Wood Words Magazine 18-19

WOODWORDS The Collingwood College Alumni Magazine 2018-2019

OPENING GALA CONCERT REVIEWS

18 19 THE GYM THE THEATRE

THE BAR THE JUNIOR THE COFFEE SHOP COMMON ROOM

UNVEILING OUR NEW COLLEGE SPACES

WELCOME CONTENTS 02 03 05-11

Welcome Opening Gala Concert Reviews New College Spaces: Bar & JCR, Theatre & Gym

Front cover photo credit: Jack Burlison

Joe performing with Heartbreak Harry & the Charmers

Reflecting on this year’s edition of Wood Words, I am struck by the very different nature of its content. Normally, it is full of human stories about the achievements of our students and alumni. These exemplify the energy, creativity, industry, intellect, and social responsibility that are hallmarks of so many members of our Collingwood community.

However, this year, a shorter version of the magazine focuses upon our physical environment, particularly the improvements that have been made over the past two years. In these pages, we describe a College that we believe provides a physical and social environment that will enable our students to fulfil their potential in those areas that are most important to them. Our students’ mental and physical health will be massively aided by our state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor facilities (we are well on track to be DU college champions of sport for the 8th year in a row). Our goal, to achieve a similar impact in the Arts, will be boosted by our new theatre, refurbished recording studio, and our new film and photography facilities. We are seeing increased patterns of social interaction in our new JCR, with widespread usage for both study space and relaxation, and, after its full refurb, The Stag’s Head is still a major spot for socialising in the evenings. After being home to bulldozers and JCBs for a while, the Meadow will soon return to its former glory and next spring, we anticipate having more than 250,000 bulbs burst through the College grounds, followed by coloured carpets of rhododendrons and azaleas... just in time to calm and relax everyone during the revision period.

We are immensely grateful to Mark Hillery for his generous funding of much of these developments. He has provided us with a first class environment that has already

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enriched the experience of our students.

However, we still have so much to do in respect of our student development programme. Alongside Wood Words you will have received a copy of our publication, A Path Through The Wood, which showcases the progress of our funded and supported student development opportunities to date. So many of you have contributed to the outstanding range of life-changing activities that is described in these pages. Thank you so much for this.

Upscaling this programme, and increasing the number and range of funded and supported opportunities for our students is our biggest priority for the next few years.

Our plan is to reach a point where 150 students annually are able to take advantage of these, and similar, opportunities. We hope to operate a need-blind application process whereby we can support all those who are successful in competitive application but might otherwise not be able to take up the opportunity because of financial concerns.

This goal is, of course, hugely ambitious and will require much planning, determination and, crucially, the active support of our alumni.

However, high aspiration, and striving for the seemingly impossible, are omnipresent at Collingwood… and hey… they said we’d never get a football pitch!

Professor Joe Elliott Principal of Collingwood College

WELCOME

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OPENING GALA CONCERT REVIEWS The 10th of November 2018 was a special day in Collingwood’s history; after almost 18 months of work, the new spaces of the redevelopment project were finally unveiled. To celebrate, we held a very special opening Gala Concert in the Mark Hillery Arts Centre.

Kick-started with an impressive sound and light show to showcase our new technical capabilities, the concert featured a range of Collingwood alumni and student performers, classical music, hits from the musicals, as well as a bit of stand-up comedy.

“OH COLLINGWOOD, IS WONDERFUL, OH COLLINGWOOD IS WONDERFUL…”

During the concert, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Stuart Corbridge, presented Mark Hillery with a Dunelmensis Award, an award given by the University’s Senate to a Durham alumnus or alumna for meritorious and exceptional service in support of the University.

I remember being completely confused by this song (well, chant) when I started at Collingwood; but despite the questionable lyrics that followed (which the students have since amended to something that more accurately reflects Collingwood’s ethos…) I would sing it at the top of my voice during Freshers’ Week, fiercely declaring my loyalty to a college I had just days before joined. And, as anyone who went to Collingwood will testify, it was wonderful. A wonderful hub of the very best friendships; a supportive home for our time at University; a network you join for life.

I am in the rather unique situation of never having left Durham, as I now work as the Head of Student Music at Experience Durham.

My involvement in the College has varied greatly over the past 8 years since that weird and wonderful Freshers’ Week, but it has been incredible to see College grow (not just grow, flourish!) and even more lovely to be involved this November for such a momentous occasion.

Joe Elliott (who incidentally started at Collingwood the same time as me) called me into his office many months ago with real excitement as he asked me to reserve the 10th of November 2018 in my diary and made me promise to be involved in the organisation of the opening Gala Concert of the new Mark Hillery Arts Centre. Of course I said yes! What a fantastic evening it would be, to show off a new space with Collingwood alumni performers and students coming together... The only problem came in programming the damn thing!

Every day another fantastic alumni would pop into Joe’s head who just had to be invited to perform, or another guest (perhaps having passed Joe on the street) needed to be invited. This thing was getting wildly out of hand… to Collingwood’s credit of course! Next thing I find out there are two concerts, not one, on the 10th. The guest list became so large, but students had to be given the opportunity to enjoy and experience the space too, so an afternoon performance was added (in true Collingwood style, students coming first above staff; I liked this addition

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GALA to the day). In honesty, it was a thing of chaotic beauty: alumni dropping out, dropping in, tweaking and changing their programme constantly, but always in the most gracious way.

I knew it would be one of those events that all just came together on the day, and it did. And that was not down to me in the slightest; all I had done was send an email or two and hope people turned up at the right time. It was all down to the outstanding technical crew of students alongside Jonny Browning, without whom the show would just not have happened. They made it look so easy! They were in their element, playing with the magnificent tech gifted to the college by Mark, rigging the theatre, putting out the chairs, not sleeping until 5am before the concert and everything else imaginable.

It was an outstanding, but exhausting and completely humbling day.

There I was, having graduated and now working for the University, completely having forgotten what it was like to pull an all-nighter, not for your degree but for the college you love, and to produce a show which was quite spectacular. I was grateful again for all the opportunities that Collingwood offered to me, and felt inspired to encourage all students to really make the most of their own opportunities here. That was the overarching impression of the day, as well, of course, as the talented students who performed everything from an electric harp to stunning musical theatre pieces. It truly was wonderful.

Jessica Lawrence (Music, Collingwood, 2011-14) Head of Student Music at Experience Durham, Durham University

On the 1st of December, we held a second concert to celebrate the new theatre. This time it was a gig featuring student and alumni bands. The event demonstrated the versatility of the theatre space; it has been designed not only to support traditional forms of musical and theatrical performance, but also to provide an invaluable live music venue for our many talented student bands and DJs.

TWIST AND SHOUT Heartbreak Harry & the Charmers were asked to reform by our No.1 superfan, Principal Joe Elliott, and we had the privilege playing the concert on the 1st of December in Collingwood’s new theatre. After a cup of tea, Joe proceeded to show us the new facilities of the theatre and the JCR. We were lost for words at the new developments in Collingwood since we all left in 2013.

The new theatre space is state-of-the-art in terms of layout, design and equipment. It felt like we had been invited to perform at an MTV studio. The JCR itself has been transformed from a 1970s youth club to a Blade Runner-esque leisure complex with endless facilities. It’s hard to imagine how the current student experience compares to ours!

We had a wonderful time reuniting and learning our old set, which culminated in a truly special weekend, full of nostalgia, feeding off the warmth and friendliness of the College community (in stark contrast to the streets of London). The atmosphere at the gig itself was electric and we had so much fun on stage, especially when Joe joined us for a few songs in his studded rock & roll leathers!

Harry Rylott

(Law, Collingwood, 2009-12. JCR President 2012-13)

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THE GYM The Mark Hillery Gym has been a topic of much discussion since the beginning of term at Collingwood. The gym has doubled in size, and now boasts separate weights and cardio sections, as well as a brand new dance studio below.

The gym hosts a whole variety of exciting pieces of equipment: two water rowers, top of the range spinning bikes, brand new weight racks, static machines and a Speedflex machine, which is one of only 17 in the whole of the UK, evidently making this one of the most advanced gym facilities in Durham University.

The gym features MyZone technology so users can connect to see their heart rate and statistics whilst exercising, giving them the opportunity to see their improvement session on session, competing against themselves and other users if they so wish.

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UPDATES The dance studio (pictured below) has already been enjoyed by many people, hosting classes for students such as Zumba, Yoga and Circuits. This large space increases the number of students that can partake in classes, allowing them to get the most out of the development. The studio also houses eight new Concept2 rowing machines which can be linked to large monitors on which rowers can race one another in real time. Coloured LED lighting can be controlled by panels on the wall, and the external glass window has a function to switch it from clear to opaque, allowing us to create a private and peaceful space when needed.

The fantastic new developments really create so many more opportunities for students, as well as motivating students to stay fit and healthy for only ÂŁ40 for the 2018/19 year.

In the future, we hope that more classes can be put on for students, alongside more student-led classes in both the dance studio and the gym itself. Allowing sports clubs and societies to book out the spaces for dance rehearsals, rowing training and strength and conditioning classes will also ensure that the space is used as much as possible.

Not only does the new gym support Collingwood’s athletes as we look set to become college champions of sport for the 8th year running, but it also provides a valuable resource for all Collingwood students to explore new ways of staying active, which has enormous benefits to mental health and wellbeing.

Niamh Paterson-Moody and George Crow Gym Officers

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THE THEATRE On the main corridor opposite the Principal’s Office, where the Bayley Room (or before that the Library) once was, now sits Collingwood’s new state-ofthe-art studio theatre space, The Mark Hillery Arts Centre. The layout of the venue is completely flexible with staging, seating and curtains available in any orientation, allowing for an enormous variety of productions. The theatre can seat up to 200 people and hold even more for a standing gig. The two gala concerts gave us a taste of the flexibility of the space, showcasing different arrangements and making full use of the new technical components on offer. It truly is a unique venue within the University (and even within Durham City).

Admittedly, the tech team love playing with these new toys, but this is about far more than just owning the fanciest pieces of kit.

Much of the equipment is the same that is used at the highest levels of professional music and theatre, giving students the opportunity to gain experience that they would not get elsewhere.

This is invaluable for students hoping to pursue a career in this domain. The lighting grid itself can be lowered on motors, (see below) allowing students to rig equipment easily and safely compared to working on high scaffolding, and making it much easier for the tech team to train new members and encourage more students to get involved.

Having a dedicated Arts space encourages greater ambition and imagination, since students are no longer limited by the space in the dining hall, nor competing with the need to keep 550 livers-in well fed! Being able to work on set up during the day comes as a huge relief to the technical crew, and The Stag’s Head has already enjoyed a boost now that the technicians are (sometimes) able to make it to the bar before last orders!

The facilities in the theatre have already lifted the quality and professionalism of Collingwood’s performances, both theatre and music. Over the coming years, we look forward to seeing the Arts scene in Collingwood thrive and flourish.

The technical aspects of the new venue are simply staggering.

Featuring the latest technology in lighting, sound and video, there’s almost too much to mention. The theatre boasts 28 moving lights, 24 radio microphones, a 96-channel sound desk and an LED video wall, to name but a few elements.

Jonny Browning Sabbatical Technical Assistant

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UPDATES

THE BAR To the untrained eye, The Stag’s Head may appear to be the same rustic pub-bar that it has always been, but the real change has come in the details.

Prior to the summer, the bar saw two new additions to its space: a conservatory and outdoor terracing (pictured bottom left and right). The conservatory was an instant hit with the students, adding much needed extra seating in a slick and up-to-date area, which contrasts and complements the existing bar. As you leave the conservatory, you step onto the terrace, a cascading wooden decking area overlooking the rubber crumb sports pitch. The terraced area gives the students a comfortable outside space, which is well used, rain or shine.

This summer saw some less obvious changes, but nonetheless significant ones. The tables, chairs and carpets are all brand new—you can even feel the bounce of the carpet as you enter.

The furnishings were chosen to match The Stag’s Head’s traditional feel, while adding a touch of class in their quality.

We were also lucky enough to have a darts area created (where one set of toilets used to be), which has become a feature in and of itself, and is in constant use by Collingwood’s best and worst dart players alike. Some of the more concealed changes, however, are in the ceiling. Cast your eye up, and you’ll see new speakers, a brand new projector and a new TV. All of these features can be controlled via touch panels located in two different areas of the bar, each of which can be independently controlled. This allows the bar staff and our patrons to easily transform sections of the bar to suit their needs, whether that is watching the big game, blasting out some sing-along tunes or hosting JCR meetings.

A favourite feature of the staff can also be found in the ceiling. Adjacent to the bar itself are several panels which have been designed to absorb background noise,

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allowing the bar staff to hear customers more clearly. It is details like this that have made the bar an incredible space for all involved, whether it’s the bar staff, the students or alumni. The changes that have been made will ensure The Stag’s Head remains the social epicentre of Collingwood for years to come.

Louis Mayo Bar Steward

THE JUNIOR COMMON ROOM The students, the JCR executive committee, former Presidents, James and Sati, and I have all been heavily involved in the design of the new College spaces, working alongside College staff and the architects to choose furniture, carpet colours and densities, gym equipment and even the bathroom taps and soap dispensers!

To provide a social hub downstairs, the Junior Common Room has almost doubled in size, and features a whole range of new accessories, including two new pool tables, two new table tennis tables and a customised football table with the team colours matching Collingwood’s home and away kits! Whilst it is named the Junior Common Room, this space is shared by all members of the Collingwood community.

Of course, it is not just about having the very best space and equipment (although we are incredibly proud and grateful for this). The new spaces are important because of the environment that this space creates for all of our community.

Since opening, the new JCR has been a popular spot for livers-in and livers-out alike, providing a space to relax, socialise, meet for socials, or watch big sports matches. Of course this has given the new Wood’n’Spoon the best possible start in its new position right in the JCR.

Two 55-inch TV screens (with Sky and Freeview) can be used to show videos and movies wirelessly from phones or laptops, or even used to livestream from the Collingwood rubber crumb pitch as done during in CCAFC’s recent 24-hours of football fundraiser.

The home cinema section of the JCR boasts a 65-inch TV which has all of the above features along with a PlayStation 4 with virtual reality headset, a Blu-ray player, and 5.1 surround sound.

The lighting in JCR is beyond anything else I’ve seen at the University; consisting of individually coloured LED lights that can be controlled by touchscreens on the wall, the lighting can create a range of colourful effects to reflect the mood of the room at any one time. When it comes to events and formals, the space can be completely transformed. The furniture and games tables can be moved to one end, and the room split by a partition wall. This leaves a 200 person dancefloor ready for anything; we’ve already hosted bands, DJs, bingo and drinks receptions in this space.

Kris Gwynne JCR President

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NEW BUILD THE NEW BUILD REQUIRED: OVER

600 WORKERS ON THE SITE

THE COFFEE SHOP

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Now in a brand new location, The Wood‘n’Spoon coffee shop has proved to be a centrepiece of the new JCR. Boasting new branding and state-of-the-art new equipment, including a top of the range coffee machine, it serves a fantastic range of toasties, coffees, confectionary and drinks to the people of Collingwood. To meet demand, the coffee shop now also stocks gluten free bread, and a range of non-dairy milks, including oat and soya. With improved storage space, and a dishwasher, the employees are also enjoying the new environment. Sarah said: “Everyone always looks happy to see the new space and I love working there; I simply can’t wait to continue making toasties there next year. I love the new Wood‘n’Spoon!”

MILES OF CABLES

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LITRES OF PAINT

205

PEOPLE RETIRED DURING THE PROJECT!

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Harry Hughes

TONNES OF STEEL

JCR Services Manager

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TONNES OF CONCRETE

Collingwood College South Road Durham DH1 3LT 0191 334 5000 Principal: Professor Joe Elliott Email: joe.elliott@durham.ac.uk Vice Principal: Emma Brownlow Email: emma.k.brownlow@durham.ac.uk Assistant Principal: Grant Slater Email: grant.slater@durham.ac.uk

@Cwood_alumni Principal: Professor Joe Elliott Email: joe.elliott@durham.ac.uk CollingwoodCollege

Vice Principal: Emma Brownlow Collingwood College, subgroup of Durham University Email: emma.k.brownlow@durham.ac.uk

Bursar: Karen Blundell Email: karen.blundell@durham.ac.uk JCR President: collingwood.president@durham.ac.uk Alumni and Development Officer: collingwood.alumni@durham.ac.uk CollingwoodCollegeDU @CollingwoodCollege www.durham.ac.uk/collingwood

www.durham.ac.uk/collingwood/alumni

Assistant Principal: Grant Slater Email:collingwood.alumni@durham.ac.uk grant.slater@durham.ac.uk

Durham University and Durham University logo are registered Trade Marks of the University of Durham. Unless otherwise stated, all material in this publication is copyright of the University of Durham. The University makes every effort to ensure that the information contained here is accurate. This publication is intended as a general guide to University of Durham’s facilities and form no part of any contract between you and the University. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the permission of the University. Please note that the University’s website is the most up to date source of information and we strongly recommend that you always visit the website before making any commitments.

ALPH/01/19/811

Alumni andCollege Development Officer: Jessica Hughes Collingwood South Road Email: collingwood.alumni@durham.ac.uk Durham 0191 334 5172 DH1 3LT 0191CollingwoodCollegeDU 334 5000