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Balloon tutorials

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A warm welcome to "Balloon Chat".

The site is completely "free" to use, so please take your time and look around the forum and enjoy this wonderful world
of ours that is, balloon art. We do hope you like what you see and will actively take part and join in with the forum.
Perhaps it will give you the bug to try twisting for yourself. If so we do have a balloon tutorial section that
has the instructions for some basic designs which will hopefully get you up and running with a list and some
explanations of all the different twists and bubble phrases that are used within the balloon community.

But please be warned, balloon modelling is very addictive.
(Link to balloon tutorials)

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Joining The Balloon Chat Forum
Please just click on the "Register" button above to activate your account.

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Twist and Shout Balloon Convention

Twist and Shout Balloon Convention Twist and Shout Balloon Convention (Link to website) which is run by Patty and Royal Sorell have just announced the line up for the instructors for there forthcoming event in Burlington, Massachusetts from the 16/20th Feb 2011. The event is being held
at the Boston Marriot Hotel with an all star line up that includes, Vicky Kimble, Asi Cohen, David Brenion, Stretch, Michael Clay and Balloon Chat's very own Tonya McNeill with other names to be added shortly. Pre convention special is a full days masterclass series on the 16th Feb for $99 with the now legendary pajama party run by Laura Caldwell and Tawney Noreen taking place on the Wednesday evening. There are competitions to join in and enjoy, small, medium and large sculpture and the artistic figure. The welcome reception takes place on the Thursday evening with the stage competition on Friday and the gala and awards ceremony taking place on the Saturday night with private classes available on the Sunday. A full few days of twisting fun is planned for everyone and you can still take advantage of the early bird special price of just $175.
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"Care & Share" Days, New Sponsor.
The Care & Share balloon fun days have been running for over five years now and Graham
Lee would like to thank all those that have supported the days and provided sponsorship
over the years. Sempertex balloons for the first four years and Balloon Art Wholesale for this year. The days now have a brand new sponsor, Qualatex balloons. It is a big commitment in both time and financially and the sponsorship is appreciated, it will help in taking the days forward which will benefit our balloon industry while helping to promote our art form to the general public. The days are expected to follow the as known route with hopefully a couple
of surprises thrown in along the way. The sponsorship deal will run until the end of 2012
with three Care & Share days for this year and seven days in 2011 and 2012.

Qualatex Balloons
SPECIAL OFFER, "The David Grist Memorial Lecture"
Due to the sponsorship of the care and share balloon fun days there will be a special offer for those that book till the
end of August for the David Grist Memorial Lecture on the 8th Sept in Birmingham. The £25 fee will include a buffet
lunch and a £10 voucher to spend on balloons at the day. For more details and to book for the day; (Link)
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The Millennium Jam, www.millenniumjam.com

The Millennium Jam, Nov 7/11th
A week not to be missed and one that will definitely change
your life. Welcome to the world's best balloon convention hosted by Leo Verlinden and all the gang. (Link to website)The convention kicks off with a gala award ceremony on the Saturday for the distributors of Pioneer Europe and then it's
not stop workshops/seminars, 24 hour jam room, evening entertainment, including the cocktail bar with Koen and Jochem
with there very special brand of humour and drinks. Then it's competition time with The Iron Latex Man, single balloon and
multi balloon competitions. Artistes performing this year at the convention include, Alberto Falcone, Dee White, Flipo, Luc Bertrand, Mimosa, Peter Van Engen, Robbie Firman, Sean Rooney, master of ceremonies being Tom Bibo and Manon
. "WIN A "FREE" RGISTRATION"
Leo has very kindly donated a free registration to;
"The Millennium Jam"
that is being held in Mol, Belgium from the 7/11th Nov. All
you have to do is answer ten basic balloon questions and enter
a sculpture of your choice to be in with a chance to win a registra
tion worth 225 Euro's for the full convention. Details about winning this fantastic prize can be found here; ()
There is also an organised trip going out to the convention
from the UK, more details can be found here.
()

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David Grist DVD's, New Artwork
The complete set of nine DVD's is now available with all new artwork to bring this excellent set of balloon modelling DVD's more up to date with a friendly buy me, buy me shelf life look. David who was a true star in the balloon industry passed away in 2005 and since then all proceeds from the sales of his DVD legacy have been donated to his family.With each DVD sale a donation of £10 goes to the Grist family. Each DVD is available for £15 with the complete set at £110. (Link to sales)
David Grist Balloon Modelling DVD Set Jimmy Carlo (Link) has done an excellent job of updating the DVD's with a nice clean crisp look and feel to them. If you have any artwork requirements, Jimmy has designed for Terry Herbert, Pat Fallon and now has the time to design for Magicians, Clowns, Children’s Entertainers, with publicity logo's, DVD sleeves/body printing, and duplication.
David Grist Balloon Modelling DVD Set
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*****Two New Las Vegas Balloon Conventions*****
Sad news was reported last week that Dave Scott had to pull out of running Diamond Jam and Summer Balloon Camp
this August due to a low turn out of registrants. The balloon world being what it is rallied around and two new conventions have been organised in a matter of days to run Aug 9/11th at the Tuscanny Suites, Las Vegas;
(Balloon convention, Tuscanny SuitesLink to venue)
There is a one day twisting convention, Alterna Jam on the 9th August
(Balloon Twisting Convention, Alterna JamLink to website) which is followed on the
10/11th August with Balloonstitute
for the balloon decorators; (Balloon Convention, BalloonstituteLink to website) Top names from the world of twisting, decorating and even manufacturers are all pulling together so that those who had booked flights, hotel and registration for Diamond Jam and Summer Balloon Camp had somewhere to go this August.
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PAFFA, Police and Armed Forces Families Association
Mr Tony, Face painting and balloon modelling Mr Tony and Anna were kept busy at the Police
and Armed Forces Families Association

fund raiser in Bicester on the 11th July. PAFFA
(PAPPA, Police and Armed Forces Families AssociationLink, website) was founded in October 2007
to help and support the families of those who are in the armed forces and particularly those serving
away from home during these troubled times. This was the couples fourth time of supporting such a good cause and the day was a great success and a lot of fun. Anyone who would like more info; or to offer support to the association can do so via the above website. To find out more about Mr Tony
and his balloon modelling and Anna with her face painting then please visit their website;
(Mr Tony Balloon Modelling and Anna Face PaintingLink)
Mr Tony, Face painting and balloon modelling
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Tonya McNeill, Wrist Critters
Tonya (Tonya McNeill PortfolioLink to portfolio) has just brought out her new CD "Wrist Critters" in a PDF format with twenty different wearables. There is a good selection to choose from, Goat, Elephant, Polar Bear, Giraffe, Bunny, Tiger, Dog, Bull, Hippo, Lamb, Eagle, Pig, Swan, Chicken, etc. The puppy dog, right has a very nice look with the distorted heart technique being used.The cost is only $25 if emailed with
a small surcharge for posting. Please get in touch with Tonya via her website to order, (Tonya McNeill websiteLink to website)
Tonya McNeill, Wrist Critters Tonya McNeill, Wrist Critters
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Neon, single colours and assortment NEON's Single Colours
The assortment selection has been available for a while on the Qualatex balloons website and now
the full range of single neon colours, Orange, Pink, Magenta, Violet, Blue and Green are now all in stock. Retail customers, (www.qualatexballoons.co.ukLink ) Please email if you wish to set up a wholesale account.
qualatex balloons
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NABAS Balloon Convention.
"Festival Of Balloon Art" Stoneleigh Park, October 16/17th
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The design and portfolio day, Sat 16th, This exclusive one day hands on workshop gives 50 lucky people the chance to learn from the masters as under the instruction of Industry experts you will create a stylish and stunning room decor for the evening's party on the theme of "Fairy Tale Kingdom" from enchanted woods to charming centre pieces and captivating castle walls.
Seminars and hands on workshops, Sun 17th with sixteen classes to choose from and a trade stand hall with many leading industry names. There is plenty to keep your day full to brimming with plenty of opportunity to learn from some of the leading Industry experts. For more details and to book; (NABAS WebsiteLink to NABAS Website)

NABAS Balloon Festival NABAS Balloon Festival NABAS Balloon Festival
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Bonnie Davis, aka Bonnie The Balloon Lady
Bonnie has just brought out another CD, Braclets, this is her ninth in the series to date. The others available are;
Wearables Vol. 1 & 2, A Bit of Bling, Bash Notes, Thunder Thighs, Sitters, 2fers, The Flower Garden. (Bonnie The Balloon Lady, CD linkLink to CD's )

Bonnie The Balloon Lady CD Bracelets being the latest CD with an excellent selection of models to choose from; Swan, Owl, Whale, Crocodile, Spider, Butterfly and many more. This instructional CD is in a printable
PDF format. All 22 instructions come complete
with step-by-step, full colour photos. The fish selection and the swan are probably my
favourite but I can see the duck braclet being
the most popular due to it's simplicity and "cute" factor. The price is a very reasonable $25 with
a $5 handling charge for CDs mailed outside
of the US. For more details please email
Bonnie at; ionaford1@yahoo.com
Bonnie The Balloon Lady CD
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World Balloon Convention
World Balloon Convention, Qualatex

The world balloon convention (Qualatex World Balloon Convention, DallasLink to website) took place in Dallas, 15/18th April and was a huge success with over 700 delegates attending from 46 countries. There was over 130 classes taught from instructors from all over the world, so definately something for everyone. The competitions were outstanding with truly stunning creations being made. The winning entry seen here was entered by Team Italia which was led by Federico Onida of Balloon Express in Calgari. The highlight for many was the "Festival Of Balloons" event which was open to the general public so that they could see what the possibilities were with balloons and how balloon art has come on in recent years. Colin Myles writes; After so long without a flagship event such as IBAC made me wonder if the WBC could step into these rather large footprints, It did and more! The standard of the competition pieces I thought were as high as I have ever seen, with the Japanese and Italian sculptures a class above anything else.The decorations for the final night were simply stunning; Rocky Toomey and
Sue Bowler both did an outstanding job on what must be the most difficult assignment in the balloon industry. The festival of balloons on the Sunday was an experience that I think we will never forget. I may be wrong but nearly 10,000 visitors viewed the balloon sculptures.  I do not think anyone could have anticipated such a turnout - in fact some visitors had to wait for almost an hour to get inside. Luc Bertrand and myself were asked to make balloons for the children who were waiting and, as neither Luc nor myself are entertainers, this proved to be one of our biggest challenges of  the week, but it was a lot of fun. In fact the whole WBC event was a LOT OF FUN. So the question is, will it be repeated in 2011 or possibly 2012?
For more details and pictures; (Link to progressive party website)

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FUN IN THE SUN,
Dov Citron, aka "Captain Calamity" from Madhouse Entertainments has been in touch;
I'm on the look out for seven passionate entertainer's/magicians/balloon twisters, ideally with experience performing in
front of audiences of children and families. After some initial training you will head off to sunnier climates for six weeks
(end of July through August 2010). You will be given an intensive training program before you go live!
And then you will be out in some f...abulous holiday resorts across the med working on the Thomson Extra
entertainment program. Your main roles will be to deliver interactive character driven poolside entertainment as
an array of silly characters, perform party style interactive shows and evening entertainment. For more info.
Please contact Dov: 07985 535472 or email; dovcitron@hotmail.com

 
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"Balloons Around The World"
Become a part of the fun this year!  Let's take the opportunity in 2010 to highlight the incredible world of balloon sculpting.
How can you help to increase the level of our art? Consider getting a group of people together to make a giant sculpture,
creating your own event within this event. What is Balloons Around the World? Jeff Brown (Link to website) has been running and organising this event for a few years now andIt's a chance for balloon artists to work together globally, donating an hour or more to a good cause in their community. I’m sure a lot of us already do that, but by doing it as a massive group, on or around
the first Wednesday of every October
we can increase the worldwide profile of the balloon art form.
Jeff Brown

It's a great chance to showcase your talent and to
give back to the community and perhaps get some media attention along the way. Artists who take part get a free 2-1/4" button - this year again designed by the fabulous Nina Dees - and are listed in the on-line directory. Most of your other questions can be answered by checking out the website.

(
Link to website)

Jeff Brown
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Celebrating 25 Years, The Legends Tour.
T.Myers magic and balloons will be celebrating 25 years in the business this year and Gus Davis the new owner has organised the legends tour taking place in over 40 locations all over the USA. Artistes appearing include, Robbie Furman, Ralph Dewey, Andrew McDonald, Don Caldwell, Jeanine Von Essen, Royal Sorrell, Billy Damon, Todd Neufeld,
Alberto Nava, Jack Mattson, Lary Moss and last but not least the man who is organising the tour Gus Davis.
The day will begin with a special 9.oo/2.3o pm DecoTwisting class taught by international instructor Robbie Furman,
then follows two hands-on workshops being presented by one of the legendary guest instructors, 3/5 and 7/9 pm.
As part of your registration, you will receive at the door balloon kits provided by Qualatex that will have everything you
will need to make the figures in both class's. To finish off the day from 9/11.oo pm there will be jamming and contests!
So a fantastic fun filled day. For more details; (Link)
T.Myers, Legends Tour
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"Art With A Twist"
Young artist and balloon twister Chelsea of "Balloongenuity" in Indiana
had searched for months to find balloon animal jewellery. When her
search yielded no results, she decided to make her own. The first pair
of earrings were so popular with family and friends that she began
making charms and necklaces as well. Soon she decided to open
"Art with a Twist", an online web store, her jewellery is now available in many different styles, colours and sizes. 
To view the full range; (Link to website)  
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BAPIA (The Balloon And Party Industry Association)
John Bowler who has over 20 years of experience within the balloon community and many will know him via his association with Conwin, has started up a new organisation, BAPIA is set up to serve and promote
the interests of the Balloon and Party industry and all those working in it. Promoting and marketing the benefits of using industry professionals to the general public is a major priority for BAPIA as this will then generate greater awareness of the services offered by our members and create customer referrals.
For more details; (Link to BAPIA website)
Enza Mandello Sue Bowler
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Brendan Healy

Charity Auction Success

The Assembly rooms in Newcastle hosted businessmen and personalities from across the North East taking part in a bidding war for
some highly coveted prizes at a charity lunch
this month. Helping to raise over £13,000 for three of the region’s top charities was a balloon parody of one of the north east's top comics, Brendan Healy. This was created by Dillinger Entertainments (Link to website)
The parody raised £300, although it was
agreed to reduce that to £100 when it was realized the bidder was slightly the worse for ware and had been over come with emotion
at the sight of his favourite comedian modelled out of balloons.

Parody of Brendan Healy
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May Madness, "FREE" Shipping
Balloon Art Wholesale are offering a May madness moment with "Free" shipping on all orders over £100. With nearly 600 product items between the two sites; (Link, Sempertex)
(Link, Qualatex) and the metallic hearts having just been
added to the Qualatex site there is plenty of choice. Balloons, Pumps, Aprons/Busking Bags and DVD's including the latest DVD from Thelma and Graham, "It's Quicker By Tube" which explains how to insert almost anything inside a clear balloon without using an expensive stuffing machine, are all included in the promotional discount which works out from a 10% saving. Please note the only item not included in the offer is the Mcpump one stroke balloon floor pump that should be in stock very soon.
Levett and Lee
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Balloon Art Wholesale, New Adventure.
Lyn and Graham who have been running their balloon wholesale business, Balloon Art Wholesale for the past four years
via their website shop www.sempertexballoons.co.uk (Link) and through the "Care &Share" days that they organise
all over the UK promoting balloon modelling. (Link to "Care & Share" Info) They recently had the opportunity to
expand the business and are now pleased to offer the Qualatex range of balloons via their new website shop;

www.sempertexballoons.co.uk www.qualatexballoons.co.uk (Link) They
have a good variety of products availabe from
the Qualatex catalogue but if there is something
not stocked then please get in touch as they are more than happy to get you a quote for the items you require and are looking to add more popular items to the website.
Please note there is NO VAT to add to either site.
www.qualatexballoons.co.uk
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World Balloon Convention

World Balloon Convention
Takes place April 15/18th in Dallas, Texas with over $10,000 prize money up for grabs. There is a star studied line up of instructors to learn from , including Tom Saeys, Alberto Falcone, Fiona Fisher and the lovely Robbie Furman to name but a few with a grand gala show and dealer hall to view all the latest releases from the balloon world. Possibly the highlight of the event could be the behind the scenes guided tour of the Qualatex plant into how the balloons are manufactured, well worth a visit.(Link to website)

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CARE and SHARE DAYS plus SPECIAL PARTY DAY
There are two care and share days coming up, Wed 28th April in Darlington (Details) and Monday 10th May in Bristol. (Details) Both days run from 10 till 5 and will have three lecture/workshops to enjoy throughout the day. Either day is only £10 to attend.
On Wed 30th June in Birmingham we have a very special day to put in your diaries,
"Celebrating The Art Of Balloon Modelling"
This will be a fun party day which will run from 10 till 6 with a mystery instructor plus all the fun, games and competitions of a normal care & share day with some added surprises along the way to make it a day not to miss,
with guaranteed fun for all. The cost for the day is just £15 and includes a buffet lunch.
(Details)
(To Book)

Leeds Care & Share Day Birmingham Performance Day Care & Share Day
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Diamond Jam/Summer Balloon Camp
The place to be this summer is Las Vegas, USA for the joint balloon twisting and decorators convention, Diamond Jam for the twisters runs Aug 8/9th with the balloon fashion show and then Balloon Camp runs straight after from the 10/12th Aug. Dave Scott has organised a busy schedule. For more details; (Link)

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Tonya McNeill Tonya McNeill, New Releases
Tonya (Portfolio) has brought out a two new DVD's and a CD just recently, More Adjustable hats is the follow up to her very successful Adjustable Hats CD that came out last year, she taught this technique at America's number one twisting convention this year "Twist & Shout" She also has out two brand new DVD's "Blossom Bodies" which has 13 designs, all using a 6" geo blossom balloon for the foundation of the body and "Best Balloons For Boys" which has 14 of Tonya's favourite sculptures that are fairly quick and easy to make in a party situation. (More details)
Tonya McNeill
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Make A Smile Appeal
Billy Wiz, Make A Smile Appeal
Just a gentle reminder that Billy Wiz (Graeme Ash) is off to the Belarus orphanages very soon to perform his magic & balloon shows. As always Billy is looking for sponsorship, so if you can help out ; (Link to website) Or if you would
like to donate some balloons to the project that will be posted out on the 15th March ; (Link to donate balloons)
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Busking Bag Ready Balloons

Busking Bag Ready Balloons

Apron/Busking Bag Balloons, Ready To Roll
After people asking for a while now if someone could do a balloon
that is ready to use in the balloon Aprons and Busking bags, Balloon
Art Wholesale are now offering this service for a trial period.
So if you are fed up with spending the time and effort sorting your balloons why not try them out. The 160, 260 and 360 will come in
two 50 count drums and the 660 in two 25 count drums.
For more details.(Link to website)
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Lighter Than Air, Spring Tour Dates.
Danny Schlesinger is off on another whistle stop tour of the UK with his one man balloon show, "Lighter Than Air" Where strange and bizarre things happen to a wild balloon tamer. The show creates an utterly joyous experience loaded with surprises and laughs.
"This is a must see show which is a joy to watch for the whole family.
"

17th February, Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, Show at 2pm
20th February, The Maltings, Farnham, Hampshire, Show at 2pm
21st February, Winchester Discovery Dome, Hampshire, Show at 2pm
27th February, New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, Suffolk, Shows at 11am & 2pm
13th March, Hothouse Festival, Doncaster, South Yorkshire, Matinee Time TBC

ONLY LONDON SHOW
14th March - Jacksons Lane, Highgate, London - Show at 2pm

3rd April - Rutherglen Town Hall, East Kilbride - Show time TBC
10th April - Ammanford Miner's Theatre, Ammanford, Nr Swansea - 2pm
17th April - Quay Arts Centre, Isle of Wight - Show at 3pm
23rd April - Victoria Theatre, Settle, North Yorkshire - Show at 6.30pm
24th April - The Arc, Stockton-on-Tees, Cleveland - Show at 2.30pm
Details about the show, (Link to website)

Danny
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Elastic Park

Larry Moss is after your votes to help build Elastic Park via the Pepsi "Good Idea" Refresh Project, voting opens for the whole of February and you can vote every
day so giving maximum support, The summary for the project is;
Elastic Park is an exhibit, featuring a unique blend of art, pre- history, and pop culture. The multi-thousand-square-foot, interactive exhibit was inspired by
Michael Crichton’s popular novel, Jurassic Park.
Balloons are the medium used to create the exhibit. The unusual medium draws a very diverse crowd both for the construction phase and the display phase. This is important since all large scale Airigami creations are community based art projects. Community members are invited to participate in the 100,000 balloon creation, working alongside an international crew of skilled artists.
Visitors will walk among the creatures of the Triassic through Cretaceous periods,
as described in Crichton’s work. An audio tour with custom music and actor’s voices will guide everyone through, describing the creatures, the art, and telling
the story. Voting takes place from the 1st/28th February (Link to vote)
Larry also organises Balloon Manor which takes place every year in America.

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Practical Magic, Kidology Convention

Kidology, Children's Magic Convention. 7th September

Balloon chat member Dov Citron from madhouse kids (Link) will be presenting a lecture called, "What A Character!" which is all about character entertainment. Dov will be demonstrating how to theme magic routines, games, balloons, 'call and response activities', music, circus skills and
puppet shows to keep them in-tune with current children's trends, tv shows, hobbies and interests. With the right costume item quickly applied, coupled with appropriate catch phrases you can turn an entertainer into a Pirate, Superhero, Wizard or any number of different popular kids characters, including different approaches to entertaining different age groups.
The great line up to the day, includes major lectures from Alan Shaon, (My kind of kids' show) Craig Petty (Close up magic for kids) and Gary Dunn (Entertaining with nothing)
There is a choice of mini lectures to see from, Dov, Steve Dimmer, Mike Bradshaw and Olly Chaston. This is a must attend event with fifteen dealers who specialise in props for the childrens entertainer.
The day is run by Practical Magic/Albion Magic. For more details; (Link)

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Billy Wiz, Make a Smile Appeal
Graeme Ash Balloon Chat member, Billy Wiz, (aka Graeme Ash)
is taking his Magic & Balloon Show on a five week tour to Belarus and Ukraine on May 5th 2010.
Billy Wiz visited Belarus for the first time on the 20th anniversary of Chernobyl. During his visit he will tour hospitals, orphanages and village schools performing his magic shows for the children with the help of his balloon modelling bringing smiles and joy to many.
Graeme Ash
Graeme Ash

Billy soon realised he could bring some happiness to so many children, even for a short time giving them
the chance to forget about their illnesses. Billy has returned to Belarus many times in recent years and in May 2008 performed 37 shows in schools, hospitals
and orphanages, in fact where ever he could make a smile. For more information, photos and video clips;
(Link to website)

Graeme Ash
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January Sale........ Now On

Lyn and Graham are having their very first sale, with many items being reduced throughout the website.
How long will the sale be going on for?
Well at least until the13th Jan at the "Care & Share" day that will be taking place in Banstead.
More details about the day; (Link) Price reductions on the website are;
160/260's £3.25, now £2.99. 160/260 metallic £3.75, now £3.49. 360's £5.75, now £4.99.
660's £8.00, now £6.99. With a special offer for three bags of 660 assorted, only £19.00

(Link to website)

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Price Reductions. - The Sempertex website dealing with there online sales side of the business have reduced
the prices on the majority of products that are sold through the website by on average 15%. The price reductions have come about due to the new courier service and the reduced shipping costs. Lyn and Graham have decided that they have had enough of walking all the parcels to the local post office and have just started to trial a 48HR courier service for the month of December. If things go according to plan then from the New Year all parcels will be shipped this way, making
life a little easier but more importantly, all orders will have a tracking number so that at any time a parcel will be traceable.
(
Link to online sales)

Postage costs can be found here with full details about Insurance. (Link)

Sempertex Balloons

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Twist & Shout 2010, Chicago
Tonya McNeil Twist & Shout for next year is just around the corner with Chigaco, USA being the place to be at, Oak Brook Hills, 17/21st Feb. Featuring over fifteen of the top twisters from around the world to entertain and enlighten everyone in our wonderful world. Tonya McNeil
Featured artistes this year include, Jolene Jang, Debbie Stevens, Jan Iiams, Vicky Kimble, Asi Cohen, Stretch, Jonathan Fudge, Don Caldwell, Todd Neufeld, Rick Mohr, Randy Zacks, Smarty Pants, Melissa Gjergji, Tonya McNeil whose balloon art features in the pictures above. And last but not least there will be some old guy from Scotland, you know what's is name, the one that no one can understand..................I remember now my good friend Colin Myles. So with plenty going on it should be a fun filled experience for everyone. For more information and booking details; (Link to website)

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Marie Dadow (Just Marie) ..................My Secret Adventure

Marie Kindly sent this story in to share. So, I'm sitting in Craft Services, eating this delicious caprese sandwich, staring at the large monitor in front
of me showing that sparkling "V"-shaped stage knowing that in less than
one hour, not only will Super Model Heidi Klum, several of the most gorgeous models in the world and The Black Eyed Peas be appearing on it, but MY balloon creations!.........  How did this happen?!

Just over a week ago, I received a call and was invited to New York City
to create a balloon dress for The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show.  Before I even had my itinerary, they had changed  TWO outfits.  I'm a little fuzzy on the exact details of the conversation because I was so excited, I never even got the name of the person I had been speaking to - I did eventually get it!

The morning after I arrived, I met with the head designers of the show.  OMG, what amazingly talented people!  When I entered the room with the entire product and several of the other pieces from the show, I was so incredibly intimidated.  Rhinestones, crystals and feathers EVERYWHERE!!  There were some of the most gorgeous pieces I'd ever seen in my life.  Sparkle, glitz and glimmer to spare!  Even with the magnificence of all
this work, they were treating me like I was their peer.
I just kept thinking to myself, "But I only make dresses from BALLOONS!" 
To read more about the story(Link)
And for Marie's website just click on the picture;

Marie Dadow
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Graham Lee "The Real Secrets To Making A Good Living As A Childrens Entertainer" Wed 18th November in Birmingham
Have you always thought you could be a childrens entertainer or would you like help in improving your already well established act, then this day could well be just what you've been looking for? Mike Ingham (Micky The Magician) and Graham Lee with all thier years of experience are holding a full days instructional workshop on entertaining children, including all the real secrets about what and how to entertain chidren while having great fun yourself. They will even be explaining and giving away their own acts which have kept them both very busy and in demand for many years. More details about the day can be found here; (Link to More info)
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Balloon & Clown Convention, China. The Millennium Jam
Sofie van Dewyer To read a small blog about the festival that took place in Shanghai and to see more pictures of all the events including the mini gala shows and the truly spectacular balloon fashion show with over thirty balloon dresses being displayed during the week. (Link)
For info on Sofie Vandewyer who helped to co-ordinate the event and made the
dress seen here; (Link)
The Millennium Jam

It's that time of year again when twisters come together for what is the very best balloon convention in the world,
The Millennium Jam 10/12th November with balloon lectures from, Dennis & Ingrid Hogers, Flipo, Sofie Vandewyer, Tom Bibo, Thelma Levett and Graham Lee. More details about the event can be found here;(Link)

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Patricia Bunnell

Patricia Bunnell Lecture,
Wed 4th November
.
Patricia who has three best selling instructional
DVD's out, Country Critters, Twisted Critters Vol 1,
Twisted Critters Vol 2 will be coming over from the USA for her only UK date, doing a full day
hands
on lecture workshop in Birmingham on Wed 4th
November from 10 till 6.oo p.m. The cost for the
day is £55 and will include lunch. Patricia will be
running two sessions throughout the day,
10.3o till 1.oo p.m. and 2.oo till 4.3op.m.

To book and for more information
on the day (Link )

Patricia Bunnell
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Clown and Balloon Festival, China

Graham Lee is off yet again on his world travels, for someone who is not very keen on
flying he seems to be geting around quite a lot lately. He flys off on the 28th September to Shanghai for the international balloon and clown festival (1st-8th Oct) where he will be performing his balloon magic act; (Link to website ) in the balloon fashion shows which will be taking place every evening throughout the week long festival. This is the second
time Graham has ben invited to perform at the festival where 15 of the top european balloon artistes will all be performing, including, Bidou, Willie Monroe, Tom Saeys,
Kokof, Todd Neufeld and Suzanne Haring.
FOR OVER 250 PICTURES FROM THE EVENT AND A LITTLE BLOG. (Link )
Graham Lee
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Dov Citron

Dov, Flying High
One of our balloon chat members, Dov Citron
(Link to website)
aka Captain Calamity is certainly having a very good month. It started off for him getting a call to entertain at Rocco and David's party, these are Madonna and Guy Ritchie's children and then as if that wasn't enough he got the call to go and entertain at number 11 Downing Street to help publicise the seventh anniversary of the Children's
trust fund. All the events have gone really well and Dov is very
much looking forward to entertaining more stars in the future.

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Friends of David, A Tribute DVD Diamond Jam 2009
Friends of Davis DVD The friends of David DVD was in stock for a very short time but sold
out within 24 hours, we will try to
get the dvd back in stock ASAP.
The DVD is a collection from eleven top international balloon artistes who have got together to celebrate the life
of one of the world's top twisters. Colin Myles, Rie Hosokai, Ralph Dewey, Don Caldwell, Bidou, Ed Chee, Marvin Hardy Alberto Falcone, Larrt Moss, Ken Stillman and Royal Sorell. All monies raised from the
sale of this DVD will go to the Grist family. (Link to DVD)
Sofie and Rie
Graham Lee is just back from his
travels over the pond to America.
To read an extensive write up on diamond jam 2009 and to find out
what went wrong this time with his flight adventures etc.
(Link to write up)
Pictured left are the winning dresses from the balloon fashion show which were designed by Sofie Vandewyer
and Rie Hosokai.For the first time
ever there were joint winners from a really great line up of some stunning dresses. For more reviews with over
150 pictures just click on the link above.
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David Grist David Grist DVD Sale
Starting from the 1st Sept for a limited period only we will be offering a 10% reduction on all of David's DVD's. From Vol 1 through to 9 and the full complete set as well. A single copy will be £18 with the full set at an anazing low price of only £135. This is a fantastic balloon modelling set that takes you right from the basic beginings up to David's award winning weaving techniques with the big sculptures, a must for every balloon artiste to have in their collection.
All money raised from the sale of these DVD's will go to David's family. (Link to DVD's)
The David Grist Memorial Lecture 2010
Once again we will be inviting over from the USA one of the world's leading balloon artistes
to run the hands on lecture/workshop early in the new year.
(Link to lecture)

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Danny at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival
"Circo Ridiculoso" and Pleasance present "Lighter than air" at this year's Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Come and see live wild balloon taming at,
The Pleasance Above, Venue 33, 5th - 30th August
(not 17 or 24)
Danny has been touring around the country all year to get the show at
the peak of its performance.
So before Danny goes international and hits the big time.
Come and see the show! Book tickets on 0131 556 6550.
Enter the strange and bizarre universe of a wild balloon tamer where
surreal and stupid things happen. Combining circus and comedy,
performer and clown Danny Schlesinger creates an utterly joyous
experience loaded with surprises and laughs. Warning! Features loud
balloon pops. For everyone over the age of four.

Circo Ridiculoso and Pleasance present
LIGHTER THAN AIR at Pleasance Above, venue 33,
Edinburgh Fringe Festival
5-30th August (not 17 & 24th)
BOX OFFICE: 0131 5566550
Danny Schlesinger
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Thelma Levett Levett and Lee On The Road
Thelma Levett and Graham Lee completed a photo shoot on the 28th July for Esquire magazine (Link to magazine) at the Hoxton Street Studios. After getting the story board and with only a few days working on the ideas it was time to see if they had interpreted the thoughts of the magazine and photographer. The day was a great success with everyone at the shoot appreciating our wonderful balloon art form. The October publication will be out and in the shops on Sept 14th with a
nine page spread related to fashion using balloon art.
For more pictures and to see why the skeleton was made
in two contrasting colours. (Link to the forum).
Esquire Magazine
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Danny's Amazing Balloon Show, "Lighter Than Air"
Danny The Idiot

Enter the strange and bizarre universe of a wild balloon tamer where serreal and stupid things happen. Combining circus and comedy, performer and clown Danny Schlesinger creates an utterly joyous experience loaded with participation, surprises
and laughs.

(Link to Danny's website)

Danny The Idiot
“How anyone can be that funny with a few balloons and few words I'll never know, but he is. 
This is just one of those shows you should borrow a child to come and see with. 
I'd be hard pressed to say which of you will enjoy it more!”  
Pam Hardiman, Deputy Director, Gulbenkian Theatre.
Come and see Danny's fantastic show next at:
Saturday 27th June at the Burton Taylor Studio, Oxford Playhouse, Shows at 11am and 2pm
Saturday 11th July Bradon Forest School, Purton, Wiltshire - Show at 6pm
Sunday 19th July at the Pleasance, Islington London, shows at 11am and 2pm


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Sabina Kellner, Loop Technique The "Levett and Lee" Roadshow
About the technique, Loop weaving is
a strong technique with an interesting structure, imitating scales, leaves or feathers. Balloon artistes who like 160's as much as Sabina does will love to play around with this loop weaving idea.

Contents of the book
,

The booklet has step-by-step instructions and helpful tips on how to make,
1, loop weaving in a line.
2, loop weaving in a circle.
3, flat loop weaving.
As well as selected balloon figures for each technique, snake, heart, flower, vase and an elaborate parrot and mermaid.
(The instructions assume you have basic twisting skills)
(
Link for more details and to order)
Sabina Kellner Thelma Levett and Graham Lee
who are two of the Uk's most experienced balloon twisters are giving away all the hints, tips and tricks of the trade.
Birmingham, Wed 22nd July
Banstead, Wed 21st October
Leeds, Wed 25th November.
The idea of the days is to give everyone the basic knowledge to get a good understanding of what makes the balloon industry such a unique and fun place to work in. Everything will be covered during this full day hands on lecture/workshop from the basic animals, one balloon wonders, hats and quick, easy and Impressive models. The day will include full details of all the balloon twisting terminology from ear twists to apple twist and side wall bubble to an art twist and what they are used for and what can be made from all of these twists. This is a fun day not to be missed and will benefit even the more experienced twister. More details; (Link)

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The Millennium Jam Nov 10/12th.  
The brand new millennium jam website will be going live later today with all the
details for this 10th anniversary edition. This is the one convention not to be missed.
The plans and format for this year are slightly different than usual due to the
economic climate but no doubt it will still be an excellent balloon convention run by
Leo and Johan from IBS Balloons, with no doubt Tim running around like a headless
chicken doing all the work as normal!!
(Link to TMJ website)
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Graham Lee DVD 3 "A Romantic Twist"
Graham Lee Graham has just released his third DVD, "A romantic Twist" which has all the techniques and helpful tips on how to make the origami rose which won Graham first prize in the one balloon competition at "The Millennium Jam 2007" and the title, European balloon entertainer of the year. It also has all the details for the heart, mirror in a heart and the balloon flowers and roses under the dome and in a balloon. This really is the good stuff with filming face on and over the shoulder to help with the explanations and making it clearer and easier for you to follow along too. There is also a bonus section with details on how to make the heart out of 6" link o loon balloons and a special guest appearance by Miss Thelma Levett who shows you how to make a beautiful flower from three heart shaped balloons. (Link to more details)
Editing on the DVD was done by Geoff Evans who has done an excellent job and is highly recommended, 01293-400359.
Graham Lee

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Don Caldwell. America's Number one twister, UK tour dates.
Don Caldwell Don Caldwell and Thelma Levett Don Caldwell
The great news is that Don Caldwell is confirmed and will be coming over to the UK for two dates, Friday 29th May in Banstead, Surrey and Wednesday 3rd June in Birmingham. The Banstead day will be focusing on Don's performance Lecture "The Buster Balloon Show Live!" This is the real deal, nothing held back. Don Caldwell takes you into the world of his famous alter-ego, Buster Balloon. You will see Don's
45 minute family show in it's entirety, then strip it down beat by beat in a Q&A session to discover what makes a successful balloon show tick. After lunch the fun continues with Don teaching several of his other favorite original balloon gags, tricks, and routines that are not currently in his show. Having seen the workshop at twist & shout in February this is definately one not too miss.
Then it's on to Birmingham for; "The David Grist Memorial Lecture" (More Info)
What Don will be including in this full day hands on lecture/workshop........... "The Best of Mad Hatz & Wild Wearables"
The workshop will feature Don's favorite, and most popular wearable creations. From the stupidly simple, to huge show stoppers,
these are the pieces that Don uses in his every day work and the pieces that he counts on to always deliver. You will also learn
Don's secret presentation tips for getting even more impact out of your sculptures. And yes, there will be a few sculptures that
Don has not released before. More details on the days and to book;
(Link to Don Caldwell)

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Thelma, Bonnie and Petra are kept busy with new CD's
Petra Meijboom Thelma, Bonnie and Petra have all brought out new instructional CD discs in the last few weeks. Thelma's, "A little bit more" is a follow on to her other excellent CD's with some slightly more advanced models being shown with the eagle, doll and tigger being probably my favourite on the disc and the flat heart is definitely very usable. Bonnie kindly sent over her class notes from the G.O.T mini convention that she attended the other week as the star lecturer. The cheetah is worth the price of the CD alone, this is my favourite on the disc but there are plenty of others to keep you interested, especially the lion. Petra's first CD "Heartfigures" has a selection of twelve models which all incorporate the use of a heart balloon. The elephant, ballerina/mermaid are very nice with the chicken being cute. All three discs are well presented and laid out with very easy to follow instructions. To contact Bonnie just send her a PM through the forum and to purchase either of Thelma or Petra's CD's just click on the link (Link to buy)
Thelma Levett

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Diamond Jam 2009, Las Vegas 13/15th August
Debbie Stevens


Diamond Jam "Celebrating The Art Of Twisting"
Is back in Las Vegas for the second year since Dave Scott took over the running of this event from Ed Chee and moved it from Phoenix. There is an abundance of quality balloon artistes attending to teach, including; Ken Stillman, Colin Myles, Stretch, Patrick van de Ven, Patricia Bunnell, Ed Chee, Bidou,
Robbie Furman, Ralph Dewey. It's like a who's who from the balloon world for this three day twisting event taking place on the 13/15th August. Then on Sunday 16th it's the balloon dress fashion show, some of last years entries are, on the left a dress made by Debbie Stevens and Colin Myles entry on the right. This is then followed by "summer balloon camp" for
the balloon decorators from the 16/18th Aug. Diamond Jam certainly
has something for everyone. More details on the events, classes and registration can be found on the official website;(Link to Diamond Jam)

Colin Myles

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Kidology, Children's magic convention. 8th September 2009
A really good day out is the only UK children's magic convention which is being held on Tuesday 8th Sept at
the civic and wulfrun halls in Wolverhampton. The convention is planned for mid-week so that the professional entertainers can attend
and is run by Jeremy and Cheryl from Practical Magic (practical magicLink) and Alex Powell from Albion Magic (practical magicLink)
Kidology
There are fifteen dealers from across the country attending and four lectures planned; Michael Fitch, Kid's Cabaret.
Derek Lever, Children's magic
props through the ages
Ali Cadabra (pictured left)
Walkaround magic for children and
Michael Diamond, Halloween magic.
For more details and to book;
(
Link to Kidology)

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G.O.T Balloons

G.O.T Mini Balloon Convention 2009

Stretch Clendennen
is organising the gathering of twisters convention that will be taking place at the, All American Balloons, Arlington, Texas on the 30th/31st March this year with 10 classes on offer, including Decor, twisting, facpainting and deco/twisting. Bonnie Davis (Bonnie DavisLink to portfolio) one of our balloon chat members is the star attraction for the convention and will be teaching two
classes that have been especially prepared for the convention. Others that will be teaching are, Stretch, Linda Berman, Diane Gauthier and Sharon Hodges.
For more details about the event and booking details, (G.O.T.Balloon ConventionLink to convention)

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Happy Birthday Balloon Chat, 1st Anniversary 15th March

We're having some competitions to celebrate the forum, www.balloonchat.co.uk being one year old today.
There are two competitions, with one of them to encourage all those members that are still to post
for the first time onto the site. For more details and to see the prizes on offer;
(Happy Birthday CompetitionLink to competition)

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The Millennium Jam 2009
Has been confirmed this year for the 10/12th November and will be taking place at the sun parks resort in Belgium. This is just the best balloon convention in the world with the fashion show, Iron latex man competition and the ultimate prize to go for being the coveted title of "European Balloon Entertainer of the Year"
More details about this fabulous event can be found on the forum here; (Link to forum details)
Balloon tutorial section

The balloon tutorial section has been up and running for a few weeks now with six basic instructions. There are also 16 line drawing explanations for some of the more popular twists etc associated within the balloon community to help you along the way. The balloon tutorial button which has just been put up onto the site was made by a great web designer,
Stuart Catterson. I really love the wagging tail on the dog, it made me smile! So if anyone needs any web designing or graphic art work, please get in touch with Stuart as he really is a very talented artiste.
(Link to Stuart's website)

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"The Real Secrets To Making A Good Living As A Childrens Entertainer"
Have you always thought you could be a childrens entertainer or do you just
want help in improving your already well established act, then this day could
well be just what you've been looking for?
Mike Ingham (Micky The Magician) and Graham Lee with all thier years of experience are holding a full days instructional workshop on entertaining children, including all the real secrets about what and how to entertain chidren while having great fun yourself.
They will even be explaining and giving away their own acts which have kept them both very busy and in demand for many years. More details about the
day can be found here;
(Link to More info)(Link to booking info)

 

Graham Lee

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Thelma Levett, New CD. Nice and Easy
The long awaited sequel to Thelma's first and very successful CD was released last weekend at the Blackpool
magic convention to great acclaim. On the new CD are detailed and very easy to follow instructions for some
really great designs, including the Penguin which is now a true classic in the balloon modelling world.
Also explained are; Dove, Cow, Snail, Butterflies, Bald Eagle, Owl, Lion/Tiger, Frog in a rowing boat, Tweety Birds.

For more details about the CD;
(Link to more info on Thelma's CD)

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Twist and Shout, Los Angeles 2009
Graham Lee Super Mario Robbie Firman Mark Verge


What an experience, what a ride but more importantly what a journey!!!! To find out more about the twist and shout balloon convention that was held in Los Angeles in Feb with all the details on who won what etc and Graham's thoughts and write up about the convention
then just click on the balloon link; (Link)

Jack Mattson
With over 100 pictures to view from the convention starting on page four of the thread and the beginning of the write up from page eight. Next year's event will be taking place in Chicago with confirmed dates of 17th/21st Feb. All details for the convention will be found on the website once it has been updated; (Link)
Colin Myles Lollypop Satomi Kinoshita Bidou

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Comic Relief 2009
Comic Relief 2009

Graham Lee was asked back in September 2008 to spend a day at the Skins photographic Studio in Kensington on Friday 3rd October for the offical shoot to promote comic relief for 2009. The day turned out to be such a success that it was decided to
add another day at the Lettice Studios on Wed 29th Oct in Parsons Green.
The theme for this day being "Bands"

Graham said both days were great to
do and everyone made him feel so welcome and it was a lot of fun seeing how the day was put together. The
29th Jan 2009 is the offical launch
day, so it just goes to show that Graham can keep a secret as he's known about this for over four months. More pictures from the shoot can be seen here; (Link)
Comic Relief 2009 Comic Relief 2009 Comic Relief 2009

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Lighter Than Air, by circo ridiculoso

This is another chance to see Danny on tour with his brilliant balloon mime show which is suitable for the whole family. Danny is an eccentric performer of physical comedy. Not only is he an expert in eccentricity, he is also a visual poet, a certified fool,
a multi-talented modern vauderville artist and a wild rubber tamer but on top of all this he is a very nice guy too!
The show is a must see so don't forget to put the dates in your diary. (Link to details). Danny the Idiot.
"A master of his own particular brand of tomfoolery" The Stage Newspaper

Danny The Idiot

7th February - Norden Farm, Maidenhead, Berkshire - Shows at 11am & 3pm
8th February - South Street, Reading, Berkshire - Shows at 11.30am & 2pm
14th February - The Old Town Hall, Hemel Hempstead - Show at 2pm, followed by balloon workshop
15th February - Watermans Arts Centre, Brentford, Middlesex - Show at 3pm

7th March - The Clocktower, Croydon, Surrey - Show at 2.30pm
21st March - Nuffield Theatre, Southampton, Hampshire - Show at 1pm
22nd March - New Theatre Royal, Portsmouth, Hampshire - Show at 2pm
28th March - The Studio, Broadway Theatre, Catford, London - Show at 11.30am
29th March - Arts Depot, Finchley, North London - Shows at 12pm & 3pm

8th April,The Arts Centre, Darlington, County Durham Show at 2.30pm, followwed by balloon workshop
9th April,Lamplight Arts Centre, Stanley, County Durham Show time TBC, followed by balloon workshop
10th April - The Maltings, Berwick-on-Tweed, Northumberland - Shows at 12pm & 3pm
11th April - The Rosehill Theatre, Whitehaven, Cumbria Show time TBC, followed by balloon workshop
12th April - Town Hall, Selby, North Yorkshire - Show time TBC
14th April - Brindley Arts Centre, Runcorn, Cheshire - Shows at 11am & 2pm
16th April - The Puppet Theatre, Norwich, Norfolk - Show at 2.30pm
17th April - New Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk - Shows at 11am & 2pm
19th April - The Arts Centre, Salisbury, Wiltshire - Show at 11am, followed by balloon modelling


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Britains Got Talent
Coming back for yet another series and forum member Dennis Dillinger will be designing
a mini me balloon fairy for Pat who is a comedian/poet and will be enterring the competition this year as a fairy. The planned auditions for Newcastle last wek have been moved up to Edinburgh so keep your eyes glued to see if Dennis gets some air time later on in the year.
Pictured with the said sculpture is Dennis's young grand-daughter Tegan.
(Link to website).Dennis Dillinger
Mr Balloonz

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Danny Joins The Balloon Chat Team

Danny The Idiot Although it's a small team at the moment, well it's just doubled with Danny coming on board and next year's christmas office party will be so much better. I'm pleased to say that Danny has agreed to join the balloon chat team and be another pair of hands and eyes on the admin side of the forum, with his youthful boyish enthusiasm I'm sure he will be a great help and asset in the day to day running of the site, so big hugs and a warm welcome Danny.

"I'm honoured that Graham has asked me to help him with Balloon Chat. I have no idea what
it entails. But I look forward to helping this brilliant resource for balloon twisters grow.
I come from a performing background and have always done simple balloons. In 2006 I went
to TMJ and saw that really anything is possible to make out of balloons. And since then I have been striving to improve my balloon art. The balloon community is great - It always helps knowing your not the only one with a difficulty, knowing where to turn to and who could help with your balloon related dilema. I also find I learn so much, new figures, ways of doing and thinking about things. So I am happy to help Graham out. Keep Chatting!
Really looking forward to seeing a few of you at the first performance workshop of the year
in Leeds on the 25th March that I will be running" (Link to details). Danny the Idiot.

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Advertising Pages

The advertising pages have been added to the forum,
this is your chance to get some free advertising through the balloon chat forum. The plan is to eventually make a small charge in the future for this service to help pay for
the maintenance and running costs of the forum but everyone will be given plenty of notice about this. If you click through from the "Find a Twister" logo you will see
all the different areas covered and you can advertise in
as many as you wish. If you would like to take advantage of this offer then details can be found here;
(Link to forum)
We are hoping to extend the advertising shortly to
include Europe and the USA. so that all members on
the Balloon chat forum can make use of this service.

Find a local balloon twister/entertainer

Performance Workshops
The first of the two performance workshops planned for 2009 will be taking place in Leeds on Wed 25th March.
Danny Schlesinger,(
circoridiculoso)
will be runing the two one hour group sessions on performance and performing with balloons within a Care & Share day. Competitions and a balloon lecture will
also make this a definate fun filled day
not to be missed while honing in your performance skills to help make you a better all round entertainer.The cost for
the day is only £10.oo, to find out more details about the day; (
Link to forum).

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Thelma Levett,
Joins the Sempertex bandwagon

I’m absolutely pleased, delighted, chuffed and honoured to tell
you all that Thelma, that little pocket dynamo who is one of the best kept secrets in the balloon modelling world has decided to come on board and help promote the Sempertex balloon brand around the UK.
Helping out more at the “Care and Share” days and working
the big magic conventions with her expertise, creativity and enthusiasm she's bound to be a great hit and asset to all of us.
Thelma who wears her heart on her sleeve and  is most
definitely one of the top balloon modelling artistes in the UK,
if not the world. Thelma has incredible enthusiasm for our
balloon art and her mind never switches off from creating her balloon masterpieces. Her creativity just seems to be so endless with new models, designs and techniques being thought up daily and to top it all she is also just a lovely lady and so much fun to
be around.
Thelma is so modest about her talents, but I finally got her to
write a little intro into her life in latex, with a bit of arm twisting.

Thelma Levett
Thelma's Story,
“I must be one of the longest serving, totally hooked balloon twisters with the least things to say about myself with regards to milestones. Just plodded along in my small world and thoroughly enjoyed thinking up new ways to play and new ways to create with balloons. I picked up my first bag of balloons in 1994, goodness 14 years ago!! How time flies, I was introduced to balloons by an entertainer called Terry Box. He was running a disco at a party where I was face painting and kindly suggested that I could expand my repertoire by offering balloon modelling. I purchased a book on basic models and a bag of balloons and ploughed through it in a couple of days. The best way to describe the experience is to say I found my thing. It was love at first twist and felt like I was made to do balloons but just didn’t know it till I bought that first bag. Within a couple of days I had done everything in the book and was feeling the need to do something more interesting. Within a week I had started designing my own balloons. 14 years later I am still constantly designing. It is an addiction. One of the very first models I designed was the penguin you see all over the place. Due to my financial circumstances, I did not buy any books or any other educational materials. I did not know any other balloon artists; all the people I met were only interested in making the basic dogs and swords. This was frustrating and I could not understand how anyone could have a material with such potential and not want to improve. It was not that I didn’t want to be influenced by any outside source but I think it was very good for me to have no pointers. It made me think and develop and I found my own style. Sometimes one misses the obvious though when twisting on your own and that is the beauty of getting together at a “Care and Share” day or balloon convention, a luxury I didn't have till 2001. I went to the Blackpool Magic Convention a couple of times and made models there when selling a book I had published but apart from that and a couple of balloon lectures for some magic societies I spent 6 years twisting in isolation more or less. By 2001 I was able to travel to the Millennium Jam where I experienced a total mind blast. I normally shy away from competitions and when pushed to do them I feel like the smallest person in the room. (Yes I know!!! I probably am the smallest person in the room but I feel even smaller in competition mode) Leo bullied/cajoled me into entering a competition for the first time and I came third. I personally wasn’t happy with the design but it got me my first trophy ever, which was nice.
My business is a success with a constant flow of work coming in and an extremely good reputation. I take great pride in doing a first class job every time and treating each booking as the special event that it is for the people who have booked me. I do face painting, music, games and magic shows as well as the balloons and it is for the whole party I am known and not just the balloons. But the balloon art is my joy.
I don't have a string of awards to tell you about, I just plod on in the background not making a lot of noise about myself and not getting noticed but I do so love designing and giving myself those little challenges. I saw Terry at an event I attended recently and he took great delight in telling everyone that he got me started and taught me everything I know, I just smiled. Well I wonder if I would be doing balloons if it were not for him. Lately I have not been so obviously active because I have been doing a lot of writing up and getting my gallery ready for the web site. And producing my very first CD publication “Two and a bit” with loads more designs being put onto CD and possibly a DVD as well in the near future.
In fact I just finished sorting out all the photos for the gallery on my new website, which hopefully will be launched in the very near future. Now I have to decide on the look of the main page and get the layout cleaned up. When the website is up and running I’ll announce it here on balloon chat"

  Thelma Levett Thelma Levett

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Krazy Kev, TV Appearance on Sky One.

Krazy Kev who is a balloon chat member will be appearing several times on Sky one TV over the festive period, 6.oo pm Christmas eve & repeated at 4.oo pm Christmas day in “Noel’s Christmas Presents” which was filmed on 23rd November
in the North East.
Part of the show was in aid of the flood victims & community of Morpeth who were devastated by the flooding over the
past couple of years. Filming took place at the New Life Centre in Morpeth and was all kept hush hush from the residents,
it was only on the day of filming that people realised something was happening.  
Among the guests were Noel Edmonds, Zoë Salmon a blue peter presenter, Sooty and Sweep and not forgetting the ever smiling Same Difference from last years X factor, who Kev says are just lovely people. He has met them before and they don't change - always smiling.
Kev was kept very busy all day making balloons for everyone that attended the day & rubbing shoulders and making some balloons for the celebrities as well. The five foot high Santa was the hit of the day pictured below with Noel Edmonds.

More details about Krazy Kev can be found on his all new and re-vamped website; (Krazy Kev)
A quote from Kev;
”it was a fab day and I would love the chance to do it all again as it was for such a good cause and brought lots of smiles
to a community that was devastated by the flood water in recent times.”

krazy kevkrazy kevkrazy kev

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Twist & Shout Balloon Convention
5th to 8th Feb 2009
twist & shout

Another great balloon twisting convention to look forward to in the new year.
The venue is sunny Southern California in the USA, at the sheraton Cerritos Hotel in the beautifully landscaped town centre.
Top names from across the world will all be merging on Southern California to take part and compete in one of the worlds main balloon conventions, there are three twisting competitions to enter as well as the stage entertainer of the year. The convention will certainly have something for everyone, those already booked to lecture are, Park Hyun-Gu (Beating), Debbie Stevens, Zanie Janie Driscoll, Ralph Dewey, Billy Damon and Suzanne Haring so definately something for everyone. There are also on the Sunday private classes that you can attend.
Click on the balloon for more details (balloon convention)

twistandshoutdef
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Balloon Chat at the MILLENNIUM JAM, 2/6th NOVEMBER 2008

Leo and Johan from IBS balloons link (ibs-balloons) started to put this event on in 2000 at the Sunparks holiday resort in Mol, Belgium, hence the name “The Millennium Jam” and in the nine years it has grown from around a 100 people at that very first event into the worlds most prestigious balloon modelling convention in the world attracting over 300 people from all over the world, from 23 different countries for this years convention.

The awards are looked upon in the balloon industry as the pinnacle of out art form in balloon twisting and performance.
  “What a week ... this was absolutely fantastic." Tony Twist
“I feel overwhelmed with what I have just experienced, very special”
Richard Masters
“Personally I can't afford not to go. I have been once before and it completely inspired me.”
Danny Schlesinger


Fashion Show winner, Sophie Vandewyer and Koen


One Balloon Model, Pieter van Engen


Multi Balloon Sculpture, Patrick van de Ven



Stage Show, Manon Dudziak

 


My thoughts on TMJ done from memory, will have a look through my note book when I get time to see what else I may have missed off;
To start off it was absolutely excellent and as I always say, a life changing experience.
For those that don't know I took an organised trip with nine people going over on Eurostar with two more meeting us there.
So if you'd like to join us next year for the best balloon convention in the world, as they say stay tuned...
The industry award evening was very good with some excellent balloon acts and a very nice buffet.
Tom with some help from Rafael were the compeers for the evening and what an excellent job they both done. The audience seemed to warm to them straight away in a difficult setting for the acts.
The show was excellent with everyone around me seeming to have a great time laughing and joining in, and we were sitting at the back.

So what did I see?
From memory and no particular order;


Dave Bartlett
No balloons but absolute golden nuggets of information for the working pro. For me probably the best lecture for information that I've sat through.

Tomate
Some very good information on trying to find your character on stage and how to develop it. Some good advice for those just starting out on this road.

Addi Somekh
What a great class, full of energy. Addi's so loud even without a microphone, hats and wings is what was talked about and I know from others reactions that this class was great fun, enjoyable with a lot of very good information passed on.

 

Don Caldwell
The lecture on magic and balloons being very informative with lot's of very good and usable ideas.
Don seemed so much more comfortable in this class which was later on in the week compared to his wrist friend lecture earlier in the week, perhaps he got to know a few people or maybe he's at his best when performing which is what he did in this lecture.
This lecture and Dave Bartlett's were my favourite from this year's list.

Sean Rooney
Sean is a real talent and I watched just one of his classes, getting a bubble in a balloon but just so that others that sat in the class know that I was listening, it perhaps should have been called according to Sean as getting a balloon around a bubble.
Sean is very informative and a few of us during the week spent a nice time with him having a coffee and discussing balloon related ideas, this was another highlight of the week for me.

Fashion Show
The fashion show was amazing, I don't think any words could do it justice; you just had to be there (Full Stop)
Tom and Rafael again done a great job compeering, Tom did make perhaps some border line remarks which did get an intake of breath from the audience and I too was fortunate??? To get a mention here as well.

The Thursday Night Gala Show
There was no stage competition this year and I think two acts competed within this gala show for stage performer of the year.
Manon won the title this year with an act that would take quite a while to set and build but she has wonderful mime skills and is a joy to watch, 75% of the act was new to me and as she told me, it's "very crazy"

For more details and pictures about this event checkout; link (Links to forum)

More details about the millennium jam can be found on there site, Click the link balloon to vist link (millenniumjam)

We're having a party”


To celebrate the fact that Sempertex Balloons have
been sponsoring Graham Lee's “Care and Share”
balloon fundays we've decided to hold a party. All
are welcome and it's free. There are limited spaces
so please book online ASAP. Click the link balloon
for more details;

link (Sempertexballoons.co.uk)

Due to a technical issue on the site we have to
charge you 10p to book but this will be refunded on
the day. Tuesday 25 th November in Halesowen
Birmingham.

 

The day will run similar to a care and share day 10 till 6 but the whole day is mapped out with two mystery lecturers, a session on bit's of business with balloons and two competitions, the one balloon model and making a hat.

We will also be selling raffle tickets to promote Graeme Ash (BillyWiz) and his “Make A Smile” appeal, click the link balloon for more details;
link
(billywiz.biz/smile)

Graeme goes over to Belarus every year to the orphanages and cancer hospitals, this really is a great cause so please try and give so that Graeme can carry on with his “Make a smile” trips.
The plan of action for the day so far is, although those that know me will understand that sometimes things don't quite run to plan but I will try my best for the party………..honest

 

So the plan of action at the moment for the day is;

11..oo till 12.oo Mystery lecturer one

12 .3o till 1.oo One balloon competition

1.oo till 2.oo Get yourself some lunch
If anyone would like to bring some food along could you get in touch so that we get a nice even spread of everything for a party.
Lyn is making a couple of cakes.

2.oo til 2.3o Balloon "bits of business"

2.3o til 3.3o Mystery lecturer two

4.oo til 4.3o Hat competition

4.30 til 5.oo Raffle winners and Award ceremony for winners of the competitions

Don't forget that after we go out for a meal, all are welcome.

We're having a party celebrating three years of sponsorship by Sempertex Balloons,
for more details about the day & the full venue address.(Party Link))

NATIONAL
BALLOON WEEK

10 to 16 NOVEMBER 2008


The 12th “National Balloon Week”
is taking place from 10th – 16th November 2008. NABAS The Balloon Association Ltd
and its members will be championing the balloon and party industry by organising national and local
events that highlight the versatility of applications and market opportunities that balloons can offer. Competitions, Balloon Releases and Special events all form part of the week's festivities, which are being organised by the Members of the Association around the country. The events will culminate on Sunday 16th November with the NABAS “Festival of Balloon Art” at the NAC in Stoneleigh Park near Coventry – tickets and further information for this event can be acquired from the NABAS office. link (NABAS)
MILLENNIUM JAM
2 to 6 NOVEMBER 2008


This is the best balloon twisting convention in the world, now there's something for it to live upto this year.
I have been organising the trip to the convention for the last few years & will be doing so again this year. So for those wishing to come with us we go for a week travelling out on Friday Oct 31st & returning on Friday 7th Nov.
I have one spare ticket still available due to a cancellation.
Eurostar is booked from St Pancras for 14.34 on the outward journey and 14.59 back to London the following week.
The cost will include Eurostar from St Pancras to Brussels, a taxi to the venue, registration & shared accommodation in a self catering bungalow.
If you wish a room to yourself in the bungalow the additional cost is approx £60 or you can have a single room in the hotel for approx £195 extra.
The cost this year will be £325 with the eurostar cost paid to me & the rest of the money paid to Leo on arrival at the centre.
Deadline day was 1st Aug so anyone wishing to join us now is more than welcome but you will need to book eurostar yourself for the same train as the group are on both ways, please be aware that the eurostar cost jumps considerably.
 

Fan dress
by Colin Myles
.

To visit Colin's site click the link balloon.
link

We normally help decorate the lobby of the venue on the Saturday & the convention starts on the Sunday. This year for the first time there
will be a special industry dinner on the Saturday which at the moment is being advertised for approx £28.oo which will be an added extra if you wish to attend but I'm sure I can do a deal on this
More details about the convention & who will be lecturing etc can be found by clicking the blue link balloon. link
millenniumjam.com)
Graham Lee

Circo Ridiculoso presents Lighter than Air
 

Enter the strange and rather bizarre universe of a wild balloon tamer, where surreal and stupid things happen. Seamlessly combining circus, physical theatre and silent comedy, first-class performer and consummate clown, Danny Schlesinger, creates an utterly joyous experience loaded with participation, surprises and laughs.  

"Hilarious and poignant physical comedy" Time Out

"A master of his own particular brand of tomfoolery" The Stage

"Moving, beautiful and very funny"   Barney Jeavons, West End Centre, Aldershot

"Charming poetic, and skilful as it is silly, both full of heart and absolutely hilarious."
Amanda Huotari, Celebration Barn Theater, Maine, USA

 
Lighter than Air is for family audiences aged 4+. It is highly visual, original, gentle, yet anarchic clowning and is suitable for the deaf, hearing impaired and non-English speakers, fans of comedy and circus, physical theatre, clown, balloons, and musical saw, and families.
Running time: approx 55 minutes.

Where can you see this show?
Autumn 2008:
October 12th - The Albany Deptford, 3pm
Box Office 020 8692 0231 www.thealbany.org.uk
October 25th - The Egg, Bath, 11.30am and 3pm
Box Office 01225 823409 www.theatreroyal.org.uk/the-egg
November 9th - Jackson's Lane, Highgate
3pm
Box Office 020 8341 4421 www.jacksonlane.org.uk

  November 16th - Stratford Circus, East London, 12pm show & walkabout
Box office 020 8279 1015 www.stratford-circus.com < http://www.stratford-circus.com/ >
November 23rd - Blue Elephant Theatre, Camberwell, London 3pm show & balloon workshop
Box Office 020 7701 0100 www.blueelephanttheatre.co.uk

If you can't make it to these shows, please have a look at the online video clip of the show:  link (youtube clip)
Website:  www.CircoRidiculoso.com link

Martin wins a DVD in Balloon
Chat's first competition.
  Wally Boag, Balloon Entertainer at Disney 1955/1986
Patricia Bunnell who was our “Star Interview” 18/24 th Aug - link(interview link) kindly donated one of her DVD's as a prize to Balloon Chat members.
BC asked members to make a sculpture of any one of Patricia's hat designs & put a body onto it. All entries went into a hat & the lucky winner drawn out was Martin.

Members of BC would recognise Martin by his avatar on the forum. (right}


Wally entertained at Disney for over 30 years performing his balloon act 5 times a day with over 40,000 shows on the golden horseshoe stage.More details about Wally's life can be found here - link (thegoldenhorseshoereview)
Over 300 people show up for a reunion for a show that Wally starred in & that finished over 22 years ago, for a review - link (jimhillmedia)
Although Wally is now into his 90's
he will be the guest of honour next Feb at Twist & Shout, the balloon convention in America. More details about this event can be found at;
link (balloonconvention)
A classic youtube clips of Wally
-link
(youtube)

Come along & join in the fun at the next care & share days

Exeter, Wed 17th Sept
Northampton, Wed 22nd Oct

Both days are 10 till 6 with Graham Lee doing 2 lectures, basic in the morning and cartoon figures in the afternoon, Mickey, Tweety, Tigger.

Also more than happy during the day so show some basic weaving.
We also have booked for the Exeter day as the mystery lecturer Caroline, Bubbles the clown (pictured right) link (bubblztheclown) & at the Northampton day;
Thelma Levett
(pictured left) link (Balloonjam) is the mystery instructor.
To book online Click the link balloon - link(sempertexballoons)
The cost for the days is £15 pre-booked or £25 on the day. The price includes a £15 voucher to spend on balloons at the day so if you pre-book it's like a free day.


Back in stock...
 

We have all of David Grist's DVD's back in stock on the sempertexballoons website - link
All money raised goes to David's family; details are on the website with full descriptions of what is on each DVD.

 

Small two way pumps are also back in stock.  
     
  We have a few bags of fashion assorted 6" hearts with some lovely colours available.

Balloon Chat will be having a stand at Kidology,

the children's magic convention in Wolverhampton on Tuesday 9th Sept.More details; link (Practical Magic)
This is always a good day with lot's going on.

 

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