Deprecated: array_key_exists(): Using array_key_exists() on objects is deprecated. Use isset() or property_exists() instead in /hermes/walnacweb05/walnacweb05ac/b2621/pow.marcusagar/htdocs/system/classes/Kohana/Arr.php on line 104  Marcus Agar

Remarkable year for Serbian acto

December 14, 2016 Posted in Clients, News, Latest

International awards, red-carpet premieres and mounting recognition. 

Growing acclaim signals future success.

SLAVEN DOŠLO

Remarkable year for young Serbian actor

 

Widespread acclaim, international awards and mounting interest from beyond his homeland have crowned a remarkable year for popular and applauded Serbian actor SLAVEN DOŠLO.

 

In 2016 Slaven claimed his place as a star of European cinema, acclaimed for highly praised roles in Pored Mene/Next to Me (2015), Panama (2015) and Vlažnost/Humidity (2016).

 

He topped the year with an Angela Award from Ireland’s Subtitle European Film Festival for his outstanding performance as a schoolboy enjoying Serbian cinema’s first gay screen kiss in director Stevan Filipović’s box office smash Next to Me.

 

Slaven Došlo:

“My first international acting award encourages me to do even better work in 2017. Serbia will always be my home, but there’s a whole world out there and I want to deliver roles that appeal to English-speaking audiences.

“The overwhelming level of attention can be nerve-wracking, but everyone has been so supportive of my work, at home and abroad. I couldn’t not be excited. My films have all received international awards and good reviews, which is almost unheard of for Serbian cinema. I feel very fortunate and hopeful for 2017.”

 

2016 started with Slaven’s next project Vlažnost/Humidity (dir. Nikola Ljuca) named Best Film at the Belgrade International Film Festival, after premiering at the Berlin International Film Festival, where Slaven was invited as a young talent of European cinema.

 

In the summer Slaven toured film festivals in United States and Europe, as Next to Me attracted international interest and awards, including Best Film at the Pula International Film Festival and the Young Audience Award in Sarajevo.

 

Slaven Došlo:

“I am so grateful to director Stevan Filipovic for giving me the opportunity to play a role that has had such impact in Serbia and is bringing me success with international audiences who really love the movie.

“When Stevan asked me to play a gay character I had doubts about the role. That shocked me, as I consider myself easy going. But that’s what happens when you are surrounded by prejudices your whole life. I am thrilled about how the storyline has been accepted. It isn’t even an issue for most young people.

“Movies provide a chance to see yourself in somebody else’s shoes. They help people stop feeling alone or weird. I hope this film has helped some people in that way. That’s the best thing you can do as an actor.”

 

For that role Slaven was named Actor of the Year by Men’s Health Serbia (Oct 2015). But his first taste of success came with another award: Best Male Actor at the Niš Film Festival for his lead in Panama (dir: Pavle Vucković), which was lauded at the Cannes Film Festival.

 

In spring 2016, Slaven enrolled as a charismatic but headstrong army cadet in Serbia’s hit TV series Vojna Akademija (Military Academy). The popular RTS series has attracted large audiences with its entertaining portrayal of young recruits inside a Serbian military academy.

 

In December, he returned from Ireland with a film award under his arm, to be presented with another accolade as best actor in Belgrade’s theatre’s puppetry production of Peter Pan. To cap that, Fluffy/Flafi, directed by Lee Filipovski and starring Slaven, was named as one of the year’s top ten short films in Canada.

 

Slaven works closely with his London-based manager and film producer MARCUS AGAR to steer his career and identify the best opportunities for his long-term prospects.

 

Marcus Agar:

“Slaven is an outstanding actor whose magnetic screen presence and universal appeal marks him out from the crowd. Even before his films were released I knew that I had to work with him. Some people are that special. I could not let him slip away.

“Slaven has embraced success in this watershed year. He has matured beyond the passionate young man buoyed up by attention into a highly motivated actor with focus, commitment and ambition. He is primed to make the most of the international interest that he is attracting for English-speaking film and TV roles.

“Slaven has seen what he can achieve and he is hungry for the opportunities ahead. Working with experienced industry professionals and, more importantly, heeding their advice has prepared Slaven for a bright path in 2017.”

 

Slaven is currently appearing in a successful run of the play Rekonstrukcija at the Serbian National Theatre in Novi Sad.

 

2017 will start as Slaven will head out on a theatre tourIn February, Slaven’s next film Biser Bojane, a contemporary rom-com from director Milan Karadzić, will premiere in SerbiaFurther confirmed projects will be announced soon.

 

Slaven Došlo 2016

December 14, 2016 Posted in Clients, News, Latest

Internacionalne Nagrade, Premijere na Crvenom Tepihu i rastuće poštovanje.

Priznanja ukazuju na buduće uspehe.

SLAVEN DOŠLO

Izvanredna godina za mladog Srpskog glumca.

 

Widespread acclaim, international awards and mounting interest from beyond his homeland have crowned a remarkable year for popular and applauded Serbian actor SLAVEN DOŠLO.

 

In 2016 Slaven claimed his place as a star of European cinema, acclaimed for highly praised roles in Pored Mene/Next to Me (2015), Panama (2015) and Vlažnost/Humidity (2016).

 

He topped the year with an Angela Award from Ireland’s Subtitle European Film Festival for his outstanding performance as a schoolboy enjoying Serbian cinema’s first gay screen kiss in director Stevan Filipović’s box office smash Next to Me.

 

Slaven Došlo:

“Moja prva internacionalna nagrada za glumu me ohrabruje da radim još bolje u 2017-oj. Srbija će uvek biti moj dom, ali želim da igram uloge privlačne Engleskom govornom području.

"Golem nivo pažnje ponekad može da opterećuje, ali svi podržavaju moj rad, kako u Srbiji tako i u inostranstvu. Ne mogu a da ne budem uzbuđen. Svi moji filmovi su dobili internacionalna priznanja i pozitivne kritike što je gotovo nečuveno za Srpsku kinematografiju. Osećam se jako srećnim I punim nade za 2017.”

 

2016 started with Slaven’s next project Vlažnost/Humidity (dir. Nikola Ljuca) named Best Film at the Belgrade International Film Festival, after premiering at the Berlin International Film Festival, where Slaven was invited as a young talent of European cinema.

 

In the summer Slaven toured film festivals in United States and Europe, as Next to Me attracted international interest and awards, including Best Film at the Pula International Film Festival and the Young Audience Award in Sarajevo.

 

Slaven Došlo:

“Mnogo sam zahvalan režiseru Stevanu Filipoviću koji mi je ukazao priliku da igram ulogu koja je imala takav uticaj u Srbiji i donosi mi uspehe sa internacionalnim publikom koja stvarno voli ovaj film.

“Kada me je Stevan pitao da igram gej ulogu imao sam dvojbe u vezi toga. To me je šokiralo pošto smatram da sam opuštena osoba. Ali to je posledica kada si okružen predrasudama celog života. Oduševljen sam kako je ova priča prihvaćena. To uopšte nije bilo sporno  za većinu mladih ljudi.

“Filmovi pružaju priliku da svet vidite iz druge perspektive. Pomažu ljudima da se ne osećaju usamljenim ili čudnim. Nadam se da je ovaj film pomogao nekim ljudima na taj način. To je nešto najbolje što, kao glumac možeš da ostvariš.”

 

For that role Slaven was named Actor of the Year by Men’s Health Serbia (Oct 2015). But his first taste of success came with another award: Best Male Actor at the Niš Film Festival for his lead in Panama (dir: Pavle Vucković), which was lauded at the Cannes Film Festival.

 

In spring 2016, Slaven enrolled as a charismatic but headstrong army cadet in Serbia’s hit TV series Vojna Akademija (Military Academy). The popular RTS series has attracted large audiences with its entertaining portrayal of young recruits inside a Serbian military academy.

 

In December, he returned from Ireland with a film award under his arm, to be presented with another accolade as best actor in Belgrade’s theatre’s puppetry production of Peter Pan. To cap that, Fluffy/Flafi, directed by Lee Filipovski and starring Slaven, was named as one of the year’s top ten short films in Canada.

 

Slaven works closely with his London-based manager and film producer MARCUS AGAR to steer his career and identify the best opportunities for his long-term prospects.

 

Marcus Agar:

“Slaven je neverovatan glumac koga gotovo univerzalna i magnetska pojava na ekranu  izdvajaju od ostatka. Čak I pre premijere njegovih filmova znao sam da moram da radim sa njim. Neki ljudi su jednostavno toliko posebni. Nisam mogao dozvoliti da mi izmakne.

“Slaven je oberučke prihvatio uspehe u ovoj godini koja ja za njega bila prekretnica. Odrastao je od strasnog mladog glumca, ohrabrenog velikom pažnjom u visoko motivisanog glumca sa fokusom, posvećenosti i ambicijom. U poziciji je da iskoristi interesovanje u inostranstvu za njega, gde ga trenutno mame TV i  filmskim ulogama za Englesko govorno područje.

“Slaven je video šta može da postigne i nestrpljiv je za još povoljnije prilike u budućnosti. Rad sa iskusnim profesionalcima i, još važnije njihovi saveti su usmerili Slavena na dobar put za 2017-u.”

 

Slaven is currently appearing in a successful run of the play Rekonstrukcija at the Serbian National Theatre in Novi Sad.

 

2017 will start as Slaven will head out on a theatre tour. In February, Slaven’s next film Biser Bojane, a contemporary rom-com from director Milan Karadzić, will premiere in Serbia. Further confirmed projects will be announced soon.

 

Slaven Došlo Showreel Nov 2016

November 30, 2016 Posted in Clients, News

Slaven Došlo in Military Academy

April 5, 2016 Posted in Clients, News

Award-winning young actor SLAVEN DOŠLO joins Military Academy

Serbia’s hit TV series Vojna Akademija (Military Academy) signs new recruit

 

SLAVEN DOŠLO has enrolled as a young army recruit in successful Serbian TV series Vojna Akademija (Military Academy). The popular RTS series has attracted large audiences with its entertaining portrayal of the lives and loves of young recruits inside a Serbian military academy since it aired in 2012.

 

Slaven will play Ilija ‘Ika’ Moraca, a charismatic but headstrong army cadet whose charm and popularity with the female recruits is challenged by the strict order of army training. Shooting on this new series will begin in May 2016.

 

After dominating Serbian cinema in the past year with highly praised roles in Pored Mene (Next to Me), Panama and Vlažnošt (Humidity)the acclaimed Serbian actor is set to conquer hearts with his latest small screen role.

 

Slaven said“I am excited to join such a well-written and popular series as Vojna Akademija. Military life was never an option for me, so it will be interesting to play a young guy who was popular among his friends in civilian life trying to adapt to discipline as part of a troop in the army. We have to go through a lot of physical preparation to make the show authentic. I hope I can stand up to the training, and that I look good in uniform, of course.”

 

Slaven was named Actor of the Year by Serbia’s Men’s Health magazine (Oct 2015), and he is credited with challenging one of the great taboos of Serbian cinema with its first on-screen gay kiss in Pored Mene (Next to Me).

 

As well as earning critical praise for his scene-stealing performances on the big screen, Slaven is winning attention from European directors attracted to his star appeal.

 

Slaven first tasted international acclaim with his powerful lead in Panama (dir: Pavle Vucković), a contemporary thriller about sexual politics and obsession. After being lauded at the Cannes Film Festival, Slaven was named Best Male Actor by the Niš Film Festival. 

 

But it was his next cinema release that was to catapult Slaven to mass appeal and see his face splashed across billboards and magazine racks for months to come. Thanks to a notable lead role in the year’s biggest domestic film, Pored Mene (Next to Me), Slaven was the unchallenged face of summer in Serbia. The ensemble drama from writer-director Stevan Filipović was named Best Film at the Pula International Film Festival and won the Young Audience Award at the Sarajevo Film Festival, before topping the Serbian box office for more than a month.

 

Slaven’s stand-out performance as a sharp-witted college boy who enjoys Serbian cinema’s first teenage gay kiss attracted overwhelming critical acclaim at home and abroad, including international trade title, The Hollywood Reporter.

 

2016 started well for Slaven with his next release picking up the Best Film award at the Belgrade International Film FestivalVlaznost (Humidity)a captivating drama from director Serbian Nikola Ljuca, premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival, where Slaven was picked out as a young hopeful among the rising stars of European cinema.

New: Serbian Actor Slaven Doslo

October 14, 2015 Posted in Clients

Delighted to announce that Marcus Agar will represent a new international client: the charismatic young Serbian actor Slaven Došlo, star of award-winning film Pored Mene (Next to Me).

As well as his headline-grabbing role in the Serbian box office smash Pored Mene, Slaven was acclaimed at this year's Cannes Film Festival for his lead in Panama, a thriller about teenage sexual politics (released October 2015).

Slaven Doslo (b: 11 April 1991 in Sombor, Serbia) is a leading young actor who has been proclaimed as a rising star of European cinema.

He is known for highly praised screen roles in Pored Mene ) (2015), Serbian writer-director Stevan Filipović‘s acclaimed high school drama. The film was named Best Film at the Pula International Film Festival 2015 and won the Young Audience Award at that year’s Sarajevo Film Festival.

In the film, which topped the Serbian box office and screened to packed houses across the country and at the Raindance Film Festival in the UK, Slaven was praised for his role as a sharp-witted college boy who enjoys Serbian cinema’s first teenage gay kiss. His performance attracted headlines and critical acclaim, including international trade title, The Hollywood Reporter.

Slaven attended the Cannes Film Festival 2015 to promote Panama, from director Pavle Vuckovic. He has completed work on Vlaznost (2016), a drama from director Nikola Ljuca.

Slaven studied acting at the Belgrade Academy of Arts and is a member of the Youth Theatre in Novi Sad. For his stage performance in Life Stands Still, Life Goes On (2015), Slaven received the Special Sterija Award and the Dara Calenic Foundation Award for the Best Young Actor.

Strawberry Energy & Marcus Agar

July 23, 2015 Posted in Clients, News

Award-winning smart city technologies brand Strawberry Energy signs Marcus Agar Communications for major UK launch

 

Serbia’s solar-powered street furniture business boosts its international credentials

 

Global PR consultancy Marcus Agar Communications will advise Serbia’s leading smart city brand Strawberry Energy as it prepares for the UK launch of its smart street furniture.

 

Founding director Marcus Agar will work closely with Strawberry Energy’s CEO Miloš Milisavljević to provide guidance on PR and communications strategy as part of an integrated campaign to build the brand’s image and reputation in the UK.

 

This appointment is part of an up-scaled marketing campaign ahead of a high-profile launch for the Strawberry Smart Bench in London’s Canary Wharf, in September. This latest piece of interactive street furniture will drive Strawberry Energy’s expansion into the UK’s burgeoning smart city market and will provide a springboard to roll out the solar-powered units in cities and business centres across Britain and Europe.

 

The Strawberry Tree, a freestanding charging hub for phones and portable devices which was named as one of the ‘top ten urban innovations that work’ at the New Cities Summit 2014, is already a success with nearly half a million users in parks and cities across southern Europe. It has attracted attention from the US, Australia, Africa and the Middle East, with further installations scheduled over the coming year.

 

With more than twenty years in global PR and brand communications, Marcus Agar will bring a wealth of experience and know-how to Strawberry Energy as the brand looks to capitalise on growing interest in smart city technology to expand the business and extend its reach beyond its Serbian homeland.

 

Miloš Milisavljević said: “Marcus has been a trusted advisor to me for many years, providing good counsel on communications matters and much more. So his appointment to our panel of advisors was a natural and exciting choice as we look to make our mark in the UK smart city business. Marcus’s extensive international experience and strategic insight will be invaluable to us as we grow our business in the UK.”

 

Marcus Agar said: “The commitment that Miloš has shown to growing Strawberry Energy’s place in the burgeoning smart city market has built a business that is primed to achieve its full potential as we tap the rich vein of opportunities in the growing UK smart technology market. Having directed international brand campaigns and advised senior business leaders, I am confident that I can play an integral role in the ongoing development of Strawberry Energy as a significant international brand.”

 

Marcus has extensive experience in corporate communications and reputation management including Nobel Peace Laureate Wangari Maathai, the Miss World Organisation, Disney and HBO. He has fronted consumer PR campaigns for major global brands such as Sony, BT, Pizza Hut, Warner Home Video (Harry Potter, Friends, The Matrix), Britvic, Planet Hollywood, Kodak and Volkswagen, and led projects with George Michael, Rolling Stones, Madonna, Versace, Sylvester Stallone and Tim Burton

London gets Solar Smart Benches

June 23, 2015 Posted in Clients, News, Latest

Solar ‘smart benches’ power London’s Canary Wharf

 

Copyright: Strawberry energy. Design: Milos Milivojevic

Workers and visitors to London’s Canary Wharf will be the world’s first to enjoy the benefits of a new kind of smart street furniture designed to relieve some of modern life’s daily frustrations and make our cities ‘smarter’.

 

Four interactive solar-powered benches by smart city innovator Strawberry energy, combining somewhere pleasant to sit with phone charging points ‘on the go’ and local information, will premiere in London, Canary Wharf, late summer 2015.

 

These smart benches were developed during real estate company’s Cognicity Challenge, which was set up to identify smart cities start-up businesses from around the world, and pilot their technologies on the estate.

 

Strawberry energy was given a special award and has been selected to implement its new technology, an addition to its innovative range of solar street furniture portfolio, in Canary Wharf.

 

“We developed the Strawberry Bench as part of a modern smart city that cares for its residents, commuters and visitors. It enhances people’s experience in public spaces and motivates them to enjoy hands-on experience of renewable energy,’ said Milos Milisavljevic, founder and CEO of Strawberry energy.

 

“Strawberry Benches will help to make London a smart city for smart people.”

 

As well as free mobile phone charging via a range of connectors, strikingly sculpted Strawberry energy’s solar-powered smart benches will provide multiple services such as relevant local information, air quality levels, and an emergency call button.

 

By offering a place for a lunchtime break or a rest from shopping, a Strawberry Bench will encourage people to sit and socialise while charging their batteries – in more than one sense.

 

“London will be the first city to use these smart benches. Success here will be a springboard to roll out solar energy units across cities and business zones in Britain, Europe and the Middle East, where innovative technology is being used to build more sustainable, smart urban spaces that support people’s diverse needs,’ said Milos Milisavljevic.

 

“Our everyday needs are changing at an incredible rate to keep up with advances in technology. We are experiencing the mobile revolution, but public spaces have remained largely unaltered and our not meeting our daily needs. We intend to change that by developing better street furniture that will make life easier.”

 

Camille Waxer, Chief Administrative Officer of Canary Wharf Group said: “We were introduced to Strawberry Energy through the Cognicity Challenge. They pitched an impressive concept of a sustainable, yet functional bench that uses solar energy to power mobile devices. Their innovative design led us to install four of these benches across the Canary Wharf Estate and we’re pretty excited to see the interaction.”

 

Stephen Andrews, Project Design Executive for Canary Wharf, was sufficiently impressed by how the team from Strawberry energy shaped their smart city technology to suit the needs of the East London business and retail space that he backed the purchase of four smart benches.

 

“This is not just about technology nor is it just a product,” said Stephen. “In my view it will be an interesting and, ultimately, very flexible piece of street furniture that provides a service to the tech mobile consumers of today. Solar powered connectivity and amenity in a Smart City environment – what’s not to like?”

 

About Strawberry energy

Strawberry energy’s mission is to enhance the outdoor experience of the 21st century mobile generation. Their network of public solar charging and WiFi stations, Strawberry Trees, reached 400.000 users so far. Strawberry energy won the Verge Accelerate 2014 in San Francisco and was the finalist for the World Technology Award 2013, while the Strawberry Tree was named as one of ‘top ten urban innovations that work’ at the New Cities Summit in Dallas in 2014.

 

For interviews with Milos Milisavljevic, please contact: 

Marcus Agar: marcus@marcusagar.com / +44 (0)7900 826483 / @WildRoosterUK

Celebrate 60 Years of Eurovision

March 26, 2015 Posted in Clients, News

Official Eurovision author reveals the humorous highs and dismal lows of the song contest’s colourful history

 

Internationally acclaimed author and broadcaster, John Kennedy O’Connor, presents a gloriously nostalgic and resplendent new book, The Official Celebration of the 60th Eurovision Song Contest, to celebrate the lighter side of the World’s biggest international talent show.

 

Packed with fascinating facts, rare photographs and light-hearted anecdotes, this all-new book, endorsed by the European Broadcasting Union, showcases the people, the songs and the stories behind some of the contest’s best-loved moments.

 

From the celebrated high points and the dismal lows, to the scandals, the innovators and the most outrageous outfits, John Kennedy O’Connor’s fun but factual new book captures the singular flavour of the Eurovision Song Contest from its relatively humble beginnings in 1956 to the international extravaganza watched by millions of viewers that it has become today.

 

In his book, released by Carlton Books on 9 April as part of the EBU’s official celebrations of the Eurovision Song Contest (Vienna: 23 May), John presents a humorous look at the wild and often controversial character(s) of the world’s most popular international music contest.

 

“As millions of fans around the world prepare to enjoy the 60th Eurovision Song Contest, it is time to look back at some of the many fascinating and humorous goings-on at this celebrated event,’ said author John Kennedy-O’Connor. “The Eurovision Song Contest has always attracted colourful characters, both on stage and off. This official book is a celebration of the glorious highs and dismal lows of an event that is loved and ridiculed in almost equal measure.

 

“In the true spirit of the contest, I have uncovered interesting stories about the flamboyant entertainers, breathtaking performances and most memorable outfits from the contest that has spawned almost as many anti-heroes as it has stars. This official history shows what fans of the Eurovision Song Contest have long known: it is perfectly acceptable to be both irreverent and relevant at the same time. Indeed, it should be celebrated.”

 

Initially available in English, German and Swedish editions, with further translations in the pipeline, this full-colour book is a natural accompaniment to John’s highly successful book of facts and statistics endorsed by the European Broadcasting Union, The Official History of the Eurovision Song Contest. Released in 2005, that regularly updated and expanded book has been released in English, German, French, Swedish, Dutch, Danish, Finnish and Russian, it is used worldwide as a go-to reference to all things Eurovision.

 

As well as being the author of two official Eurovision books, John Kennedy O’Connor is the TV host for San Marino’s Eurovision Song Contest coverage. He is a regular contributor to Eurovision programming and is a favourite commentator in international media.

 

For interviews with John Kennedy O’Connor, please contact:

 

Marcus Agar: marcus@marcusagar.com / +44 (0)7900 826483 / @WildRoosterUK

Marc Almond on The Velvet Trail

January 8, 2015 Posted in News, Latest

Marc Almond The Velvet TrailCelebrated singer and performer Marc Almond will release an album of original material The Velvet Trail on 9 March 2015 through Cherry Red Records.

 

Marc had hinted that 2010's Varieté would be his last recording to feature his own original material - but English producer and songwriter Chris Braide was not going to let it rest there. As a fan of Marc's work, Chris - who has worked alongside Lana Del Ray, Beyoncé, Britney Spears and David Guetta - set out to change his mind.

 

“It was an absurd idea to think there would be no more Marc Almond original songs,' said Chris. "This man wrote ‘Say Hello Wave Goodbye’. We need more of those passionate, unique and original songs. Just like Bowie and Bolan before him, he's a true original. I felt the songwriting muse had left me, possibly forever.  Then an email arrived with three instrumental tracks. I got goose bumps. I was blown away.

 

"Chris had an understanding of the chord changes I adored, of the sounds I loved; songs in minor keys with big dark dramatic pianos and strings. I sat down to write, both excited and inspired. I didn’t have to labour over lyrics, as they came to me, sometimes telling a story and often abstract, a colourful line or an image was enough”, Marc remembers

 

"Three songs were written in a matter of days: ‘Minotaur’ a dramatic song about rage and animal passions, ‘Scar’ a torch song about deception and ‘Winter Sun’, a melancholic reflective song about fading love. Some of the songs have a personal melancholy, reflective and evocative, like the title track ‘The Velvet Trail’, a song about memories, nostalgia, childhood and death, and the song ‘The Pain of Never’.

 

"Chris wanted to create his ultimate Marc Almond record, electric, lush, emotional, dark and sexy and I felt inspired by his tunes and production to deliver just that”.

 

A UK tour will support the March 9 album releaseI'm really excited about the tour,' said Marc. "I can't wait to perform the songs live. This will be one of the most exciting shows I’ve ever staged”.

 
The Velvet Trail will be released as:

Regular CD Digipack - SFE039
Limited UK Edition CD/DVD - SFE039D

Limited Edition double LP with poster plus 2 extra tracks - SFELP039D

Europe's Top Christmas Trees

November 26, 2014 Posted in Clients, News, Latest

Nothing says Christmas like a naturally scented fir tree richly dressed with sparkling ornaments and lights. Homes across Sussex can enjoy what is said to be Europe’s favourite Christmas tree, thanks to Sussex Garden Craft and Paternoster’s Farm.

 

These two businesses spend the year growing top quality Nordman Fir trees to be centre of festivities in homes and community locations across the county.

 

Trees ranging from four to eight foot tall will be available to buy from 3 December at their site (RH17 5SL) off the A23 in Warninglid, West Sussex (01444 461474). Larger sizes can be arranged by order.

 

Handcrafted decorations will also be available and, at weekends, a delicious glass of mulled wine will be on hand for adult visitors. 

 

The Nordman Fir is a gloriously dark green tree with layered branches that are ideally spaced to display lights and ornaments. This delicate pine scented tree is also a low-drop variety, meaning there are far fewer needles to sweep up than with some Christmas trees. As the Nordic look is a popular theme this Christmas, with wooden tree ornaments and red and white baubles likely to play a part in many homes, this is an ideal time to consider buying a real tree to make the festive season even more special. It is easy to become over-excited when picking your Christmas tree. The biggest tree on the farm can seem right, but one that dominates a room, can spoil your Christmas. It pays to take time before setting off to buy a tree to measure any sloping ceilings or alcoves and decide how to get a tree into your home.

 

Some simple tips to extend the enjoyment of a tree include cutting a few centimeters off the trunk and hydrating the tree in a bucket of water for a day. A tree will stay fresh for longer if stood in a suitable stand or sand-filled pot which allows it to be topped up with water regularly.  Position the tree away from direct heat - not next to a radiator - to prevent it from drying out and dropping its needles.

 

About Sussex Garden Craft

 

Qualified landscape gardener Richard Soper established Sussex Garden Craft with a commitment and passion to provide customers across the county with better gardens and outdoor living spaces. From its Crawley base, Sussex Garden Craft provides personalised services to homeowners and commercial properties across both counties, and has established a foothold with a growing number of satisfied customers in Crawley, Horsham, East Grinstead, Brighton and surrounding areas.

 

Each job starts by discussing what the customer wants from their garden and how they will use it. Using knowledge and experience, Richard designs a scheme of imaginative planting and landscaping to deliver a beautiful, practical and easy to maintain garden that suits the customer’s wishes. If a garden is in need of a little TLC, Sussex Garden Craft can do that, too. Working with materials to suit the needs and budget, a maintenance plan can be tailored which could also include one-off projects such as hedge trimming, fencing paneling or garden clearance. Whether the dream is for a redesigned open space or the job simply requires a trustworthy gardener and safe pair of hands for those annoying little jobs, Sussex Garden Craft will deliver quality results at a reasonable price.

 

Notes:

• Christmas trees will be available to buy from 3 December at Paternoster’s Christmas Trees (RH17 5SL), just off the A23 in Warninglid, West Sussex.

• Sussex Garden Craft (note: a client) would like to discuss how they could make your garden or outdoor living space a better place to enjoy all year round. Contact Richard: 07532 078287 enquiries@SussexGardenCraft.co.uk

The Woodentops – Granular Tales

February 10, 2014 Posted in Clients, Comment

Comebacks and revivals are often more rehash than return to form, as bands that have slipped from view bid to recreate what once made them so special but end up pleasing nothing more than the hard core or the band’s bank balance.

 

So when a long-absent band that you once enjoyed on record and stage releases a new album that sounds fresh and exciting while echoing the best of their previous output, it is worth shouting about.

 

The Woodentops have done just that with Granular Tales, their first new release in 25 years.

 

From the band‘s infectiously jaunty 1986 debut Giant and its more dance floor friendly follow up Wooden Foot Cops on the Highway, The Woodentops served up some of the best mid Eighties’ indie thrash, with Rolo McGinty’s quirkily tuneful vocals over spiky guitars and a feverish rhythm section: Good Thing, So Good Today, Get It On and Well, Well, Well and Hear Me James

 

While a knowing maturity has brought a slightly less frenetic feel to some of the new tracks Granular Tales (Cherry Red) still sits very comfortably in the jagged vein of indie hit album Giant.

 

Don’t get me wrong end: what endeared The Woodentops and the phenomenal Giant to so many is still in play here. It is just that a darker tone underlies many of the tracks on Granular Tales, which sits well with a brooding Spanish sound that underlies some of the tracks here.

 

Helmed by main songwriter Rolo McGinty, Granular Tales is a fresh and feisty 12-track album that should more than satisfy the band’s early following, while also holding its own among the new audience it deserves to attract.

 

The band were known as much for their rollicking live shows, including support slots for The Smiths, Echo and the Bunnymen, Julian Cope, David Bowie and Prince, as for their twitchy singles. Good to see, then, that the band will be supporting the release of Granular Tales with a short but sweet UK tour and the promise of a more comprehensive outing to follow.

 

While hypnotic tracks such as What Was Taken I Don’t Want Back and the bobbing Conversations should satisfy the band’s strong live following, gentle anthem Take Me Through the Night and bass-heavy lament Because of You are likely to came into their own on stage.

 

Granular Tales will be released by Cherry Red on February 24, followed by a short UK tour in March. First single off the album will be Third Floor Rooftop High.

 

Watch this album preview:
The Woodentops: Granular Tales

 

'Tesla's Story is in Safe Hands'

November 4, 2013 Posted in Clients, News

Nikola Tesla's life story is in safe hands with American director Michael Anton, said TESLA's new production partner Vesna Jovanoska.

 

“Michael is infectiously passionate and committed about both projects, which is part of the reason why ena Film places such faith in his abilities as a director,’ said Vesna Jovanoska of Germany production powerhouse ena Film. “His knowledge of the life of Nikola Tesla is broad and he is deeply committed to representing the great man in the most truthful and respectful light. Michael was born to direct TESLA. His story is in safe hands.” 

 

Vesna was speaking ahead of presenting plans for the movie TESLA at the American Film Market. As part of a rich and varied seven-film slate of films to be pitched at this week’s American Film Market, the acclaimed international production house will bring two projects to be directed by Pittsburgh-based Michael Anton: the highly anticipated biopic TESLA (IMDB / Facebook / Twitter) and sci-fi thriller Apocalypse Radio.

 

ena Film is best known as a leading production company on acclaimed international movies such as Dust with Joseph Fiennes, British sumo comedy Secret Society, and Til Schweiger’s Der Eisbär (Polar Bear). ena Film head Vesna Jovanoska will take on a producer role for both projects.

 

TESLA (@TeslaTheMovie) will tell the true story of the eminent scientist Nikola Tesla, who has seen a recent surge in global popularity. The widely awaited biopic, to shoot in Serbia, German and the US in spring 2014, has already attached an award-winning international cast and attracted more than 300 news pieces worldwide. TESLA is the only major film in advanced pre-production that will tell the true story of the life and works of Nikola Tesla.

 

As well as the commitment of director Michael Anton, ena Film was attracted to the domestic US and international audience appeal and business potential for the most anticipated film in Balkan cinema. “TESLA is a story that cries out to be told,’ said Vesna Jovanoska. “Michael Anton has written a great script that portrays the incredible characters and episodes in Nikola Tesla’s life, without resorting to any over embellishment. As a movie with such a well written script, TESLA has tremendous potential.”

 

Further primary casting is on the cards and an announcement is imminent regarding a significant addition to the frontline production team alongside director Michael Anton. “The involvement of ena Film has opened many doors that previously we could not afford to approach,’ said director Michael Anton. “Thanks to the ramped-up eight-figure budget (US$), TESLA will enjoy superior production values and a more substantial cast. We are currently attempting to finalize a deal with our strongest attachment yet to coincide with AFM. I have no doubt that his attachment will open the floodgates in regards to increased interest for this film both domestically and internationally. Out of respect for the process I will not speak further on the matter except to say, stay tuned.”

 

Co-produced by Silvermask Films and ena Film, TESLA will feature leading US character actor Richard Riehle as George Westinghouse alongside Branko Tomović (Entity, Fury) in the title role. They will be supported by some of Serbia’s most acclaimed actors, such as Mirjana Karanović (Esma’s Secret), Hristina Popović (Circles) and Marija Karan (The Rite). Producers will announce further key international cast as soon as their attachments have been confirmed.

 

As well as TESLA, ena Film and Michael Anton will be at AFM to engage in talks about Apocalypse Radio, a sci-fi thriller that has been described as a potent cross between District 9, Crash and Lord of the Flies.

Julianne Regan in SOPHIE tribute

September 17, 2013 Posted in Clients, News

The Last Cry TENEK Julianne ReganAcclaimed singer songwriter Julianne Regan (All About Eve) has teamed up with British bands The Last Cry and Tenek to release a six-track charity single in aid of prominent anti-hate charity The Sophie Lancaster FoundationJulianne Regan, best known as the captivating voice of platinum selling band All About Eve, was approached by south coast Dark Wave band The Last Cry with the idea of adding vocals to a song in support of The Sophie Lancaster Foundation.

 

“As long-time admirers of Julianne’s work, we knew that hers would be the perfect voice to help the meaningful lyric soar and ensure that the message of the song is heard,’ said The Last Cry’s Andrew Birch, explaining his hopes for the song, Under My Skin. “Julianne said that she loved the song and would be happy to support such a worthwhile cause that is close to her heart.

 

“The result is even better than we could have dared to dream. Julianne adds a haunting and heartfelt voice to the song, complementing my lead vocal. We know that many friends of Sophie will be fans of All About Eve and they will take strength from Julianne’s support in this way. Hopefully it will encourage more people to download the tracks so that we can raise cash for this incredible charity.”

 

All About Eve enjoyed a string of international hits, acclaimed albums and sell-out European tours in the eighties and nineties before downing tools in 2004. Julianne has continued to write and record her own material and, on occasion, with select musical collaborators.

 

Appreciating the charity’s work, Julianne Regan was quick to accept the opportunity to support The Sophie Lancaster Foundation. "I am in favour of any activity that helps raise awareness of the damage and misery that arises when the small-minded attitudes and behaviours of one human being are inflicted upon another,’ she said. “I believe that education and legislation can work hand in hand to achieve a situation where people can be true to who they are without fear of being punished or persecuted for that.”

 

Three versions of Under My Skin by electronica duo Tenek have been recorded by The Last Cry featuring Julianne Regan, alongside three mixes of The Last Cry’s song Punishment performed by Tenek. The tracks will be available via major download sites from Monday 7 October. All artist profits from sale of the tracks will be donated to The Sophie Lancaster Foundation.

 

Among the six tracks is a special ‘Rise Up’ remix by The Magic Cube, aka Arizona-based producer & composer Kevin Tye, who combines elements of film scores with fast & dark electro beats, as found on his well-received first single Legion and anticipated EP StarFighter, to be released in October 2013. "I was approached by Tenek to do a remix for the upcoming EP in support of The Sophie Lancaster Foundation,’ said Kevin. “I've known Pete and Geoff for a long time and knew after speaking with them what a great cause this will benefit. I wanted to reiterate the theme about rising up above adversity and intolerance that was key in Sophie's story and that we all need to respect one another. It's a pleasure to be able to contribute to this great cause and help The Sophie Lancaster Foundation."

 

The Sophie Lancaster Foundation was formed after the Lancashire teenager was attacked and killed in 2007 as she walked with her boyfriend, Rob. Sophie and Rob liked to express themselves in how they dressed and wore their hair. Ultimately, this led to the fatal attack. The Foundation works with schools, young offenders and prisons to challenge the prejudice faced by many as they express their individuality. They also lobby politicians and police forces to encourage respect and protection for subcultures in communities. The charity has campaigned to extend hate crime legislation to include people from alternative subcultures, lifestyle or dress. Progress has been rapid, with Greater Manchester Police adding ‘alternative lifestyle’ to their hate crime strands.

 

"This beautiful release means so much to us,’ said Kate Conboy-Greenwood, Campaign Manager at The Sophie Lancaster Foundation. “We could never have anticipated that such a collaboration with Julianne Regan would mark the sixth anniversary of the tragic death of Sophie. This beautiful song will reach the hearts of many more people and help assure Sophie's legacy lives on. We thank The Last Cry, Julianne Regan and Tenek for their efforts and wish them every success. The funds will enable us to further our work to create safer communities where ‘difference’ is celebrated, not feared.”

 

Established Dark Wave band The Last Cry released their critically acclaimed debut album Walking To The Edge in 2009. Buoyed by the energy of a triumphant European tour, the trio was driven to write their more upbeat second album Living In Grey, released late in 2012. This album presents a melodic soundscape while maintaining the band’s familiar emotional vocals over the powerful melancholia of keyboards, bass and guitar that has attracted such a faithful international fan base. They are longtime supporters of the S.O.P.H.I.E campaign.

 

Since Sussex-based Tenek debuted in 2007, the electronica duo has toured two well-received albums of grinding electro grooves and uplifting synthesiser pop in the UK and Europe, including festivals and support slots alongside 80s synth legends The Human League, as well as Gary Numan, A Flock of Seagulls and EBM giants Front 242. More recently, Tenek supported Toyah and 90s pop rockers Republica, and have they continue to receive stronger reviews and greater airplay for each release.

 

"We are delighted to be involved in this project,’ Tenek said. “We both feel that The Sophie Lancaster Foundation does a tremendous job raising awareness for those with alternative lifestyles who get victimised and attacked whilst going about their daily lives. We hope that by releasing this EP with our great friends 'The Last Cry' we can help to raise money and awareness for what is a very worthwhile cause."

 

For information, contact: Marcus Agar: marcus@marcusagar.com  / Twitter: @WildRoosterUK

Friend of Strawberry energy

September 17, 2013 Posted in Clients, News

Serbia's award-winning entrpreneurial business Strawberry energy honoured Marcus Agar as a valued friend of their work to increase the benefits of solar energy. Marcus has been actively supporting Strawberry energy's founding CEO Miloš Milisavljević since he came up with the concept for a solar powered public mobile phone charger, some years ago. 

 

As a business and communications consultant, Marcus has advised Strawberry energy on multi-level activities to promote and extend the international reach of the acclaimed business.

 

"Our success is based on efforts from every member of our team, our associates and those people who open-heartedly advise, direct and guide us,' said Strawberry energy said in their latest news announcement. "We have met many outstanding people, and one of them is certainly Marcus Agar, a trained journalist, skillful copywriter, international communications specialist and accomplished speech writer from England.

 

"For all of us who respect Tesla's work, his most admiring role is in the position of Associate Producer on the forthcoming biopic TESLA, the movie that will present the extraordinary life and work of this great scientist who made such a mark on the 20th century. 

 

"This movie about the thinker, scientist and humanitarian will be produced in the USA and Europe, and shot partly in Serbia out of respect to Tesla's origins. Actors from the USA and Serbia will convey the atmosphere of the lands in which Nikola Tesla lives and worked. With London-based Serb Branko Tomovic as Tesla and Mirjana Kananovic as his mother Djuka, we are sure that this movie will rightly depict the life of this great man."

 

Read the full announcement from Strawberry energy here, in English or Serbian.

Meeting with Croatian President

August 17, 2013 Posted in Balkans

To mark the occassion of Croatia joining the European Union., Marcus Agar was invited to meet with the President of Croatia during an official visit to London. In a meeting at London's Ritz Hotel, the President spoke of his hopes for Croatia's future as a full member of the EU and outlined his vision for a stronger, more collaborative Balkan region.

 

“We have a strategic position, considering transportation from east to west,’ he said, outlining how the EU could benefit from Croatia as a new gateway to Europe,' the President said during the meeting with Marcus Agar.

 

“We are going to bring a society of goodwill. We are not burdened by an enormous weight of crime. We have a very open society who accepts foreigners and we are some kind of road to the south east. Definitely Europe will not be complete without other south east European countries. Croatia will help because we are connected with those countries, historically, culturally, politically. I think Europe will benefit from our accession.”

 

Marcus also joined an official Welcoming Croatia reception on the river Thames, attended by ambassadors and dignitaries from neighouring Balkan states.

 

Interviews and reports from the meeting can be found at wild-rooster.com.

 

 

Polar Explorer Launches New Book

August 17, 2013 Posted in Clients

Alex HibbertAfter two daring expeditions to the Arctic, polar explorer Alex Hibbert has carved his name in ice. Now he has written Maybe, a book to detail the pain as well as the glory that goes hand in hand with his time on the ice. 

 

Alex is a world-record holding polar expedition leader, author, speaker and photographer. Maybe is the story of the planning and preparation that goes into a major polar expedition. 

 

Alex became known to the world after successfully completing the longest fully unsupported polar journey. His first book, The Long Haul, received acclaim from his peers as well as reviewers, as it set out the daily struggle to reach his arctic goal and return home safely. An accompanying photo book of his expedition, Kalaallit Nunaat: Land of the People, is also available. 

 

Only twenty-seven years old, Alex has spent over one hundred and sixty-five days unsupported in the Arctic and has crossed the second largest icecap on Earth.

 

 

 

TESLA will be a landmark film

August 17, 2013 Posted in Clients, News, Latest

TESLA the movieTESLA (@TeslaTheMovie), the forthcoming Nikola Tesla biopic will be a landmark project for Serbia, as well as being a long overdue reappraisal of the revolutionary thinker and true humanitarian, according to Marcus Agar, Associate Producer on the film. 

 

“TESLA will be an international milestone in the legacy of the Serb scientist,’ said Marcus. “It shows a man who was one of the greatest minds of the twentieth century. As well as a great scientist, it reveals Tesla to be a revolutionary thinker and humanitarian."

 

The film, which will be produced in the US and Europe and shoot in Serbia, will detail the life and works of Nikola Tesla.

 

"Director Michael Anton has produced a tight script that represents Tesla in the most truthful light yet, covering key periods in his eventful life, mostly in the US but also in emotional scenes at home with his mother and sisters. Michael’s excellent script breathes life into the great man, without resorting to any exaggerations of his character. The truth will be more than enough in this landmark film. It is not surprising that the integrity of Michael’s script played a big part in attracting our notable cast of acclaimed regional and international actors.”

 

With extensive experience in international communications and entertainment publicity, this is an ideal project for Marcus. For the past seven years Marcus has worked as a consultant on projects in Serbia and Bosnia. He also writes the respected Wild Rooster blog and is regularly featured in various news and lifestyle publications in the region.

 

“During many visits to the region in the past seven years, I have come to respect the Serb people and the Balkan way of life. I treasure the friendships and experiences that I enjoy there. My relevant experience, valuable network of friends and business partners and a deep-rooted interest and active participation in Serbian culture ensures that I can play a significant role on the director’s core team,’ he said.

 

In TESLA, key scenes featuring Nikola and his family will be shot in Serbia, with the cast of local actors speaking in Serbian. "For us, Serbia is not just a backdrop to the story,' said Marcus. "Our reason for shooting in Serbia is out of respect for Tesla’s Serb heritage and to represent his story with authenticity. Tesla is on record saying that he was proud to be a Serb. So filming in Serbia was always a given. The people, language and locations of Serbia will play a key role in making TESLA the success that we all expect it to be.”

 

As Associate Producer and International Publicist, Marcus has a varied role to play in bringing TESLA to the screen. “I am extremely fortunate to work with a director such as Michael Anton,' said Marcus. "He has written an excellent script and he is very collaborative in his approach to work. As we near our shoot, I can be tasked with a range of frontline activities to help make the script a reality. The diversity can be extremely rewarding, especially as we have received such a positive response from Serbia and across the Balkans. I know how highly Serbs value the legacy of Nikola Tesla and so I appreciate the faith that is being placed in us to handle his story with respect and honesty. We won’t let them down."

Tapping Serbian Creativity

August 17, 2013 Posted in Balkans

Marcus Agar Communications has established working partnerships with some of Serbia's most exciting creative minds, in an ongoing move to provide clients with access to the best results at the most competitive prices. Building on successful projects already undertaken in Serbia, Bosnia and Croatia, Marcus has handpicked a team of creative young designers and website developers, who will be working as part of the agency’s extended team. 

 

“We have been active on a variety of projects in the Balkans since 2007,' said Marcus. "We have experienced the enthusiasm and energy in the region. Working with Miloš Milisavljević, the power behind the award-winning Strawberry Energy, made clear to me just what can be achieved by the new generation of creative minds in Serbia today. Miloš is a very driven and inspirational young man. Working with him was the start of a business opportunity for me.

 

"I want to create and encourage more opportunities to capture that positive attitude. Not only am I able to tap into that energy, I am also able to bring these people togher with our clients. For me, it is about working with the most exciting young designers and keen creative minds, while delivering the best service for my clients. Serbia is rich in a key resource - creative people.

 

TESLA is the latest project to benefit from these partnerships. A team of dynamic young Novi Sad designers and web developers have created the official website for the Nikola Tesla biopic, to film in Serbia and the US, this autumn.