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Greenbelt Blog

• May 16, 2012
• 10:45

  Walter Wink

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  When Walter Wink died last Thursday (10 May, 2012), Greenbelt lost one of its most powerful and prophetic theological influences. Below, just two of those involved in the festival in the past who had the privilege of hearing and working with Walter remember him and celebrate his legacy. There will be hundreds more with similar stories to tell.

  Garth Hewitt (founder of Amos Trust)

  I was sad to hear the news of Walter Wink’s death. I felt that it was a great privilege that we had him several times at Greenbelt. I was strongly influenced by hearing his talks and by reading his books such as “Naming the Powers”, “Unmasking the Powers” and “Engaging the Powers”. I read books of his on no- violence and transforming Bible study – and many will have been very helpfully influenced by his book on “Homosexuality and the Christian Faith.” For me I heard him at the right time and I began to understand the incredible significance of a gospel of non-violence that rejects the myth of redemptive violence and that speaks truth to the powers. Many others will have been equally moved by him.

  Strangely, one of the moments that had the deepest impact on me was when I wandered into the back of a seminar and it was a question time and somebody asked him about a passage in St Matthew’s gospel and he replied: “Yes, I think Matthew was wrong on this.” It was one of those enlightening moments when I thought, “We can say that?!” It opened me up to a far more creative and liberating view of the Bible. It’s a moment for which I am very grateful.

  Martin Evans (former Greenbelt festival manager)

  The importance of Walter Wink’s ‘The Powers’ trilogy cannot be underestimated. It has made an immense contribution to our understanding of our relationships with each other, with institutions and with God. But remember Walter most as a human being. Walter was warm, funny, and totally and utterly – in a gentle, twinkling way – challenging. His unique contribution was a deep understanding of the interface between theology and the psyche. The Powers trilogy will play an important role in understanding the human condition for a long time to come, and he will be greatly missed.

  For me, being a part of the Greenbelt family has been such a privilege. You get to meet, listen to and share with, the most extraordinary and thrilling bunch of people, who possess deep humanity and fantastic ideas. Walter was one of this bunch. He will be remembered with love, warmth and continuing excitement – because of his ideas and his humanity. Our prayers and thoughts are with June, his wife.

  
• May 11, 2012
• 13:30

  Paradise: Lost & Found - Full lineup and ticket offers

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Paradise: Lost & Found is now just over a week away, and we’re pleased to have tickets available at £5 for the first fifty people to buy.

  It’s sure to be a great event – ten speakers giving short talks about how we lost Paradise and how we might be able to reclaim it once more.

  Giving short-form talks are Tamsin Omond, Ann Pettifor, Lucy Winkett, Rose Hudson Wilkin, Paul Vallely, Abdul Rehman Malik, Symon Hill, Christopher Barnatt, Martin Wroe and Peter Graystone. For more information on our speakers, and the titles of their talks, see the event page »

  We’re also offering the first fifty tickets for £5 – on a first come first served basis. You don’t have to do anything special – just head to the online box office to make your purchase »

  Subsequent tickets are £10, and all tickets can be booked without booking fee.

  We look forward to seeing you there!

  
• May 10, 2012
• 11:00

  Flags and Bunting for Greenbelt 2012

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Greenbelt’s talented Site Vibing team turn a Racecourse into a place fit for a celebration – and you can take part in the buildup by contributing bunting and flags in advance of the festival…

  Once again, Site Vibing co-ordinator Saga Arpino has fabric bundles ready for people to make into bunting and simple flags.

  FLAGS

  The rainbow of flags now stretches across the Grandstand, but we still need more to fill in the gaps and make it even more impressive. The flags measure 1.2m by 0.8m and need hemming on four edges. The fabric has been pre-cut, so if you have a little time and a sewing machine, this is a simple job. We’re looking for six people to take on forty flags each – it should take about four hours. Email vibing@greenbelt.org.uk if you’re able to help…

  BUNTING

  Add your contribution to over 1km of bunting hung around the site. We can provide fabric, or if you’d like to source your own, follow this simple pattern – contact vibing@greenbelt.org.uk for more information, tips, and where to send your contribution once it’s made.

  If you can sew, but don’t have a sewing machine, and would still like to take part, come into our office and use ours! Let us know when you’re available by emailing vibing@greenbelt.org.uk, and we’ll supply tea, biscuits and travel expenses.

  We need all completed flags and bunting to be back with us by Monday 9 July – so get sewing, and thanks again for helping us make our site a wonderful place to be!

  
• May 04, 2012
• 0:00

  Tamsin Omond, Ann Pettifor and Lucy Winkett amongst speakers confirmed for Paradise Lost & Found

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  On Sunday 20th May, we’re are pleased to host an afternoon of thought-provoking short talks from economists, campaigners, writers and thinkers.

  The event aims to start discussion around Greenbelt’s theme for 2012 – Saving Paradise. Each of the ten speakers will be offering ideas around how paradise was lost, and how it might be possible to recover it again.

  Contributors include environmental campaigner Tamsin Omond, economist Ann Pettifor, Speaker’s chaplain Rev Rose Hudson-Wilkin, author and Greenbelt trustee Martin Wroe, St James Piccadilly’s Canon Lucy Winkett, writer and campaigner Symon Hill of Ekklesia, writer and activist Paul Vallely, journalist Abdul-Rehman Malik and Professor of Computing Christopher Barnatt.

  The event starts at 14.30 and tickets cost just £10.

  Find out more or buy tickets from the Greenbelt Box Office »

  
• May 03, 2012
• 17:30

  Introducing Greenbelt Ambassadors

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  What makes Greenbelt special isn’t necessarily the programme or the venues, it’s the people. We’re always keen to get new people, with fresh perspectives, to join our diverse gathering…

  That’s why we’re now launching our Ambassadors scheme – a new way of encouraging our faithful supporters to help spread the word.

  If you can help – if there are people you know would get something out of the festival and would make our annual celebration even brighter – then we’d like to invite you to become a Greenbelt Ambassador.

  The scheme will hopefully develop in years to come, but for this year we’d like to focus on growing a network and providing Greenbelt enthusiasts with resources to help spread the word. You’ll receive a festival DVD, posters, leaflets and special offers and we’ll be on hand to answer any questions.

  If you’re interested, fill in your details on this form, and a Greenbelt goody bag will be on it’s way shortly…

  
• May 02, 2012
• 13:00

  Hospitality. Learning. And Pilgrimage.

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  or Why Greenbelt is a lot like St Alban’s Cathedral

  Yesterday, the Greenbelt staff team enjoyed its annual day out of the office together. It’s a chance for a change of scene and a different perspective. Last year we went to Kew Gardens. Yesterday we went to St Alban’s Cathedral. While we were there, what struck me is that the Cathedral and its long history demonstrate three of the characteristics I hope Greenbelt does, too.

  • St Alban’s Cathedral aims to offer hospitality to all. Those of all faiths and none and those of all backgrounds. It provides a place of welcome. It always has done. Its founder, Alban, first welcomed an itinerant Christian preacher way back in the third century (and finished by paying for that welcome with his life). And the Cathedral still plays host to the community at large – and not just those who visit it and are involved in its life for religious reasons. I’d like to think that – at Greenbelt – we’re committed to the same welcome and inclusion.

  • It aspires to be a place of learning. From its monastic roots, with a rich and radical tradition of educating anyone from the locality who wanted to learn, the Cathedral is still committed to development and exploration. Greenbelt, too, is a place of learning and transformation. We all hear and experience things through Greenbelt we would not otherwise encounter. Our lives are expanded, challenged, changed. Greenbelt is a learning community.

  • And finally, of course, St Alban’s Cathedral is a place of pilgrimage. The tomb of St Alban, this country’s first martyr, is visited by thousands each year. And has been for centuries. Although not quite as old yet, Greenbelt is for many a staging post. Many describe it as marking the end of their year. They measure where they’re at in their lives in terms of festivals. For many, Greenbelt represents a gathering of the clans – the place where friends meet up to catch up with each other on their different journeys.

  Greenbelt is many things to many different people. But I’d like us to aspire to sharing St Alban’s Cathedral values. To be, among many things, about hospitality, learning and pilgrimage.

  —-

  Join The Alban Pilgrimage on Saturday 23 June. Registration and more information here »

  
• April 26, 2012
• 12:30

  Further lineup announcements for Greenbelt 2012

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  In case you aren’t subscribed to our e-bulletin Dispatches, here’s a new batch of lineup for Greenbelt 2012 that we announced last Friday.

  Don’t forget that our April ticket deadline is approaching this Monday (30 April). Book your tickets before May to receive a saving of up to 20% off ticket prices onsite. Head to our Box Office now »

  New Music lineup includes Idlewild’s Roddy Woomble, Denison Witmer, Hope & Social, Jackie Oates, Chris T-T, Gavin Osborn, In Case Of Fire, Tom & Olly, Luke Sital-Singh, Tibi & Her Cello, and Martyn Joseph hosting his songwriters’ circle The Rising.

  Our second music stage emerges from underground and nestles beneath The Canopy – Guvna B, Yes Sir Boss, Tunde, The Austin Francis Connection, Lee Mitchell and Flight Brigade, plus the previously-announced Rams’ Pocket Radio, Jose Vanders and Luke Leighfield.

  The Talks lineup gets stronger and stronger, with new additions John Polkinghorne, Michael Battle, Emma Major, Jane Mason, John Dear, Margaret Hebblethwaite, Mary Jackson, Rotimi Akinsete, Sara Batts, Veronica Zundel, Hazel Rolston and Jo Swinney, plus more… And our What Happens When You Pray? panel, in association with Cheltenham Science Festival, brings together Professor Christopher French, Mark Vernon and Rev Richard Coles.

  Performing Arts features hard-hitting drama from Clean Break in their play Dream Pill; the new play from the writer of BBC1’s Miranda, James Cary’s The God Particle; and a welcome return for “performance activist” Peterson Toscano.

  And we’ve got more for Children and Families too – with No Nonsense Theatre Company’s puppet production of The Emperor’s New Clothes, Paul Cookson hosting The Family Twist, Simon Mayo introducing his new book Itch, Edible Poetry with Talia Randall, and crafts with Sew Far Sew Good, BEES and Jon McKay. Plus our new venue The Village Hall hosts Zumba, circus skills, storytelling, drumming and much more besides.

  
• April 23, 2012
• 16:30

  The Bible, Zionism and Palestine conference in Sheffield

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  A range of speakers familiar to Greenbelters, as well as a host of other thinkers from a range of perspectives, are coming together in Sheffield on 24-26 May to take part in The Bible, Zionism and Palestine conference at the University of Sheffield’s Department of Biblical Studies.

  The conference looks at the Biblical roots of many of the conflicts in the region, asking not only whether the Bible should be used as an authoritative text to legitimise either side’s actions, but also whether the Bible is “an ancient and deeply ethnocentric text, [… and] ultimately not sympathetic with humanist values such as human rights and equality”.

  The conference features Rev Dr Naim Ateek, Ilan Pappe, and Professor Mary Grey (who will be appearing at Greenbelt 2012), plus Rabbi Professor Dan Cohn-Sherbok and Professor Nur Masalha, among many others...

  Tickets for the three-day conference (including lunches) is £70 for non-students, £30 for students. There is also a basic student rate (without refreshments), which is £15.

  For more details and to register for the conference, head to the conference website »

  
• April 20, 2012
• 17:30

  The Children's Society: Fair And Square

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Here’s Sophie Brightwell from Greenbelt associates The Children’s Society on their new campaign for free school meals for all children in poverty…

  Communion at Greenbelt always makes me think of Jesus sharing loaves and fishes with the assembled crowds. The traditional image is of a benign saviour performing a slightly improbable miracle, feeding 5000 appreciative people sitting in neat circles on red-checked picnic cloths. It’s easy to imagine them all, gathering as we do on the Sunday morning, chatting and dishing out bread from the on-site camp shop.

  And yet it would seem that the context of the feeding miracle was something very different. The crowd were hounding Jesus, following and jostling to keep up with him because they had seen what he was doing. They needed him, and they needed him because they were poor.

  John’s gospel tells us that the sharing of the loaves and the fishes so that all are fed is also a sign, something pointing beyond itself. And the sign – pointing to the kingdom of God – is nothing about religious rituals. It’s about feeding people, and meeting their immediate needs.

  It’s easy to sanitise the gospels, and it’s easy to sanitise our own context. It’s easy to see poverty as a problem somewhere else. And yet there are 2.2 million school children living in poverty in England. 1.2 million of these do not get a free school meal.

  Of these 1.2 million children, 700,000 are not even entitled to a free school meal at all – the majority simply because their parents work. A further 500,000 are not taking up the meals, often because of the quality of meals and issues of teasing and bullying.

  As Christians we believe in the coming of the kingdom of God. In this miracle, Jesus gives us a sign as to how this might look. All the crowd ate, we are told, and all had enough.

  That’s why The Children’s Society is campaigning for all children living in poverty to get free school meals — often the only nutritious meal they receive all day. Please join us. Visit our website and sign the petition now, or come see us at Greenbelt to find out more and to help create a society where all children have enough to eat.

  
• 17:30

  The Children's Society: Fair And Square

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Here’s Sophie Brightwell from Greenbelt associates The Children’s Society on their new campaign for free school meals for all children in poverty…

  Communion at Greenbelt always makes me think of Jesus sharing loaves and fishes with the assembled crowds. The traditional image is of a benign saviour performing a slightly improbable miracle, feeding 5000 appreciative people sitting in neat circles on red-checked picnic cloths. It’s easy to imagine them all, gathering as we do on the Sunday morning, chatting and dishing out bread from the on-site camp shop.

  And yet it would seem that the context of the feeding miracle was something very different. The crowd were hounding Jesus, following and jostling to keep up with him because they had seen what he was doing. They needed him, and they needed him because they were poor.

  John’s gospel tells us that the sharing of the loaves and the fishes so that all are fed is also a sign, something pointing beyond itself. And the sign – pointing to the kingdom of God – is nothing about religious rituals. It’s about feeding people, and meeting their immediate needs.

  It’s easy to sanitise the gospels, and it’s easy to sanitise our own context. It’s easy to see poverty as a problem somewhere else. And yet there are 2.2 million school children living in poverty in England. 1.2 million of these do not get a free school meal.

  Of these 1.2 million children, 700,000 are not even entitled to a free school meal at all – the majority simply because their parents work. A further 500,000 are not taking up the meals, often because of the quality of meals and issues of teasing and bullying.

  As Christians we believe in the coming of the kingdom of God. In this miracle, Jesus gives us a sign as to how this might look. All the crowd ate, we are told, and all had enough.

  That’s why The Children’s Society is campaigning for all children living in poverty to get free school meals — often the only nutritious meal they receive all day. Please join us. Visit our website and sign the petition now, or come see us at Greenbelt to find out more and to help create a society where all children have enough to eat.

  
• April 16, 2012
• 12:35

  Day 6: Time To Act

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  We’re posting blogposts from Greenbelt director Paul Northup about our recent trip to Israel and Palestine. Here’s his final post, about how best to respond to what those on the trip experienced…

  In this, my final blog off the back of our recent Greenbelt trip to Palestine and Israel, I want to highlight the two calls to action that stood out most clearly during our time there. They were to:

  1. Commit to and shout about Kairos Palestine
  2. Steel and consider deepening our commitment to BDS

  I’d like to quickly outline what these two things are about and what they might mean for Greenbelt and Greenbelters.

  Kairos Palestine

  In the communion service at Greenbelt last year we used some words from the Kairos Palestine document. But they might have passed you by. Kairos Palestine (Kairos means ‘a moment of truth’) is a call to the global Christian community to stand with the Palestinian Christians in calling for peace and justice in the land called Holy. It echoes the Kairos call which hastened the end of the Apartheid Regime in South Africa. (You can read Desmond Tutu’s support for Kairos Palestine here »)

  We had the privilege of meeting those who coordinated the document and its call when we were in Bethlehem this March. Please urge your churches and denominations to get behind the Kairos call. You can see a list of the organisations that are standing with Kairos here and you can add your name to the supporters list. We’ll make sure that Greenbelt shows its support by signing up to the document.

  Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions

  And then, while we were in Ramallah, we had the privilege of meeting Omar Barghouti, a founding committee member of the Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel and the leading voice in the BDS movement today. As a Palestinian living in Israel, he stands to lose everything under the latest Israel anti-boycott laws because of his work and writing. I am not sure if I have ever met someone so clear in their thinking, so committed to their cause, so compassionate in their manner. Omar is a deeply impressive person.

  He reminded me of our Greenbelt Settlement Boycott statement, made last autumn in which we stood with our partners at Christian Aid and The Methodist Church in urging Greenbelters to consider this particular campaigning course of action.

  But, to be honest, on a personal level – and I know there will be many other Greenbelters out there affected in a similar way – he steeled me to be bolder in my approach to BDS. I’ll leave that to you decide. In the meantime, we’ll work with our partners to see if we can move towards a united wider call for BDS – in time.

  In Conclusion

  And just a note in conclusion to my blogs from our trip. Greenbelt is an arts, faith and justice festival founded in response to a belief in a God of Justice, compassion and hope and as such we believe that a just peace for Palestine provides the best hope for Israelis to enjoy peace and security.

  For more on all this…

  [www.justpeaceforpalestine.org]
  [www.amostrust.org]

  
• April 13, 2012
• 15:00

  Solas Festival eBay Auction

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Our friends at Solas Festival are holding an eBay auction of a prime selection of items, including holidays, concert tickets, and one day in a recording studio…

  100% of the proceeds from the auction go to support Solas Festival – an annual gathering of faith, arts and justice in Scotland, which is supported by Greenbelt.

  Take a browse through the items on offer here »

  Solas Festival 2012 takes place from 22 to 24 June at Wiston Lodge, near Biggar. For more information, and to book tickets, head here »

  
• April 11, 2012
• 11:00

  Lyrical - evening of spoken word and acoustic music

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Iain Archer, Anthony Wilson, Karen Grace and Martin Wroe are coming together for Lyrical, an evening of music and spoken word to raise funds for two organisations – Women At The Well, a safe house for sex-workers in Kings Cross; and St Luke’s Church, the venue for Lyrical.

  The event takes place on Friday 20 April from 7.30pm at St Luke’s Church, London N7 – entrance is £8, including a first drink.

  Read more about Women at the Well’s work here »

  
• April 10, 2012
• 16:00

  Simon Morden wins the Philip K Dick Award

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  The Philip K Dick Award, named after the legendary American science-fiction writer, is given to the “most distinguished science fiction” novel published that year. We’re delighted that this year’s winner is Greenbelt regular Simon Morden for the books that form “The Samuil Petrovitch Trilogy” – known in the UK as the Metrozone series.

  The novels take place in a dystopian Britain of the future:

  Samuil Petrovitch is a survivor. He survived the nuclear fallout in St. Petersburg and hid in the London Metrozone – the last city in England. He’s lived this long because he’s a man of rules and logic. For example: GETTING INVOLVED = A BAD IDEA.

  But when he stumbles into a kidnapping in progress, he acts without even thinking. Before he can stop himself, he’s saved the daughter of the most dangerous man in London. And clearly: SAVING THE GIRL = GETTING INVOLVED.

  The books are available from Simon’s contributor page, or from his website. There are also free e-books available on his site, as well as sample chapters of the Metrozone novels.

  Simon will be returning to Greenbelt this summer, with his thoughts on the future of publishing. Notes from his previous talks and workshops at the festival are presented on his website in the Essays section »

  
• 12:30

  Day 5: The Freedom Theatre

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  We’re posting blogposts from Greenbelt director Paul Northup about our recent trip to Israel and Palestine. This trip, for the first time, took in a visit to The Freedom Theatre in Jenin…

  There is a theatre space, waiting to host all manner of creative expression. Its empty, banked rows of bench seating gaze down onto the stage set in expectation. A few old props from past productions add to the landscape of intrigue. Here there is magic to be made.

  But this is a theatre space with a difference. It has been hard-won. It is located smack-bang in the middle of a refugee camp in Jenin in the West Bank. A year ago its creative director and inspirational founder, Juliano Mer Khamis, was murdered not far from the space itself. Speculation still surrounds who it was that killed him. And, as we were shown around the premises during our Greenbelt trip to Palestine at the end of March 2012, his presence was still palpable.

  Yet, as the saying goes in theatre: “the show must go on.” The determination to create and carry on that we encountered at The Freedom Theatre in Jenin was incredibly moving. The workshops and acting schools still flourish. Work is underway in preparation for its next big show. Our guide tells us that Juliano was gearing them up for them a time when he would one day leave them. It seems like he did a pretty good job.

  It is always exciting being in a theatre space when there’s no set and no rehearsals going on. It is as if the voices and scenery from all its past productions are speaking to you, flooding your imagination with the truths and insights only theatre can conjure. In a week full of inspirational encounters, the short time we spent inside the Freedom Theatre in Jenin was one of the most hopeful. Perhaps it was because here the arts were at work, creating space and hope, opening windows where everywhere else there are walls.

  Read more about The Freedom Theatre in this Guardian article, or on The Freedom Theatre website.

  Find out more about Palestine by coming along to a free event in London on 23 April with Jeff Halper of ICAHD. Click here »

  
• 10:30

  Defiance - work by five artists from Gaza

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Defiance is an art exhibition at The Stone Space in Leytonstone, London, which brings together five Palestinian artists from Gaza.

  The work, by artists Majed Shala, Shareef Sarhan, Nidal Abu Oun, Raed Issa and Mohamed Abusal, is intended to illustrate “the determination of five artists to overcome the environment in which they work while simultaneously being inspired and challenged by it”.

  Each artist tells their own story: the conscious choice to use vivid colours, the hopeful form of a pregnant woman or the playful and detailed depiction of symbols such as the cactus – symbolic of endurance – or using the shapes identified with traditional calligraphy but which are never resolved into meaningful text.

  The exhibition is hosted in conjunction with Arts Canteen, and runs from 19 April to 6 May 2012.

  Find more information here »

  
• April 09, 2012
• 11:00

  Saving Paradise: A response

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Here’s a lovely poetic response to our theme for 2012, Saving Paradise, from our Literature Producer Katherine Venn…

  Consider the amaryllis, how it grows:

  how it begins, a heavy roundness in your palm
  waiting to be screwed into the earth’s dark socket;
  takes a day or two to steady itself with roots, then calmly

  gets to work. Consider its speed: that though you watch it
  closely, this upstart stem, it only seems to grow
  just when your back is turned, and never lets you catch it

  in the act of reaching, all stretched out on tiptoe,
  for the one thing that it wants – the winter light
  that softly burnishes the streaked glass of the window.

  Consider now the bud: the way it stirs (though it, too, never quite
  when you are looking), preparing for that evening when at last
  you walk into the room to see it’s taken flight,

  has shaken out its skirts. Consider the brazen trumpet-blast
  of bloom, four-fold; the way it holds itself, the way
  it seems to hint this whole endeavour happened much too fast

  for you to see it – one long blurred movement over twenty days
  and nights. And consider what, if for one brief
  moment you bent your head to listen, you might hear the amaryllis say:

  one simple thought, perfectly expressed in flower, and stem, and leaf.

  
• April 05, 2012
• 15:00

  The Stations of the King's Cross

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Here’s a beautiful project which uses paper-cut imagery to guide prayerful people around the Circle Line of the London Underground – starting at Westminster or St James’s Park, depending on whether you’re travelling clockwise or anti-clockwise, and ending at King’s Cross.

  The Stations of the King’s Cross can be experienced either online or by a free book (donations welcomed!). It was put together by an unnamed artist as “just an idea I thought some other tube-travellers might appreciate”.

  For more information on this great project, perfect for a contemplative Easter weekend, click here »

  
• 10:00

  Day 4: The Bookseller of Jerusalem

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  We’re posting blogposts from the Greenbelt trip to Israel and Palestine last week. Today, here’s a podcast about Munther Fahmi, the owner of the Bookshop at the American Colony Hotel in North Jerusalem.

  Listen

  Read more about Munther »

  Podcast recorded and produced by George Luke.

  Find out more about Palestine by coming along to a free event in London on 23 April with Jeff Halper of ICAHD. Click here »

  
• April 04, 2012
• 11:00

  Day 3: Keep right

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  We’re posting blogs written by Greenbelt director Paul Northup during the Greenbelt trip to Israel and Palestine last week. Today, finding warm welcomes in a divided Hebron…

  In the old town of Hebron there is a road that evokes an unsavoury resonance in the onlooker. Perhaps especially a European one. It’s a road that is divided by a weighty concrete barrier. On the right-hand side, the Palestinian residents of the old town can walk until the checkpoint crossing point, before making their way off into their neighbourhood to the left. The rest, and widest part, of the road is for the Jewish settlers to drive to and from their illegal settlements – right in the heart of the city, built literally on top of the Palestinian old city and soukh.

  It is difficult to explain how sick to the stomach it made me feel to see this apartheid at work and to wander through these deserted streets, with their shopfronts welded shut by the Israeli Defence Force (the IDF). This once vibrant market town in the southern West Bank is being choked to death, constricted on every side, from within and without, by fanatical idealogical ‘settlers’.

  And yet, on this very road, right opposite the IDF checkpoint at the foot of the hill coming down from the Tomb of the Patriarchs and across from an Israeli cafe, quite deliberately blasting out klezmer music, we sat and drank tea and coffee with a Palestinian family who refuse to give up their shop there. Even though they cannot walk out freely onto the road in front of their shop, they continue to appeal to tourists coming to visit Hebron to browse and chat. Their welcome was warm. Their shop was packed with good things to buy: quality local craft at great prices. Their smiles were infectious.

  Theirs is an act of non-violent resistance. In a city where the incoming Jews have a strategy of making life so intolerable that the resident Hebronites begin to leave, here is a family that, despite all the odds, is remaining, strong and dignified.

  All over the West Bank we encountered such bravery and beauty in the face of ugliness and injustice. And although made to ‘keep right’ on the road, it is the Palestinians who are keeping right in terms of their struggle and resistance against occupation.

  Find out more about Palestine by coming along to a free event in London on 23 April with Jeff Halper of ICAHD. Click here »

  
• April 03, 2012
• 11:00

  Day 2: For the beauty of the earth

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  We’re posting blogs written by Greenbelt director Paul Northup during the Greenbelt trip to Israel and Palestine last week. Today – ancient olive trees, the land, and the beauty of the earth…

  Mark Thomas talked about the beauty of Palestine a lot in his Extreme Rambling show. I was unconvinced if I’m honest. Even though I had visited the region once before. Although the landscape was striking, distinctive and evocative, it didn’t really strike me as beautiful.

  Until today.

  Today, we clambered down centuries-old terraces through meadow-land laden with all kinds of herbs and flowers, with birds singing in trees that were coming into bud in the West Bank village of al-Walaja. Today, the smells and sights and sounds of the land made me remember the childhood Sunday School mantra about this place that I had long forgotten: that this is a land that is rich and fertile, a land of ‘milk and honey’. (We even passed ranks of hives on our way down.)

  Our destination was one of the oldest olive trees in Palestine. It was difficult to get an accurate assessment of its age. But it is very old. More to the point, it is very beautiful. Today, it stands only metres away from where the Israeli government is building a brand new settlement road, together with its associated walls and fences – cutting a swathe across some of the most beautiful land I have ever seen and walked in.

  As we gathered around the impossibly wide base of this ancient tree, we were joined by Salah Abu Ali, the Palestinian farmer on whose land it has grown all these years. He explained how he and all the village together with many others – peacemakers from Palestine, Israel and overseas – had campaigned and camped out by the tree in order to get the route of the road and wall changed so that it was not destroyed. They succeeded. The scar on the landscape is now relocated – albeit only 20 metres or so to the west. But he still comes to the enclosure each and every day to watch over the tree. To somehow protect it with his presence. There was something deeply holy about his quiet and determined ecological rootedness.

  But this is just one tree. Hundreds of others on his land have been taken by the illegal development. And, as CAT and Volvo bulldozers and diggers dragged and stabbed at the rock behind us, sending clouds of dust drifting over us all, I was struck by just what violence and desecration this was. And the contrast between the beauty we stood in and the scar opening up before us only heightened this experience.

  The little girl from the village who had followed us down to the tree seemed so happy to be with us. So trusting, as we lifted her down from terrace to terrace. I will not forget her smile and her beauty, mirroring the landscape in which she lived. And the voice of our guide made complete, utter and compelling sense: “The land is my ‘red line’. It is my blood. It is my owner. My keeper.”

  There’s a video about the tree on the Guardian website here

  Find out more about Palestine by coming along to a free event in London on 23 April with Jeff Halper of ICAHD. Click here »

  
• April 02, 2012
• 11:00

  Day 1: Building bridges when others build walls

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  This week, we’ll be posting blogs written by Greenbelt director Paul Northup from the Greenbelt trip to Israel and Palestine last week, as the party found out more about the situation on the ground in the land called Holy…

  Today we met with three members of the grassroots, non-violent resistance movement Combatants for Peace. Our time with them came at the end of our first long, surprisingly hot day here, taking in some of the complex history, politics, geography and religion of Jerusalem and its surroundings. As we sat with them in an upper room on the outskirts of Beit Jala, near Bethlehem, their stories of transformation and resistance struck us very powerfully.

  But what difference, we asked them, do the creative, non-violent actions they are involved in – at checkpoints, roadblocks and in theatres up and down the West Bank – really make. At a political level? It was clear that as individuals and in their community settings here were three people – one Israeli woman and two Palestinian men – who had learned to live beyond fear and hate and to trust one another. But who was noticing their stories of transformation, we wondered?

  The young Israeli woman answered, softly but with great conviction: “At some stage, somehow peace will come. And we need to be ready to live in it when it does.” And as she spoke, the penny dropped for many of us. This was really hopeful. Rather than worry about the seemingly intractable political situation (we were at the end of a day which had made us wonder if there would ever be a solution, a just and peaceful resolution in the region), here were three people committed to preparing the ground, making it ready for the day when peace will come.

  As the younger Palestinian man quipped in conclusion, his infectious and cheeky grin heightening the profundity somehow: “They build the walls. We build the bridges.”

  We left our new friends in Beit Jala convinced again that hope, peace and justice will prevail. One day. Because of people like these. Because of organisations like Combatants for Peace.

  Find out more about Palestine by coming along to a free event in London on 23 April with Jeff Halper of ICAHD. Click here »

  
• March 30, 2012
• 12:30

  The Children's Society: Responding to the riots

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Here’s a blog from Jim Davis, the Good Childhood Advisor at our associates The Children’s Society on their response to the 2011 riots across the UK…

  At Greenbelt last year The Children’s Society gave young people a chance to reflect and comment on the summer riots. Young people were keen to contribute to a debate about the causes of the riots and what compelled some young people to get involved in such destructive action.

  Surprisingly, when we tried to get adults at the festival to make their views known and to join the debate most were reluctant to do so and many avoided our invitation to take part in the conversation.

  Young people wanted to get involved because it was their generation on trial, they felt implicated and judged simply by being young. Adults seemed to hope that the whole messy business would go away and that they could focus on better things, like the Tiny Tea Tent.

  But now we have another opportunity to debate and discuss. The Independent report from the Riots, Communities and Victims panel have given us something else to consider.

  After the riots we were told that it was criminal gangs that were responsible, then perhaps criminal young people, those without morals or just plain greedy. Now the report suggests that poverty is partly to blame, that excessive materialism contributes, that poor parenting and failing families caused the problem, that poor education doesn’t help and unemployment and having no prospects makes things worse.

  So, there we have it. The responsibility for the riots and the fear it caused rests with the criminals, the gangs, materialistic adults, the poor, the poor parents, the failing schools, the forgotten families, the hopeless, the unemployed and unemployable.

  Phew, it doesn’t rest with me then.

  Time for a cup of tea.

  Read more about the Children’s Society’s response to the riots here »

  Image credit: Aby Rose © The Children’s Society

  
• March 29, 2012
• 12:00

  Spread the word

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Over the coming month we’ll be gathering a whole host of resources that will help our supporters spread the word about the festival. Posters, leaflets, slideshows, things to put on your website, and – to get us started – our Greenbelt 2012 promo video which should nicely whet the appetite.

  You can watch the video in our media section, but we’d also encourage you to download the MP4 version and show it to your friends or at your local church. (To view the file on a PC you’ll need to download QuickTime.)

  If you’re planning to bring along some young people, we’ve got a video for them too.

  The video was produced by our friends at CaptiveNorth.

  
• March 28, 2012
• 16:00

  Phill Hopkins: Endgediarts Easter Story Exhibition

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Phill Hopkins, a regular Greenbelt visual artist, will be featured in an exhibition in Colwyn Bay which opens this Friday.

  Engediarts Easter Story Exhibition at the former Imperial Hotel, Colwyn Bay, Wales, and Phill will show ‘Occupy in the Garden Variations’ – a new series of eleven drawings based on Christ’s arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane.

  He writes:

  The ‘Occupy in the Garden Variations’ were made and completed in one day. I didn’t plan to make it in this way, it just happened. I used the King James Bible version (as it’s a lovely book with gold edged pages and it was in my studio) of the account of the arrest from John’s Gospel. In some of my work (the ‘Terror’ Variations) I have used Google Translate on my iPhone to translate English to Arabic. I did intent to use Arabic for this piece but soon changed to Hebrew, as it looked better. I took each verse of the text and made a drawing from it. It was soon very evident, as my hands were gradually getting more and more covered in the materials that I was using, that the drawing were also becoming dirtier as they progressed. I didn’t intend to use so much colour, that just happened too. During the making I was thinking about Schubert’s Winterreise; a piece about death in a landscape that becomes whiter as snow falls.

  The exhibition runs from 30 March to 6th April 2012.

  Visit the exhibition website – [www.engediarts.com]

  
• 11:05

  Saving Paradise: Explaining the theme

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  A short test. Without the use of new media or old friends, in what years did Greenbelt feature the following straplines?:

  • Wrestling With Angels
  • Rumours of Glory
  • Kiss of Life
  • Dreams of Home
  • Art and Soul

  (Turn your computer upside down to read the answers at the bottom of this article).

  Greenbelt’s 15th festival in 1988 was imaginatively billed ‘The Fifteen Year Special’ but the feeling emerged that this kind of approach could be improved upon. Since the sixteenth we’ve coined an allusive phrase to hang around the neck of each festival – a non-prescriptive line for creatives and participants to play with. This year, with Saving Paradise, it’s not just a snappy soundbite but the title of a book by two American theologians, Rita Nakashima Brock and Rebecca Parker.

  A few years ago Rita and Rebecca took their holidays in Europe, touring the Mediterranean world in search of the earliest Christian art. But as they wandered through ancient churches and catacombs, they discovered that it took Jesus Christ a thousand years to die.

  Or, to put it another way, in the first thousand years after he lived on earth, his followers filled their sanctuaries with images of Christ as a living being in a world blessed with the divine presence. Shepherd, teacher, healer, enthroned god. Infant, youth and bearded elder. ‘When Jesus appears with the cross he is in front of it, serene resurrected. The world around him ablaze with beauty.’

  In early Christian art they didn’t find Jesus’ dead body but his Risen body… and it was in this world not the next one.

  They found Paradise close to home – until Paradise was expelled. Slowly but surely as the millennium turned, argue the two authors, the imagery changed. Now the images of the resurrected Jesus were replaced by those of a crucified, tortured Jesus. The crucifix became the primary icon, wars were blessed as holy and crusaders were promised Paradise – after death.

  Rita Brock and Rebecca Parker, who join us at Greenbelt in August, argue that their findings in the art of Christian history help explain why the last millennium saw Christianity so often associated with violence and conflict, with torture and guilt. But the arrival of a new millennium is a moment to return to the way of peace, to friendship with the good earth and to a faith community which models paradise in this world. A time to save paradise.

  —-

  Answers: Wrestling With Angels (1991); Rumours of Glory (1990); Kiss of Life (2002); Dreams of Home (2011)); Art and Soul (1989)

  
• March 26, 2012
• 0:00

  Spoken word at Greenbelt 2012

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Today we’re pleased to announce that prolific campaigner Peter Tatchell, 38 Degrees director Hannah Lownsborough and sociologist and author Tony Campolo are the latest additions to this year’s Talks lineup.

  Having been described as a “modern-day prophet” by Bishop Richard Holloway and recently celebrates 45 years campaigning (as well as his 60th birthday!), Peter Tatchell returns to the festival.

  He will be joined by campaigns director at online campaign community 38 Degrees, Hannah Lownsbrough and professor, author and Greenbelt veteran, Tony Campolo.

  Elsewhere in the programme, we can announce that BBC Radio 4’s hit show Any Questions will be broadcast live from the festival and following their incredible reception at Greenbelt 2011, the Rend Collective return.

  Tickets for this year’s festival are available at early-bird rates until the end of April.

  (Tony Campolo last spoke at Greenbelt in 2001, his talks What can we do about homophobia? and What can we do about poverty? are available to download free of charge as part of our media archive.)

  
• March 16, 2012
• 15:00

  More lineup for 2012: Nitin Sawhney, The Leisure Society, The Proclaimers

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  We have further announcements of lineup for Greenbelt 2012: Saving Paradise, including the inimitable Nitin Sawhney, highly acclaimed folk-pop from The Leisure Society, and festival favourites The Proclaimers.

  It’s all taking place 24 – 27 August 2012 on Cheltenham Racecourse. Get your tickets now »

  See all the announced 2012 speakers and artists here »

  Music

  Nitin Sawhney makes his long-awaited Greenbelt debut as our Sunday night headliner. One of the most distinctive, versatile and important musical and cultural voices in the UK, this world-class producer, songwriter, DJ, multi-instrumentalist, orchestral composer and cultural pioneer will transport us to a global plane.

  We’ll also have some critically-lauded indie folk from radio favourites The Leisure Society, built around the songwriting of Nick Hemming. The band were Ivor Novello-nominated for songs from their first two albums, gathering high-profile fans including Brian Eno, Guy Garvey and Mark Radcliffe…

  Plus, making an always-welcome return visit, we’ll have a raucous singalong with David Tennant’s favourite band The Proclaimers, bringing a little Leith sunshine to the Racecourse.

  Talks

  Radio 4 Thought for the Day regular and friend of Greenbelt Lucy Winkett returns, and we also welcome the former Bishop of Durham, writer and Biblical scholar Tom Wright.

  The indefatigable Israeli journalist Gideon Levy writes a regular column in the newspaper Haaretz, and has a unique and controversial viewpoint on ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

  And as the festival focuses on issues of criminal justice, we’re excited to welcome Erwin James, writer, journalist and public speaker on the subject of the effectiveness of prison, and how to break the cycle of reoffending.

  Comedy

  We’re very pleased to welcome back Robin Ince, co-presenter of the Radio 4 science show The Infinite Monkey Cage, and ringmaster of The Book Club, Nine Lessons & Carols for Godless People, and Radio 4 Extra’s Serious About Comedy.

  Plus the extremely talented standup James Acaster returns to Greenbelt, having supported Milton Jones and Josie Long on tour, and been featured on Russell Howard’s Good News (BBC3).

  Literature

  We’re thrilled to welcome writer Jenn Ashworth, one of BBC Culture Show’s 12 Best New Novelists. Jenn is a creative writing teacher, and has published two novels – A Kind of Intimacy and Cold Light.

  Plus original performance poetry from Brixton’s own Sh’maya, a poet writing about “God, people, the city, Jazz, the buzz buzz buzz of living and all the beauty in-between”.

  We’ll have more to announce very soon. Keep watching this space.

  
• 0:00

  Archbishop Rowan Williams: moving on

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  So, today we learned of Archbishop Rowan Williams’ resignation. The news has prompted us to want to celebrate his friendship with Greenbelt over the years.

  Soon after beginning his term as Archbishop, Rowan welcomed us to his garden at Lambeth Palace for a special party to mark Greenbelt’s 30th birthday in the summer of 2003. He described Greenbelt as being part of his “mental furniture”. We appointed him our patron and he spoke at the festival a couple of times in the early noughties.

  It has been an interesting decade since then for both Rowan and Greenbelt. While we have re-established ourselves as a vibrant and healthy festival at our Cheltenham home, we have watched on as Rowan has done his gracious and level best to manage the impossible task of ‘holding together the Anglican communion’. (While, at the same time, attempting to lead the church in facing up to the issues of gay priests, women bishops and now gay marriage.)

  Personally speaking, during Rowan’s tenure as Archbishop, I have been saddened to all-but lose sight of that wonderful priestly poet and theologian who I was so excited to see first come into office, as he has struggled under the sheer weight of the institution that is the Church of England.

  As a post-grad theology student in the 90s, I remember Rowan, as Archbishop of Wales then, coming to a Theology Reading Group I was part of. There, he sat with just six of us around a table and genially answered our questions to him about his book On Christian Theology. He had time for us. I was then, and have been ever since, a fan of his theology, his poetry, his thoughtful integrity as a person – and, yes, his godliness.

  My hope for Rowan as he readies himself for the move to Cambridge at the end of the year, is that there he will find the space and time to recover his vocation as poet, priest and teacher. The Church still needs to hear his voice and pay attention to his witness. And, who knows, perhaps the playful and prophetic dimensions of his artistry might again regain their power at the margins. In other words, my hope is that this change in his role might, oddly, give Rowan more not less influence.

  Paul Northup, Greenbelt Director

  Recordings of Rowan’s talks at Greenbelt 2002 and 2004 are available to download free of charge in our media section.

  The image above was taken at Greenbelt 2002

  
• March 12, 2012
• 0:00

  Our new website

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Today we’re pleased to announce the launch of our new website. We hope it allows you to quickly and easily find out everything you need to know about this year’s festival.

  But Greenbelt is more than a one-off event, so our website is more than an information point. We know we’re never going to recreate the festival online, but we want to try at least. So our media section is home to thousands of talks, videos and photos from the past thirty-eight years. And besides the most recent talks, everything is available completely free of charge. Take a look, be inspired to make your corner of the earth a little brighter and then share the dream.

  
• February 23, 2012
• 10:25

  Speech Debelle, Bruce Cockburn, Bellowhead and OperaUpClose

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Greenbelt is delighted to be able to announce that Mercury Music Prize winner Speech Debelle; audience favourite Bruce Cockburn; live folk sensation Bellowhead and the fantastic, sell-out OperaUpClose are among the first clutch of acts to be confirmed for Greenbelt 2012: Saving Paradise, taking place from 24th-27th August at Cheltenham Racecourse. Get your tickets now »

  —

  MUSIC

  Critically acclaimed South London artist, Speech Debelle will bring her soulful and raw blend of poetic and powerful rhymes to the Greenbelt mainstage, combining tracks from her Mercury Music Prize-winning album with the recently released new album 'Freedom of Speech'. With her devotion to politics and social issues and musically inspired by the likes of Michael Jackson, Tracy Chapman and Meshell Ndegeocello, this South London wonder is the perfect act to join the Greenbelt party this summer.

  Canadian-born Bruce Cockburn brings his ever-evolving folk brilliance to Greenbelt’s Friday mainstage. Having been compared to the likes of Neil Young and Joni Mitchell, Cockburn is known for his virtuoso guitar playing and powerful political lyrics including hits “If I Had A Rocket Launcher” plus “Wondering Where The Lions Are”. Joining Cockburn, fellow folk sensation Seth Lakeman will bring his bow-shredding violin riffs and driving tenor guitar rhythms, creating a magical atmospheric vibe filled with charismatic and passionate energy. Bellowhead will perform for the first time at Greenbelt with their “full throttle…rare and exhilarating”(Q Magazine) live showcase, rousing crowds to their feet in what is set to be a sensational performance. Described by the Daily Mirror as “one of the country’s greatest live outfits”, the 11-piece collective are previous winners of the Best Live Performance award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and have recently returned from their sell-out UK tour. Audiences should prepare to dance like they’ve never danced before!

  Further additions to the line-up include BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards winners The Imagined Village plus “hot property” (The Guardian) folk revival band Megson with their infectious sounds and heavenly vocals, lush harmonies and driving rhythmic guitars. Thomas Truax will stun festival goers by using his bespoke inventions of strange self-made instruments in a surprising spectacle. Last but by no means least for the festivals music stage, Brooklyn-based, multi-instrumentalist and former member of American indie rock band The Hold Steady, Franz Nicolay, who is famed for combining the accordion and piano in unique way, will be making his debut at Greenbelt in 2012.

  SPEAKERS

  Greenbelt cements its firm reputation as offering much more than any other festival experience in the UK by today announcing the first of its speaker programme. University lecturer Dr. Andrew Tate joins the festival to discuss his reflective interest in postmodern fiction, theory and spirituality, Professor Mary Grey will offer insight into her vast knowledge of Feminist Liberation Theology and Spiritualities, Editor of New Humanist and former music journalist Caspar Melville will also be part of the 2012 offering.

  Esteemed lecturer in philosophy and author of several books on the modern world, Giles Fraser will speak at Greenbelt and after his recent, highly publicised departure from St Paul’s in October 2011, Fraser is an exciting addition to the speaker programme. Nationally acclaimed magician and author Mark Townsend will be part of the 2012 bill using his magic and mind-reading to unlock people’s inner wonder. This astonishing, slightly unsettling but life-affirming act is not to be missed.

  The "articulate, charismatic…and sophisticated operator" (Daily Telgraph) that is Rose Hudson Wilkin, who is tipped as the leading contender to become Church of England's first female bishop joins Greenbelt's speaker programme. Having fought for equal rights throughout her life, Wilkin's talk will be both engaging and thoughtful revealing what it's really like to live a double life in a parish where gang members roam, contrasted with her time spent as Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons. Ruth Gledhill will also speak and as a prestigious and longstanding correspondent for The Times, her appearance at Greenbelt will be both informative and tantalising.

  Reverend Richard Coles, broadcaster, writer and priest, is best known for being one half of 1980s band The Communards who enjoyed three UK Top Ten hits including 'Don't Leave Me This Way' and 'Never Can Say Goodbye'. Coles’ multi-talented reputation meant he was an obvious addition to Greenbelt’s diverse offering. Radical co-founder of The Simple Way, Shane Claiborne will also engage audiences with his fascinating experiences ranging from spending ten weeks alongside Mother Theresa in Calcutta to his recent three weeks spent in Baghdad with the Iraq Peace Team. Plus BBC Radio 2 Presenter Simon Mayo will be speaking about his debut children's book Itch, a fantastic action-packed thriller. A sure hits with the kids at Greenbelt this year.

  THEATRE & COMEDY

  Greenbelt is excited to be welcoming OperaUpClose, the boutique opera company who will be bringing their experimental but hugely popular sell-out production of La Bohème to the festival. Having wowed audiences and reviewers alike and recently awarded the prestigious accolade of the 2011 Olivier Award for Best Opera Production, OperaUpClose unique approach to their discipline firmly embraces the thos of Greenbelt.

  Kevin Tomlinson’s Kepow Theatre returns to Greenbelt for a show-stopping performance of improvisation and comedic hilarity. Having received five star reviews at Edinburgh Festival this year followed by a sell out tour, this is one show not to be missed, while fellow award-winner Tayo Aluko will also perform in the play "Call Mr Robeson" accompanied by an orchestra propelling his unusual baritone voice across the fields.

  —

  We'll have more announcements for you in a few short weeks, plus the unveiling of a new website for Greenbelt – with a few new innovations and giveaways. Keep your eyes on our Twitter feed for more news…

  
• 10:25

  Speech Debelle, Bruce Cockburn, Bellowhead and OperaUpClose

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Greenbelt is delighted to be able to announce that Mercury Music Prize winner Speech Debelle; audience favourite Bruce Cockburn; live folk sensation Bellowhead and the fantastic, sell-out OperaUpClose are among the first clutch of acts to be confirmed for Greenbelt 2012: Saving Paradise, taking place from 24th-27th August at Cheltenham Racecourse. Get your tickets now »

  Music

  Critically acclaimed South London artist, Speech Debelle will bring her soulful and raw blend of poetic and powerful rhymes to the Greenbelt mainstage, combining tracks from her Mercury Music Prize-winning album with the recently released new album 'Freedom of Speech'. With her devotion to politics and social issues and musically inspired by the likes of Michael Jackson, Tracy Chapman and Meshell Ndegeocello, this South London wonder is the perfect act to join the Greenbelt party this summer.

  Canadian-born Bruce Cockburn brings his ever-evolving folk brilliance to Greenbelt’s Friday mainstage. Having been compared to the likes of Neil Young and Joni Mitchell, Cockburn is known for his virtuoso guitar playing and powerful political lyrics including hits “If I Had A Rocket Launcher” plus “Wondering Where The Lions Are”. Joining Cockburn, fellow folk sensation Seth Lakeman will bring his bow-shredding violin riffs and driving tenor guitar rhythms, creating a magical atmospheric vibe filled with charismatic and passionate energy. Bellowhead will perform for the first time at Greenbelt with their “full throttle…rare and exhilarating”(Q Magazine) live showcase, rousing crowds to their feet in what is set to be a sensational performance. Described by the Daily Mirror as “one of the country’s greatest live outfits”, the 11-piece collective are previous winners of the Best Live Performance award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and have recently returned from their sell-out UK tour. Audiences should prepare to dance like they’ve never danced before!

  Further additions to the line-up include BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards winners The Imagined Village plus “hot property” (The Guardian) folk revival band Megson with their infectious sounds and heavenly vocals, lush harmonies and driving rhythmic guitars. Thomas Truax will stun festival goers by using his bespoke inventions of strange self-made instruments in a surprising spectacle. Last but by no means least for the festivals music stage, Brooklyn-based, multi-instrumentalist and former member of American indie rock band The Hold Steady, Franz Nicolay, who is famed for combining the accordion and piano in unique way, will be making his debut at Greenbelt in 2012.

  Speakers

  Greenbelt cements its firm reputation as offering much more than any other festival experience in the UK by today announcing the first of its speaker programme. University lecturer Dr. Andrew Tate joins the festival to discuss his reflective interest in postmodern fiction, theory and spirituality, Professor Mary Grey will offer insight into her vast knowledge of Feminist Liberation Theology and Spiritualities, Editor of New Humanist and former music journalist Caspar Melville will also be part of the 2012 offering.

  Esteemed lecturer in philosophy and author of several books on the modern world, Giles Fraser will speak at Greenbelt and after his recent, highly publicised departure from St Paul’s in October 2011, Fraser is an exciting addition to the speaker programme. Nationally acclaimed magician and author Mark Townsend will be part of the 2012 bill using his magic and mind-reading to unlock people’s inner wonder. This astonishing, slightly unsettling but life-affirming act is not to be missed.

  The "articulate, charismatic...and sophisticated operator" (Daily Telgraph) that is Rose Hudson Wilkin, who is tipped as the leading contender to become Church of England's first female bishop joins Greenbelt's speaker programme. Having fought for equal rights throughout her life, Wilkin's talk will be both engaging and thoughtful revealing what it's really like to live a double life in a parish where gang members roam, contrasted with her time spent as Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons. Ruth Gledhill will also speak and as a prestigious and longstanding correspondent for The Times, her appearance at Greenbelt will be both informative and tantalising.

  Reverend Richard Coles, broadcaster, writer and priest, is best known for being one half of 1980s band The Communards who enjoyed three UK Top Ten hits including 'Don't Leave Me This Way' and 'Never Can Say Goodbye'. Coles’ multi-talented reputation meant he was an obvious addition to Greenbelt’s diverse offering. Radical co-founder of The Simple Way, Shane Claiborne will also engage audiences with his fascinating experiences ranging from spending ten weeks alongside Mother Theresa in Calcutta to his recent three weeks spent in Baghdad with the Iraq Peace Team. Plus BBC Radio 2 Presenter Simon Mayo will be speaking about his debut children's book Itch, a fantastic action-packed thriller. A sure hits with the kids at Greenbelt this year.

  Theatre & Comedy

  Greenbelt is excited to be welcoming OperaUpClose, the boutique opera company who will be bringing their experimental but hugely popular sell-out production of La Bohème to the festival. Having wowed audiences and reviewers alike and recently awarded the prestigious accolade of the 2011 Olivier Award for Best Opera Production, OperaUpClose unique approach to their discipline firmly embraces the thos of Greenbelt.

  Kevin Tomlinson’s Kepow Theatre returns to Greenbelt for a show-stopping performance of improvisation and comedic hilarity. Having received five star reviews at Edinburgh Festival this year followed by a sell out tour, this is one show not to be missed, while fellow award-winner Tayo Aluko will also perform in the play "Call Mr Robeson" accompanied by an orchestra propelling his unusual baritone voice across the fields.

  We'll have more announcements for you in a few short weeks, plus the unveiling of a new website for Greenbelt - with a few new innovations and giveaways. Keep your eyes on our Twitter feed for more news…

  
• February 20, 2012
• 12:19

  Accommodation 2012

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  As you'd expect, we're always looking for ways to make Greenbelt better for our festivalgoers, and we're in early discussions regarding accommodation options at this year's festival.

  We're looking to see if our festivalgoers would be interested in basic self-catering accommodation near the Racecourse for fixed stays of three to four nights over the festival weekend.

  The accommodation offered is standard single en-suite rooms. The rooms are not suitable for families, but could work well for individuals, groups and youth groups accompanied by adult supervisors. The accommodation features access to shared kitchens, and does not include catering.

  The rooms have limited bedding, so you'd have to bring your own sleeping bag, but they offer a safe, clean and dry space a short walk from the Racecourse.

  If you are interested, please fill out the online form below.

  We will let you know whether bookings are being taken within the next month.

  UPDATE: Thanks for your contributions. We'll let you know the outcome of our discussions soon.

  
• 12:19

  Accommodation 2012

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  As you'd expect, we're always looking for ways to make Greenbelt better for our festivalgoers, and we're in early discussions regarding accommodation options at this year's festival.

  We're looking to see if our festivalgoers would be interested in basic self-catering accommodation near the Racecourse for fixed stays of three to four nights over the festival weekend.

  The accommodation offered is standard single en-suite rooms. The rooms are not suitable for families, but could work well for individuals, groups and youth groups accompanied by adult supervisors. The accommodation features access to shared kitchens, and does not include catering.

  The rooms have limited bedding, so you'd have to bring your own sleeping bag, but they offer a safe, clean and dry space a short walk from the Racecourse.

  
• February 13, 2012
• 17:53

  Youth Consultation – Fill in our survey

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Following our consultation with young people just over a week ago, we're now looking to broaden feedback on Greenbelt's work for 11-18s, and give all young people the chance to let their voice be heard, by completing our online survey.

  Greenbelt is developing its work for, with and by young people. We want young people’s voices to be heard and for them to help shape the festival.

  The first steps were to recruit a Youth Participation Co-ordinator, and to launch a questionnaire at the festival asking for young people’s opinions.

  Next was a small-scale consultation, held in London on 4th February to ask more specific questions. We welcomed a small group of young people (below) from across England, aged 14-17, to the Greenbelt office. They were asked to tell us what their ideal day would look like, what it means to be a Greenbelt youth and what the youth venue should be used for. The motto of the day was "No idea is a silly idea". At the end of the day we went through the ideas with the group so they knew how easy or practical they would be to implement at Greenbelt 2012. Since the end of the session, conversations have continued in the Greenbelt office.

  This is where you come in… We are completing our preliminary consultation by asking any young person who was unable to attend on the 4th February to share their thoughts using our online survey.
  Please share this link: [https:]]

  Although we can’t put all ideas in practice, we want to hear any thoughts you might have. Make sure your idea is on the table for consideration. Results will be collated on March 2nd 2012.

  

  
• 17:53

  Youth Consultation - Fill in our survey

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Following our consultation with young people just over a week ago, we're now looking to broaden feedback on Greenbelt's work for 11-18s, and give all young people the chance to let their voice be heard, by completing our online survey.

  Greenbelt is developing its work for, with and by young people. We want young people’s voices to be heard and for them to help shape the festival.

  The first steps were to recruit a Youth Participation Co-ordinator, and to launch a questionnaire at the festival asking for young people’s opinions.

  Next was a small-scale consultation, held in London on 4th February to ask more specific questions. We welcomed a small group of young people (below) from across England, aged 14-17, to the Greenbelt office. They were asked to tell us what their ideal day would look like, what it means to be a Greenbelt youth and what the youth venue should be used for. The motto of the day was "No idea is a silly idea". At the end of the day we went through the ideas with the group so they knew how easy or practical they would be to implement at Greenbelt 2012. Since the end of the session, conversations have continued in the Greenbelt office.

  This is where you come in... We are completing our preliminary consultation by asking any young person who was unable to attend on the 4th February to share their thoughts using our online survey.
  Please share this link: [https:]]

  Although we can’t put all ideas in practice, we want to hear any thoughts you might have. Make sure your idea is on the table for consideration. Results will be collated on March 2nd 2012.

  

  
• January 31, 2012
• 16:07

  "Who Do You Say That I Am?" – sexuality and faith workshop

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Poet and speaker Pádraig Ó Tuama is leading a workshop for Leicester Cathedral in March entitled "Who Do You Say That I Am?: a queer conversation on identity and faith", which will explore the interface of sexuality and spirituality.

  Click here to download the workshop flyer

  Pádraig has worked in Belfast for the past eight years developing faith and peace resources for churches, retreats and teachers. His work mixes poetry, theology, reflection and stories, and this workshop is certain to be a fascinating and illuminating look at one of the biggest issues in the modern church.

  The workshop takes place on Saturday 10th March at St Martin's House, Leicester. If you'd like to attend, please contact Julia Unna at julia.unna@leccofe.org, or telephone 0116 261 5362.

  
• 16:07

  "Who Do You Say That I Am?" - sexuality and faith workshop

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Poet and speaker Pádraig Ó Tuama is leading a workshop for Leicester Cathedral in March entitled "Who Do You Say That I Am?: a queer conversation on identity and faith", which will explore the interface of sexuality and spirituality.

  Click here to download the workshop flyer

  Pádraig has worked in Belfast for the past eight years developing faith and peace resources for churches, retreats and teachers. His work mixes poetry, theology, reflection and stories, and this workshop is certain to be a fascinating and illuminating look at one of the biggest issues in the modern church.

  The workshop takes place on Saturday 10th March at St Martin's House, Leicester. If you'd like to attend, please contact Julia Unna at julia.unna@leccofe.org, or telephone 0116 261 5362.

  
• January 27, 2012
• 12:43

  Tales from the Aquarium

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Here's an interesting Greenbelt story… At Greenbelt 2011, we had an infestation of the crochet goldfish seen above. Though these little animals are quite harmless, they are an adventurous species, and went out from the festival into the wider world. Now, the Tales from the Aquarium blog is collecting stories of their journeys.

  With one fish becoming part of an artwork, and another being placed in a geocache in Bristol, they're certainly getting about. Read the blog for more fishy tales, and if you were one of the lucky ones who received a fish, do let the Tales from the Aquarium team know what they're up to…

  (Huge thanks to the fishes' extremely creative parents, That Roger and Sanctus1.)

  
• 12:43

  Tales from the Aquarium

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Here's an interesting Greenbelt story... At Greenbelt 2011, we had an infestation of the crochet goldfish seen above. Though these little animals are quite harmless, they are an adventurous species, and went out from the festival into the wider world. Now, the Tales from the Aquarium blog is collecting stories of their journeys.

  With one fish becoming part of an artwork, and another being placed in a geocache in Bristol, they're certainly getting about. Read the blog for more fishy tales, and if you were one of the lucky ones who received a fish, do let the Tales from the Aquarium team know what they're up to...

  (Huge thanks to the fishes' extremely creative parents, That Roger and Sanctus1.)

  
• January 24, 2012
• 10:01

  Beit Arabiya demolished

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  UPDATE: Greenbelt is one of a number of organisations who have signed a letter to the press condemning the demolition of Beit Arabiya. Click here to read more. 

  —

  In May last year a number of Greenbelters visited Beit Arabiya as part of an alternative pilgrimage to the Holy Land. The house has become a symbol of resistance against the occupation and more specifically against house demolition.

  At around 11pm last night, Beit Arabiya was demolished for the fifth time, along with other nearby residential and agricultural structures, displacing three families including that of Greenbelt speaker Salim Shawamreh.

  Salim and Arabiya, along with their family, neighbors and friends stood and watched as this tragedy unfold once again. Arabiya and Salim have dedicated their home as a center for peace in the memories of Rachel Corrie and Nuha Sweidan, two women (an American and a Palestinian) who died resisting home demolitions in Gaza.

  Our thoughts and prayers are with Salim, his family, and all those who suffer under Israeli Occupation.

  For more information visit the ICAHD website.

  
  The remains of Beit Arabiya

  
• 10:00

  Beit Arabiya demolished

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  UPDATE: Greenbelt is one of a number of organisations who have signed a letter to the press condemning the demolition of Beit Arabiya. Click here to read more. 

  In May last year a number of Greenbelters visited Beit Arabiya as part of an alternative pilgrimage to the Holy Land. The house has become a symbol of resistance against the occupation and more specifically against house demolition.

  At around 11pm last night, Beit Arabiya was demolished for the fifth time, along with other nearby residential and agricultural structures, displacing three families including that of Greenbelt speaker Salim Shawamreh.

  Salim and Arabiya, along with their family, neighbors and friends stood and watched as this tragedy unfold once again. Arabiya and Salim have dedicated their home as a center for peace in the memories of Rachel Corrie and Nuha Sweidan, two women (an American and a Palestinian) who died resisting home demolitions in Gaza.

  Our thoughts and prayers are with Salim, his family, and all those who suffer under Israeli Occupation.

  For more information visit the ICAHD website.

  
  The remains of Beit Arabiya

  
• January 23, 2012
• 10:50

  Upcoming gigs at All Hallows Leeds

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  The series of concerts at All Hallows Leeds reopens on Sunday 29 January with the alternative folk five-piece Hunting Bears, with support from Jasmine Kennedy.

  Hunting Bears are influenced by "Andrew Bird, Beirut, Bjork, Bon Iver, Dirty Projectors, Explosions in the Sky, Iron & Wine, Joanna Newsom, Joni Mitchell, Loudon Wainwright III, Portico Quartet, Tom Waits", and have a highly recommended live show. Batley singer-songwriter Jasmine Kennedy has "immense talent and an endearing charm".

  Tickets are £5 in advance or £6 on the door, see the All Hallows Gigs Facebook page for more information.

  Future gigs feature Greenbelt favourites Lobelia and Steve Lawson (26th February), O'Hooley & Tidow (25th March). Like the Facebook page to be kept up-to-date.
  

  

  
• 10:50

  Upcoming gigs at All Hallows Leeds

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  The series of concerts at All Hallows Leeds reopens on Sunday 29 January with the alternative folk five-piece Hunting Bears, with support from Jasmine Kennedy.

  Hunting Bears are influenced by "Andrew Bird, Beirut, Bjork, Bon Iver, Dirty Projectors, Explosions in the Sky, Iron & Wine, Joanna Newsom, Joni Mitchell, Loudon Wainwright III, Portico Quartet, Tom Waits", and have a highly recommended live show. Batley singer-songwriter Jasmine Kennedy has "immense talent and an endearing charm".

  Tickets are £5 in advance or £6 on the door, see the All Hallows Gigs Facebook page for more information.

  Future gigs feature Greenbelt favourites Lobelia and Steve Lawson (26th February), O'Hooley & Tidow (25th March). Like the Facebook page to be kept up-to-date.
  

  

  
• January 19, 2012
• 10:00

  Opportunity: International Reconciliation Internships, Coventry Cathedral

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Coventry Cathedral are advertising for one-year International Reconciliation interns, to start in August. See below for details, and information on applying…

  —

  Reconciliation internships at Coventry Cathedral are for those seeking to develop their understanding of reconciliation and peacebuilding as part of Christian mission. They offer the opportunity to:

  Gain experience in a working environment;
  Develop skills in project management, research and group facilitation.
  Learn and explore a range of issues in relation to the theology, practice and spirituality of reconciliation.

  All interns will contribute to the successful delivery and development of the Reconciliation Ministry at Coventry Cathedral. Each intern’s role will be focussed on a specific area of the team’s work, while also necessitating the flexibility to assist with and collaborate on other tasks as required. Interns will take part in a guiding reading programme as well as participating in the daily liturgical life of the Cathedral and attending Sunday worship.

  To be eligible for an internship, prospective interns should:
  1. Normally be over 21 years of age at the time the internship commences.
  2. Preferably be a graduate, with a degree in an appropriate discipline (e.g. International Relations, Politics, Public Policy, Peace Studies, Development Studies, Theology)
  3. Be a practicing Christian.

  Where English is not their first language, applicants for an internship will need to demonstrate sufficient proficiency in spoken and written English.

  Internships will commence in August 2012, and generally last for a period of twelve months. The Cathedral will provide free on site accommodation, a weekly allowance and expenses.

  For further information or to express your interest in a position, please email reconciliation@coventrycathedral.org.uk

  
• 10:00

  Opportunity: International Reconciliation Internships, Coventry Cathedral

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Coventry Cathedral are advertising for one-year International Reconciliation interns, to start in August. See below for details, and information on applying...

  Reconciliation internships at Coventry Cathedral are for those seeking to develop their understanding of reconciliation and peacebuilding as part of Christian mission. They offer the opportunity to:

  Gain experience in a working environment;
  Develop skills in project management, research and group facilitation.
  Learn and explore a range of issues in relation to the theology, practice and spirituality of reconciliation.

  All interns will contribute to the successful delivery and development of the Reconciliation Ministry at Coventry Cathedral. Each intern’s role will be focussed on a specific area of the team’s work, while also necessitating the flexibility to assist with and collaborate on other tasks as required. Interns will take part in a guiding reading programme as well as participating in the daily liturgical life of the Cathedral and attending Sunday worship.

  To be eligible for an internship, prospective interns should:
  1. Normally be over 21 years of age at the time the internship commences.
  2. Preferably be a graduate, with a degree in an appropriate discipline (e.g. International Relations, Politics, Public Policy, Peace Studies, Development Studies, Theology)
  3. Be a practicing Christian.

  Where English is not their first language, applicants for an internship will need to demonstrate sufficient proficiency in spoken and written English.

  Internships will commence in August 2012, and generally last for a period of twelve months. The Cathedral will provide free on site accommodation, a weekly allowance and expenses.

  For further information or to express your interest in a position, please email reconciliation@coventrycathedral.org.uk

  
• January 18, 2012
• 10:00

  Artist and Speaker Applications for Greenbelt 2012 open

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  UPDATE: The deadlines for all applications have now closed. Our producer team will be in touch with those who have applied by the end of April.

  As previously announced, we're opening artist and speaker applications for Greenbelt 2012: Saving Paradise today. Please use the forms below to pitch ideas to our Producer Team and Programming Staff. (We are not accepting applications to the Greenbelt office by post – this is to prevent waste and to minimise environmental impact.)

  TALKS
  We are accepting talks proposals and suggestions for speakers.
  Deadline is Wednesday 15th February 2012, 5pm.
  Please note you will need a link to a high-res photo of yourself for festival publicity.

  MUSIC
  We are accepting proposals for all music stages.
  Deadline is Wednesday 15th February 2012, 5pm.
  Please note you will need a link to a Soundcloud or Bandcamp page. Submissions via youtube and myspace will not be accepted.

  ALL OTHER PROGRAMME AREAS
  For all other programme areas, please fill in the form below and mark which programme areas you would like to be considered for.
  Deadline is Wednesday 15th February 2012, 5pm.

  Due to the expected volume of responses, and the need to consider each application carefully, we will get back to all applicants by 30th April.

  We look forward to reading your applications and putting together a brilliant programme for the August Bank Holiday weekend…

  
• 10:00

  Artist and Speaker Applications for Greenbelt 2012 open

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  UPDATE: The deadlines for all applications have now closed. Our producer team will be in touch with those who have applied by the end of April.

  As previously announced, we're opening artist and speaker applications for Greenbelt 2012: Saving Paradise today. Please use the forms below to pitch ideas to our Producer Team and Programming Staff. (We are not accepting applications to the Greenbelt office by post - this is to prevent waste and to minimise environmental impact.)

  TALKS
  We are accepting talks proposals and suggestions for speakers.
  Deadline is Wednesday 15th February 2012, 5pm.
  Please note you will need a link to a high-res photo of yourself for festival publicity.

  MUSIC
  We are accepting proposals for all music stages.
  Deadline is Wednesday 15th February 2012, 5pm.
  Please note you will need a link to a Soundcloud or Bandcamp page. Submissions via youtube and myspace will not be accepted.

  ALL OTHER PROGRAMME AREAS
  For all other programme areas, please fill in the form below and mark which programme areas you would like to be considered for.
  Deadline is Wednesday 15th February 2012, 5pm.

  Due to the expected volume of responses, and the need to consider each application carefully, we will get back to all applicants by 30th April.

  We look forward to reading your applications and putting together a brilliant programme for the August Bank Holiday weekend...

  
• January 13, 2012
• 16:18

  Artist & Speaker applications for Greenbelt 2012 open next Wednesday

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  It's January, so planning for Greenbelt 2012 is well underway, with first lineup announcements due in the next month. But before then, we're opening applications for Artists and Speakers for the Greenbelt 2012 programme – with our new Producer team eager to discover new insightful speakers, fresh and unmissable bands, plus all those brilliant innovations you'd love to bring to the programme…

  Greenbelt 2012's theme is Saving Paradise, so we're welcoming applications which might include ideas about the ecology, utopia and redemption, as well as any bright sparks to bring a little light and colour into every aspect of Greenbelt's rich and varied lineup. What have you always wanted to see on the programme, but couldn't find? What could you bring to the party?

  Applications open on Wednesday 18th January, so keep an eye on our Contact page and on the blog for more information about how to get involved…

  —

  BANDS/MUSICIANS: Please note we will need a link to a song of yours hosted on Bandcamp or Soundcloud. We do not accept CD submissions to the office for environmental reasons, and also to keep costs for bands to a minimum.

  SPEAKERS: Please note we will need a link to a high-resolution image of you hosted on Flickr or your own website.

  
• 16:18

  Artist & Speaker applications for Greenbelt 2012 open next Wednesday

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  It's January, so planning for Greenbelt 2012 is well underway, with first lineup announcements due in the next month. But before then, we're opening applications for Artists and Speakers for the Greenbelt 2012 programme - with our new Producer team eager to discover new insightful speakers, fresh and unmissable bands, plus all those brilliant innovations you'd love to bring to the programme...

  Greenbelt 2012's theme is Saving Paradise, so we're welcoming applications which might include ideas about the ecology, utopia and redemption, as well as any bright sparks to bring a little light and colour into every aspect of Greenbelt's rich and varied lineup. What have you always wanted to see on the programme, but couldn't find? What could you bring to the party?

  Applications open on Wednesday 18th January, so keep an eye on our Contact page and on the blog for more information about how to get involved...

  BANDS/MUSICIANS: Please note we will need a link to a song of yours hosted on Bandcamp or Soundcloud. We do not accept CD submissions to the office for environmental reasons, and also to keep costs for bands to a minimum.

  SPEAKERS: Please note we will need a link to a high-resolution image of you hosted on Flickr or your own website.

  
• January 09, 2012
• 12:12

  Greenbelt Youth: Voice your opinions

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  We're looking to make Greenbelt even better for young people, and so we're hosting a consultation event where festivalgoers can voice their opinions on the festival and its programme for younger Greenbelters.

  We're looking for 20 young festivalgoers, aged 13-18, to meet our Youth Participation Coordinator and other Greenbelt staff and volunteers, to give us their opinions on questions including:

  Who do you want to see at Greenbelt 2012?
  What workshops should be on offer?
  What was missing from Greenbelt 2011?

  The event is taking place in London on Saturday 4th February from 11am. Lunch will be provided and we can contribute to travel up to the cost of a London Travelcard.

  This is a real chance to shape the Greenbelt programme for younger people, and to have an impact on how Greenbelt Youth experience the festival.

  To register for the event, please head to youtellus.eventbrite.com »

  (Participants will be required to provide contact details from their parent/guardian on registering their interest. The event will be run and supervised by CRB checked members of Greenbelt staff.)

  —

  UPDATE: Non-Londoners will be able to contribute in an online questionnaire to be posted following the consultation.

  
• 12:12

  Greenbelt Youth: Voice your opinions

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  We're looking to make Greenbelt even better for young people, and so we're hosting a consultation event where festivalgoers can voice their opinions on the festival and its programme for younger Greenbelters.

  We're looking for 20 young festivalgoers, aged 13-18, to meet our Youth Participation Coordinator and other Greenbelt staff and volunteers, to give us their opinions on questions including:

  Who do you want to see at Greenbelt 2012?
  What workshops should be on offer?
  What was missing from Greenbelt 2011?

  The event is taking place in London on Saturday 4th February from 11am. Lunch will be provided and we can contribute to travel up to the cost of a London Travelcard.

  This is a real chance to shape the Greenbelt programme for younger people, and to have an impact on how Greenbelt Youth experience the festival.

  To register for the event, please head to youtellus.eventbrite.com »

  (Participants will be required to provide contact details from their parent/guardian on registering their interest. The event will be run and supervised by CRB checked members of Greenbelt staff.)

  UPDATE: Non-Londoners will be able to contribute in an online questionnaire to be posted following the consultation.

  
• January 04, 2012
• 14:52

  Documentary-making course with Franny Armstrong (Age Of Stupid)

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  If you're interested in making independent documentary films and want to learn from one of the most effective companies out there, Spanner Films (The Age Of Stupid, McLibel, Drowned Out) are running their SWOTS (Spanner's Weekend Of Techniques and Secrets) course over the weekend of 14th and 15th of January.

  Featuring input from filmmakers including Franny Armstrong – director of The Age Of Stupid and founder of the 10:10 campaign -plus producers, distributors and documentary festival organisers, the course includes…

  more than 1,000 tips and secrets from every stage of making documentaries – from idea to broadcast – from crowdfunding to Indie Screenings – from cameras to editing – from interviewing to subtitles – from journalist visas to jail detentions – from 20% VAT to 5.1 surround sound – from translators & animators to websites & DVDs – from lighting with no lights to fundraising from your kitchen – from satellite link-ups in the Himalayas to simultaneous screenings in 700 cinemas in 63 countries – from ambushing politicians to arguing on Newsnight – from recording orchestras to persuading Radiohead to play live – from screenings in tribal Indian villages with no electricity to international TV broadcast deals…

  For more information on how to be a part of the course, head to the Spanner website »

  
• 14:52

  Documentary-making course with Franny Armstrong (Age Of Stupid)

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  If you're interested in making independent documentary films and want to learn from one of the most effective companies out there, Spanner Films (The Age Of Stupid, McLibel, Drowned Out) are running their SWOTS (Spanner's Weekend Of Techniques and Secrets) course over the weekend of 14th and 15th of January.

  Featuring input from filmmakers including Franny Armstrong - director of The Age Of Stupid and founder of the 10:10 campaign -plus producers, distributors and documentary festival organisers, the course includes...

  more than 1,000 tips and secrets from every stage of making documentaries - from idea to broadcast - from crowdfunding to Indie Screenings - from cameras to editing - from interviewing to subtitles - from journalist visas to jail detentions - from 20% VAT to 5.1 surround sound - from translators & animators to websites & DVDs - from lighting with no lights to fundraising from your kitchen - from satellite link-ups in the Himalayas to simultaneous screenings in 700 cinemas in 63 countries - from ambushing politicians to arguing on Newsnight - from recording orchestras to persuading Radiohead to play live - from screenings in tribal Indian villages with no electricity to international TV broadcast deals...

  For more information on how to be a part of the course, head to the Spanner website »

  
• 13:34

  IQ2 Debate: The World Needs Religion Even If It Doesn't Need God

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  UPDATE: This debate is now sold out, but IQ2 will be live-streaming the debate for free on the night from this page on their website »

  —

  Intelligence Squared are hosting a number of live debates in 2012, and one particularly caught our eye… A debate on so-called "religion for atheists", a movement which suggests that atheists could still make use of "certain ideas and practices of religion that secular society has failed to engender – the promotion of morality and a spirit of community, for example, and the ability to cope with loss, failure and our own mortality".

  Speaking for the motion "The World Needs Religion Even If It Doesn't Need God" are writer and philosopher Alain de Botton and artist Grayson Perry, and speaking against it are novelist Anne Atkins and Benedictine monk Dom Antony Sutch.

  It's taking place at the Tabernacle in West London on Tuesday 24 January from 7pm.

  More details here »

  
• 13:34

  IQ2 Debate: The World Needs Religion Even If It Doesn't Need God

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  UPDATE: This debate is now sold out, but IQ2 will be live-streaming the debate for free on the night from this page on their website »

  Intelligence Squared are hosting a number of live debates in 2012, and one particularly caught our eye... A debate on so-called "religion for atheists", a movement which suggests that atheists could still make use of "certain ideas and practices of religion that secular society has failed to engender – the promotion of morality and a spirit of community, for example, and the ability to cope with loss, failure and our own mortality".

  Speaking for the motion "The World Needs Religion Even If It Doesn't Need God" are writer and philosopher Alain de Botton and artist Grayson Perry, and speaking against it are novelist Anne Atkins and Benedictine monk Dom Antony Sutch.

  It's taking place at the Tabernacle in West London on Tuesday 24 January from 7pm.

  More details here »

  
• December 19, 2011
• 12:12

  Archbishop Dr John Sentamu & Childrens Society in London

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Here are  Greenbelt associates The Childrens Society with news of an event they're hosting early in 2012, featuring a lecture and Q&A by Dr John Sentamu, Archbishop of York…

  —

  The Children’s Society invite you to join us and the Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, in a presentation of our groundbreaking Good Childhood Report 2012 on 12 January 2012 in Church House Westminster.

  The Good Childhood Report, based on the views of 25,000 children and young people, contains compelling evidence on the factors that affect the well-being of children.

  The evening will be an engaging exploration of the ingredients of a happy childhood, consisting of a presentation of the report followed by a lecture by the Archbishop of York, who has been an outspoken advocate for young people in the UK for many years.

  The writers of the report as well as the Archbishop will interact with the audience in a Q&A session following the lecture. Registration opens at 5.30 pm and all are invited to the post-lecture reception lasting until 8.30 pm.

  To attend, please email conferences@childrenssociety.org.uk or telephone The Children’s Society’s Supporter Care Team on 0300-303-7000.

  The event will take place at Church House, Dean’s Yard, Westminster, London, SW1P 3NZ. Nearest Tube stations are St James’s Park and Westminster.

  
• 12:12

  Archbishop Dr John Sentamu & Childrens Society in London

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Here are  Greenbelt associates The Childrens Society with news of an event they're hosting early in 2012, featuring a lecture and Q&A by Dr John Sentamu, Archbishop of York...

  The Children’s Society invite you to join us and the Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, in a presentation of our groundbreaking Good Childhood Report 2012 on 12 January 2012 in Church House Westminster.

  The Good Childhood Report, based on the views of 25,000 children and young people, contains compelling evidence on the factors that affect the well-being of children.

  The evening will be an engaging exploration of the ingredients of a happy childhood, consisting of a presentation of the report followed by a lecture by the Archbishop of York, who has been an outspoken advocate for young people in the UK for many years.

  The writers of the report as well as the Archbishop will interact with the audience in a Q&A session following the lecture. Registration opens at 5.30 pm and all are invited to the post-lecture reception lasting until 8.30 pm.

  To attend, please email conferences@childrenssociety.org.uk or telephone The Children’s Society’s Supporter Care Team on 0300-303-7000.

  The event will take place at Church House, Dean’s Yard, Westminster, London, SW1P 3NZ. Nearest Tube stations are St James’s Park and Westminster.

  
• December 16, 2011
• 16:00

  SPEAK Network: Soundcheck 2012

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Here's some information from the SPEAK Network - the organisation for young adults and students to campaign and pray about issues of global injustice - about their annual gathering, Soundcheck…

  —

  The SPEAK Network are holding their annual gathering, Soundcheck, from Friday 24th – Sunday 26th February 2012, in London. Come along for a great weekend of workshops and speakers. Be part of the Speak community for the weekend and go away with new friends, skills and dreams to change the world where you are!

  Hidden away in a creative venue in East London (The Rag Factory), you can choose from our diverse selection of workshops, listen to some inspiring talks, hear great live music, chill out in our café, and have a conversation about changing the world. Learn how to cook up some tasty vegetarian recipes, explore and discuss what the Christian faith has to do with justice, hear stories from activists all over the country and the wider world and share yours too!

  With guest speakers Rose Hudson-Wilkin, Parish Priest in Hackney and Chaplain to the House of Commons, we will also be hearing from Roger Chisnall, a social justice campaigner who has been involved with Christian Solidarity with Occupy London, and Casper Ter Kuile who set up the UK youth Climate Change Coalition. Soundcheck12 promises to be a challenging and inspiring weekend.

  Then join us for a Day of Action on Monday the 27th as we put into practice all that we've learnt. We’re going out to perform prophetic actions outside headquarters/stores of some companies who are acting carelessly and damaging people’s lives. We’re then going to hand in our Unfinished Business petition and go on to Parliament where we’ll lobby our MPs for corporate accountability.

  Tickets from only £45 including crashpad accommodation.

  Go to speak.org.uk/soundcheck12 for more information and to book tickets

  
• 16:00

  SPEAK Network: Soundcheck 2012

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Here's some information from the SPEAK Network - the organisation for young adults and students to campaign and pray about issues of global injustice - about their annual gathering, Soundcheck...

  The SPEAK Network are holding their annual gathering, Soundcheck, from Friday 24th – Sunday 26th February 2012, in London. Come along for a great weekend of workshops and speakers. Be part of the Speak community for the weekend and go away with new friends, skills and dreams to change the world where you are!

  Hidden away in a creative venue in East London (The Rag Factory), you can choose from our diverse selection of workshops, listen to some inspiring talks, hear great live music, chill out in our café, and have a conversation about changing the world. Learn how to cook up some tasty vegetarian recipes, explore and discuss what the Christian faith has to do with justice, hear stories from activists all over the country and the wider world and share yours too!

  With guest speakers Rose Hudson-Wilkin, Parish Priest in Hackney and Chaplain to the House of Commons, we will also be hearing from Roger Chisnall, a social justice campaigner who has been involved with Christian Solidarity with Occupy London, and Casper Ter Kuile who set up the UK youth Climate Change Coalition. Soundcheck12 promises to be a challenging and inspiring weekend.

  Then join us for a Day of Action on Monday the 27th as we put into practice all that we've learnt. We’re going out to perform prophetic actions outside headquarters/stores of some companies who are acting carelessly and damaging people’s lives. We’re then going to hand in our Unfinished Business petition and go on to Parliament where we’ll lobby our MPs for corporate accountability.

  Tickets from only £45 including crashpad accommodation.

  Go to speak.org.uk/soundcheck12 for more information and to book tickets

  UPDATE: The SPEAK website now includes a timetable, and full list of workshops. Click here »

  
• 10:52

  A statement on the boycott of produce from the Israeli Settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Greenbelt is calling on its supporters to make a stand by boycotting produce from the Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory. Our call comes at the culmination of our three-year ‘Just Peace’ campaign (through which we've highlighted the issues of injustice suffered by those living on the ground in Israel/Palestine, especially the Palestinians suffering under the Israeli occupation). It also comes after careful consideration and consultation with our festivalgoers, partners and, most importantly, those on the ground in the region – agencies working in Israel/Palestine and ordinary people living there.

  Greenbelt director, Paul Northup, says: “We call for a boycott of produce from the illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory. And, while our settlement boycott statement at this time marks the formal end of our three-year Just Peace campaign, we will continue in the struggle for a just peace in the region. We have been highlighting the circumstances confronting those living in occupied Palestine for decades now and we will continue to do so: bringing speakers from the region (Palestinian and Israeli, Jew, Christian and Muslim) to the festival; supporting all those on the ground in the region practising non-violent resistance and working for peace and reconciliation; and taking trips to the region with our friends Amos Trust.”

  Greenbelt's call for a boycott arises not only from concerns expressed by several of Greenbelt’s partners and many more human rights agencies and community leaders working in the region, but also from those within Greenbelt's own festival-going constituency who have become active campaigners for a just peace in the region.

  But we recognise that the situation on the ground in Israel/Palestine is complicated, and that there are many and varying views on how to respond to it.  So, for instance, one of our main partners, the Methodist Church, have already made a call for the boycott of settlement goods.  And another of our main partners, Christian Aid, while not calling for a boycott, are calling on the government to impose a UK ban on the import of settlement goods, due to the illegality of the Israeli settlements under international law. On the other hand, our associate partners, BibleLands, while passionately committed to a just peace in Israel/Palestine, are unable to make such a call, for the reasons outlined below.[1]

  But what all our partners and we at Greenbelt believe is that people should engage as much as they are able with the region, and we are convinced that this is best done by continuing to visit the land once called Holy.

  Paul concludes: “In the 1980s, Greenbelt joined people all over the world in championing the boycott of goods from South Africa as a form of protest against the unjust apartheid regime there. The truth and reconciliation that finally came to that country gives us hope now. Greenbelt is committed to standing with global civil society in joining with these new forms of boycott, in the hope that their combined actions may play a part in influencing the Israeli government and leading to a just settlement for all peoples in the region.”

  ———————————————————

  The case

  The UN, and most international governments, recognise that the Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territory is illegitimate under international law and that the Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory represent a particular challenge to a peaceful settlement in the region.

  But what to boycott?

  In December 2009, Defra (the UK Government Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) introduced new advice on labeling, recommending that packaging of products imported from the West Bank should distinguish between Palestinian areas and Israeli settlements. (See this Guardian article from that time.)

  For help with the sort of goods to watch out for, check out the Palestinian Solidarity Campaign website here (recognising the PSC is calling for full BDS).

  More recently, the Methodist Church and the Ecumenical Council for Corporate Responsibility (ECCR) have engaged with supermarket chains.  And, on the basis of this, they have drafted the following background advice on writing to supermarkets:

  • UK Supermarkets and ‘own-label’ goods from Israel and Palestine (The Methodist Church)
  • UK and Irish supermarkets’ policies and practices regarding the sourcing of goods produced in Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories

  ———————————————————

  [1] Our associate partners BibleLands encourage everyone to buy Palestinian goods wherever possible, but they are unable to support a Settlement Boycott for two reasons: (1) they own and run a special needs school in occupied East Jerusalem, the Helen Keller School, which serves Palestinian children with visual impairment. This school is partially funded by the Israeli Ministry of Education in accordance with the Israeli law on special needs education which prevails in East Jerusalem; (2) under a law passed by the Israeli Knesset in July, 2011, any organisation or individual in Israel found to have taken part in or supported any call to boycott Israeli goods (including settlement goods) can be sued under Israeli law for loss of revenue. With its own legally registered operations in occupied East Jerusalem, which puts it in a different position from the Methodist Church and Christian Aid, this is not a risk that BibleLands can afford to take.

  
• 10:52

  A statement on the boycott of produce from the Israeli Settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Greenbelt is calling on its supporters to make a stand by boycotting produce from the Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory. Our call comes at the culmination of our three-year ‘Just Peace’ campaign (through which we've highlighted the issues of injustice suffered by those living on the ground in Israel/Palestine, especially the Palestinians suffering under the Israeli occupation). It also comes after careful consideration and consultation with our festivalgoers, partners and, most importantly, those on the ground in the region – agencies working in Israel/Palestine and ordinary people living there.

  Greenbelt director, Paul Northup, says: “We call for a boycott of produce from the illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory. And, while our settlement boycott statement at this time marks the formal end of our three-year Just Peace campaign, we will continue in the struggle for a just peace in the region. We have been highlighting the circumstances confronting those living in occupied Palestine for decades now and we will continue to do so: bringing speakers from the region (Palestinian and Israeli, Jew, Christian and Muslim) to the festival; supporting all those on the ground in the region practising non-violent resistance and working for peace and reconciliation; and taking trips to the region with our friends Amos Trust.”

  Greenbelt's call for a boycott arises not only from concerns expressed by several of Greenbelt’s partners and many more human rights agencies and community leaders working in the region, but also from those within Greenbelt's own festival-going constituency who have become active campaigners for a just peace in the region.

  But we recognise that the situation on the ground in Israel/Palestine is complicated, and that there are many and varying views on how to respond to it.  So, for instance, one of our main partners, the Methodist Church, have already made a call for the boycott of settlement goods.  And another of our main partners, Christian Aid, while not calling for a boycott, are calling on the government to impose a UK ban on the import of settlement goods, due to the illegality of the Israeli settlements under international law. On the other hand, our associate partners, BibleLands, while passionately committed to a just peace in Israel/Palestine, are unable to make such a call, for the reasons outlined below.[1]

  But what all our partners and we at Greenbelt believe is that people should engage as much as they are able with the region, and we are convinced that this is best done by continuing to visit the land once called Holy.

  Paul concludes: “In the 1980s, Greenbelt joined people all over the world in championing the boycott of goods from South Africa as a form of protest against the unjust apartheid regime there. The truth and reconciliation that finally came to that country gives us hope now. Greenbelt is committed to standing with global civil society in joining with these new forms of boycott, in the hope that their combined actions may play a part in influencing the Israeli government and leading to a just settlement for all peoples in the region.”

  The case

  The UN, and most international governments, recognise that the Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territory is illegitimate under international law and that the Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory represent a particular challenge to a peaceful settlement in the region.

  But what to boycott?

  In December 2009, Defra (the UK Government Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) introduced new advice on labeling, recommending that packaging of products imported from the West Bank should distinguish between Palestinian areas and Israeli settlements. (See this Guardian article from that time.)

  For help with the sort of goods to watch out for, check out the Palestinian Solidarity Campaign website here (recognising the PSC is calling for full BDS).

  More recently, the Methodist Church and the Ecumenical Council for Corporate Responsibility (ECCR) have engaged with supermarket chains.  And, on the basis of this, they have drafted the following background advice on writing to supermarkets:

  • UK Supermarkets and ‘own-label’ goods from Israel and Palestine (The Methodist Church)
  • UK and Irish supermarkets’ policies and practices regarding the sourcing of goods produced in Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories

  [1] Our associate partners BibleLands encourage everyone to buy Palestinian goods wherever possible, but they are unable to support a Settlement Boycott for two reasons: (1) they own and run a special needs school in occupied East Jerusalem, the Helen Keller School, which serves Palestinian children with visual impairment. This school is partially funded by the Israeli Ministry of Education in accordance with the Israeli law on special needs education which prevails in East Jerusalem; (2) under a law passed by the Israeli Knesset in July, 2011, any organisation or individual in Israel found to have taken part in or supported any call to boycott Israeli goods (including settlement goods) can be sued under Israeli law for loss of revenue. With its own legally registered operations in occupied East Jerusalem, which puts it in a different position from the Methodist Church and Christian Aid, this is not a risk that BibleLands can afford to take.

  
• December 15, 2011
• 16:16

  Willie Williams: City Beacons

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  If you're around the City of London over the Christmas period – or paying a visit to Greenbelt HQ – you can see installations by Greenbelt 2011 Visual Arts contributor Willie Williams, with two London churches transformed into beacons of light.

  Willie is best known for his live show designs for U2, REM, Lady Gaga and David Bowie among others, but also works in more intimate environments, as seen in his Greenbelt show from earlier this year Lumia Domestica. Bridging those two aspects of his work, the City Beacons installations place giant mirror-balls within the bell-towers of ancient city churches, "creating a joyful culture clash to light up the Winter night".

  Here's more from Willie's website:

  Williams uses the transformational quality of light to create a visual counterpart to the traditional function of the church bell tower. For centuries, the sound of the bell has been used to signify time, to call people to worship, to announce celebration or calamity. Here, the silent, moving beams reach into the surrounding environment, touching the neighbouring buildings with enigmatic fragments of light, to surprise, perplex and raise the spirits of Christmas rush hour.

  This playful installation juxtaposes of the idea of Sacred Space with one of the defining symbols of trash culture – the disco mirror ball. This becomes a metaphor for the life of the City of London, where commerce, culture, history & trivia collide, but ultimately all must share the same space.

  The installations run until January 3rd at St Vedast-alias-Foster, and at Greenbelt HQ, aka All Hallows on the Wall.

  
• 16:16

  Willie Williams: City Beacons

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  If you're around the City of London over the Christmas period - or paying a visit to Greenbelt HQ - you can see installations by Greenbelt 2011 Visual Arts contributor Willie Williams, with two London churches transformed into beacons of light.

  Willie is best known for his live show designs for U2, REM, Lady Gaga and David Bowie among others, but also works in more intimate environments, as seen in his Greenbelt show from earlier this year Lumia Domestica. Bridging those two aspects of his work, the City Beacons installations place giant mirror-balls within the bell-towers of ancient city churches, "creating a joyful culture clash to light up the Winter night".

  Here's more from Willie's website:

  Williams uses the transformational quality of light to create a visual counterpart to the traditional function of the church bell tower. For centuries, the sound of the bell has been used to signify time, to call people to worship, to announce celebration or calamity. Here, the silent, moving beams reach into the surrounding environment, touching the neighbouring buildings with enigmatic fragments of light, to surprise, perplex and raise the spirits of Christmas rush hour.

  This playful installation juxtaposes of the idea of Sacred Space with one of the defining symbols of trash culture - the disco mirror ball. This becomes a metaphor for the life of the City of London, where commerce, culture, history & trivia collide, but ultimately all must share the same space.

  The installations run until January 3rd at St Vedast-alias-Foster, and at Greenbelt HQ, aka All Hallows on the Wall.

  
• December 12, 2011
• 17:00

  The Big City Sleep Challenge 2012

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Here are our friends from the Amos Trust with news of the Big City Sleep to raise money and awareness ahead of the next Street Child World Cup…

  —

  100 million children live on the streets. Can you handle one night?

  “I feel as though I can do anything now. I can even fly.”
  Victor, Nicaragua

  Street children like Victor are often ignored and forgotten. At the first Street Child World Cup in South Africa in 2010, they were given a platform to share their stories and demand their rights. Now, the Street Child World Cup is ensuring that their voices continue to be heard, supporting their campaigns and building momentum towards the tournament in Brazil in 2014.

  Millions of children sleep on the streets worldwide every night. We are asking you to take the Big City Sleep Challenge and spend just one night sleeping rough in Spitalfields Market to raise money for the Street Child World Cup (we ask that you commit to raising a minimum of £150).

  There will be live Brazilian entertainment, a meal voucher for all sleepers and a chance to find out more about the Street Child World Cup.

  The Big City Sleep will take place on March 23rd 2012 and we hope you and your friends will join us because no child should live on the streets.

  For more information or to register email: katie@streetchildworldcup.org
  streetchildworldcup.org

  

  
• 17:00

  The Big City Sleep Challenge 2012

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Here are our friends from the Amos Trust with news of the Big City Sleep to raise money and awareness ahead of the next Street Child World Cup...

  100 million children live on the streets. Can you handle one night?

  “I feel as though I can do anything now. I can even fly.”
  Victor, Nicaragua

  Street children like Victor are often ignored and forgotten. At the first Street Child World Cup in South Africa in 2010, they were given a platform to share their stories and demand their rights. Now, the Street Child World Cup is ensuring that their voices continue to be heard, supporting their campaigns and building momentum towards the tournament in Brazil in 2014.

  Millions of children sleep on the streets worldwide every night. We are asking you to take the Big City Sleep Challenge and spend just one night sleeping rough in Spitalfields Market to raise money for the Street Child World Cup (we ask that you commit to raising a minimum of £150).

  There will be live Brazilian entertainment, a meal voucher for all sleepers and a chance to find out more about the Street Child World Cup.

  The Big City Sleep will take place on March 23rd 2012 and we hope you and your friends will join us because no child should live on the streets.

  For more information or to register email: katie@streetchildworldcup.org
  streetchildworldcup.org

  

  
• 12:27

  Last day to buy Comedy Gig tickets online

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  As previously announced on the blog, we're hosting a one-off Christmas Comedy Night in Birmingham this Friday – and today is the final day to buy tickets online.

  Subject to availability, tickets will also be available on the door at St. Martin in the Bull Ring Church, but if you want to be assured of entry to our festively hilarious evening at the advanced discount rate, get your tickets today.

  And we're sure you'll want to be there, as the night will feature stand-up comedy from two of the UK’s best live acts – Jo Enright (Phoenix Nights) and Paul Kerensa (writer on Miranda) – and showcasing the madcap talents of folk-rock pastiche that is Folk On. And what better way to put yourself in the Christmas spirit than to have a good laugh?

  Tickets are £10 in advance, or £12 on the door. Doors open at 7pm, at St. Martin in the Bull Ring Church, Birmingham, B5 5BB. The venue has a bar, so get those tickets and prepare for a Greenbelty Christmas in the heart of the country.

  More information here: greenbelt.org.uk/comedygig

  
• 12:27

  Last day to buy Comedy Gig tickets online

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  As previously announced on the blog, we're hosting a one-off Christmas Comedy Night in Birmingham this Friday - and today is the final day to buy tickets online.

  Subject to availability, tickets will also be available on the door at St. Martin in the Bull Ring Church, but if you want to be assured of entry to our festively hilarious evening at the advanced discount rate, get your tickets today.

  And we're sure you'll want to be there, as the night will feature stand-up comedy from two of the UK’s best live acts – Jo Enright (Phoenix Nights) and Paul Kerensa (writer on Miranda) – and showcasing the madcap talents of folk-rock pastiche that is Folk On. And what better way to put yourself in the Christmas spirit than to have a good laugh?

  Tickets are £10 in advance, or £12 on the door. Doors open at 7pm, at St. Martin in the Bull Ring Church, Birmingham, B5 5BB. The venue has a bar, so get those tickets and prepare for a Greenbelty Christmas in the heart of the country.

  More information here: greenbelt.org.uk/comedygig

  
• December 06, 2011
• 16:24

  Celebrate Human Rights Day with Migrant Rights Centre Bristol

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Migrant Rights Centre Bristol are celebrating their first anniversary this Saturday, to coincide with Human Rights Day.

  The free Family Fun Day at Easton Community Centre, Bristol BS5 will feature dance workshops, a bouncy castle, face painting and lots of music – running from 12noon until 5pm.

  The Migrant Rights Centre Bristol is run by volunteers to promote human rights among migrants and their families, with the aim of eliminating the risk of poverty, exclusion, exploitation and discrimination in the Bristol area. There will be volunteers on hand throughout Saturday's festivities for anyone who wants to talk about issues experienced as a result of migration.

  Throughout its first year, the centre has assisted migrants and their families with a variety of difficult issues, contributing to local anti-deportation campaigns, and government and UN consultations. They are starting weekly drop-in sessions at the Easton Community Centre from this Friday to answer the questions of anyone affected by migration.

  The Family Fun Day will be a great event to mark a year of brilliant work, and for the people of Bristol to find out a bit more about this pioneering scheme on their doorstep.

  
• December 02, 2011
• 15:07

  Join Archbishop Desmond Tutu in defending Marc Ellis

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Past Greenbelt speaker, Jewish theologian Marc Ellis, is under threat of losing his post at Baylor University in the US. Ken Starr, former prosecutor of Bill Clinton, and currently President of Baylor University, wants to dismiss Marc's dissident Jewish voice from that institution.

  For more than three decades the prophetic voice of Marc Ellis has influenced generations of academics and activists. His dissident voice in the realm of contemporary Jewish identity and his theology of solidarity with Palestinians has been encouraged by numerous scholar-activists including Noam Chomsky, Edward Said, and the respected Christian leaders and thinkers – Rosemary Ruether, Cornel West and Archbishop Desmond Tutu – who are championing the petition to save his post now.

  Marc has served at Baylor with distinction for almost fifteen years as University Professor and Director of the Center for Jewish Studies. But since the appointment of Kenneth Starr as President of Baylor University, he is under scrutiny in what looks more and more like a persecution and less and less like an investigation.

  Please join Cornel West, Rosemary Ruether and Archbishop Desmond Tutu signing this petition.

  
• November 25, 2011
• 15:22

  Join the Producer Team

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Want to be part of the team who put together our brilliant programme, bringing your enthusiasm and expertise to make Greenbelt 2012 a huge success? We have some opportunities for you in this exciting and fulfilling team.

  Greenbelt has a staff team of ten who lead some 1,700 volunteers in making the festival happen each year. As part of this large volunteer base, we have a Producer Team who create the programme, alongside the Programme Manager and Programme Administrator. This makes us distinctive in the world of arts festivals.

  As a Producer, you will be expected to approach contributors (performers and speakers) about coming to the festival, make bookings, and ensure that they have no problems getting onto site and onto the stage. Onsite you’ll be volunteering alongside a variety of teams including Operations and Commercial, as well as our site production company.

  We are looking to find Producers for the following roles:

  -        Children and Family Programme
  -        Performing Arts Programme
  -        Music across the site (DJs, music workshops etc)
  -        Site specific programme (including street theatre)
  -        Workshops programme
  -        Talks workshop programme

  The producer role would suit you if you have an understanding of the Greenbelt ethos, and are keen to explore a mix of arts, faith and justice - click here to read more about our ethos and values…

  We would like you to have knowledge of performers and trends in the area you’ll be producing, you’ll be confident to make contact with key people, have a good eye for detail and be able to communicate with others to deliver the programme.

  We’ll provide an introduction to Greenbelt’s database and administrative systems, ongoing support from the Greenbelt team and agreed out-of-pocket expenses. You’ll be part of a creative and diverse team of volunteers and be an integral of making a festival happen.

  In order to fulfill this role, you will need to commit up to six Saturdays in January – June for Producer Team meetings, and additional time to produce your own area of the programme.

  You’ll be a key part of delivering the programme at the festival and will need to be on site at Cheltenham Racecourse from at least the evening of Thursday 23rd until Tuesday 28th August 2012. Producers will be expected to attend a Producer Team meeting on Saturday 14th January 2012 in Central London, more details will be provided.

  —

  If you are interested in joining the team, please send a C.V. and cover letter explaining why you’d like to join the team and what knowledge and experience you can bring to this role to Eleanor Mottram, Programme Manager eleanor@greenbelt.org.uk

  If you have any questions about the role, please get in touch with Eleanor on 020 7374 2755 or eleanor@greenbelt.org.uk

  Closing date for applications is Monday 12th December. We will be shortlisting candidates by Friday 16^th December.

  
• 14:31

  Greenbelt supports Occupy London

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Greenbelt has signed up as one of the 19 organisations to offer Christian support and solidarity to the Occupy London movement based near St Pauls Cathedral and at other sites around London.

  It joins Ekklesia, CSM, London Catholic Worker and many more organisations and individuals standing with "people of all religions and none who are resisting economic injustice with active nonviolence".

  The full statement that Greenbelt has signed up to is held here and here, and includes the following paragraph:

  We are inspired by Jesus, who protested against exploitative traders and moneychangers in the Jerusalem Temple. Christianity began as a grassroots protest movement. Nonviolent direct action can play an important and ethical role in resisting injustice and achieving change.

  Greenbelt's Director Paul Northup added the following comments:

  Greenbelt has taken the form of a festival over its thirty-eight years or so to date. So, when we see an encampment of tents, we get excited. It looks a bit like home to us. Somewhere we could belong.

  The fact that the Occupy London camp also finds itself on the steps of one of the main sites of Christian worship in the country, in the heart of the City of London, where our offices are based, too, only heightens the resonance for us.

  Greenbelt has sought to provide a space in which the tables can be turned. Where the marginalised are given a voice. We have been privileged to host key Drop the Debt and Jubilee 2000 campaigning moments and have celebrated non-violent resistance to oppression and injustice from all around the globe.

  That's why we want to add Greenbelt's name to those listed at the Christian Solidarity with the Occupy London movement website. Not to do so would seem to us to look the other way, to pass by on the other side.

  
• November 22, 2011
• 15:28

  Francis Khoo – respect

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  We were deeply saddened to learn of the death of Francis Khoo on Sunday 20 November 2011. Francis was due to speak at Greenbelt this year but had to pull out following a kidney transplant. He was with his wife Swee Ang when she spoke at the festival in 2010 and was keen to speak in 2012.

  Francis – and Swee – were really what social justice and the gospel is all about. He was an unsung hero whose life and 35 years in exile showed absolute dignity in the face of injustice. Respect to a follower of Jesus of Nazareth.

  For those wanting to say good-bye to Francis, the arrangements are:

  1. Chapel of rest – so you can spend a quiet moment with him Thursday afternoon and Friday morning. (24 November and 25 November). The address is A France and Son, 45 Lamb's Conduit Street, London WC1N 3NH, Tel 02074054901. Coffin closes around 11.30 am in preparation to take him across to church which is within wallking distance

  2. Church – 1pm 25 November 2011. If you want to be in church only the address is Corpus Christi Church, 1 Maiden Lane, Covent Garden and it is just 3 minutes walk from Covent Garden Underground. Service begins at 1pm but please be early. This is Francis' church.

  3. From Corpus Christi, Francis will be taken to Golder's Green Crematorium – where there will be a very short service and he will be cremated.

  
• November 18, 2011
• 11:58

  Greenbelt wins Greener Festival Award

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Following this year’s 20,00 strong event and much hard work, we're pleased to announce that Greenbelt has received the Greener Festival Award.

  Following the awards ceremony, which took place in Camden on Tuesday 15 November 2011, Head of Festival Karen Stafford said: “We’re delighted to have received our first Greener Festival Award. It is the result of much hard work and an important recognition of our commitment to sustainability. We hope to build on this, together with our festivalgoers, at next year’s festival and beyond!”

  Newly appointed Director Paul Northup said: “At the heart of Greenbelt festival is a desire to make the planet we share a better place. We mainly aspire to that through hosting art that inspires people to feel more fully human and to want to make a difference in their everyday lives. And our festival theme for 2012 is 'Saving Paradise'. But we constantly recognise the need to ‘practice what we preach’ – and this award demonstrates that we do just that.”

  The awards are made by environmental campaign and advice group A Greener Festival based on an event's carbon footprint, its traffic plans and its waste and recycling management schemes

  
• November 17, 2011
• 15:06

  Rev returns…

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  While browsing around the bookshop at Greenbelt 2010, you might just have spotted a camera man and a vaguely familiar vicar.

  The storyline filmed didn't quite make it past the editing room, but our love affair with BAFTA award winning Rev continues.

  If you missed last week's episode be sure to catchup on iPlayer, but most importantly tune in tonight as we have a sneaky suspicion it'll make every Greenbelter smile…

  And in case you missed it, check out the interview below with  series writer and co-creator James Wood.

  
• November 14, 2011
• 16:32

  One story. One thousand storytellers

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  If you were one of the people who were inspired by Greenbelt to have a go at film making this year, then have a look at this. The Nativity Factor is a short film competition from ITN Productions and the Sainsbury Trust, free to enter and open to everyone. 
£5,000 goes to the contestant who comes up with the most original and creative take on the Nativity story, with £1,000 going to the best Under-16 entrant. 

You don’t have to be an expert fimmaker to enter. Just grab a camera, film your idea and submit it for your chance to win a cash prize and see your video promoted around the world.

  To find out more, just go to www.thenativityfactor.com or take a look at this example of what you could do.

  
• November 08, 2011
• 20:05

  Christmas is a joke. No, really.

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Guest blogger James Cary, comedy writer of smash hit sitcoms like Miranda, tells it how it is …

  "Christmas is a joke; not the overblown commercial sense (although it is); nor even in the ‘the Christians just planted their own festival on top of Yule’ sense (which may be true). It is a joke in that the very fact of Christmas is funny.

  Jokes are all about incongruity – putting things together that don’t quite belong, and yet are connected somehow. In so doing, they create absurd situations and ideas. And that’s why Christmas is a joke. God, the supreme being in the universe who made everything, becomes a human. And not just a human, but a baby. When you think about, that’s completely crazy. It’s a joke.

  We don’t really think of Christmas as being funny, though. We think it’s nice. Fun. Cosy. Warming. Special, maybe. In fact, most of the jokes about Christmas – and themes for Christmas TV sitcom specials – is that it’s meant to be perfect, harmonious and peaceful, but the day itself never lives up to that. The Christmas adverts (all shot in South Africa in July) really romanticize the season and slap on a Dickens’ Christmas Carol gloss. (In one sense, a Christmas Carol is very worst kind of morality tale; a Christ-less Christmas, teaching us that we need to be nice to people or they’ll be glad to see us rot in hell when we die. When, in fact, the incarnation tells us that we are perhaps not as nice as we like to think; that we need ‘saving from our sins’; and that’s why Jesus shows up. But Scrooge is still a great story.)

  Celebrating Christmas with proper jokes and comedy, then, seems counter-cultural yet thoroughly Christian, somehow. Like exactly the kind of thing Greenbelt are into doing. So, that’s why there’ll be comedians gathering on Friday 16th December at St Martin-in-the-Bullring church in Birmingham. Yes, Christmas in a bull-ring. It’s got ‘stable’ written all over it. Ideal. And Jo Enright, Paul Kerensa and the now legendary Folk On will be performing a show with a Christmas vibe to it. After all, what could be more Christmassy than big laugh-out-loud jokes?"

  For more information and to book tickets click here.

  
• November 04, 2011
• 20:10

  We're looking for a new treasurer…

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  We're looking for a treasurer to join our Board of Trustees and to lend us the benefit of their experience with financial matters to ensure stability and growth for Greenbelt.

  If this sounds like you, or someone you know, please head to our Jobs section to find more details on what we're looking for and how to apply.

  Visit the Greenbelt Jobs section »

  
• October 31, 2011
• 9:30

  Meet our Trustees in Trustees' Week 2011

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Starting today, it's Trustees' Week 2011, highlighting the vital role of trustees to charities as they work together to make important decisions about each charity's work.

  Of course, Greenbelt has a board of trustees who meet regularly throughout the year to steer the organisation; skilled and knowledgeable people from all walks of life, who advise volunteers and staff members on the policies, heritage and potential of this great charity, and its associated festival.

  To mark Trustees' Week, we've updated our page of Trustees to feature new biographies and information about each person on our board. Click here to meet our Trustees »

  We have also started a process to bring new trustees onto the board, with new trustee appointments happening throughout the year. We'll have more news on the first appointments in due course.

  We'll be opening applications for trustees again soon, so if you think you could bring your professional or volunteer expertise to the table, as well as a unique angle on Greenbelt's work, our previous recruitment pack is here to give you more of an idea what we're looking for. We'll be particularly
  looking, over the medium term, for trustees who have legal, insurance and
  business governance skills and experience. Keep your eyes on the blog for further announcements about this soon into the new year.

  
• October 28, 2011
• 13:58

  Our Streets: Photography exhibition, London, November

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  The charity Street Action are hosting Our Streets, a photography exhibition reflecting experiences of street children in Burundi, Kenya and South Africa at the Menier Gallery in London, from 8-12 November.

  For thousands of children across Africa their home is the street and their future uncertain. Three photographers, Lizzie Everard, Matt Oldfield and Bex Morton, have captured the reality of life on these streets and the hope offered through Street Action and its partners in Burundi, Kenya and South Africa.

  The exhibition will run from Tuesday 8 to Saturday 12 November at the Menier Gallery on Southwark Street, SE1 1RU. The photographs featured in the exhibition will be available to purchase with proceeds going to support Street Action’s work.

  This year Street Action launched ground-breaking research into the physical and psychosocial health of street children which called for legislation to recognise their rights within the wider child rights agenda. The report, Including Street Children, allowed children to describe their own lives and the issues they face living on the streets. This exhibition takes their words and illustrates them within the context of their own streets.

  "I exist as you exist; I am connected to you in your triumphs and your challenges. When you are diminished, I am diminished. When you are raised up, I am raised up with you."

  Head to the Street Action website for opening times and more information »

  
• 13:39

  Church Urban Fund: Standing together to tackle poverty

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Greenbelt associates Church Urban Fund have unveiled a new campaign which aims to raise awareness of the transformative work that church-based community workers do with the poorest and most marginalised in this country.

  They're asking people to stand with these community workers by signing up to get information about specific areas of CUF's work.

  Join those standing together to tackle poverty at cuf.org.uk/together/standing

  Here's a short film to show just one of the excellent projects facilitated by CUF, see more at cuf.org.uk/stories:

  
• 12:53

  Join the Producer Team for 2011

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Greenbelt is a place where arts, faith and justice collide, and putting those elements into place for 2012 is our Producer Team.

  An evolution from the Programme Group, the Producer Team are the creative group of people behind the programme of music, performing arts, talks, literature, comedy, worship, film, visual arts for all ages – the under 5s, to the over 65s. They are volunteers who work year round to bring together the most interesting, inspiring, invigorating and intriguing programme for the Greenbelt audience to enjoy over the August bank holiday weekend.

  We are looking to recruit a number of producers to join the team. A producer needs to have a specific knowledge of their area, be self-motivated, have good contacts and relationships, have excellent administrative skills, and be willing to be part of the collaborative, creative team that bring the Greenbelt programme together. The role involves six meetings a year (usually on a Saturday) and an ongoing commitment to organising the programme area, producers can expect to volunteer up to 5 days a month.

  For more information, email linda@greenbelt.org.uk with your contact details…

  
• October 19, 2011
• 10:07

  Faith and Festivals Symposium in Birmingham – 9th November

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  New Greenbelt director Paul Northup will be speaking at the Faith and Festivals Symposium in Birmingham at the start of November.

  Taking place at Mac Arts Birmingham and organised by Soul City Arts, the symposium is being held to examine "the explosion of festival culture in the UK and how faith related perspectives impact". We're sure Paul has plenty to contribute on the topic, with his experience both on-stage and behind the scenes at Greenbelt.

  As well as Paul, speakers include Asad Jafri (Artistic Director, Inner City Muslim Action Network), Carl Christopher-Ansari (Sponsorship and Events Manager, Sony), Isata Kanneh (Events Producer, Celebrating Sanctuary Festival), Olivia McMenamin (Chair, Birmingham St Patricks Day Festival), and Sarah Bird and Rowan Hoban (Directors, Just So Festival).

  Registration for the event costs £20 if you book before Sunday 23rd October, £30 afterwards, and includes lunch and a screening of Mohammed Ali’s new documentary Writing on the Wall.

  Head to the Symposium website to book your place »

  
• October 14, 2011
• 16:24

  Join The Children’s Society for Evensong at St Paul’s Cathedral

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Here are Greenbelt associates The Children's Society with details of an event in London on November 15th…

  —

  At Greenbelt 2011 The Children’s Society launched the Make Runaways Safe Campaign. Over a thousand people at the festival signed up.

  Now join us at St Paul’s Cathedral to celebrate the successes of The Children’s Society’s Make Runaways Safe Campaign, and to pray for a continued effort to help tens of thousands of children and young people who run away in the UK each year. The evensong will take place at St Paul’s on the eve of the launch of Still Running 3, our latest research report on the state of runaway children in the UK.

  The Bishop of Truro, Tim Thornton, will deliver a sermon reflecting on the campaign. Celebrities and dignitaries will also attend.

  Please join The Children’s Society for a unique service in a unrivalled location to help make a difference for Runaways in the UK. Celebrate with us in worship, pray for our work and join our campaign now at makerunawayssafe.org.uk to make a difference to those without a safe haven and without a voice.

  To attend the event, contact the Supporter Care Team at 0845 300 1128 or supportercare@childrenssociety.org.uk, quoting the reference EVEN. The Supporter Care Team can also be contacted during working hours about any other general enquiries you may have.

  Please arrive to be seated by 4.45 pm.

  
• October 04, 2011
• 15:52

  Candoco Dance Company: Turning 20

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  The brilliant Candoco Dance Company - who were so thrilling at Greenbelt 2011 – bring the celebrations of their 20th anniversary to the South Bank Centre in London, with a special residency featuring performances, films and debates…

  The season kicks off with A Typical Dancer (9th October), a programme of short films co-curated by Candoco's Pedro Machado, with the autobiographical solo piece Evolution by Claire Cunningham on the 11th and 12th of October.

  Candoco's Turning 20: Anniversary Bill features three pieces from across their history, including the piece Set and Reset seen in Cheltenham over the summer – that's on 14th and 15th October. Finally, the company hosts a debate about the aesthetics and politics of dance and disability, featuring dancemakers, programmers and commentators, on the 15th October.

  For full details of all of these performances, and others appearing in the South Bank Centre's Dance Umbrella series, head to the SBC's website »

  
• October 03, 2011
• 11:17

  CFTA & Trust Greenbelt: Improving Children's Lives in Gaza

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Trust Greenbelt – our way, as a festival community, of supporting projects in faith, arts and justice both in the UK and globally – has been working for a couple of years with Culture and Free Thought Association (CFTA), an organisation operating in the Khan Younis area of the Gaza Strip.

  We've written before on the blog about the work of this brilliant organisation, and now CFTA's partners at Christian Aid have prepared the following video about the work of the Association in empowering young people, and fighting against child labour:

  Donations for Trust Greenbelt come from the collection after Communion at Greenbelt, but you can donate throughout the year at this webpage »

  
• 9:45

  Greenbelt 2011: What did you think?

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  As announced in Dispatches last week, we've released our annual feedback survey to allow all our festivalgoers to let us know what they thought of the festival, whether your experience was brilliant, good, or had room for improvement…

  Fill in the survey here »

  —

  And don't forget, we have several other surveys available to feed back your opinions on various parts of the festival including…

  Partners & Associates survey »
  Youth at GB11 survey »

  
• September 30, 2011
• 14:22

  More Iona tour dates announced

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Following the success of their tour earlier this year, progressive Celtic rock favourites Iona will be on tour again this October.

  See below for full tour dates, or check out their gig list on their website for more details and ways to book.

  Wed 12th Oct Leicester – Musician

  Thurs 13th Oct London – Half Moon Putney

  Fri 14th Oct Farncombe – St Johns Church

  Sat 15th Oct Bolton – Kings Church

  
• 10:48

  With deep affection and respect for Jessy Dixon

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Garth Hewitt writes:

  The remarkable gospel singer Jessy Dixon died on the 26th of September at his home in Chicago. He was 73. Jessy was a legend both in terms of songwriting and performance. He understood the power of gospel music to bring hope and to challenge people. He became known to many who weren't so familiar with gospel when he collaborated with Paul Simon on a couple of albums. It was after hearing him on a live Paul Simon album that I asked his agent in the UK if he could come with his singers and sing on an album I was recording called I'm Grateful. The studio was so excited he was coming they got a special guest book so he could sign it. At that time we recorded four songs together.

  Ten years back I did a concert with him for Christian Aid in Bloomsbury Chapel in London, and after hearing my song Feast of Life he asked if he could produce a version of it. A year or so later we recorded it down in ICC studios in Eastbourne. It is an exhilarating version of the song with Jessy on Hammond organ and vocals and Elsa Harris on piano.

  Jessy appeared at Greenbelt Festival many times. He was extremely popular and his warmth and his musical style inspired many people. Late night at Greenbelt listening to Jessy was always an unforgettable experience. In his later years Jessy recorded beautiful material with Bill Gaither's Homecoming team. His incredible versatility came to the forefront and it was on the Bill Gaither Show that I heard him talk about the fact that Mahalia Jackson had flown across the country to lay hands on Jessy before she died to symbolise the passing on of the gift of gospel music.

  He made an album with Bill Gaither called I saw the Light which is an unbeatable gospel classic. It is an album for the hard times. It is a gospel of hope that acts as therapy – songs like Master the Tempest is Raging, I can't even walk (without you holding my hand) and Thank you Lord are deeply powerful.

  Jessy will be missed, but he will continue to inspire as people listen to his music and realise that he was a dedicated man who showed us the true passion, hope and poignancy of gospel music.

  The song Feast of Life with Garth Hewitt and Jessy Dixon and two songs All the Time and The Holy One has Crossed the River, from the I’m Grateful session, are available on the 30 album on iTunes.

  Pictured above: Jessy Dixon and the Jessy Dixon Singers recording with Garth Hewitt for I’m Grateful in 1978.

  
• September 23, 2011
• 15:57

  Wild Thing prints from The Hub

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  The Wild Things mask-making, print-making and Wild Rumpus in the Hub were highlights of many of you at this year's Greenbelt. Here's a collection of some of the mix-and-match Wild Thing prints created over the weekend.

  Si Smith, who masterminded the project, wrote about the process of creating these prints on his blog:

  we got punters to cut a block of either a head, body or legs and then to choose the remaining body parts from a growing selection of blocks cut by me [in advance] and their fellow greenbelters to make complete wild things. here are some composite pics of wild things showing every block cut during the festival [we had more bodies than legs being cut, and way more heads than both put together, hence some body parts appear quite often...]

  You can click on these images for larger versions. Can you spot yours?

  

  
• 15:25

  The Gospel According To Everyone

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Writer and Greenbelt trustee Martin Wroe spoke on his new book, The Gospel According To Everyone, at Greenbelt 2011. Featuring portraits by Meg Wroe, the book contains "twelve short stories of faith and doubt, of love and longing by people you may recognise from a church you've never been to". Here's Martin, with an introduction to the themes of the book…

  —

  There are many good reasons not to go to church but one of the best arguments in favour is that you get to meet people who are not like you. People who do not share your interest in baton twirling or caravanning, your passion for real ale or classic vinyl LP's.

  Over time you get to know people who would otherwise have remained strangers. Then, one morning – stumbling through an eccentric hymn, kneeling at the communion rail, sharing a fairly-traded coffee – you catch a glimpse of their secret life, a story you've never heard.

  The spinster who gave up her child for adoption. The gay man, once married with kids,  now barred from contact with his grandchildren. That woman on the till at Tesco… being beaten by her partner.

  As you get to know these people who are not like you and they gradually reveal their story, you realise that they are as much the gospel truth as anything you ever heard from lectern or pulpit. You realise, as someone has put it, that "The Church is the Fifth Gospel".

  When I discovered this I began writing up the stories of people in our  community and on a Sunday morning we started including a reading from this Fifth Gospel, celebrating the lives of people we hadn't realised we didn't really know.

  Stories of faith and hope, love and longing. The odd fleeting sense of divine company. Good news even on the days when the news was mainly bad. Gospel truths in the lives of your friends and neighbours. A Gospel According To Everyone.

  We’re surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses says a writer whose letter is recorded towards the end of the Bible. But most of the time we fail to witness these witnesses, fail to listen as they reveal their rich and deep and moving stories. They come from everywhere and have arrived in the same place as us, a community of faith, travelling along in the hope of a sign of grace, a glimpse of the divine.

  When we stop to listen, we hear snatches of the good news in all our stories. Why not start listening to the Fifth Gospel in your community?

  —

  The Gospel According To Everyone is published as a book on Lulu, as an iBook in the iTunes Store, and as a Kindle E-Book.

  
• September 22, 2011
• 14:39

  Beginners' Guide to Activism: Musical Results

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Greenbelt's Youth programme had plenty of highlights this year, from exclusive acoustic sessions in the Shed, to zingy debates with delicious cake. A further highlight were the Beginners' Guide to Activism sessions – in which 80 young Greenbelters found out how creative projects in music and craft can help individuals and groups make a stand for justice issues.

  Greenbelt worked with our partners Christian Aid, who gave great depth to the two sessions with their in-the-field expertise. They brought the brilliant Juliyaa to share her talents and unique insight with the group interested in activism in music. Here's what she thought of the session:

  The Beginners guide to Music in Activism was a fantastic workshop to run at the Greenbelt Festival 2011. 50 young people attended the workshop on the Sunday and the young people came together to produce a fantastic piece of work. The idea was to get young people to start thinking about issues of injustice and poverty that evoke strong responses within them. Using this emotion, many themes emerged such as world hunger, corrupt politics and child soldiers. Then using the creative talents already within them, they put lyrics and melodies, to create a song which came from a true and honest place. Many young people have something they want to say about the world and all that goes on within it, music is a powerful and universal tool that can be tapped into, and everyone has an inner voice waiting to be heard!

  Hannah Henderson from Christian Aid said:

  These guys created an entire song in just a one hour session that was filled with passion and energy, a desire to make some sort of change in the world. They were inspirational to watch and the outcome is great!

  Here's our Youth Participation Coordinator Becky Smith:

  There was such a great vibe in the Shed throughout the session. When they groups got up to perform their verses while the musicians played, it was seriously thrilling and inspirational… XLP were so accommodating in letting them lay down the tracks and I am so grateful that their enthusiasm and passion was able to be professionally captured. I hope that by sharing this that people will really listen to the lyrics and the call for people to act and respond.

  The Eternal Flame by Greenbeltfestival

  XLP also worked throughout the weekend to find and encourage the musical talents of young people. A selected few were chosen to perform at the XLP Showcase on the final night at the Shed.  Here's another song recorded in the XLP van, and created over the weekend. It's based on the Greenbelt 2011 theme Dreams of Home.

  Dreaming Of Home by Greenbeltfestival

  —

  If you are one of the young people on the recording we'd like to hear from you. Email Becky Smith at becky@greenbelt.org.uk
  If you were at this workshop, we want your feedback. Complete our youth survey »

  
• September 21, 2011
• 11:12

  Tottenham Palestine Literature Festival – 29th Sept to 2nd October

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  With Palestine making the news headlines at the moment in the run-up to their bid for statehood at the UN, it's particularly timely that the Tottenham Palestine Literature Festival is due to place in London next weekend – a collection of events featuring writers, film makers, rappers, photographers, story tellers and Tottenham locals as they "listen, talk, learn, rap, discuss, watch, question and share ideas on Palestine".

  Hosted by Haringey Justice for Palestinians, the enviable list of participants include names familiar to Greenbelt like Reem Kelani and Ghada Karmi, alongside other notable figures like poet Michael Rosen, filmmaker Peter Kosminsky, and author China Miéville.

  The timetable runs from Thursday 29th September with an opening screening of Kosminsky's The Promise. Events then continue throughout the weekend, culminating with a festival concert on Saturday 1st, and a brunch and open mic event on Sunday 2nd October. Take a look at the full timetable of events »

  The festival sounds like a fascinating and important look at the situation, with intelligence, care and creativity. Do check it out if you're in the area.

  For further information on the festival and the ethos behind it, visit the Tottenham Palestine Literature Festival website »

  
• September 19, 2011
• 15:51

  Greenbelt Partner Survey 2011

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Greenbelt is incredibly proud of its partners, associates and sponsors – organisations and charities who work with Greenbelt at the festival and throughout the year to inform our loyal Greenbelters about their brilliant work both in the UK and around the world.

  To help both Greenbelt and our associated organisations to get the most out of the festival, we've prepared a very short survey to see how the various organisations that we worked with this year made an impact at this year's festival. Please be honest, and help us to make these organisations' experiences of Greenbelt even more valuable…

  Fill in the Partner Survey here »

  —

  For those of you that wish to comment more generally on this year's festival, we will be posting our full Greenbelt survey at the end of next week.

  
• 13:41

  Church House Bookshop: Get 10% off books

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  We're sure you paid a visit at Greenbelt to the excellent G-Books tent, run by our friends at Church House Bookshop. And even as the festival dims in the memory, there's still time to get great books – including those by Greenbelt speakers and artists – at a generous 10% discount…

  Simply head over to the Church House Bookshop's special Greenbelt section and use the code GB2011 at the checkout to get a discount…

  Visit the Church House Bookshop »

  The offer runs until the end of September, and is not valid in conjunction with other discounts.

  
• 10:45

  Christian New Media Awards: Greenbelt nominated

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Well, this is rather a surprise… We're not a little chuffed to announce that the Greenbelt Blog is in the running for Best Christian Blog at the Christian New Media Awards 2011.

  The winner will be announced on the 14th of October. For a full list of nominees and awards, see the Christian New Media Awards website.

  Thanks for the nomination, and best of luck to the other blogs in our category. Click through to take a look:

  JModern Jesus Army Blog
  Dr Peter Saunders' blog
  Science and Belief
  Transpositions
  The Vernacular Curate
  Vickybeeching.com
  The Redeemed Mind [Formerly The Failed Atheist]
  UK Pilgrims

  
• September 16, 2011
• 14:51

  Brian Houston: Live In Leeds

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  East Belfast singer songwriter Brian Houston heads to Leeds as part of his UK tour in support of latest release Three feet from Gold, which has been hailed by critics and fans alike.

  He appears as part of the regular gigs at All Hallows Church – more information from their website, or the event's Facebook invite.

  Tickets now available from Facebook (advance £7+£1 fee), or from Jumbo Leeds (£8 + fees).

  "One of Britain’s great song writers" – Bob Harris
  "Each song is a well made beauty… humble perfection" – Paste Magazine USA
  "Effortlessly bridges the gap between the impish twinkle in the eye and fragile openness" – Net Rhythms

  
• 11:33

  Three Faiths Forum: Visual Artists Required

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  The Three Faiths Forum aims to build positive relationships between people of different faiths and beliefs. Now, they're looking for visual artists to take part in their Urban Dialogues project, intended for artists who wish to engage in "interfaith and intercultural encounters through a creative medium".

  From November 21st to December 5th 2011, Urban Dialogues will be holding an Interfaith Arts Exhibition, and they are offering visual artists the chance to exhibit and sell artwork at this and other faith-based art galleries – including the Mica Gallery, the Jewish Museum and the Sacred Space Gallery.

  For more information, see the Three Faiths Forum website, check out the poster below (click for larger version), or email hadiya@threefaithsforum.org.uk

  

  
• 9:00

  Vote for Greenbelt 2011 in the Festival Awards

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  We're excited to be up for the public vote at the Festival Awards again this year – and you could win an amazing prize just for supporting your favourite faith, arts and justice festival!

  The public vote opens today, and we would love you to vote for us in the Fan’s Favourite Festival category.

  Vote for Greenbelt as Fan's Favourite Festival now »

  And if you vote, you get entered into a prize draw to win a Dream Summer – two tickets to every winning festival at the 2011 Festival Awards.

  Voting taks place from today until 5pm on the 10th October, with the winners announced at the UK Festival Awards on 15th November.

  

  
• September 12, 2011
• 14:50

  Under The Influence – The Garth Hewitt Songbook

   » ‎ Greenbelt Blog

  

  Under The Influence is an album of songs written by Greenbelt legend Garth Hewitt, as covered by an enviable roster of artists from around the globe, including Martyn Joseph, Stu G (Delirious?), Reem Kelani (watch a video montage set to her contribution here) and Bell Jar.

  Created to mark the 25th anniversary of Garth's charity Amos Trust, the project was coordinated by Amos chair of trustees and former Greenbelt director Beki Bateson, and all the artists on the album generously gave their time free as a birthday gift to Amos. In introducing the collection, Beki said:

  In 2010 Amos Trust celebrated 25 years of commitment to justice and hope for the forgotten, alongside 40 years of its director Garth Hewitt as an ordained priest. At the heart of Amos has been Garth's music and at the heart of his music has been a theology shaped and inspired by the many people he has met and listened to across the world throughout his ministry.

  Sir Cliff Richard, a friend and supporter of Garth's work, who has previously covered Garth's songs, said:

  Garth is unique amongst Christian singers. For forty years his music and ministry have fearlessly focused on issues of injustice and poverty, and have challenged and influenced a generation. It has been my privilege to share a stage and a recording studio with this exceptional, gifted and devoted servant of God.

  The album is a limited release, with numbered editions, so click here to order your copy from the Amos Trust shop »