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A warm welcome to "Balloon Chat".
The site is completely "free" to use, so please take your time and look around the forum and enjoy this wonderful world
of ours that is, balloon art. We do hope you like what you see and will actively take part and join in with the forum.
Perhaps it will give you the bug to try twisting for yourself. If so we do have a balloon tutorial section that
has the instructions for some basic designs which will hopefully get you up and running with a list and some
explanations of all the different twists and bubble phrases that are used within the balloon community.
But please be warned, balloon modelling is very addictive.( Link to balloon tutorials)
Joining The Balloon Chat Forum
Please just click on the "Register" button above to activate your account.
Larry Moss is after your votes to help build Elastic Park via the Pepsi "Good Idea" Refresh Project, voting opens for the whole of February and you can vote every
day so giving maximum support, The summary for the project is;
Elastic Park is an exhibit, featuring a unique blend of art, pre- history, and pop culture. The multi-thousand-square-foot, interactive exhibit was inspired by
Michael Crichton’s popular novel, Jurassic Park.
Balloons are the medium used to create the exhibit. The unusual medium draws a very diverse crowd both for the construction phase and the display phase. This is important since all large scale Airigami creations are community based art projects. Community members are invited to participate in the 100,000 balloon creation, working alongside an international crew of skilled artists.
Visitors will walk among the creatures of the Triassic through Cretaceous periods,
as described in Crichton’s work. An audio tour with custom music and actor’s voices will guide everyone through, describing the creatures, the art, and telling
the story. Voting takes place from the 1st/28th February (Link to vote)
Larry also organises Balloon Manor which takes place every year in America.
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Kidology, Children's Magic Convention. 7th September
Balloon chat member Dov Citron from madhouse kids (Link) will be presenting a lecture called, "What A Character!" which is all about character entertainment. Dov will be demonstrating how to theme magic routines, games, balloons, 'call and response activities', music, circus skills and
puppet shows to keep them in-tune with current children's trends, tv shows, hobbies and interests. With the right costume item quickly applied, coupled with appropriate catch phrases you can turn an entertainer into a Pirate, Superhero, Wizard or any number of different popular kids characters, including different approaches to entertaining different age groups.
The great line up to the day, includes major lectures from Alan Shaon, (My kind of kids' show) Craig Petty (Close up magic for kids) and Gary Dunn (Entertaining with nothing)
There is a choice of mini lectures to see from, Dov, Steve Dimmer, Mike Bradshaw and Olly Chaston. This is a must attend event with fifteen dealers who specialise in props for the childrens entertainer. The day is run by Practical Magic/Albion Magic. For more details; (Link)
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| Billy Wiz, Make a Smile Appeal |
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Balloon Chat member, Billy Wiz, (aka Graeme Ash)
is taking his Magic & Balloon Show on a five week tour to Belarus and Ukraine on May 5th 2010.
Billy Wiz visited Belarus for the first time on the 20th anniversary of Chernobyl. During his visit he will tour hospitals, orphanages and village schools performing his magic shows for the children with the help of his balloon modelling bringing smiles and joy to many. |
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| January Sale........ Now On |
Lyn and Graham are having their very first sale, with many items being reduced throughout the website.
How long will the sale be going on for?
Well at least until the13th Jan at the "Care & Share" day that will be taking place in Banstead.
More details about the day; (Link) Price reductions on the website are;
160/260's £3.25, now £2.99. 160/260 metallic £3.75, now £3.49. 360's £5.75, now £4.99.
660's £8.00, now £6.99. With a special offer for three bags of 660 assorted, only £19.00
(Link to website)
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| Twist & Shout 2010, Chicago |
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Twist & Shout for next year is just around the corner with Chigaco, USA being the place to be at, Oak Brook Hills, 17/21st Feb. Featuring over fifteen of the top twisters from around the world to entertain and enlighten everyone in our wonderful world. |
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Featured artistes this year include, Jolene Jang, Debbie Stevens, Jan Iiams, Vicky Kimble, Asi Cohen, Stretch, Jonathan Fudge, Don Caldwell, Todd Neufeld, Rick Mohr, Randy Zacks, Smarty Pants, Melissa Gjergji, Tonya McNeil whose balloon art features in the pictures above. And last but not least there will be some old guy from Scotland, you know what's is name, the one that no one can understand..................I remember now my good friend Colin Myles. So with plenty going on it should be a fun filled experience for everyone. For more information and booking details; (Link to website)
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| Marie Dadow (Just Marie) ..................My Secret Adventure |
Marie Kindly sent this story in to share. So, I'm sitting in Craft Services, eating this delicious caprese sandwich, staring at the large monitor in front
of me showing that sparkling "V"-shaped stage knowing that in less than
one hour, not only will Super Model Heidi Klum, several of the most gorgeous models in the world and The Black Eyed Peas be appearing on it, but MY balloon creations!......... How did this happen?!
Just over a week ago, I received a call and was invited to New York City
to create a balloon dress for The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. Before I even had my itinerary, they had changed TWO outfits. I'm a little fuzzy on the exact details of the conversation because I was so excited, I never even got the name of the person I had been speaking to - I did eventually get it!
The morning after I arrived, I met with the head designers of the show. OMG, what amazingly talented people! When I entered the room with the entire product and several of the other pieces from the show, I was so incredibly intimidated. Rhinestones, crystals and feathers EVERYWHERE!! There were some of the most gorgeous pieces I'd ever seen in my life. Sparkle, glitz and glimmer to spare! Even with the magnificence of all
this work, they were treating me like I was their peer.
I just kept thinking to myself, "But I only make dresses from BALLOONS!"
To read more about the story(Link)
And for Marie's website just click on the picture;
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"The Real Secrets To Making A Good Living
As A Childrens Entertainer" Wed 18th November in Birmingham
Have you always thought you could be a childrens entertainer or would you like help in improving your already well established act, then this day could well be just what you've been looking for? Mike Ingham (Micky The Magician) and Graham Lee with all thier years of experience are holding a full days instructional workshop on entertaining children, including all the real secrets about what and how to entertain chidren while having great fun yourself. They will even be explaining and giving away their own acts which have kept them both very busy and in demand for many years. More details about the day can be found here; (Link to More info) |
| Balloon & Clown Convention, China. |
The Millennium Jam |
Clown and Balloon Festival, China
Graham Lee is off yet again on his world travels, for someone who is not very keen on
flying he seems to be geting around quite a lot lately. He flys off on the 28th September to Shanghai for the international balloon and clown festival (1st-8th Oct) where he will be performing his balloon magic act; (Link to website ) in the balloon fashion shows which will be taking place every evening throughout the week long festival. This is the second
time Graham has ben invited to perform at the festival where 15 of the top european balloon artistes will all be performing, including, Bidou, Willie Monroe, Tom Saeys,
Kokof, Todd Neufeld and Suzanne Haring.
FOR OVER 250 PICTURES FROM THE EVENT AND A LITTLE BLOG. (Link ) |
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Dov, Flying High
One of our balloon chat members, Dov Citron (Link to website)
aka Captain Calamity is certainly having a very good month. It started off for him getting a call to entertain at Rocco and David's party, these are Madonna and Guy Ritchie's children and then as if that wasn't enough he got the call to go and entertain at number 11 Downing Street to help publicise the seventh anniversary of the Children's
trust fund. All the events have gone really well and Dov is very
much looking forward to entertaining more stars in the future.
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| Friends of David, A Tribute DVD |
Diamond Jam 2009 |
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The friends of David DVD was in stock for a very short time but sold
out within 24 hours, we will try to
get the dvd back in stock ASAP.
The DVD is a collection from eleven top international balloon artistes who have got together to celebrate the life
of one of the world's top twisters. Colin Myles, Rie Hosokai, Ralph Dewey, Don Caldwell, Bidou, Ed Chee, Marvin Hardy Alberto Falcone, Larrt Moss, Ken Stillman and Royal Sorell. All monies raised from the
sale of this DVD will go to the Grist family. (Link to DVD) |
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Graham Lee is just back from his
travels over the pond to America.
To read an extensive write up on diamond jam 2009 and to find out
what went wrong this time with his flight adventures etc.
(Link to write up)
Pictured left are the winning dresses from the balloon fashion show which were designed by Sofie Vandewyer
and Rie Hosokai.For the first time
ever there were joint winners from a really great line up of some stunning dresses. For more reviews with over
150 pictures just click on the link above. |
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David Grist DVD Sale
Starting from the 1st Sept for a limited period only we will be offering a 10% reduction on all of David's DVD's. From Vol 1 through to 9 and the full complete set as well. A single copy will be £18 with the full set at an anazing low price of only £135. This is a fantastic balloon modelling set that takes you right from the basic beginings up to David's award winning weaving techniques with the big sculptures, a must for every balloon artiste to have in their collection.
All money raised from the sale of these DVD's will go to David's family. (Link to DVD's)
The David Grist Memorial Lecture 2010
Once again we will be inviting over from the USA one of the world's leading balloon artistes
to run the hands on lecture/workshop early in the new year.(Link to lecture) |
Danny at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival
"Circo Ridiculoso" and Pleasance present "Lighter than air" at this year's Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Come and see live wild balloon taming at,
The Pleasance Above, Venue 33, 5th - 30th August (not 17 or 24)
Danny has been touring around the country all year to get the show at
the peak of its performance.
So before Danny goes international and hits the big time.
Come and see the show! Book tickets on 0131 556 6550.
Enter the strange and bizarre universe of a wild balloon tamer where
surreal and stupid things happen. Combining circus and comedy,
performer and clown Danny Schlesinger creates an utterly joyous
experience loaded with surprises and laughs. Warning! Features loud
balloon pops. For everyone over the age of four.
Circo Ridiculoso and Pleasance present
LIGHTER THAN AIR at Pleasance Above, venue 33,
Edinburgh Fringe Festival
5-30th August (not 17 & 24th)
BOX OFFICE: 0131 5566550 |
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Levett and Lee On The Road
Thelma Levett and Graham Lee completed a photo shoot on the 28th July for Esquire magazine (Link to magazine) at the Hoxton Street Studios. After getting the story board and with only a few days working on the ideas it was time to see if they had interpreted the thoughts of the magazine and photographer. The day was a great success with everyone at the shoot appreciating our wonderful balloon art form. The October publication will be out and in the shops on Sept 14th with a
nine page spread related to fashion using balloon art.
For more pictures and to see why the skeleton was made
in two contrasting colours. (Link to the forum). |
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| Danny's Amazing Balloon Show, "Lighter Than Air" |
“How anyone can be that funny with a few balloons and few words I'll never know, but he is.
This is just one of those shows you should borrow a child to come and see with.
I'd be hard pressed to say which of you will enjoy it more!”
Pam Hardiman, Deputy Director, Gulbenkian Theatre.
Come and see Danny's fantastic show next at:
Saturday 27th June at the Burton Taylor Studio, Oxford Playhouse, Shows at 11am and 2pm
Saturday 11th July Bradon Forest School, Purton, Wiltshire - Show at 6pm
Sunday 19th July at the Pleasance, Islington London, shows at 11am and 2pm
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| Sabina Kellner, Loop Technique |
The "Levett and Lee" Roadshow |
About the technique, Loop weaving is
a strong technique with an interesting structure, imitating scales, leaves or feathers. Balloon artistes who like 160's as much as Sabina does will love to play around with this loop weaving idea.
Contents of the book,
The booklet has step-by-step instructions and helpful tips on how to make,
1,
loop weaving in a line.
2, loop weaving in a circle.
3, flat loop weaving.
As well as selected balloon figures for each technique, snake, heart, flower, vase and an elaborate parrot and mermaid.
(The instructions assume you have basic twisting skills)
(Link for more details and to order) |
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Thelma Levett and Graham Lee
who are two of the Uk's most experienced balloon twisters are giving away all the hints, tips and tricks of the trade.
Birmingham, Wed 22nd July
Banstead, Wed 21st October
Leeds, Wed 25th November.
The idea of the days is to give everyone the basic knowledge to get a good understanding of what makes the balloon industry such a unique and fun place to work in. Everything will be covered during this full day hands on lecture/workshop from the basic animals, one balloon wonders, hats and quick, easy and Impressive models. The day will include full details of all the balloon twisting terminology from ear twists to apple twist and side wall bubble to an art twist and what they are used for and what can be made from all of these twists. This is a fun day not to be missed and will benefit even the more experienced twister. More details; (Link) |
| The Millennium Jam Nov 10/12th. |
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The brand new millennium jam website will be going live later today with all the
details for this 10th anniversary edition. This is the one convention not to be missed.
The plans and format for this year are slightly different than usual due to the
economic climate but no doubt it will still be an excellent balloon convention run by
Leo and Johan from IBS Balloons, with no doubt Tim running around like a headless
chicken doing all the work as normal!! (Link to TMJ website) |
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| Graham Lee DVD 3 "A Romantic Twist" |
| Don Caldwell. America's Number one twister, UK tour dates. |
The great news is that Don Caldwell is confirmed and will be coming over to the UK for two dates, Friday 29th May in Banstead, Surrey and Wednesday 3rd June in Birmingham. The Banstead day will be focusing on Don's performance Lecture "The Buster Balloon Show Live!" This is the real deal, nothing held back. Don Caldwell takes you into the world of his famous alter-ego, Buster Balloon. You will see Don's
45 minute family show in it's entirety, then strip it down beat by beat in a Q&A session to discover what makes a successful balloon show tick. After lunch the fun continues with Don teaching several of his other favorite original balloon gags, tricks, and routines that are not currently in his show. Having seen the workshop at twist & shout in February this is definately one not too miss.
Then it's on to Birmingham for; "The David Grist Memorial Lecture" (More Info)
What Don will be including in this full day hands on lecture/workshop........... "The Best of Mad Hatz & Wild Wearables"
The workshop will feature Don's favorite, and most popular wearable creations. From the stupidly simple, to huge show stoppers,
these are the pieces that Don uses in his every day work and the pieces that he counts on to always deliver. You will also learn
Don's secret presentation tips for getting even more impact out of your sculptures. And yes, there will be a few sculptures that
Don has not released before. More details on the days and to book; (Link to Don Caldwell)
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| Thelma, Bonnie and Petra are kept busy with new CD's |
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Thelma, Bonnie and Petra have all brought out new instructional CD discs in the last few weeks. Thelma's, "A little bit more" is a follow on to her other excellent CD's with some slightly more advanced models being shown with the eagle, doll and tigger being probably my favourite on the disc and the flat heart is definitely very usable. Bonnie kindly sent over her class notes from the G.O.T mini convention that she attended the other week as the star lecturer. The cheetah is worth the price of the CD alone, this is my favourite on the disc but there are plenty of others to keep you interested, especially the lion. Petra's first CD "Heartfigures" has a selection of twelve models which all incorporate the use of a heart balloon. The elephant, ballerina/mermaid are very nice with the chicken being cute. All three discs are well presented and laid out with very easy to follow instructions. To contact Bonnie just send her a PM through the forum and to purchase either of Thelma or Petra's CD's just click on the link (Link to buy)
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| Diamond Jam 2009, Las Vegas 13/15th August |
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Diamond Jam "Celebrating The Art Of Twisting" Is back in Las Vegas for the second year since Dave Scott took over the running of this event from Ed Chee and moved it from Phoenix. There is an abundance of quality balloon artistes attending to teach, including; Ken Stillman, Colin Myles, Stretch, Patrick van de Ven, Patricia Bunnell, Ed Chee, Bidou,
Robbie Furman, Ralph Dewey. It's like a who's who from the balloon world for this three day twisting event taking place on the 13/15th August. Then on Sunday 16th it's the balloon dress fashion show, some of last years entries are, on the left a dress made by Debbie Stevens and Colin Myles entry on the right. This is then followed by "summer balloon camp" for
the balloon decorators from the 16/18th Aug. Diamond Jam certainly
has something for everyone. More details on the events, classes and registration can be found on the official website;(Link to Diamond Jam)
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| Kidology, Children's magic convention. 8th September 2009 |
A really good day out is the only UK children's magic convention which is being held on Tuesday 8th Sept at
the civic and wulfrun halls in Wolverhampton. The convention is planned for mid-week so that the professional entertainers can attend
and is run by Jeremy and Cheryl from Practical Magic (Link) and Alex Powell from Albion Magic (Link) |
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There are fifteen dealers from across the country attending and four lectures planned; Michael Fitch, Kid's Cabaret.
Derek Lever, Children's magic
props through the ages
Ali Cadabra (pictured left)
Walkaround magic for children and
Michael Diamond, Halloween magic.
For more details and to book;
(Link to Kidology) |
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G.O.T Mini Balloon Convention 2009
Stretch Clendennen is organising the gathering of twisters convention that will be taking place at the, All American Balloons, Arlington, Texas on the 30th/31st March this year with 10 classes on offer, including Decor, twisting, facpainting and deco/twisting. Bonnie Davis (Link to portfolio) one of our balloon chat members is the star attraction for the convention and will be teaching two
classes that have been especially prepared for the convention. Others that will be teaching are, Stretch, Linda Berman, Diane Gauthier and Sharon Hodges.
For more details about the event and booking details, (Link to convention)
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Happy Birthday Balloon Chat, 1st Anniversary 15th March
We're having some competitions to celebrate the forum, www.balloonchat.co.uk being one year old today.
There are two competitions, with one of them to encourage all those members that are still to post
for the first time onto the site. For more details and to see the prizes on offer; (Link to competition) |
"The Real Secrets To Making A Good Living
As A Childrens Entertainer"
Have you always thought you could be a childrens entertainer or do you just
want help in improving your already well established act, then this day could
well be just what you've been looking for?
Mike Ingham (Micky The Magician) and Graham Lee with all thier years of experience are holding a full days instructional workshop on entertaining children, including all the real secrets about what and how to entertain chidren while having great fun yourself.
They will even be explaining and giving away their own acts which have kept them both very busy and in demand for many years. More details about the
day can be found here; (Link to More info)(Link to booking info) |
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Thelma Levett, New CD. Nice and Easy
The long awaited sequel to Thelma's first and very successful CD was released last weekend at the Blackpool
magic convention to great acclaim. On the new CD are detailed and very easy to follow instructions for some
really great designs, including the Penguin which is now a true classic in the balloon modelling world.
Also explained are; Dove, Cow, Snail, Butterflies, Bald Eagle, Owl, Lion/Tiger, Frog in a rowing boat, Tweety Birds.
For more details about the CD; (Link to more info on Thelma's CD)
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Twist and Shout, Los Angeles 2009 |
Lighter Than Air, by circo ridiculoso
This is another chance to see Danny on tour with his brilliant balloon mime show which is suitable for the whole family. Danny is an eccentric performer of physical comedy. Not only is he an expert in eccentricity, he is also a visual poet, a certified fool,
a multi-talented modern vauderville artist and a wild rubber tamer but on top of all this he is a very nice guy too!
The show is a must see so don't forget to put the dates in your diary. (Link to details). Danny the Idiot.
"A master of his own particular brand of tomfoolery" The Stage Newspaper
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7th February - Norden Farm, Maidenhead, Berkshire - Shows at 11am & 3pm
8th February - South Street, Reading, Berkshire - Shows at 11.30am & 2pm
14th February - The Old Town Hall, Hemel Hempstead - Show at 2pm, followed by balloon workshop
15th February - Watermans Arts Centre, Brentford, Middlesex - Show at 3pm
7th March - The Clocktower, Croydon, Surrey - Show at 2.30pm
21st March - Nuffield Theatre, Southampton, Hampshire - Show at 1pm
22nd March - New Theatre Royal, Portsmouth, Hampshire - Show at 2pm
28th March - The Studio, Broadway Theatre, Catford, London - Show at 11.30am
29th March - Arts Depot, Finchley, North London - Shows at 12pm & 3pm
8th April,The Arts Centre, Darlington, County Durham Show at 2.30pm, followwed by balloon workshop
9th April,Lamplight Arts Centre, Stanley, County Durham Show time TBC, followed by balloon workshop
10th April - The Maltings, Berwick-on-Tweed, Northumberland - Shows at 12pm & 3pm
11th April - The Rosehill Theatre, Whitehaven, Cumbria Show time TBC, followed by balloon workshop
12th April - Town Hall, Selby, North Yorkshire - Show time TBC
14th April - Brindley Arts Centre, Runcorn, Cheshire - Shows at 11am & 2pm
16th April - The Puppet Theatre, Norwich, Norfolk - Show at 2.30pm
17th April - New Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk - Shows at 11am & 2pm
19th April - The Arts Centre, Salisbury, Wiltshire - Show at 11am, followed by balloon modelling
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Britains Got Talent
Coming back for yet another series and forum member Dennis Dillinger will be designing
a mini me balloon fairy for Pat who is a comedian/poet and will be enterring the competition this year as a fairy. The planned auditions for Newcastle last wek have been moved up to Edinburgh so keep your eyes glued to see if Dennis gets some air time later on in the year.
Pictured with the said sculpture is Dennis's young grand-daughter Tegan.
(Link to website).Dennis Dillinger
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Danny Joins The Balloon Chat Team
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Although it's a small team at the moment, well it's just doubled with Danny coming on board and next year's christmas office party will be so much better. I'm pleased to say that Danny has agreed to join the balloon chat team and be another pair of hands and eyes on the admin side of the forum, with his youthful boyish enthusiasm I'm sure he will be a great help and asset in the day to day running of the site, so big hugs and a warm welcome Danny.
"I'm honoured that Graham has asked me to help him with Balloon Chat. I have no idea what
it entails. But I look forward to helping this brilliant resource for balloon twisters grow.
I come from a performing background and have always done simple balloons. In 2006 I went
to TMJ and saw that really anything is possible to make out of balloons. And since then I have been striving to improve my balloon art. The balloon community is great - It always helps knowing your not the only one with a difficulty, knowing where to turn to and who could help with your balloon related dilema. I also find I learn so much, new figures, ways of doing and thinking about things. So I am happy to help Graham out. Keep Chatting!
Really looking forward to seeing a few of you at the first performance workshop of the year
in Leeds on the 25th March that I will be running" (Link to details). Danny the Idiot.
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Thelma Levett, Joins the Sempertex bandwagon
I’m absolutely pleased, delighted, chuffed and honoured to tell
you all that Thelma, that little pocket dynamo who is one of the best kept secrets in the balloon modelling world has decided to come on board and help promote the Sempertex balloon brand around the UK.
Helping out more at the “Care and Share” days and working
the big magic conventions with her expertise, creativity and enthusiasm she's bound to be a great hit and asset to all of us.
Thelma who wears her heart on her sleeve and is most
definitely one of the top balloon modelling artistes in the UK,
if not the world. Thelma has incredible enthusiasm for our
balloon art and her mind never switches off from creating her balloon masterpieces. Her creativity just seems to be so endless with new models, designs and techniques being thought up daily and to top it all she is also just a lovely lady and so much fun to
be around.
Thelma is so modest about her talents, but I finally got her to
write a little intro into her life in latex, with a bit of arm twisting. |
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Thelma's Story,
“I must be one of the longest serving, totally hooked balloon twisters with the least things to say about myself with regards to milestones. Just plodded along in my small world and thoroughly enjoyed thinking up new ways to play and new ways to create with balloons. I picked up my first bag of balloons in 1994, goodness 14 years ago!! How time flies, I was introduced to balloons by an entertainer called Terry Box. He was running a disco at a party where I was face painting and kindly suggested that I could expand my repertoire by offering balloon modelling. I purchased a book on basic models and a bag of balloons and ploughed through it in a couple of days. The best way to describe the experience is to say I found my thing. It was love at first twist and felt like I was made to do balloons but just didn’t know it till I bought that first bag. Within a couple of days I had done everything in the book and was feeling the need to do something more interesting. Within a week I had started designing my own balloons. 14 years later I am still constantly designing. It is an addiction. One of the very first models I designed was the penguin you see all over the place. Due to my financial circumstances, I did not buy any books or any other educational materials. I did not know any other balloon artists; all the people I met were only interested in making the basic dogs and swords. This was frustrating and I could not understand how anyone could have a material with such potential and not want to improve. It was not that I didn’t want to be influenced by any outside source but I think it was very good for me to have no pointers. It made me think and develop and I found my own style. Sometimes one misses the obvious though when twisting on your own and that is the beauty of getting together at a “Care and Share” day or balloon convention, a luxury I didn't have till 2001. I went to the Blackpool Magic Convention a couple of times and made models there when selling a book I had published but apart from that and a couple of balloon lectures for some magic societies I spent 6 years twisting in isolation more or less. By 2001 I was able to travel to the Millennium Jam where I experienced a total mind blast. I normally shy away from competitions and when pushed to do them I feel like the smallest person in the room. (Yes I know!!! I probably am the smallest person in the room but I feel even smaller in competition mode) Leo bullied/cajoled me into entering a competition for the first time and I came third. I personally wasn’t happy with the design but it got me my first trophy ever, which was nice.
My business is a success with a constant flow of work coming in and an extremely good reputation. I take great pride in doing a first class job every time and treating each booking as the special event that it is for the people who have booked me. I do face painting, music, games and magic shows as well as the balloons and it is for the whole party I am known and not just the balloons. But the balloon art is my joy.
I don't have a string of awards to tell you about, I just plod on in the background not making a lot of noise about myself and not getting noticed but I do so love designing and giving myself those little challenges. I saw Terry at an event I attended recently and he took great delight in telling everyone that he got me started and taught me everything I know, I just smiled. Well I wonder if I would be doing balloons if it were not for him. Lately I have not been so obviously active because I have been doing a lot of writing up and getting my gallery ready for the web site. And producing my very first CD publication “Two and a bit” with loads more designs being put onto CD and possibly a DVD as well in the near future.
In fact I just finished sorting out all the photos for the gallery on my new website, which hopefully will be launched in the very near future. Now I have to decide on the look of the main page and get the layout cleaned up. When the website is up and running I’ll announce it here on balloon chat"
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Krazy Kev, TV Appearance on Sky One.
Krazy Kev who is a balloon chat member will be appearing several times on Sky one TV over the festive period, 6.oo pm Christmas eve & repeated at 4.oo pm Christmas day in “Noel’s Christmas Presents” which was filmed on 23rd November
in the North East.
Part of the show was in aid of the flood victims & community of Morpeth who were devastated by the flooding over the
past couple of years. Filming took place at the New Life Centre in Morpeth and was all kept hush hush from the residents,
it was only on the day of filming that people realised something was happening.
Among the guests were Noel Edmonds, Zoë Salmon a blue peter presenter, Sooty and Sweep and not forgetting the ever smiling Same Difference from last years X factor, who Kev says are just lovely people. He has met them before and they don't change - always smiling.
Kev was kept very busy all day making balloons for everyone that attended the day & rubbing shoulders and making some balloons for the celebrities as well. The five foot high Santa was the hit of the day pictured below with Noel Edmonds.
More details about Krazy Kev can be found on his all new and re-vamped website; (Krazy Kev)
A quote from Kev;
”it was a fab day and I would love the chance to do it all again as it was for such a good cause and brought lots of smiles
to a community that was devastated by the flood water in recent times.”
  
Twist & Shout Balloon Convention 5th to 8th Feb
2009
Balloon Chat at the MILLENNIUM JAM, 2/6th NOVEMBER 2008
Leo and Johan from IBS balloons (ibs-balloons) started to put this event on in 2000 at the Sunparks holiday resort in Mol, Belgium, hence the name “The Millennium Jam” and in the nine years it has grown from around a 100 people at that very first event into the worlds most prestigious balloon modelling convention in the world attracting over 300 people from all over the world, from 23 different countries for this years convention.
The awards are looked upon in the balloon industry as the pinnacle of out art form in balloon twisting and performance. |
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“What a week ... this was absolutely fantastic." Tony Twist
“I feel overwhelmed with what I have just experienced, very special”
Richard Masters
“Personally I can't afford not to go. I have been once before and it completely inspired me.”
Danny Schlesinger |
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Fashion Show winner, Sophie Vandewyer and Koen
One Balloon Model, Pieter van Engen
Multi Balloon Sculpture, Patrick van de Ven
Stage Show, Manon Dudziak
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My thoughts on TMJ done from memory, will have a look through my note book when I get time to see what else I may have missed off;
To start off it was absolutely excellent and as I always say, a life changing experience.
For those that don't know I took an organised trip with nine people going over on Eurostar with two more meeting us there.
So if you'd like to join us next year for the best balloon convention in the world, as they say stay tuned...
The industry award evening was very good with some excellent balloon acts and a very nice buffet.
Tom with some help from Rafael were the compeers for the evening and what an excellent job they both done. The audience seemed to warm to them straight away in a difficult setting for the acts.
The show was excellent with everyone around me seeming to have a great time laughing and joining in, and we were sitting at the back.
So what did I see?
From memory and no particular order;
Dave Bartlett
No balloons but absolute golden nuggets of information for the working pro. For me probably the best lecture for information that I've sat through.
Tomate
Some very good information on trying to find your character on stage and how to develop it. Some good advice for those just starting out on this road.
Addi Somekh
What a great class, full of energy. Addi's so loud even without a microphone, hats and wings is what was talked about and I know from others reactions that this class was great fun, enjoyable with a lot of very good information passed on.
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Don Caldwell
The lecture on magic and balloons being very informative with lot's of very good and usable ideas.
Don seemed so much more comfortable in this class which was later on in the week compared to his wrist friend lecture earlier in the week, perhaps he got to know a few people or maybe he's at his best when performing which is what he did in this lecture.
This lecture and Dave Bartlett's were my favourite from this year's list.
Sean Rooney
Sean is a real talent and I watched just one of his classes, getting a bubble in a balloon but just so that others that sat in the class know that I was listening, it perhaps should have been called according to Sean as getting a balloon around a bubble.
Sean is very informative and a few of us during the week spent a nice time with him having a coffee and discussing balloon related ideas, this was another highlight of the week for me.
Fashion Show
The fashion show was amazing, I don't think any words could do it justice; you just had to be there (Full Stop)
Tom and Rafael again done a great job compeering, Tom did make perhaps some border line remarks which did get an intake of breath from the audience and I too was fortunate??? To get a mention here as well.
The Thursday Night Gala Show
There was no stage competition this year and I think two acts competed within this gala show for stage performer of the year.
Manon won the title this year with an act that would take quite a while to set and build but she has wonderful mime skills and is a joy to watch, 75% of the act was new to me and as she told me, it's "very crazy" |
For more details and pictures about this event checkout; (Links to forum)
More details about the millennium jam can be found on there site, Click the link balloon to vist (millenniumjam) |
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“We're having a party” |
To celebrate the fact that Sempertex Balloons have
been sponsoring Graham Lee's “Care and Share”
balloon fundays we've decided to hold a party. All
are welcome and it's free. There are limited spaces
so please book online ASAP. Click the link balloon
for more details;
(Sempertexballoons.co.uk)
Due to a technical issue on the site we have to
charge you 10p to book but this will be refunded on
the day.
Tuesday 25 th November in Halesowen
Birmingham.
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The day will run similar to a care and share day 10 till 6 but the whole day is mapped out with two mystery lecturers, a session on bit's of business with balloons and two competitions, the one balloon model and making a hat.
We will also be selling raffle tickets to promote Graeme Ash (BillyWiz) and his “Make A Smile” appeal, click the link balloon for more details;
(billywiz.biz/smile) Graeme goes over to Belarus every year to the orphanages and cancer hospitals, this really is a great cause so please try and give so that Graeme can carry on with his “Make a smile” trips.
The plan of action for the day so far is, although those that know me will understand that sometimes things don't quite run to plan but I will try my best for the party………..honest
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So the plan of action at the moment for the day is;
11..oo till 12.oo Mystery lecturer one
12 .3o till 1.oo One balloon competition
1.oo till 2.oo Get yourself some lunch
If anyone would like to bring some food along could you get in touch so that we get a nice even spread of everything for a party.
Lyn is making a couple of cakes.
2.oo til 2.3o Balloon "bits of business"
2.3o til 3.3o Mystery lecturer two
4.oo til 4.3o Hat competition
4.30 til 5.oo Raffle winners and Award ceremony for winners of the competitions
Don't forget that after we go out for a meal, all are welcome.
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We're having a party celebrating three years of sponsorship by Sempertex Balloons,
for more details about the day & the full venue address. (Party Link)) |
| Circo Ridiculoso presents Lighter than Air |
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Enter the strange and rather bizarre universe of a wild balloon tamer, where surreal and stupid things happen. Seamlessly combining circus, physical theatre and silent comedy, first-class performer and consummate clown, Danny Schlesinger, creates an utterly joyous experience loaded with participation, surprises and laughs.
"Hilarious and poignant physical comedy" Time Out
"A master of his own particular brand of tomfoolery" The Stage
"Moving, beautiful and very funny" Barney Jeavons, West End Centre, Aldershot
"Charming poetic, and skilful as it is silly, both full of heart and absolutely hilarious."
Amanda Huotari, Celebration Barn Theater, Maine, USA
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Lighter than Air is for family audiences aged 4+. It is highly visual, original, gentle, yet anarchic clowning and is suitable for the deaf, hearing impaired and non-English speakers, fans of comedy and circus, physical theatre, clown, balloons, and musical saw, and families.
Running time: approx 55 minutes.
| Where can you see this show? |
Autumn 2008:
October 12th - The Albany Deptford, 3pm
Box Office 020 8692 0231 www.thealbany.org.uk
October 25th - The Egg, Bath, 11.30am and 3pm
Box Office 01225 823409 www.theatreroyal.org.uk/the-egg
November 9th - Jackson's Lane, Highgate 3pm
Box Office 020 8341 4421 www.jacksonlane.org.uk
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November 16th - Stratford Circus, East London, 12pm show & walkabout
Box office 020 8279 1015 www.stratford-circus.com < http://www.stratford-circus.com/ >
November 23rd - Blue Elephant Theatre, Camberwell, London 3pm show & balloon workshop
Box Office 020 7701 0100 www.blueelephanttheatre.co.uk |
If you can't make it to these shows, please have a look at the online video clip of the show: (youtube clip)
Website: www.CircoRidiculoso.com
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| Small two way pumps are also back in stock. |
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We have a few bags of fashion assorted 6" hearts with some lovely colours available. |
Balloon Chat will be having a stand at Kidology,
the children's magic convention in Wolverhampton on Tuesday 9th Sept.More details; (Practical Magic)
This is always a good day with lot's going on.
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