Women of the World Festival - Southbank Centre

IN the 21st century it is a sobering thought that there is not one country in the world where there is gender equality.

It is one of the many reasons why Jude Kelly established the Women Of The World Festival (WOW) in 2011.

What began as a three-day event to hear discussions on the big topics affecting women and girls — domestic violence, sexism in the workplace and equal pay – it has now become an established annual event in the Southbank Centre’s calendar and is part of its core commitment to promoting equality for women and girls.

This year it celebrates with an expanded programme of events – beginning on March 1 – and an ambition to present the festival in all 53 Commonwealth countries by 2018.

WOW has been curated by Domino Pateman, working alongside Jude, and has as its president, HRH The Duchess of Cornwall, a long term supporter of the event.

Over eight days and across the entire Southbank Centre site, it will feature more than 300 speakers and performers appearing in more than 200 events, many of them free with organisers predicting more than 20,000 will visit and take part.

It will again coincide with International Women’s Day on Sunday, March 8 with a full day of talks, workshops and performances.

And proving its global reach and its success over the years, the line up brings together a stellar roll call of national and international names – from actresses to comedians, chief executives to emerging talent, representing sport to politics, fashion to education.

“The festival this year is going to be amazing,” Domino tells me. “It has grown over the years and we have an expanded programme with a real range of things on offer.

“This has in part been informed by a series of workshops and events we hosted where we asked people what they wanted to see and experience.

“We are very excited about it.”

The highlights of the festival are many. It kicks off on Sunday with The Woman’s Hour Debate in the Purcell Room and in the days following features a host of fascinating talks, debates and workshops, covering a multitude of topics.

Those taking part include the likes of novelist Kate Mosse, DJs Gemma Cairney and Lauren Laverne, journalist Caitlin Moran, singers Annie Lennox and Rebecca Ferguson, anti poverty campaigner Jack Monroe and civil liberties campaigner Shami Chakrabarti.

Sarah Millican and Sandi Toksvig will headline Mirth Control, the annual night of comedy and music inspired by great women and featuring the all women WOW orchestra and Liz Carr and Bird La Bird will present a one off night of cabaret and comedy.

As well as the fun side and the triumphs and promotion of women’s achievements there is an underlying serious side.

“Although we celebrate womanhood and all the good things that have happened over the years, we also need to investigate why there is still gender inequality in every country and what it is that stops women and girls achieving their full potential,” says Domino.

“Massive inequality still exists and this needs to change and we will be hosting workshops, talks and debates to explore that.

“For example, we will be looking at what the issues are that women in sport are facing through to some of the most awful things that can happen such as violence against women with talks by survivors of rape and domestic violence and a workshop on consent.

“Jude will do a talk on personal responsibility that really looks at this. Questions that will be asked include what level of inequality can women stomach?”

Elsewhere Christine Lagarde, managing director of the International Monetary Fund, will make the economic case for gender equality across the globe, Salma Hayek Pinault will present the UK premiere of her animation The Prophet and female MPs including Harriet Harman will go head to head at pre-election hustings.

There will also be the London premiere of The Baulkham Hills African Ladies Troupe, a piece of verbatim theatre with four African women refugees to Australia recounting the true stories of how they survived civil war, kidnap and rape.

And proving that feminism isn’t just for grown ups or teenagers, there are Under 10s Feminist Corner workshops and How To Be Fearless seminars.

Many of what’s on offer will be free and on the last weekend there will also be a free children’s care zone available for day or weekend pass holders. Professional child care staff will be on hand to look after the little ones and a chill out film zone and arts and craft area will be available to keep them entertained.

"We are not surprised it’s been a success but this isn’t just for girls and women," says Domino. "Anyone and everyone should come along – men, women, boys and girls. It’s important that everyone is engaged.”

WOW Festival 2015 takes place across the Southbank Centre site between Sunday, March 1 and Sunday, March 8. Visit www.southbankcentre.co.uk/wow for full listings.

One Man - Gavin Spokes

CUTS and bruises, knackered knees and getting knocked out are all part of the current day job for actor Gavin Spokes.

The 36-year-old is starring as Francis Henshall in a nationwide tour of the National Theatre's award-winning production of One Man, Two Guvnors which comes to the New Wimbledon Theatre next week.

Despite the physical nature of the part, which Gavin admits is playing havoc with his body, he says it’s a dream role.

“It’s going stupidly, brilliantly well and all of us in it are having a great time,” he tells me. “I love every second - although it’s incredibly tough on me and the company - but the moment you get on stage it’s like being on the best roller coaster.”

The play is based on the farce, The Servant of Two Masters, by 18th century Italian playwright Carlo Goldoni.

Adapted by Richard Bean it is set in Brighton in the 1960s, and revolves around Francis who, fired from his skiffle band, becomes minder to Roscoe Crabbe – his first guvnor.

To make a bit of extra money Francis takes on another guvnor but in doing so, has to keep the two apart.

“It’s possibly one of the most convoluted, ridiculous plays known to the history of theatre,” Gavin laughs.

“Francis is the most lovable chancer and a bundle of joy. He’s the kind of chap you’d want to have a pint with. He’s not the sharpest knife in the tray but he’s brilliant fun and it is a real laugh out loud, joyful evening.”

The play was first staged at the National Theatre and starred James Cordon as Francis. But despite such big shoes to fill Gavin says he felt no pressure.

“It was created for James but since then three of us have played the role so we’ve had a chance to put our own stamp on the character,” he says.

“To be honest, it’s never really bothered me partly because I’m enjoying it so much. There are not many lead roles in theatre for someone who is my shape, size and build to get to play – so I feel very fortunate. I love it!”

The One Man, Two Gunvnors tour comes to an end shortly after the week in Wimbledon and Gavin admits he will be sad to say goodbye to Francis.

“I will be sad because it’s such a great role,” he says. “It’s lovely to go out on tour to visit all these places and introduce him to new audiences but I’m looking forward to seeing my wife for more than two nights in a row.

“I’m also looking forward to lying on a beach and letting my body take a break from all this physical activity.”

Talking of which he admits his body has taken a bit of a battering over the last year.

“It’s the most physical role I’ve ever done by a long way,” he chuckles. “The play is just over two hours long and I’m on for most of that time so it’s demanding physically and mentally. It’s really full on.

“My knees are shot, I’ve given myself a black eye and knocked myself out once,” he jokes. “In fact I think I’ve had more injuries than the others who’ve played Francis though I’m not sure why!

“When I’m in Wimbledon I’ll visit a physio called Warwick who will no doubt give me one of those hugs that cracks every bone in my body!”

Physio aside Gavin says he is looking forward to coming back to Wimbledon and to the theatre where he’s performed before.

“I like this part of South London – it’s got a lovely feel to it so it will be great to be back.”

One Man, Two Guvnors is on at the New Wimbledon Theatre, Broadway, Wimbledon between Monday, March 2 and Saturday, March 7. Tickets from £11.90. Visit www.atgtickets.com/wimbledon or call the box office on 0844 871 7646.

Back to 95

FANS of old school House and Garage music are in for a treat this weekend with a special gig at the Great Suffolk Street Warehouse.

Celebrating 14 years of Back To 95, it will see a line up of more than 20 of the decade's favourite DJs and artists including Matt 'Jam' Lamont, Mikee B, Norris ‘The Boss’ Windross, Lifford and Denise Babes Fantastic performing at the Southwark venue.

Lining up for this milestone anniversary occasion and the first Back To 95 event of the year is one of the pioneering godfathers of the garage sound, special guest Todd Edwards, who will deliver a two-hour Oldskool set.

As well as Todd, Ivor Novello award winner Robbie Craig will also be making a star appearance.

Robbie, who was behind one of the biggest garage anthems, Women Trouble, says he's looking forward to the event which he describes as "one big reunion".

"Promoter Mikee Hughes is a friend from way back and I would do any gig he puts on as they are always a good big fun event," he tells me.

"Basically it’s an honour to be part of as the whole garage scene from the 90s is going to be there.

"We started it off and to be there in front of the crowd doing this 20 years later is such a buzz.

"Things have moved on but real ravers always want the pioneers that started it all on stage, so I’m very pleased to be asked to perform. I can't wait!"

The fact Robbie went into the music business is perhaps no surprise as his parents were part of a cabaret band.

From the age of eight he was their drummer and used to get up and sing with them.

"The highlight was me singing Ben by Michael Jackson," he chuckles. "I worked with them until I was 15 and then got noticed. They still do cabaret today in their 60s.

"I got my first record deal with Street Sounds and later on I met Jimmy Lowe.

"He was the head of Public Demand Records, who could do no wrong at the time and they notched up hit after hit.

"They were the strongest garage label of the time and also the most credible so it was great to be one of their leading artists along with Craig David and Artful Dodger."

Since then Robbie's had 11 recored deals and won numerous awards but says he still gets a kick out of playing to the crowds.

"I love it and to play in South London, where I live, is amazing and I'm really excited about this gig."

But he admits that there is still one thing he wants to do - work with Stevie Wonder.

"He's my idol. I’ve worked with so many great artists - Conner Reeves, Craig David, Artful Dodger, Go West, Toby Smith from Jamiroquai, Victoria Beckham and many more - but I'd love to work with Stevie Wonder."

Robbie Craig headlines with a live show at the Back To 95 14th Birthday Party on Saturday March 7 at Great Suffolk Street Warehouse from 10pm to 6am. Tickets cost from £20. Visit www.backto95.com for tickets.

PREVIEW Wink, Battersea Theatre503

ACCORDING to comedian Jenny Eclair, the internet is the “biggest graffiti wall in the sky”. And it is this that has provided her daughter, Phoebe Eclair-Powell and director Jamie Jackson with inspiration and material for their first joint play.

WINK looks at the implications of chatting online, the perils, pitfalls and surprises, and whether we ever know who we are talking to when we do.

Using music, movement and dialogue, it follows the lives of John, a 27-year-old teacher and Mark a 16-year-old pupil and explores what happens when their worlds collide on the web.

It has taken Phoebe and Jamie two years to bring it to the stage and they will do so at Theatre503 in Battersea from Tuesday March 10 for a four week run.

“It’s been a real labour of love,” says Phoebe warmly. “It’s been a bit like a delayed birth as we’ve had this baby for a while, writing and researching it so we’re both nervous and hugely excited that it’s finally going to be staged!

"The story is told through the eyes of a pupil and teacher and how their lives end up becoming more intertwined than is appropriate.

"There are a lot of twists and turns so it’s dramatic and intense but there is also humour in it and we are really proud of it.”

Although the play looks at some of the pitfalls of going online, Phoebe insists it’s not about demonising the internet.

“It’s not a warning play,” she says. “We learn so much from using the internet - and it's such a great and immediate way of communicating and connecting with people.

“But the story is also about chance, fantasy and reality and about the disappointment that comes with the realisation that the reality never lives up to the fantasy."

And Jamie agrees.

“It felt like an opportunity to show to the audience what the reality of going online is like, rather than lecturing people on the dangers,” he says.

"When we did our research we wanted to find those who had had positive experiences of using the internet. We are all familiar with the negative stories but a lot of people who are using it are doing so as a force for good."

“It also shows what it is to be a teenager now and how we as a generation are flailing around finding solace on the internet,” adds Phoebe.

“I’m obsessed with Facebook and Instagram but technology is moving on so fast – some of the teenagers we spoke to are so much more technologically literate than we are and some of the sites they are going on are ones I have never gone on or heard about - it's frightening!

“There is part of you that’s aware of how mad it all is and there are horror stories to make you wary but how do you police a generation who are so adept at using that technology?

“The internet and social media have made communication so immediate and open - there's no privacy - my mum calls it the biggest graffiti wall in the sky which is so true."

Jamie who lives in West Norwood and Phoebe who lives in Camberwell met two years ago at a speed dating night for writers and directors after Phoebe had finished the Royal Court Young Writers Programme and “clicked” immediately.

“We realised we were on the same wavelength and began bouncing ideas off each other,” says Jamie.

“At the time there was a lot in the news about the Miley Cyrus twerking story, Ask FM and the dangers of being on the web, how much people discover by being on the internet and what’s real and what’s not.

"We began to do some research with teenagers – what forums they used, what they used the internet for – and the idea for the play went from there."

Phoebe was chosen to be part of the Battersea theatre's 503Futures programme where she wrote and workshopped WINK and the pair were also given help and support by the Old Vic New Voices programme.

Although it was two years in the making, they say the themes are still relevant.

"What I think is really important is that we are not trying to say you should get rid of the internet but that we all need to be more aware and educated because technology moves so fast it's hard to keep up," says Jamie.

“We can’t turn it off – it’s here and here to stay so we just need to be mindful of how we use it.”

And Phoebe adds: "We are not trying to impose a parable but the message is that it’s up to you as a person how you use what’s there.

“We are trying to show through two characters that it’s down to who you are and the motivations in you - and how the ordinary can end up being extraordinary."

WINK is on at Theatre503, Latchmere Road, Battersea between Tuesday, March 10 and Saturday, April 4. Tickets cost £15 or Pay What You Can on Sundays. Visit www.theatre503.com or call the box office on 020 7978 7040.

INTERVIEW - Nine Below Zero

THERE aren't many bands who can lay claim to the fact they are still going strong after 40 years in the business but one that can is Nine Below Zero.

Formed by guitarist and lead vocalist Dennis Greaves in 1977, they honed their craft in the pubs and clubs of South London before releasing a multitude of albums and touring stadiums around the globe.

Fory years on, and despite a few staff changes over the years, they are still gigging and writing music with their distinctive mix of blues, RnB and rock still as strong as it ever was.

Fans will be able to see two of them - Dennis and vocalist and harmonica player Mark Feltham - perform in a special stripped back set in Blackheath this weekend as part of comedian Arthur Smith's House of Fun extravaganza at Blackheath Halls.

"I've known Arthur for ages and he's a really lovely guy," Dennis tells me. "We did a gig in his house in Balham once. It was brilliant - we were in the kitchen but there was stuff going on all over the house.

"So I was more than up for us being in his show. Besides, it's home turf for me. We've played Blackheath Halls loads of times over the years and we love it. It's such a brilliant and impressive building and we're really excited to be part of it."

As well as the set from Dennis and Mark there will be comedy turns from Arthur, fellow comedian, novelist and actor Jenny Eclair and musicians The McCarricks.

It is the second such event Arthur has organised which he has described as a modern day variety show with him as the "compere beyond compare".

"It's going to be a fun night," says Dennis. "I think Arthur wanted a bit of this and a bit of that - we're one of the musical elements of it!"

And he says he is looking forward to it as it will be a chance for the fans to hear a slightly different musical side to them.

"I'm really excited because Mark and I have been working on a new album, Duo, and we'll be doing some songs from that," he says.

"The album will be released in March so people who come along will get to hear a sneak preview!

"It's an acoustic set and part of a tour we are doing. We've never done a proper acoustic tour before so we thought it would be good to come out from behind our amps - it's going to be lovely - scary but lovely."

The album has been a real labour of love for the pair and is what Dennis describes as a "masterclass".

"Duo is the essence of everything we've ever done," he says. "It's very much about going back to our musical roots.

"We love the sound of the harmonica and we've always been drawn to American blues and folk music.

"So this album is folky with a real emphasis on the harmonica and has been inspired by the bands and musicians we looked up to when we were starting out.

"People like Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee were legends to us. When they played they had an original sense of rhythm. We never really had the guts or talent to play like they did until we finally sat down and studied them - and it's been a real study!" he laughs.

"In fact it's been like a three year university course in how to play it so we now want to show it off and show people what these people were like."

The gig at Blackheath is the first leg of the tour and Dennis is pleased it's happening on his doorstep.

Although born in North London, Dennis's parents migrated south to Elephant & Castle when he was a child. The original plan was to move to Australia but his parents "lost their bottle" and they stayed put.

"I'm glad we never went," he says. "I like being in South London - I've been here more than 30 years and now live near Greenwich Park and Blackheath. It's a great feeling to walk around the parks here. It's a very creative area too with lots of musos."

He went to Walworth School (now Walworth Academy) near the Thomas A Becket pub which was where he decided he wanted to get into music.

"I used to bunk off school and watch them unload the equipment into the pub," he chuckles. "I dreamt of being able to do that and knew very early on I wanted to be in a band. I never went to discos - just to see live music."

He admits it's been "hard graft" but says it's a passion that has never gone away.

"You have to work hard," he says. "But the rewards are great and I feel very lucky that after 35 years in the business we are still going strong and we still have the buzz to write and perform!"

So much so that he can regularly be found in some of the many pubs in the Deptford and Greenwich area that host music nights.

"I love gigging," he says. "I do blues jams around Greenwich promoting local bands and music events all the time.

"I also play regularly at the Duke in Deptford. It's these places where you learn your craft. I was inspired when I was younger by the bands I saw in these places so I hope I can inspire youngsters myself.

"Besides there's nothing better than playing live. The problem is so many of these amazing venues are closing down - even the Coronet at the Elephant is under threat - it's appalling - where are the youngsters going to get their inspiration from? The world's gone crazy.

"When there's live music in a pub or club, people always like to come in and have a nose, join in and have a dance - I don't know what we'll do if they close - we mustn't let that happen."

Arthur Smith's House of Fun featuring Nine Below Zero takes place at Blackheath Halls on Saturday, February 21. Tickets from £15. Visitwww.trinitylaban.ac.uk/blackheath-halls or call the box office on 020 8463 0100 for tickets.