, economy and our future will be far brighter as an independent member of the EU.”

Westminster puts a different slant on the latest figures, of course. Commenting on the Scottish Government’s GERS figures for 2018-19, Scottish Secretary Alister Jack said: “Today’s GERS figures show clearly how Scotland benefits from being part of a strong UK with every man, woman and child in Scotland receiving a ‘Union dividend’ of nearly £2,000 a year.

“These Scottish Government figures also show there would be a £12.6 billion black hole at the centre of an independent Scotland’s finances. Real questions need to be asked about the First Minister’s stewardship of the country’s economy.

“With Scotland’s deficit now more than six times greater than the UK average, the Scottish Government needs to take action.

“Scotland remains the highest taxed part of the UK. This is harming our economy and should be a huge concern to us all.

“The UK Government is investing in Scotland to deliver jobs, opportunities and sustainable growth, including £1.4 billion for city and growth deals. We are working hard to support businesses and bring further opportunities as we leave the EU on 31 October.”

The UK Government notes:

  1. Using the Scottish Government’s own data, public spending in Scotland was nearly £1,661 per head higher than that of the UK average. In other words, in 2018-19 it was 13.6% higher than the UK average. Over the last five years, this gap has been on an upward trend from £1,182 or 10.2% in 2014-15 and £1,661 or 13.6% in the latest full financial year.
  2. Scotland’s tax contributions, at £11,531, continue to be around £307 per head less than the UK average, at £11,838.
  3. Scotland’s deficit [or borrowing] was nearly £1,968 per person larger than the UK average in 2018-19.
  4. Scotland contributed 8.0% of UK tax and received 9.3% of UK spending in 2018-19 (Scotland’s population share was 8.2% in 2018-19), demonstrating how Scotland receives secure and stable levels of spending irrespective of the volatile tax revenues from the North Sea.
  5. Whilst Scotland’s share of UK total revenue has marginally increased over the last year, it is generally on a downward trend. Since its peak at 9.7% in 2008-09, Scotland’s contribution to UK revenues has been on a downward trend in subsequent years and is currently at 8.0% of the UK total. This is marginally up from 7.9% the year before.
  6. Total North Sea revenues fell slightly from £1.30 billion in 2017-18 to £1.24 billion in 2018/19. This is up from a low of minus £85 million in 2015-16 and down from a peak in 2008-09 of £10.6 billion.
  7. Scotland’s net fiscal balance as a share of GDP was –7.0%, compared to –1.1% for the UK overall. This decreased from –8.1% in 2017-18, compared to the UK overall, which came down from –2.0%. In absolute terms, Scotland’s deficit was £12.6 billion in 2018-19, down from £13.8 billion in 2017-18 (incl. North Sea revenues).
  8. While Scotland’s overall fiscal position improved in 2018-19, Scotland’s deficit as a share of its economy is over 6 times higher than that of the UK.

You pays your money, you takes your choice. Make your own mind up:

The full statistical publication is available at http://www.gov.scot/gers

 

Link Up Women’s Support Centre shortlisted for national award

Link Up Women’s Support Centre, Edinburgh is a finalist in the Scottish Women’s Awards 2019. The group, based at St Margaret’s House on London Road, are nominated in the Women Support Group of the Year category. 

Link Up Women’s Support Centre will find out if they are a winner when the gala event takes place in Glasgow next week.  Continue reading Link Up Women’s Support Centre shortlisted for national award

Waverley Sessions: Free music this weekend at Waverley Mall

Waverley Mall Edinburgh is continuing its successful partnership with Edinburgh based not-for-profit organisation, The Youth Radio Network with another edition of their popular monthly music showcase ‘The Waverley Sessions’.

The next instalment of this lively event, which has seen dozens of musicians of all ages, musical genres and social backgrounds take to the Centre’s stage since April, is set to take place this Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th August.

The event will kick off at 10am on Saturday on Waverley Mall’s stage and will be hosted by Keiran Harvey and the team of volunteers from The Youth Radio Network until 6pm on the Sunday evening.

This weekend’s showcase will see 18 talented acts taking to the stage across the weekend and will include a combination of solo artists, duos, groups and even a comedian – in collaboration with The Fringe Festival.

Acts taking to the stage this weekend include 20 year old Dylan Paterson from The Scottish Borders, Singer/ Songwriter Conall Adam from Dunfirmline, Edinburgh born and bred Ciara McDonald, London based comedian Joe Baines, 18 year old Amy Donald from Edinburgh, 20 year old Lisa Scotland from Fife, Glasgow based Jen Athan, 20 year old Bronwyn Riani from Newcastle Upon Tyne, 14 year old Ethan Gibb from Livingston, three-piece Edinburgh based band Einstein’s Wardrobe, girl duo ‘In The Mix’ and ‘Let The Bird Out’.  The youngest performer to step up to the mic this weekend is returning act, 9-year-old Kara from Glenmavis, who will close Sunday’s show.

Waverley Mall has been working in collaboration with The Youth Radio Network on The Waverley Sessions since April this year, following two successful events hosted by The Youth Radio Network in December last year.

The Youth Radio Network’s vision is to empower, teach and entertain young people, aged 13 to 25 years, through the power of music and digital technology, opening doors to the broadcast industries, and to become more employable helping them to get the best start in life.

Their role includes teaching young people the ropes of the broadcast industry and helping to prepare them for employment through CV preparation, mock interviews and confidence building.

Through their work with Waverley Mall they are empowering young people – giving them opportunities skills and equipment as well as hands on experience in a real life setting for a future in the music / broadcast industry. By providing a platform, to perform, Waverley Mall is building on this opportunity with the chance to build personal confidence in performing in public.

Finally, The Youth Radio Network seeks to entertain their audience through music.

This edition of The Waverley Sessions (the second this month) is set to be a fantastic celebration of talent from Scotland and beyond and build on Waverley Mall’s aspirations to deliver products and experiences that are Scottish to the core.

The event offers the opportunity for Fringe-goers to enjoy some FREE live entertainment in Waverley Mall’s food court across final weekend of the Fringe Festival. 

Jacquelyn Stewart, General Manager, Waverley Mall says: “We’re incredibly proud of the success of The Waverley Sessions and our partnership with the Youth Radio Network. It is so rewarding to see young people gaining experience and confidence and watch them grow and develop as musicians.

“The team at The Youth Radio Network are all young volunteers themselves, so to see how they pull together to make these events run smoothly, under Keiran’s enthusiastic and professional management is truly inspiring.” 

Keiran Harvey, CEO, The Youth Radio Network says: “The Youth Radio Network is incredibly privileged to be such a big part of this amazing event. The Waverley Sessions truly does give young and upcoming musicians and bands from right across Scotland a platform to showcase their talent to the world! 

“Every month we’re amazed by the level of talent that we see. We would like to thank Waverley Mall for their continued support and also to all our amazing volunteers and staff for all their hard work and dedication at the sessions.

“We look forward to continuing to showcase Scotland’s amazing talent in partnership with Waverley Mall and we would urge all musicians or bands, whether you are just starting up or have done a few gigs, to get involved. We are here to support if you need it! As the moto goes, Teach, Empower and Entertain!”

Entries open for Port of Leith’s Big Bake Off

Leithers and local bakeries sign up for community bake off in September

Port of Leith Housing Association has partnered with local businesses including social enterprise Breadshare Bakery, The Kilted Donut, Bakery Andante, Bad Tempered Baker and Mimi’s Bakehouse to host Leith’s Big Bake Off this autumn. Continue reading Entries open for Port of Leith’s Big Bake Off

People’s Vote: Let Us Be Heard rally at The Meadows this afternoon

Labour MP Jess Phillips and SNP MP Joanna Cherry will join a stellar line-up of comedians at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival for a People’s Vote ‘Let Us Be Heard’ rally in Edinburgh today.

They will be joined by top comics Andrew Maxwell, Grace Campbell and Fred MacAulay as well as the renowned ‘Graffiti Granny’, Hazel Jones. Continue reading People’s Vote: Let Us Be Heard rally at The Meadows this afternoon